Imaging device and lens

Abstract

To provide an imaging apparatus that can ensure heat radiation performance while preventing dust from entering the inside of the apparatus during the attachment and detachment of a lens.SOLUTION: An imaging apparatus of the present invention comprises: a mount 102a that allows attachment and detachment of a lens 500; lens attachment and detachment detection means 440a, 506a that detect that the lens 500 is attached to or detached from the mount; an image pick-up device 115; heat radiation fan 130 that generates an air flow for cooling the image pick-up device 115; and control means that controls the drive of the heat radiation fan. When the lens attachment and detachment detection means 440a, 506a detect that the lens 500 is detached from the mount during the drive of the heat radiation fan 130, the control means stops the heat radiation fan.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging device having a heat dissipation structure for heat generated from a heat source.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, along with the demand for miniaturization of electronic devices, miniaturization and high density of mounted components inside the devices have become remarkable.

[0003] On the other hand, while the demand for higher functionality of imaging devices, particularly for higher performance of video functions, is increasing, the amount of heat generated by the devices tends to increase.

[0004] During video shooting in a high-temperature environment, as the temperature inside the imaging device rises, there is a high possibility of malfunction or performance degradation of the mounted components, and ultimately, it may cause a failure of the imaging device.

[0005] In addition, in recent years, an imaging device that performs shake correction by moving an imaging element in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis direction to improve image quality has become widespread.

[0006] Even in such an imaging device that performs shake correction, heat generated in the imaging element affects the image quality during the driving of the shake correction mechanism, during continuous shooting, or during video shooting, so sufficient heat dissipation is required.

[0007] Therefore, when the amount of heat dissipation by natural heat dissipation is not sufficient for the amount of heat generated by the imaging device, a heat dissipation structure by forced air cooling using a fan is utilized.

[0008] In addition, in an imaging device using an imaging element, an optical low-pass filter or an infrared cut filter is arranged on the subject side of the imaging element. It is known that when foreign substances such as dust that have entered during lens replacement adhere to the filter surface, the adhered portion becomes a black spot and is reflected in the captured image, deteriorating the quality of the captured image.

[0009] Patent Document 1 proposes a technique for cooling an optical system and a heat-generating element arranged in a sealed space using a fan. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0010] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2003-337380 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0011] However, in the prior art disclosed in Patent Document 1 mentioned above, although a cooling effect can be obtained by a fan, it is necessary to maintain a sealed space.

[0012] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and in one embodiment of the present invention, the objective is to provide an imaging device that can ensure heat dissipation performance while preventing dust from entering the inside of the device when attaching or detaching the lens. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] The present invention provides an imaging device comprising: a mount on which a lens can be attached and detached; a lens attachment / detachment detection means for detecting when the lens is attached to or detached from the mount; an image sensor; a cooling fan for generating airflow to cool the image sensor; and a control means for controlling the drive of the cooling fan. The control means is characterized in that, when the lens attachment / detachment detection means detects that the lens has been removed from the mount while the heat dissipation fan is running, it stops the heat dissipation fan.

[0014] Furthermore, the imaging device equipped with the image sensor of the present invention includes a mount on which a lens can be attached and detached, an image sensor, a heat dissipation fan that generates airflow to cool the image sensor, a control means for controlling the drive of the heat dissipation fan, and a means disposed on the subject side of the image sensor. , mechanically movable between an open state that exposes the image sensor and a closed state that covers the front surface of the image sensor and shields the image sensor from light. The light-shielding member and the control means are When the light-shielding member is in the open state, During the driving of the heat radiation fan, control is performed to stop the driving of the heat radiation fan in response to the removal of the lens from the mount. The control means is such that when the light shielding member is The closed state In the case where, even when the lens is removed from the mount during the driving of the heat radiation fan, the driving of the heat radiation fan is continued.

Advantages of the Invention

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, it becomes possible to efficiently remove foreign matters such as dust adhering to the imaging surface by the fan at a more effective timing.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0016] [Figure 1] Exploded perspective view of the digital camera 100 of the present invention [Figure 2] (a) Front exploded perspective view of the imaging element unit 106 of the present invention. (b) Rear exploded perspective view of the imaging element unit 106 of the present invention [Figure 3(a)] Rear view of the imaging element unit 106 and the heat radiation fan 130 of the present invention [Figure 3(b)] Schematic rear view of the heat radiation fan 130 of the imaging element unit 106 of the present invention [Figure 3(c)] Schematic diagram showing the air flow by the heat radiation fan 130 of the imaging element unit 106 of the present invention [Figure 3(d)] Rear view of the heat radiation fan 130 and the imaging element unit 106 of the present invention [Figure 3(e)] Schematic rear view of the heat radiation fan 130 and the imaging element unit 106 of the present invention [Figure 4] Block diagram of the present invention [Figure 5] (a), (b) Front perspective view of the mount unit 102a for attaching and detaching the lens of the present invention. (c) Rear perspective view of the lens unit 500 of the present invention [Figure 6] (a), (b) Schematic diagrams showing the air flow around the mount unit 102a of the present invention [Figure 7] Flowchart showing the control during lens attachment and detachment of the present invention [Figure 8] Flowchart showing the control of the shutter and the fan when the lens is attached and detached according to the present invention [Figure 9] Flowchart showing the control when the lens is attached and detached in the second embodiment of the present invention

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the technology of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0018] However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of the components described below should be appropriately changed according to the configuration of the apparatus to which the invention is applied and various conditions.

[0019] <000,0108>Therefore, the scope of the present invention is not intended to be limited to the following description.

[0020] In particular, well-known techniques or publicly known techniques in the relevant technical field can be applied to configurations and processes that are not specifically illustrated or described. Also, duplicate descriptions may be omitted.

[0021] In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used between the drawings to indicate elements that are the same or functionally similar.

[0022] [First Embodiment] (Explanation of the rear exploded perspective view of the digital camera 100) FIG. 1 is a rear exploded perspective view of a digital camera 100 which is an imaging apparatus of the present invention.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 1, the digital camera 100 is composed of a rear cover 101, a front base 102, a top cover 103, a bottom cover 104, and a side cover 105.

[0024] Inside the digital camera 100, an imaging element unit 106 having an image blur correction mechanism, a main board 107, a shutter 108, a finder 109, and a chassis 110 are arranged.

[0025] The image sensor unit 106 consists of a movable unit containing the image sensor and a fixed unit, and is arranged perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0026] The front base 102 is made of, for example, magnesium die-cast or resin, and is equipped with a mount 102a for attaching interchangeable lenses.

[0027] The main board 107 is a multilayer board with electronic components mounted on both sides. The main board 107 is screw-fixed to the front base 102 and the metal chassis 110.

[0028] The main board 107 is equipped with a control IC 107a for controlling imaging signals, a recording medium connector 107b for housing an external recording medium, and an external communication terminal 107c for connecting cables to external devices.

[0029] The external communication terminal 107c is covered by the sub-cover 105a.

[0030] The image sensor unit 106 is a component that consumes a particularly large amount of power and generates a lot of heat, making it prone to rapid temperature increases, even within the digital camera 100.

[0031] The shooting time of the digital camera 100 is limited by the operating temperature of each component. In order to maintain the shooting time as long as possible, it becomes necessary to take measures to dissipate the heat from the image sensor 106, which is a heat source, and to prevent it from exceeding the operating temperature.

[0032] The image sensor unit 106 is fixed to the front base 102 with screws, and the heat from the image sensor unit is dissipated to the front base 102.

[0033] The cooling fan 130 is positioned around the image sensor 106 so that the airflow direction is perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0034] Furthermore, by allowing air to pass over the back of the image sensor 106, which is the heat source, localized overheating is prevented (details will be described later).

[0035] In this embodiment, the cooling fan 130 is a centrifugal fan, but this is not limited to that; for example, an axial fan or any other fan is acceptable as long as it achieves the objective.

[0036] Furthermore, the main board 107 is also one of the heat sources, and by positioning the heat dissipation fan 130 with its exhaust port 131a facing so that air is blown between the image sensor unit 106 and the main board 107, it is possible to provide heat dissipation effects to multiple heat sources.

[0037] However, the exhaust port 131a is located closest to the image sensor section 106, which generates more heat.

[0038] (Detailed description of the image sensor unit 106) Figure 2 will be used to explain the details of the image sensor unit 106. Figure 2(a) is an exploded perspective view of the front of the image sensor unit 106, and Figure 2(b) is an exploded perspective view of the rear.

[0039] The movable part 114 has a coil section 116 on which coils and Hall elements are arranged for moving the image sensor 115, and is held by the sensor holder 117.

[0040] The drive mechanism 113 has three magnets 118 attached to it, and the movable part 114 is held in place by the magnets 118.

[0041] Between the movable part 114 and the drive mechanism 113, a ball (not shown) is placed in a ball holding part 117a provided on the sensor holder.

[0042] The movable part 114 can be moved by changing the amount of current supplied to the coil part 116. By moving the movable part 114 in a direction that cancels out the shaking of the digital camera body 100, image stabilization can be applied.

[0043] The image sensor 115 has a sensor chip (not shown) bonded to an imaging substrate 115a on which an imaging circuit is mounted, and is electrically connected to the imaging substrate by wire bonding.

[0044] The image sensor 115 and the sensor holder 117 are bonded and fixed together with adhesive. On the back surface of the sensor chip mounting surface on the imaging substrate 115a, components 115b of the imaging circuit, such as capacitors, resistors, and regulators, are mounted.

[0045] The electrical connection between the image sensor unit 106 and the main circuit board 107 is made using a flexible wiring board.

[0046] The imaging signal flexible circuit 111 is wired with imaging signals output from the image sensor and control signals necessary for driving the image sensor, and these signals are sent to the control IC 107a on the main board.

[0047] The imaging power supply flexible circuit 112 is a flexible circuit that supplies power to drive the image sensor. Inter-board connectors are used to connect the imaging board 115a to each flexible circuit.

[0048] Furthermore, the image sensor 115 has a means for removing foreign matter that has accumulated on its surface, which will be explained using the exploded perspective view of the image sensor 115 shown in Figure 2(c).

[0049] The image sensor 115 is composed of an image sensor unit 300, a vibration unit 400, and a biasing member 115i.

[0050] 115c and 115f are light-shielding members that have apertures formed in them corresponding to the effective area of ​​the image sensor 115a.

[0051] The 115d is a well-known optical low-pass filter that cuts out signals in the high-frequency range.

[0052] 115e is an image sensor holding member made of a resin material having an opening corresponding to the effective area of ​​the image sensor 115a, and an elastomer is integrally formed around the entire circumference near the edge of the opening.

[0053] 115g is a cover glass with optical coatings such as infrared cut and anti-reflective properties.

[0054] 115h is a well-known piezoelectric element, fixed to the cover glass 115g by means of a conductive adhesive or the like.

[0055] By applying a predetermined frequency voltage to the piezoelectric element 115h, it undergoes expansion and contraction, and consequently, the cover glass 115g also undergoes periodic bending deformation, which shakes off dust and other debris from the cover glass 115g.

[0056] 115i is a retaining member for biasing and fixing the aforementioned imaging unit 300 and vibration unit 300 to the image sensor 115a fixed to the sensor holder 117.

[0057] The elastomers of the retaining member 115i and the image sensor holding member 115e form a sealed space around the image sensor 115 that prevents the intrusion of foreign matter such as dust.

[0058] (Explanation of the diagram showing the cooling fan 130 and the image sensor unit 106 viewed from the rear) Figure 3(a) is a perspective view showing the positional relationship between the cooling fan, the image sensor unit 106, and the main circuit board 107, Figure 3(b) is a cross-section AA of (a), and Figure 3(c) is a schematic diagram showing the airflow.

[0059] Figures 3(d) and 3(e) show the heat dissipation fan 130 and the image sensor unit 106 as viewed from the rear, and a schematic diagram thereof.

[0060] In Figures 3(a) and 3(b), the cooling fan 130 is positioned between the image sensor unit 106 and the main circuit board 107, with the exhaust port 131a being approximately perpendicular to the optical axis of photography.

[0061] As a result, air can pass between the image sensor unit 106 and the main circuit board 107, as shown in Figure 3(c).

[0062] This prevents the image sensor section 106, which is a heat source, from becoming locally hot, while also providing a heat dissipation effect to the main substrate 107, which is another heat source.

[0063] Furthermore, the air that passes over the image sensor unit 106 and the main circuit board 107 is stirred up by the bottom cover 104 as shown by the arrows in the diagram and circulates within the housing.

[0064] Furthermore, the exhaust port 106a does not necessarily have to be perpendicular to the optical axis of photography; tilting it relative to the optical axis of photography can also enhance the heat dissipation effect by directing a stronger airflow (wind) onto the image sensor 106.

[0065] Next, the relationship between the movement of the movable part 114 of the image sensor unit 106 and the position of the cooling fan 130 will be explained. The movable part 114 can move perpendicular to the optical axis, and its range of movement is indicated by 114a.

[0066] Furthermore, the range in which the movable part 114 is always present when the movable part 114 moves is indicated by 114b. This range is the range in which the movable part 114 is present regardless of the position of the movable part 114 in 114a.

[0067] Specifically, the exhaust port 131 of the cooling fan 130 is oriented so that air is blown into the area 114b where the movable part 114 is always located when the movable part 114 moves.

[0068] Here, the general direction of airflow is shown in 131a. As long as the airflow direction 131a is within the range of 114b, heat dissipation can be obtained regardless of the position of the movable part 114, which is the heat source of the image sensor unit 106.

[0069] Furthermore, because it is not physically connected to the moving parts, it is possible to generate heat dissipation without interfering with the image stabilization function caused by movement.

[0070] In Embodiment 1, for example, the cooling fan 130 is operating at a wind speed of 4.5 L / min.

[0071] Liters per minute (L / min) is a unit of volumetric flow rate. By incorporating a cooling fan 130, it is possible to reduce the maximum temperature reached by the image sensor 106 by 10°C.

[0072] This suppresses the temperature rise of the heat source, making it less likely for the digital camera 100 to reach the limit temperature at which it would shut down due to overheating.

[0073] (Explanation of a block diagram showing an example configuration of the Digital Camera 400) Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the digital camera 400 according to the present invention.

[0074] The shutter 410 is a focal-plane shutter that can freely control the exposure time of the imaging unit 411, which will be described later. This control is performed by the system control unit 420, which will be described later.

[0075] The imaging unit 411 has an imaging surface on which the subject image (optical image) that has passed through the lens 501 is formed, and is an imaging device that outputs an electrical signal (analog signal) corresponding to the optical image on the imaging surface by photoelectric conversion.

[0076] The imaging unit 411 can be a CCD (Charge Couple Device) or a CMOS (Complementary MOS) sensor.

[0077] The A / D converter 412 is a signal conversion means used to convert the analog signal output from the imaging unit 411 into a digital signal.

[0078] The image processing unit 413 generates image data by performing resizing and color conversion processes, such as predetermined pixel interpolation and reduction, on the digital signal from the A / D converter 412 or the digital signal from the memory control unit 422, which will be described later.

[0079] Based on the calculation results obtained by the image processing unit 413, the system control unit 420 controls the aperture position and lens position.

[0080] The image processing unit 413 further performs calculations using the image data and performs TTL-type AWB (auto white balance) processing based on the obtained calculation results.

[0081] The system control unit 420 is a control unit consisting of at least one processor or circuit, and controls the entire digital camera 400.

[0082] Each process of the present invention is realized by executing the program recorded in the non-volatile memory 423 described later.

[0083] The memory 421 is a storage means for temporarily recording digital signals obtained by the imaging unit 411 and converted by the A / D converter 412, as well as image data generated by the image processing unit 413.

[0084] The memory 421 has sufficient storage capacity to store a predetermined number of still images, a predetermined amount of video footage, and audio.

[0085] The memory control unit 422 is a memory control means that controls the transmission and reception of data controlled by the system control unit 420 to and from the A / D converter 412, the image processing unit 413, and the memory 421.

[0086] The digital signal output from the A / D converter 412 is written directly to the memory 421 via the image processing unit 413 and the memory control unit 422, or via the memory control unit 422 alone.

[0087] The non-volatile memory 423 is an electrically erasable and recordable read-only storage means, and stores constants, programs, and the like for the operation of the system control unit 420.

[0088] The system memory 424 is a read-and-write storage means that stores constants, variables, and programs read from the non-volatile memory 423 for the operation of the system control unit 420.

[0089] The system timer 425 is a timing unit that measures the time until the auto power-off operation, which turns off the various display components described later, is performed, as well as the exposure time.

[0090] The auto power-off function has the ability to turn off various indicator lights (described later) to prevent battery drain when it determines that the photographer is not operating the digital camera 400.

[0091] The power supply unit 430 consists of primary batteries such as alkaline batteries and lithium batteries, secondary batteries such as NiCd batteries, NiMH batteries and Li batteries, and an AC adapter.

[0092] The power control unit 431 consists of a circuit for detecting the power supply unit 430, which is the power source for driving the digital camera 400, a DC-DC converter, a switch circuit for switching the power supply destination, and the like.

[0093] The power supply unit 430 then detects whether a battery is installed, the type of battery, and the remaining battery level.

[0094] Furthermore, the power control unit 431 controls the DC-DC converter based on the detection results and instructions from the system control unit 420, and supplies the necessary voltage to the recipient at the necessary timing.

[0095] The communication terminal 440 is provided on the digital camera 400 and is electrically connected to the lens communication terminal 506, which will be described later.

[0096] When the communication terminal 440 is electrically connected, the system control unit 420, which controls the entire digital camera 400, becomes able to communicate with the lens 500, which will be described later.

[0097] The recording medium I / F441 is an interface with the recording medium 600, which will be described later.

[0098] The attitude detection unit 442 detects the attitude of the digital camera 400 relative to the direction of gravity.

[0099] Based on the posture detected by the posture detection unit 442, the imaging unit 411 can output orientation information indicating whether the image was taken with the digital camera held horizontally or vertically.

[0100] The system control unit 420 can add orientation information output by the attitude detection unit 442 to the image data.

[0101] The attitude detection unit 442 can use an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope, or the like.

[0102] By using an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor as the attitude detection unit 442, it is also possible to detect the movement of the digital camera 400 (pan, tilt, lift, whether it is stationary or not, etc.).

[0103] The eyepiece section 443 is the point where the photographer's eye (object) 700 approaches (eyepieces) the digital camera 400.

[0104] The eyepiece detection unit 444 is an approach or eyepiece detection sensor that detects when the eye 700 approaches (approaches) and moves away from (separates) the eyepiece unit 443.

[0105] The eyepiece detection unit 444 detects the presence of an eye 700 in the eyepiece unit 443 based on whether or not light is received by the light-receiving unit (not shown) of the infrared proximity sensor.

[0106] After detecting eye placement, the system control unit 420 determines that the eye placement state is maintained until eye separation is detected.

[0107] After detecting eye separation, the system control unit 420 remains in a non-eyepiece state until eyepiece detection is detected.

[0108] Note that the infrared proximity sensor is just one example; the eyepiece detection unit 444 may use any other sensor that can detect the approach of an eye or object that can be considered an eyepiece.

[0109] The aforementioned memory 421 also serves as memory for displaying images (video memory).

[0110] Digital signals and image data written to memory 421 are displayed via memory control unit 422 by rear display unit 450 and EVF 451.

[0111] The rear display unit 450 displays information according to the signal from the memory control unit 422.

[0112] The EVF451 displays information according to the signal from the memory control unit 422 when the eyepiece detection unit 444 detects that an eyepiece has been used.

[0113] The analog signal generated by the imaging unit 411 is converted by the A / D converter 412 and recorded as a digital signal in the memory 421. This digital signal is then sequentially transferred to the rear display unit 450 or the EVF 451 for display.

[0114] This enables real-time display, known as live view shooting display.

[0115] The system control unit 420 switches the display (display state) / hidden (hidden state) of the rear display unit 450 and the EVF 451 according to the state detected by the eyepiece detection unit 444.

[0116] When not using an eyepiece, the display is shown on the rear display unit 450, and the EVF 451 is turned off.

[0117] Additionally, the EVF451 displays the image while the eyepiece is engaged, and the rear display unit 450 is turned off.

[0118] The operation unit 460 consists of various operating components that act as input units for receiving operations from the user.

[0119] The control unit 460 includes various control elements described later (mode switching switch 461, shutter button 462, first shutter switch 463, second shutter switch 464, touch panel 465, power switch 466).

[0120] Furthermore, the operation unit 460 is an operating means for inputting various operation instructions to the system control unit 420.

[0121] The mode switching switch 461 is a shooting mode switching means for switching the operating mode of the system control unit 420 to one of the following: still image shooting mode, video shooting mode, etc.

[0122] The shooting modes included in still image shooting mode are Auto Shooting Mode, Auto Scene Recognition Mode, and Manual Shooting Mode.

[0123] In addition, the still image shooting modes include aperture priority mode (Av mode), shutter speed priority mode (Tv mode), and program AE mode (P mode).

[0124] Similarly, video recording modes may also include multiple shooting modes.

[0125] The shutter button 462 is a means for the photographer to initiate shooting by giving instructions to prepare for shooting and to start shooting, and is composed of a first shutter switch 463 and a second shutter switch 464.

[0126] The first shutter switch 463 turns ON during the operation of the shutter button 462 on the digital camera 400, specifically when it is half-pressed (indicating preparation for shooting), and generates the first shutter switch signal SW1.

[0127] The first shutter switch signal SW1 initiates shooting preparation operations such as AF (autofocus), AE (automatic exposure), and AWB (automatic white balance).

[0128] The second shutter switch 464 turns ON when the shutter button 462 is fully pressed (instructing the camera to take a picture), generating the second shutter switch signal SW2.

[0129] The system control unit 420 receives the second shutter switch signal SW2, which reads the analog signal from the imaging unit 411 and performs signal conversion processing in the A / D converter 412 and the image processing unit 413.

[0130] Furthermore, the system control unit 420 starts the shooting process operation until the image data temporarily recorded in the memory 421 is written to the recording medium 600, which will be described later.

[0131] The touch panel 465 is a device that detects touch or drag operations by the photographer.

[0132] Here, it is integrated with the rear display unit 450, and can be operated by touching the display area of ​​the rear display unit 450 with your finger.

[0133] The power switch 466 is a switch that turns the power ON / OFF. The power control unit 431 controls the power supply from the power supply unit 430 based on the switching operation of the power switch 466.

[0134] The cooling fan 470 is controlled by the system control unit 420 to cool the heat source inside the digital camera 400.

[0135] The lens unit 500 is an interchangeable lens that can be attached to and detached from the digital camera 400.

[0136] Lens 501 is a group of lenses that generate an optical image (subject image) from the subject light reflected by the subject, and is composed of multiple lenses, but in this diagram, for simplification, only one lens is shown.

[0137] The lens-side communication terminal 506 is a communication terminal used by the lens unit 500 to communicate with the digital camera 400.

[0138] As described above, the lens unit 500 can communicate with the system control unit 420, which controls the entire digital camera 400, by electrically connecting the lens-side communication terminal 506 and the camera-side communication terminal 440.

[0139] This enables the system control unit 420 to communicate with the lens system control circuit 505 and the aperture drive circuit 504 to control the position of the aperture 503 and the focus state of the real image by displacing the lens 501.

[0140] The recording medium 600 is a recording medium such as a memory card that is detachable from the digital camera 400 and is used to record captured images.

[0141] Examples include SD cards, FLASH® memory, and hard drives.

[0142] The temperature sensing unit 471 is located on the circuit board and detects the temperature of the elements inside the digital camera and the temperature of the exterior. Based on the acquired temperature, the camera is controlled to prevent damage to internal elements due to heat and low-temperature burns to the photographer due to rising exterior temperatures.

[0143] (Lens attachment / detachment mount 102a and lens unit 500) Figure 5 shows the mount section 102a and lens unit 500 for attaching and detaching the lens of the digital camera 100.

[0144] Figure 5(a) shows the shutter 108 closed, covering the front of the image sensor 115, while Figure 5(b) shows the shutter 108 open, exposing the image sensor 115.

[0145] Figure 5(c) is a perspective view of the lens unit 500 from the contact terminal side.

[0146] This section explains how to connect the lens unit 500 and the digital camera 100.

[0147] Align the positioning indicators on the lens and the camera body, then bring the lens into contact with the camera's mount. Rotating the lens will lock it into place.

[0148] When fixed, the locking pin 120 is inserted into the hole 508 on the lens side, restricting the rotation of the lens. To remove the lens, pressing the lens release button 119 causes the locking pin 120 to retract from the hole 508, allowing rotation and removal of the lens.

[0149] The mount portion 102a on the digital camera 100 and the lens-side mount portion 507 on the lens unit 500 are each equipped with multiple electrical contacts that enable electrical connection, namely the camera-side communication terminal 440 and the lens-side communication terminal 506, respectively.

[0150] In the digital camera 100, the camera-side communication terminal 440 is exposed to the outside of the digital camera 100 as multiple electrical contact pins in the mount portion 102a.

[0151] Furthermore, in the lens unit 500, the multiple lens-side communication terminals 506 are exposed to the outside of the lens unit 500 as multiple electrical contact surfaces on the lens-side mount portion 507.

[0152] With the lens unit 500 attached to the digital camera 100, each of these terminals makes physical contact with the corresponding terminals, and the contacts of each terminal are electrically connected.

[0153] Among the communication terminals, lens attachment / detachment detection terminals 440a and 506a are used to detect when the lens unit 500 is attached to the digital camera 100.

[0154] The system control unit 420 detects when a lens corresponding to the digital camera 100 is attached to the digital camera 100 or when a lens has been removed from the digital camera 100 by detecting the voltage level indicated by the lens attachment / detachment detection terminal 440a.

[0155] Then, the system control unit 420, upon detecting, for example, the attachment of a lens, starts supplying power to the power supply terminals and controls the system to start communication between the digital camera 100 and the lens.

[0156] Communication terminals 440b and 506b are ground terminals.

[0157] The lens attachment / detachment detection terminal 506a is electrically connected to the ground terminal 506b on the lens unit 500 side, and the two are at the same potential.

[0158] Furthermore, the lens attachment / detachment detection terminal 440a is connected to the power supply on the camera side via a resistor. With this configuration, when no lens is attached, the voltage level of the detection unit of the system control unit 420 becomes equivalent to the power supply (3.3V) connected to the system control unit 420.

[0159] Furthermore, when the lens unit 500 is installed, the voltage level of the detection unit of the system control unit 420 becomes ground level.

[0160] In this way, it becomes possible to detect whether or not the corresponding lens is attached based on the potential level.

[0161] Figures 6(a) and 6(b) show schematic cross-sectional diagrams and internal airflow diagrams of Figures 5(a) and 5(b), respectively. Figure 6(a) shows the shutter 108 in the closed position, and Figure 6(b) shows the shutter 108 in the closed position.

[0162] When the cooling fan 130 is activated, the air (airflow) inside the digital camera 100 circulates.

[0163] When the shutter 108 is closed, the air (airflow) will circulate inside the digital camera.

[0164] This suppresses the intrusion of dust carried by external airflow, thereby reducing the adhesion of dust to the surface of the image sensor 115.

[0165] When a lens is attached, it acts as a cover, making it difficult for dust to enter. However, when the shutter 108 is open and the lens is removed, the fan is activated, causing air to enter and exit the camera from the outside. As a result, external dust can enter the camera and easily adhere to the surface of the image sensor 115.

[0166] (Explanation of the first flowchart) Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the control of lens attachment and detachment in the imaging device of the present invention. The process starts with the lens already attached.

[0167] In step S101, it is determined whether the temperature of the heat source exceeds a predetermined value based on information from the temperature detection unit 471.

[0168] If the value exceeds a predetermined value, the process proceeds to step S102, and the cooling fan 130 is activated. The activation of the cooling fan 130 causes convection of the air (airflow) inside the imaging device, cooling the image sensor 115.

[0169] Next, in step S103, if the camera detects that the lens has been removed from the signals of the lens attachment / detachment detection terminals 440a and 506a, the cooling fan 130 is stopped in step S104. If the lens is removed while the cooling fan 130 is running, there is a risk that dust will enter the camera along with the outside air. Therefore, stopping the cooling fan 130 stops the convection inside the camera and suppresses the entry of dust.

[0170] If the heat source temperature is below a predetermined value in step S101, the process proceeds to step S106, and the cooling fan 130 is stopped. Even if the removal of the lens is detected in step S107, the cooling fan remains stopped.

[0171] Next, we will explain the case where the lens is attached in step S105. When the attachment of the lens is detected, in step S108, it is determined whether the temperature of the heat source exceeds a predetermined value based on the information from the temperature detection unit 471.

[0172] If the heat source temperature is above a predetermined value, the process proceeds to step S109 and the cooling fan 130 is started to run.

[0173] If the heat source temperature is below a predetermined value, the process proceeds to step S110 and the cooling fan 130 is stopped.

[0174] Next, the process proceeds to step S111, where the surface of the image sensor 115 is removed by foreign matter removal.

[0175] The above procedure helps to prevent dust from entering the camera's interior when attaching or detaching the lens.

[0176] (Explanation of the second flowchart) Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the control of lens attachment and detachment in the imaging device of the present invention, with the operation of the heat dissipation fan 130 due to the opening and closing of the shutter 108 added. Parts with the same configuration are given the same reference numerals, and their detailed explanations are omitted.

[0177] If, in step S103, it is detected that the lens has been removed from the signals of the lens attachment / detachment detection terminals 440a and 506a, then in step S111, it is checked whether the shutter 108 is closed.

[0178] If the shutter 108 is closed, the process proceeds to step S113 and the cooling fan 130 continues to run. If the shutter 108 is open, the process proceeds to step S112. Here, a decision is made as to whether or not to close the shutter 108. If the shutter 108 is closed, the process proceeds to step S113 and the cooling fan 130 continues to run.

[0179] If the shutter 108 is not closed in step S112, the cooling fan 130 is stopped.

[0180] When the cooling fan 130 is running, if the lens is removed and the shutter 108 is open, dust and debris can enter the camera along with the outside air (airflow).

[0181] By stopping the operation of the cooling fan 130, convection inside the camera is stopped, suppressing the intrusion of dust. When the shutter 108 is closed, the intrusion of dust is suppressed, so the operation of the cooling fan 130 is continued.

[0182] The above procedure helps to prevent dust from entering the camera's interior when attaching or detaching the lens.

[0183] This embodiment includes the following configurations and methods.

[0184] (Composition 1) An imaging device comprising: a mount 102a on which a lens 500 can be attached and detached; lens attachment / detachment detection means 440a, 506a for detecting when the lens 500 has been attached to or detached from the mount; an image sensor 115; a heat dissipation fan 130 for generating airflow to cool the image sensor 115; and control means for controlling the drive of the heat dissipation fan, The control means is characterized in that, when the lens attachment / detachment detection means 440a, 506a detect that the lens 500 has been removed from the mount while the heat dissipation fan 130 is being driven, the heat dissipation fan is stopped (Figure 7).

[0185] (Configuration 2) An imaging device comprising: a mount 102a on which a lens 500 can be attached and detached; lens attachment / detachment detection means 440a, 506a for detecting when the lens 500 has been attached to or detached from the mount; an image sensor 115; a heat dissipation fan 130 for generating airflow to cool the image sensor 115; control means for controlling the drive of the heat dissipation fan; and a mechanical shutter positioned on the subject side of the image sensor, The control means is characterized in that, when the lens attachment / detachment detection means 440a, 506a detect that the lens 500 has been removed from the mount while the heat dissipation fan 130 is being driven, the drive of the heat dissipation fan 130 is not stopped when the mechanical shutter 108 is closed (Figure 8).

[0186] (Composition 3) The imaging device according to configuration 2 (Figure 8), characterized in that when the control means detects that the lens 500 has been removed from the mount by the lens attachment / detachment detection means 440a, 506a while the heat dissipation fan 130 is being driven, if the mechanical shutter 108 is open, it closes the mechanical shutter 108 and does not stop driving the heat dissipation fan 130.

[0187] (Composition 4) The imaging device according to configuration 2 (Figure 8), characterized in that the control means stops driving the heat dissipation fan 130 when the lens attachment / detachment detection means 440a, 506a detect that the lens 500 has been removed from the mount while the heat dissipation fan 130 is being driven, and the mechanical shutter 108 is open.

[0188] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0189] For parts with the same configuration, the same reference numerals are used, and detailed explanations are omitted. In Embodiment 2, a switch (not shown) is located directly below the lens attachment / detachment button 119 shown in Figure 5.

[0190] When the lens attachment / detachment button 119 is pressed, information from the lens attachment / detachment button press detection 472 in Figure 4 is sent to the system control unit 420. The switch used can be a contact-type switch using the contact of a metal dome, or a non-contact detection means that uses a photointerrupter to detect the movement of the button.

[0191] (Explanation of the third flowchart) Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the control during lens attachment and detachment in an imaging device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0192] The flow described above will be omitted from the explanation. In step S102, the cooling fan 130 is activated.

[0193] If it is detected in step S201 that the lens attachment / detachment button 119 has been pressed, the rotation speed of the cooling fan 130 is reduced in step S202.

[0194] Then, the process proceeds to step S203, and when the lens removal detection terminals 440a and 506a detect that the lens has been removed, the process proceeds to step S204 to check whether the shutter 108 is closed. If the shutter 108 is not closed, the process proceeds to step S114 to stop the cooling fan 130. Because the cooling fan 130 is already rotating at a low speed, the time it takes for the cooling fan 130 to stop when the lens is removed can be shortened.

[0195] This allows for better suppression of convection inside the camera, thereby reducing the intrusion of dust.

[0196] If the shutter 108 was closed in step S204, the process proceeds to step S113, where the rotation speed of the cooling fan 130 is returned to its original rotation speed at step S102, and normal cooling is performed.

[0197] In step S202, the rotation speed of the cooling fan 130 is changed to a low speed, but it may also be stopped. In that case, the opening and closing of the shutter 108 determines whether to keep the cooling fan 130 stopped or to start the fan again.

[0198] (Composition 5) Furthermore, the imaging device according to Configuration 1 (Figure 9) further comprises an operating means 119 for attaching and detaching a lens, and an operation detection means 472 for detecting when the operating means 119 is operated, wherein the control means reduces or stops the rotation speed of the heat dissipation fan 130 when it detects that the operating means 119 has been operated.

[0199] (Composition 6) Furthermore, the imaging device according to configuration 2 (Figure 9) further comprises an operating means 119 for attaching and detaching a lens, and an operation detection means 472 for detecting when the operating means 119 is operated, wherein the control means reduces or stops the rotation speed of the heat dissipation fan 130 when it detects that the operating means 119 has been operated.

[0200] (Composition 7) A lens that can be attached to or detached from the mount of the imaging device described in any one of items 1 to 6 of the configuration.

[0201] The embodiments have been described above, but the descriptions of the embodiments and modified examples are illustrative for explaining the technology of this disclosure.

[0202] The technologies disclosed herein can be implemented in any way that does not depart from the spirit of the invention, by modifying or combining them as appropriate.

[0203] Specifically, the present invention is not limited to digital cameras, but can be broadly applied to electronic devices and imaging devices equipped with video recording capabilities, such as video cameras and network cameras. Although lenses were used as an example of detachable equipment in the explanation, the invention can also be applied to other detachable accessories. [Industrial applicability]

[0204] The technology disclosed herein is used in electronic devices and imaging systems. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0205] 100, 400 digital cameras 102 Front Base 102a mount 106 Image sensor section 107 Main board 108 Mechanical Shutter 109 Finder 110 Chassis 111 Imaging signal flexible cable 112 Imaging power supply flexible cable 115 Image sensor 115a Imaging substrate (image sensor) 119 Lens attachment / detachment button 120 lock pins 130 Cooling Fan 300 Image Sensor Unit 440 Camera-side communication terminal 440a Lens attachment / detachment detection terminal 500 Lens Unit 501 Lens 506 Lens-side communication terminal 506a Lens attachment / detachment detection terminal 507 Lens mount section

Claims

1. A mount that allows for lens attachment and detachment, Image sensor and A cooling fan that generates airflow to cool the image sensor, Control means for controlling the operation of the heat dissipation fan, The device has a light-shielding member positioned on the subject side of the image sensor, which is mechanically movable between an open state that exposes the image sensor and a closed state that covers the front surface of the image sensor and shields the image sensor from light. The control means, when the light-shielding member is in the open state, performs control to stop the operation of the heat dissipation fan in response to the lens being removed from the mount while the heat dissipation fan is running. The imaging apparatus is characterized in that, when the light-shielding member is in the closed state, the control means continues to drive the heat dissipation fan even if the lens is removed from the mount while the heat dissipation fan is being driven.

2. It further has an operating mechanism for attaching and detaching the lens, The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means reduces or stops the rotation speed of the heat dissipation fan in response to the operation of the operating means when the light-shielding member is in the open state.

3. The imaging device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the light-shielding member is a mechanical shutter.

Images