JP2000214371A - Binoculars provided with visibility adjusting function - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To facilitate visibility adjusting operation, to prevent a visibility position set once from being changed, to realize sure adjustment and to hold setting by finely adjusting only either of right and left optical systems in an optical axis direction so that the difference of visibility may be made between the respective right and left optical systems. SOLUTION: A pair of binoculars is equipped with a cam mechanism functioning as a visibility adjusting means engaged with sliding plates 23R and 23L being a moving means for extending or withdrawing the lens barrel of an ocular system simultaneously in the optical axis direction by being elongated in a right-and-left direction and making the slight visibility difference in the optical system, especially, of the right and left optical systems. The cam mechanism includes an eccentric cam 32 formed to be deviated a specified eccentric amount from the shaft center on the extension of a visibility dial 8. A visibility adjusting mechanism 30 is mainly constituted of a cam constituting body, the visibility dial 8 giving turn force to the cam constituting body, a shaft member (a dial shaft 8a and a cam shaft 33) functioning as a turn shaft succeeding to the dial 8, and a cam plate 36 functioning as a drive transmitting means for transmitting the turn force to either of the right and left sliding plates 23R and 23L.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to diopter adjustment of binoculars and to a diopter adjustment mechanism therefor.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Normally, an observer who looks through binoculars in which the characteristics of optical systems in a pair of lens barrels are made uniform has a slight difference in visual acuity between both eyes (diopter difference). Therefore, binoculars having a diopter adjustment mechanism for correcting such a slight difference in visual acuity have been conventionally proposed. Usually, the diopter-adjustable binoculars are provided with a diopter adjustment knob in one of the left and right lens barrels so as to be manually operable. Immediately after this, the diopter adjustment dial is turned to slightly move the focal length of only one of the optical systems so that fine adjustment can be made.

For example, the binoculars disclosed in JP-A-8-43708 have a diopter adjustment mechanism that adjusts diopter by moving an eyepiece of a movable lens barrel (moving lens barrel) in the optical axis direction. Have. A diopter adjustment dial for that purpose is provided on one of the movable lens barrels, and an exterior member that covers the fixed lens barrel (fixed lens barrel) adjusts the diopter in the housed state where the left and right lens barrels are closest. It has a structure to hide the dial. In each of the left and right lens barrels, a lens barrel part for focus adjustment and a lens barrel part for diopter adjustment are independent of each other. The binoculars have a structure in which, when the left and right lens barrels are moved and separated from the storage position by a predetermined distance or more, the diopter dial projects from the end of the exterior member to a position that can be manually operated. It can also secure a runaway nose. Of course, the focus adjustment knob for focusing on the object is provided as a center focus ring between the lens barrels that can simultaneously operate the focal length of the optical system of both lens barrels, and focus operation than the conventional “single extension method” Has become easier. In addition, in the related art, there are a diopter adjustment dial that is hard to be displaced after setting, and a diopter with a diopter scale.

In such binoculars, the distance between the two lens barrels can be changed according to the eye width of the observer, and the size of the binoculars is made as small and light as possible so as to be suitable for carrying when stored. For example, the entire housing is rectangular and flat. It is shaped and made depending on the prism system used. Further, as means for protecting the lenses of the respective optical systems, there are, for example, those having a lens barrier and those having a structure in which the objective lens and the eyepiece can be completely retracted inside the binocular body.

[0005]

Normally, the diopter adjustment dial itself does not need to be operated during periods when the binoculars are not used, particularly unless focusing is performed. In other words, it is desirable that the diopter adjustment dial be retracted and stored in a place where it cannot be moved, or protected so as not to come into contact with something, when not used as binoculars. And
When using the binoculars, it is assumed that some adjustment is made by the observer. For example, at the time of focusing, it must be extended to a position where this diopter adjustment operation can be performed. However, those provided with a diopter adjustment function represented by the exemplified conventional binoculars have a problem with respect to ease of operation.

Further, there is an apparatus in which an optical system including an objective lens and an eyepiece is moved in the direction of the optical axis in conjunction with adjustment of a lens barrel interval of binoculars, that is, adjustment of an interpupillary distance. Binoculars of a type in which the lens barrel is further extended in the optical axis direction than the binocular body are also known, but as the mechanism for the binocular becomes more complicated, a space for retracting the mechanism must be secured in the exterior member, which is a design problem. And make it difficult to make the housing of the binoculars more compact.

Recently, binoculars have been proposed in which both the lens barrels on the objective lens side and the eyepiece side are extended and retracted in opposite directions with focus adjustment. However, such binoculars do not have a diopter adjustment dial itself, and even if the lens barrel is completely retracted inside the body, one of the lens barrels has a diopter adjustment dial Has not been proposed, and is inconvenient to use for a user who needs diopter adjustment. In addition, in the structure of the binoculars disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-43708, the configuration of the diopter adjustment mechanism can move the eyepiece holding frame 17 in the optical direction with the diopter dial. However, a configuration for performing focus adjustment is not described.

Accordingly, the present invention has been made in view of the above situation, and an object of the present invention is to make it easier for an observer to perform a diopter adjustment operation when adjusting the focus.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a pair of binoculars that can prevent a change in a preset diopter position when not used and can surely adjust and maintain the setting.

[0009]

According to the present invention, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, diopter adjustment is originally performed after focusing on an object, and the observation is performed in a focused state. Focusing on the fine adjustment based on the diopter unique to the observer, the operation is facilitated by a simple mechanism, and the position of the diopter adjustment dial once set is maintained as long as the observer does not change. The following measures are taken in consideration of preventing the position from changing at the time or storage. In the binoculars of the present invention, each of the left and right lens barrels is applied to one having a structure in which a lens barrel part for focus adjustment and a lens barrel part for diopter adjustment are integrally formed and can be used together. ing.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, in a pair of binoculars having a diopter adjusting function, a pair of left and right optical systems, and these optical systems are simultaneously extended or retracted in the optical axis direction. Moving means capable of moving in the direction, focus adjusting means for moving a pair of front and rear optical systems constituting the optical system in opposite optical axis directions, and only one of the left and right optical systems in the optical axis direction. A binocular provided with diopter adjustment means for finely moving the diopter between the right and left optical systems is proposed. The cam constituting the diopter adjusting means is, for example, an eccentric cam.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, a pair of optical systems, the first moving means for simultaneously extending or retracting these optical systems in the direction of the optical axis, and the pair of optical systems in the direction of the optical axis opposite to each other. Focus adjusting means for moving and changing the focal length, and second moving means movable in the left-right direction in conjunction with the pair of lens barrels and movable in the optical axis direction in conjunction with the movement of the first moving means We propose binoculars with diopter adjustment function equipped with. Further, according to the third invention, a pair of optical systems, a first moving means for simultaneously extending or retracting these optical systems in the optical axis direction, and a mechanism for moving the optical systems in opposite optical axis directions. A focus adjusting means; and a second moving means movable in the left-right direction in conjunction with the pair of lens barrels and movable in the optical axis direction in conjunction with the movement of the first moving means. A binocular with a diopter adjustment function is proposed in which a pair of second means can be moved in opposite optical axis directions by a focus adjustment means which simultaneously moves the second movement means in the optical axis direction in conjunction with the movement of the movement means.

[0012]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, the gist of the present invention will be described in detail based on a plurality of embodiments with reference to the drawings. (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 illustrates the appearance of binoculars as a first embodiment. The state of the illustrated binoculars is such that the pair of left and right lens barrels can be extended forward and backward in the optical axis direction, respectively, and used for observation. The binoculars include a first eyepiece lens system 6L and an objective lens system 7L having the same first optical axis.
(5L, 6L, 7L) and an optical system 5R composed of a right eyepiece system 6R and an objective lens system 7R arranged on a second optical axis parallel to the first optical axis. A housing (casing) 2 including two lens barrels (5R, 6R, 7R) is provided. A housing 2 forming the binocular main body 1 is provided so as to be covered from the left and right with exterior covers 3L and 3R that can be separated and approached to the left and right between the first optical axis and the second optical axis. These exterior covers 3
L and 3R slide in the left and right directions (X axis direction), respectively.
That is, it is slidable, and is mounted so that it can be expanded while holding it with both hands until it matches the interpupillary distance. The housing 2 includes eyepiece lens systems 6L and 6R and objective lens systems 7L and 7R.
These four positions are located at the left, right, front and
Each lens barrel has a substantially circular notch that can be extended / retracted.

Similarly, the left and right exterior covers 3L and 3R are provided with opening ends 9L and 9R from which the respective lens barrels of the objective lens systems 7L and 7R can protrude, respectively. An opening end (not shown) is provided so that each lens barrel of 6R can protrude.

Further, inside the housing 2, eyepiece lens systems 6L and 6R, objective lens systems 7L and 7R, and
For example, a space is provided so that the optical systems 5L and 5R including the roof prism and the like can be accommodated as shown in the drawing. Further, an objective having a wall surface on the eyepiece lens system 6L, 6R side having these opening ends (not shown) for the corresponding eyepiece lens systems 6L, 6R and an opening for the corresponding objective lens systems 7R, 7L. Vertical wall surfaces on the lens systems 7L and 7R side are suspended,
In particular, near the center of the vertical wall surface on the eyepiece lens system 6L, 6R side, a concave nose pad for allowing the observer's nose to escape is formed.

A moving means which can move each of the eyepiece lens systems 6L, 6R and the objective lens systems 7L, 7R so that they can be easily moved back and forth along the respective optical axis directions. (Details described later: see FIG. 3). In the vicinity of the center of the upper surface of the housing 2 which is separated to the left and right between the first optical axis and the second optical axis, a focus adjustment ring 4 for focus adjustment (that is, focusing) to be described later is close to the upper half thereof. Is rotatably provided in a state where is exposed.

Further, a diopter adjustment dial 8 (hereinafter abbreviated as "diopter dial") as diopter adjustment operation means is exposed below the bottom of the housing 2 as shown by a broken line, and is not shown. It is rotatably provided to operate a mechanism (see FIGS. 4 to 7). As described above, it can be seen that the binoculars of the present invention are configured such that all four lens barrels can be simultaneously moved with respect to the housing 2 by a focus adjustment mechanism (see FIG. 4) described later.

The state of the binocular main body 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 is a case where the diopter dial 8 is exposed downward from the bottom surface and can be rotated, and this state is the optical axis of the left and right lens barrels. This shows a state in which the interval is widened to some extent and the eye width adjustment position is observable with this width. On the other hand, if the binoculars are not used for observation, the binoculars have a structure that can be reduced to the following compact size by minimizing the optical axis interval of the lens barrel portion from this state when stored or carried. .

FIG. 2 shows the appearance of the main body 1 in a compact state in which the binoculars according to the present invention are not used.
Each of the four barrel portions of the illustrated binoculars is completely retracted and stored in the housing 2 and becomes unusable, and the diopter dial 8 indicated by a broken line does not move even when operated. (Details will be described later). The retraction operation of the four lens barrels respectively corresponding to the eyepiece systems 6L, 6R and the objective lens systems 7L, 7R is performed as follows. That is, the lens barrels of the binoculars are brought into the retracted state as shown in FIG. 2 from the usable state extended to, for example, near the infinite focal length shown in FIG. To accommodate the eyepiece system 6L, the observer slides horizontally (MX) from the left and right to close the outer covers 3L, 3R, and rotates the focus adjustment ring 4 to the far side. 6R and the objective lens systems 7L and 7R are revolved in the directions of the spaces 5L and 5R,
Operate manually until fully retracted to each stowed position.

At the time of adjusting the interpupillary distance unique to the observer at the time of observation, the outer covers 3L and 3R having a substantially “U” -shaped cross section are pulled out in both directions of the housing 2 so that the four outer covers 3L and 3R are pulled out. Each of the lens barrel portions is extended forward and backward in conjunction with this operation, and is brought into a state as shown in the drawing, in which observation is possible.
In other words, for example, a “sliding method” in which the optical axis interval of the optical system can be adjusted is applied to the pair of left and right lens barrels, and this method makes it possible to extend / retract and securely store. . Since the sliding mechanism related to the outer covers 3L and 3R is a known technique, the description thereof is omitted here.

As described above, in the binoculars of the present invention, all four lens barrels are moved to the housing 2 by sliding operation in the MX direction.
This binocular body 1 can be completely retracted and stored inside.
Is a compact state convenient for portability, and has a shape approximating a simple rectangle as shown in FIG.

When the binoculars as described above are actually used for observation, the observer first slides the outer covers 3L, 3R outward to move the lens barrel from the minimum interpupillary distance to a desired interpupillary position. Can be. That is, when actually observing and using the binoculars from the stowed state, the observer further extends each lens barrel while turning the focus adjustment ring 4 and also moves the outer covers 3L, 3R in the left-right direction as shown in FIG. The interpupillary distance is also adjusted while sliding left and right. As a result of this, the eyepiece lens system 6R is also extended to a desired observation position by the focus adjustment mechanism 20, and the operation is stopped at a position where the object is almost in focus (see FIG. 1). After that, the diopter dial 8 is finely adjusted by rotating the diopter dial 8 to a diopter position where the observer can more clearly see. As a result, in the diopter position obtained by the fine adjustment, the visual field range provided by the eyepiece lens systems 6L and 6R and the objective lens systems 7L and 7R is clearly secured.

On the other hand, the binocular body 1 can be used (FIG. 1)
2), the outer covers 3L, 3R are first slid in a direction to close toward the center, and thereafter, the outer covers 3L, 3R are operated in the opposite direction to operate the eyepiece system 6 in the opposite direction.
L, 6R and the objective lens systems 7L, 7R can be moved to protected positions.

Note that lens barriers (not shown) may be provided inside the opening ends 9L and 9R to protect each lens surface from dust and scratches. When stored in the housing 2, the optical paths facing the eyepiece lens systems 6L, 6R and the objective lens systems 7L, 7R enter and exit so that they can be cut off. May be.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the structure and operation of the focus adjustment mechanism 20 and diopter adjustment mechanism 30 of the binoculars of the present invention will be described in detail. First, FIG. 3 partially shows the internal structure of the binocular main body 1 by cutting off the upper surface of the housing 2 in order to explain the focus adjusting mechanism 20 of the binoculars as the first embodiment of the present invention. The binocular body 1
A housing 2 serving as the housing, and an objective lens in a pair of lens barrels disposed on both sides of the housing 2 and slidable so as to be always symmetrical with respect to the housing 2. System 7L (7R) and eyepiece system 6
L (, 6R) is arranged (however, the left optical system is illustrated in the figure). The focus adjustment mechanism 20 is mounted on the housing so that the optical systems corresponding to the eyepiece lens systems 6L, 6R and the objective lens systems 7L, 7R disposed in the front, rear, left and right lens barrels can be moved in the optical axis direction. 2 is provided near the center.

A diopter dial 8 as a diopter adjusting operation means having a diopter fine adjustment function for one of the left and right eyepiece systems is mounted near one side (right side) of a lens barrel (not shown). A diopter adjustment mechanism 30 (see FIG. 4) for mechanically performing diopter difference control by the control unit 8 is formed.

As described above, the focus adjusting mechanism 20 at the center of the housing 2 includes the first slide plate 26L slidably arranged in the optical axis direction on the eyepiece side and the objective lens system 7
The second groove 24 is slidably arranged in the optical axis direction on the R and 7L sides. By sliding along the eyepiece cam 17 and the objective cam 18), a parallel movement mechanism is formed as a moving means of the optical system of the objective lens system 7L and the eyepiece system 6L with the rotation of the cam shaft 15. I have.

At the ends of the first slide plate 23L and the second slide plate 24L, eyepiece frames 47 for holding an eyepiece 45 are arranged with their optical axes aligned. At the opposite ends of the first slide plate 23R and the second slide plate 24R, mirror frames for holding an eyepiece (not shown) are also arranged so as to share the same optical axis.

The upper surface of the first slide plate 23L is provided with an oval-shaped small hole 13L having a relatively short stroke and having a height protruding from the inner surface 2a of the housing 2. A relatively short pin is fitted and guides in the optical axis direction. Similarly, an oval small hole 14L having a relatively short stroke is formed on the upper surface of the second slide plate 24L, and the small hole 14L also has a relatively short height protruding from the inner surface 2a of the housing 2. Pin is inserted. The small-length holes 13L to 14R have a long diameter which is adjustable.
L (, 6R) and the movable distance of the objective lens system 7L (, 7R) in the optical axis direction.

A focus shaft (cam shaft) 15 as a rotation axis for the focus adjustment is rotatably disposed, and substantially half of the housing 2 is exposed from the center of the upper surface of the housing 2 to be used for manual operation by a user. By rotating the ring 4, the shaft 15 can be rotated. The focal length of the optical system is changed by the parallel movement of each optical system along with the integral rotation so that the object to be observed is focused. It is configured. Also, as shown in the drawing, one guide path (spiral groove) 17, 1
8 is formed, and this path is formed by a characteristic cam groove 8a formed obliquely, and the eyepiece pin 27 and the objective pin 2 are formed.
8.

That is, the focus adjusting mechanism 20 as the focus adjusting means mainly includes the focus ring 4, the focus shaft 15, and the focus ring 4 for moving the pair of optical systems in opposite optical axis directions.
It is formed in a structure including an eyepiece pin 27 and an objective pin 28. More specifically, the focus adjusting mechanism 20 of the binoculars is formed with a spiral first cam (eyepiece cam 17) for engaging with the eyepiece system and moving the eyepiece system in the optical axis direction. A first rotating shaft, and a second rotating shaft formed with a helical second cam (objective cam 18) for engaging with the objective lens system and moving the objective lens system in the optical axis direction. And a focus ring 4 for adjusting the focus for simultaneously rotating the first and second rotation axes in the D0 or D1 direction.

The eyepiece cam 17 is formed continuously in the first direction as a spiral groove on the peripheral surface of the first rotating shaft which engages with the eyepiece lens system, while the objective cam 18 is connected to the objective lens system. A first groove is formed as a spiral groove on the peripheral surface of the second rotating shaft to be engaged.
It is formed continuously in a second direction opposite to the direction. Therefore, the first rotary shaft and the second rotary shaft are simultaneously driven in or out according to the direction in which the focus ring 4 is turned.

A support rod 29 for holding, for example, the first slide plate 23L with a predetermined amount of force so as to be able to translate in the opposite directions of the optical axis direction.
However, it is provided penetrating the eyepiece frame 47 in the optical axis direction.

FIG. 4 is an assembly view showing the structure of the main part of the diopter adjusting mechanism 30 for binoculars according to the present invention. Further, the relationship between the slide plates 23L and 23R related to the diopter adjustment mechanism 30 and the moving means is also shown. As described above, the slide plates 23R and 2R having the lens barrel portions of the eyepiece lens system (6L, 6R) of the optical system of the binoculars at the left and right ends, respectively.
3L are provided so as to extend in the left-right direction, and are provided as moving means so that they can be simultaneously extended or retracted in the optical axis direction (Z direction). Also, for the diopter adjustment function,
The left and right optical systems are provided with a cam mechanism as diopter adjustment means which engages with the moving means and causes a slight diopter difference particularly in the eyepiece lens systems 6L and 6R. This cam mechanism has a characteristic configuration including an eccentric cam formed to be deviated by a predetermined eccentric amount from the axis on the extension of the diopter dial 8 as shown in the figure, and the optical axes of the left and right eyepiece lens systems 6L and 6R are formed. A mechanism that makes a difference in directional movement.

On the other hand, the diopter adjustment mechanism 30 includes a cam structure that forms the above-described cam mechanism, a diopter dial 8 that applies a rotating force to the cam structure, and a shaft member (a rotating shaft that follows). It mainly comprises a dial shaft 8a and a cam shaft 33) and a cam plate 36 as a drive transmission means for transmitting the turning power to one of the left and right slide plates 23R and 23L. The cam plate 3 constituting the diopter adjustment mechanism 30
Reference numeral 6 denotes an important member for moving only one of these optical systems in the optical axis direction (Z direction). In this example, a concave cam plate 36 is mounted on one slide plate 23L from above. It is attached as it is. The combination of the eccentric cam 32 and the sliding contact pin 34 formed on the cam plate 36 functions as a conversion unit that can convert the turning power into a force in the optical axis direction. as a result,
By turning the diopter dial 8 arbitrarily, in particular, only the eyepiece system 6L supported by the left slide plate 23L moves in the optical axis direction within a small stroke range.

In other words, when the eccentric cam 32 rotates, a part of the projecting peripheral surface of the cam surface comes into contact with the sliding contact pin 34 protruding from the cam plate 36. At this time, the sliding contact pin 34 rotates Since the pressure is received from the eccentric cam 32 to be moved and this force is transmitted to the slide plate 23L, the slide plate 23L to which the cam plate 36 is attached is slightly moved in the optical axis direction where the cam plate 36 can be moved.

In the combination of the slide plates 23L, 23R and the outer covers 3L, 3R, a pair of left and right lens barrels are moved in the horizontal direction (X direction) by the focus adjusting mechanism 20 via the moving means. However, it also functions as an interpupillary distance adjusting means that can move the pair of lens barrels to a position matching a desired interpupillary distance in conjunction with the movement of the moving means.

A slide plate 23 for this interpupillary distance adjusting means.
Slots 26 with different widths are provided in L and 23R.
L and 26R are formed, and this difference in width can be a movement difference in the optical axis direction described later. On the other hand, a round hole 37 is formed in the cam plate 36, and a long hole 25 is formed in the bottom surface of the housing 2 in the optical axis direction. And these long holes 26
L, 26R, the round hole 37 and the long hole 25,
A cam shaft 33 as a rotation shaft of the cam mechanism is mounted,
These members are movably connected.

That is, the cam mechanism for the adjustment function of the binoculars has a cam plate 36 provided with a sliding contact pin 34 projecting in the vertical direction, and these elongated holes 26L, 26R so as to be able to contact the sliding contact pin 34. It can be seen that the present invention is characterized by a structure including the eccentric cam 32 so as to engage each member through the round hole 37 and the long hole 25 so as to support the members.

Eccentric cam 32 constituting diopter adjusting mechanism 30
Is rotated via the diopter dial 8, a part of the projecting peripheral surface of the cam surface comes into contact with the sliding contact pin 34 provided on the cam plate 36. At this time, the sliding contact pin 34
By transmitting the force received from the eccentric cam 32 to be rotated to the slide plate 23L, the slide plate 23L on which the cam plate 36 is mounted is slightly moved in the optical axis direction that can move as the above-described movement difference by this force. It is moved while. The travel distance (stroke) of this movement is used as corresponding to the diopter difference.

That is, the diopter adjustment mechanism 30 includes a diopter dial 8 that is manually turned to adjust the diopter, and a drive transmission member (cam shaft 33) that transmits the turning power of the dial.
And a cam mechanism (eccentricity) as a converting member for changing the pair of eyepiece lens systems 6L and 6R into a force for changing the relative position in the optical axis direction based on the force transmitted via the transmitting member. Sliding contact pin 34 for cam 32 and cam plate 36
).

Here, the structure of the diopter adjustment mechanism 30 of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 5 (a) to 5 (c) show the interpupillary distance adjusting mechanism and the main part of the diopter adjusting mechanism 30, and show an enlarged view of the relationship between the diopter dial 8 and related members arranged in the vicinity thereof. ing. According to the plan view (a), the cam plate 36 and the slide plate 2
The arrangement relation of these mechanisms including 3L and 23R can be understood. Further, according to the sectional views (b) and (c), the sectional structure of each mechanism can be understood. That is, the cam plate 36 is overlapped so as to transmit a force around the slide plate 23L.
This force is not transmitted to R. The diopter dial 8 has a hollow dial shaft 8a protruding therefrom, and a cam shaft 33 is fitted into the dial shaft 8a. As shown in FIG. 4, an eccentric cam 32 having, for example, an elliptical cross-sectional shape is attached to the other end of the cam shaft 33 so as to be shifted from its axis. The eccentric cam 32 also rotates, but at a predetermined position, the eccentric cam 32 hits the sliding contact pin 34, and the turning power is converted into a horizontal force. Note that the shape of the eccentric cam 32 and the magnitude of the eccentricity are design requirements that can arbitrarily set the length of the stroke, that is, the magnitude of the diopter difference, and can be changed as desired.

Next, the movements of the interpupillary distance adjusting mechanism and the diopter adjusting mechanism 30 linked to the focus adjusting mechanism 20 having the above-described structure will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in the plan view (a) and the sectional views (b) and (c), in the structure of the diopter adjustment mechanism 30 described above, when the observer turns the diopter dial 8, the eccentric cam 32 slides. As the cam plate 36 rotates while sliding on the contact pin 34, the cam plate 36
Is moved in the optical axis direction, the moving range (stroke) in the optical axis direction is defined within the range of the difference between the widths of the respective slide holes 26L and 26R. That is, the cam plate 36 and the slide plate 23L move in conjunction with each other, but the slide plate 23R
It can be seen that a movement different from the movement of the eccentric cam 32 by a difference corresponding to the eccentricity of the eccentric cam 32 is generated. Therefore, as long as the diopter dial 8 is not turned, the left and right slide plates 2
It can be seen that the deviation of the 3L and 23R in the optical axis direction does not change, and the set diopter position is maintained.

As described above, the rotation of the diopter dial 8 in the diopter adjustment mechanism 30 is converted by this cam structure which changes the movement of the eyepiece lens system 6R into a minute movement in the optical axis direction. When the diopter dial 8 is rotated, the eyepiece lens system 6R is slightly or slightly extended within a certain range in the direction, and fine adjustment of the focal length is performed by one optical system, for example, the eyepiece lens system 6R. You can see that.

FIGS. 7A to 7C show a state in which the pupil is slid to the maximum pupil distance by the pupil distance adjusting mechanism.
Indicates the positional relationship between the interpupillary adjustment mechanism and the diopter adjustment mechanism at this time. The sectional views (b) and (c) show the sectional structure of each mechanism at this time. When the slide operation is performed in the X direction in FIG. 6, the left end of the slide hole 26R is provided at the right end of the slide hole 26L as shown in FIG.
They coincide via the cam pins 33. This state is the limit of the movement of the slide plate corresponding to the maximum interpupillary distance.

As described above, the left and right slide plates 23L, 23L
It can be seen that the 3R can slide to the maximum in the horizontal direction to provide almost the maximum interpupillary distance. It is understood that the interpupillary distance can be adjusted by the structure including the moving means described in FIG. Here, as long as the diopter dial 8 is not rotated, the "deviation" in the optical axis direction of the left and right slide plates 23L and 23R does not change.

(Function and Effect 1) As described above, the binoculars having the diopter adjusting function shown in the first embodiment include a pair of optical systems, moving means for extending or retracting these optical systems simultaneously, and Opposite optical axis directions (Z
Focus adjustment mechanism 20 as focus adjustment means for moving in the direction
(For example, a cam pin), and by employing a characteristic eccentric cam 32 for the diopter adjustment mechanism 30, the following operational effects can be obtained in the binoculars. First, when the four lens barrels (that is, the lens systems 6L, 6R, 7L, 7R) are extended / retracted by rotating the focus ring 4 of the focus adjustment mechanism 20, this one lens barrel (for example, the eyepiece lens system 6) is used.
Diopter dial 8 fixedly attached to R lens barrel)
The turning operation of the diopter dial 8 causes the elongated hole 25 formed in the lower surface of the exterior cover 3R of the binocular main body 1 to be opened.
Move along. Further, since only the lens system 6R among the four lenses can be finely moved in the optical axis direction by rotating the diopter dial 8, the diopter can be adjusted by the operation.

(Modification 1) In the first embodiment, the diopter adjustment mechanism 30 may not be moved except in a state where a focusing operation for focus adjustment is possible. Also, for example, when trying to adjust the interpupillary distance, by temporarily fixing the diopter dial 8 so as not to move as described above, the eyepiece lens systems 6L and 6R and the objective lens systems 7L and 7R can be adjusted. Even if there is an extension, the set diopter difference may be maintained, and the observer may not need to make another adjustment while newly looking at the eye.

Further, when the observer finely adjusts the focus, the diopter dial 8 is exposed at the extended position where it can be operated, so that the diopter can be easily adjusted. On the other hand, when not in use, the diopter dial 8 is fixed so as not to move even if there is contact with a diopter adjustment operation or other objects, so that the diopter difference once set at the time of use is retained to prevent a change. Help. That is, the diopter dial 8 is securely fixed when not in use, such as in a portable or stored state, and can be smoothly adjusted as desired when used.

Further, the diopter adjustment mechanism 30 in the first embodiment enables the diopter adjustment of the left and right eyepiece optical systems by fine movement of one of the eyepiece lens systems 6L, 6R, for example, the eyepiece lens system 6L. However, the opposite eyepiece lens system 6R may be provided to slightly move the opposite eyepiece lens system. In this case, the eyepiece lens system 6R is arranged symmetrically with respect to the above-mentioned example and functions are shared. This can be achieved by changing, and a similar effect can be obtained.

(Second Embodiment) FIG. 8 illustrates the appearance of binoculars as a second embodiment of the present invention, and shows a state in which the lens barrel is completely retracted into the housing 2. .
As shown in the figure, the binoculars main body 1 is provided with a diopter dial 8 for adjusting diopter by rotating operation, which is slidably exposed on a side surface of one of the outer covers 3L.

The following describes parts different from the focus adjusting mechanism 20 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 3. One feature of the second embodiment is that the long hole 35 is formed in the left outer cover 3L. It can be seen that the diopter dial 8 has an opening in the side wall so that the diopter dial 8 can be moved along the elongated hole 35 on the side surface of the exterior cover 3L. However, in the binoculars at the time of storage shown here, since external force is applied in the Mx direction for storage and the size is made compact, there is no need to adjust diopter by the diopter adjustment mechanism. As a result, the diopter dial 8 is also slightly immersed in the housing 2, so that it is difficult to rotate (refer to FIG. 11 described later in detail).

On the other hand, the state shown in FIG. 9 is a state in which both lens barrels are extended out of the housing 2 and are observable and the diopter dial 8 in the elongated hole 35 is turned in the direction of the arrow. Only the left eyepiece lens system 6L can be slightly moved in the optical axis direction to produce a diopter difference. Also, at this time, it can be seen that, similarly to the above, the eyelids can be widened right and left by the outer covers 3L and 3R, and the focus ring 4 can be turned to operate the focus adjustment mechanism to further extend the four lens barrels.

FIG. 10 illustrates in detail the structures of the focus adjustment mechanism and the diopter adjustment mechanism in the second embodiment. It can be seen from the drawing that a focus adjustment mechanism 20 substantially similar to that described above and a diopter adjustment mechanism 30 having a simpler structure are provided. That is, the pinion gear 31 is attached to the other end of the diopter dial 8 as the diopter adjusting operation means, and meshes with the pinion gear 31 on the outer surface of the eyepiece frame 47 having the secondary eyepiece lens 45. As described above, a rack 38 having teeth formed along the optical axis direction is provided. Then, it can be seen that the eyepiece frame 47 having the rack 38 is slightly moved in the optical axis direction by the turning operation of the diopter dial 8.

The moving range (stroke) for adjusting the diopter can be arbitrarily set according to the length of the rack 38, that is, the number of teeth formed on the rack 38 or the number of teeth of the pinion gear 31. is there. In addition, other related mechanisms and members are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment described above, so that detailed description thereof will be omitted. However, the diopter adjustment mechanism 30 according to the second embodiment has a feature that further includes a mechanism that can fix the once set diopter position so as not to move.
The preset diopter position can be maintained by a click structure described later.

A description will now be given of the click means relating to the diopter adjustment operation means including the diopter dial 8 shown in FIGS. 11 (a) to 11 (c). According to FIG. 11 (a), a dial shaft 8a integral with the diopter dial 8 and a pinion gear 31 screwed or fitted to the tip of the dial shaft 8a transfer the rotating power to a rack 32 (not shown). For transmission, it is fixed at its tip via a dial shaft 8a. A narrow groove extending in the longitudinal direction is provided on the peripheral surface of the dial shaft 8a, and it can be seen that the ridge adjacent to the groove has a click structure forming a click means.

FIG. 11B shows the diopter dial 8 and its dial shaft 8a in an enlarged scale.
“a” indicates sliding movement along the elongated hole 35 (or the elongated hole 25 of the first embodiment) formed on the side surface of the main body. Note that the dial shaft 8a has a slightly tapered shape in the longitudinal direction, and the diopter dial 8 side is thick. When pushed in the direction of the housing 2, the peripheral surface of the dial shaft 8 a comes into contact with the side surface of the elongated hole 35. Therefore, the eyepiece lens system 6R is in strong contact with the ridge formed on the peripheral surface of the shaft at the retracted position in the optical axis direction, so that the dial 8 is difficult to rotate.

Further, it can be seen that a sharp projection is formed on the peripheral surface of the dial shaft 8a, for example, a star-shaped projection as shown in FIG. 11 (c) is formed. Thereby, especially in the case where the storing operation is accompanied, the convex portion is formed into the elongated hole 35.
It can be seen that the position of the dial 8 is maintained by contacting the side of the dial.

(Function and Effect 2) As described above, in the binoculars having the diopter adjusting function shown in the second embodiment, the four lens barrels (that is, the lens systems 6L to 7R) are connected to the focusing ring of the focus adjusting mechanism 20. In the case of extending / retracting by rotating operation 4, one of the lens barrels (for example, the lens barrel of the eyepiece system 6R)
The diopter dial 8 fixedly provided with respect to moves along the elongated hole 35 formed in the side surface of the exterior cover 3L of the binocular main body 1 by the turning operation of the diopter dial 8. Further, since only the lens system 6R among the four lenses can be finely moved in the optical axis direction by rotating the diopter dial 8, the diopter can be adjusted.

The illustrated diopter dial 8 is fixed at a position where it can be operated together with the optical system of the eyepiece lens system 6R and cannot be operated. However, for example, the lens barrel of the eyepiece lens system 6R is completely removed. Even when the diopter dial 8 is not stored in the housing 2, the diopter dial 8 is mechanically clicked and does not move. Therefore, instead of applying the conventional lock mechanism for fixing the movement of the diopter dial 8, This click mechanism is applied as a means for restricting the diopter dial 8. This allows the diopter dial 8 to reliably maintain the set diopter position when not in use such as in a portable or stored state, but allows the diopter adjustment operation to be performed by disengaging the click mechanism of the diopter dial 8 following the focusing operation. It is something that will be. Of course, the groove formed on the axial surface of the diopter dial 8 allows a stepwise moving operation, and allows correct and reliable adjustment.

Therefore, in an observation mode in which observation is temporarily interrupted, and then similar observation is restarted again,
It also prevents the dial from turning slightly during your mobile phone. Similarly, when trying to adjust the interpupillary distance, if the diopter dial 8 is temporarily clicked so as not to rotate as described above, the eyepiece lens systems 6L and 6L can be adjusted.
Even if the R and the objective lens systems 7L and 7R are extended, the set diopter position is secured, so that it is not necessary to perform the adjustment again. As a result, the diopter dial 8 has the same structural effects as those of the above-described first embodiment and also has a functionally.
The diopter position is not changed even if it hits the surrounding objects, etc., so that the same observer does not need to adjust diopter every time it is observed, and it is clear for a long time. Observation is possible with a simple visual field.

(Modification 2) Further, a barrier for the eyepiece lens system and the objective lens system may be provided to block the optical path as desired, so that accumulation of dust and dust in each lens system may be prevented. The focus adjustment mechanism 20 and the diopter adjustment mechanism 30
Also, as shown in the example, the operations are not separately performed by the manual operation using the respective operation means, but when the focal length is significantly changed, only a certain moving range is set to the initially set visual range. An arrangement may be made so as to be linked based on the degree position, so that the approximate diopter adjustment dedicated to the observer is performed together with focusing. At this time, the positional relationship between the diopter adjustment mechanism and the focus adjustment mechanism may be appropriately changed as needed.

(Other Modifications) Each of the above modifications is a mechanical variation, and the mechanisms do not have to be exactly the same as those in the illustrated example. You may. In addition, while the diopter dial has been exemplified to be maintained at the set diopter position, the gist of the present invention is similarly applicable to various binoculars in a narrow sense, and other than the compact binoculars exemplified here. However, the present invention can be similarly applied to various other optical devices such as binoculars having a diopter dial. In addition, various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Although the present invention has been described based on a plurality of embodiments, the following description is included in the present specification. For example, (1) In a pair of binoculars having a diopter adjustment function, a pair of left and right optical systems and these optical systems are simultaneously extended or retracted in the optical axis direction (Z direction), and the left and right directions ( Moving means (cam plate, slide plate) movable in the horizontal direction (X direction) and focus adjusting means (focusing means) for moving a pair of front and rear optical systems constituting the upper optical system in opposite optical axis directions. Ring), and diopter adjusting means (diopter dial, cam pin) for finely moving only one of the left and right optical systems in the optical axis direction to generate a diopter difference between the left and right optical systems. We propose binoculars with diopter adjustment function. (2) The cam of the diopter adjusting means is formed of, for example, an eccentric cam whose axis is deviated.

(3) A pair of optical systems, first moving means (cam plate) for simultaneously extending or retracting these optical systems in the optical axis direction, and moving these optical systems in opposite optical axis directions. Focus adjusting means (focus ring, cam pin) for changing the focal length by moving the optical axis in the left-right direction in conjunction with the pair of lens barrels, and in conjunction with the movement of the first moving means. A binocular with a diopter adjustment function including a second moving unit (slide plate) that moves in the direction is proposed.

(4) A pair of optical systems, a first moving means (cam plate) for simultaneously extending or retracting these optical systems in the optical axis direction, and a pair of the optical systems in the optical axis directions opposite to each other. A focus adjusting means (focus ring, cam pin) for moving, and a movable means for moving in the left-right direction in conjunction with the pair of lens barrels, and for moving in the optical axis direction in conjunction with the movement of the first moving means. A second moving means (slide plate), and simultaneously with the movement of the first moving means,
A binocular with a diopter adjustment function is proposed in which the pair of second moving units can be moved in opposite optical axis directions by the focus adjusting unit that moves the moving unit in the optical axis direction.

Actually, the binoculars having the diopter adjusting function include a pair of eyepiece lens system and objective lens system, a slide plate for extending or retracting these lens systems simultaneously in the optical axis direction, and A focus ring, a focus shaft for moving each lens system in the opposite optical axis direction,
An eyepiece pin and an objective pin, a cam mechanism for engaging the slide plate to cause a diopter difference in the lens system,
, And the cam mechanism is constituted by, for example, an eccentric cam having an elliptical shape. Further, in addition to the pair of optical systems and the slide plate, the focus ring, the focus shaft, the eyepiece pin, the objective pin, and the pair of lens barrels can move in the left-right direction (horizontal direction). A slide plate and an exterior cover for adjusting the interpupillary distance by moving the pair of lens barrels also in the optical axis direction in conjunction with the movement of the moving means, and a diopter for the optical system through the slide plate and the cam plate. It is possible to provide binoculars with a diopter adjustment function constituted by a cam mechanism that causes a difference.

(5) The cam mechanism includes the moving means (slide plate) having a sliding contact pin projecting in a vertical direction;
Binoculars comprising an eccentric cam that engages with the sliding means so as to pivotally support the moving means. (6) A pair of optical systems, moving means (slide plate) for simultaneously extending or retracting these optical systems in the optical axis direction, and focus adjustment for moving the pair of optical systems in opposite optical axis directions. Means (focus ring, focus shaft,
An eyepiece pin, an objective pin) and an eye width adjusting means (a slide plate, which can move in the left-right direction (horizontal direction) in conjunction with the pair of lens barrels and move in the optical axis direction in conjunction with the movement of the moving means). And an outer cover), wherein the combination of the interpupillary distance adjusting means, the cam plate having a vertically extending sliding contact pin and a moving means, includes a transmitting means having a cam member of a predetermined shape; It is incorporated in a cam mechanism that can be operated by a converting means (a diopter dial shaft, an eccentric cam), and by contact with the sliding contact pin accompanying the rotation of the cam member, the left and right joints joined to the interpupillary adjusting means. Binoculars with a diopter adjustment function configured to cause a slight difference in the movement distance in the optical axis direction in the lens system can be provided. (7) The diopter adjustment mechanism transmits a diopter dial for performing diopter adjustment by a rotation operation and a rotation operation force of the diopter dial, and controls a relative position of the pair of optical systems in the optical axis direction. Binoculars further provided with a drive transmission member and a conversion member (eccentric cam, sliding contact pin) for changing the proper position.

The present specification also includes and provides the following inventions. For example, (1) In the binoculars capable of storing a first lens barrel containing an eyepiece lens system and a second lens barrel containing an objective lens system in an outer cover, the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel Is
When the binoculars are not used, the binoculars are retracted and stored in the exterior cover, and when the binoculars are used, the binoculars have a moving mechanism that can be extended from the interior of the exterior cover. A diopter adjustment dial for performing a diopter adjustment operation;
Binoculars with a diopter adjustment function, characterized in that the lens barrel can be slightly moved in the optical axis direction, can be provided.

(2) A focus adjustment mechanism capable of simultaneously moving the objective lens system and the eyepiece system of the first lens barrel and the second eyepiece of the left and right pair along the optical axis directions opposite to each other. Binoculars having a diopter adjustment mechanism for independently moving one of the eyepiece systems of the first lens barrel or the second lens barrel, wherein the diopter adjustment dial is provided when both the lens barrels are in the retracted position. Can be provided so that the diopter adjustment dial can be rotated when the lens barrel is in the extended position. (3) Each of the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel includes a front lens barrel of an objective lens system having a common optical axis and a rear lens barrel of an eyepiece lens system, and the focus adjustment is performed. The binoculars described in (2), wherein the front lens barrel and the rear lens barrel are configured to extend or retract in opposite directions by a mechanism.

(4) A pair of left and right exterior covers respectively covering a first lens barrel containing an eyepiece lens system and a second lens barrel containing an objective lens system. When the binoculars are not used, the two barrels are retracted and stored inside the outer cover, while when the binoculars are used, a barrel moving mechanism that can be extended out of the outer cover is provided. The first lens barrel has a diopter adjustment dial for performing a diopter adjustment operation, wherein the first lens barrel is configured to operate in conjunction with opening and closing the left and right exterior covers in the horizontal direction. Wherein the diopter dial is clicked on the first lens barrel, and binoculars with a diopter adjustment function can be provided.

(5) The diopter adjustment dial is disposed at a position where the observer near the lower portion or the side of the lens barrel in which the eyepiece lens system is incorporated can be turned. The binoculars according to (3), which is formed so as to prevent rotation of the diopter dial, can be provided. (6) The diopter adjustment mechanism has a predetermined cam structure. The cam structure includes a rotatable diopter adjustment dial integrally connected to an eccentric elliptical cam; A moving member (cam plate) having a portion (projecting pin) with which the cam periodically slides with the rotation of the diopter adjustment dial
The binoculars according to (5), comprising:

(7) The eccentric cam of the cam mechanism rotates in accordance with the retraction or extension operation, and causes a difference in the focal lengths of the right and left eyepiece systems in the optical axis direction of the moving mechanism. The binoculars according to (6), wherein the moving steps are different, can be provided. (8) The binoculars according to (6), wherein the restriction of displacement (for example, clicking) of the diopter adjustment dial is released during the movement from the lens retracted position to the lens extended position. Can be provided.

(9) The diopter adjustment dial is movable along an optical axis along an elongated hole formed in the exterior cover with rotation. The described binoculars can be provided. (10) The diopter adjustment dial is restricted (for example, clicked) from being displaced at the lens retracted position, and is configured to be operable at the lens extended position. Binoculars can be provided.

[0074]

As described above, according to the present invention, the diopter can be easily adjusted when the observer adjusts the focus, and, for example, a change in the diopter position once set can be prevented. Therefore, it is possible to provide binoculars with a diopter adjustment function that enables the setting to be maintained while ensuring the adjustment.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a usable state of binoculars according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an external appearance of a stored state when the binoculars are not used.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing a main part of a focus adjustment mechanism of the binoculars.

FIG. 4 is an assembled perspective view showing a relationship between main parts of an interpupillary distance adjusting mechanism and a diopter adjusting mechanism of the binoculars.

5 (a) to 5 (c) show main parts of an interpupillary distance adjusting mechanism and a diopter adjusting mechanism. FIG. 5 (a) is a plan view of these mechanisms including a cam plate and a slide plate. FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of these mechanisms including the cam plate and the slide plate, and FIG.
2 is another cross-sectional view of a mechanism including the same.

6 (a) to 6 (c) show the movement of the interpupillary distance adjusting mechanism and the diopter adjusting mechanism. FIG. 6 (a) is a plan view showing the movement of the cam plate and the slide plate. FIG. 6B is a sectional view of the mechanism at this time, and FIG. 6C is another sectional view of the mechanism at this time.

7A to 7C show a state in which the interpupillary distance adjusting mechanism is slid to the maximum interpupillary distance. FIG. 7A is a plan view of the interpupillary distance adjusting mechanism and the diopter adjusting mechanism at this time. FIG. 7 (b)
Is a sectional view of the mechanism at this time, and FIG. 7C is another sectional view of the mechanism at this time.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a binocular according to a second embodiment of the present invention in an unusable state.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the binoculars in a usable state.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view schematically showing a main part of a focus adjusting mechanism of the binoculars.

11 (a) to 11 (c) show a structure related to a diopter dial, FIG. 11 (a) is a perspective view showing the diopter dial, a dial shaft and a gear, and FIG. 11 (b) is ,
FIG. 11 is a sectional view showing the dial shaft in contact with the elongated hole.
(C) is sectional drawing which expands and shows the surface shape of a dial shaft.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Main body (binocular housing), 2 ... Housing (casing), 3L, 3R ... Exterior cover (exterior member), 3La, 3Ra ... Exterior cover attachment part, 4 ... Focus adjustment ring (focus ring), 5L, 5R ... Optical system, 6L, 6R: eyepiece system, 7L, 7R: Objective lens system, 8: Diopter dial (diopter adjustment knob), 8a: Dial shaft, 9L, 9R: Open end (front), 13L, 13R, 14L, 14R: small elongated hole, 15: focus shaft (cam shaft), 17: eyepiece cam (spiral groove), 18: objective cam (spiral groove), 20: focus adjustment mechanism, 21: first cam plate ( 22) 2nd cam plate (front), 23L, 23R ... slide plate (rear), 24L, 24R ... slide plate (front), 25 ... long hole (bottom surface), 26L, 26R ... slide hole, 27 ... Eyepiece pin, 2 Reference numeral 8: Objective pin, 29: Support rod, 30: Diopter adjustment mechanism, 31: Pinion gear (end of drive transmitting member), 32: Eccentric cam, 33: Cam shaft, 34: Sliding contact pin, 35: Slot (side surface) ), 36: cam plate, 37: pin hole, 38: rack, 45: eyepiece (secondary), 47: eyepiece frame, 50: objective lens, 51: objective lens frame.

Claims (3)

[Claims] 1. A pair of binoculars having a diopter adjusting function, comprising: a pair of optical systems; moving means for simultaneously extending or retracting these optical systems in an optical axis direction; Binoculars with a diopter adjustment function, comprising: focus adjustment means for moving in a direction; and diopter adjustment means for engaging the movement means and causing a diopter difference in the optical system. 2. The binoculars according to claim 1, wherein said diopter adjusting means is constituted by an eccentric cam. 3. A pair of optical systems, moving means for simultaneously extending or retracting these optical systems in the optical axis direction, and focus adjusting means for moving the pair of optical systems in opposite optical axis directions. An interpupillary distance adjusting means which is movable in the left-right direction in conjunction with the pair of lens barrels, and which also moves the pair of lens barrels in the optical axis direction in conjunction with the movement of the moving means; Binoculars with a diopter adjustment function, comprising: a cam mechanism that penetrates the moving means and causes a diopter difference in the optical system.