Optical apparatus

Abstract

[Problem] To provide an optical apparatus that is small in size while securing substrate mounting area. [Solution] This optical apparatus comprises a first substrate that has a main plane perpendicular to the optical axis direction of an optical system and is provided with an inner diameter and an outer diameter centered around the optical axis direction, a second substrate that is connected to the first substrate and has a main plane parallel to the optical axis direction, and a fixed barrel that positions the first substrate in a state in which movement of the first substrate in the optical axis direction is restricted, a connection part between the first substrate and the second substrate being disposed so that the fixed barrel does not overlap with a fixing part for fixing a component different from the first substrate when viewed from the optical axis direction, and at least a part of the fixed barrel being positioned inside the outer diameter when viewed from the optical axis direction.

Description

optical equipment

[0001] The present invention relates to optical instruments.

[0002] In recent years, optical devices such as digital cameras, video cameras, and interchangeable lenses have become larger in size as the control circuits mounted on the main boards have become larger as their functionality has improved, increasing the area, or width, of the main board.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an electric board mounting structure for an interchangeable lens that allows for flexibility in order to ensure a board mounting area without increasing the width of the main board. Specifically, the electric board mounting structure is disclosed to be composed of at least one hard board substantially perpendicular to the optical axis, at least one hard board substantially parallel to the optical axis, and a board-to-board connector that connects both hard boards.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-172863

[0005] However, Patent Document 1 does not disclose any restrictions on the components that may be placed around the hard circuit board inside the interchangeable lens. Zoom lenses, in particular, are provided with a coupling and rotation mechanism for moving the lens barrel, which is involved in zooming, back and forth along the optical axis, and the placement of the hard circuit board must take into account its relationship with the coupling and rotation mechanism.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a compact optical device while ensuring a sufficient board mounting area.

[0007] An optical device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a first substrate having a main plane perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the optical system and having an inner diameter and an outer diameter centered in the optical axis direction, a second substrate connected to the first substrate and having a main plane parallel to the optical axis direction, and a fixed barrel that positions the first substrate while restricting movement of the first substrate in the optical axis direction, wherein, when viewed from the optical axis direction, the connection portion between the first substrate and the second substrate is positioned so that the fixed barrel does not overlap with a fixing portion for fixing a component other than the first substrate, and at least a portion of the fixed barrel is located inside the outer diameter when viewed from the optical axis direction.

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a small-sized optical device while ensuring a sufficient board mounting area.

[0009] FIG. 1 is an external view of a camera system of Example 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the camera system of Example 1. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the camera system (retracted state) of Example 1. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the camera system (extended state) of Example 1. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a state in which a first substrate, a second substrate, and a third substrate of Example 1 are joined. FIG. 6 is an explanatory view of the arrangement of the first to third substrates of Example 1. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a linear guide barrel and a fixed barrel of Example 1. FIG. 8 is a view showing before and after the first substrate of Example 1 is fixed to the fixed barrel. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a camera system (retracted state) of Example 2. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a camera system (extended state) of Example 2. FIG. 11 is an explanatory view of the arrangement of the first substrate and the second substrate of Example 2. FIG. 12 is an explanatory view of the arrangement of the first substrate and the second substrate of Example 3.

[0010] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0011] FIG. 1 is an external view of a camera system according to this embodiment. FIGS. 1A and 1B are views as seen from the front and rear, respectively. The camera system includes an interchangeable lens (optical device) 101 and a digital camera (imaging device, hereinafter referred to as a camera body) 1 to which the interchangeable lens 101 is detachably attached. As shown in FIG. 1A, the optical axis direction of the imaging optical system housed in the interchangeable lens 101 is defined as the X-axis direction, and directions perpendicular to this are defined as the Z-axis direction (horizontal direction) and the Y-axis direction (vertical direction). Hereinafter, the Z-axis direction and the Y-axis direction will be collectively referred to as the Z / Y-axis direction. Furthermore, the rotation direction around the Z-axis is defined as the pitch direction, and the rotation direction around the Y-axis is defined as the yaw direction. The pitch direction and the yaw direction (hereinafter collectively referred to as the pitch / yaw direction) are rotation directions around two mutually perpendicular axes, the Z-axis and the Y-axis. Note that, in each embodiment, an interchangeable lens will be described as an example of an optical device, but the present invention can also be applied to other devices, such as integrated lens cameras.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1A, the camera body 1 has a grip portion 2 on the left side when viewed from the front (the subject side) (the right side when viewed from the rear) that allows the user to hold the camera body 1 with their hand.

[0013] A power supply operation unit 3 is disposed on the top surface of the camera body 1. When the user turns on the power supply operation unit 3 while the camera body 1 is in the power-off state, the camera body 1 is turned on and becomes capable of capturing images. When the user turns off the power supply operation unit 3 while the camera body 1 is in the power-on state, the camera body 1 is turned off.

[0014] The top surface of the camera body 1 is also provided with a mode dial 4, a release button 5, and an accessory shoe 6. The user can switch between imaging modes by rotating the mode dial 4. The imaging modes include a manual still image capture mode, in which the user can freely set imaging conditions such as shutter speed and aperture value, an auto still image capture mode, in which the appropriate exposure is automatically obtained, and a video capture mode for capturing videos. The user can half-press the release button 5 to instruct imaging preparation operations such as autofocus and auto exposure control, and can fully press the button to instruct imaging. The accessory shoe 6 is used to detachably mount accessories such as an external flash and an external viewfinder (EVF), not shown.

[0015] The interchangeable lens 101 is mechanically and electrically connected to the camera mount 7 provided on the camera body 1 via a lens mount 102. As described above, the interchangeable lens 101 houses an imaging optical system that forms an image of a subject using light from the subject. The outer periphery of the interchangeable lens 101 is provided with a zoom ring 103 that can be rotated around the optical axis by a user's operation. The outer periphery of the zoom ring 103 is knurled to prevent the user's hand from slipping during operation. When the user rotates the zoom ring 103, the zoom group that constitutes the imaging optical system moves to a predetermined optical position corresponding to the angle of the zoom ring 103. This operation enables the user to capture an image at a desired angle of view. The zoom group includes a lens and a lens holding member that holds the lens.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1B , the rear surface of the camera body 1 is provided with a rear operation unit 8 and a display unit 9. The rear operation unit 8 includes a plurality of buttons and dials assigned with various functions. When the camera 1 is powered on and the still image or video capture mode is set, the display unit 9 displays a through image of a subject captured by an image sensor provided within the camera body 1. The display unit 9 also displays imaging parameters indicating imaging conditions such as shutter speed and aperture value, and the user can change the settings of the imaging parameters by operating the rear operation unit 8 while viewing the display. The rear operation unit 8 includes a playback button for instructing playback of a recorded captured image, and the captured image is played back and displayed on the display unit 9 when the user operates the playback button.

[0017] 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical and optical configuration of the camera system. The camera body 1 has a power supply unit 10 that supplies power to the camera body 1 and the interchangeable lens 101, a power operation unit 3, a mode dial 4, a release button 5, a rear operation unit 8, and an operation unit 11 that includes a touch panel function of the display unit 9.

[0018] The camera body 1 and interchangeable lens 101 are controlled as an entire system by the camera control unit 12 provided in the camera body 1 and the lens control unit 104 provided in the interchangeable lens 101 working together. The camera control unit 12 reads and executes a computer program stored in the storage unit 13. In this case, the camera control unit 12 communicates various control signals, data, and the like with the lens control unit 104 via a communication terminal of an electrical contact 105 provided in the lens mount 102. The electrical contact 105 includes a power terminal that supplies power from the power supply unit 10 to the interchangeable lens 101.

[0019] The imaging optical system includes a zoom group 110 connected to a zoom operation ring 103 and moving in the optical axis direction to change the angle of view. The imaging optical system also includes a lens vibration reduction group 115 including a shift lens as an image stabilization element that reduces image blur. The lens vibration reduction group 115 performs image stabilization by moving (shifting) the shift lens in the Z / Y axis directions perpendicular to the optical axis to reduce image blur. The imaging optical system also includes an aperture group 201 that adjusts the amount of light, and a focus group 112 including a focus lens that moves in the optical axis direction to adjust the focus. The interchangeable lens 101 also includes an image stabilization driver 402 that drives the lens vibration reduction group 115 to shift the shift lens, an aperture driver 202 that drives the aperture group 201, and a focus driver 302 that drives the focus group 112 to move the focus lens. In FIG. 2, the focus group 112, the lens vibration isolation group 115, and the aperture group 201 are shown separately from the zoom group 110, but are included in the zoom group 110 as will be described later.

[0020] The camera body 1 has a shutter unit 14, a shutter driver 15, an image sensor 16, an image processor 17, and a camera controller 12. The shutter unit 14 controls the amount of light collected by the imaging optical system in the interchangeable lens 101 and exposed to the image sensor 16. The image sensor 16 photoelectrically converts (captures) the subject image formed by the imaging optical system and outputs an image signal. The image processor 17 performs various image processes on the image signal and then generates an image signal. The display unit 9 displays the image signal (through image) output from the image processor 17, displays imaging parameters, and plays back and displays captured images recorded in the memory unit 13 or a recording medium (not shown).

[0021] The camera control unit 12 controls the driving of the aperture group 201 and the shutter unit 14 via the aperture drive unit 202 and the shutter drive unit 15 in accordance with the setting values ​​of the aperture value and shutter speed received from the operation unit 11. The camera control unit 12 also controls the driving of the focus group 112 in accordance with the image capture preparation operation (half-press operation) on the operation unit 11 (release button 5).

[0022] For example, when an autofocus operation is instructed, the focus detection unit 18 determines the focus state of the subject image formed on the image sensor 16 based on the image signal generated by the image processing unit 17, generates a focus signal, and sends it to the camera control unit 12. At the same time, the focus drive unit 302 detects the current position of the focus group 112 and sends a signal related to the current position of the focus group 112 to the camera control unit 12 via the lens control unit 104. The camera control unit 12 compares the focus state of the subject image with the current position of the focus group 112, calculates the focus drive amount from the amount of deviation, and sends it to the lens control unit 104. The lens control unit 104 controls the drive of the focus group 112 to the target position via the focus drive unit 302, and corrects the focus deviation of the subject image.

[0023] Furthermore, when an automatic exposure control operation is instructed, the camera control unit 12 receives a luminance signal generated by the image processing unit 17 and performs a photometric calculation. Based on the photometric calculation result, the camera control unit 12 controls the drive of the aperture group 201 in response to an image capture instruction operation (full press operation) on the operation unit 11 (release button 5). The camera control unit 12 also controls the drive of the shutter unit 14 via the shutter drive unit 15, and performs exposure processing using the image sensor 16.

[0024] The camera body 1 has a pitch shake detection unit 19 and a yaw shake detection unit 20 as shake detection means capable of detecting image shake due to hand shake or the like by the user. The pitch shake detection unit 19 and the yaw shake detection unit 20 each use an angular velocity sensor (vibration gyro) and an angular acceleration sensor to detect image shake in the pitch direction (rotation direction around the Z axis) and the yaw direction (rotation direction around the Y axis) and output a shake signal. The camera control unit 12 calculates the shift position of the lens vibration isolation group 115 (shift lens) in the Y axis direction using the shake signal from the pitch shake detection unit 19. Similarly, the camera control unit 12 calculates the shift position of the lens vibration isolation group 115 in the Z axis direction using the shake signal from the yaw shake detection unit 20. Then, the camera control unit 12 controls the drive of the lens vibration isolation group 115 to a target position according to the calculated shift positions in the pitch and yaw directions, and performs an image stabilization operation to reduce image shake during exposure and through-image display.

[0025] The interchangeable lens 101 has a zoom ring 103 for changing the angle of view of the imaging optical system, and a zoom detection unit 106 for detecting the angle of the zoom ring 103. The zoom detection unit 106 is configured using, for example, a resistive linear potentiometer, and detects the angle of the zoom ring 103 operated by the user as an absolute value. Information about the angle of view detected by the zoom detection unit 106 is sent to the lens control unit 104 and is reflected in various controls by the camera control unit 12 described above.

[0026] Some of the above-mentioned various pieces of information are recorded in the storage unit 13 or a recording medium together with the captured image.

[0027] The positional relationship between the interchangeable lens 101 and the components of the camera body 1 will be described below with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figures 3 and 4 are cross-sectional views of the camera system on an XY plane that includes the optical axis, and show the zoom retracted and extended states. Since the center line O substantially coincides with the optical axis determined by the imaging optical system, hereinafter this will be referred to as the optical axis.

[0028] This embodiment employs a seven-group zoom configuration as an example of an imaging optical system. Each zoom group moves to a predetermined optical position according to the angle of view, and forms a subject image on the imaging surface of the image sensor 16 using light from the subject. The focus group 112 functions as a second zoom group, and the lens vibration isolation group 115 functions as a fifth zoom group. The imaging optical system further includes a first zoom group 111, an aperture group 201, a third zoom group 113, a fourth zoom group 114, a sixth zoom group 116, and a seventh fixed group 117. The zoom group 110 is composed of an object-side zoom group 110a and an image-plane-side zoom group 110b. The object-side zoom group 110a includes the first zoom group 111. The image pickup surface side zoom group 110b includes a focus group 112, a third zoom group 113, a fourth zoom group 114, a lens vibration isolation group 115, a sixth zoom group 116, and an aperture group 201, which are connected together.

[0029] The configuration of the lens groups is not limited to that of this embodiment. For example, the lens vibration isolation group 115 may function as a third zoom group, or some of the lens groups may be fixed rather than movable.

[0030] The linear guide barrel (guide barrel) 107 is fixed to a fixed barrel 109, and is fixed to the lens mount 102 via the fixed barrel 109. Bayonet claws (not shown) are arranged at equal intervals on the outer peripheral surface of the linear guide barrel 107. Meanwhile, a circumferential groove (not shown) is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the cam barrel 108. Furthermore, the cam barrel 108 is connected to the zoom operation ring 103. When the zoom operation ring 103 is rotated, the cam barrel 108 rotates about the optical axis due to the engagement between the bayonet claws and the circumferential groove. The fixed barrel 109 fixes the first substrate 500, which will be described later, in a state where movement of the first substrate 500 in the optical axis direction is restricted.

[0031] The linear guide barrel 107 is formed with linear guide grooves that restrict the movement of each zoom group in the rotational direction and guide their linear movement in the optical axis direction. The cam barrel 108 is also formed with cam grooves that correspond to the object-side zoom group 110a and the imager-side zoom group 110b, each with a different angle of rotational locus. The object-side zoom group 110a and the imager-side zoom group 110b are each provided with a cam follower, and each cam follower engages with the corresponding linear guide groove and cam groove. When the user rotates the zoom operation ring 103, the cam barrel 108 rotates, and the cam followers engage with the linear guide grooves and cam grooves, causing the object-side zoom group 110a and the imager-side zoom group 110b to advance and retreat along their respective loci in the optical axis direction.

[0032] 5A and 5B are perspective views of the first substrate 500, the second substrate 600, and the third substrate 700 bonded together, which are included in the lens control unit 104. Figures 5A and 5B are views seen from different viewpoints. The center line O is the optical axis.

[0033] The first substrate 500 has a main plane perpendicular to the optical axis. The second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700 have main planes parallel to the optical axis and are disposed on the projection of the first substrate 500. The first bonding portion 501 is a solder bonding portion between the first substrate 500 and the second substrate 600. The second bonding portion 502 is a solder bonding portion between the first substrate 500 and the third substrate 700. The second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700 are bonded to the surface of the first substrate 500 facing the object. Note that, as long as the first substrate 500 and the second substrate 600 or the third substrate 700 are electrically conductive, these substrates may be bonded using a conductive resin.

[0034] The first substrate 500 also has a plurality of cutouts 503. The cutouts 503 have a shape that avoids the fastening portion between the fixed barrel 109 and the lens mount 102. The first joint portion 501 between the first substrate 500 and the second substrate 600 is not provided in the cutouts 503. Therefore, the second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700 are arranged so as to avoid the cutouts 503 in the optical axis direction.

[0035] The first screw holes 509 are disposed near the third substrate 700 (second joint portion 502) and are used to position and fix the first substrate 500 to the fixed barrel 109. By disposing the second joint portion 502 near the positioning and fixing portion between the first substrate 500 and the fixed barrel 109, deflection of the first substrate 500 in the event of a drop or the like can be suppressed, and external forces applied to the second joint portion 502 that could cause poor electrical connection can be reduced. The second screw holes 510 are used to position and fix the first substrate 500 to the fixed barrel 109. In this embodiment, the second screw holes 510 are not disposed near the first joint portion 501, but are preferably disposed near the first joint portion 501. Disposing the second screw holes 510 near the first joint portion 501 can reduce external forces applied to the first joint portion 501. In this embodiment, the first screw holes 509 and screws (not shown) that engage with the first screw holes 509 function as positioning members. Similarly, the second screw hole 510 and a screw (not shown) that engages with the second screw hole 510 function as a positioning member.

[0036] In this embodiment, the first substrate 500 is fixed to the fixed barrel 109 with screws, but it may also be positioned via a cushioning material such as rubber. Furthermore, when the first substrate 500 is positioned to the fixed barrel 109 via a cushioning material, the first substrate 500 does not have to be completely fixed to the fixed barrel 109. By not completely fixing the first substrate 500, it is possible to reduce vibrations transmitted to each substrate via the fixed barrel 109.

[0037] A microcomputer 505 is mounted on the main surface of the first substrate 500. An anti-vibration driving IC 601 that controls the anti-vibration driving unit 402 is mounted on the second substrate 600. An focus driving IC 701 that controls the focus driving unit 302 is mounted on the third substrate 700.

[0038] The first substrate 500 has an arc shape, and a first substrate inner diameter 506, which is the inner diameter of the first substrate 500, and a first substrate outer diameter 507, which is the outer diameter of the first substrate 500, are concentric. The centers are on the center line O. In other words, a lens (optical element) included in the imaging optical system is disposed on the inner diameter of the first substrate 500. Note that the shape of the first substrate 500 does not need to be a perfect arc shape, and parts of the first substrate inner diameter 506 and the first substrate outer diameter 507 may have irregular shapes such as straight lines.

[0039] Furthermore, first substrate width 508, which is the difference between the inner and outer diameters of first substrate 500, is desirably smaller than second substrate width 602, which is the contact length between second substrate 600 and first substrate 500, and third substrate width 702, which is the contact length between third substrate 700 and first substrate 500. Each substrate width needs to be wider than one side of an IC, which is an electrical element to be mounted.

[0040] Therefore, by mounting large electrical elements on the second substrate 600 or the third substrate 700, it is possible to narrow the first substrate width 508. This makes it possible to shorten the first substrate outer diameter 507. Furthermore, by mounting the microcomputer 505 on the second substrate 600, it is possible to further narrow the first substrate width 508 and further shorten the first substrate outer diameter 507.

[0041] Furthermore, soldering the first substrate 500 and the second substrate 600 together reduces the space required to mount the connector compared to connector bonding, making it possible to miniaturize the camera system.

[0042] The arrangement of the first substrate 500, the second substrate 600, and the third substrate 700 will be described below.

[0043] 6 is an explanatory diagram of the arrangement of the first substrate 500, the second substrate 600, and the third substrate 700. Figures 6(a) and 6(b) are a perspective view and an exploded perspective view of the first substrate 500, the second substrate 600, the third substrate 700, the fourth zoom group 114, the lens vibration isolation group 115, the sixth zoom group 116, and the seventh fixed group 117, respectively.

[0044] The fourth zoom group 114 includes a lens and a sixth barrel 140 that holds the lens. The sixth zoom group 116 includes a lens and a sixth barrel 160 that holds the lens. The sixth barrel 160 has cutouts 160a and 160b. The seventh fixed group 117 includes a lens and a seventh barrel 170 that holds the lens. The seventh barrel 170 has cutouts 170a and 170b. The second substrate 600 is disposed in the cutouts 160a and 170a. The third substrate 700 is disposed in the cutouts 160b and 170b.

[0045] Although the seventh lens barrel 170 does not move back and forth in the optical axis direction, the sixth lens barrel 160 moves back and forth in the optical axis direction in response to zoom operations. Therefore, even when the sixth lens barrel 160 moves closest to the imaging surface (image side), it is necessary to ensure a gap between the sixth lens barrel 160 and the second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700.

[0046] Furthermore, when an external force such as a drop impact is applied and the second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700 come into contact with surrounding components, the external force is applied to the first bonding portion 501 and the second bonding portion 502. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a gap of a predetermined value or more between the second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700 and the surrounding components in the substrate width direction, substrate thickness direction, and height direction. If it is difficult to ensure a gap of a predetermined value or more, an elastic body (limiting member) 141 may be disposed between the third substrate 700 and the fourth lens barrel 140 in the optical axis direction, for example. By sandwiching the third substrate 700 via the elastic body 141, the third substrate 700 does not come into contact with surrounding components when dropped, thereby reducing the external force applied to the second bonding portion 502.

[0047] 7A is a perspective view of the linear guide barrel 107. FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the fixed barrel 109. The openings 107a and 107b are formed by cutting the ends of the linear guide barrel 107 toward the optical axis direction. The second substrate 600 is disposed in the opening 107a and the cutout portion 109a of the fixed barrel 109. The third substrate 700 is disposed in the opening 107b and the cutout portion 109b of the fixed barrel 109. As described above, it is desirable to provide gaps of a predetermined value or more between the second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700 and the surrounding components in the board width direction, board thickness direction, and height direction so that external forces are not applied to the first joint portion 501 and the second joint portion 502. Therefore, openings 107a, 107b and cutouts 109a, 109b are provided on the outer diameter sides of the second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700 to provide a gap between the adjacent linear guide barrel 107 and the fixed barrel 109. By providing cutouts and openings in the fixed and movable components in this manner, the second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700 can be arranged in the optical axis direction of the first substrate 500. This makes it possible to arrange the first substrate 500 in the camera system with the second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700 joined to the subject-side main plane. This makes it possible to miniaturize the camera system while ensuring a sufficient substrate mounting area.

[0048] 8A and 8B are diagrams showing the state before and after the first substrate 500 is positioned and fixed to the fixed barrel 109. Fig. 8A is a diagram showing the completed assembly, and Fig. 8B is an exploded perspective view.

[0049] When viewed from the optical axis direction, the connection portions with the first substrate 500, such as the first joint portion 501 and the second joint portion 502, are arranged so as not to overlap with fixing portions of the fixed barrel 109 for fixing components (such as the linear guide barrel 107 and the lens mount 102) different from the first substrate 500. Furthermore, when viewed from the optical axis direction, at least a portion of the fixed barrel 109 is located inside the outer diameter 507 of the first substrate.

[0050] When the first substrate 500 is assembled into the fixed barrel 109, if the second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700 hit the fixed barrel 109 first, an external force is applied to the first joint portion 501 and the second joint portion 502, causing a poor electrical connection. Therefore, the fixed barrel 109 is provided with guide pins (guide portions) 109c and 109d for assembly of the first substrate 500. The guide pins 109c and 109d are arranged so as to overlap with the second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The first substrate 500 is provided with guide holes 511a and 511b corresponding to the guide pins 109c and 109d. It is desirable that the lengths of the guide pins 109c and 109d be longer than the lengths of the second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700 in the optical axis direction. The lengths of the guide pins 109c and 109d are longer than the lengths of the second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700 in the optical axis direction, so that assembly can be performed while maintaining a gap between the fixed barrel 109 and the second substrate 600 and the third substrate 700. Therefore, it is possible to assemble the first substrate 500 to the fixed barrel 109 while suppressing the generation of external force applied to the first joint portion 501 and the second joint portion 502.

[0051] In this embodiment, the lens control unit 104 includes the first substrate 500, the second substrate 600, and the third substrate 700, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the lens control unit 104 does not need to include the third substrate 700.

[0052] The basic configuration of the camera system of this embodiment is the same as that of the camera system of embodiment 1. In this embodiment, only the configuration different from embodiment 1 will be described, and the same reference numerals will be used for the same parts as those of embodiment 1, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0053] 9 and 10 are cross-sectional views of the camera system on the XY plane including the optical axis, showing the zoom retracted and extended states. Since the center line O substantially coincides with the optical axis determined by the imaging optical system, it will be hereinafter referred to as the optical axis.

[0054] In this embodiment, a four-group zoom configuration is adopted as an example of an imaging optical system. The focus group 112, the lens vibration reduction group 115, and the aperture group 451 function as a third zoom group 253. Furthermore, the imaging optical system includes a first zoom group 251, a second zoom group 252, and a fourth zoom group 254. Note that the configuration of the lens groups is not limited to the configuration of this embodiment. For example, the focus group 112 or the lens vibration reduction group 115 may function as the second zoom group. Also, some of the lens groups may be fixed rather than movable.

[0055] The linear guide barrel 107 guides a movable barrel 118 that is movable in the optical axis direction, holds a cam barrel 108 that is rotatable about the optical axis direction, and houses a lens holding member that holds a lens. Cam grooves (not shown) are arranged at equal intervals on the outer peripheral surface of the linear guide barrel 107. Meanwhile, cam followers (not shown) are provided on the inner peripheral surface of the cam barrel 108. Furthermore, the cam barrel 108 is connected to the zoom operation ring 103. When the zoom operation ring 103 is rotated, the cam barrel 108 moves along the optical axis while rotating about the optical axis due to the engagement between the cam grooves and the cam followers.

[0056] The linear guide barrel 107 is formed with linear guide grooves (not shown) that restrict the rotational movement of the second to fourth zoom groups 252-254 and guide their linear movement in the optical axis direction. Furthermore, a linear key is formed on the subject side of the outer periphery of the linear guide barrel 107 that restricts the rotational movement of the first zoom group 251 and guides its linear movement in the optical axis direction. Furthermore, the cam barrel 108 is formed with cam grooves that correspond to each zoom group and have trajectories with different angles in the rotational direction. Meanwhile, the first to fourth zoom groups 251-254 are each provided with a cam follower (not shown). The cam follower provided in the first zoom group 251 engages with a cam groove 108a formed on the outer periphery of the cam ring 108. The cam followers provided in the second to fourth zoom groups 252-254 engage with cam grooves 108b formed on the inner periphery of the cam ring 108. When the user rotates the zoom operation ring 103, the cam barrel 108 rotates, and the cam followers provided on each zoom group engage with the linear guide grooves or linear keys and cam grooves, causing each zoom group to simultaneously advance and retreat in the optical axis direction.

[0057] The arrangement of the first substrate 500 and the second substrate 610 will be described below. In Example 1, the second substrate 610 and the third substrate 700 are arranged by cutting out a portion of the barrel that holds the fixed components and lenses within the interchangeable lens 1. On the other hand, in this example, the second substrate 610 is arranged in openings provided in the linear guide barrel 107, the cam barrel 108, and the movable barrel 118. In other words, the barrel that holds the lenses is arranged so as not to overlap with the second substrate 610 in the radial direction.

[0058] Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram of the arrangement of the first substrate 500 and the second substrate 610. Figure 11(a) is a perspective view of the interchangeable lens 101 in which the first substrate 500 and the second substrate 610 are exposed. Figure 11(b) is a perspective view of the cam barrel 108.

[0059] The opening 107c is formed by cutting out the end of the linear guide barrel 107 in the optical axis direction. The opening 108c is formed by cutting out the end of the cam barrel 108 in the optical axis direction. As described above, a linear guide groove (not shown) is formed in the linear guide barrel 107. Furthermore, cam grooves 108a and 108b, which function as moving parts, are formed on the outer and inner circumferences of the cam barrel 108, respectively. The cam followers provided in each zoom group engage with the linear guide groove or linear keys and the cam groove 108a or cam groove 108b, causing each zoom group to simultaneously advance and retreat in the optical axis direction. Therefore, the above grooves cannot be cut out. Therefore, the openings 107c and 108c must be located so as not to overlap with the linear guide groove, cam groove, or connecting members such as cam followers. In other words, the length of the second substrate 610 in the optical axis direction is shorter than the distance from the first joint 501 to the cam grooves 108a and 108b.

[0060] As described above, it is possible to provide openings at the ends of multiple movable cylinders and arrange the second board 610 in a space-efficient manner while maintaining the configuration necessary for lens drive. This makes it possible to arrange the first board 500 in the camera system with the second board 600 joined to the main plane on the subject side. Therefore, it is possible to miniaturize the camera system while ensuring the board mounting area.

[0061] The basic configuration of the camera system of this embodiment is the same as that of the camera system of embodiment 1. In this embodiment, only the configuration different from embodiment 1 will be described, and the same reference numerals will be used for the same parts as those of embodiment 1, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0062] 12 is an explanatory diagram of the arrangement of the first substrate 520 and the second substrate 620, and is a partial perspective view of the interchangeable lens 101 with the first substrate 520 exposed. The first substrate 520 is positioned and fixed to the fixed barrel 109 with screws. The contact portion 621 is attached to the lens mount 102 and is mechanically and electrically connected to the contact portion of the camera mount 7. This enables the interchangeable lens 101 to take pictures as part of the camera system. A flexible printed circuit board (flexible circuit board) 622 electrically connects the first substrate 520 and the contact portion 621. Note that instead of the flexible printed circuit board 622, other wiring means such as lead wires may be used as means for electrically connecting the first substrate 520 and the contact portion 621.

[0063] In the interchangeable lens 101 of Examples 1 and 2, the second substrate is bonded to the object side of the first substrate, whereas in this example, the second substrate 620 is bonded to the imaging surface side of the first substrate 520.

[0064] In this embodiment, the lens mount 102 is attached to an exterior member (not shown), and there is no need to provide a cutout portion in the first substrate 520. Therefore, the second substrate 620 can be placed anywhere on the surface of the first substrate 520 as long as it avoids the contact portion 621 and the flexible printed circuit board 622. In other words, the second substrate 620 is placed so as not to overlap with the contact portion 621 in either the optical axis direction or the radial direction. The second substrate 620 is joined to the first substrate 520 in the gap from the lens mount 102 to the fixed barrel 109. In this way, by efficiently utilizing space, it is possible to miniaturize the camera system without increasing the overall lens length while ensuring the substrate mounting area.

[0065] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

Claims

1. An optical device comprising: a first substrate having a principal plane perpendicular to the optical axis direction of an optical system, and having inner and outer diameters centered in the optical axis direction; a second substrate connected to the first substrate, having a principal plane parallel to the optical axis direction; and a fixed tube that positions the first substrate while restricting movement of the first substrate in the optical axis direction, wherein, when viewed in the optical axis direction, a connection portion between the first substrate and the second substrate is arranged so that the fixed tube does not overlap a fixing portion for fixing a component other than the first substrate, and wherein, when viewed in the optical axis direction, at least a portion of the fixed tube is located inside the outer diameter.

2. The optical device according to claim 1, further comprising a positioning member arranged in the vicinity of said connection portion for positioning said first substrate on said fixed barrel.

3. The optical device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a limiting member for limiting movement of the second substrate in the optical axis direction.

4. An optical device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the fixed barrel is provided with a guide portion that guides the first substrate in the optical axis direction when the first substrate is attached to the fixed barrel.

5. An optical device as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: a cam barrel rotatable around the optical axis direction; a lens holding member arranged on the inner circumference of the cam barrel; and a connecting member connecting the cam barrel and the lens holding member, wherein the second substrate is arranged so as not to overlap with any of the cam barrel, the lens holding member, or the connecting member in either the optical axis direction or the radial direction.

6. An optical device as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: a cam barrel rotatable around the optical axis direction; a lens holding member arranged on the inner circumference of the cam barrel; and a connecting member connecting the cam barrel and the lens holding member, wherein the cam barrel is provided with a moving part that moves the lens holding member or the connecting member in the optical axis direction, and the second substrate is arranged between the first substrate and the moving part.

7. An optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a movable cylinder that is movable in a direction parallel to the optical axis, and the second substrate is arranged so as to overlap the movable cylinder in the optical axis direction.

8. An optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a cam barrel that is rotatable around the optical axis direction, and the second substrate is arranged so as to overlap the cam barrel in the optical axis direction.

9. An optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a lens holding member that holds a lens, the second substrate being arranged to overlap the lens holding member in the optical axis direction.

10. An optical device as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a guide tube that guides a movable tube that can move in a direction parallel to the optical axis direction, or that holds a cam tube that can rotate around the optical axis direction, or that houses a lens holding member that holds a lens, and the second substrate is positioned so as to overlap the guide tube in the optical axis direction.

11. An optical device as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the second substrate is equipped with a control unit for controlling a lens, the second substrate is positioned on a projection of the first substrate, and the width of the first substrate is smaller than one side of the control unit.

12. The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that an optical element is disposed on the inner diameter side of the first substrate.

13. The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are solder-bonded.

14. The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the first substrate and the second substrate are bonded together by a conductive resin.

15. An optical device comprising: a first substrate having a principal plane perpendicular to the optical axis direction of an optical system and having inner and outer diameters centered in the optical axis direction; a second substrate connected to the first substrate and having a principal plane parallel to the optical axis direction; a contact portion for electrically connecting the first substrate to an imaging device; and a mount for mechanically connecting the first substrate to the imaging device, wherein the second substrate is disposed between the first substrate and the mount so as not to overlap with the contact portion in either the optical axis direction or the radial direction.

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