CN116708979A

CN116708979A - Image pickup apparatus

Info

Publication number: CN116708979A
Application number: CN202310181670.7A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 井上渚纱; 山名一彰; 水谷将马; 户取祐树; 浅井良和; 足立圭祐; 长津颂
Original assignee: Canon Inc
Current assignee: Canon Inc
Priority date: 2022-03-03
Filing date: 2023-03-01
Publication date: 2023-09-05

Abstract

An image pickup apparatus comprising: an image sensor, an optical filter, a holding member configured to hold the optical filter, a driving unit configured to move the holding member, a grip portion to be gripped by a user, and a control board. The optical filter is movable by the driving unit between a first position inserted into the imaging range and a second position retracted from the imaging range in a direction from the first position toward the grip. The second position is located between the grip portion and the control panel.

Description

Image pickup apparatus

Technical Field

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to an image pickup apparatus.

Background

An image pickup apparatus that can take an image using an optical filter such as a Neutral Density (ND) filter or the like is conventionally known. Japanese patent No. 6794600 discloses an image pickup apparatus including a plurality of ND filters movable up and down. Japanese patent application laid-open No. 2017-151264 discloses an image pickup apparatus to which an external filter can be attached.

The image pickup apparatus disclosed in japanese patent No. 6794600 requires a space for the optical filter to move up and down, and thus becomes large. In the image pickup apparatus disclosed in japanese patent application laid-open No. 2017-151264, in order to replace the optical filter, it is necessary to disassemble the lens and remove the optical filter, and the optical filter cannot be easily switched.

Disclosure of Invention

An aspect of the embodiments provides an image pickup apparatus that can easily switch between a use state and a non-use state of an optical filter without increasing the size of the image pickup apparatus.

An image pickup apparatus according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes: an image sensor; an optical filter; a holding member configured to hold the optical filter; a driving unit configured to move the holding member; a grip portion to be gripped by a user; and (5) a control board. The optical filter is movable by the driving unit between a first position inserted into an imaging range and a second position retracted from the imaging range in a direction from the first position toward the grip portion. The second position is located between the grip portion and the control panel. An image pickup apparatus according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes an image sensor, an optical filter, a holding member, a driving unit, and a grip. The optical filter is movable by the driving unit between a first position inserted in an imaging range and a second position retracted from the imaging range by rotating in a direction from the first position toward the grip portion. An image pickup apparatus according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes an image sensor, an optical filter, a holding member, and a driving unit. The optical filter is movable by the driving unit between a first position inserted in an imaging range and a second position retracted from the imaging range, and the optical filter is insertable and retractable at the second position.

An image pickup apparatus according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes: an image sensor; a first optical member; a second optical member arranged parallel to the first optical member in an optical axis direction; and a grip portion to be gripped by a user. The first optical member and the second optical member are each movable between a first position inserted in an imaging range and a second position retracted from the imaging range by rotating in a direction from the first position toward the grip portion. An image pickup apparatus according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes an image sensor, an optical filter, an optical member disposed between the image sensor and the optical filter, a vibrator configured to vibrate the optical member, at least one processor, and a memory coupled to the at least one processor, the memory having instructions that, when executed by the processor, perform operations as a control unit configured to control the vibrator. The optical filter is movable between a first position inserted into the imaging range and a second position retracted from the imaging range. The control unit changes control depending on whether the optical filter is located at the first position or the second position.

Other features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Hereinafter, the term "unit" may refer to a software context, a hardware context or a combination of software and hardware context related. In the context of software, the term "unit" refers to a function, application, software module, function, routine, set of instructions or program that can be executed by a programmable processor, such as a microprocessor, central Processing Unit (CPU), or specially designed programmable device or controller. The memory contains instructions or programs that, when executed by the CPU, cause the CPU to perform operations corresponding to the units or functions. In the hardware context, the term "unit" refers to a hardware element, circuit, component, physical structure, system, module, or subsystem. Which may include mechanical, optical, or electronic components, or any combination thereof. Which may include active (e.g., transistors) or passive (e.g., capacitors) components. Which may include semiconductor devices having a substrate and other material layers with different concentrations of conductivity. Which may include a CPU or programmable processor that may execute programs stored in memory to perform specified functions. Which may include logic elements (e.g., and, or) implemented by transistor loops or any other switching loop. In a combination of software and hardware contexts, the term "unit" or "loop" refers to any combination of software and hardware contexts as described above. Furthermore, the terms "element," "component," "member" or "device" can also refer to a "circuit" that is integrated or not integrated with the encapsulation material.

Drawings

Fig. 1A and 1B are external perspective views of an image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 1.

Fig. 2 is a block diagram of an image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 1.

Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 1.

Fig. 4A to 4C illustrate states when the optical filter according to embodiment 1 is driven.

Fig. 5 is a sectional view of the image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 1.

Fig. 6A to 6C are bottom perspective views of the image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 1.

Fig. 7A and 7B are external perspective views of an image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 2.

Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 2.

Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view of an optical filter unit according to embodiment 2.

Fig. 10A to 10C illustrate a state when the optical filter unit according to embodiment 2 is driven.

Fig. 11A to 11C are sectional views of an image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 2.

Fig. 12A to 12C are structural diagrams when the optical filter according to embodiment 3 is driven.

Fig. 13 is an exploded perspective view of an optical filter holding unit according to embodiment 3.

Fig. 14A and 14B show state transitions of the optical filter holding unit according to embodiment 3.

Fig. 15 shows a locking member of an optical filter holding unit according to embodiment 3.

Fig. 16A and 16B show a locked state of the optical filter holding unit according to embodiment 3.

Fig. 17 is a structural view of a holding member according to embodiment 4.

Fig. 18A to 18C are structural diagrams when the optical filter according to embodiment 4 is driven.

Fig. 19 is a bottom perspective view of the image pickup apparatus when the optical filter is replaced in embodiment 4.

Fig. 20 is a schematic diagram in the case where the structure of embodiment 4 is applied to embodiment 2.

Fig. 21A and 21B are structural diagrams of an optical filter determination unit according to embodiment 5.

Fig. 22A and 22B are structural diagrams of an optical filter determination unit according to embodiment 5.

Fig. 23 is a structural diagram of an optical filter determination unit according to embodiment 6.

Fig. 24A to 24C are structural diagrams of an optical filter cover according to embodiment 7.

Fig. 25A and 25B show a state in the case where the image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 8 is powered off.

Fig. 26A and 26B show a state in the case where the light shielding filter holding member according to embodiment 8 is driven.

Fig. 27A and 27B show a state in the case where the light shielding filter holding member is retracted according to embodiment 8.

Fig. 28A and 28B show a state in the case where the optical filter holding member according to embodiment 8 is driven.

Fig. 29A and 29B show a state in the case where the optical filter holding member according to embodiment 8 is retracted.

Fig. 30 is a sectional view of the image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 8.

Fig. 31 is a timing chart showing states of a light shielding filter holding member and an optical filter holding member according to embodiment 8.

Fig. 32 is an exploded perspective view of the imaging unit according to embodiment 9 and embodiment 10.

Fig. 33 illustrates a piezoelectric element according to embodiment 9 and embodiment 10.

Fig. 34 is a side view showing vibration shapes of the optical low-pass filter and the piezoelectric element according to embodiment 9 and embodiment 10.

Fig. 35A and 35B show the relationship among the vibration frequency, the amplitude, and the foreign matter removal operation mode of the optical low-pass filter excited by the piezoelectric element according to embodiment 9 and embodiment 10.

Fig. 36A and 36B are sectional views showing states before and after the foreign matter removal operation of the optical low-pass filter in the inserted state of the optical filter according to embodiment 9 and embodiment 10.

Fig. 37A and 37B are sectional views showing states before and after foreign matter removal operation of the optical low-pass filter in the retracted state of the optical filter according to embodiment 9 and embodiment 10.

Fig. 38 is a flowchart showing control of the foreign matter removal operation according to embodiment 9.

Fig. 39 is a flowchart showing control of the foreign matter removal operation according to embodiment 10.

Detailed Description

Embodiments according to the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Corresponding elements in the various figures will be designated by the same reference numerals. The present embodiment is an example of realizing the present disclosure, and may be appropriately modified or changed according to the configuration and various conditions of an apparatus to which the present disclosure is applied, and the present disclosure is not limited to each example below. The respective portions of the embodiments described below may be appropriately combined.

Example 1

Referring now to fig. 1A and 1B, an image pickup apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig. 1A and 1B are external perspective views of an image pickup apparatus (camera body) 100 according to the present embodiment. Fig. 1A is an external perspective view of the image pickup apparatus 100 as viewed from the front side, and shows a state in which a lens apparatus (interchangeable lens) 104 (see fig. 2) attachable to the image pickup apparatus 100 is detached. Fig. 1B is an external perspective view of the image pickup apparatus 100 as viewed from the rear side. The present embodiment describes an imaging system in which the lens apparatus 104 is attachable to and detachable from the image pickup apparatus (camera body) 100, but the imaging system is not limited to the present embodiment, and is applicable to an image pickup apparatus in which a camera body and a lens apparatus are integrated with each other.

The image pickup apparatus 100 includes a grip 101 to be gripped by a user to stably hold the image pickup apparatus 100. A shutter button 102 as a switch for starting imaging is provided on top of the grip 101. A mount unit (lens mount) 103 is provided in front of the image pickup apparatus 100, and the lens apparatus 104 is attachable and detachable with respect to the image pickup apparatus 100 via the mount unit 103. An opening 190 (see fig. 4A to 4C) is provided inside the mount unit 103 to define an imaging range. The mount contact 105 electrically connects the image pickup apparatus 100 and the lens apparatus 104, supplies power to the lens apparatus 104, and performs lens control and communication of lens data by electric signals. When the lens apparatus 104 is exchanged, the lens apparatus 104 can be detached by pressing the lens unlocking button 106 to release the engagement.

The power switch 107 is used to power on or off the image pickup apparatus 100. The main electronic dial 108 and the sub electronic dial 119 are rotation operation members rotatable clockwise and counterclockwise, and the rotation operation can change various setting values such as the F number and shutter speed. The mode switching dial 109 is an operation unit for switching an imaging mode between various modes such as a shutter speed-first imaging mode, an F-number-first imaging mode, and a moving (or moving) image capturing mode. The setting button 110 is a push button, and is mainly used for determining a selection item.

The liquid crystal monitor 111 displays various setting screens, photographed images, and live view images of the image capturing apparatus 100. An Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) 112 is a viewfinder that can be used to display various setting screens, captured images, and live-view images of the image capturing apparatus 100. The multi-function button 113 is a push button, and a user can arbitrarily assign and use various setting switches related to imaging. The display panel 114 displays various setting states of the image pickup apparatus 100 such as an imaging mode and an ISO speed. The display panel 114 performs display even if the image pickup apparatus 100 is powered off.

The accessory shoe 115 has accessory contacts 116 to which various accessories such as an external flash and a microphone can be attached. The medium slot cover 173 may be opened and closed, and in the case of opening thereof, the external recording medium 148 (see fig. 2) such as an SD card or the like may be inserted into or withdrawn from the internal medium slot (recording medium insertion portion 172 (see fig. 8)).

Referring now to fig. 2, the electrical configuration and operation of the image pickup apparatus 100 will be described. Fig. 2 is a block diagram of the image pickup apparatus 100, and shows a state in which the lens apparatus 104 is attached. Elements identical to those in fig. 1A and 1B will be designated by identical reference numerals.

The MPU 130 is a small Central Processing Unit (CPU) (control unit) built in the image pickup apparatus 100. A Time Measurement Circuit (TMC) 131, a shutter drive circuit 132, a switch sense circuit 133, a power supply circuit 134, a battery check circuit 135, a video signal processing circuit 136, an optical filter drive circuit 137, and a piezoelectric element drive circuit 145 are connected to the MPU 130. The MPU 130 controls the operation of the image pickup apparatus 100, processes input information and instructions, and controls the respective elements. The MPU 130 has an EEPROM that can store time information and various setting information from the time measurement circuit 131.

The MPU 130 also communicates with a lens control loop 138 built in the lens apparatus 104 via the mount contact 105. Thus, the MPU 130 can control the operations of the focus lens 141 and the electromagnetic aperture (aperture, diaphragm opening) 142 via the AF drive circuit 139 or the aperture drive circuit 140. Although fig. 2 schematically shows a single focus lens 141 as the imaging optical system of the lens apparatus 104, the imaging optical system actually includes many lens units.

The AF drive circuit 139 is connected to, for example, a stepping motor (not shown) and drives the focus lens 141. The MPU 130 calculates a focus lens driving amount from the detected defocus amount using the focus signal read out from the image sensor 121, and transmits a focus command including the focus lens driving amount to the lens control circuit 138. The lens control circuit 138 having received the focus command controls driving of the focus lens 141 through the AF driving circuit 139. Thus, autofocus (AF) is performed.

The diaphragm driving circuit 140 is connected to a diaphragm actuator such as a stepping motor (not shown), and drives a plurality of diaphragm blades (not shown) forming a diaphragm in an electromagnetic diaphragm (diaphragm opening) 142. Driving a plurality of diaphragm blades can change the diaphragm size (diaphragm diameter) and adjust the light quantity.

The MPU 130 calculates the diaphragm driving amount of the electromagnetic diaphragm 142 based on the luminance signal read out from the image sensor 121, and transmits a diaphragm command including the diaphragm driving amount to the lens control circuit 138. That is, the MPU 130 communicates with the lens control loop 138 to control the electromagnetic aperture 142. The lens control circuit 138 that has received the diaphragm command controls driving of the electromagnetic diaphragm 142 through the diaphragm driving circuit 140. Thereby, an appropriate aperture value (F number) is automatically set.

A mechanical Focal Plane Shutter (FPS) 150 is driven by a shutter drive circuit 132. During imaging, when a user presses the shutter button 102, a front curtain shutter (not shown) moves to open the shutter, and a rear curtain shutter (not shown) moves to close the shutter according to a required exposure time. Thereby controlling the exposure time to the image sensor 121.

The optical filter 160 is an optical member (or element) that imparts a special effect to an image by diffusing incident light or attenuating a specific wavelength range. The optical filter 160 includes an ND filter that attenuates the amount of incident light at a constant ratio, a Polarized Light (PL) filter that suppresses reflected light using a polarizing film, and a soft filter (soft filter) that diffuses light to create a soft representation, but the optical filter 160 is not limited to these filters. By the optical filter driving circuit 137, the optical filter 160 can be driven and its position is movable. The detailed structure of the optical filter 160 will be described below.

The imaging unit 120 mainly includes an optical low-pass filter 122, an optical low-pass filter holding member 123, a piezoelectric element (piezoelectric member) 124, and an image sensor 121, each of which is configured as a unit. The image sensor 121 photoelectrically converts an object image (optical image) formed by the lens device 104. In the present embodiment, the image sensor 121 is a Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) sensor, but is not limited to the present embodiment. The image sensor 121 may use a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) sensor, a Charge Injection Device (CID) sensor, or the like. The optical low-pass filter 122 disposed in front of the image sensor 121 is a single birefringent plate made of a crystal and having a rectangular shape. The piezoelectric element 124 is a single-plate piezoelectric element (piezoelectric element) that vibrates by the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145, and the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145 receives an instruction from the MPU 130 and transmits the vibration to the optical low-pass filter 122. By this vibration, minute dust attached to the optical low-pass filter 122 can be shaken off.

The video signal processing circuit 136 manages overall image processing such as filtering and data compression processing on the electric signal obtained from the image sensor 121. Image data for monitor display from the video signal processing circuit 136 is displayed on the liquid crystal monitor 111 and the electronic viewfinder 112 via the liquid crystal driving circuit 144. The video signal processing circuit 136 may also store the image data in the buffer memory 147 through the memory controller 146 according to an instruction from the MPU 130. The video signal processing circuit 136 may also perform image data compression processing such as JPEG. In the case of performing continuous imaging, the image data may be temporarily stored in the buffer memory 147, and the unprocessed image data may be sequentially read out by the memory controller 146. Therefore, the video signal processing circuit 136 can sequentially perform image processing and compression processing regardless of the speed of input image data.

The storage controller 146 has a function of storing image data in the external recording medium 148 and a function of reading image data stored in the external recording medium 148. The external recording medium 148 is an SD card, a CF card, or the like that can be removed from the image pickup apparatus 100, but is not limited to these examples.

The switch sensing circuit 133 transmits an input signal to the MPU 130 according to the operation state of each switch. The switch SW1 (102 a) is turned on by a first stroke (half-press) of the shutter button 102. The switch SW2 is turned on by the second stroke (full depression) of the shutter button 102 (102 b). When the switch SW2 (102 b) is turned on, an instruction is transmitted to the MPU 130 to start image capturing. Connected to the switch sensing circuit 133 are the main electronic dial 108, the mode switching dial 109, the power switch 107, the setting knob 110, the multi-function knob 113, and the like.

The MPU 130 communicates information via the accessory communication control loop 118, the accessory contacts 116 to use the functions of the accessory not shown. The power supply circuit 134 distributes and supplies power from the battery 143 to each element in the image pickup apparatus 100. The battery check circuit 135 is connected to the battery 143, and notifies the MPU 130 of information on the remaining amount of the battery 143, and the like.

Referring now to fig. 3, the internal structure of the image pickup apparatus 100 will be described. Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the image pickup apparatus 100. The image pickup apparatus 100 has a structure mainly covered by exterior pieces including a front cover 10, a top cover 11, and a rear cover 12, and an operation member and a display member are attached to each exterior piece. Along an optical axis (OP) 1000 of the imaging optical system, a holding member 200, an imaging unit 120, and a main board (control board) 180 are arranged in order from the object side, and an optical filter 160 is mounted on the holding member 200. The optical filter 160 may use any optical member such as ND filter, PL filter, softening filter (low-pass filter), and the like. In addition, the image capturing apparatus 100 can operate normally even without the optical filter 160 inserted.

Referring now to fig. 4A to 4C, the structure and switching operation of the optical filter 160 will be described. Fig. 4A to 4C illustrate driving of the optical filter 160, and show states of components related to the optical filter 160 and the holding member 200 as viewed from the rear side of the image pickup apparatus 100.

The optical filter 160 is inserted into the holding member 200 and held by the holding member 200. The holding member 200 has a gear shape 200a and is attached to the front cover 10 in a rotatable manner around the gear shape 200 a. A motor (actuator, drive unit) 201 for driving the optical filter 160 is attached to the front cover 10, and a worm wheel 201a is attached to a drive shaft of the motor 201. The worm wheel 201a can rotate the holding member 200 by transmitting a rotational force to the gear shape 200a of the holding member 200 via the intermediate gear 202. The right side of the front cover 10 is provided with a battery housing portion 170 for housing the battery 143.

The present embodiment assigns the switching function of insertion/retraction of the optical filter 160 to the multifunction knob 113. The operation of driving the optical filter 160 by the user's operation will now be described. Other buttons, dials, switches, setting screens, etc. may be used for the switching operation of the optical filter 160.

Fig. 4A shows a state (inserted state) in which the optical filter 160 is inserted into an opening 190 provided inside the mount unit 103 of the image pickup apparatus 100 and overlaps with the opening 190. The opening 190 defines an imaging range. Thus, light incident on the image sensor 121 passes through the optical filter 160, and various imaging performances can be obtained due to the effect of the optical filter 160. For example, an ND filter inserted as the optical filter 160 can attenuate incident light, and can provide long-time exposure imaging and overexposure suppression even in a bright environment.

In the case where the multifunction knob 113 is pressed in the inserted state shown in fig. 4A, the switch sensing circuit 133 detects the pressing. At this time, the MPU 130 transmits an instruction to drive the motor 201, and the motor 201 starts rotating through the optical filter drive circuit 137. The rotation of the motor 201 is transmitted from the worm wheel 201a to the gear shape 200a via the intermediate gear 202, and the holding member 200 having the gear shape 200a starts to rotate. Fig. 4B shows a state in the middle of rotation (intermediate state).

The holding member 200 moves to the retracted state shown in fig. 4C through the intermediate state shown in fig. 4B. The rotation axis of the gear shape 200a is located between the opening 190 and the bottom surface side of the image pickup apparatus 100, and between the optical axis 1000 and the short side of the opening 190 on the grip portion 101 side. Thereby, as shown in fig. 4B, the holding member 200 can be rotated without interfering with internal components such as the top cover 11. The motor 201 is also disposed closer to the bottom surface than the optical axis 1000 and the opening 190, and the power transmission distance to the gear shape 200a is short, enhancing the driving efficiency.

In the case where the holding member 200 moves to the retracted position (second position) shown in fig. 4C, the optical filter drive circuit 137 stops the motor 201 in response to a detection signal from a position sensor (not shown). The position sensor means a position detector such as a photo reflector, etc., but the drive stop timing may be determined based on any means such as rotation angle detection of the motor 201 and a mechanical switch.

Fig. 4C shows a state (retracted state) in which the holding member 200 is rotated by substantially 90 degrees on a plane parallel to the imaging unit 120 from the inserted state shown in fig. 4A and retracted from the opening 190. By retracting the holding member 200, light condensed by the lens device 104 enters the image sensor 121 without passing through the optical filter 160.

Fig. 5 is a sectional view of the image pickup apparatus 100, showing a section taken along a line A-A in fig. 4C. As shown in fig. 5, the holding member 200 is retracted to the space between the opening 190 and the battery housing portion 170, that is, between the opening 190 and the grip portion 101. By rotating the holding member 200 by substantially 90 degrees from the inserted state, the short side of the optical filter 160 becomes substantially parallel to the X direction (horizontal direction of the image pickup apparatus 100) and is accommodated in the space between the opening 190 and the battery housing section 170.

In the case where the user intends to reinsert the optical filter 160 into the opening 190, the multifunction button 113 is pressed in the retracted state shown in fig. 4C to rotate the motor 201 in the direction opposite to that in the above-described operation. Thus, as shown in fig. 4A, the optical filter 160 is inserted through the intermediate state shown in fig. 4B. In the case where the optical filter 160 moves to the position of the insertion state (first position) shown in fig. 4A, the optical filter drive circuit 137 stops the motor 201 by the detection signal of the position sensor (not shown), as in the retracted state.

This structure enables the optical filter 160 to be inserted or retracted with respect to the optical axis 1000 without interfering with internal components or internal units of the image capturing apparatus 100. Therefore, the optical filter 160 can be integrated without enlarging the image capturing apparatus 100, and the optical filter 160 can be easily switched between the insertion state and the retracted state.

Referring now to fig. 6A to 6C, the structure of the bottom surface of the image pickup apparatus 100 and the operation during replacement of the optical filter 160 will be described. Fig. 6A to 6C are perspective views of the image pickup apparatus 100 as viewed from the bottom side when the optical filter 160 is inserted and withdrawn.

Fig. 6A shows the bottom surface of the image pickup apparatus 100 in normal use. A battery cover 171 is provided on the bottom surface of the image pickup apparatus 100 for accessing the battery housing 170 and inserting/removing the battery 143. An optical filter cover 210 for accessing the holding member 200 and for inserting and withdrawing the optical filter 160 is provided near the battery cover 171.

Fig. 6B illustrates that the user opens the optical filter cover 210 in the retracted state of the holding member 200 illustrated in fig. 4C. A filter replacement opening 211 is provided inside the optical filter cover 210, and exposes the retracted holding member 200 and the short side of the optical filter 160. A recess 10a is provided at the bottom of the image pickup apparatus 100, and a user can pick up and take out the optical filter 160. The exit structure of the optical filter 160 is not limited to that of the present embodiment. For example, the following exit structure may be used: once pushed in, the optical filter 160 is unlocked and ejected by an urging force such as a spring or the like.

Fig. 6C shows the optical filter 160 being withdrawn (pulled). In this way, the user can insert the optical filter 160 into the holding member 200 and withdraw the optical filter 160 from the holding member 200, and replace the optical filter 160 with various filters that are desired to be used. According to the present embodiment, although the battery cover 171 and the optical filter cover 210 are spaced apart, a common cover member may be used. This structure enables the optical filter 160 to be replaced by the bottom surface of the image pickup apparatus 100.

As described above, the optical filter 160 can be moved by the motor 201 between the first position (position in the insertion state) in which the optical filter 160 is inserted in the imaging range (the opening 190) and the second position (position in the retreat state) in which the optical filter 160 is rotated from the first position in the direction toward the grip 101 and retreated from the imaging range. The first position is a position where the optical filter 160 covers an imaging range (including an imaging region of the optical axis 1000), and the second position is a position where the optical filter 160 does not overlap with the imaging range. The optical filter 160 may be rotated approximately 90 degrees from the first position to the second position. The second position may be a position between the battery 143 and the imaging range that can be withdrawn from the image pickup apparatus 100.

The optical filter 160 may retract from the first position to the second position on a plane substantially parallel to a plane orthogonal to the optical axis 1000 of the imaging optical system. The optical filter 160 is rotatable and movable about an axis (rotation axis of the gear shape 200 a) provided at the bottom side of the image pickup apparatus 100 with respect to the optical axis 1000. The axis may be disposed at the bottom side of the imaging range. The axis may be disposed between the optical axis 1000 and a short side close to the grip 101 out of two short sides defining an imaging range when viewed from the rear side of the image pickup apparatus 100. The motor 201 may be disposed closer to the bottom of the image pickup apparatus 100 than the optical axis 1000. The motor 201 may be disposed closer to the bottom of the image pickup apparatus 100 than the imaging range. The optical filter 160 may be disposed between the image sensor 121 and the mount unit 103. The imaging range may be defined by an opening 190 provided inside the mount unit 103.

The present embodiment provides an image pickup apparatus capable of easily switching between a use state (insertion state) and a non-use state (retreat state) of an optical filter without increasing the size.

Example 2

An image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 2 will be described. In embodiment 1, a general image pickup apparatus 100 has a single grip 101. In the present embodiment, the image pickup apparatus 100a has two grip portions. In the image pickup apparatus 100a according to the present embodiment, those elements corresponding to those of the image pickup apparatus 100 of embodiment 1 will be designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Referring now to fig. 7A and 7B, differences between the image pickup apparatus 100a according to the present embodiment and the image pickup apparatus 100 according to embodiment 1 will be described. Fig. 7A and 7B are perspective views of the image capturing apparatus 100a according to the present embodiment. Fig. 7A is an external perspective view of the image pickup apparatus 100a as viewed from the front side, showing that the lens apparatus 104 that is attachable to the image pickup apparatus 100a and detachable from the image pickup apparatus 100a has been detached. Fig. 7B is an external perspective view of the image pickup apparatus 100a as viewed from the rear side. The image pickup apparatus 100a includes a grip 101 to be gripped by a user to hold the image pickup apparatus 100a in a normal position, and a grip 304 to be gripped by the user to hold the image pickup apparatus 100a in a vertical position. A detailed description of the grip state of the normal position and the vertical position will be omitted.

Referring now to fig. 8, a structure of the image pickup apparatus 100a according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the image pickup apparatus 100 a. As with the image pickup apparatus 100 according to embodiment 1, the exterior of the image pickup apparatus 100a mainly includes a front cover 10, a top cover 11, and a rear cover 12. The battery 143 is disposed at a lower portion of the image pickup apparatus 100a, and is capable of being inserted and withdrawn in the arrow S51 direction. The external recording medium 148 can be inserted into a medium slot 172 provided in the side of the image pickup apparatus 100a in the direction of arrow S52. The medium slot 172 has a push lever by which the external recording medium 148 can be inserted and withdrawn. A mount unit 103 and an imaging unit 120 are provided on the optical axis 1000, with the optical filter unit 320 according to the present embodiment disposed in the middle.

Referring now to fig. 9, the structure of the optical filter unit 320 according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the optical filter unit 320. The components of the optical filter unit 320 are attached to the base member 321. The optical filter 160 is held by a holding member 322. The holding member 322 has a rack shape 322a.

The holding member 322 is engaged with an upper rail 323 and a lower rail 324 as guide members, and can drive the optical filter 160 in a specific direction. A motor (actuator, drive unit) 325 for driving the optical filter 160 is disposed below the holding member 322, and a pinion 325a is attached to a drive shaft of the motor 325. The first gear 326, the second gear 327, and the third gear 328 are rotatably attached to a shaft provided on the base member 321.

Referring now to fig. 10A to 10C, the state transition of the optical filter unit 320 will be described. Fig. 10A to 10C illustrate a state when the optical filter unit 320 is driven. Fig. 10A shows an inserted state in which the optical filter 160 overlaps with the opening 190. Fig. 10B shows a state in which the optical filter 160 moves from the insertion state to the retreat state. Fig. 10C shows a retracted state in which the optical filter 160 is retracted from the opening 190.

In the inserted state of fig. 10A, in the case where the user presses the multifunction knob 113, the optical filter unit 320 starts to move toward the retracted state. The rotation of the motor 325 is transmitted to the rack shape 322a of the holding member 322 via the first gear 326, the second gear 327, and the third gear 328. In the case where the optical filter 160 is guided by the upper rail 323 and the lower rail 324, the optical filter 160 passes from the insertion state (fig. 10A) to the retreat state (fig. 10C) through the intermediate state (fig. 10B). The optical filter 160 that has reached the retracted state receives a detection signal from a position sensor (not shown) and stops.

In the retracted state shown in fig. 10C, the user who wants to reinsert the optical filter 160 presses the multi-function button 113, and the motor 325 rotates in the direction opposite to the direction of the above-described operation. Accordingly, the optical filter 160 moves to the insertion state shown in fig. 10A through the intermediate state shown in fig. 10B. As in the retracted state, the optical filter 160 that has reached the inserted state receives a detection signal from a position sensor (not shown) and stops. Due to the above-described structure, the optical filter 160 can be integrated without increasing the size of the image pickup apparatus 100a, and the optical filter 160 can be easily switched between the insertion state and the retracted state.

Referring now to fig. 11A to 11C, the configuration of the optical filter 160 and the holding member 322 in the image capturing apparatus 100a during the transition from the insertion state to the retracted state will be described. Fig. 11A to 11C are sectional views of the image capturing apparatus 100 a. Fig. 11A shows the front cover 10, the optical filter 160, the holding member 322, the medium tank 172, and the main board (control board) 180 as viewed from the rear side of the image pickup apparatus 100 a. Fig. 11B is a sectional view taken along line B-B in fig. 11A when the optical filter 160 is inserted. Fig. 11C is a sectional view taken along line B-B in fig. 11A when the optical filter 160 is retracted.

As shown in fig. 11C, in the retracted state, the optical filter 160 is retracted between the grip portion 101 and the medium tank 172 or the main plate 180. Therefore, the optical filter 160 can be retracted to the retracted state without increasing the size of the image pickup apparatus 100a, and interference with internal components such as the main plate 180 and the medium tank 172 is avoided.

The present embodiment does not discuss the replacement unit for the optical filter 160, but the replacement unit for the optical filter 160 may be provided as in embodiment 1. Embodiment 1 provides the optical filter cover 210 for replacing the optical filter 160 on the bottom surface of the image pickup apparatus 100, but the present embodiment may provide the optical filter cover on the side surface of the image pickup apparatus 100 viewed in the arrow S52 direction along which the holding member 322 is retracted. The optical filter cover 210 may be integrated with the medium tank cover 173.

As described above, the optical filter 160 can be moved by the motor 325 between the first position (position in the insertion state) inserted into the imaging range (opening 190) and the second position (position in the retracted state) retracted from the imaging range from the first position toward the grip portion 101. The second position is a position between the grip portion 101 and the control board (main board 180). The image pickup apparatus 100a may have a recording medium insertion portion (medium slot 172) with respect to which a recording medium (external recording medium 148) can be inserted and withdrawn. The second position is a position between the grip portion 101 and the recording medium insertion portion. The optical filter 160 may be linearly moved in parallel with a plane orthogonal to the optical axis 1000 by a motor 325. The moving direction of the optical filter 160 may be substantially coincident with the insertion/ejection direction of the recording medium. The moving direction of the optical filter 160 may be substantially coincident with the insertion/ejection direction of the battery 143 that can be inserted and ejected with respect to the image pickup apparatus 100 a.

The present embodiment discusses a structure for controlling the insertion/withdrawal of the optical filter 160 in response to the user pressing the multi-function button 113, but the structure is not limited to the present embodiment. For example, in the case where the insertion/ejection of the optical filter 160 can be adjusted as one of the parameters used for exposure control, the image pickup apparatus 100a may automatically insert and eject the optical filter 160 according to the brightness of the subject.

Example 3

An image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 3 will now be described. This embodiment will explain in detail a mechanism for replacing the optical filter in the structure described in embodiment 1. Since the electrical configuration and operation of the image pickup apparatus in the present embodiment are the same as those according to embodiment 1, they are described using the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The structure and switching operation of the optical filter 160 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 12A to 12C. Fig. 12A to 12C show components related to the optical filter 160 and the optical filter holding unit 950, respectively, including an optical filter base member 951 and an optical filter holding member 955 viewed from the rear side of the image pickup apparatus 100.

When the optical filter 160 is fixed to the optical filter holding member 955, the optical filter 160 is held by the optical filter base member 951. The unit including the optical filter 160, the optical filter holding member 955, the optical filter base member 951, and the like is referred to as an optical filter holding unit 950, and details will be described below with reference to fig. 13. The optical filter base member 951 has a gear shape 951a, and is attached to the front cover 10 in such a manner as to be rotatable about a rotation axis center P1 of the gear shape 951 a. A motor 901 for driving the optical filter base member 951 is attached to the front cover 10, and a worm wheel 901a is attached to a drive shaft of the motor 901. The worm wheel 901a is capable of rotating the optical filter base member 951 by transmitting a rotational force to the gear shape 951a of the optical filter base member 951 via the intermediate gear 902. A battery housing portion 170 for housing the battery 143 is provided on the right side of the front cover 10.

The present embodiment assigns the switching function of insertion/retraction of the optical filter 160 to the multifunction knob 113. Other buttons, dials, switches, setting screens, etc. may be used for the switching operation of the optical filter 160. The operation in the case where the optical filter 160 is driven by the user operation will now be described.

Fig. 12A shows a state (insertion state) in which the optical filter 160 is inserted into an opening 990 as an imaging range provided inside the mount unit 103 of the image pickup apparatus 100 and overlaps with the opening 990. The opening 990 defines an imaging range. Thus, light incident on the image sensor 121 (fig. 2) passes through the optical filter 160, and the effect of the optical filter 160 provides various imaging manifestations. For example, an ND filter inserted as the optical filter 160 can attenuate incident light, and can provide long-time exposure imaging and overexposure suppression even in a bright environment.

When the multifunction knob 113 is pressed in the inserted state shown in fig. 12A, the switch sensing circuit 133 detects the pressing. Then, an instruction to drive the motor 901 is transmitted from the MPU 130, and the motor 901 starts rotating due to the optical filter drive circuit 137. This rotation is transmitted from the worm wheel 901a to the gear shape 951a via the intermediate gear 902, and the optical filter base member 951 having the gear shape 951a starts to rotate. Fig. 12B shows a state during rotation.

The optical filter holding unit 950 (corresponding to the holding member 200 in fig. 3) moves to the retracted state shown in fig. 12C through the intermediate state shown in fig. 12B. Between the optical axis 1000 and the short side of the opening 990 near the grip portion 101 (fig. 1), the rotation axis center P1 of the gear shape 951a (corresponding to the gear shape 200a in fig. 4A to 4C) is closer to the bottom surface of the image pickup apparatus 100 than the opening 990. Accordingly, as shown in fig. 12B, the optical filter holding unit 950 can be rotated without interfering with internal components such as the top cover 11 (fig. 3).

As such, the motor 901 (corresponding to the motor 201 in fig. 4A to 4C) is disposed closer to the bottom surface than the opening 990, thereby shortening the power transmission distance to the gear shape 951a and improving the driving efficiency. In the case where the optical filter base member 951 moves to the retracted position shown in fig. 12C, the optical filter drive circuit 137 stops the motor 901 in response to a detection signal from a position sensor (not shown). The position sensor means a position detector such as a photo reflector, but the drive stop timing may be determined based on any means such as rotation angle detection of the motor 901 and a mechanical switch.

Let L1 now be the distance in the X direction between the rotation axis center P1 of the gear shape 951a and the battery housing 170. In fig. 12A, the optical filter holding unit 950 has a notch portion 950U so that the optical filter holding unit does not protrude beyond the radius L1 in the radial direction in the phase range θ1 around the rotation axis center P1. Due to this structure, in the phase range θ1 during the rotation state including the state of fig. 12B, the optical filter holding unit 950 does not interfere with the battery housing portion 170, and the image pickup apparatus 100 can be made small in the X direction.

Fig. 12C shows the following state (backoff state): the optical filter holding unit 950 is rotated by approximately 90 degrees on a plane parallel to the imaging unit 120 from the inserted state of fig. 12A and retreats from the aperture 990. Since the optical filter holding unit 950 is retracted, light condensed by the lens apparatus 104 enters the image sensor 121 (fig. 2) without passing through the optical filter 160.

In the retracted state shown in fig. 12C, the user who wants to reinsert the optical filter 160 presses the multi-function button 113, and the motor 901 rotates in the direction opposite to the direction of the above-described operation. Thereby, the optical filter 160 moves to the insertion state shown in fig. 12A through the intermediate state shown in fig. 12B. When the optical filter 160 moves to the insertion state position shown in fig. 12A, the optical filter drive circuit 137 stops the motor 901 in response to a detection signal from a position sensor (not shown), as in the retracted state.

Fig. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the optical filter holding unit 950 in a retracted state as viewed from the front side of the image pickup apparatus 100. The optical filter 160 is fixed to a frame-shaped optical filter holding member 955 having an opening 955e by an optical filter tape 961. Although the optical filter tape 961 is a square tape, it may be fixed by an adhesive or the like instead of the tape. In the case where the optical filter 160 is made of resin, it may be integrally formed with the optical filter holding member 955 by, for example, integral molding. The optical filter holding member 955 has a notch portion 955U, and the notch portion 955U contributes to miniaturization of the image pickup apparatus 100 described with reference to fig. 12A to 12C.

The optical filter cover member 956 is attached to the optical filter base member 951, and is fixed due to the engagement of the plurality of claw portions 951b of the optical filter base member 951 with the hole portions 956b in the optical filter cover member 956. The optical filter base member 951 and the optical filter cover member 956 have notches 951U and 956U, respectively, and the notches 951U and 956U contribute to miniaturization of the image pickup apparatus 100 described with reference to fig. 12A to 12C. The optical filter holding member 955 that holds the optical filter 160 can be inserted in the +y direction into the space surrounded by the optical filter base member 951 and the optical filter cover member 956. After the optical filter holding member 955 is inserted, the optical filter holding member 955 is locked by an optical filter locking member 957 disposed on the optical filter base member 951. The optical filter lock member 957 is biased in the-Y direction by a lock member biasing spring 959. The operation of the optical filter locking member 957 is controlled by the locking guide pin 958. The mechanism of the locking unit will be described in detail with reference to fig. 14A, 14B, and 15.

Referring now to fig. 14A and 14B, a transition between the exit state and the lock state of the optical filter holding member 955 will be described. Fig. 15 shows a detailed structure of the related optical filter locking member 957.

Fig. 14A and 14B show a state in which the optical filter cover member 956 is removed from the optical filter holding unit 950 in the retracted state. Fig. 14A shows the exit state, and fig. 14B shows the lock state. The present embodiment uses a general push-push type (push-push type) mechanism for a mechanism for switching between the exit state and the lock state. As shown in fig. 15, the optical filter lock member 957 has a cam groove 957c that restricts movement of the lock guide pin 958. In the withdrawn state, the tip of the lock guide pin 958 is located at C1. The lock guide pin 958 is pressed in the-Z direction by a biasing portion 956e of the optical filter cover member 956 as shown in fig. 16A so as not to fall off during movement, which will be described below.

The transition from the exit state to the lock state will now be described. When optical filter retaining member 955 is inserted, hypotenuse portion 955a of optical filter retaining member 955 contacts hypotenuse portion 957a of optical filter locking member 957. After the optical filter base member 951 is pushed to a position near the contact portion 951c against the urging force of the lock member urging spring 959 in the-Y direction, the state transitions to the locked state as shown in fig. 14B. Meanwhile, the convex portion 957B of the optical filter locking member 957 having elasticity is engaged with the concave portion 955B of the optical filter holding member 955, and the optical filter holding member 955 is biased in the F1 direction in fig. 14A and 14B. The urging force F1 has force components F1X and F1Y in the X direction and the Y direction, respectively. At this time, as shown in fig. 15, the tip of the lock guide pin 958 in the cam groove 957C of the optical filter lock member 957 moves from C1 (withdrawn state) in the solid arrow direction and reaches C3 (locked state) via C2 (in the vicinity of the contact portion).

The transition from the locked state to the exit state will now be described. In the locked state shown in fig. 14B, when the optical filter holding member 955 is pushed in the +y direction, the optical filter locking member 957 is moved to a position near the contact portion 951c of the optical filter base member 951. Next, the optical filter lock member 957 is unlocked, and the lock member urging spring 959 urges it in the-Y direction. The hypotenuse portion 957a of the optical filter locking member 957 biases the hypotenuse portion 955a of the optical filter holding member 955 in the-Y direction and pushes it out to the withdrawn state shown in fig. 14A. At this time, as shown in fig. 15, the tip of the lock guide pin 958 in the cam groove 957C of the optical filter lock member 957 passes from C3 (locked state) through C4 (in the vicinity of the contact portion) to C1 (withdrawn state) in the direction of the broken-line arrow.

The optical filter holding member 955 has a clamping portion 955c for a user to clamp when replacing the optical filter 160 in the withdrawn state shown in fig. 14A. The grip portion 955c of the optical filter holding member 955 prevents the user from inadvertently contaminating the optical filter 160 during replacement, improving the operability of the replacement operation. The locking portion 955d is provided on a side adjacent to and orthogonal to the clamping portion 955c, and the locking portion 955d can improve the rigidity of the optical filter holding member 955 and suppress deformation during replacement work. The optical filter holding member 955 has a minimum frame-like structure for miniaturizing the sides except the clamp portion 955c and the lock portion 955 d.

Fig. 16A and 16B illustrate a force application method in a locked state of the optical filter holding member 955. Fig. 16A and 16B show the optical filter cover member 956 attached in the locked state of fig. 14B. Fig. 16A shows the image pickup apparatus 100 as seen from the front side, and fig. 16B is a right side view of fig. 16A.

As described with reference to fig. 14B, the optical filter holding member 955 is biased in the plane direction by the optical filter locking member 957 to F1X (+x direction) and F1Y (+y direction) as components of the force F1. For the X direction, the optical filter holding member 955 is biased by a side biasing portion 956c of the optical filter cover member 956 in addition to F1X so that the force f2 in the +x direction satisfies f1x≡f2. Therefore, the long side of the optical filter holding member 955 is substantially uniformly biased in the +x direction. Therefore, since the optical filter holding member 955 is biased in the +x direction and the +y direction on the XY plane, the optical filter holding member 955 can be held such that it is not easily tilted. The urging forces F1 and F2 are directed away from the rotation axis center P1 of the optical filter holding unit 950 in the same direction as the centrifugal force that the optical filter holding member 955 receives during rotation. Therefore, this structure is less likely to cause positional displacement during rotation.

The urging force of the optical filter holding member 955 in the thickness direction will be described. The optical filter holding member 955 is substantially uniformly biased in the-Z direction by three upper surface biasing portions 956d of the optical filter cover member 956 as plate springs. Let G1 be the center of gravity of the combination of the optical filter 160 and the optical filter holding member 955. Then, G1 is located in a position of a triangle connecting the three upper surface urging portions 956d, thereby stably urging the optical filter holding member 955 in the thickness direction. There may be three or more points of application in the thickness direction. In this case, G1 is positioned in the polygon at the position where the biasing means is connected, so that stable biasing can be provided.

The mechanism for replacing the optical filter 160 has been described in detail so far. Referring now to fig. 12A to 12C, a description will be given of the configuration of the replacement mechanism portion 950H configured to replace the optical filter holding member 955 in the optical filter holding unit 950. As described with reference to fig. 13 to 15, the replacement mechanism portion 950H is a mechanism capable of switching the optical filter 160 and the optical filter holding member 955 between the withdrawn state and the locked state. The replacement mechanism portion 950H according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of components including a locking portion 955d of the optical filter holding member 955, an optical filter locking member 957, a locking guide pin 958, and a locking member urging spring 959. As shown in fig. 12C in which the optical filter 160 is retracted, the replacement mechanism 950H is located on the long side of the optical filter holding unit 950 near the optical axis 1000 below the opening 990. The replacement mechanism portion 950H is located between the long side of the optical filter holding unit 950 near the optical axis 1000 and the rotation axis center P1 of the optical filter holding unit 950, thereby improving the space efficiency. Since the center of gravity of the optical filter holding unit 950 can be brought close to the rotation axis center P1, the moment of inertia is reduced, and the rotation can be easily controlled. An upper short side 950T of the optical filter holding unit 950 shown in fig. 12C has a space in the retracted state. However, in the inserted state shown in fig. 12A, the image pickup apparatus 100 may become large in the case where the replacement mechanism portion 950H is arranged due to an interface terminal (not shown) mounted on the image pickup apparatus 100. The interface terminal (not shown) includes, for example, a USB terminal, an HDMI (registered trademark) terminal, an external microphone terminal, an earphone terminal, and the like.

Since the configuration of the replacement mechanism portion 950H in the present embodiment causes it not to interfere with the opening 990 and the battery housing 170 in the X direction, the image pickup apparatus 100 can be made smaller. In the present embodiment, the replacement mechanism portion 950H is of a push-push type, but may be of another type as long as it can be switched between the withdrawn state and the locked state.

The present embodiment enables the optical filter 160 built in the image pickup apparatus 100 to be switched between the insertion state and the retracted state with respect to the optical axis 1000 without increasing the size of the image pickup apparatus 100. The present embodiment can provide an image pickup apparatus capable of easily replacing the optical filter 160 in the retracted state.

Example 4

An image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 4 will be described. In embodiments 1 and 2, the use state and the non-use state of the optical filter 160 can be switched quickly by providing the phase of the insertion state and the phase of the backoff state. In the present embodiment, the optical filter 160 can be quickly switched between the use state and the non-use state, improving the convenience of the optical filter 160 in the withdrawal and replacement by further providing the phase of the replacement state in addition to the phase of the insertion state and the phase of the retraction state. Since the electrical configuration and basic operation of the image pickup apparatus according to the present embodiment are the same as those of embodiment 1 and embodiment 2, the same reference numerals will be used for description, and details thereof will be omitted.

Referring now to fig. 17, the structure of the optical filter 160 and the holding member 240 (corresponding to the holding member 200 in fig. 3) according to the present embodiment will be described. The optical filter 160 is inserted into the holding member 240 and held by the holding member 240. The holding member 240 includes two components, i.e., a filter insertion portion 240c and a filter support portion 240d, and the filter insertion portion 240c is slidable in the arrow Y02 direction with respect to the filter support portion 240 d. In general, the filter insertion portion 240c receives the urging force of a spring (not shown) in the arrow Y01 direction, and slides in the arrow Y02 direction if receiving a pressure exceeding the urging force of the spring (not shown). The gear shape 240a is integral with the filter support portion 240d, and the filter support portion 240d can rotate via the gear shape 240a as in embodiment 1.

Referring now to fig. 18A to 19, a switching operation and a replacement operation of the optical filter 160 according to embodiment 4 will be described. The driving unit and the position detector of the optical filter 160 are similar to those of embodiment 1, and the description thereof will be omitted.

Fig. 18A shows a state (inserted state) in which the optical filter 160 is inserted into and overlapped with the opening 190 provided inside the mount unit 103 of the image pickup apparatus 100. Similar to embodiment 1, light incident on the image sensor 121 (fig. 2) passes through the optical filter 160, and the effect of the optical filter 160 provides various imaging manifestations.

As in embodiment 1, when the user presses the multifunction knob 113, the holding member 240 starts to rotate. Fig. 18B shows a retracted state in which the holding member 240 has been moved to a position that does not overlap with the opening 190. Here, the holding member 240 has a notch portion 240e so that the holding member 240 can retract by a rotation amount smaller than that of embodiment 1. In the case where the user presses the multi-function button 113 again, the holding member 240 moves again to the inserted state. Therefore, the insertion state and the retraction state of the optical filter 160 can be switched more quickly.

The replacement operation of the optical filter 160 will now be described. Embodiment 4 assigns the switch to the replacement operation to the long press multifunction button 113 for three seconds (hereinafter referred to as long press). This is merely illustrative, and other buttons, dials, switches, setting screens, etc. may be used for switching to the replacement operation.

In the case where the user presses the multifunction knob 113 while the holding member 240 is in the inserted or retracted state, the holding member 240 moves to the state shown in fig. 18C via the state shown in fig. 18B. The state shown in fig. 18C is referred to as a replacement state. At this time, the optical filter holding member 240 is rotated by the driving force of the motor 201 with a portion thereof contacting the convex shape 10b protruding from the front cover 10. Then, the filter insertion portion 240c biased by a spring (not shown) contacts the convex shape 10b, slides in the arrow Y02 direction, and is pushed out to the bottom surface side of the image pickup apparatus 100. Fig. 19 shows a bottom perspective view of the image pickup apparatus 100 in a replacement state. When comparing the state of fig. 19 with the state shown in fig. 6C of embodiment 1, the optical filter holding member 240 protrudes from the bottom surface. The optical filter cover 210 may be opened by a user as in embodiment 1, or opened from the inside, for example, by the optical filter holding member 240. Due to this structure, the user can easily pick up and replace the optical filter 160. When the user presses the multi-function button 113 again for a long time, the holding member 240 rotates to the state shown in fig. 18B, i.e., a stage before the replacement state.

The driving speed for switching the holding member 240 between the replacement state and the retracted state is controlled such that the holding member 240 moves at a lower speed than the speed for switching between the insertion state and the retracted state. Therefore, blurring (blur) due to driving of the optical filter holding member 240 can be suppressed, and the gap between the filter replacement opening 211 and the optical filter holding member 240 can be made small. By reducing the gap, intrusion of dust can be reduced. On the other hand, switching quickly between the insertion state and the retreat state can reduce the standby time during imaging.

In the case where the power switch 107 is turned off in the replacement state shown in fig. 18C, the holding member 240 moves to the insertion state or the retreat state, and then the image pickup apparatus 100 stops operating. This structure can prevent the optical filter holding member 240 from being stored or carried with the optical filter holding member 240 protruding from the bottom surface, thereby reducing the risk of breakage and dust entry.

The present embodiment thus far discusses the following structure: this structure provides the phase of the replacement state in addition to the phase of the insertion state and the phase of the retreat state, so that the use state and the non-use state of the optical filter 160 can be switched quickly, and the convenience of the retreating and replacement can be improved. In the present embodiment, the optical filter 160 is rotated similarly to embodiment 1, but the optical filter 160 may be linearly moved similarly to embodiment 2. Fig. 20 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of embodiment 2 to which a replacement state is added. D1 to D3 represent phases of the optical filters 160, respectively. D1 corresponds to an insertion state in which the optical filter 160 overlaps the image sensor 121. D2 corresponds to a retracted state in which the optical filter 160 is retracted from the opening 190. D3 corresponds to a replacement state in which the optical filter 160 is further moved to the side face side of the image pickup apparatus 100.

Switching between D1 and D2 can rapidly switch the presence or absence of the optical filter 160, and switching to D3 can improve convenience at the same time, because the user can easily access the optical filter 160 during replacement.

The present embodiment can easily switch between the use state (insertion state), the non-use state (retracted state), and the replacement state of the optical filter without increasing the size of the image pickup apparatus, providing improved replacement convenience for the image pickup apparatus.

Example 5

An image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 5 will now be described. Embodiment 5 will explain a determination method and a structure of an optical filter inserted into an image pickup apparatus.

Referring now to fig. 21A and 21B, according to the present embodiment, a configuration of an optical filter determining unit 161 for determining the presence or absence and the type of the optical filter 160 will be described. Fig. 21A and 21B show the optical filter 160 and components related to the optical filter determination unit 161 viewed from the rear side of the image pickup apparatus 100. The optical filter determination unit 161 includes contacts on the optical filter 160 and sections on the image capturing apparatus 100. The section is provided between the grip portion 101 and the retracted position of the optical filter 160, and the contact is provided at a position where the holding member 200 contacts the section in a state where the holding member 200 is retracted from the opening 190.

Since the optical filter 160 can be replaced at a position retracted from the opening 190, the type of the optical filter 160 can be determined at the time of replacement. The section of the optical filter determination unit 161 is disposed on the side of the grip 101 outside the range of the drive locus 1007 (see fig. 23) of the holding member 200 and the grip region 1008 (see fig. 23) accessible to the user attempting to replace the optical filter 160. Thus, in the case where the optical filter 160 is moved from the retracted state to the inserted state and is inserted or withdrawn from the bottom surface of the image pickup apparatus 100, conversion can be performed without interfering with the section of the optical filter determination unit 161 provided to the image pickup apparatus 100.

With reference to fig. 21A, 21B, 22A and 22B, the structure of the contacts and sections of the optical filter determining unit 161 will be described. Fig. 21A and 21B show a rear view and a cross-sectional view of components related to the optical filter 160 and the optical filter determination unit 161 of the image pickup apparatus 100, respectively.

Fig. 21A and 21B show a state in which the optical filter 160 is inserted into the holding member 200 at a position where the holding member 200 shown in fig. 4C is retracted from the opening 190. Fig. 21B is a sectional view taken along line B-B in fig. 21A.

The optical filter 160 has protrusions 1004 as contacts of the optical filter determining unit 161, and the holding member 200 has openings 1003 exposing the plurality of protrusions 1004. The substrate 1006 and the leaf springs 1005 each serving as a section of the optical filter determination unit 161 are fixed to the image pickup apparatus 100.

The protrusion 1004 includes a first protrusion 1004a and a second protrusion 1004b, and the plate spring 1005 includes a first section 1005a, a second section 1005b, a third section 1005c, and a fourth section 1005d. The substrate 1006 includes a first contact 1006a, a second contact 1006b, a third contact 1006c, and a fourth contact 1006d.

Since the protrusions 1004 of the inserted optical filter 160 contact the first to fourth contact portions 1006a to 1006a of the substrate 1006, respectively, the first to fourth sections 1005a to 1005d are bent as shown in the B-B sectional view. Since the protrusions 1004 are provided in positions and the number thereof are different depending on the type of the optical filter 160, the type of the optical filter 160 can be determined by the connection and disconnection states of the first to fourth contact portions 1006a to 1006d connected to the substrate 1006.

Since the plate spring 1005 and the substrate 1006 are provided to the image pickup apparatus 100 instead of the holding member 200, the substrate 1006 does not slide and bend when the holding member 200 is driven. Therefore, the substrate 1006 can be accommodated in a space-saving manner, and the substrate 1006 can be prevented from being damaged due to sliding and bending.

The contact direction of each plate spring 1005 with each protrusion 1004 of the optical filter 160 is the X direction, so that the optical filter 160 can be moved to the inserted state in the entrance opening 190 without being inclined in the plane orthogonal to the optical axis 1000. The contact direction of the plate spring 1005 may be the Y direction as long as the plate spring 1005 is located outside the range of the driving locus 1007 and the nip region 1008.

The optical filter determination unit 161 is not limited to the structure of the present embodiment, and for example, a structure in which a stylus and a switch provided for the optical filter 160 and the image pickup apparatus 100 can be brought into contact with each other may be used. Alternatively, a photosensor such as a light reflector and a photointerrupter may be arranged on the image pickup apparatus 100 so as to determine the protrusion 1004 in a noncontact manner. The non-contact method is effective in terms of durability because it can prevent abrasion of each protrusion 1004.

Fig. 22A and 22B show a state in which the optical filter 160 is not inserted into the holding member 200 at the position where the holding member 200 shown in fig. 4C is retracted from the opening 190. Fig. 22B is a sectional view taken along line C-C in fig. 22A. Since the plate spring 1005 is not pressed as shown in the C-C sectional view, the plate spring 1005 is in contact with the substrate 1006. The first to fourth contact portions 1006a to 1006d of the substrate 1006 are all disconnected, determining that the optical filter 160 is not inserted into the holding member 200.

In the case where it is determined that the optical filter 160 is not inserted, the MPU 130 (fig. 2) transmits a signal not to drive the holding member 200. Thereby, it is possible to prevent an erroneous operation such as switching to the insertion state in the entrance opening 190 even though the user does not insert the optical filter 160. Erroneous operation can be prevented by displaying a warning on a display device such as the liquid crystal monitor 111, the electronic viewfinder 112, or the display panel 114 (fig. 2). The determined presence or absence and type of the optical filter 160 are displayed on the liquid crystal monitor 111, the electronic viewfinder 112, and the display panel 114 (fig. 2). Thereby, the user does not need to open the optical filter cover 210 (fig. 6) to check the state of the optical filter 160, improving convenience.

Depending on the type of the optical filter 160 determined, the insertion state inserted in the opening 190 and the retreat state retreated from the opening 190 may be automatically controlled according to the imaging situation. For example, in the case of a decrease in shutter speed, a change in brightness (in the case where the user moves from a dark room to a bright place), or the like, the optical filter driving circuit 137 may move the optical filter 160 from the retracted state to the inserted state.

The determination information about the optical filter 160 is stored in a memory that keeps a record even if the battery 143 (fig. 2) of the image pickup apparatus 100 runs out. Therefore, even in the case where the optical filter 160 is inserted into the opening 190 without touching the plate spring 1005 or the substrate 1006, the user can check the stored information on the display device.

The above-described structure enables the presence or absence and type of the optical filter 160 in the image pickup apparatus 100 to be determined, improves convenience, and prevents erroneous operation by a user.

Example 6

An image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 6 will now be described. Embodiment 5 has discussed an example of the structure of the optical filter determination unit 161 in the image pickup apparatus having the single grip 101 according to embodiment 1. This embodiment will discuss an example of an optical filter determination unit 161 applied to the image pickup apparatus having the two grip portions 101 and 304 described in embodiment 2.

Referring now to fig. 23, a description will be given of a difference from the configuration of the optical filter determination unit 161 of embodiment 4. Fig. 23 shows components related to the optical filter determination unit 161 as viewed from the rear side of the image capturing apparatus 100 in the case where the optical filter 160 is retracted from the opening 190. The contact point of the optical filter determination unit 161 is provided on the long side of the optical filter 160 above the opening 190 in the Y direction, and the section is provided at a position where the retreat state in which the holding member 322 of the image pickup apparatus 100 retreats from the opening 190 can be determined. The optical filter determination unit 161 may be disposed below the opening 190 in the Y direction as long as the optical filter determination unit 161 is located outside the range of the driving locus 1007 and the holding area 1008 of the optical filter 160. Details of the contacts and sections of the optical filter determination unit 161 are similar to those of embodiment 4, and thus a description thereof will be omitted.

The present embodiment has discussed the configuration of the image pickup apparatus capable of determining the presence or absence of the optical filter 160 in the image pickup apparatus 100 and the type.

Example 7

An image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 7 will be described. Referring now to fig. 24A to 24C, the operation of the internal mechanism in the case where the optical filter cover 210 is opened and closed will be described. Fig. 24A to 24C are structural diagrams of the optical filter cover 210.

Fig. 24A shows a peripheral structure of the optical filter cover 210 in the inserted state of the holding member 200 shown in fig. 4A. The cover engagement member (first engagement member) 220 is slidably supported on the front cover 10 in the directions of arrows S21 and S22. An optical filter engagement member (second engagement member) 230 is rotatably supported on the front cover 10 in the directions of arrows S31 and S32. The cover engagement member 220 and the optical filter engagement member 230 are connected by a link mechanism (link) and operated in linkage with each other. For example, when the optical filter engagement member 230 rotates in the arrow S31 direction, the cover engagement member 220 moves in the arrow S22 direction. In contrast, when the cover engagement member 220 slides in the arrow S21 direction, the optical filter engagement member 230 rotates in the arrow S32 direction.

The cover engagement member 220 is biased in the arrow S21 direction by a spring (not shown), and is held in the position shown in fig. 24A with the optical filter 160 in the inserted state. At this time, the engagement surface 220a of the cover engagement member 220 is located directly above the convex shape 210a, and the convex shape 210a is provided on the rotation axis of the optical filter cover 210. Since the convex shape 210a is engaged with the engagement surface 220a, rotation of the optical filter cover 210 in the arrow S11 direction is suppressed. Due to this structure, the user cannot open the optical filter cover 210 with the holding member 200 in the inserted state, so that dust can be prevented from inadvertently entering the image pickup apparatus 100.

Fig. 24B shows a structure around the optical filter cover 210 in the retracted state of the holding member 200 shown in fig. 4C. In the case where the holding member 200 rotates in the arrow S42 direction, a pin (dowel) shape 200b provided on the holding member 200 pushes a cam shape 230a of the optical filter engagement member 230, causing the optical filter engagement member 230 to rotate in the arrow S31 direction. At this time, the cover engagement member 220 moves in the arrow S22 direction in conjunction therewith. As a result, the joint surface 220a retreats from a position immediately above the convex shape 210a, and the optical filter cover 210 becomes rotatable in the arrow S11 direction. This structure allows the user to open the optical filter cover 210 only when the holding member 200 is in the retracted state.

Fig. 24C shows a state in which the user opens the optical filter cover 210 from the state shown in fig. 24B. In the case where the optical filter cover 210 rotates in the S11 direction, the convex shape 210a provided to the optical filter cover 210 pushes the cover engagement member 220 in the arrow S22 direction along the inclined surface 220b provided to the cover engagement member 220. In conjunction with this, the optical filter engagement member 230 further rotates in the arrow S31 direction from the state of fig. 24B. Hook-like shapes 230b provided on the optical filter engagement member 230 engage with the peg shape 200 b. Thereby, the rotation of the holding member 200 in the arrow S41 direction is suppressed. In the case where the user inserts the optical filter 160 into the holding member 200, this structure can prevent the holding member 200 from rotating in the direction of arrow S41 due to the pushing force of the user.

In the case where the user closes the optical filter cover 210 in the arrow S12 direction from the state shown in fig. 24C, the convex shape 210a is separated from the cover engagement member 220, and a spring (not shown) moves the cover engagement member 220 in the arrow S21 direction, shifting the state to the state shown in fig. 24B. The hook shape 230b is disengaged from the pin shape 200b, and the holding member 200 becomes rotatable in the arrow S41 direction.

In the state shown in fig. 24B, in the case where the user presses the multifunction knob 113, the holding member 200 rotates in the arrow S41 direction. At this time, the pin shape 200b is separated from the cam shape 230a, and the cover engagement member 220 is moved in the arrow S21 direction by a spring (not shown), and the state is shifted to the state shown in fig. 24A. The engagement surface 220a is located directly above the convex shape 210a, and the optical filter cover 210 cannot be opened in the direction of arrow S11.

The above structure performs the engagement and operation at an appropriate timing depending on the states of the holding member 200 and the optical filter cover 210.

Example 8

An image pickup apparatus according to embodiment 8 will now be described. Referring now to fig. 25A to 31, the structure and switching operation of the light shielding filter 510 and the optical filter 160 according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig. 25A and 25B show the state of the image capturing apparatus 100 in the case where the power is off. Fig. 26A and 26B show a state in the case where the light shielding filter holding member 500 is driven. Fig. 27A and 27B show a state in the case where the light shielding filter holding member 500 is retracted. Fig. 28A and 28B show a state in the case where the optical filter holding member 600 is driven. Fig. 29A and 29B show a state in the case where the optical filter holding member 600 is retracted. Fig. 25A, 26A, 27A, 28A, and 29A are plan views of the image pickup apparatus 100 as viewed from the rear side. Fig. 25B, 26B, 27B, 28B, and 29B are perspective views of driving mechanisms for the light shielding filter 510 and the optical filter 160, respectively. Fig. 30 is a sectional view of the image pickup apparatus 100, which shows a section taken along a line A-A in fig. 29A. Fig. 31 is a timing chart showing states of the light shielding filter holding member 500 and the optical filter holding member 600, which includes the states shown in fig. 25A to 29B.

The light shielding filter 510 is inserted into the light shielding filter holding member 500 and held by the light shielding filter holding member 500. The light shielding filter holding member 500 has follower shapes 500a and 500b, and is provided rotatably about a rotation shaft 604a of the gear base 604. The light shielding filter holding member 500 is biased counterclockwise in fig. 25A by a spring member (not shown) so as to move to a position covering the opening 190 defining the imaging range.

The optical filter 160 is inserted into the optical filter holding member 600 and held by the optical filter holding member 600. The optical filter holding member 600 has follower shapes 600a and 600b, and is provided rotatably about a rotation axis 604a of the gear base 604 as in the light shielding filter holding member 500. The optical filter holding member 600 is biased counterclockwise in fig. 25A by a spring member (not shown) so as to move to a position covering the opening 190.

A motor (driving unit) 601 for driving the light shielding filter 510 and the optical filter 160 is attached to the gear base 604. The worm gear 601a is attached to the drive shaft of the motor 601. The worm wheel 601a transmits rotational force to the follower shapes 500a and 500b of the light shielding filter holding member 500 and the follower shapes 600a and 600b of the optical filter holding member 600 via the gears 602 and 603. Thereby, the motor 601 can rotate the light shielding filter holding member 500 and the optical filter holding member 600. A battery housing portion 170 for housing the battery 143 is provided on the right side of the front cover 10.

Fig. 25A and 25B show the following states: the light shielding filter 510 and the optical filter 160 are located at positions (positions in the inserted state, first positions) that cover (overlap) the opening 190 in the optical axis 1000 direction. In this state, the image capturing apparatus 100 is powered off, and the opening 190 (and the image sensor 121) is shielded from light by the light shielding filter 510 and the optical filter 160. Since the image sensor 121 is covered with the light shielding filter 510 and the optical filter 160, the image sensor 121 is protected and the image sensor 121 can be prevented from being damaged. Further, at the time of exchanging the lens apparatus 104 or the like, dust can be prevented from entering the opening 190 and adhering to the image sensor 121.

In the case where the power switch 107 of the image pickup apparatus 100 is turned on from the state shown in fig. 25A and 25B, the MPU 130 transmits a command to drive the motor 601, and the filter drive circuit 137 starts rotation of the motor 601. Rotation is transmitted from the worm wheel 601a to the follower shape 500a via the gear 602 and the cam 603a of the cam gear 603. Thus, in fig. 25A, the light shielding filter holding member 500 starts to rotate clockwise. Fig. 26A and 26B show states in the middle of rotation.

Thereafter, the rotation is continued and transmitted to the follower shape 500B via the cam 603B of the cam gear 603, and the light shielding filter holding member 500 moves to a state of being retracted from the opening 190 shown in fig. 27A and 27B. In the case where the light shielding filter holding member 500 moves to the predetermined position shown in fig. 27A and 27B, the filter drive circuit 137 stops the motor 601 once detected by a position sensor (not shown). The position sensor means a position detector such as a photo reflector, etc., but the drive stop timing may be determined based on any means such as rotation angle detection of the motor 601 and a mechanical switch.

In the state shown in fig. 27A and 27B, the light shielding filter holding member 500 is rotated by approximately 90 degrees on a plane parallel to the imaging unit 120 from the inserted state shown in fig. 25A and 25B, and retreats from the opening 190 (position in the retreated state, second position). At this time, the optical filter 160 is still in a position (inserted state) covering the opening 190. Thus, light incident on the image sensor 121 passes through the optical filter 160, and the effect of the optical filter 160 provides various imaging manifestations. For example, an ND filter inserted as the optical filter 160 can attenuate incident light, and can provide long-time exposure imaging and overexposure suppression even in a bright environment.

In the case where the multifunction knob 113 is pressed in the inserted state shown in fig. 27A and 27B, the switch sensing circuit 133 detects the pressing. At this time, the MPU 130 transmits a command to drive the motor 601, and starts rotation of the motor 601 through the optical filter driving circuit 137. This rotation is transmitted from the worm wheel 601a to the follower shape 600a via the gear 602 and the cam 603c of the cam gear 603, and the optical filter holding member 600 starts rotating clockwise in fig. 27A. Fig. 28A and 28B show states in the middle of rotation.

Thereafter, the rotation is continued and transmitted to the follower shape 600B via the cam 603d of the cam gear 603, and as shown in fig. 29A and 29B, the state transitions to a state in which the optical filter 160 is retracted from the opening 190 (position of the retracted state, second position). In the case where the optical filter holding member 600 moves to the predetermined position shown in fig. 29A and 29B, the filter drive circuit 137 stops the motor 601 once detected by a position sensor (not shown). The position sensor means a position detector such as a photo reflector, etc., but the drive stop timing may be determined based on any means such as rotation angle detection of the motor 601 and a mechanical switch.

The rotation shaft 604a is disposed closer to the bottom surface of the image pickup apparatus 100 than the optical axis 1000. As shown in fig. 26A, 26B, 28A, and 28B, the rotation shaft 604a can rotate the light shielding filter holding member 500 and the optical filter holding member 600 without interfering with internal components such as the top cover 11. Further, by holding the light shielding filter holding member 500 and the optical filter holding member 600 on the rotation shaft 604a (rotating them around the shaft), the drive unit including the gear 602 and the cam gear 603 is arranged in a space-saving manner and miniaturization is promoted. Also, disposing the motor 601 closer to the bottom surface than the optical axis 1000 can shorten the power transmission distance of the cam gear 603 and improve the driving efficiency.

In the state shown in fig. 29A, the optical filter holding member 600 rotates by approximately 90 degrees on a plane parallel to the imaging unit 120 from the inserted state shown in fig. 25A, and reaches a state of being retracted from the opening 190 (position in the retracted state, second position). In the retracted state, the light shielding filter 510 and the optical filter 160 overlap each other in the direction along the optical axis 1000. When the optical filter holding member 600 is retracted, the light condensed by the lens device 104 enters the image sensor 121 without passing through the optical filter 160.

As shown in fig. 30, in the retracted state, the light shielding filter holding member 500 and the optical filter holding member 600 are retracted to a position between the opening 190 and the battery housing portion 170, that is, between the opening 190 and the grip portion 101. By rotating the light shielding filter holding member 500 and the optical filter holding member 600 by about 90 degrees, the short side directions of the light shielding filter 510 and the optical filter 160 become substantially parallel to the X direction. Therefore, the light shielding filter holding member 500 and the optical filter holding member 600 can be housed in the region between the opening 190 and the battery housing portion 170.

In the retracted state shown in fig. 29A and 29B, the user who wants to reinsert the optical filter 160 presses the multi-function button 113, and the motor 601 rotates in the direction opposite to the direction of the above-described operation. Thereby, the optical filter 160 moves to the inserted state shown in fig. 27A and 27B through the intermediate state shown in fig. 28A and 28B.

Thus, according to the present embodiment, the image pickup apparatus 100 includes a first optical member (optical filter 160) and a second optical member (light shielding filter 510) arranged parallel to the first optical member in the optical axis direction. The first optical member and the second optical member each have a first position inserted into the imaging range (opening 190) and a second position rotated from the first position toward the grip portion and retracted from the imaging range. The first position is a position where the optical filter 160 covers an imaging range (including an imaging region of the optical axis 1000), and the second position is a position where the optical filter 160 does not overlap with the imaging range.

In the present embodiment, the light shielding filter (light shielding member) 510 is used as, but not limited to, the second optical member, and an optical filter such as an ND filter, a PL filter, or a low-pass filter (softening filter) may be used. Similarly, the optical filter 160 is not limited to the ND filter, and other optical filters such as a PL filter and a low-pass filter (softening filter) may be used. For example, if both the light shielding filter 510 and the optical filter 160 are ND filters having different amounts of light attenuation, the amounts of light attenuation can be set in three stages, enabling a wider range of imaging performance. Even in the present embodiment, the image capturing apparatus 100 can normally operate even in the case where both the light shielding filter 510 and the optical filter 160 are in the retracted state.

In the present embodiment, adjusting the rotation speed of the motor 601 and making the rotation speeds of the light shielding filter holding member 500 and the optical filter holding member 600 variable can further improve usability for the user. For example, in order to reduce driving noise during rotation, the rotation speed of the motor 601 may be set low, although rapid switching of the light shielding filter 510 or the optical filter 160 may be sacrificed. Conversely, if a quick switch is prioritized, the rotation speed of the motor 601 may be set higher, although the drive noise reduction during rotation is sacrificed.

In the present embodiment, a single motor 601 is used to rotate the light shielding filter holding member 500 and the optical filter holding member 600, but the disclosure is not limited to the present embodiment. A structure having a higher degree of freedom may be employed in which: the light shielding filter holding member 500 and the optical filter holding member 600 are independently rotated using two motors so as to rotate each filter at a desired timing.

The above structure provides an image pickup apparatus capable of easily switching between an insertion state and a retreat state of each of a first optical member (optical filter 160) and a second optical member (light shielding filter 510) without increasing the size of the image pickup apparatus.

In the present embodiment, the structure of controlling the insertion/withdrawal of the optical filter 160 in response to the user pressing the multi-function button 113 has been described, but the structure is not limited to the present embodiment. For example, in the case where the insertion/ejection of the optical filter 160 can be adjusted as one of the parameters for exposure control, the image capturing apparatus 100 can automatically insert and eject the optical filter 160 according to the brightness of the subject.

Example 9

Example 9 will now be described. The present embodiment will explain control of the foreign matter removal operation of the optical low-pass filter 122 in the configuration described in the above embodiments, based on the state of the optical filter 160 (the position in the inserted state (the first position) or the position in the retracted state (the second position)).

Referring now to fig. 32, the structure of the imaging unit 120 will be described. Fig. 32 is an exploded perspective view of the imaging unit 120. The piezoelectric element 124 has a single-plate rectangular bar shape, and is arranged, held, and attached (stuck) to the periphery of the optical low-pass filter 122 in such a manner that the long side of the piezoelectric element 124 is substantially parallel to the short side of the optical low-pass filter 122. A piezoelectric element Flexible Printed Circuit (FPC) board 620 is fixed to the piezoelectric element 124 by an adhesive or the like. The elastic member 611 is disposed in the optical low-pass filter holding member 123, and the optical low-pass filter 122 is held and sandwiched between the pressing elements 610. Due to this structure, the piezoelectric element 124 can vibrate the optical low-pass filter 122 to remove foreign substances from the surface of the optical low-pass filter 122.

Referring now to fig. 33, the structure of the piezoelectric element 124 will be described. Fig. 33 illustrates a piezoelectric element 124. The B-plane of the piezoelectric element 124 is divided into a G-phase and a + phase for exciting standing wave vibrations in the optical low-pass filter 122. The C-face of the piezoelectric element 124 is electrically connected by a conductive material (not shown) or the like, and maintains the same potential as that of the G-phase of the B-face. The piezoelectric element FPC board 620 is fixed to the B-side by an adhesive or the like so that a predetermined voltage can be applied to each of the +phase and the G-phase independently. The C-plane is fixed to the optical low-pass filter 122 by an adhesive or the like, and the piezoelectric element 124 is configured to move integrally with the optical low-pass filter 122.

Referring now to fig. 34, vibration of the optical low-pass filter 122 as the foreign matter removal operation will be described. Fig. 34 is a side view of the optical low-pass filter 122 and the piezoelectric element 124 attached and integrated therewith. Fig. 34 shows a state change (vibration shape) of the optical low-pass filter 122 and the piezoelectric element 124 in the case where a driving voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 124.

A positive voltage is applied to the + phase of the piezoelectric element 124 (while the G-phase is grounded) through the piezoelectric element FPC board 620. At this time, the piezoelectric element 124 expands in the planar direction and contracts in the thickness direction. The optical low-pass filter 122 attached to the piezoelectric element 124 receives a force in the direction in which the attachment surface expands. When such a force is applied and the optical low-pass filter 122 is viewed from the cross-sectional direction, the surface on the piezoelectric element 124 side is deformed in the expansion direction and the facing surface is deformed in the contraction direction. Thus, the optical low-pass filter 122 has a convex shape with the piezoelectric element 124 placed at the apex. This deformation is interlocked, and when the optical low-pass filter 122 is viewed in the cross-sectional direction, bending deformation occurs in which the concave-convex shape is continuous. That is, when a positive voltage is applied to the +phase, the optical low-pass filter 122 undergoes bending deformation indicated by a solid line shown in fig. 34.

Similarly, when a negative voltage is applied to the +phase (while the G-phase is grounded), the piezoelectric element 124 contracts in the surface direction and expands in the thickness direction. At this time, the optical low-pass filter 122 attached to the piezoelectric element 124 receives a force in the direction in which the attaching surface contracts. When such a force is applied and the optical low-pass filter 122 is viewed from the cross-sectional direction, the surface on the piezoelectric element 124 side is deformed in the contraction direction and the facing surface is deformed in the expansion direction. Accordingly, the optical low-pass filter 122 has a concave shape, and the piezoelectric element 124 is placed inside the concave shape. That is, the direction in which deformation occurs is opposite to the case where a positive voltage is applied to the +phase, the optical low-pass filter 122 undergoes bending deformation indicated by a broken line as shown in fig. 34.

Therefore, when the G phase is kept at the ground, standing wave vibration occurs when the state in which a positive voltage is applied to the +phase and the state in which a negative voltage is applied to the +phase are alternately and periodically switched. That is, due to the action of the piezoelectric element 124, periodic vibration is generated in which the state indicated by the solid line and the state indicated by the broken line in fig. 34 are alternately repeated. The frequency of the periodic voltage is set to a value close to the resonance frequency of the natural mode of the optical low-pass filter 122, and a large amplitude can be effectively provided even when a small voltage is applied. The optical low-pass filter 122 has a plurality of resonance frequencies, and applying voltages at the respective resonance frequencies can provide vibrations of different order vibration modes. Fig. 34 shows a seven-order (order) vibration mode having seven antinodes and an eight-order vibration mode having eight antinodes. Increasing the driving voltage to be applied increases the amplitude of the vibration generated in the optical low-pass filter 122, and tends to improve the foreign matter removal performance.

As shown in fig. 34, in the standing wave vibration, vibration nodes (f 1, f2, …, g1, g2, …) alternate with antinodes. The vibration node is a position where the amplitude becomes almost zero, and the vibration antinode is a position where the amplitude between adjacent nodes becomes maximum. In order to shake off dust or the like from the surface of the optical low-pass filter 122, it is necessary to generate acceleration such that a force greater than the adhesive force acts in the direction of peeling off the dust or the like. The acceleration is determined based on the frequency and amplitude of the vibrations generated in the optical low-pass filter 122. Since the amplitude is almost zero at the vibration node, the acceleration generated at the vibration node is also almost zero, and adhesion peeling dust and the like cannot be resisted. Therefore, if the optical low-pass optical filter 122 vibrates in a single vibration mode, dust or the like will remain on the vibration node.

To solve this problem, after the optical low-pass filter 122 vibrates in a certain vibration mode, the piezoelectric element 124 is controlled to vibrate the optical low-pass filter 122 in another vibration mode. Thereby, dust and the like remaining in the first vibration mode can be removed in the other subsequent vibration mode. In this case, if the node in one vibration mode overlaps with the node in the other vibration mode, dust or the like cannot be removed from the overlapping node. Thus, the vibration mode combinations used may be even nodes (odd orders) and odd nodes (even orders).

Although the resonance frequency of the optical low-pass filter 122 varies depending on the shape, thickness, material, etc. of the optical low-pass filter 122, the resonance frequency may be selected to be out of an audible range to suppress generation of unpleasant noise. Fig. 34 shows an embodiment in which vibrations are generated in a seventh-order vibration mode and an eighth-order vibration mode, but the present disclosure is not limited to this embodiment, and vibrations may be generated in other order vibration modes, or three or more vibration modes may be used. In general, the more vibration modes, the higher the foreign matter removal performance tends to be.

Referring now to fig. 35A and 35B, a relationship between the vibration frequency and amplitude of the optical filter 160 excited by the piezoelectric element 124 and the foreign matter removal operation mode will be described. Fig. 35A shows the relationship between the vibration frequency and the amplitude of the optical low-pass filter 122 excited by the piezoelectric element 124. In fig. 35A, the X-axis represents the vibration frequency, and the Y-axis represents the amplitude. As described with reference to fig. 34, fig. 35A shows five-order to nine-order vibration modes, in each of which an amplitude peak occurs. Although not shown, the vibration modes also exist on the low frequency side lower than the fifth-order vibration mode and on the high frequency side higher than the ninth-order vibration mode.

Referring now to fig. 35A, a description will be given of a normal mode of the foreign matter removal operation. The normal mode is indicated by a solid line in the figure. The driving voltage Vm is applied by the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145, and the vibration gradually changes from the high frequency side to the low frequency side in the frequency band R2 including the sixth-order vibration mode, the seventh-order vibration mode, and the eighth-order vibration mode. The driving is repeated N times within the frequency band R2.

Fig. 35B shows a table relating to parameters for changing the intensity of the operation mode of the foreign matter removal operation. Parameters for determining the foreign matter removal operation intensity include a driving voltage, a frequency band, the number of driving times, and the like. The driving voltage satisfies Vl < Vm < Vh. Regarding the influence of the driving voltage on the removal performance, the amplitude of the eighth-order vibration mode satisfies A8l < A8m < A8h with the driving voltages Vl, vm, vh applied, and the amplitude increases with an increase in voltage. Therefore, foreign matter tends to be removed. Therefore, regarding the removal performance, vl is set to the weak mode, vm is set to the normal mode, and Vh is set to the strong mode. Next, the frequency band is set as follows: r1 includes a sixth-order vibration mode and a seventh-order vibration mode, R2 includes a sixth-order vibration mode, a seventh-order vibration mode, and an eighth-order vibration mode, and R3 includes a sixth-order vibration mode, a seventh-order vibration mode, an eighth-order vibration mode, and a ninth-order vibration mode. Regarding the frequency band, the more vibration modes, the more antinodes in each vibration mode, and the better the removal performance tends to be. Accordingly, R1 is set to the weak mode, R2 is set to the normal mode, and R3 is set to the strong mode. Regarding the number of driving times, the greater the number of driving times becomes, the better the removal performance becomes. Thus, N-a is defined as a weak mode, N is defined as a normal mode, and n+b is defined as a strong mode.

The various modes of operation and parameters in the table shown in fig. 35B may be independently combined. For example, when only the driving voltage is changed, vl, R2, N provide a weak mode, vm, R2, N provide a normal mode, and Vh, R2, N provide a strong mode. When all parameters are to be changed, vl, R1, N-a provide a weak mode, vm, R2, N provide a normal mode, vh, R3, n+b provide a strong mode. Therefore, changing the parameters of the driving voltage, the frequency band, and the number of driving times can change the removal performance among the normal mode, the weak mode, and the strong mode.

The states before and after the foreign matter removal operation performed in the insertion state (first position) and the retreat state (second position) of the optical filter 160 will now be described with reference to fig. 36A, 36B, 37A, and 37B. Fig. 36A, 36B, 37A, and 37B are sectional views showing only the focal plane shutter 150, the optical filter 160, and the imaging unit 120 in the image pickup apparatus 100 as viewed from the top surface. As described above, the focal plane shutter 150 includes the front curtain shutter and the rear curtain shutter, and controls the exposure time of the image sensor 121. As shown in fig. 36A, 36B, 37A, and 37B, the focal plane shutter 150 includes a plurality of blade members, and exposure to the image sensor 121 is controlled by operating the blade members.

Fig. 36A and 36B show a position (first position) where the optical filter 160 is in the inserted state. Fig. 36A shows a state before the foreign matter removal operation is performed, and fig. 36B shows a state after the foreign matter removal operation is performed. In the case where the optical filter 160 is in the inserted state, as shown in fig. 36B, the foreign matter 630 removed from the optical low-pass filter 122 by the removing operation moves to a region around the imaging unit 120 that does not affect imaging, or adheres to the optical filter 160. In the case where the distance between the optical filter 160 and the optical low-pass filter 122 is shortened for the purpose of thinning the image pickup apparatus 100, more foreign substances tend to adhere to the optical filter 160.

Fig. 37A and 37B show a position (second position) where the optical filter 160 is in the retracted state. Fig. 37A shows a state before the foreign matter removal operation is performed, and fig. 37B shows a state after the foreign matter removal operation is performed. As shown in fig. 37B, the foreign matter 630 removed from the optical low-pass filter 122 by the foreign matter removal operation moves to an area around the imaging unit 120 that does not affect imaging, or is attached to the front curtain shutter and/or the rear curtain shutter of the focal plane shutter 150. Since the front curtain shutter and the rear curtain shutter of the focal plane shutter 150 are located farther from the optical low-pass filter 122 than the optical filter 160, foreign substances are less likely to adhere to the front curtain shutter and the rear curtain shutter. By operating the front curtain shutter and the rear curtain shutter, foreign matter attached to the focal plane shutter 150 is sprung and can move to an area that does not affect imaging.

Referring now to fig. 38, control of the foreign matter removal operation in the insertion state and the retreat state of the optical filter 160 will be described. If a foreign substance is present in the optical member arranged in the imaging optical path, a shadow of the foreign substance will be reflected in the photographed image. As shown in fig. 36A, 36B, 37A, and 37B, in order to prevent foreign matter removed from the optical low-pass filter 122 from adhering to the optical filter 160, the foreign matter removal operation may be reduced or not activated when the optical filter 160 is inserted.

Fig. 38 is a flowchart showing control of the foreign matter removal operation according to the present embodiment and showing a control method of weakening or stopping the foreign matter removal operation in the inserted state of the optical filter 160. First, in step S601, the MPU130 determines whether or not the foreign substance removal operation has started. In the case where an operation member such as the setting button 110 is pressed from the menu screen of the image pickup apparatus 100 and the switch sensing circuit 133 transmits a pressing input signal to the MPU130, a foreign substance removal operation is started. Alternatively, cursor keys, instruction buttons, or the like may be used for instructions in a menu displayed on the liquid crystal monitor 111 or the electronic viewfinder 112.

After the foreign matter removal operation starts, the flow proceeds to step S602. In step S602, the MPU130 determines whether the optical filter 160 is located at the retracted position (second position). As described above, the state of the optical filter 160 can be determined by transmitting a signal from a position detection sensor or the like disposed on the moving locus of the optical filter 160 or the holding member 200 to the MPU 130. In the case where the optical filter 160 is located at the retreat position, the flow advances to step S603. On the other hand, in the case where the optical filter 160 is located at the insertion position, the flow proceeds to step S610.

In step S603, the MPU130 transmits a driving instruction to the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145 to perform a foreign substance removal operation in the normal mode. In the case where the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145 receives a driving instruction from the MPU130, the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145 generates a periodic voltage that excites standing wave vibration of the optical low-pass filter 122, and applies the periodic voltage to the piezoelectric element 124. The piezoelectric element 124 expands and contracts in accordance with the applied voltage, causing the optical low-pass filter 122 to generate standing wave vibration. The foreign matter removal operation is performed in the normal mode described with reference to fig. 35A and 35B.

In step S610, the MPU130 determines whether or not an instruction to move the optical filter 160 to the retracted position (movement instruction) has been given by the user. When an operation member such as the multi-function button 113 or the setting button 110 is pressed, the switch induction circuit 133 detects the pressing as a movement instruction. In the case where there is a movement instruction, the flow proceeds to step S611. On the other hand, in the case where there is no movement instruction, the flow proceeds to step S620. There may be a mode in which step S610 is not set and the user is not instructed. In this case, in the case where the optical filter 160 is not located at the retreat position in step S602, the flow directly proceeds to step S620.

In step S611, the MPU 130 transmits a drive command to the optical filter drive circuit 137. The drive command moves the optical filter 160 to the retracted position. The detailed structure and state transitions are described above. Next, in step S612, the MPU 130 performs a foreign substance removal operation in the normal mode. Since this operation is similar to step S603, the explanation thereof will be omitted. Next, in step S613, the MPU 130 transmits a drive command to the optical filter drive circuit 137. The drive command causes the optical filter 160 to move to the insertion position. Step S613 is a process of returning the optical filter 160 to the insertion position before the movement to the retracted position in step S611 after the foreign matter removal operation is completed.

In step S620, the MPU 130 transmits a driving instruction to the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145 to perform a foreign substance removal operation in the weak mode. In the case where the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145 receives a driving instruction from the MPU 130, the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145 generates a periodic voltage that excites standing wave vibration of the optical low-pass filter 122, and applies the periodic voltage to the piezoelectric element 124. The piezoelectric element 124 expands and contracts in accordance with the applied voltage, causing the optical low-pass filter 122 to generate standing wave vibration. Here, the foreign matter removal operation is setting of parameters for the weak mode operation described with reference to fig. 35A and 35B. In step S620, in order to prevent foreign matter from adhering to the optical filter 160, the mpu 130 may perform control to stop the foreign matter removal operation. This is because some users want to prevent foreign substances from adhering to the optical filter 160 in a structure in which the optical filter 160 cannot be withdrawn.

Example 10

Embodiment 10 will be explained. This embodiment will explain a state of an insertion position or a retracted position of the optical filter 160 in the structure capable of replacing the optical filter 160 in the retracted state according to embodiment 1 or the like, and control of the foreign matter removal operation of the optical low-pass filter 122.

Referring now to fig. 39, a description will be given of a cleaning mode that actively attaches foreign matter inside the image pickup apparatus 100 to the optical filter 160 so as to exit the optical filter 160 and clean the optical filter 160, thereby removing foreign matter from inside the image pickup apparatus 100. Fig. 39 is a flowchart showing control of the foreign matter removal operation according to the present embodiment.

First, in step S630, the MPU 130 determines whether the cleaning mode has started. In the case where an operation member such as the setting button 110 is pressed from the menu screen of the image pickup apparatus 100 and the switch sensing circuit 133 transmits a pressing input signal to the MPU 130, the cleaning mode is started. Cursor keys, instruction buttons, etc. may be used for instructions in a menu displayed on the liquid crystal monitor 111 or the electronic viewfinder 112.

Next, in step S631, the MPU 130 receives an instruction to start the cleaning mode, and transitions the image pickup apparatus 100 to the cleaning mode state. Next, in step S632, the MPU 130 determines whether the optical filter 160 is located at the insertion position. The state of the optical filter 160 can be determined by transmitting a signal from a position detection sensor or the like arranged on the moving locus of the optical filter 160 or the holding member 200 as described above to the MPU 130. In the case where the optical filter 160 is located at the insertion position, the flow proceeds to step S633. On the other hand, in the case where the optical filter 160 is located at the retracted position, the flow proceeds to step S640.

In step S640, the MPU 130 determines whether to continue the cleaning mode. The cleaning mode is continued by pressing an operation member such as the setting button 110 from a menu screen of the image pickup apparatus 100 and transmitting a pressing input signal from the switch sensing circuit 133 to the MPU 130. Cursor keys, instruction buttons, etc. may be used for instructions in a menu displayed on the liquid crystal monitor 111 or the electronic viewfinder 112. In the case of continuing the cleaning mode, the flow proceeds to step S641. On the other hand, in the case where the cleaning mode is not continued, the flow proceeds to step S650.

In step S641, the MPU 130 transmits a drive command to the optical filter drive circuit 137, and the optical filter 160 moves to the insertion position. The detailed structure and state transitions are described above.

In step S633, the MPU 130 transmits a driving command to the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145 to perform a foreign substance removal operation in the strong mode. In the case where the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145 receives a driving command from the MPU 130, the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145 generates a periodic voltage that excites standing wave vibration of the optical low-pass filter 122, and applies the periodic voltage to the piezoelectric element 124. The piezoelectric element 124 expands and contracts in accordance with the applied voltage, and causes the optical low-pass filter 122 to generate standing wave vibration. The foreign matter removal operation is the setting of the operation parameters for the strong mode described with reference to fig. 35A and 35B. As described with reference to fig. 36B, when the optical filter 160 is located at the insertion position, in the case where the foreign matter removal operation is performed in the strong mode, the foreign matter of the optical low-pass filter 122 can be actively attached to the optical filter 160.

Next, in step S634, the MPU130 displays an instruction to exit the optical filter 160 on the liquid crystal monitor 111 or the electronic viewfinder 112. Due to this instruction, the user exits the optical filter 160, cleans the surface of the optical filter 160, and reinserts it into the image capturing apparatus 100. By cleaning the surface of the optical filter 160 to which foreign matter inside the image pickup apparatus 100 is attached, foreign matter inside the image pickup apparatus 100 can be removed by the optical filter 160.

In step S650, the MPU130 transmits a driving instruction to the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145 to perform a foreign substance removal operation in the normal mode. In the case where the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145 receives a driving instruction from the MPU130, the piezoelectric element driving circuit 145 generates a periodic voltage that excites standing wave vibration of the optical low-pass filter 122, and applies the periodic voltage to the piezoelectric element 124. The piezoelectric element 124 expands and contracts in accordance with the applied voltage, and causes the optical low-pass filter 122 to generate standing wave vibration. The foreign matter removal operation is the setting of the operation parameters for the normal mode described with reference to fig. 35A and 35B. At this time, the optical filter 160 is in the retracted state, and there is no concern that foreign matter may adhere to the optical filter 160 during the foreign matter removal operation. In order to save energy, driving in a normal mode is adopted instead of driving in a strong mode. In the case where the driving voltage, the frequency band, and the number of driving times related to the foreign matter removal performance are set to enhance the foreign matter removal performance, power consumption may increase. Therefore, it is effective to perform an appropriate foreign matter removal operation according to the positional state of the optical filter 160.

As described above, the image pickup apparatus 100 (100 a) includes the image sensor 121, the optical filter 160, the optical member (optical low-pass filter 122), the vibrator (piezoelectric element 124) that vibrates the optical member, and the control unit (MPU 130) that controls the vibrator. The optical filter is movable between a first position (insertion position) inserted into the imaging range (opening 190) and a second position (retreat position) retreated from the imaging range. The control unit changes the control depending on whether the optical filter is located at the first position or the second position.

The optical filter is movable between a first position and a second position according to a user's instructions. The control unit may change at least one of the amplitude, the frequency band, and the number of vibrations of the optical member depending on whether the optical filter is located at the first position or the second position. The control unit may set the amplitude to a first amplitude if the optical filter is located at the first position, and set the amplitude to a second amplitude greater than the first amplitude if the optical filter is located at the second position. The control unit may set the frequency band to a first frequency band if the optical filter is located at the first position, and set the frequency band to a second frequency band that is wider than the first frequency band if the optical filter is located at the second position. The control unit may set the number of drives (the number of drives) to a first number of drives in the case where the optical filter is located at the first position, and set the number of drives to a second number of drives greater than the first number of drives in the case where the optical filter is located at the second position. The control unit may not vibrate the optical member in a case where the optical filter is located at the first position. The optical member is not limited to the optical low-pass filter 122, and may be another optical member.

Each of the embodiments provides an image pickup apparatus capable of easily switching between a use state and a non-use state of an optical filter and appropriately controlling removal of foreign matter from a surface of an imaging unit.

While the present disclosure has been described with reference to the embodiments, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. The scope of the claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

For example, in embodiment 3 and embodiment 4, when the optical filter 160 is located between the first position and the second position, in the case where the foreign matter removal operation of the optical low-pass filter 122 is instructed, the optical low-pass filter 122 may be vibrated after the optical filter 160 is retracted to the second position. Further, for example, each of the embodiments discusses a structure for controlling the insertion/removal of the optical filter 160 in response to the user pressing the multi-function button 113, but the structure is not limited to this example. For example, in the case where the insertion/ejection of the optical filter 160 can be adjusted as one of the parameters used for exposure control, the image capturing apparatus 100 can automatically insert and eject the optical filter 160 according to the brightness of the subject.

Other embodiments

The embodiments of the present invention can also be realized by a method in which software (program) that performs the functions of the above embodiments is supplied to a system or apparatus, a computer of the system or apparatus or a method in which a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a Micro Processing Unit (MPU), or the like reads out and executes the program, through a network or various storage mediums.

Claims

1. An image pickup apparatus comprising:

an image sensor;

an optical filter;

a holding member configured to hold the optical filter;

a driving unit configured to move the holding member;

a grip portion to be gripped by a user; and

the control board is used for controlling the operation of the control board,

characterized in that the optical filter is movable by the drive unit between a first position inserted into the imaging range and a second position retracted from the imaging range in a direction from the first position toward the grip portion,

wherein the second position is located between the grip portion and the control panel.

2. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a recording medium insertion section for inserting and withdrawing the recording medium,

wherein the second position is located between the grip portion and the recording medium insertion portion.

3. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the optical filter is linearly movable by the driving unit in parallel with a plane orthogonal to the optical axis.

4. The image capturing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a moving direction of the optical filter coincides with an insertion/ejection direction of the recording medium.

5. The image capturing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a moving direction of the optical filter coincides with an insertion/ejection direction of a battery that can be inserted and ejected with respect to the image capturing apparatus.

6. An image pickup apparatus comprising:

an image sensor;

an optical filter;

a holding member configured to hold the optical filter;

a driving unit configured to move the holding member; and

a grip portion to be gripped by a user;

wherein the optical filter is movable between a first position inserted into an imaging range and a second position retracted from the imaging range by rotation in a direction from the first position toward the grip portion by the driving unit.

7. The image capturing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the optical filter is rotatable 90 degrees from the first position to the second position.

8. The image capturing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the second position is located between a battery removable from the image capturing apparatus and the imaging range.

9. The image capturing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the optical filter is retractable from the first position to the second position on a plane parallel to a plane orthogonal to an optical axis of the imaging optical system.

10. The image capturing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the optical filter is rotatable about an axis closer to a bottom surface of the image capturing apparatus than the optical axis.

11. The image capturing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the axis is closer to the bottom surface than the imaging range.

12. The image capturing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the axis is disposed between the optical axis and one short side, which is one short side close to the grip portion, of two short sides defining the imaging range, when viewed from a back side of the image capturing apparatus.

13. The image capturing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the driving unit is disposed closer to a bottom surface of the image capturing apparatus than the optical axis.

14. The image capturing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the driving unit is disposed closer to a bottom surface of the image capturing apparatus than the imaging range.

15. An image pickup apparatus comprising:

an image sensor;

an optical filter;

a holding member configured to hold the optical filter; and

a driving unit configured to move the holding member;

characterized in that the optical filter is movable by the drive unit between a first position inserted into the imaging range and a second position retracted from the imaging range,

wherein the optical filter is insertable and withdrawable at the second position.

16. An image pickup apparatus comprising:

an image sensor;

a first optical member;

a second optical member arranged parallel to the first optical member in an optical axis direction; and

a grip portion to be gripped by a user,

wherein the first optical member and the second optical member are each movable between a first position inserted into an imaging range and a second position retracted from the imaging range by rotating in a direction from the first position toward the grip portion.

17. An image pickup apparatus comprising:

an image sensor;

an optical filter;

an optical member disposed between the image sensor and the optical filter;

a vibrator configured to vibrate the optical member; and

a control unit configured to control the vibrator,

wherein the optical filter is movable between a first position inserted into the imaging range and a second position retracted from the imaging range,

wherein the control unit changes control depending on whether the optical filter is located at the first position or the second position.

18. The image pickup apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising a mount unit to which the lens apparatus is detachably attached,

characterized in that the optical filter is arranged between the image sensor and the mount unit.

19. The image capturing apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the imaging range is defined by an opening provided inside the mount unit.

20. The image capturing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the optical filter is an ND filter, a PL filter, or a softening filter.