Cover device and imaging device

Abstract

This cover device (100, 200, 300) comprises: a base (10) disposed on the object side of an imaging element and having an opening (10a) surrounding at least a portion of the imaging element when viewed from the optical axis direction; a resin shield (20) that can move forward and rearward in a crossing direction crossing the optical axis direction and shield the opening (10a); a drive shaft (30) rotatably provided in the base (10); and a first link (40) that has a first base connection portion (40C) rotatably connected to the base (10) and a first fitting hole (40Q1) rotatably connected to the resin shield (20), and swings according to the rotation of the drive shaft.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cover device and an imaging device. This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-120983 filed on July 21, 2021, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an imaging device is known in which a shutter capable of controlling light shielding and exposure is attached to a main body having an imaging element (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0004] One aspect of the present invention is a cover device, which includes a base disposed on the subject side of an imaging element and having an opening that surrounds at least a part of the imaging element when viewed in the optical axis direction, a resin shielding body that can advance and retreat in an intersecting direction intersecting the optical axis direction and can shield the opening, a drive shaft rotatably provided on the base, a first base connecting portion rotatably connected to the base, a first fitting hole rotatably connected to the resin shielding body, and a first link that swings in response to the rotation of the drive shaft.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0005]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0006] (First Embodiment) Hereinafter, the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a cover device 100 according to the first embodiment in an open state where the opening 10a is open. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the cover device 100 according to the first embodiment in a closed state where the opening 10a is shielded. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the cover device 100 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the resin shield 20, the first link 40, and the second link 50 viewed from the back. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a cross section of the connecting portion between the resin shield 20 and the first link 40 and the second link 50. FIG. 6 is an explanatory view of the cover device 100 viewed from the front. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line A in FIG. 2. FIG. 8 is a view taken in the direction of arrow B in FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a view showing the positional relationship between the cover device 100 and the anti-vibration mechanism unit VR. FIG. 10 is a view showing the cover device as viewed from the plane. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the optical axis direction of the lens of the main body provided with the cover device 100 is defined as the first direction Z, the horizontal direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction when the optical axis direction is horizontal is defined as the second direction X, and the vertical direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction when the optical axis direction is horizontal is defined as the third direction Y. In the main body, the surface opposite to the surface facing the user on the side where the imaging element is arranged, which is the side where the cover device 100 is arranged, may be referred to as the front surface.

[0007] (Cover device) The cover device 100 according to the first embodiment is provided in an imaging device including a main body having an imaging element and a lens. The imaging device is a so-called digital camera. The cover device 100 is disposed on the subject side of the imaging element. That is, the cover device 100 is provided between the imaging element and the lens in the imaging device with the lens attached to the main body. Thereby, in a state where the lens is attached to the main body, the imaging element can be covered to shield light. Therefore, pixel defects such as black dots of the imaging element can be corrected. Further, the cover device 100 is disposed on the subject side of the imaging element in a state where the lens is removed from the main body. Thereby, in a state where the lens is removed from the main body, the imaging element can be covered so as not to be exposed. Therefore, the imaging element can be protected from physical actions such as intrusion of dust and contact with objects.

[0008] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the cover device 100 includes a base 10 having an opening 10a that surrounds at least a part of an imaging element (not shown) when viewed from the front along the optical axis direction (first direction Z), a resin shield 20 that can move forward and backward in an intersection direction (for example, the third direction Y) intersecting the optical axis direction and can shield the opening 10a, a drive shaft 30 rotatably provided on the base 10, a first base connection portion 40C rotatably connected to the base 10, and a first fitting hole 40Q1 rotatably connected to the resin shield 20, and includes a first link 40 that swings in response to the rotation of the drive shaft 30. In this way, since the cover device 100 can open and close the opening 10a with the resin shield 20, it can shield light in the closed state and can secure the rigidity for protecting the imaging element from physical actions.

[0009] (Lens) The lens defines the optical axis. The lens is formed so that it can be detachably attached to the main body.

[0010] (Main body) The main body has an outer shape along a cube appropriately surrounded by a back surface, a front surface, an upper surface (plane), a bottom surface, a left side surface, and a right side surface. The main body has an imaging element and a cover device 100 disposed on the subject side of the imaging element. The main body appropriately has a lens mount for supporting the lens. The main body appropriately includes a shutter button, a viewfinder, etc. Note that the main body may also function as a so-called electronic shutter that electronically controls the exposure amount of the imaging element. Note that the main body does not necessarily have a physical shutter such as a focal plane shutter for controlling the exposure amount of the imaging element.

[0011] The imaging element is an image sensor such as a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) or a complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS).

[0012] (Base) Base 10 has an opening 10a that surrounds at least a part of the imaging element when viewed from the front along the optical axis direction. Base 10 includes a base body 11 and a base frame 12 that overlaps the base body 11. Between the base body 11 and the base frame 12, a first link 40, a resin shield 20, etc., which will be described later, are movably arranged. The base body 11 and the base frame 12 each have an opening. Each opening forms the opening 10a of the base 10. The base body 11 and the base frame 12 are engaged with each other at the peripheral edge and integrated.

[0013] (Drive shaft) The drive shaft 30 is rotatably provided on the base 10. The drive shaft 30 is rotationally driven as appropriate by an actuator such as an electric motor. The rotation angle, rotation speed, etc. of the drive shaft 30 are controlled by a control device (not shown) that controls the actuator.

[0014] (Lever) The drive shaft 30 may have a lever 60 that swings in response to the rotation of the drive shaft 30 and extends in a direction intersecting the drive shaft 30. And the first link 40 may have a lever connection portion 40L that is rotatably connected to the lever 60. Thereby, as the drive shaft 30 rotates, the lever 60 swings, and the first link 40 connected to the lever 60 swings around the first base connection portion 40C connected to the base 10. And according to the rotation angle of the drive shaft 30, the swing angle of the first link 40 can be controlled. Also, by changing the shape of the lever 60, the swing speed corresponding to the swing angle of the resin shield 20 connected to the first link 40 can be freely set.

[0015] Here, as shown in FIG. 6, the lever 60 may have a guide groove 61 in which the lever connecting portion 40L is locked. The lever connecting portion 40L may be a pin that protrudes from the first link 40 and is slidably engaged with the guide groove 61. And the guide groove 61 may have an intersection portion 61X extending in a direction intersecting the locus T of the lever connecting portion 40L. Thereby, even if an external force acts on the resin shield 20 in the direction indicated by the hatched arrow due to an impact or the like, the lever connecting portion 40L is locked in the guide groove 61 at the intersection portion 61X, restricting the swing of the first link 40. Therefore, when the user uses the imaging device, that is, in a state where the lens is attached to the main body, the resin shield 20 is prevented from unexpectedly covering the opening 10a, and the open state in which the opening 10a is open can be surely maintained.

[0016] Also, the guide groove 61 may have a curved portion 61W. The curved portion 61W may be continuous with the intersection portion 61X. Thereby, while moving the lever connecting portion 40L along the locus T, its movement can be restricted to follow the shape of the curved portion 61W. Therefore, when removing the lens from the main body, in order to protect the imaging element of the main body, the resin shield 20 can be smoothly swung so as to cover the opening 10a.

[0017] (First Link) The first link 40 has a first base connecting portion 40C rotatably connected to the base 10 and a first fitting hole 40Q1 rotatably connected to the resin shield 20. And the first link 40 swings in response to the rotation of the drive shaft 30. The first base connecting portion 40C is rotatably connected to a first base shaft 10P provided on the base 10.

[0018] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the first fitting hole 40Q1 is locked to the first pin 20P1 formed in the resin shield 20. In this way, since the first pin 20P1 is formed in the resin shield 20, it can be integrally formed by mold molding. Also, the strength and rigidity of the connecting portion between the first link 40 and the resin shield 20 can be increased, and by passing the first pin 20P1 formed in the resin shield 20 through the first fitting hole 40Q1 formed in the first link 40 and fitting them, they can be easily assembled. Note that the first pin 20P1 formed in the resin shield 20 and the first fitting hole 40Q1 formed in the first link 40 may be engaged by a snap fit utilizing the elasticity of the material.

[0019] (Resin shield) The resin shield 20 is a member that can move forward and backward in the intersecting direction intersecting the optical axis direction and can shield the opening 10a. The resin shield 20 is, for example, a plate-like body made of polycarbonate resin formed by mold molding. The resin shield 20 preferably has a light-shielding property capable of completely blocking light.

[0020] The resin shield 20 is connected to the first fitting hole 40Q1 of the first link 40. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the resin shield 20 forms a substantially cylindrical first pin 20P1 that protrudes along the optical axis direction. The first pin 20P1 is integrally formed by mold molding. The first pin 20P1 may be locked by friction with the first fitting hole 40Q1. Thereby, the first link 40 and the resin shield 20 can be easily assembled only by passing the first pin 20P1 through the first fitting hole 40Q1. And, in the assembled state, the first link 40 and the resin shield 20 are restricted in the direction of movement within the space formed between the base body 11 and the base frame 12 by the base body 11 and the base frame 12, so that the state where the first pin 20P1 is disengaged from the first fitting hole 40Q1 and engaged is not released. Note that the first pin 20P1 may appropriately have an outer peripheral groove on which the inner peripheral edge of the first fitting hole 40Q1 is locked. The tip of the first pin 20P1 is press-fitted into the first fitting hole 40Q1 formed in the first link 40, and is reduced in diameter due to elastic deformation. After passing through the first fitting hole 40Q1, it is restored by elastic deformation and expands in diameter. Then, the first pin 20P1 fits into and is locked to the first fitting hole 40Q1 formed in the first link 40. In this way, since the resin shield 20 has the first pin 20P1 integrally formed by mold molding, the strength and rigidity of the connecting portion between the first link 40 and the resin shield 20 can be increased, and the first pin 20P1 formed in the resin shield 20 is passed through and fitted into the first fitting hole 40Q1 formed in the first link 40, so that it can be easily assembled.

[0021] Also, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, the resin shield 20 may have a first resin shield plate 21 and a second resin shield plate 22 that overlaps at least a part of the first resin shield plate 21 in the optical axis direction. Thereby, the opening 10a can be covered with the resin shield 20 divided into a plurality. For this reason, since the self-weights of the divided first resin shield plate 21 and the second resin shield plate 22 can be reduced, the moment and shear force acting on the connecting portion between the first link 40 and the base 10 that support them cantilever and the first link 40 can be reduced, the rigidity can be reduced, and the torque required to rotate the drive shaft 30 can be reduced. Therefore, the cover device 100 can be made lightweight, and the space occupied by the cover device 100 in the imaging device can be reduced.

[0022] Further, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, the resin shield 20 may have a third resin shield plate 23 in addition to the first resin shield plate 21 and the second resin shield plate 22. Thereby, the opening 10a can be covered with the resin shield 20 divided into at least three parts. For this reason, the respective self-weights of the divided first resin shield plate 21 to the third resin shield plate 23 can be further reduced, so that the moment and shear force acting on the connecting portion between the first link 40 that supports them cantilevered and the base 10 and the first link 40 can be reduced, the rigidity can be reduced, and the torque required to rotate the drive shaft 30 can be reduced. Therefore, the cover device 100 can be made lightweight, and the space occupied by the cover device 100 in the imaging device can be reduced.

[0023] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 6, the resin shield 20 has a first resin shield plate 21, a second resin shield plate 22, and a third resin shield plate 23.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 6, in the open state where the opening 10a is open, the first resin shield plate 21 overlaps with the second resin shield plate 22 and the third resin shield plate 23 in the optical axis direction and is located at the end portion of the base 10 in the third direction Y deviated from the opening 10a. The first pin 20P1 formed on the first resin shield plate 21 is fitted in a rotatable state in the first fitting hole 40Q1 of the first link 40. The second pin 20R1 formed on the first resin shield plate 21 is fitted in a rotatable state in the second fitting hole 50Q1 of the second link 50. The first pin 20P1 is fitted in the first fitting hole 40Q1 disposed at the end portion on the resin shield 20 side of the first link 40, which is relatively far from the first base connecting portion 40C. The second pin 20R1 is fitted in the second fitting hole 50Q1 disposed at the end portion on the resin shield 20 side of the second link 50, which is relatively far from the second base connecting portion 50C. Thereby, a parallel link mechanism is formed by the first resin shield plate 21, the first link 40, the second link 50, and the base 10. Therefore, the first resin shield plate 21 moves forward and backward freely in the crossing direction (third direction Y) crossing the optical axis direction by the swinging of the first link 40 and the second link 50 linked to the rotation of the drive shaft 30. As a result, the first resin shield plate 21 moves the longest distance along the third direction Y compared with the second resin shield plate 22 and the third resin shield plate 23. Then, as shown in FIG. 2, in the closed state where the opening 10a is closed, the first resin shield plate 21 moves to a position covering the end of the opening 10a. When the distance from the first base connection portion 40C to the first fitting hole 40Q1 is the same as the distance from the second base connection portion 50C to the second fitting hole 50Q1, the first resin shield plate 21 translates. In the closed state where the opening 10a is closed, the first resin shield plate 21 is in a state where the ends of the first resin shield plate 21 and the adjacent second resin shield plate 22 overlap in the optical axis direction.

[0025] Similar to the first resin shield plate 21, in the open state where the opening 10a is open, the second resin shield plate 22 overlaps with the first resin shield plate 21 and the third resin shield plate 23 in the optical axis direction and is located at the end of the base 10 in the third direction Y outside the opening 10a. The third pin 20P2 formed on the second resin shield plate 22 is rotatably fitted into the third fitting hole 40Q2 of the first link 40. The fourth pin 20R2 formed on the second resin shield plate 22 is rotatably fitted into the fourth fitting hole 50Q2 of the second link 50. The third pin 20P2 is fitted into the third fitting hole 40Q2 disposed between the first base connection portion 40C and the end on the resin shield 20 side in the first link 40. The fourth pin 20R2 is fitted into the fourth fitting hole 50Q2 disposed between the second base connection portion 50C and the end on the resin shield 20 side in the second link 50. As a result, a parallel link mechanism is formed by the second resin shield plate 22, the first link 40, the second link 50, and the base 10. Therefore, the second resin shield plate 22 moves forward and backward freely in the crossing direction (the third direction Y) crossing the optical axis direction by the swinging of the first link 40 and the second link 50 interlocked with the rotation of the drive shaft 30. As a result, the second resin shield plate 22 moves a shorter distance than the first resin shield plate 21 along the third direction Y and a longer distance than the third resin shield plate 23. Then, as shown in FIG. 2, in the closed state where the opening 10a is closed, the second resin shielding plate 22 moves to a position covering the middle part of the opening 10a. When the distance from the first base connecting portion 40C to the third fitting hole 40Q2 is the same as the distance from the second base connecting portion 50C to the fourth fitting hole 50Q2, the second resin shielding plate 22 translates. In the closed state where the opening 10a is closed, the second resin shielding plate 22 is in a state where the ends thereof overlap with the adjacent first resin shielding plate 21 and third resin shielding plate 23 in the optical axis direction.

[0026] Similar to the first resin shielding plate 21 and the second resin shielding plate 22, in the open state where the opening 10a is open, the third resin shielding plate 23 overlaps with the first resin shielding plate 21 and the second resin shielding plate 22 in the optical axis direction and is located at the end of the base 10 in the third direction Y deviated from the opening 10a. The fifth pin 20P3 formed on the third resin shielding plate 23 is fitted rotatably into the fifth fitting hole 40Q3 of the first link 40. The sixth pin 20R3 formed on the third resin shielding plate 23 is fitted rotatably into the sixth fitting hole 50Q3 of the second link 50. The fifth pin 20P3 is fitted into the fifth fitting hole 40Q3 disposed at a position relatively close to the first base connecting portion 40C in the first link 40. The sixth pin 20R3 is fitted into the sixth fitting hole 50Q3 disposed at a position relatively close to the second base connecting portion 50C in the second link 50. Thereby, a parallel link mechanism is formed by the third resin shielding plate 23, the first link 40, the second link 50, and the base 10. Therefore, the third resin shielding plate 23 moves forward and backward freely in the crossing direction (the third direction Y) intersecting the optical axis direction by the swinging of the first link 40 and the second link 50 interlocked with the rotation of the drive shaft 30. Thereby, the third resin shielding plate 23 moves along the third direction Y by a shorter distance compared to the first resin shielding plate 21 and the second resin shielding plate 22. Then, as shown in FIG. 2, in the closed state where the opening 10a is closed, the third resin shielding plate 23 moves to a position covering the end of the opening 10a. When the distance from the first base connection portion 40C to the fifth fitting hole 40Q3 is the same as the distance from the second base connection portion 50C to the sixth fitting hole 50Q3, the third resin shielding plate 23 translates. In the closed state where the opening 10a is closed, the third resin shielding plate 23 and the adjacent second resin shielding plate 22 are in a state where their ends overlap in the optical axis direction.

[0027] Here, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the first resin shielding plate 21 protrudes toward the second resin shielding plate 22 and has a first rib 21R capable of shielding light from the gap between the first resin shielding plate 21 and the second resin shielding plate 22. The first rib 21R is provided at the end of the first resin shielding plate 21 on the side of the second resin shielding plate 22 in the third direction Y. The first rib 21R is arranged at a position overlapping the second resin shielding plate 22 in the optical axis direction. The first rib 21R may be integrally formed by molding the first resin shielding plate 21. The second resin shielding plate 22 protrudes toward the first resin shielding plate 21 and has a second rib 22R capable of blocking light in the gap between the first resin shielding plate 21 and the second resin shielding plate 22. The second rib 22R is provided at the end of the second resin shielding plate 22 on the side of the first resin shielding plate 21 in the third direction Y. The second rib 22R is arranged at a position overlapping the first resin shielding plate 21 in the optical axis direction. The second rib 22R may be integrally formed by molding the second resin shielding plate 22. Here, the first rib 21R and the second rib 22R overlap when viewed in the intersecting direction (the third direction Y) that intersects the optical axis direction (the first direction Z). As a result, even if the resin shielding body 20 includes the divided first resin shielding plate 21 and the second resin shielding plate 22, it is possible to block the light that can leak from the gap provided in the overlapping portion between them. Therefore, in a state where the opening 10a is covered with the resin shielding body 20, light can be prevented from leaking in the optical axis direction from the subject toward the imaging element. Further, the first rib 21R and the second rib 22R are integrally formed with the first resin shielding plate 21 and the second resin shielding plate 22, respectively, and since they improve the second moment of inertia, the bending rigidity can be effectively increased without increasing the cross-sectional area. Therefore, the imaging element can be protected from external forces.

[0028] (Second Link) The cover device 100 may include a second link 50. The second link 50 swings in response to the swing of the first link 40.

[0029] The second link 50 has a second base connection portion 50C rotatably connected to the base 10 and a second fitting hole 50Q1 rotatably connected to the resin shielding body 20. The second base connection portion 50C is rotatably connected to a second base shaft 10R provided on the base 10. Thereby, the resin shielding body 20 can be supported by the base 10 via the first link 40 and the second link 50. Therefore, a four-bar parallel link can be configured with the first fitting hole 40Q1 of the first link 40 and the second fitting hole 50Q1 of the second link 50 as joints. Therefore, the resin shielding body 20 can be rigidly supported with respect to the base 10 and can be translated along the opening 10a.

[0030] The second fitting hole 50Q1 is locked to the second pin 20R1 formed on the resin shield 20. In this way, since the second pin 20R1 is formed on the resin shield 20, it can be integrally formed by molding. Further, the strength and rigidity of the connecting portion between the second link 50 and the resin shield 20 can be increased, and the second pin 20R1 formed on the resin shield 20 can be easily assembled by passing it through the second fitting hole 50Q1 formed in the second link 50 and fitting it. Note that the second pin 20R1 and the second fitting hole 50Q1 formed in the second link 50 may be engaged by a snap fit using the elasticity of the material.

[0031] By the way, as shown in FIG. 9, the imaging device may include a cover device 100 and an anti-shake mechanism unit VR having an anti-shake correction function. The imaging device may include the cover device 100 and the anti-shake mechanism unit VR having an anti-shake correction function on the main body. The anti-shake mechanism unit VR may be configured to move the imaging element in response to camera shake.

[0032] Here, as shown in FIG. 10, the base 10 has a cover drive unit 13 that drives the drive shaft 30. The cover drive unit 13 includes, for example, an actuator such as an electric motor and a power transmission device such as a gear that transmits the torque of the actuator to the drive shaft 30. Note that, unlike the drive unit of a general focal plane shutter, the cover drive unit 13 does not need to drive the shielding unit at high speed for controlling the exposure amount, so the power transmission device can be made compact. The cover drive unit 13 is disposed so as to overlap the anti-shake mechanism unit VR in the optical axis direction. The anti-shake mechanism unit VR includes, for example, an actuator and a power transmission device. In this way, since the cover drive unit 13 of the cover device 100 can reduce the dimension in the optical axis direction compared with the drive unit of a general focal plane shutter, even if the imaging device has the anti-shake mechanism unit VR, the cover drive unit 13 and the anti-shake mechanism unit VR can be disposed so as to overlap each other in the optical axis direction without being separated left and right. Therefore, the imaging device can be made compact.

[0033] (Operation) Next, the operation of the cover device 100 according to the first embodiment will be described. (1) When the user uses the imaging device with a lens attached to the main body for imaging purposes, usually, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, the opening 10a of the cover device 100 is in an open state not covered by the resin shield 20. That is, the image (light) from the subject passes through the lens, passes through the opening 10a of the cover device 100, and reaches the imaging element. At this time, since the lever connecting portion 40L is locked to the intersection portion 61X of the guide groove 61, the resin shield 20 is prevented from swinging unexpectedly.

[0034] (2) Then, when the user removes the lens, or when correcting pixel defects, as a preparation for removing the lens, or as a preparation for correcting pixel defects, based on the user's operation on the operation switch or the like, the cover device 100 is driven to cover the opening 10a with the resin shield 20 as shown by the hatched arrow in FIG. 6. Specifically, based on the user's operation on the operation switch or the like, the actuator provided in the cover driving portion 13 operates. The actuator rotates the drive shaft 30 counterclockwise. As the drive shaft 30 rotates, the lever 60 swings counterclockwise in FIG. 6. Then, the lever connecting portion 40L locked to the guide groove 61 of the lever 60 moves along the locus T while being restricted from moving in the guide groove 61. Here, since the first link 40 provided with the lever connecting portion 40L is supported by the base 10 so as to swing around the first base connecting portion 40C, as the lever connecting portion 40L moves, the first link 40 swings clockwise around the first base connecting portion 40C. In conjunction with the swing of the first link 40, the resin shield 20 moves in the intersecting direction intersecting the optical axis direction so as to cover the opening 10a.

[0035] (3) Then, as shown in FIG. 2, the resin shield 20 moves to a position covering the opening 10a and becomes a closed state. Thereby, the light trying to pass through the opening 10a can be blocked, and the imaging element can be protected from physical effects.

[0036] (4) Also, when the user uses the imaging device, such as after attaching a lens or after correcting pixel defects, the resin shield 20 is operated in the reverse of the above-described operation to change the resin shield 20 from the closed state to the open state.

[0037] (Second Embodiment) Hereinafter, the cover device 200 according to the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the description of matters common to the first embodiment may be omitted. Also, parts having the same functions as those in the first embodiment may be given the same reference numerals. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the cover device 200 according to the second embodiment in the open state as viewed from the front. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the cover device 200 according to the second embodiment in the closed state as viewed from the front. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the cover device 200 according to the second embodiment in the open state with the base frame 12 removed as viewed from the front.

[0038] As shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, unlike the cover device 100 according to the first embodiment, the cover device 200 according to the second embodiment has a resin shield 20 composed of two sheets, a first resin shield plate 21 and a second resin shield plate 22.

[0039] The cover device 200 is disposed on the subject side of the imaging element. The cover device 200 includes a base 10 having an opening 10a that surrounds at least a part of the imaging element as viewed in the optical axis direction, a resin shield 20 that can move forward and backward in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction and can shield the opening 10a, a drive shaft 30 (not shown) rotatably provided on the base 10, a first base connecting portion 40C rotatably connected to the base 10, a first fitting hole 40Q1 rotatably connected to the resin shield 20, and a lever connecting portion 40L locked to a lever 60 (not shown) that swings in accordance with the rotation of the drive shaft 30, and includes a first link 40 that swings in accordance with the rotation of the drive shaft 30. In this way, since the cover device 200 can open and close the opening 10a with the resin shield 20, it can block light in the closed state and ensure the rigidity for protecting the imaging element from physical actions.

[0040] Specifically, the first link 40 has a first base connection portion 40C rotatably connected to the base 10, a first fitting hole 40Q1 rotatably connected to the first resin shielding plate 21, a third fitting hole 40Q2 rotatably connected to the second resin shielding plate 22, and a lever connection portion 40L locked to a lever 60 that swings in response to the rotation of the drive shaft 30. The first base connection portion 40C formed at one end of the first link 40 of the cover device 200 is rotatably connected to the first base shaft 10P. The first fitting hole 40Q1 formed in the first link 40 of the cover device 200 is locked to the first pin 20P1 formed in the first resin shielding plate 21. The third fitting hole 40Q2 formed in the first link 40 of the cover device 200 is locked to the third pin 20P2 formed in the second resin shielding plate 22. The lever connection portion 40L formed in the first link 40 of the cover device 200 is locked to a lever 60 (not shown) that swings in response to the rotation of the drive shaft 30, similar to the first embodiment. Thus, when the drive shaft 30 rotates and the lever 60 locked to the lever connection portion 40L swings, the first link 40 swings about the first base connection portion 40C. Then, as the first link 40 swings, the first resin shielding plate 21 and the second resin shielding plate 22 move. Therefore, by rotationally driving the drive shaft 30, the resin shielding body 20 can be advanced and retracted between an open state (see FIGS. 11 and 13) and a closed state (see FIG. 12).

[0041] The second link 50 has a second base connection portion 50C rotatably connected to the base 10 and a second fitting hole 50Q1 rotatably connected to the resin shielding body 20. The second base connection portion 50C formed at one end of the second link 50 of the cover device 200 is rotatably connected to the second base shaft 10R formed in the base 10. The second fitting hole 50Q1 formed in the second link 50 of the cover device 200 is rotatably locked to the second pin 20R1 formed in the first resin shielding plate 21. The fourth fitting hole 50Q2 formed in the second link 50 of the cover device 200 is rotatably locked to the fourth pin 20R2 formed in the second resin shielding plate 22. Accordingly, the second link 50 swings in response to the swing of the first link 40 that swings as the drive shaft 30 rotates. Therefore, by rotationally driving the drive shaft 30, the first link 40 and the second link 50 act as parallel links, so that the resin shielding body 20 can be translated and moved forward and backward between an open state and a closed state.

[0042] (Third Embodiment) Hereinafter, the cover device 300 according to the third embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the description of matters common to the first embodiment or the second embodiment may be omitted. In addition, parts having the same functions as those in the first embodiment or the second embodiment may be denoted by common reference numerals. FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the cover device 300 according to the third embodiment in an open state with the base frame 12 removed, as viewed from the front. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the cover device 300 according to the third embodiment in a closed state with the base frame 12 removed, as viewed from the front.

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, unlike the cover device 100 according to the first embodiment and the cover device 200 according to the second embodiment, the resin shielding body 20 of the cover device 300 according to the third embodiment is composed of a single first resin shielding plate 21. Further, the cover device 300 according to the third embodiment does not have the second link 50.

[0044] The cover device 300 is disposed on the subject side of the imaging element. The cover device 300 includes a base 10 having an opening 10a that surrounds at least a part of the imaging element as viewed in the optical axis direction, a resin shield 20 that can move forward and backward in a crossing direction intersecting the optical axis direction and can shield the opening 10a, a drive shaft 30 rotatably provided on the base 10, a first base connection portion 40C rotatably connected to the base 10, and a first fitting hole 40Q1 rotatably connected to the resin shield 20. The cover device 300 further includes a first link 40 that swings in accordance with the rotation of the drive shaft 30. As described above, since the cover device 300 can open and close the opening 10a with the resin shield 20, it can block light in the closed state and ensure rigidity for protecting the imaging element from physical effects.

[0045] Specifically, the first link 40 has a first base connection portion 40C rotatably connected to the base 10 and a first fitting hole 40Q1 rotatably connected to the first resin shield plate 21. One end of the first base connection portion 40C formed at one end of the first link 40 of the cover device 300 is rotatably connected to a first base shaft 10P formed on the base 10. The first fitting hole 40Q1 formed in the first link 40 of the cover device 300 is locked to a first pin 20P1 formed on the first resin shield plate 21. The cover device 300 includes a lever 60 that rotates together with the drive shaft 30. One end of the lever 60 is fixed to the drive shaft 30, and the other end is locked to a long hole 45 formed in the first link 40. Thereby, as the drive shaft 30 rotates, the lever 60 swings, and the first link 40 swings. Then, as the first link 40 swings, the first resin shield plate 21 moves. Therefore, by rotationally driving the drive shaft 30, the resin shield 20 can be moved forward and backward between an open state (see FIG. 14) and a closed state (see FIG. 15).

[0046] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. Here, a supplementary explanation will be given regarding the correspondence relationship between the present invention and the above embodiments.

[0047] (1) In the above-described embodiment, the cover devices 100, 200, and 300 are arranged on the subject side of the imaging device, and include a base 10 having an opening 10a that surrounds at least a part of the imaging device when viewed from the optical axis direction, a resin shield 20 that can move forward and backward in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction and can shield the opening 10a, a drive shaft 30 rotatably provided on the base 10, a first base connecting portion 40C rotatably connected to the base 10, and a first fitting hole 40Q1 rotatably connected to the resin shield 20, and a first link 40 that swings in accordance with the rotation of the drive shaft 30.

[0048] In the cover devices 100, 200, and 300 having such a configuration, since the resin shield 20 can open and close the opening 10a, it can block light in the closed state and ensure the rigidity for protecting the imaging device from physical actions.

[0049] (2) Further, in the above-described embodiment, the first fitting hole 40Q1 is locked to a first pin 20P1 formed on the resin shield 20.

[0050] (3) Further, in the above-described embodiment, a second link 50 having a second base connecting portion 50C rotatably connected to the base 10 and a second fitting hole 50Q1 rotatably connected to the resin shield 20 is provided.

[0051] (4) Further, in the above-described embodiment, the second fitting hole 50Q1 is locked to a second pin 20R1 formed on the resin shield 20.

[0052] (5) Further, in the above-described embodiment, the drive shaft 30 has a lever 60 that swings in accordance with the rotation of the drive shaft 30 and extends in a direction intersecting the drive shaft 30, and the first link 40 has a lever connecting portion 40L rotatably connected to the lever 60.

[0053] (6) Further, in the above-described embodiment, the lever 60 has a guide groove 61 to which the lever connecting portion 40L is locked, and the guide groove 61 has an intersection portion 61X extending in a direction intersecting the locus T of the lever connecting portion 40L.

[0054] (7) Further, in the above embodiment, the resin shield 20 includes a first resin shield plate 21 and a second resin shield plate 22 that overlaps at least a part of the first resin shield plate 21 in the optical axis direction. The first resin shield plate 21 protrudes toward the second resin shield plate 22 and has a first rib 21R capable of shielding light from the gap between the first resin shield plate 21 and the second resin shield plate 22. The second resin shield plate 22 protrudes toward the first resin shield plate 21 and has a second rib 22R capable of shielding the gap. The first rib 21R and the second rib 22R overlap in the crossing direction.

[0055] (8) Further, in the above embodiment, the imaging device includes cover devices 100, 200, 300 and an anti-vibration mechanism unit VR having an anti-shake function.

[0056] (9) Further, in the above embodiment, the base 10 of the imaging device has a cover drive unit 13 that drives the drive shaft 30, and the cover drive unit 13 is disposed to overlap the anti-vibration mechanism unit VR in the optical axis direction.

[0057] As described above, one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to the above, and various design changes and the like can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0058] 10... Base 10a... Opening 10P... First Base Axis 10R... Second Base Axis 11... Base Body 12... Base Frame 13... Cover Drive Unit 20... Resin Shield 20P1... First Pin 20R1... Second Pin 20P2... Third Pin 20R2... Fourth Pin 20P3... Fifth Pin 20R3... Sixth Pin 21…First resin shielding plate 21R…First rib 22…Second resin shielding plate 22R…Second rib 23…Third resin shielding plate 30…Drive shaft 40…First link 40C…First base connection part 40L…Lever connection part 40Q1…First fitting hole 40Q2…Third fitting hole 40Q3…Fifth fitting hole 45…Slot 50…Second link 50C…Second base connection part 50Q1…Second fitting hole 50Q2…Fourth fitting hole 50Q3…Sixth fitting hole 60…Lever 61…Guide groove 61W…Bending part 61X…Intersection part 100,200,300…Cover device T…Locus VR…Vibration isolation mechanism part X…Second direction Y…Third direction Z…First direction (optical axis direction)

Claims

1. A base disposed on the subject side of the imaging element and having an opening that surrounds at least a part of the imaging element when viewed in the optical axis direction; A resin shield that can move forward and backward in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction and can shield the opening; A drive shaft rotatably provided on the base; A first base connecting portion rotatably connected to the base and a first fitting hole rotatably connected to the resin shield, and a first link that swings in response to rotation of the drive shaft; The drive shaft has a lever that swings in response to rotation of the drive shaft and extends in a direction intersecting the drive shaft; The first link has a lever connecting portion rotatably connected to the lever; The lever has a guide groove in which the lever connecting portion is locked; The guide groove has an intersection portion extending in a direction intersecting the locus of the lever connecting portion; A cover device.

2. A base disposed on the subject side of the imaging element and having an opening that surrounds at least a part of the imaging element when viewed in the optical axis direction; A resin shield that can move forward and backward in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction and can shield the opening; A drive shaft rotatably provided on the base; A first base connecting portion rotatably connected to the base and a first fitting hole rotatably connected to the resin shield, and a first link that swings in response to rotation of the drive shaft; The resin shield has a first resin shield plate and a second resin shield plate that overlaps at least a part of the first resin shield plate when viewed in the optical axis direction; The first resin shield plate protrudes toward the second resin shield plate and has a first rib that can shield light from the gap between the first resin shield plate and the second resin shield plate; The second resin shield plate protrudes toward the first resin shield plate and has a second rib that can block the gap; The first rib and the second rib overlap when viewed in the intersecting direction; A cover device.

Images