Zoom lens and imaging device

Abstract

A zoom lens according to the present invention is configured of: a first lens group having a positive refractive power; a second lens group having a negative reflective power; a middle lens group having at least one positive lens group and having a positive refractive power as a whole; and a rear lens group having at least a negative lens group and a positive lens group. When the object distance changes from infinity to a short distance, the negative lens group and the positive lens group in the rear lens group individually move along the optical axis direction with mutually different trajectories, and the negative lens group in the rear lens group moves towards the image surface side. During zooming from the wide angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group moves toward the object side with respect to the image surface, and the first lens group, the second lens group, the middle lens group, and the rear lens group individually move such that the mutual gaps between adjacent lens groups change along the optical axis.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to a zoom lens and an imaging device. [Background technology]

[0002] Optical systems used in imaging devices universally require compactness and light weight, a bright f-number, high image quality across the entire focusing range, and a high maximum magnification, while simultaneously achieving all of these at a high level. Furthermore, for example, as a zoom lens that includes the standard angle of view range, a positive lead type configuration has been proposed in which the lens group with positive refractive power that extends towards the object as the magnification changes, and in order to achieve high image quality across the entire focusing range, multiple lens groups are moved separately to focus from infinity to close distance (see Patent Documents 1 and 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-102588 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2019 / 97719 [Overview of the project]

[0004] The configurations proposed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are unlikely to fully satisfy the above-mentioned requirements.

[0005] It is desirable to provide a zoom lens that is compact and lightweight yet has a large aperture and high optical performance, while simultaneously suppressing performance fluctuations with respect to shooting distance and achieving a high maximum magnification, as well as an imaging device equipped with such a zoom lens.

[0006] A first zoom lens according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises, in order from the object side toward the image plane side, a first lens group having positive refractive power, a second lens group having negative refractive power, and at least one positive lens group.One or more lens groups including It consists of an intermediate lens group having a positive refractive power as a whole, and a rear lens group having at least a negative lens group and a positive lens group in order from the object side, and when the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, the negative lens group and the positive lens group in the rear lens group move in the optical axis direction along different trajectories from each other, and the negative lens group in the rear lens group moves toward the image plane to perform focusing, and when zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group moves toward the object relative to the image plane, and the first lens group, second lens group, intermediate lens group, and rear lens group each move such that the spacing between adjacent lens groups changes along the optical axis. The first lens group, the second lens group, all the lens groups constituting the intermediate lens group, and the negative and positive lens groups in the rear lens group are configured to move along the optical axis. The intermediate lens group has at least two negative lenses and satisfies the following condition. -0.31≦(1-βrp_w 2 ) / [(1-βrn_w 2 )*βrp_w 2 ]≦0 …(1) however, βrn_w: Horizontal magnification of the negative lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. βrp_w: Horizontal magnification of the positive lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Let's assume that.

[0007] The second zoom lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes, in order from the object side toward the image plane side, a first lens group having a positive refractive power, a second lens group having a negative refractive power, an intermediate lens group having at least one positive lens group and having a positive refractive power as a whole, and a rear lens group having at least a negative lens group and a positive lens group in order from the object side. When the object distance changes from infinity to a short distance, the negative lens group and the positive lens group in the rear lens group move in the optical axis direction along different trajectories from each other, and focusing is performed by the negative lens group in the rear lens group moving toward the image plane side. When zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group moves toward the object side with respect to the image plane, and the first lens group, the second lens group, the intermediate lens group, and the rear lens group move such that the distance between adjacent lens groups changes on the optical axis. The first lens group has three lenses and satisfies the following conditional expression. -0.31≦(1-βrp_w 2 ) / [(1-βrn_w 2 )*βrp_w 2 ≦0 …(1) However, βrn_w: Lateral magnification at the wide-angle end and infinity focus of the negative lens group in the rear lens group βrp_w: Lateral magnification at the wide-angle end and infinity focus of the positive lens group in the rear lens group is defined as such.

[0008] The first imaging device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a zoom lens and an imaging element that outputs an imaging signal corresponding to an optical image formed by the zoom lens, and the zoom lens is configured by the first zoom lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure described above.

[0009] The second imaging device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a zoom lens and an imaging element that outputs an imaging signal corresponding to an optical image formed by the zoom lens, and the zoom lens is configured by the second zoom lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure described above.

[0010] In the first and second zoom lenses or the first and second imaging devices according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the lens groups are optimized so that they are small and lightweight, have a large aperture, have high optical performance, and can achieve both suppression of performance fluctuations according to the shooting distance and a high maximum magnification.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a lens cross-sectional view showing a first configuration example (Example 1) of a zoom lens according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an aberration diagram showing longitudinal aberration at the wide-angle end and infinity focus of the zoom lens according to Example 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an aberration diagram showing longitudinal aberration at the intermediate position and infinity focus of the zoom lens according to Example 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an aberration diagram showing longitudinal aberration at the telephoto end and infinity focus of the zoom lens according to Example 1. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an aberration diagram showing longitudinal aberration at the wide-angle end and close focus of the zoom lens according to Example 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an aberration diagram showing longitudinal aberration at the intermediate position and close focus of the zoom lens according to Example 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an aberration diagram showing longitudinal aberration at the telephoto end and close focus of the zoom lens according to Example 1. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an aberration diagram showing lateral aberration at the wide-angle end and infinity focus of the zoom lens according to Example 1. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an aberration diagram showing lateral aberration at the intermediate position and infinity focus of the zoom lens according to Example 1. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an aberration diagram showing lateral aberration at the telephoto end and infinity focus of the zoom lens according to Example 1. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an aberration diagram showing lateral aberration at the wide-angle end and close focus of the zoom lens according to Example 1. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 1 at an intermediate position and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 1 at the telephoto end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of a lens showing a second configuration example (Example 2) of a zoom lens according to one embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 2 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 2 at an intermediate position and when focused at infinity. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 2 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 2 at the wide-angle end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 2 at an intermediate position and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 2 at the telephoto end and when focusing at a close distance. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 2 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 2 at an intermediate position and when focused at infinity. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 2 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 2 at the wide-angle end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 25]Figure 25 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 2 at an intermediate position and when focused at close range. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 2 at the telephoto end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of a lens showing a third configuration example (Example 3) of a zoom lens according to one embodiment. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 3 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 29] Figure 29 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 3 at an intermediate position and when focused at infinity. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 3 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 3 at the wide-angle end and when focusing at a close distance. [Figure 32] Figure 32 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 3 at an intermediate position and when focused at close range. [Figure 33] Figure 33 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Embodiment 3 at the telephoto end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 34] Figure 34 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 3 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 35] Figure 35 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 3 at an intermediate position and when focused at infinity. [Figure 36] Figure 36 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 3 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 37] Figure 37 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 3 at the wide-angle end and when focused at close range. [Figure 38] Figure 38 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Embodiment 3 at an intermediate position and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 39] Figure 39 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 3 at the telephoto end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 40] Figure 40 is a cross-sectional view of a lens showing a fourth configuration example (Example 4) of a zoom lens according to one embodiment. [Figure 41] Figure 41 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 4 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 42] Figure 42 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 4 at an intermediate position and when focused at infinity. [Figure 43] Figure 43 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 4 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 44] Figure 44 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 4 at the wide-angle end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 45] Figure 45 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 4 at an intermediate position and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 46] Figure 46 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 4 at the telephoto end and when focusing at a close distance. [Figure 47] Figure 47 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 4 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 48] Figure 48 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 4 at an intermediate position and when focused at infinity. [Figure 49] Figure 49 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 4 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 50] Figure 50 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 4 at the wide-angle end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 51] Figure 51 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 4 at an intermediate position and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 52]Figure 52 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 4 at the telephoto end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 53] Figure 53 is a cross-sectional view of a lens showing a fifth configuration example (Example 5) of a zoom lens according to one embodiment. [Figure 54] Figure 54 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 5 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 55] Figure 55 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 5 at an intermediate position and when focused at infinity. [Figure 56] Figure 56 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 5 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 57] Figure 57 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 5 at the wide-angle end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 58] Figure 58 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 5 at an intermediate position and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 59] Figure 59 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 5 at the telephoto end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 60] Figure 60 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 5 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 61] Figure 61 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 5 at an intermediate position and when focused at infinity. [Figure 62] Figure 62 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 5 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 63] Figure 63 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 5 at the wide-angle end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 64] Figure 64 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 5 at an intermediate position and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 65] Figure 65 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 5 at the telephoto end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 66] Figure 66 is a cross-sectional view of a lens showing a sixth configuration example (Example 6) of a zoom lens according to one embodiment. [Figure 67] Figure 67 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 6 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 68] Figure 68 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 6 at an intermediate position and when focused at infinity. [Figure 69] Figure 69 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 6 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 70] Figure 70 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 6 at the wide-angle end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 71] Figure 71 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 6 at an intermediate position and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 72] Figure 72 is an aberration diagram showing the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 6 at the telephoto end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 73] Figure 73 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 6 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 74] Figure 74 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 6 at an intermediate position and when focused at infinity. [Figure 75] Figure 75 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 6 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. [Figure 76] Figure 76 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 6 at the wide-angle end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 77] Figure 77 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 6 at an intermediate position and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 78] Figure 78 is an aberration diagram showing the lateral aberration of the zoom lens according to Example 6 at the telephoto end and when focused at a close distance. [Figure 79]Figure 79 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of an imaging device. [Figure 80] Figure 80 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of a vehicle control system. [Figure 81] Figure 81 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the installation location of the external information detection unit and the imaging unit. [Figure 82] Figure 82 shows an example of a schematic configuration of an endoscope system. [Figure 83] Figure 83 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the camera and CCU shown in Figure 82. [Figure 84] Figure 84 shows an example of a schematic configuration of a microsurgical system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The description will be given in the following order. 0. Comparative Example 1. Basic lens configuration 2. Action and Effects 3. Examples of application to imaging devices 4. Numerical Examples of Lenses 5. Application Examples 6. Other Embodiments

[0013] <0. Comparative Example> The zoom lens described in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-102588) has an insufficient configuration of the first lens group and intermediate lens group in order to suppress spherical aberration at the telephoto end, which is required when increasing the aperture size, making it difficult to increase the aperture size while maintaining high image quality. In fact, Patent Document 1 does not propose any examples of large-aperture zoom lenses with an F value of 4 or less at the telephoto end.

[0014] Furthermore, the variable magnification optical system described in Patent Document 2 (International Publication No. 2019 / 97719) has a relationship between the ratio of the amount of movement of the focus lens group and the amount of movement of the image plane, so-called focus sensitivity, and the trajectory of the focus lens group, which is not appropriate from the viewpoint of suppressing the focus stroke. For this reason, when attempting to increase the maximum magnification (high close-up shooting capability), the focus stroke and, consequently, the overall length of the optical system become redundant, resulting in an optical system that is unsuitable for miniaturization, weight reduction, and high-speed AF (autofocus).

[0015] Therefore, there is a need for the development of a zoom lens that is compact and lightweight, yet possesses a large aperture and high optical performance, while simultaneously suppressing performance fluctuations with shooting distance and achieving a high maximum magnification.

[0016] <1. Basic Lens Configuration> Figure 1 shows a first configuration example of a zoom lens according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, which corresponds to the configuration of Example 1 described later. Figure 14 shows a second configuration example of a zoom lens according to one embodiment, which corresponds to the configuration of Example 2 described later. Figure 27 shows a third configuration example of a zoom lens according to one embodiment, which corresponds to the configuration of Example 3 described later. Figure 40 shows a fourth configuration example of a zoom lens according to one embodiment, which corresponds to the configuration of Example 4 described later. Figure 53 shows a fifth configuration example of a zoom lens according to one embodiment, which corresponds to the configuration of Example 5 described later. Figure 66 shows a sixth configuration example of a zoom lens according to one embodiment, which corresponds to the configuration of Example 6 described later.

[0017] In Figure 1, etc., Z1 indicates the optical axis. Between the zoom lenses 1 to 6 in the first to sixth configuration examples and the image plane IMG, optical elements such as cover glass for protecting the image sensor may be placed. In addition to cover glass, various optical filters such as low-pass filters and infrared cut filters may also be placed as optical elements.

[0018] The configuration of a zoom lens according to one embodiment of this disclosure will be described below, with appropriate correspondence to zoom lenses 1 to 6 shown in Figure 1, etc., but the technology of this disclosure is not limited to the illustrated configuration examples.

[0019] A zoom lens according to one embodiment is composed of, in order from the object side toward the image plane side, a first lens group Gr1 having a positive refractive power as a whole, a second lens group Gr2 having a negative refractive power as a whole, an intermediate lens group Grm having a positive refractive power as a whole, and a rear lens group Grr.

[0020] The intermediate lens group Grm has at least one positive lens group. In the embodiments described later, in zoom lens 1 according to Embodiment 1, the fourth lens group Gr4 and the fifth lens group Gr5 are positive lens groups in the intermediate lens group Grm. In zoom lenses 2 to 5 according to Embodiments 2 to 5, the third lens group Gr3 and the fourth lens group Gr4 are positive lens groups in the intermediate lens group Grm. In zoom lens 6 according to Embodiment 6, the third lens group Gr3 is a positive lens group in the intermediate lens group Grm.

[0021] The rear lens group Grr has at least a negative lens group Grrn and a positive lens group Grrp in order from the object side. In the embodiments described later, in zoom lens 1 according to Embodiment 1, the sixth lens group Gr6 is the negative lens group Grrn, and the seventh lens group Gr7 is the positive lens group Grrp. Also, in zoom lenses 2 to 5 according to Embodiments 2 to 5, the fifth lens group Gr5 is the negative lens group Grrn, and the sixth lens group Gr6 is the positive lens group Grrp. Also, in zoom lens 6 according to Embodiment 6, the fourth lens group Gr4 is the negative lens group Grrn, and the fifth lens group Gr5 is the positive lens group Grrp.

[0022] The first lens group Gr1 may have three lenses. The intermediate lens group Grm may have at least two negative lenses.

[0023] In one embodiment of the zoom lens, when the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, the negative lens group Grrn and the positive lens group Grrp in the rear lens group Grr move along the optical axis on different trajectories, and the negative lens group Grrn in the rear lens group Grr moves toward the image plane, thereby performing focusing. In other words, the negative lens group Grrn and the positive lens group Grrp each function as focusing lens groups.

[0024] Furthermore, in the zoom lens according to one embodiment, when zooming from the wide-angle end (Wide) to the telephoto end (Tele), the first lens group Gr1 moves toward the object relative to the image plane IMG, and the first lens group Gr1, the second lens group Gr2, the intermediate lens group Grm, and the rear lens group Grr each move such that the spacing between adjacent lens groups changes along the optical axis. In Figure 1, etc., the upper section shows the lens arrangement at the wide-angle end and infinity focus, and the lower section shows an overview of the movement trajectory of each lens group when zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, indicated by arrows.

[0025] Furthermore, the zoom lens according to one embodiment may also satisfy predetermined conditional formulas, etc., as described later.

[0026] <2. Action and Effects> Next, the operation and effects of a zoom lens according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In addition, a more preferred configuration of the zoom lens according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and its operation and effects will be described. Furthermore, the effects described herein are merely illustrative and not limited to those described herein, and other effects may also occur.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the zoom lens, the configuration of each lens group is optimized to achieve compactness, high performance, and a high magnification ratio. This makes it possible to provide a compact, high-performance, and high-magnification ratio zoom lens, and an imaging device equipped with such a zoom lens.

[0028] A zoom lens according to one embodiment is composed of, in order from the object side toward the image plane side, a first lens group Gr1 having a positive refractive power as a whole, a second lens group Gr2 having a negative refractive power as a whole, an intermediate lens group Grm having a positive refractive power as a whole, and a rear lens group Grr. The intermediate lens group Grm has at least one positive lens group. The rear lens group Grr has at least a negative lens group Grrn and a positive lens group Grrp in order from the object side. In this configuration, by zooming in such a way that the spacing between each lens group of the first lens group Gr1, the second lens group Gr2, the intermediate lens group Grm, and the rear lens group Grr is changed, a large magnification effect suitable for a zoom lens can be obtained.

[0029] Furthermore, by configuring the first lens group Gr1 to have three lenses, or by configuring the intermediate lens group Grm to have at least two negative lenses, it is possible to obtain aberration correction capabilities that can withstand the increased aperture at the telephoto end.

[0030] Furthermore, in a zoom lens according to one embodiment, a negative lens group Grrn is placed immediately after the positive refractive power intermediate lens group Grm, and by giving the negative lens group Grrn high focusing sensitivity (the ratio of the amount of movement of the image plane position to the amount of unit movement of the group), the negative lens group Grrn contributes to miniaturization of the lens barrel. In addition, the negative lens group Grrn functions as a focusing lens group suitable for high-speed autofocus. Moreover, when focusing to change the object distance from infinity to close distance, the negative lens group Grrn can be moved toward the image plane, thereby giving the negative lens group Grrn the primary close-range focusing capability.

[0031] Furthermore, by disposing a positive lens group Grrp as another focus lens group adjacent to the image plane side of the negative lens group Grrn, it becomes possible to overlap the focus strokes of the negative lens group Grrn and the positive lens group Grrp in one space within the lens barrel, resulting in a configuration that is advantageous for reducing the size and weight of the lens barrel. Also, by moving the negative lens group Grrn and the positive lens group Grrp along different trajectories as focus lens groups during focusing, the degree of freedom for aberration correction at focusing with a finite object distance can be increased, and high optical performance can be achieved across the entire focusing region.

[0032] The zoom lens according to one embodiment may satisfy the following conditional expression (1). -0.31≦(1-βrp_w 2 ) / [(1-βrn_w 2 )*βrp_w 2 ≦0 …(1) However, βrn_w: Lateral magnification at the wide-angle end of the negative lens group Grrn in the rear lens group Grr and at infinite focus βrp_w: Lateral magnification at the wide-angle end of the positive lens group Grrp in the rear lens group Grr and at infinite focus shall be defined as such.

[0033] Conditional equation (1) is an equation relating to the lateral magnification of the negative lens group Grrn and the positive lens group Grrp in the rear lens group Grr. When pursuing miniaturization of the optical system, the negative lens group Grrn and the positive lens group Grrp are positioned close to each other in the lens barrel. If one moves significantly toward the image plane beyond a certain stroke amount, the other will also move toward the image plane to avoid it. Due to this background, when the value falls below the lower limit of conditional equation (1), the absolute value of the focusing sensitivity of the positive lens group Grrp becomes larger than that of the negative lens group Grrn. Furthermore, when focusing to change the object distance from infinity to close distance, if the negative lens group Grrn is moved significantly toward the image plane to obtain a high maximum magnification, it is strongly affected by the cancellation due to the focusing sensitivity of the positive lens group Grrp, which moves to avoid the negative lens group Grrn. This results in a redundant focus stroke and makes it difficult to suppress the size of the lens barrel. Note that the upper limit of conditional equation (1) is 0 because the negative lens group Grrn has a negative refractive power and the positive lens group Grrp has a positive refractive power.

[0034] Furthermore, by setting the numerical range of condition (1) as shown in condition (1A) below, a greater effect can be obtained. -0.28≦(1-βrp_w 2 ) / [(1-βrn_w 2 )*βrp_w 2 ]≦0 ……(1A)

[0035] Furthermore, in a zoom lens according to one embodiment, the intermediate lens group Grm may have at least one lens group including a positive lens group, and at least one lens group in the intermediate lens group Grm may move relative to the image plane IMG during zooming. This provides a degree of freedom in the relative relationship between the lens group and the other lens groups, making it easier to balance the magnification effect and aberration correction, and improving the imaging performance of the optical system.

[0036] Furthermore, in a zoom lens according to one embodiment, the intermediate lens group Grm may be configured to have two positive lens groups. In the intermediate lens group Grm, the axial ray height is increased, playing an important role in correcting spherical aberration and coma aberration. In the intermediate lens group Grm, when zooming, the two positive lens groups change their relative relationship and move, providing flexibility in both magnification and aberration correction. This makes it possible to realize a variable magnification optical system suitable for large apertures, where the F value is 3 or less while covering the standard angle of view in the zooming region. Note that in the embodiments described later, zoom lenses 1 to 5 according to embodiments 1 to 5 correspond to this configuration.

[0037] Furthermore, a zoom lens according to one embodiment may satisfy the following condition (2). 0.60 <fm_w / fw<1.60 ……(2) however, fw: Total focal length of the system at the wide-angle end fm_w: Focal length of the intermediate lens group Grm at the wide-angle end Let's assume that.

[0038] Conditional equation (2) defines a preferred range for the ratio of the total focal length of the system at the wide-angle end to the focal length of the intermediate lens group Grm at the wide-angle end. If the ratio falls below the lower limit of conditional equation (2), the refractive power of the intermediate lens group Grm becomes too strong at the wide-angle end, making it difficult to correct spherical aberration and coma aberration at the wide-angle end. On the other hand, if the ratio exceeds the upper limit of conditional equation (2), the refractive power of the intermediate lens group Grm becomes too weak, requiring a large amount of movement of the intermediate lens group Grm during magnification to obtain the desired magnification ratio, making it difficult to miniaturize the lens barrel.

[0039] Furthermore, by setting the numerical range of condition (2) as shown in condition (2A) below, a greater effect can be obtained. 0.80 <fm_w / fw<1.30 ……(2A)

[0040] Furthermore, a zoom lens according to one embodiment may satisfy the following condition (3). 0.25 <fm_t / ft<0.70 ……(3) however, ft: Total focal length of the system at the telephoto end fm_t: Focal length of the intermediate lens group Grm at the telephoto end Let's assume that.

[0041] Conditional equation (3) defines a preferred range for the ratio of the total focal length of the system at the telephoto end to the focal length of the intermediate lens group Grm at the telephoto end. If the ratio falls below the lower limit of conditional equation (3), the refractive power of the intermediate lens group Grm at the telephoto end becomes too strong, making it difficult to correct spherical aberration and coma aberration at the telephoto end. On the other hand, if the ratio exceeds the upper limit of conditional equation (3), the refractive power of the intermediate lens group Grm becomes too weak, requiring a large amount of movement of the intermediate lens group Grm during magnification to obtain the desired magnification ratio, making it difficult to miniaturize the telescope tube.

[0042] Furthermore, by setting the numerical range of condition (3) as shown in condition (3A) below, a higher effect can be obtained. 0.28 <fm_t / ft<0.50 ……(3A)

[0043] Furthermore, in a zoom lens according to one embodiment, the negative lens group Grrn in the rear lens group Grr may be composed of a single lens. By composing the negative lens group Grrn as a single lens, the negative lens group Grrn can be made into a smaller and lighter focusing lens group, and the thickness in the optical axis direction can also be reduced. At the same time, the actuator that drives the negative lens group Grrn can also be miniaturized, resulting in an optical system that is desirable for miniaturization and weight reduction of the lens barrel.

[0044] Furthermore, in a zoom lens according to one embodiment, the positive lens group Grrp in the rear lens group Grr may be composed of a single lens. By composing the positive lens group Grrp as a single lens, the positive lens group Grrp can be made into a smaller and lighter focusing lens group, and the thickness in the optical axis direction can also be reduced. At the same time, the actuator that drives the positive lens group Grrp can also be miniaturized, resulting in an optical system that is desirable for miniaturization and weight reduction of the lens barrel.

[0045] Furthermore, by making the negative lens group Grrn a single lens with negative refractive power and the positive lens group Grrp a single lens with positive refractive power, the rear lens group Grr has a configuration in which negative lenses with a relatively large edge thickness relative to their center thickness and positive lenses with a relatively large center thickness relative to their edge thickness are connected as adjacent groups. As a result, when the thicknesses of each single lens constituting both the negative lens group Grrn and the positive lens group Grrp are added in the direction of the optical axis, the difference in thickness between the lens center and the lens periphery becomes small. This improves space efficiency and is even more suitable for miniaturizing the lens barrel.

[0046] Furthermore, a zoom lens according to one embodiment may satisfy the following condition (4). 0.2 <BF_w / fw≦1.2 ……(4) however, BF_w: Back focus at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity (distance from the image plane IMG to the image plane IMG on the rear lens group Grr) Let's assume that.

[0047] Conditional equation (4) defines a suitable range for the back focus at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity, and is primarily a conditional equation for providing a variable magnification optical system suitable for interchangeable lenses in interchangeable-lens mirrorless camera systems. If the value falls below the lower limit of conditional equation (4), the back focus becomes too short, and the image plane (IMG) and the final surface of the zoom lens become too close together, resulting in an optical system unsuitable for interchangeable-lens cameras. If the value exceeds the upper limit of conditional equation (4), the back focus becomes too long, making it difficult to adequately correct aberrations that are problematic in peripheral image height, such as distortion, field curvature, and chromatic aberration, in the lens group close to the image plane (IMG), resulting in an optical system that does not take advantage of the benefits of an interchangeable-lens mirrorless camera system. Furthermore, because the back focus becomes too long, the negative power of the second lens group Gr2 becomes strong, making it difficult to suppress aberrations occurring in the second lens group Gr2.

[0048] Furthermore, by setting the numerical range of condition (4) as shown in condition (4A) below, a higher effect can be obtained. 0.4 <BF_w / fw≦1.0 ……(4)

[0049] Furthermore, in a zoom lens according to one embodiment, the first lens group Gr1 may have a lens L1i that satisfies the following condition (5). In the embodiments described later, in zoom lenses 1 to 6 according to embodiments 1 to 6, lens L11 corresponds to lens L1i that satisfies condition (5). nd_L1i / dL1i>0.50 ……(5) however, nd_L1i: Refractive index of the glass material of lens L1i in the first lens group Gr1 that satisfies condition (5) with respect to the d line. d_L1i: The ratio (specific gravity) of the mass of the glass material of lens L1i in the first lens group Gr1 that satisfies condition (5) at room temperature (15°C to 25°C) to the mass of the same volume of pure water at 4°C under a pressure of 101.325 kPa (standard atmospheric pressure). Let's assume that.

[0050] Conditional equation (5) defines the optimal relationship between the refractive index and specific gravity of lens L1i in the first lens group Gr1 with respect to the d line. In general, in zoom lenses, the lens aperture of the leading lens group Gr1 is often the largest in the optical system, and minimizing the weight of the first lens group Gr1 is crucial for reducing the overall weight of the lens barrel. Depending on the specifications required for the optical system, the first lens group Gr1 is required to have a certain refractive power, and it is obvious that using glass material with a high refractive index will reduce the volume of the lens when the same refractive power is achieved in the lens group. On the other hand, glass materials generally used in camera lenses tend to have a higher specific gravity the higher the refractive index, so pursuing only a high refractive index can lead to an increase in the lens weight due to the increase in specific gravity. However, depending on the composition of the glass material, there are some that have a relatively small specific gravity relative to their refractive index. Therefore, by adopting glass material with a large refractive index / specific gravity value, it is possible to achieve an optical system that is suitable for reducing the weight of the first lens group Gr1 and, consequently, the entire lens barrel, while obtaining the desired refractive index. If the value falls below the lower limit of condition (5), the ratio of refractive index to specific gravity becomes unsuitable for weight reduction, resulting in an increased weight for the telescope tube.

[0051] Furthermore, in a zoom lens according to one embodiment, the second lens group Gr2 may have a positive lens L2p that satisfies the following condition (6). In the embodiments described later, in zoom lens 1 according to Embodiment 1, lens L23 corresponds to the positive lens L2p that satisfies condition (6). In zoom lenses 2 to 6 according to Embodiments 2 to 6, lens L24 corresponds to the positive lens L2p that satisfies condition (6). 1.955 <nd_L2p ……(6) however, nd_L2p: Refractive index of positive lens L2p in the second lens group Gr2 that satisfies condition (6) with respect to the d line. Let's assume that.

[0052] By applying a high refractive index glass material that satisfies condition (6) to the positive lens L2p in the second lens group Gr2, the central thickness of the positive lens L2p can be reduced, thereby suppressing the thickness of the second lens group Gr2. Generally, suppressing the thickness of lens groups not only directly contributes to miniaturization of the lens barrel, but also allows for greater movement of the lens group during magnification, making it an effective means of miniaturization without increasing the refractive power of the lens group, which would worsen manufacturing difficulty. If the refractive index falls below the lower limit of condition (6), the refractive index becomes low, and in order for the positive lens L2p to maintain the same refractive power, it becomes necessary to compensate with refractive power due to curvature, which increases the central thickness of the positive lens L2p, resulting in an optical system that is undesirable for miniaturization of the lens barrel, etc.

[0053] Furthermore, in a zoom lens according to one embodiment, the intermediate lens group Grm may have a positive lens Lmp_asp with a partially negative refractive aspheric surface. In the embodiments described later, in zoom lens 1 according to Embodiment 1, lens L41 corresponds to this positive lens Lmp_asp with the aspheric surface. In zoom lenses 2 to 5 according to Embodiments 2 to 5, lens L31 corresponds to this positive lens Lmp_asp with the aspheric surface.

[0054] The intermediate lens group Grm is a lens group in which the height of the on-axis marginal rays increases due to the negative refractive power of the second lens group Gr2, and correcting spherical aberration becomes a challenge when increasing the aperture. Since the intermediate lens group Grm as a whole has a positive refractive power, there are inevitably many lenses and surfaces with positive refractive action. However, in order to cancel out the positive spherical aberration in these surfaces, surfaces with strong negative refractive power are required within the intermediate lens group Grm. If such surfaces are provided only by spherical surfaces, lenses with strong negative refractive power are required, and such lenses have a very large edge thickness relative to the center thickness, which is disadvantageous in suppressing the thickness of the intermediate lens group Grm and shortening the overall optical length. Therefore, by providing a refractive surface in the intermediate lens group Grm that has a positive refractive power in the paraxial direction but an aspherical surface with a negative refractive effect that cancels out spherical aberration in the peripheral region, spherical aberration can be corrected well without the need for an extremely strong negative refractive surface that would be detrimental to suppressing the thickness of the intermediate lens group Grm and shortening the overall optical length, making it suitable as an optical system for a large-aperture zoom lens.

[0055] Furthermore, in a zoom lens according to one embodiment, the first lens group Gr1 may have a positive lens L1p that satisfies the following condition (7). In the embodiments described later, in zoom lenses 1 to 6 according to embodiments 1 to 6, lens L12 corresponds to the positive lens L1p that satisfies condition (7). θgF_L1p-(-0.001801*νd_L1p+0.648262)>0.005 ……(7) however, θgF_L1p: Partial dispersion ratio between the g-line and the F-line of positive lens L1p in the first lens group Gr1 that satisfies condition (7). νd_L1p: Abbe number for the d line of positive lens L1p in the first lens group Gr1 that satisfies condition (7) Let's assume that.

[0056] Conditional equation (7) defines a suitable range for the anomalous dispersion of the positive lens L1p in the first lens group Gr1. By using a glass material with high anomalous dispersion that satisfies conditional equation (7) for the positive lens L1p in the first lens group Gr1, it becomes possible to achieve balanced correction of axial chromatic aberration and lateral chromatic aberration in the wavelength range from the g line to the F line from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end. If the value falls below the lower limit of conditional equation (7), the correction of chromatic aberration will be insufficient.

[0057] Furthermore, by setting the numerical range of condition (7) as shown in condition (7A) below, a greater effect can be obtained. θgF_L1p-(-0.001801*νd_L1p+0.648262)>0.010 ……(7A)

[0058] Furthermore, in a zoom lens according to one embodiment, the first lens group Gr1 may have a negative lens L1n that satisfies the following condition (8). In the embodiments described later, in zoom lenses 1 to 6 according to embodiments 1 to 6, lens L11 corresponds to the negative lens L1n that satisfies condition (8). νd_L1n<23.0 ……(8) however, νd_L1n: Abbe number for the d line of the negative lens L1n in the first lens group Gr1 that satisfies condition (8) Let's assume that.

[0059] Conditional equation (8) defines a suitable range for the Abbe number of the negative lens L1n in the first lens group Gr1. By using a glass material with a small Abbe number and high dispersion that satisfies conditional equation (8) for the negative lens L1n in the first lens group Gr1, good correction of axial chromatic aberration can be achieved in the first lens group Gr1, which has a positive refractive power overall, and good correction of lateral chromatic aberration from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end can be achieved. If the upper limit of conditional equation (8) is exceeded, the correction of chromatic aberration will be insufficient.

[0060] Furthermore, by setting the numerical range of condition (8) as shown in condition (8A) below, a higher effect can be obtained. νd_L1n<21.0 ……(8A)

[0061] Furthermore, in a zoom lens according to one embodiment, the intermediate lens group Grm may have a positive lens Lmp that satisfies the following condition (9). In the embodiments described later, in zoom lens 1 according to Embodiment 1, lenses L42 and L53 correspond to the positive lens Lmp that satisfies condition (9). In zoom lenses 2 to 5 according to Embodiments 2 to 5, lenses L32 and L43 correspond to the positive lens Lmp that satisfies condition (9). In zoom lens 6 according to Embodiment 6, lenses L32 and L36 correspond to the positive lens Lmp that satisfies condition (9). θgF_Lmp-(-0.001801*νd_Lmp+0.648262)>0.045 ……(9) however, θgF_Lmp: Partial dispersion ratio of the g-line and F-line of the positive lens Lmp satisfying condition (9) in the intermediate lens group Grm. νd_Lmp: Abbe number for the d line of the positive lens Lmp in the intermediate lens group Grm that satisfies condition (9). Let's assume that.

[0062] Conditional equation (9) defines a suitable range for the anomalous dispersion of the positive lens Lmp in the intermediate lens group Grm. By using a glass material with high anomalous dispersion that satisfies conditional equation (9) for the positive lens Lmp in the intermediate lens group Grm where the axial rays are high, good axial chromatic aberration correction becomes possible from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, at wavelengths in the range of g-line to F-line. If it falls below the lower limit of conditional equation (9), the correction of chromatic aberration will be insufficient.

[0063] Furthermore, by setting the numerical range of condition (9) as shown in condition (9A) below, a greater effect can be obtained. θgF_Lmp-(-0.001801*νd_Lmp+0.648262)>0.050 ……(9A)

[0064] Furthermore, in a zoom lens according to one embodiment, the lens Lrr positioned closest to the image plane in the rear lens group Grr may be configured as a negative lens that satisfies the following condition (10). In the embodiments described later, in zoom lens 1 according to Embodiment 1, lens L83 corresponds to lens Lrr that satisfies condition (10). In zoom lenses 2 to 5 according to Embodiments 2 to 5, lens L72 corresponds to lens Lrr that satisfies condition (10). 0.9<(r2_rr+r1_rr) / (r2_rr-r1_rr)<6.9 ……(10) however, r1_rr: Radius of curvature of the object-side surface of lens Lrr, the lens located closest to the image plane in the rear lens group Grr. r2_rr: Radius of curvature of the image-plane side of lens Lrr, the lens located closest to the image plane in the rear lens group Grr. Let's assume that.

[0065] Conditional equation (10) is an equation that defines the shape factor. A negative lens that satisfies conditional equation (10) is a concave meniscus lens with a convex, flat, or very gently concave surface facing the image plane. By adopting this shape, in the final lens of a zoom lens according to one embodiment, if a contact surface with the lens frame component is provided on the object-side surface, the effective optical path diameter on the image plane side can be secured in a larger ratio to the lens diameter. If it falls below the lower limit of conditional equation (10), the final lens surface becomes a concave surface with a strongly concave shape facing the image plane IMG, making it difficult to effectively utilize the space at the rear of the lens barrel. If it exceeds the upper limit of conditional equation (10), the power as a negative lens becomes too strong, and the correction of off-axis aberrations such as distortion and field curvature becomes insufficient.

[0066] Furthermore, a greater effect can be obtained by setting the numerical range of condition (10) as shown in condition (10A) below. By setting the lower limit to a value greater than 1, the surface of the lens Lrr on the image plane side will protrude toward the image plane, allowing for effective use of the back focus space. 1.0<(r2_rr+r1_rr) / (r2_rr-r1_rr)<4.0 ……(10A)

[0067] <3. Examples of application to imaging devices> Next, we will describe a specific example of applying a zoom lens according to one embodiment of this disclosure to an imaging device.

[0068] Figure 79 shows an example configuration of an imaging device 100 to which a zoom lens according to one embodiment is applied. This imaging device 100 is, for example, a digital still camera and comprises a camera block 110, a camera signal processing unit 20, an image processing unit 30, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) 40, an R / W (Reader / Writer) 50, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 60, an input unit 70, and a lens drive control unit 80.

[0069] The camera block 110 is responsible for the imaging function and includes an imaging lens 111 and an image sensor 112 such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor). The image sensor 112 converts the optical image formed by the imaging lens 111 into an electrical signal, thereby outputting an imaging signal (image signal) corresponding to the optical image. As the imaging lens 111, zoom lenses 1 to 6 according to the various configuration examples shown in Figure 1, etc., can be applied.

[0070] The camera signal processing unit 20 performs various signal processing on the image signal output from the image sensor 112, such as analog-to-digital conversion, noise reduction, image quality correction, and conversion to luminance and chromatic difference signals.

[0071] The image processing unit 30 performs recording and playback processing of image signals, and is configured to perform compression encoding, decompression and decoding processing of image signals based on a predetermined image data format, as well as conversion processing of data specifications such as resolution.

[0072] The LCD 40 has the function of displaying various data such as the operation status of the user's input unit 70 and captured images. The R / W 50 writes image data encoded by the image processing unit 30 to the memory card 1000 and reads image data recorded on the memory card 1000. The memory card 1000 is, for example, a semiconductor memory that can be inserted into a slot connected to the R / W 50.

[0073] The CPU 60 functions as a control processing unit that controls each circuit block provided in the imaging device 100, and controls each circuit block based on instruction input signals from the input unit 70. The input unit 70 consists of various switches and the like that the user can operate as needed. For example, the input unit 70 consists of a shutter release button for operating the shutter and a selection switch for selecting an operating mode, and outputs instruction input signals to the CPU 60 according to the user's operation. The lens drive control unit 80 controls the drive of the lenses arranged in the camera block 110, and controls motors (not shown) that drive each lens of the imaging lens 111 based on control signals from the CPU 60.

[0074] The operation of the imaging device 100 will be described below. In the standby state for shooting, under the control of the CPU 60, an image signal corresponding to the image captured by the camera block 110 is output to the LCD 40 via the camera signal processing unit 20 and displayed as a camera-through image. Furthermore, when an instruction input signal for zooming or focusing is input from, for example, the input unit 70, the CPU 60 outputs a control signal to the lens drive control unit 80, and a predetermined lens of the imaging lens 111 moves based on the control of the lens drive control unit 80.

[0075] When the shutter of the camera block 110 (not shown) is operated by an instruction input signal from the input unit 70, the captured image signal is output from the camera signal processing unit 20 to the image processing unit 30, where it is compressed and encoded and converted into digital data in a predetermined data format. The converted data is output to the R / W 50 and written to the memory card 1000.

[0076] Focusing is performed, for example, when the shutter release button on the input unit 70 is half-pressed or fully pressed for recording (shooting), by the lens drive control unit 80 moving a predetermined lens of the imaging lens 111 based on a control signal from the CPU 60.

[0077] When playing back image data recorded on the memory card 1000, in response to an operation on the input unit 70, the R / W 50 reads out predetermined image data from the memory card 1000, the image processing unit 30 performs decompression and decoding processing, and then the playback image signal is output to the LCD 40 and the playback image is displayed.

[0078] In the embodiments described above, an example of applying the imaging device to a digital still camera was shown. However, the scope of application of the imaging device is not limited to digital still cameras, and it can be applied to various other imaging devices. For example, it can be applied to digital SLR cameras, digital non-reflex cameras, digital video cameras, and surveillance cameras. It can also be widely applied as the camera section of digital input / output devices such as mobile phones with cameras and information terminals with cameras. Furthermore, it can be applied to interchangeable lens cameras. [Examples]

[0079] <4. Examples of lens numerical values> Next, a specific numerical example of a zoom lens according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Here, an example in which specific numerical values ​​are applied to zoom lenses 1 to 6 according to each configuration example shown in Figure 1, etc., will be described.

[0080] The meanings of the symbols shown in the following tables and explanations are as follows: "Si" indicates the number of the i-th surface, with the sign increasing sequentially from the object side. "ri" indicates the value of the paraxial radius of curvature of the i-th surface (mm). "di" indicates the value of the distance on the optical axis between the i-th surface and the (i+1)-th surface (mm). "ndi" indicates the refractive index value of the material of the optical element having the i-th surface for the d-line (wavelength 587.6 nm). "νdi" indicates the Abbe number value of the material of the optical element having the i-th surface for the d-line. "φi" indicates the effective diameter value of the i-th surface (mm). Parts where the value of "ri" is "∞" indicate a plane or aperture surface, etc. "ASP" in the surface number (Si) column indicates that the surface is composed of an aspherical shape. "STO" in the surface number column indicates that an aperture diaphragm St is located at the corresponding position. "OBJ" in the surface number column indicates that the surface is an object surface (subject surface). In the "Face Number" column, "IMG" indicates that the plane is the image plane. "f" indicates the focal length of the entire system (unit: mm). "Fno" indicates the maximum aperture (F number). "ω" indicates the half-angle of view (unit: °). "Y" indicates the image height (unit: mm). "L" indicates the total optical length (distance along the optical axis from the plane closest to the object to the image plane IMG) (unit: mm).

[0081] Furthermore, some lenses used in each embodiment have lens surfaces composed of aspherical shapes. The aspherical shape is defined by the following formula. In the tables showing the aspherical coefficients described later, "Ei" is expressed as an exponential notation with base 10, i.e., "10 -i This represents "0.12345E-05", for example, "0.12345×10 -5 This represents ".

[0082] (Equation for an aspherical surface) x=c 2 y 2 / (1+(1-(1+k)c 2 y 2 ) 1 / 2 )+A4·y 4 +A6·y 6 +A8·y 8 +A10·y10 +A12·y 12 +A14·y 14 Here, "x" is the distance from the vertex of the lens surface to the optical axis (sag), "y" is the height in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis, "c" is the paraxial curvature (reciprocal of the radius of curvature) at the vertex of the lens surface, and "k" is the conic constant. A4, A6, A8, A10, A12, and A14 are the 4th, 6th, 8th, 10th, 12th, and 14th order aspherical coefficients, respectively.

[0083] [Example 1] Table 1 shows the basic lens data for the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 shown in Figure 1. Table 2 shows the values ​​for the overall focal length f, F-number, overall angle of view 2ω, image height Y, and optical length L for the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1. Table 3 shows the data for the surface spacing that is variable during zooming and focusing in the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1. Also, Table 3 shows the value of the magnification ratio β for the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1. Note that Table 2 shows the values ​​for the wide-angle end (Wide), intermediate position (Mid), and telephoto end (Tele) when the object distance (d0) is at infinity. Table 3 shows the values ​​for the wide-angle end (Wide), intermediate position (Mid), and telephoto end (Tele) when the object distance (d0) is at infinity and when it is at close range. Table 4 shows the values ​​of the coefficient representing the shape of the aspherical surface in the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1. Table 5 shows the starting surface and focal length (in mm) of each lens group of the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1.

[0084] The zoom lens 1 according to Embodiment 1 has a configuration in which the first lens group Gr1 to the eighth lens group Gr8 are arranged in order from the object side to the image plane side. The aperture diaphragm St is located on the object side of the fourth lens group Gr4. The third lens group Gr3 to the fifth lens group Gr5 constitute the intermediate lens group Grm. The sixth lens group Gr6 to the eighth lens group Gr8 constitute the rear lens group Grr. For example, a flare cutter whose diameter changes during zooming may be placed on the image plane side (27th plane) of the fifth lens group Gr5 to improve peripheral optical performance.

[0085] The first lens group Gr1 has a positive refractive power. The first lens group Gr1 consists of lenses L11 to L13 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L11 corresponds to lens L1i that satisfies the above condition (5). Lens L11 also corresponds to negative lens L1n that satisfies the above condition (8). Lens L12 corresponds to positive lens L1p that satisfies the above condition (7).

[0086] The second lens group Gr2 has negative refractive power. The second lens group Gr2 consists of lenses L21 to L23 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L23 corresponds to the positive lens L2p that satisfies the above condition (6).

[0087] The third lens group Gr3 has negative refractive power. The third lens group Gr3 consists of lens L31.

[0088] The fourth lens group Gr4 has a positive refractive power. The fourth lens group Gr4 consists of lenses L41 to L43 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L41 corresponds to a positive lens Lmp_asp with an aspherical surface. Lens L42 corresponds to a positive lens Lmp that satisfies the above condition (9).

[0089] The fifth lens group Gr5 has a positive refractive power. The fifth lens group Gr5 consists of lenses L51 to L55 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L53 corresponds to the positive lens Lmp that satisfies the above condition (9).

[0090] The sixth lens group, Gr6, has negative refractive power. The sixth lens group, Gr6, consists of lens L61. The sixth lens group, Gr6, is the focusing lens group corresponding to the negative lens group Grrn in the rear lens group Grr.

[0091] The seventh lens group, Gr7, has positive refractive power. The seventh lens group, Gr7, consists of lens L71. The seventh lens group, Gr7, is the focusing lens group corresponding to the positive lens group Grrp in the rear lens group Grr.

[0092] The eighth lens group Gr8 has negative refractive power. The eighth lens group Gr8 consists of lenses L81 to L83 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L83 corresponds to lens Lrr that satisfies the above condition (10).

[0093] When zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group Gr1 moves toward the object relative to the image plane IMG, and each of the first lens group Gr1 through the seventh lens group Gr7 moves in such a way that the spacing between adjacent lens groups changes.

[0094] When the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, focusing is achieved by the sixth lens group Gr6 and the seventh lens group Gr7 moving along the optical axis on different trajectories. Also, when the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, focusing is achieved by the sixth lens group Gr6 moving toward the image plane.

[0095] With the above configuration, a zoom lens has been realized that is compact and lightweight, yet possesses a large aperture and high optical performance, while simultaneously suppressing performance fluctuations with shooting distance and achieving a high maximum magnification.

[0096] [Table 1]

[0097] [Table 2]

[0098] [Table 3]

[0099] [Table 4]

[0100] [Table 5]

[0101] Figure 2 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Figure 3 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 at the intermediate position and when focused at infinity. Figure 4 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. Figure 5 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 at the wide-angle end and when focused at close range. Figure 6 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 at the intermediate position and when focused at close range. Figure 7 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 at the telephoto end and when focused at close range. Figure 8 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Figure 9 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 at the intermediate position and when focused at infinity. Figure 10 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. Figure 11 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 at the wide-angle end and when focused at close range. Figure 12 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 at the intermediate position and when focused at close range. Figure 13 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 at the telephoto end and when focused at close range.

[0102] Figures 2 to 7 show longitudinal aberrations, including spherical aberration, astigmatism (field curvature), and distortion. In the spherical aberration diagrams in Figures 2 to 7 and the transverse aberration diagrams in Figures 8 to 13, the solid line represents the value at the d line (587.56 nm), the dashed line represents the value at the g line (435.84 nm), and the dashed line represents the value at the C line (656.27 nm). In the astigmatism diagrams in Figures 2 to 7, S represents the value at the sagittal image plane, and T represents the value at the tangential image plane. In the astigmatism and distortion diagrams in Figures 2 to 7, the value at the d line is shown. The same applies to the aberration diagrams in subsequent embodiments.

[0103] As can be seen from each aberration diagram, the zoom lens 1 according to Example 1 has good correction of various aberrations and excellent imaging performance.

[0104] [Example 2] Table 6 shows the basic lens data for the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 shown in Figure 14. Table 7 shows the values ​​for the overall focal length f, F-number, overall angle of view 2ω, image height Y, and optical length L for the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2. Table 8 shows the data for the surface spacing that is variable during zooming and focusing in the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2. Also, Table 8 shows the value of the magnification ratio β for the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2. Note that Table 7 shows the values ​​for the wide-angle end (Wide), intermediate position (Mid), and telephoto end (Tele) when the object distance (d0) is at infinity. Table 8 shows the values ​​for the wide-angle end (Wide), intermediate position (Mid), and telephoto end (Tele) when the object distance (d0) is at infinity and when it is at close range. Table 9 shows the values ​​of the coefficient representing the shape of the aspherical surface in the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2. Table 10 shows the starting surface and focal length (in mm) of each lens group of the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2.

[0105] The zoom lens 2 according to Embodiment 2 has a configuration in which the first lens group Gr1 to the seventh lens group Gr7 are arranged sequentially from the object side toward the image plane side. The aperture diaphragm St is located on the object side of the third lens group Gr3. The third lens group Gr3 and the fourth lens group Gr4 constitute the intermediate lens group Grm. The fifth lens group Gr5 to the seventh lens group Gr7 constitute the rear lens group Grr. For example, a flare cutter whose diameter changes during zooming may be placed on the object side (21st surface) of the fourth lens group Gr4 to improve peripheral optical performance.

[0106] The first lens group Gr1 has a positive refractive power. The first lens group Gr1 consists of lenses L11 to L13 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L11 corresponds to lens L1i that satisfies the above condition (5). Lens L11 also corresponds to negative lens L1n that satisfies the above condition (8). Lens L12 corresponds to positive lens L1p that satisfies the above condition (7).

[0107] The second lens group Gr2 has negative refractive power. The second lens group Gr2 consists of lenses L21 to L25 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L24 corresponds to the positive lens L2p that satisfies the above condition (6).

[0108] The third lens group Gr3 has a positive refractive power. The third lens group Gr3 consists of lenses L31 to L33 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L31 corresponds to a positive lens Lmp_asp with an aspherical surface. Lens L32 corresponds to a positive lens Lmp that satisfies the above condition (9).

[0109] The fourth lens group Gr4 has a positive refractive power. The fourth lens group Gr4 consists of lenses L41 to L45 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L43 corresponds to the positive lens Lmp that satisfies the above condition (9).

[0110] The fifth lens group Gr5 has negative refractive power. The fifth lens group Gr5 consists of lens L51. The fifth lens group Gr5 is the focusing lens group corresponding to the negative lens group Grrn in the rear lens group Grr.

[0111] The sixth lens group, Gr6, has positive refractive power. The sixth lens group, Gr6, consists of lens L61. The sixth lens group, Gr6, is the focusing lens group corresponding to the positive lens group Grrp in the rear lens group Grr.

[0112] The seventh lens group Gr7 has a negative refractive power. The seventh lens group Gr7 consists of lens L71 and lens L72, arranged in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L72 corresponds to lens Lrr that satisfies the above condition (10).

[0113] When zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group Gr1 moves toward the object relative to the image plane IMG, and each of the first lens group Gr1 through the sixth lens group Gr6 moves in such a way that the spacing between adjacent lens groups changes.

[0114] When the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, focusing is achieved by the fifth lens group Gr5 and the sixth lens group Gr6 moving along the optical axis on different trajectories. Also, when the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, focusing is achieved by the fifth lens group Gr5 moving toward the image plane.

[0115] With the above configuration, a zoom lens has been realized that is compact and lightweight, yet possesses a large aperture and high optical performance, while simultaneously suppressing performance fluctuations with shooting distance and achieving a high maximum magnification.

[0116] [Table 6]

[0117] [Table 7]

[0118] [Table 8]

[0119] [Table 9]

[0120] [Table 10]

[0121] Figure 15 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Figure 16 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 at the intermediate position and when focused at infinity. Figure 17 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. Figure 18 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 at the wide-angle end and when focused at close range. Figure 19 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 at the intermediate position and when focused at close range. Figure 20 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 at the telephoto end and when focused at close range. Figure 21 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Figure 22 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 at the intermediate position and when focused at infinity. Figure 23 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. Figure 24 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 at the wide-angle end and when focused at close range. Figure 25 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 at the intermediate position and when focused at close range. Figure 26 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 at the telephoto end and when focused at close range.

[0122] As can be seen from each aberration diagram, the zoom lens 2 according to Example 2 has good correction of various aberrations and excellent imaging performance.

[0123] [Example 3] Table 11 shows the basic lens data for the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 shown in Figure 27. Table 12 shows the values ​​for the overall focal length f, F-number, overall angle of view 2ω, image height Y, and optical length L for the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3. Table 13 shows the data for the surface spacing that is variable during zooming and focusing in the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3. Also, Table 13 shows the value of the magnification ratio β for the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3. Note that Table 12 shows the values ​​for the wide-angle end (Wide), intermediate position (Mid), and telephoto end (Tele) when the object distance (d0) is at infinity. Table 13 shows the values ​​for the wide-angle end (Wide), intermediate position (Mid), and telephoto end (Tele) when the object distance (d0) is at infinity and when it is at close range. Table 14 shows the values ​​of the coefficient representing the shape of the aspherical surface in the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3. Table 15 shows the starting surface and focal length (in mm) of each lens group of the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3.

[0124] The zoom lens 3 according to Embodiment 3 has a configuration in which the first lens group Gr1 to the seventh lens group Gr7 are arranged in order from the object side toward the image plane side. The aperture diaphragm St is located on the object side of the third lens group Gr3. The third lens group Gr3 and the fourth lens group Gr4 constitute the intermediate lens group Grm. The fifth lens group Gr5 to the seventh lens group Gr7 constitute the rear lens group Grr. For example, a flare cutter whose diameter changes during zooming may be placed on the object side (21st surface) of the fourth lens group Gr4 to improve peripheral optical performance.

[0125] The first lens group Gr1 has a positive refractive power. The first lens group Gr1 consists of lenses L11 to L13 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L11 corresponds to lens L1i that satisfies the above condition (5). Lens L11 also corresponds to negative lens L1n that satisfies the above condition (8). Lens L12 corresponds to positive lens L1p that satisfies the above condition (7).

[0126] The second lens group Gr2 has negative refractive power. The second lens group Gr2 consists of lenses L21 to L25 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L24 corresponds to the positive lens L2p that satisfies the above condition (6).

[0127] The third lens group Gr3 has a positive refractive power. The third lens group Gr3 consists of lenses L31 to L33 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L31 corresponds to a positive lens Lmp_asp with an aspherical surface. Lens L32 corresponds to a positive lens Lmp that satisfies the above condition (9).

[0128] The fourth lens group Gr4 has a positive refractive power. The fourth lens group Gr4 consists of lenses L41 to L45 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L43 corresponds to the positive lens Lmp that satisfies the above condition (9).

[0129] The fifth lens group Gr5 has negative refractive power. The fifth lens group Gr5 consists of lens L51. The fifth lens group Gr5 is the focusing lens group corresponding to the negative lens group Grrn in the rear lens group Grr.

[0130] The sixth lens group, Gr6, has positive refractive power. The sixth lens group, Gr6, consists of lens L61. The sixth lens group, Gr6, is the focusing lens group corresponding to the positive lens group Grrp in the rear lens group Grr.

[0131] The seventh lens group Gr7 has a negative refractive power. The seventh lens group Gr7 consists of lens L71 and lens L72, arranged in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L72 corresponds to lens Lrr that satisfies the above condition (10).

[0132] When zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group Gr1 moves toward the object relative to the image plane IMG, and each of the first lens group Gr1 through the seventh lens group Gr7 moves in such a way that the spacing between adjacent lens groups changes.

[0133] When the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, focusing is achieved by the fifth lens group Gr5 and the sixth lens group Gr6 moving along the optical axis on different trajectories. Also, when the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, focusing is achieved by the fifth lens group Gr5 moving toward the image plane.

[0134] With the above configuration, a zoom lens has been realized that is compact and lightweight, yet possesses a large aperture and high optical performance, while simultaneously suppressing performance fluctuations with shooting distance and achieving a high maximum magnification.

[0135] [Table 11]

[0136] [Table 12]

[0137] [Table 13]

[0138] [Table 14]

[0139] [Table 15]

[0140] Figure 28 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Figure 29 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 at the intermediate position and when focused at infinity. Figure 30 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. Figure 31 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 at the wide-angle end and when focused at close range. Figure 32 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 at the intermediate position and when focused at close range. Figure 33 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 at the telephoto end and when focused at close range. Figure 34 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Figure 35 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 at the intermediate position and when focused at infinity. Figure 36 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. Figure 37 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 at the wide-angle end and when focused at close range. Figure 38 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 at the intermediate position and when focused at close range. Figure 39 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 at the telephoto end and when focused at close range.

[0141] As can be seen from each aberration diagram, the zoom lens 3 according to Example 3 has good correction of various aberrations and excellent imaging performance.

[0142] [Example 4] Table 16 shows the basic lens data for the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 shown in Figure 40. Table 17 shows the values ​​for the overall focal length f, F-number, overall angle of view 2ω, image height Y, and optical length L for the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4. Table 18 shows the data for the surface spacing that is variable during zooming and focusing in the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4. Also, Table 18 shows the value of the magnification ratio β for the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4. Note that Table 17 shows the values ​​for the wide-angle end (Wide), intermediate position (Mid), and telephoto end (Tele) when the object distance (d0) is at infinity. Table 18 shows the values ​​for the wide-angle end (Wide), intermediate position (Mid), and telephoto end (Tele) when the object distance (d0) is at infinity and when it is at close range. Table 19 shows the values ​​of the coefficient representing the shape of the aspherical surface in the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4. Table 20 shows the starting surface and focal length (in mm) of each lens group of the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4.

[0143] The zoom lens 4 according to Embodiment 4 has a configuration in which the first lens group Gr1 to the seventh lens group Gr7 are arranged sequentially from the object side toward the image plane side. The aperture diaphragm St is located on the object side of the third lens group Gr3. The third lens group Gr3 and the fourth lens group Gr4 constitute the intermediate lens group Grm. The fifth lens group Gr5 to the seventh lens group Gr7 constitute the rear lens group Grr. For example, a flare cutter whose diameter changes during zooming may be placed on the object side (21st surface) of the fourth lens group Gr4 to improve peripheral optical performance.

[0144] The first lens group Gr1 has a positive refractive power. The first lens group Gr1 consists of lenses L11 to L13 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L11 corresponds to lens L1i that satisfies the above condition (5). Lens L11 also corresponds to negative lens L1n that satisfies the above condition (8). Lens L12 corresponds to positive lens L1p that satisfies the above condition (7).

[0145] The second lens group Gr2 has negative refractive power. The second lens group Gr2 consists of lenses L21 to L25 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L24 corresponds to the positive lens L2p that satisfies the above condition (6).

[0146] The third lens group Gr3 has a positive refractive power. The third lens group Gr3 consists of lenses L31 to L33 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L31 corresponds to a positive lens Lmp_asp with an aspherical surface. Lens L32 corresponds to a positive lens Lmp that satisfies the above condition (9).

[0147] The fourth lens group Gr4 has a positive refractive power. The fourth lens group Gr4 consists of lenses L41 to L45 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L43 corresponds to the positive lens Lmp that satisfies the above condition (9).

[0148] The fifth lens group Gr5 has negative refractive power. The fifth lens group Gr5 consists of lens L51. The fifth lens group Gr5 is the focusing lens group corresponding to the negative lens group Grrn in the rear lens group Grr.

[0149] The sixth lens group, Gr6, has positive refractive power. The sixth lens group, Gr6, consists of lens L61. The sixth lens group, Gr6, is the focusing lens group corresponding to the positive lens group Grrp in the rear lens group Grr.

[0150] The seventh lens group Gr7 has a negative refractive power. The seventh lens group Gr7 consists of lens L71 and lens L72, arranged in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L72 corresponds to lens Lrr that satisfies the above condition (10).

[0151] When zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group Gr1 moves toward the object relative to the image plane IMG, and each of the first lens group Gr1 through the sixth lens group Gr6 moves in such a way that the spacing between adjacent lens groups changes.

[0152] When the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, focusing is achieved by the fifth lens group Gr5 and the sixth lens group Gr6 moving along the optical axis on different trajectories. Also, when the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, focusing is achieved by the fifth lens group Gr5 moving toward the image plane.

[0153] With the above configuration, a zoom lens has been realized that is compact and lightweight, yet possesses a large aperture and high optical performance, while simultaneously suppressing performance fluctuations with shooting distance and achieving a high maximum magnification.

[0154] [Table 16]

[0155] [Table 17]

[0156] [Table 18]

[0157] [Table 19]

[0158] [Table 20]

[0159] Figure 41 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Figure 42 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 at the intermediate position and when focused at infinity. Figure 43 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. Figure 44 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 at the wide-angle end and when focused at close range. Figure 45 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 at the intermediate position and when focused at close range. Figure 46 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 at the telephoto end and when focused at close range. Figure 47 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Figure 48 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 at the intermediate position and when focused at infinity. Figure 49 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. Figure 50 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 at the wide-angle end and when focused at close range. Figure 51 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 at the intermediate position and when focused at close range. Figure 52 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 at the telephoto end and when focused at close range.

[0160] As can be seen from each aberration diagram, the zoom lens 4 according to Example 4 has good correction of various aberrations and excellent imaging performance.

[0161] [Example 5] Table 21 shows the basic lens data for the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 shown in Figure 53. Table 22 shows the values ​​for the overall focal length f, F-number, overall angle of view 2ω, image height Y, and optical length L for the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5. Table 23 shows the data for the surface spacing that is variable during zooming and focusing in the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5. Also, Table 23 shows the value of the magnification ratio β for the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5. Note that Table 22 shows the values ​​for the wide-angle end (Wide), intermediate position (Mid), and telephoto end (Tele) when the object distance (d0) is at infinity. Table 23 shows the values ​​for the wide-angle end (Wide), intermediate position (Mid), and telephoto end (Tele) when the object distance (d0) is at infinity and when it is at close range. Table 24 shows the coefficient values ​​representing the shape of the aspherical surface in the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5. Table 25 shows the starting surface and focal length (in mm) of each lens group of the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5.

[0162] The zoom lens 5 according to Embodiment 5 has a configuration in which the first lens group Gr1 to the seventh lens group Gr7 are arranged in order from the object side to the image plane side. The aperture diaphragm St is located on the object side of the third lens group Gr3. The third lens group Gr3 and the fourth lens group Gr4 constitute the intermediate lens group Grm. The fifth lens group Gr5 to the seventh lens group Gr7 constitute the rear lens group Grr. For example, a flare cutter whose diameter changes during zooming may be placed on the object side (21st surface) of the fourth lens group Gr4 to improve peripheral optical performance.

[0163] The first lens group Gr1 has a positive refractive power. The first lens group Gr1 consists of lenses L11 to L13 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L11 corresponds to lens L1i that satisfies the above condition (5). Lens L11 also corresponds to negative lens L1n that satisfies the above condition (8). Lens L12 corresponds to positive lens L1p that satisfies the above condition (7).

[0164] The second lens group Gr2 has a negative refractive power. The second lens group Gr2 consists of lenses L21 to L25 in order from the object side toward the image plane side. The lens L24 corresponds to a positive lens L2p that satisfies the above conditional expression (6).

[0165] The third lens group Gr3 has a positive refractive power. The third lens group Gr3 consists of lenses L31 to L33 in order from the object side toward the image plane side. The lens L31 corresponds to a positive lens Lmp_asp on which an aspherical surface is formed. The lens L32 corresponds to a positive lens Lmp that satisfies the above conditional expression (9).

[0166] The fourth lens group Gr4 has a positive refractive power. The fourth lens group Gr4 consists of lenses L41 to L45 in order from the object side toward the image plane side. The lens L43 corresponds to a positive lens Lmp that satisfies the above conditional expression (9).

[0167] The fifth lens group Gr5 has a negative refractive power. The fifth lens group Gr5 consists of the lens L51. The fifth lens group Gr5 is a focus lens group that corresponds to the negative lens group Grrn in the rear lens group Grr.

[0168] The sixth lens group Gr6 has a positive refractive power. The sixth lens group Gr6 consists of the lens L61. The sixth lens group Gr6 is a focus lens group that corresponds to the positive lens group Grrp in the rear lens group Grr.

[0169] The seventh lens group Gr7 has a negative refractive power. The seventh lens group Gr7 consists of the lens L71 and the lens L72 in order from the object side toward the image plane side. The lens L72 corresponds to a lens Lrr that satisfies the above conditional expression (10).

[0170] When zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group Gr1 moves toward the object side with respect to the image plane IMG, and each of the first lens group Gr1 to the sixth lens group Gr6 moves so that the interval between adjacent lens groups changes.

[0171] When the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, focusing is achieved by the fifth lens group Gr5 and the sixth lens group Gr6 moving along the optical axis on different trajectories. Also, when the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, focusing is achieved by the fifth lens group Gr5 moving toward the image plane.

[0172] With the above configuration, a zoom lens has been realized that is compact and lightweight, yet possesses a large aperture and high optical performance, while simultaneously suppressing performance fluctuations with shooting distance and achieving a high maximum magnification.

[0173] [Table 21]

[0174] [Table 22]

[0175] [Table 23]

[0176] [Table 24]

[0177] [Table 25]

[0178] Figure 54 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Figure 55 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 at the intermediate position and when focused at infinity. Figure 56 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. Figure 57 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 at the wide-angle end and when focused at close range. Figure 58 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 at the intermediate position and when focused at close range. Figure 59 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 at the telephoto end and when focused at close range. Figure 60 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Figure 61 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 at the intermediate position and when focused at infinity. Figure 62 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. Figure 63 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 at the wide-angle end and when focused at close range. Figure 64 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 at the intermediate position and when focused at close range. Figure 65 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 at the telephoto end and when focused at close range.

[0179] As can be seen from each aberration diagram, the zoom lens 5 according to Example 5 has good correction of various aberrations and excellent imaging performance.

[0180] [Example 6] Table 26 shows the basic lens data for the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 shown in Figure 66. Table 27 shows the values ​​for the overall focal length f, F-number, overall angle of view 2ω, image height Y, and optical length L for the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6. Table 28 shows the data for the surface spacing that is variable during zooming and focusing in the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6. Also, Table 28 shows the value of the magnification ratio β for the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6. Note that Table 27 shows the values ​​for the wide-angle end (Wide), intermediate position (Mid), and telephoto end (Tele) when the object distance (d0) is at infinity. Table 28 shows the values ​​for the wide-angle end (Wide), intermediate position (Mid), and telephoto end (Tele) when the object distance (d0) is at infinity and when it is at close range. Table 29 shows the values ​​of the coefficient representing the shape of the aspherical surface in the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6. Table 30 shows the starting surface and focal length (in mm) of each lens group of the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6.

[0181] The zoom lens 6 according to Embodiment 6 has a configuration in which the first lens group Gr1 to the fifth lens group Gr5 are arranged sequentially from the object side toward the image plane side. The aperture diaphragm St is located on the object side of the third lens group Gr3. The third lens group Gr3 constitutes the intermediate lens group Grm. The fourth lens group Gr4 and the fifth lens group Gr5 constitute the rear lens group Grr.

[0182] The first lens group Gr1 has a positive refractive power. The first lens group Gr1 consists of lenses L11 to L13 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L11 corresponds to lens L1i that satisfies the above condition (5). Lens L11 also corresponds to negative lens L1n that satisfies the above condition (8). Lens L12 corresponds to positive lens L1p that satisfies the above condition (7).

[0183] The second lens group Gr2 has negative refractive power. The second lens group Gr2 consists of lenses L21 to L25 in order from the object side to the image plane side. Lens L24 corresponds to the positive lens L2p that satisfies the above condition (6).

[0184] The third lens group Gr3 has a positive refractive power. The third lens group Gr3 is composed of lenses L31 to L38 in order from the object side to the image plane side. The lens L32 corresponds to a positive lens Lmp_asp on which an aspherical surface is formed. The lens L36 corresponds to a positive lens Lmp that satisfies the above conditional expression (9).

[0185] The fourth lens group Gr4 has a negative refractive power. The fourth lens group Gr4 is composed of a lens L41. The fourth lens group Gr4 is a focus lens group corresponding to a negative lens group Grrn in the rear lens group Grr.

[0186] The fifth lens group Gr5 has a positive refractive power. The fifth lens group Gr5 is composed of a lens L51. The fifth lens group Gr5 is a focus lens group corresponding to a positive lens group Grrp in the rear lens group Grr.

[0187] When zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group Gr1 moves toward the object side with respect to the image plane IMG, and each of the first lens group Gr1 to the fifth lens group Gr5 moves so that the interval between adjacent lens groups changes.

[0188] When the object distance changes from infinity to a short distance, focusing is performed by the fourth lens group Gr4 and the fifth lens group Gr5 moving in the optical axis direction along different trajectories from each other. Also, when the object distance changes from infinity to a short distance, focusing is performed by the fourth lens group Gr4 moving toward the image plane side.

[0189] With the above configuration, a zoom lens is realized that is small and lightweight, has a large aperture and high optical performance, suppresses performance fluctuations due to the shooting distance, and has a high maximum shooting magnification.

[0190]

Table 26

[0191] [Table 27]

[0192] [Table 28]

[0193] [Table 29]

[0194] [Table 30]

[0195] Figure 67 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Figure 68 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 at the intermediate position and when focused at infinity. Figure 69 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. Figure 70 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 at the wide-angle end and when focused at close range. Figure 71 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 at the intermediate position and when focused at close range. Figure 72 shows the longitudinal aberration of the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 at the telephoto end and when focused at close range. Figure 73 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Figure 74 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 at the intermediate position and when focused at infinity. Figure 75 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 at the telephoto end and when focused at infinity. Figure 76 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 at the wide-angle end and when focused at close range. Figure 77 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 at the intermediate position and when focused at close range. Figure 78 shows the lateral aberration of the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 at the telephoto end and when focused at close range.

[0196] As can be seen from each aberration diagram, the zoom lens 6 according to Example 6 has good correction of various aberrations and excellent imaging performance.

[0197] [Other numerical data for each example] Tables 31 to 34 show the values ​​for each of the above-mentioned conditional expressions, etc., summarized for each example. As can be seen from Tables 31 to 34, the values ​​for each example for each conditional expression fall within the specified numerical range.

[0198] [Table 31]

[0199] [Table 32]

[0200] [Table 33]

[0201] [Table 34]

[0202] <5. Application Examples> [5.1 First Application Example] The technology disclosed herein can be applied to a variety of products. For example, the technology disclosed herein may be implemented as a device mounted on any type of mobile vehicle, such as automobiles, electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, personal mobility devices, airplanes, drones, ships, robots, construction machinery, or agricultural machinery (tractors).

[0203] Figure 80 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a vehicle control system 7000, which is an example of a mobile control system to which the technology described herein can be applied. The vehicle control system 7000 comprises a plurality of electronic control units connected via a communication network 7010. In the example shown in Figure 80, the vehicle control system 7000 comprises a drive system control unit 7100, a body system control unit 7200, a battery control unit 7300, an external information detection unit 7400, an internal information detection unit 7500, and an integrated control unit 7600. The communication network 7010 connecting these plurality of control units may be an in-vehicle communication network conforming to any standard such as CAN (Controller Area Network), LIN (Local Interconnect Network), LAN (Local Area Network), or FlexRay®.

[0204] Each control unit comprises a microcomputer that performs calculations according to various programs, a storage unit that stores programs executed by the microcomputer or parameters used in various calculations, and a drive circuit that drives various controlled devices. Each control unit is equipped with a network interface for communication with other control units via the communication network 7010, and a communication interface for communication with devices or sensors inside or outside the vehicle via wired or wireless communication. Figure 80 illustrates the functional configuration of the integrated control unit 7600, which includes a microcomputer 7610, a general-purpose communication interface 7620, a dedicated communication interface 7630, a positioning unit 7640, a beacon receiver 7650, an in-vehicle equipment interface 7660, an audio / image output unit 7670, an in-vehicle network interface 7680, and a storage unit 7690. Other control units similarly include a microcomputer, a communication interface, and a storage unit.

[0205] The drivetrain control unit 7100 controls the operation of devices related to the vehicle's drivetrain according to various programs. For example, the drivetrain control unit 7100 functions as a control device for generating driving force for the vehicle, such as an internal combustion engine or a drive motor; a driving force transmission mechanism for transmitting driving force to the wheels; a steering mechanism for adjusting the steering angle of the vehicle; and a braking device for generating braking force for the vehicle. The drivetrain control unit 7100 may also function as a control device such as ABS (Antilock Brake System) or ESC (Electronic Stability Control).

[0206] A vehicle state detection unit 7110 is connected to the drivetrain control unit 7100. The vehicle state detection unit 7110 includes, for example, a gyro sensor for detecting the angular velocity of the vehicle's axial rotational motion, an acceleration sensor for detecting the vehicle's acceleration, or at least one of the sensors for detecting the amount of operation of the accelerator pedal, the amount of operation of the brake pedal, the steering angle of the steering wheel, the engine speed, or the rotational speed of the wheels. The drivetrain control unit 7100 performs calculations using signals input from the vehicle state detection unit 7110 and controls the internal combustion engine, drive motor, electric power steering system, brake system, etc.

[0207] The body system control unit 7200 controls the operation of various devices mounted on the vehicle body according to various programs. For example, the body system control unit 7200 functions as a control device for a keyless entry system, a smart key system, a power window system, or various lamps such as headlights, reverse lights, brake lights, turn signals, or fog lights. In this case, the body system control unit 7200 may receive radio waves transmitted from a portable device that replaces a key or signals from various switches. The body system control unit 7200 receives these radio waves or signals and controls the vehicle's door lock system, power window system, lamps, etc.

[0208] The battery control unit 7300 controls the secondary battery 7310, which is the power source for the drive motor, according to various programs. For example, the battery control unit 7300 receives information such as battery temperature, battery output voltage, or remaining battery capacity from the battery device equipped with the secondary battery 7310. The battery control unit 7300 uses these signals to perform calculations and controls the temperature of the secondary battery 7310 or the cooling device provided in the battery device.

[0209] The external information detection unit 7400 detects information from outside the vehicle equipped with the vehicle control system 7000. For example, at least one of the imaging unit 7410 and the external information detection unit 7420 is connected to the external information detection unit 7400. The imaging unit 7410 includes at least one of the following: a ToF (Time Of Flight) camera, a stereo camera, a monocular camera, an infrared camera, and other cameras. The external information detection unit 7420 includes at least one of the following: an environmental sensor for detecting the current weather or climate, or an ambient information detection sensor for detecting other vehicles, obstacles, or pedestrians around the vehicle equipped with the vehicle control system 7000.

[0210] The environmental sensor may be at least one of the following: a raindrop sensor for detecting rain, a fog sensor for detecting fog, a sunshine sensor for detecting the degree of sunlight, and a snow sensor for detecting snowfall. The ambient information detection sensor may be at least one of the following: an ultrasonic sensor, a radar device, and a LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging, Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging) device. These imaging unit 7410 and external information detection unit 7420 may be provided as independent sensors or devices, or as a device in which multiple sensors or devices are integrated.

[0211] Here, Figure 81 shows an example of the installation location of the imaging unit 7410 and the external information detection unit 7420. The imaging units 7910, 7912, 7914, 7916, and 7918 are installed, for example, at least one of the following locations on the vehicle 7900: the front nose, side mirrors, rear bumper, back door, and the upper part of the windshield inside the passenger compartment. The imaging unit 7910 installed on the front nose and the imaging unit 7918 installed on the upper part of the windshield inside the passenger compartment mainly acquire images of the front of the vehicle 7900. The imaging units 7912 and 7914 installed on the side mirrors mainly acquire images of the sides of the vehicle 7900. The imaging unit 7916 installed on the rear bumper or back door mainly acquires images of the rear of the vehicle 7900. The imaging unit 7918 installed on the upper part of the windshield inside the passenger compartment is mainly used for detecting preceding vehicles, pedestrians, obstacles, traffic lights, traffic signs, or lanes.

[0212] Figure 81 shows an example of the imaging range of each imaging unit 7910, 7912, 7914, and 7916. Imaging range a shows the imaging range of imaging unit 7910 located on the front nose, imaging ranges b and c show the imaging ranges of imaging units 7912 and 7914 located on the side mirrors, respectively, and imaging range d shows the imaging range of imaging unit 7916 located on the rear bumper or back door. For example, by superimposing the image data captured by imaging units 7910, 7912, 7914, and 7916, an overhead view image of the vehicle 7900 can be obtained.

[0213] The external information detection units 7920, 7922, 7924, 7926, 7928, and 7930, which are installed on the front, rear, sides, corners, and the upper part of the windshield inside the vehicle 7900, may be, for example, ultrasonic sensors or radar devices. The external information detection units 7920, 7926, and 7930, which are installed on the front nose, rear bumper, back door, and the upper part of the windshield inside the vehicle 7900, may be, for example, LIDAR devices. These external information detection units 7920 to 7930 are mainly used to detect preceding vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles.

[0214] Returning to Figure 80, the explanation continues. The external information detection unit 7400 causes the imaging unit 7410 to capture images of the area outside the vehicle and receives the captured image data. The external information detection unit 7400 also receives detection information from the connected external information detection unit 7420. If the external information detection unit 7420 is an ultrasonic sensor, radar device, or LIDAR device, the external information detection unit 7400 emits ultrasonic waves or electromagnetic waves and receives information on the received reflected waves. Based on the received information, the external information detection unit 7400 may perform object detection processing such as detecting people, vehicles, obstacles, signs, or characters on the road surface, or distance detection processing. Based on the received information, the external information detection unit 7400 may perform environmental recognition processing to recognize rainfall, fog, or road surface conditions. Based on the received information, the external information detection unit 7400 may calculate the distance to an object outside the vehicle.

[0215] Furthermore, the external information detection unit 7400 may perform image recognition processing or distance detection processing to recognize people, vehicles, obstacles, signs, or characters on the road surface based on the received image data. The external information detection unit 7400 may perform distortion correction or alignment processing on the received image data, and may also synthesize image data captured by different imaging units 7410 to generate an overhead view image or a panoramic image. The external information detection unit 7400 may also perform viewpoint transformation processing using image data captured by different imaging units 7410.

[0216] The in-vehicle information detection unit 7500 detects information inside the vehicle. The in-vehicle information detection unit 7500 is connected to, for example, a driver status detection unit 7510 that detects the driver's state. The driver status detection unit 7510 may include a camera that images the driver, a biosensor that detects the driver's biometric information, or a microphone that collects sounds inside the vehicle. The biosensor is installed, for example, on the seat or steering wheel and detects the biometric information of a passenger sitting in the seat or a driver holding the steering wheel. Based on the detection information input from the driver status detection unit 7510, the in-vehicle information detection unit 7500 may calculate the driver's level of fatigue or concentration, or determine whether the driver is dozing off. The in-vehicle information detection unit 7500 may perform processing such as noise cancellation on the collected audio signals.

[0217] The integrated control unit 7600 controls the overall operation of the vehicle control system 7000 according to various programs. An input unit 7800 is connected to the integrated control unit 7600. The input unit 7800 is implemented by a device that can be operated by the passenger, such as a touch panel, buttons, a microphone, a switch, or a lever. The integrated control unit 7600 may also receive data obtained by voice recognition of voice input from the microphone. The input unit 7800 may be a remote control device using infrared or other radio waves, or an external device such as a mobile phone or PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) that is compatible with the operation of the vehicle control system 7000. The input unit 7800 may be a camera, in which case the passenger can input information by gesture. Alternatively, data obtained by detecting the movement of a wearable device worn by the passenger may be input. Furthermore, the input unit 7800 may include, for example, an input control circuit that generates an input signal based on the information input by the passenger using the above input unit 7800 and outputs it to the integrated control unit 7600. Passengers and others can input various data or instruct the vehicle control system 7000 to perform processing operations by operating this input unit 7800.

[0218] The memory unit 7690 may include a ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing various programs executed by a microcomputer, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) for storing various parameters, calculation results, or sensor values. The memory unit 7690 may also be implemented using a magnetic storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a semiconductor storage device, an optical storage device, or a magneto-optical storage device.

[0219] The general-purpose communication interface 7620 is a general-purpose communication interface that mediates communication between the vehicle and various devices present in the external environment 7750. The general-purpose communication interface 7620 may implement cellular communication protocols such as GSM (Global System of Mobile communications), WiMAX (registered trademark), LTE (registered trademark) (Long Term Evolution), or LTE-A (LTE-Advanced), or other wireless communication protocols such as wireless LAN (also known as Wi-Fi (registered trademark)) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). The general-purpose communication interface 7620 may connect to devices (e.g., application servers or control servers) located on an external network (e.g., the Internet, a cloud network, or a carrier-specific network) via, for example, a base station or access point. The general-purpose communication interface 7620 may also connect to terminals located near the vehicle (e.g., terminals for drivers, pedestrians, or shops, or MTC (Machine Type Communication) terminals) using, for example, P2P (Peer To Peer) technology.

[0220] The Dedicated Communication I / F 7630 is a communication interface that supports communication protocols developed for use in vehicles. The Dedicated Communication I / F 7630 may implement standard protocols such as WAVE (Wireless Access in Vehicle Environment), DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communications), or cellular communication protocols, which are combinations of lower-layer IEEE 802.11p and upper-layer IEEE 1609. The Dedicated Communication I / F 7630 typically performs V2X communication, a concept that includes one or more of the following: vehicle-to-vehicle communication, vehicle-to-infrastructure communication, vehicle-to-home communication, and vehicle-to-pedestrian communication.

[0221] The positioning unit 7640 performs positioning by receiving GNSS signals from GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) satellites (for example, GPS signals from GPS (Global Positioning System) satellites) and generates location information including the vehicle's latitude, longitude, and altitude. The positioning unit 7640 may also determine its current location by exchanging signals with a wireless access point, or it may acquire location information from a terminal such as a mobile phone, PHS, or smartphone that has a positioning function.

[0222] The beacon receiver 7650 receives radio waves or electromagnetic waves transmitted from, for example, a radio station installed on a road, and obtains information such as the current location, traffic congestion, road closures, or travel time. The functions of the beacon receiver 7650 may also be included in the dedicated communication interface 7630 described above.

[0223] The in-vehicle equipment interface (I / F) 7660 is a communication interface that mediates connections between the microcomputer 7610 and various in-vehicle equipment 7760 located inside the vehicle. The in-vehicle equipment interface (I / F) 7660 may establish a wireless connection using wireless communication protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, NFC (Near Field Communication), or WUSB (Wireless USB). The in-vehicle equipment interface (I / F) 7660 may also establish a wired connection such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), HDMI® (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), or MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) via connection terminals (and cables if necessary) not shown. The in-vehicle equipment 7760 may include, for example, at least one of the following: a mobile device or wearable device owned by a passenger, or information equipment brought into or installed in the vehicle. The in-vehicle equipment 7760 may also include a navigation device that performs route searching to any destination. The in-vehicle equipment interface 7660 exchanges control signals or data signals with these in-vehicle equipment units 7760.

[0224] The in-vehicle network interface 7680 is an interface that mediates communication between the microcomputer 7610 and the communication network 7010. The in-vehicle network interface 7680 transmits and receives signals and other data in accordance with a predetermined protocol supported by the communication network 7010.

[0225] The microcomputer 7610 of the integrated control unit 7600 controls the vehicle control system 7000 according to various programs based on information acquired via at least one of the general-purpose communication I / F 7620, dedicated communication I / F 7630, positioning unit 7640, beacon receiver 7650, in-vehicle equipment I / F 7660, and in-vehicle network I / F 7680. For example, the microcomputer 7610 may calculate control target values ​​for the drive force generator, steering mechanism, or braking device based on acquired in-vehicle and out-of-vehicle information and output control commands to the drive system control unit 7100. For example, the microcomputer 7610 may perform coordinated control aimed at realizing ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) functions, including vehicle collision avoidance or impact mitigation, following driving based on distance between vehicles, maintaining vehicle speed, vehicle collision warning, or vehicle lane departure warning. Furthermore, the microcomputer 7610 may perform cooperative control for purposes such as autonomous driving, where the vehicle drives autonomously without driver intervention, by controlling the drive force generating device, steering mechanism, or braking device, etc., based on the acquired information about the vehicle's surroundings.

[0226] The microcomputer 7610 may generate three-dimensional distance information between the vehicle and surrounding structures, people, and other objects based on information acquired via at least one of the general-purpose communication I / F 7620, dedicated communication I / F 7630, positioning unit 7640, beacon receiver 7650, in-vehicle equipment I / F 7660, and in-vehicle network I / F 7680, and create local map information including surrounding information of the vehicle's current location. Furthermore, the microcomputer 7610 may predict dangers such as vehicle collision, proximity of pedestrians, or entry into a closed road based on the acquired information, and generate a warning signal. The warning signal may, for example, be a signal to generate a warning sound or illuminate a warning lamp.

[0227] The audio-image output unit 7670 transmits at least one of audio and image output signals to an output device capable of visually or audibly notifying the vehicle's occupants or those outside the vehicle. In the example in Figure 80, the output devices are exemplified as an audio speaker 7710, a display unit 7720, and an instrument panel 7730. The display unit 7720 may include, for example, at least one of an onboard display and a head-up display. The display unit 7720 may also have an AR (Augmented Reality) display function. The output device may be other devices besides these, such as headphones, wearable devices such as glasses-type displays worn by occupants, projectors, or lamps. If the output device is a display device, the display device visually displays the results obtained from various processes performed by the microcomputer 7610 or information received from other control units in various formats such as text, images, tables, and graphs. If the output device is an audio output device, the audio output device converts the audio signal, consisting of reproduced audio data or sound data, into an analog signal and outputs it audibly.

[0228] In the example shown in Figure 80, at least two control units connected via the communication network 7010 may be integrated into a single control unit. Alternatively, each control unit may be composed of multiple control units. Furthermore, the vehicle control system 7000 may include other control units not shown. Also, in the above description, some or all of the functions performed by one control unit may be assigned to other control units. In other words, as long as information is transmitted and received via the communication network 7010, predetermined calculation processing may be performed by any of the control units. Similarly, a sensor or device connected to one control unit may be connected to another control unit, and multiple control units may transmit and receive detection information to each other via the communication network 7010.

[0229] In the vehicle control system 7000 described above, the zoom lens and imaging device of this disclosure can be applied to the imaging unit 7410 and the imaging units 7910, 7912, 7914, 7916, and 7918.

[0230] [5.2 Second Application Example] The technology relating to this disclosure can be applied to medical imaging systems. Medical imaging systems are medical systems that use imaging technology, such as endoscope systems and microscope systems.

[0231] [Endoscopy System] An example of an endoscopic system will be explained using Figures 82 and 83. Figure 82 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of an endoscopic system 5000 to which the technology relating to this disclosure can be applied. Figure 83 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an endoscope 5001 and a CCU (Camera Control Unit) 5039. Figure 82 illustrates a surgeon (e.g., a physician) 5067, who is a participant in the surgery, performing surgery on a patient 5071 on a patient bed 5069 using the endoscopic system 5000. As shown in Figure 82, the endoscopic system 5000 consists of an endoscope 5001, which is a medical imaging device, a CCU 5039, a light source device 5043, a recording device 5053, an output device 5055, and a support device 5027 that supports the endoscope 5001.

[0232] In endoscopic surgery, an insertion aid called a trocca 5025 is inserted into the patient 5071. Then, via the trocca 5025, the scope 5003 connected to the endoscope 5001 and surgical instruments 5021 are inserted into the patient 5071's body. Surgical instruments 5021 include, for example, energy devices such as electrosurgical units or forceps.

[0233] Surgical images, which are medical images of the inside of patient 5071 taken by endoscope 5001, are displayed on display device 5041. The surgeon 5067 performs the procedure on the surgical target using surgical instruments 5021 while viewing the surgical images displayed on display device 5041. Note that the medical images are not limited to surgical images; they may also be diagnostic images taken during diagnosis.

[0234] [Endoscopy] The endoscope 5001 is an imaging unit that images the inside of the patient 5071's body. For example, as shown in Figure 83, it is a camera 5005 that includes a focusing optical system 50051 that focuses incident light, a zoom optical system 50052 that changes the focal length of the imaging unit to enable optical zoom, a focusing optical system 50053 that changes the focal length of the imaging unit to enable focus adjustment, and a light-receiving element 50054. The endoscope 5001 generates a pixel signal by focusing light onto the light-receiving element 50054 via the connected scope 5003 and outputs the pixel signal to the CCU 5039 through a transmission system. The scope 5003 is an insertion unit that has an objective lens at its tip and guides light from the connected light source device 5043 into the patient 5071's body. The scope 5003 is, for example, a rigid scope in the case of a rigid endoscope, or a flexible scope in the case of a flexible endoscope. The scope 5003 may be a straight-viewing endoscope or an oblique-viewing endoscope. Furthermore, the pixel signal can be any signal based on the signal output from the pixel, such as a RAW signal or an image signal. Alternatively, the transmission system connecting the endoscope 5001 and the CCU 5039 may be equipped with memory to store parameters related to the endoscope 5001 and the CCU 5039. The memory may be located, for example, at the connection point of the transmission system or on the cable. For example, the factory settings of the endoscope 5001 and parameters that change during power-up may be stored in the transmission system's memory, and the operation of the endoscope may be modified based on the parameters read from the memory. The endoscope and transmission system may also be referred to as a set. The photodetector 50054 is a sensor that converts received light into a pixel signal, and is, for example, a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) type image sensor. Preferably, the photodetector 50054 is a color image sensor with a Bayer array. Furthermore, the light-receiving element 50054 is preferably an image sensor having a number of pixels corresponding to a resolution of, for example, 4K (3840 horizontal pixels × 2160 vertical pixels), 8K (7680 horizontal pixels × 4320 vertical pixels), or square 4K (3840 or more horizontal pixels × 3840 or more vertical pixels). The light-receiving element 50054 may be a single sensor chip or multiple sensor chips.For example, a prism may be provided to separate the incident light into predetermined wavelength bands, and each wavelength band may be imaged by a different photodetector. Alternatively, multiple photodetectors may be provided for stereoscopic viewing. The photodetector 50054 may be a sensor containing an image processing circuit within a chip structure, or it may be a Time of Flight (ToF) sensor. The transmission system may be, for example, an optical fiber cable or wireless transmission. Wireless transmission is only required if the pixel signals generated by the endoscope 5001 can be transmitted. For example, the endoscope 5001 and the CCU 5039 may be wirelessly connected, or the endoscope 5001 and the CCU 5039 may be connected via a base station in the operating room. In this case, the endoscope 5001 may simultaneously transmit not only the pixel signals but also information related to the pixel signals (e.g., pixel signal processing priority and synchronization signals). The endoscope may integrate the scope and camera, or a photodetector may be provided at the tip of the scope.

[0235] [CCU (Camera Control Unit)] The CCU5039 is a control device that comprehensively controls the connected endoscope 5001 and light source device 5043. For example, as shown in Figure 83, it is an information processing device having an FPGA 50391, CPU 50392, RAM 50393, ROM 50394, GPU 50395, and I / F 50396. The CCU5039 may also comprehensively control the connected display device 5041, recording device 5053, and output device 5055. For example, the CCU5039 controls the irradiation timing, irradiation intensity, and type of light source of the light source device 5043. The CCU5039 also performs image processing such as development processing (e.g., demosaicing) and correction processing on the pixel signals output from the endoscope 5001, and outputs the processed pixel signals (e.g., images) to external devices such as the display device 5041. The CCU5039 also transmits control signals to the endoscope 5001 to control its operation. The control signal is, for example, information regarding imaging conditions such as the magnification and focal length of the imaging unit. The CCU 5039 may also have an image downconversion function and be configured to simultaneously output a high-resolution (e.g., 4K) image to the display device 5041 and a low-resolution (e.g., HD) image to the recording device 5053.

[0236] Furthermore, the CCU5039 may be connected to external devices (e.g., recording devices, display devices, output devices, support devices) via an IP converter that converts signals to a predetermined communication protocol (e.g., IP (Internet Protocol)). The connection between the IP converter and the external devices may consist of a wired network, or some or all of the network may be constructed as a wireless network. For example, the IP converter on the CCU5039 side may have a wireless communication function and transmit the received video to an IP switcher or output-side IP converter via a wireless communication network such as a fifth-generation mobile communication system (5G) or a sixth-generation mobile communication system (6G).

[0237] [Light source device] The light source device 5043 is a device capable of irradiating light in a predetermined wavelength band, and includes, for example, a plurality of light sources and a light source optical system that guides the light from the plurality of light sources. The light sources are, for example, xenon lamps, LED light sources, and LD light sources. The light source device 5043 has, for example, LED light sources corresponding to each of the three primary colors R, G, and B, and emits white light by controlling the output intensity and output timing of each light source. In addition, the light source device 5043 may have a light source capable of irradiating special light used for special light observation, separate from the light source that irradiates normal light used for normal light observation. Special light is light in a predetermined wavelength band different from the normal light used for normal light observation, and includes, for example, near-infrared light (light with a wavelength of 760 nm or more), infrared light, blue light, and ultraviolet light. Normal light is, for example, white light or green light. In narrow-band light observation, a type of special light observation, by alternately irradiating with blue light and green light, it is possible to take high-contrast images of predetermined tissues such as blood vessels on the surface of mucous membranes by utilizing the wavelength dependence of light absorption in body tissues. Furthermore, in fluorescence observation, a type of special light observation, excitation light is irradiated to excite a drug injected into body tissue, and a fluorescence image is obtained by receiving the fluorescence emitted by the body tissue or the labeling drug. This makes it easier for the operator to visualize body tissues and other areas that are difficult to see with normal light. For example, in fluorescence observation using infrared light, infrared light having an excitation wavelength band is irradiated onto a drug such as indocyanine green (ICG) injected into body tissue, and the structure of the body tissue and the affected area can be made easier to visualize by receiving the fluorescence of the drug. In addition, in fluorescence observation, a drug that is excited by special light in the blue wavelength band and emits fluorescence in the red wavelength band (e.g., 5-ALA) may be used. The type of irradiation light of the light source device 5043 is set by the control of the CCU 5039. The CCU 5039 may have a mode in which normal light observation and special light observation are performed alternately by controlling the light source device 5043 and the endoscope 5001. In this case, it is preferable that information based on the pixel signal obtained in special light observation is superimposed on the pixel signal obtained in normal light observation. Furthermore, special light observation may include infrared light observation, which involves irradiating with infrared light to view areas deeper than the organ surface, or multispectral observation utilizing hyperspectral spectroscopy. In addition, photodynamic therapy may be combined with this method.

[0238] [Recording device] The recording device 5053 is a device that records pixel signals (e.g., images) acquired from the CCU 5039, and is, for example, a recorder. The recording device 5053 records the images acquired from the CCU 5039 onto an HDD, SSD, or optical disc. The recording device 5053 may be connected to the hospital network and made accessible from equipment outside the operating room. The recording device 5053 may also have an image down-conversion or up-conversion function.

[0239] [Display device] The display device 5041 is a device capable of displaying images, such as a display monitor. The display device 5041 displays a display image based on pixel signals acquired from the CCU 5039. The display device 5041 may also function as an input device that enables eye-tracking, voice recognition, and gesture-based instruction input by equipping it with a camera and microphone.

[0240] [Output device] The output device 5055 is a device that outputs information acquired from the CCU 5039, and is, for example, a printer. The output device 5055 prints a print image on paper based on the pixel signals acquired from the CCU 5039.

[0241] [Support device] The support device 5027 is a multi-joint arm comprising a base portion 5029 having an arm control device 5045, an arm portion 5031 extending from the base portion 5029, and a holding portion 5032 attached to the tip of the arm portion 5031. The arm control device 5045 is composed of a processor such as a CPU and controls the driving of the arm portion 5031 by operating according to a predetermined program. The support device 5027 controls parameters such as the length of each link 5035 constituting the arm portion 5031 and the rotation angle and torque of each joint 5033 by the arm control device 5045, thereby controlling, for example, the position and orientation of the endoscope 5001 held by the holding portion 5032. This allows the endoscope 5001 to be changed to a desired position or orientation, enabling the scope 5003 to be inserted into the patient 5071 and changing the observation area inside the body. The support device 5027 functions as an endoscope support arm that supports the endoscope 5001 during surgery. This allows the support device 5027 to act as a substitute for the scopist, who is an assistant holding the endoscope 5001. The support device 5027 may also be a device that supports the microscope device 5301, which will be described later, and can also be called a medical support arm. The support device 5027 may be controlled autonomously by the arm control device 5045, or it may be controlled by the arm control device 5045 based on user input. For example, the control method may be a master-slave system in which the support device 5027, acting as a slave device (replica device) that is a patient cart, is controlled based on the movement of the master device (primary device), which is the operator console at the user's location. Furthermore, the support device 5027 may be controlled remotely from outside the operating room.

[0242] The above describes an example of an endoscope system 5000 to which the technology described herein may be applied. For example, the technology described herein may be applied to a microscope system.

[0243] [Microscope System] Figure 84 shows an example of a schematic configuration of a microsurgical system to which the technology described herein may be applied. In the following description, components similar to those in the endoscopic system 5000 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0244] Figure 84 schematically shows a surgeon 5067 performing surgery on patient 5071 on a patient bed 5069 using a microsurgical system 5300. For simplicity, Figure 84 omits the cart 5037 from the configuration of the microsurgical system 5300, and the microscope device 5301, which replaces the endoscope 5001, is shown in a simplified form. However, in this description, the microscope device 5301 may refer to the microscope unit 5303 located at the tip of the link 5035, or it may refer to the entire configuration including the microscope unit 5303 and the support device 5027.

[0245] As shown in Figure 84, during surgery, the image of the surgical area captured by the microscope device 5301 is displayed on a display device 5041 installed in the operating room using the microsurgery system 5300. The display device 5041 is positioned opposite the surgeon 5067, and the surgeon 5067 observes the surgical area through the image displayed on the display device 5041 and performs various procedures on the surgical area, such as excision of the affected area. The microsurgery system is used, for example, in ophthalmic surgery and neurosurgery.

[0246] Examples of endoscopic systems 5000 and microsurgical systems 5300 to which the technology relating to this disclosure may be applied have been described above. However, the systems to which the technology relating to this disclosure may be applied are not limited to these examples. For example, the support device 5027 may support other observation devices or surgical instruments at its tip in place of the endoscope 5001 or the microscope unit 5303. Such other observation devices may include, for example, forceps, insufflation tubes for pneumoperitoneum, or energy treatment instruments for tissue incision or blood vessel sealing by cauterization. By supporting these observation devices and surgical instruments with the support device, their position can be fixed more stably than when medical staff support them manually, and the burden on medical staff can be reduced. The technology relating to this disclosure may also be applied to support devices that support components other than the microscope unit.

[0247] The technology relating to this disclosure can be suitably applied to the camera 5005 among the configurations described above. In particular, the zoom lens of this disclosure can be suitably applied to at least some of the optical systems in the camera 5005, including the condensing optical system 50051, the zoom optical system 50052, and the focusing optical system 50053.

[0248] <6. Other Embodiments> The technology described herein is not limited to the above-described embodiment and examples, and various modifications are possible.

[0249] For example, the shapes and numerical values ​​of each part shown in the above embodiment and example are merely examples of how to implement this technology, and the technical scope of this technology should not be interpreted in a restrictive way based on these.

[0250] Furthermore, for example, the configuration may include a different number of lenses than those shown in the above embodiment and example. Moreover, the configuration may further include lenses that have substantially no refractive power.

[0251] For example, this technology can also take the following configuration. According to this technology with the following configuration, the configuration of each lens group has been optimized to achieve a small and lightweight design while possessing a large aperture and high optical performance, suppressing performance fluctuations with respect to shooting distance, and simultaneously achieving a high maximum magnification. As a result, it is possible to provide a zoom lens that is small and lightweight while possessing a large aperture and high optical performance, suppressing performance fluctuations with respect to shooting distance, and simultaneously achieving a high maximum magnification, as well as an imaging device equipped with such a zoom lens.

[0252] [1] Starting from the object side and moving towards the image plane side, A first lens group having positive refractive power, A second lens group having negative refractive power, An intermediate lens group having at least one positive lens group and having a positive refractive power as a whole, It consists of a rear lens group having a negative lens group and a positive lens group in order from the object side, When the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, the negative lens group and the positive lens group in the rear lens group move in the optical axis direction along different trajectories, and the negative lens group in the rear lens group moves toward the image plane, thereby performing focusing. When zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group moves toward the object relative to the image plane, and the first lens group, the second lens group, the intermediate lens group, and the rear lens group each move such that the spacing between adjacent lens groups changes along the optical axis. The aforementioned intermediate lens group has at least two negative lenses, The following conditions must be met: Zoom lens. -0.31≦(1-βrp_w 2 ) / [(1-βrn_w 2 )*βrp_w 2 ]≦0 …(1) however, βrn_w: Horizontal magnification of the negative lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. βrp_w: Lateral magnification of the positive lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Let's assume that. [2] Starting from the object side and moving towards the image plane side, A first lens group having positive refractive power, A second lens group having negative refractive power, An intermediate lens group having at least one positive lens group and having a positive refractive power as a whole, It consists of a rear lens group having a negative lens group and a positive lens group in order from the object side, When the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, the negative lens group and the positive lens group in the rear lens group move in the optical axis direction along different trajectories, and the negative lens group in the rear lens group moves toward the image plane, thereby performing focusing. When zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group moves toward the object relative to the image plane, and the first lens group, the second lens group, the intermediate lens group, and the rear lens group each move such that the spacing between adjacent lens groups changes along the optical axis. The first lens group has three lenses, The following conditions must be met: Zoom lens. -0.31≦(1-βrp_w 2 ) / [(1-βrn_w 2 )*βrp_w 2 ]≦0 …(1) however, βrn_w: Horizontal magnification of the negative lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. βrp_w: Lateral magnification of the positive lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Let's assume that. [3] The intermediate lens group has at least one lens group including the positive lens group, and during zooming, at least one lens group in the intermediate lens group moves relative to the image plane. The zoom lens described in [1] or [2] above. [4] The aforementioned intermediate lens group has two of the aforementioned positive lens groups. A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] to [3]. [5] The aforementioned intermediate lens group satisfies the following condition: A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] through [4]. 0.60 <fm_w / fw<1.60 ……(2) however, fw: Total focal length of the system at the wide-angle end fm_w: Focal length of the intermediate lens group at the wide-angle end Let's assume that. [6] The aforementioned intermediate lens group satisfies the following condition: A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] through [5]. 0.25 <fm_t / ft<0.70 ……(3) however, ft: Total focal length of the system at the telephoto end fm_t: Focal length of the intermediate lens group at the telephoto end Let's assume that. [7] The negative lens group in the aforementioned rear lens group is composed of a single lens. A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] through [6]. [8] The positive lens group in the aforementioned rear lens group is composed of single lenses. A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] through [7]. [9] Furthermore, the following conditions must be met: A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] through [8]. 0.2 <BF_w / fw≦1.2 ……(4) however, BF_w: Back focus at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity (distance from the image plane to the image plane of the rear lens group) Let's assume that.

[10] The first lens group has lenses that satisfy the following condition (5). A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] through [9]. nd_L1i / dL1i>0.50 ……(5) however, nd_L1i: Refractive index of the glass material of the lens in the first lens group that satisfies the above condition (5) with respect to the d line. d_L1i: The ratio (specific gravity) of the mass of the lens material in the first lens group that satisfies the above condition (5) at room temperature (15°C to 25°C) to the mass of the same volume of pure water at 4°C under a pressure of 101.325 kPa (standard atmospheric pressure). Let's assume that.

[11] The second lens group includes a positive lens that satisfies the following condition (6). A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] through

[10] . 1.955 <nd_L2p ……(6) however, nd_L2p: Refractive index of the positive lens in the second lens group that satisfies the above condition (6) with respect to the d line Let's assume that.

[12] The aforementioned intermediate lens group has a positive lens in which an aspherical surface with a partially negative refractive effect is formed. A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] through

[11] .

[13] The first lens group has a positive lens that satisfies the following condition (7). A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] through

[12] . θgF_L1p-(-0.001801*νd_L1p+0.648262)>0.005 ……(7) however, θgF_L1p: Partial dispersion ratio of the g-line and F-line of the positive lens in the first lens group that satisfies the above condition (7). νd_L1p: Abbe number for the d line of the positive lens in the first lens group that satisfies the above condition (7) Let's assume that.

[14] The first lens group has a negative lens that satisfies the following condition (8). A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] through

[13] . νd_L1n<23.0 ……(8) however, νd_L1n: Abbe number for the d line of the negative lens in the first lens group that satisfies the above condition (8) Let's assume that.

[15] The aforementioned intermediate lens group has a positive lens that satisfies the following condition (9). A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] through

[14] . θgF_Lmp-(-0.001801*νd_Lmp+0.648262)>0.045 ……(9) however, θgF_Lmp: Partial dispersion ratio of the g-line and F-line of the positive lens in the intermediate lens group that satisfies the condition equation (9). νd_Lmp: Abbe number for the d line of the positive lens in the intermediate lens group that satisfies the above condition (9) Let's assume that.

[16] The lens positioned closest to the image plane in the aforementioned rear lens group is a negative lens that satisfies the following condition (10). A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] through

[15] . 0.9<(r2_rr+r1_rr) / (r2_rr-r1_rr)<6.9 ……(10) however, r1_rr: Radius of curvature of the object-side surface of the lens located closest to the image plane in the rear lens group. r2_rr: Radius of curvature of the image-plane side surface of the lens located closest to the image plane in the rear lens group. Let's assume that.

[17] It includes a zoom lens and an image sensor that outputs an imaging signal corresponding to the optical image formed by the zoom lens, The aforementioned zoom lens is Starting from the object side and moving towards the image plane side, A first lens group having positive refractive power, A second lens group having negative refractive power, An intermediate lens group having at least one positive lens group and having a positive refractive power as a whole, It consists of a rear lens group having a negative lens group and a positive lens group in order from the object side, When the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, the negative lens group and the positive lens group in the rear lens group move in the optical axis direction along different trajectories, and the negative lens group in the rear lens group moves toward the image plane, thereby performing focusing. When zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group moves toward the object relative to the image plane, and the first lens group, the second lens group, the intermediate lens group, and the rear lens group each move such that the spacing between adjacent lens groups changes along the optical axis. The aforementioned intermediate lens group has at least two negative lenses, The following conditions must be met: Imaging device. -0.31≦(1-βrp_w 2 ) / [(1-βrn_w 2 )*βrp_w 2 ]≦0 …(1) however, βrn_w: Horizontal magnification of the negative lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. βrp_w: Lateral magnification of the positive lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Let's assume that.

[18] It includes a zoom lens and an image sensor that outputs an imaging signal corresponding to the optical image formed by the zoom lens, The aforementioned zoom lens is Starting from the object side and moving towards the image plane side, A first lens group having positive refractive power, A second lens group having negative refractive power, An intermediate lens group having at least one positive lens group and having a positive refractive power as a whole, It consists of a rear lens group having a negative lens group and a positive lens group in order from the object side, When the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, the negative lens group and the positive lens group in the rear lens group move in the optical axis direction along different trajectories, and the negative lens group in the rear lens group moves toward the image plane, thereby performing focusing. When zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group moves toward the object relative to the image plane, and the first lens group, the second lens group, the intermediate lens group, and the rear lens group each move such that the spacing between adjacent lens groups changes along the optical axis. The first lens group has three lenses, The following conditions must be met: Imaging device. -0.31≦(1-βrp_w 2 ) / [(1-βrn_w 2 )*βrp_w 2 ]≦0 …(1) however, βrn_w: Horizontal magnification of the negative lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. βrp_w: Lateral magnification of the positive lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Let's assume that.

[19] It also features lenses that have virtually no refractive power. A zoom lens as described in any one of the above [1] through

[16] .

[20] The zoom lens further comprises a lens that has substantially no refractive power. The imaging apparatus described in

[17] or

[18] above.

[0253] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-46233, filed with the Japan Patent Office on 23 March 2022, and all contents of that application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0254] Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications, combinations, subcombinations, and changes can be conceived depending on design requirements and other factors, and that these fall within the scope of the attached claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. Starting from the object side and moving towards the image plane side, A first lens group having positive refractive power, A second lens group having negative refractive power, An intermediate lens group having one or more lens groups including at least one positive lens group, and having a positive refractive power as a whole, It consists of a rear lens group having a negative lens group and a positive lens group in order from the object side, When the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, the negative lens group and the positive lens group in the rear lens group move in the optical axis direction along different trajectories, and the negative lens group in the rear lens group moves toward the image plane, thereby performing focusing. When zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group moves toward the object relative to the image plane, and the first lens group, the second lens group, the intermediate lens group, and the rear lens group each move along the optical axis such that the spacing between adjacent lens groups changes along the optical axis. The aforementioned intermediate lens group has at least two negative lenses, The following conditions must be met: Zoom lens. -0.31≦(1-βrp_w 2 ) / [(1-βrn_w 2 )*βrp_w 2 ]≦0 …(1) however, βrn_w: Lateral magnification of the negative lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. βrp_w: Lateral magnification of the positive lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Let's assume that.

2. The aforementioned intermediate lens group has two of the aforementioned positive lens groups. The zoom lens according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned intermediate lens group satisfies the following condition: The zoom lens according to claim 1. 0.60<fm_w / fw<1.60...(2) however, fw: Total focal length of the system at the wide-angle end fm_w: Focal length of the intermediate lens group at the wide-angle end Let's assume that.

4. The aforementioned intermediate lens group satisfies the following condition: The zoom lens according to claim 1. 0.25<fm_t / ft<0.70...(3) however, ft: Total focal length of the system at the telephoto end fm_t: Focal length of the intermediate lens group at the telephoto end Let's assume that.

5. The negative lens group in the aforementioned rear lens group is composed of a single lens. The zoom lens according to claim 1.

6. The positive lens group in the aforementioned rear lens group is composed of single lenses. The zoom lens according to claim 1.

7. Furthermore, the following conditions must be met: The zoom lens according to claim 1. 0.2<BF_w / fw≦1.2...(4) however, BF_w: Back focus at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity (distance from the image-plane-side surface of the rear lens group to the image plane) Let's assume that.

8. The first lens group has lenses that satisfy the following condition (5). The zoom lens according to claim 1. nd_L1i / dL1i>0.50...(5) however, nd_L1i: Refractive index of the glass material of the lens in the first lens group that satisfies the above condition (5) with respect to the d line. d_L1i: The ratio (specific gravity) of the mass of the lens glass material in the first lens group that satisfies the above condition equation (5) at room temperature (15°C to 25°C) to the mass of the same volume of pure water at 4°C under a pressure of 101.325 kPa (standard atmospheric pressure). Let's assume that.

9. The second lens group includes a positive lens that satisfies the following condition (6). The zoom lens according to claim 1. 1.955<nd_L2p...(6) however, nd_L2p: Refractive index of the positive lens in the second lens group that satisfies the above condition (6) with respect to the d line. Let's assume that.

10. The aforementioned intermediate lens group includes a positive lens having an aspherical surface that partially exhibits negative refractive properties. The zoom lens according to claim 1.

11. The first lens group has a positive lens that satisfies the following condition (7). The zoom lens according to claim 1. θgF_L1p-(-0.001801*νd_L1p+0.648262)>0.005...(7) however, θgF_L1p: Partial dispersion ratio of the g-line and F-line of the positive lens in the first lens group that satisfies the condition equation (7). νd_L1p: Abbe number for the d line of the positive lens in the first lens group that satisfies the condition equation (7) above. Let's assume that.

12. The first lens group has a negative lens that satisfies the following condition (8). The zoom lens according to claim 1. νd_L1n<23.0...(8) however, νd_L1n: Abbe number for the d line of the negative lens in the first lens group that satisfies the above condition (8) Let's assume that.

13. The aforementioned intermediate lens group has a positive lens that satisfies the following condition (9). The zoom lens according to claim 1. θgF_Lmp-(-0.001801*νd_Lmp+0.648262)>0.045...(9) however, θgF_Lmp: Partial dispersion ratio of the g-line and F-line of the positive lens in the intermediate lens group that satisfies the condition equation (9). νd_Lmp: Abbe number for the d line of the positive lens in the intermediate lens group that satisfies the condition equation (9) above. Let's assume that.

14. The lens positioned closest to the image plane in the aforementioned rear lens group is a negative lens that satisfies the following condition (10). The zoom lens according to claim 1. 0.9<(r2_rr+r1_rr) / (r2_rr-r1_rr)<6.9...(10) however, r1_rr: Radius of curvature of the object-side surface of the lens located closest to the image plane in the rear lens group. r2_rr: Radius of curvature of the image-plane side surface of the lens located closest to the image plane in the rear lens group. Let's assume that.

15. It includes a zoom lens and an image sensor that outputs an imaging signal corresponding to the optical image formed by the zoom lens, The aforementioned zoom lens is Starting from the object side and moving towards the image plane side, A first lens group having positive refractive power, A second lens group having negative refractive power, An intermediate lens group having one or more lens groups including at least one positive lens group, and having a positive refractive power as a whole, It consists of a rear lens group having a negative lens group and a positive lens group in order from the object side, When the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, the negative lens group and the positive lens group in the rear lens group move in the optical axis direction along different trajectories, and the negative lens group in the rear lens group moves toward the image plane, thereby performing focusing. When the object distance changes from infinity to near distance, the negative lens group and the positive lens group in the rear lens group move in the optical axis direction along different trajectories, and the negative lens group in the rear lens group moves toward the image plane, thereby performing focusing. When zooming from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end, the first lens group moves toward the object relative to the image plane, and the first lens group, the second lens group, the intermediate lens group, and the rear lens group each move along the optical axis such that the spacing between adjacent lens groups changes along the optical axis. The aforementioned intermediate lens group has at least two negative lenses, The following conditions must be met: Imaging device. -0.31≦(1-βrp_w 2 ) / [(1-βrn_w 2 )*βrp_w 2 ]≦0 …(1) however, βrn_w: Lateral magnification of the negative lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. βrp_w: Lateral magnification of the positive lens group in the rear lens group at the wide-angle end and when focused at infinity. Let's assume that.

16. It also features lenses that have virtually no refractive power. A zoom lens according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

17. The zoom lens further comprises a lens that has substantially no refractive power. The imaging apparatus according to claim 15.

Images