JP2007065525A - Lens unit and imaging device provided with the same - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a lens unit which has high performance and is small-sized in order to improve portability or the like and does not allow zoom sounds to be recorded when photographing a moving picture, and to provide an imaging device provided with the lens unit. <P>SOLUTION: A DSC29 is capable of switching between moving picture photographing and still picture photographing by an imaging device SR. A variable magnification optical system OS of the DSC29 has a plurality of lens groups (GR1 to GR5), and four lens groups (GR1 to GR4) out of them are movable. A movement locus for variable magnification of at least one of the movable lens groups in zooming for moving picture photographing is different from that in zooming for still picture photographing. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a lens unit having a variable magnification optical system, an imaging device including the lens unit, and the like.

  In recent years, various digital still cameras (DSC) having a moving image shooting function and a still image shooting function have been developed (for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3). In the DSC having such both photographing functions, demands for the following three points are increasing.

(1) High performance (for example, correcting various aberrations effectively, having high magnification, high zoom ratio, etc.)
(2) It must be small to improve portability, etc. (3) Zoom sound (moving sound of the lens group) should not be recorded during video recording. Therefore, in order to realize these three points, DSC Various lens units to be mounted have been proposed.
JP 2001-21373 A JP 2002-131612 A JP 2004-207781 A

  However, it is difficult to satisfy the above three points simultaneously. For example, the DSC lens unit in Patent Document 1 does not perform zooming (magnification) when shooting a moving image. With such a configuration, the DSC does not record the zoom sound during moving image shooting. However, this lens unit (and thus DSC) sacrifices the function of zooming, and it is difficult to say that it has high performance.

  In the DSC lens unit in Patent Document 2, the variable range of the focal length of the optical system is different between still image shooting and moving image shooting. Specifically, the variable range of the focal length in still image shooting is more limited than the variable range of the focal length in moving image shooting (in particular, limited on the wide-angle end side). ). With such a configuration, it is possible to eliminate the influence of various aberrations on the wide-angle end side during still image shooting. However, this lens unit (and hence DSC) sacrifices the variable power, and is not highly efficient.

  In addition, in the case of moving image shooting and still image shooting, the DSC lens unit disclosed in Patent Document 3 temporarily zooms in with another lens group after first extending the first lens group (lens group on the most object side). ing. With such a configuration, the first lens group, which is the main cause of the zoom sound, does not move during moving image shooting. Therefore, the zoom sound can be reduced.

  However, this lens unit is configured to extend the first lens group even in still image shooting. For this reason, the first lens group must be configured to receive a light beam having a relatively large angle of view in a still image. That is, the lens diameter (front lens diameter, etc.) of the first lens group must be relatively large. Then, in the DSC, zoom sound is not recorded during moving image shooting, but this lens unit (and thus the DSC) is hardly small and high performance.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a lens unit suitable for simultaneously satisfying the above three requirements and an image pickup apparatus equipped with the lens unit.

  The lens unit of the present invention includes a variable magnification optical system having a plurality of lens groups, and an image sensor that receives light that has passed through the variable magnification optical system. The movement locus of zooming by at least one lens group in the plurality of lens groups is different between the case of zooming of the first type and the case of zooming of the second type. In the lens unit of the present invention, the plurality of lens groups includes at least a first lens group having a positive power, a second lens group having a negative power, and a positive lens from the object side to the image side. A third lens group having power and a fourth lens group having positive power are included.

  For example, it is assumed that the lens unit of the present invention is mounted on an image pickup apparatus, and the image pickup apparatus has both moving image shooting and still image shooting functions. Then, with the lens unit of the present invention, zooming based on various movements of each lens group according to each shooting {moving image shooting (first format) or still image shooting (second format)} can be realized.

  In particular, in the lens unit of the present invention, it is desirable that the first lens group shows different movement loci for the first type of zooming and for the second type of zooming. For example, if the first lens group does not move in the case of the first type zooming, but moves in the second type zooming, the first lens group shows a different movement locus. desirable.

  As described above, if the first lens unit is not fixed at a predetermined position in the first type of zooming, the imaging device equipped with the lens unit of the present invention is caused by the zooming movement of the first lens. No sound (variable sound) can be produced. In particular, conventionally, since the moving distance of the first lens group tends to be longer than that of the other lens groups, the noise problem of variable magnification can be effectively solved if such a sound does not occur.

  In addition, the lens unit of the present invention can move the first lens group in accordance with the zoom ratio or the like in the case of zooming in the second format. For example, when the first lens group is moved in order to capture a light beam in the wide-angle end state by zooming in the second type, the lens unit of the present invention is as close to the zooming of the first type (that is, as much as a predetermined position). ), The first lens group can be prevented from being extended toward the object side. In such a case, since the position of the light beam passing through the first lens group can be lowered, the size of the first lens group (and thus the lens unit) becomes relatively small.

  In the lens unit of the present invention, the first lens group is movable when zooming in the second format. Therefore, even if the first lens unit having the same size as the lens unit (conventional device) that performs zooming with the first lens unit fixed when zooming in the second format is provided, the lens unit of the present invention Can realize high-magnification shooting as compared to conventional devices.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a lens unit in which the size of the variable magnification optical system is reduced while exhibiting high performance. In addition, in the lens unit of the present invention, since the first lens group is stationary, the noise problem due to zooming can be solved.

Moreover, it is desirable that the lens unit of the present invention satisfies the following conditional expression (1).
6.0 <f1 / fw_ty2 <20.0 ... Conditional expression (1)
However,
f1: focal length of the first lens unit fw_ty2: focal length of the variable magnification optical system at the wide angle end state in the second type of variable magnification.

  Conditional expression (1) defines a range for achieving harmony between miniaturization of the variable magnification optical system and higher performance of aberration correction based on the power of the first lens group. Within the range of 1), the present invention provides a lens unit that is miniaturized while suppressing the occurrence of aberration (aberration correction).

Moreover, it is desirable that the lens unit of the present invention satisfies the following conditional expression (2).
0.05 <f3 / f4 <1.00 Conditional expression (2)
However,
f3: focal length of the third lens group f4: focal length of the fourth lens group

  Conditional expression (2) defines a range for harmonizing the miniaturization of the variable magnification optical system and the high performance of aberration correction based on the power ratio of the third lens group and the fourth lens group. Within the range of the conditional expression (2), the present invention is a lens unit that is downsized while suppressing the occurrence of aberrations.

  In the lens unit of the present invention, the second lens group includes at least one negative lens and at least one positive lens from the viewpoint of correcting chromatic aberration and the like. Further, it is desirable that the negative lens is formed with an aspherical surface. This is because such a configuration can effectively correct aberration correction, particularly distortion aberration.

Moreover, it is desirable that the lens unit of the present invention satisfies the following conditional expression (3).
d (GR1-SR) w_ty2 <d (GR1-SR) _ty1 <d (GR1-SR) t_ty2 Conditional expression (3)
However,
d (GR1-SR) w_ty2: distance between the first lens group and the image pickup element in the wide-angle end state in the second type variable magnification d (GR1-SR) _ty1: the first lens group in the first type variable magnification Distance d (GR1-SR) t_ty2 with the image pickup element: Distance between the first lens group and the image pickup element in the telephoto end state in the second type of zooming.

  With such a configuration, the start position of the first lens group in the first type of zooming is defined within the range (limited range) of the first lens group that can be moved to the maximum in the zooming of the second type. Will be. This eliminates the need for a special mechanism for positioning the first lens group beyond the limited range.

Moreover, it is desirable that the lens unit of the present invention satisfies the following conditional expression (4).
d (GR1-GR2) w_ty1 <d (GR1-GR2) w_ty2 Conditional expression (4)
However,
d (GR1-GR2) w_ty1: Distance between the first lens group and the second lens group at the wide-angle end state in the first type of zooming d (GR1-GR2) w_ty2: Wide-angle end in the second type of zooming This is the distance between the first lens group and the second lens group in the state.

  For example, if the distance between the first lens group and the second lens group is narrow, it may be easy to capture light having a relatively large angle of view. Then, in the lens unit of the present invention, the first type of zooming can easily capture a light beam having a larger angle of view than the second type of zooming. Then, the degree of freedom in designing a zoom optical system that can cope with zooming in the first format is increased.

  Note that the image pickup apparatus of the present invention including the lens unit as described above is a small, high-performance and quiet image pickup apparatus.

  Further, the performance required for the imaging apparatus may differ depending on the first type of magnification and the second type of magnification. For example, an imaging device capable of both moving image shooting and still image shooting usually requires high performance (for example, high image quality, high resolution) for still image shooting, but moving image shooting has a higher performance than still image shooting. Not required. Therefore, in the lens unit of the present invention mounted on such an imaging apparatus having both imaging functions, the imaging area used by the imaging element at the magnification in the first format is the imaging element at the magnification in the second format. It may be smaller than the imaging area used in.

  Note that such an imaging apparatus is provided with a switching unit that switches between the first-type magnification and the second-type magnification, and the first-type magnification is a magnification in moving image shooting. The second type of zooming is zooming in still image shooting.

  With the lens unit of the present invention, the lens group can move differently between the first type of zooming and the second type of zooming. Therefore, for example, the lens unit of the present invention can make the first lens group immovable by the first type of zooming, but can be made movable by the second type of zooming.

  Then, in an imaging apparatus or the like equipped with the lens unit of the present invention, the sound caused by the movement of the first lens group is reduced when the first type of zooming is performed. On the other hand, since the first lens group moves in the second type of zooming, high performance (higher magnification, etc.) can be realized with the movement of the first lens group. Therefore, according to the present invention, a lens unit that achieves quietness, high performance, and the like is realized.

[Embodiment 1]
An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

<< 1. About Digital Still Camera Configuration >>
FIG. 9 is a schematic configuration diagram of a digital camera (DSC) 29 which is an example of the imaging apparatus of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 9, the DSC 29 includes an optical system unit 1, an image processing unit 12, a timing control circuit 13, an operation unit 14, a display unit 15, an external interface unit 16, a battery 17, a control unit 21, a ROM 22, and a RAM 23. Is included.

<<< Optical System Unit >>>
The optical system unit 1 includes a variable magnification optical system OS having a plurality of lens groups (GR1 to GR5), an image sensor SR, a lens group moving unit MU, and a drive pulse counting unit PU.

  The variable magnification optical system OS is housed in a lens barrel (not shown in FIG. 9) and takes in light rays from a subject (photographing target). The variable magnification optical system OS and the lens barrel will be described in detail later.

  The image sensor SR receives a light beam (light image) taken in by the variable magnification optical system OS and converts it into an electrical signal (electronic data). For example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) area sensor, a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor, and the like can be cited. Note that the image sensor SR has a large number of three types of pixels that selectively receive red (R) light, green (G) light, and blue (B) light.

  The DSC 29 of the present invention can perform moving image shooting (moving image shooting mode) or still image shooting (still image shooting mode) under the control of the control unit 21 described later. Therefore, in the imaging device SR of the DSC 29 of the present invention, the imaging area (imaging size) of the imaging device SR used for moving image shooting is smaller than the imaging area of the imaging device SR used for still image shooting. This is because moving images do not require the same high performance (for example, high pixels and high resolution) as still image shooting.

  In addition, when trying to acquire a high-performance moving image image, high-speed processing or the like must be performed in each unit such as the control unit 21. However, if the imaging area of the imaging element SR used for moving image shooting is small as described above, the burden of high-speed processing and the like can be reduced. As a result, a high-performance and expensive control unit required for high-speed processing or the like is not necessary, and as a result, cost reduction of the imaging device can be realized.

  The lens group moving unit (drive source) MU moves the lens group GR in the variable magnification optical system OS. For example, there are stepping motors (G1M to G4M; drive sources) provided so as to correspond to lens groups to be moved (for example, GR1 to GR4).

  The drive pulse counting unit PU measures the moving distance of the moving lens groups (for example, GR1 to GR4) by counting the driving pulses of the stepping motors (G1M to G4M), and obtains the position of each lens group. .

<< About the image processing section >>
The image processing unit 12 generates image data from electronic data of the image sensor SR. Specifically, the image processing unit 12 includes a signal processing circuit 12a, an A / D converter 12b, a black level correction circuit 12c, a white balance adjustment circuit (WB adjustment circuit) 12d, a γ correction circuit 12e, and an image memory 12f. Contains.

  The signal processing circuit 12a processes an analog signal output from each pixel of the image sensor SR, and the A / D converter 12b converts the processed analog signal from the signal processing circuit 12a into a digital signal.

  The black level correction circuit 12c corrects the level of the entire digital signal, and the WB adjustment circuit 12d adjusts the levels of the R, G, and B color signals output by the three types of pixels of the image sensor SR. This is to adjust the white balance of the image.

  The γ correction circuit 12e performs non-linear processing on the digital signal so as to be suitable for display. The image memory 12f includes a signal processing circuit 12a, an A / D converter 12b, a black level correction circuit 12c, a WB adjustment circuit 12d, and γ. Image data generated by passing through the correction circuit 12e is temporarily stored.

<<<< Timing Control Circuit >>>>
The timing control circuit 13 generates drive control signals for the image sensor SR, the signal processing circuit 12a, and the A / D converter 12b based on the reference clock transmitted from the control unit 21.

<< About the control panel >>
The operation unit 14 is a button, a switch, or the like for instructing the control unit 21 of various operation contents by the user. In the DSC 29 of the present invention, at least a start / stop button 14a for starting / stopping the entire DSC 29, a moving image start / stop button 14b for starting / stopping moving image shooting, and a still image shooting are performed. Still image release button 14c, mode switching button (switching portion) 14d for switching a shooting mode (moving image shooting mode / still image shooting mode), and zoom operation key 14e for operating zooming in moving image shooting or still image shooting are included. It has become.

<< About the display section >>
The display unit 15 includes a VRAM 15a and an LCD 15b. The VRAM 15a stores image data to be displayed on the LCD 15b, and the LCD 15b displays various data such as image data stored in the VRAM 15a.

<< About the external interface section >>
The external interface unit 16 includes a memory card 16a and a card interface (card I / F) 16b for performing input / output by the memory card 16a.

<<< Battery and control unit >>>
The battery 17 supplies electric power to the various members described above. The control unit 21 is a central part that performs operation control and the like of the entire DSC 29, and organically controls the drive of each member of the DSC 29 to control the operation in an integrated manner.

  For example, in the DSC 29 of the present invention, the control unit 21 performs control that enables both moving image shooting (first format shooting) or still image shooting (second format shooting), and stepping motors (G1M to G4M). Control of the image pickup area, control of setting of the image pickup area of the image pickup element SR, and the like are performed.

<< About ROM and RAM >>
A ROM (Read Only Memory) 22 or a RAM (Random Access Memory) 23 stores a control program required for operation control of each member by the control unit 21, a necessary data table, and the like.

<< 2. About variable magnification optical system and lens barrel >>
<<<< 2-1. About the configuration of the variable magnification optical system and the lens barrel >>>>
Here, the details of the variable magnification optical system OS and the lens barrel (moving mechanism) LB in the optical system unit 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. The variable magnification optical system OS is accommodated in the lens barrel LB, and FIGS. 10 to 12 show the internal structure of the lens barrel LB. As shown in these drawings, the lens barrel LB includes a fixed barrel FB and a movable barrel MB. The lens barrel LB including a stepping motor, each lens group holder, and the like which will be described later may be collectively referred to as a lens barrel (moving mechanism) LB.

  The fixed cylinder FB is attached to the body (not shown) of the DSC 29 and becomes a main part of the lens barrel LB. As shown in FIG. 11, a guide groove (moving cylinder guide groove) j1 is provided on the inner periphery of the fixed cylinder FB in the same direction as the cylinder axis direction.

  The moving cylinder MB is housed in the fixed cylinder FB, and is provided so as to project a claw (moving cylinder claw) j2 that fits in the moving cylinder guide groove j1 from the cylinder surface (outer periphery) (see FIG. 11). Then, the movable cylinder MB can be moved back and forth along the cylinder axis direction via the movable cylinder claw j2 fitted (engaged) with the movable cylinder guide groove j1 of the fixed cylinder FB. As shown in FIG. 10, a guide groove (second lens group holder guide groove) j3 for guiding the movement of a second lens group holder HR2, which will be described later, is provided on the inner periphery of the movable cylinder MB. It is provided along the axial direction.

  The variable magnification optical system OS is accommodated in the lens barrel LB, and includes five lens groups (GR1 to GR5) so as to be arranged from the object side to the image side (image pickup element side). Specifically, it includes a first lens group GR1, a second lens group GR2, a third lens group GR3, a fourth lens group GR4, and a fifth lens group GR5 in order from the object side to the image side. The optical axis (optical axis direction) AX in the variable magnification optical system OS is in the same direction as the cylindrical axis direction of the fixed cylinder FB and the movable cylinder MB.

  Further, an infrared cut filter (not shown) is provided on the image side of the fifth lens group GR5, and an image pickup element further on the image side of the infrared cut filter {IR cut filter; may be referred to as PT for convenience}. (Not shown in FIGS. 10 to 12) is provided. A configuration including the lens group (GR1 to GR5) and the IR cut filter PT may be referred to as a variable magnification optical system OS. In this case, the fifth lens group GR5 and the IR cut filter PT are collectively referred to as a fifth lens group GR5. A configuration including the lens group (GR1 to GR5), the IR cut filter PT, and the image sensor SR is referred to as a lens unit LU.

<<<< 2-2. About storage state / movement mechanism of each lens group GR1 to GR5 >>>>
Here, the storage state / movement mechanism of each of the lens groups GR1 to GR5 will be described with reference to FIGS. For convenience, FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the lens barrel LB mainly showing the housed state of the second lens group GR2 and the fifth lens group GR5, and FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the first lens group GR1 and the third lens group GR3. FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a lens barrel LB that mainly shows the housed state of the fifth lens group GR5. FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the lens barrel LB mainly showing the housed state of the fourth lens group GR4 and the fifth lens group GR5.

<Storage state of fifth lens group>
As shown in FIGS. 10 to 12, the fifth lens group GR5 is held by a fifth lens group holder HR5 provided at the image side end of the fixed cylinder FB. However, the fifth lens group holder HR5 is fixedly disposed. Therefore, the fifth lens group GR5 does not move during zooming (magnification) of the DSC 29.

  The fifth lens group holder HR5 includes four stepping motors {first to fourth lens group motors (G1M to G4M)} and two guide shafts (third lens group guide shaft G3G and fourth lens). A group guide shaft G4G) is provided. The rotation shafts (G1MS to G4MS) and guide shafts (G3G and G4G) of these stepping motors (G1M to G4M) extend toward the object side (note that the axial directions of both shafts are It is the same direction as the optical axis direction AX).

<Contained state and moving mechanism of second lens group>
As shown in FIG. 10, the second lens group GR2 is held by a second lens group holder HR2. The second lens group holder HR2 is attached to the second lens group holder guide groove j3 and the second lens group motor G2M.

  Specifically, a claw (second lens group holder claw j4) that fits into the second lens group holder guide groove j3 is provided at one end of the second lens group holder HR2, and the second lens group motor G2M is provided at the other end. A rack (second lens group holder rack) HR2R that engages with the rotation axis G2MS is provided. In addition, the second lens group holder rack HR2R is provided with a tooth portion (not shown) that meshes with a lead screw (not shown) provided on the rotation shaft G2MS.

  Therefore, the lead screw of the rotation shaft G2MS engages (for example, meshes) with the tooth portion of the second lens group holder rack HR2R. Then, the driving force of the second lens group motor G2M is transmitted to the second lens group holder rack HR2R and eventually to the second lens group holder HR2. As a result, the second lens group holder HR2 (that is, the second lens group GR2) can be moved back and forth along the second lens group holder guide groove j3 and the rotation axis G2MS.

<Storing state and moving mechanism of first lens group>
The first lens group (lens group closest to the object side) GR1 is held by a first lens group holder HR1, as shown in FIG. The first lens group holder HR1 is attached to the end of the movable cylinder MB on the object side. As described above, the movable cylinder MB can be advanced and retracted along the cylinder axis direction via the movable cylinder claw j2 fitted in the movable cylinder guide groove j1 of the fixed cylinder FB. In addition, a rack (movable cylinder rack) MBR that engages with the rotation shaft G1MS of the first lens group motor G1M is provided on the inner periphery of the movable cylinder MB. The movable cylinder rack MBR is provided with a tooth portion (not shown) that meshes with a lead screw (not shown) provided on the rotation shaft G1MS.

  Therefore, the lead screw of the rotating shaft G1MS is engaged with the tooth portion of the movable barrel rack MBR. Then, the driving force of the first lens group motor G1M is transmitted to the movable barrel rack MBR, and eventually to the movable barrel MB and the first lens group holder HR1. As a result, the first lens group holder HR1 (that is, the first lens group GR1) can be moved back and forth along the movable cylinder guide groove j1 and the rotation axis G1MS.

<Storing state and moving mechanism of third lens group>
As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the third lens group GR3 is held by a third lens group holder HR3. The third lens group holder HR3 is attached to a third lens group guide shaft G3G (see FIG. 10) and a third lens group motor G3M (see FIG. 11).

  Specifically, an opening HR3H (third lens group opening HR3H; see FIG. 10) for inserting the third lens group guide shaft G3G is provided at one end of the third lens group holder HR3, and a third end is provided at the other end. A rack HR3R (third lens group holder rack HR3R; see FIG. 11) that engages with the rotation shaft G3MS of the lens group motor G3M is provided. In addition, the third lens group holder rack HR3R is provided with a tooth portion (not shown) that meshes with a lead screw (not shown) provided on the rotation shaft G3MS.

  Therefore, the lead screw of the rotation shaft G3MS is engaged with the tooth portion of the third lens group holder rack HR3R. Then, the driving force of the third lens group motor G3M is transmitted to the third lens group holder rack HR3R and eventually to the third lens group holder HR3. As a result, the third lens group holder HR3 (that is, the third lens group GR3) can move back and forth along the rotation axis G3MS and the third lens group guide axis G3G.

<Housing state and moving mechanism of fourth lens group>
As shown in FIG. 12, the fourth lens group GR4 is held by a fourth lens group holder HR4. The fourth lens group holder HR4 is attached to the fourth lens group guide shaft G4G and the fourth lens group motor G4M.

  Specifically, an opening HR4H (fourth lens group opening HR4H) for inserting the fourth lens group guide shaft G4G is provided at one end of the fourth lens group holder HR4, and a motor for the fourth lens group is provided at the other end. A rack HR4R (fourth lens group holder rack HR4R) that engages with the rotation axis G4MS of G4M is provided. In addition, the fourth lens group holder rack HR4R is provided with a tooth portion (not shown) that meshes with a lead screw (not shown) provided on the rotation shaft G4MS.

  Therefore, when the lead screw of the rotating shaft G4MS is engaged with the tooth portion of the fourth lens group holder rack HR4R, the driving force of the fourth lens group motor G4M is changed to the fourth lens group holder rack HR4R and eventually the fourth lens group holder rack HR4R. This is transmitted to the lens group holder HR4. As a result, the fourth lens group holder HR4 (that is, the fourth lens group GR4) can move back and forth along the rotation axis G4MS and the fourth lens group guide axis G4G.

<<<< 2-3. Details of the lens unit >>
Here, details of the lens unit LU including the variable magnification optical system OS and the image sensor SR will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8 (in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the image sensor SR is omitted for convenience). Note that, as described above, the DSC 29 has both moving image shooting and still image shooting functions. Therefore, FIG. 1 shows a lens unit LU for moving image shooting, and FIG. 2 shows a lens unit LU for still image shooting. Aberration diagrams of the lens unit LU in moving image shooting are shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, and aberration diagrams of the lens unit LU in still image shooting are shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 (details will be described later).

  In FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, “GRi” indicates a lens group, and “Li” indicates a lens. Further, “si” indicates a lens surface. The numbers (i) given to “GRi”, “Li”, and “si” indicate the order from the object side to the image side. An aspheric surface is marked with “*” (asterisk).

  “Di” indicates the distance between the shaft upper surfaces. However, numbers are given only to the shaft upper surface distance (inter-group distance) in which the distance variation occurs with zooming. An arrow “MMi” schematically represents the movement locus of each lens group from the telephoto end state (W) to the intermediate focus state (M), and further from the intermediate focus state (M) to the telephoto end state (T). It is written. Note that i of MMi indicates the order from the object side to the image side. Therefore, it corresponds to the order of each lens group. The lens unit LU shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is referred to as Example 1.

<< 2-3-1. Regarding the configuration of the lens unit of Example 1 >>
The lens unit LU includes a first lens group GR1, a second lens group GR2, a third lens group GR3, a fourth lens group GR4, a fifth lens group GR5, and an imaging element SR in order from the object to be imaged.

<<< About the first lens group >>>
The first lens group GR1 includes a first lens L1, a second lens L2, and a third lens L3 in order from the object side. The first lens group GR1 as a whole has a “positive” optical power (refractive power). The power is defined as the reciprocal of the focal length.

Each lens has the following characteristics.
First lens L1: Negative meniscus lens convex on the object side Second lens L2: Positive lens convex on both sides Third lens L3: Positive meniscus lens convex on the object side The first lens L1 and the second lens L2 , S2 to form a cemented lens. Moreover, as a joining method, joining by an adhesive agent etc. is mentioned (In addition, joining of an adhesive agent etc. is mentioned similarly as a joining method of the below-mentioned joining lens).

<<< About the second lens group >>>
The second lens group GR2 includes a fourth lens L4, a fifth lens L5, and a sixth lens L6 in order from the object side. The second lens group GR2 as a whole has “negative” optical power.

Each lens has the following characteristics.
Fourth lens L4: negative meniscus lens convex on the object side (s6 is aspheric)
-5th lens L5: Negative lens concave on both sides-6th lens L6: Positive meniscus lens convex on the object side Note that the 5th lens L5 and the 6th lens L6 constitute a cemented lens by being joined at s9. ing. An aspherical surface refers to an aspherical refractive optical surface, a surface having a refractive action equivalent to an aspherical surface, and the like.

<<< About the third lens group >>>
The third lens group GR3 includes an optical aperture stop ST, a seventh lens L7, an eighth lens L8, a ninth lens L9, a tenth lens L10, and an eleventh lens L11 in order from the object side. The third lens group GR3 as a whole has “positive” optical power.

Each lens has the following characteristics.
Optical aperture stop ST: An aperture stop that partially blocks light rays that have passed through the first lens group GR1 and the second lens group GR2, and is also expressed as s11. The optical aperture stop ST 1 is integrally formed with the third lens group GR3.
Seventh lens L7: positive meniscus lens convex on the object side Eighth lens L8: negative meniscus lens convex on the object side (s14 is aspheric)
The ninth lens L9: a negative meniscus lens convex on the object side. The tenth lens L10: a positive lens convex on both sides. The eleventh lens L11: a negative meniscus lens on the object side concave (s19 and s20 are aspheric surfaces).
The ninth lens L9 and the tenth lens L10 constitute a cemented lens by being cemented at s17.

<<< About the 4th lens group >>>
The fourth lens group GR4 includes, in order from the object side, a twelfth lens L12 and a thirteenth lens L13. The third lens group GR3 as a whole has “positive” optical power.

Each lens has the following characteristics.
The twelfth lens L12: a positive lens convex on both sides. The thirteenth lens L13: a negative meniscus lens concave on the object side. The twelfth lens L12 and the thirteenth lens L13 constitute a cemented lens by cementing at s22. ing.

<<< About the fifth lens group >>>
The fifth lens group GR5 includes, in order from the object side, a fourteenth lens L14 and an IR cut filter PT. The fifth lens group GR5 as a whole has a “positive” optical power. Note that the fifth lens group GR5 is stationary during zooming as described above.

Each lens has the following characteristics.
14th lens L14: positive meniscus lens concave on the object side (s24 and s25 are aspherical surfaces)
IR cut filter PT: a plane parallel plate having a two-surface configuration (s26 / s27), which absorbs infrared rays.

<<< 2-3-2. About construction data of variable magnification optical system (Example 1) >>
Next, construction data of the variable magnification optical system OS in the lens unit LU of Example 1 will be described with reference to Tables 1 and 2.

  “Ri” in Table 1 indicates a radius of curvature [unit: mm] on each surface (si). An aspheric surface is marked with an asterisk (*). “Di” represents an axial upper surface distance [unit: mm] between the i-th surface (si) and the i + 1-th surface (si + 1). Note that when the axial top surface distance (inter-group distance) changes due to zooming, di in the wide-angle end state (W), di in the intermediate focal length state (M), and di in the telephoto end state (T) are: It is written in this order.

  However, in the lens unit LU of the present invention, the lens group moves differently between moving image shooting and still image shooting. For this reason, “MV” is added to the axial upper surface interval in moving image shooting, and “SE” is added to the axial upper surface interval in still image shooting.

  “Ni” and “υi” indicate the refractive index (Nd) and the Abbe number (νd) of the medium at the axial upper surface spacing (di). The refractive index (Nd) and Abbe number (νd) are for the d-line (wavelength 587.56 nm).

  The “focal length state” means a wide angle end state (W: shortest focal length state) to an intermediate focal length state (M) to a telephoto end state (T: longest focal length state). “F” and “FNO” indicate the focal length [unit: mm] and the F number of the entire system corresponding to the respective focal states (W), (M), and (T). However, “MV” is added for moving image shooting, and “SE” is added for still image shooting.

The aspheric surface is defined by the following equation (definition equation 1).
X (H) = C ₀ · H ² / {1 + √ (1−ε · C ₀ ² · H ² )} + ΣAj · H ^j (Definition Formula 1)
However, in definition formula 1,
H: Height in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis AX X (H): Displacement amount in the optical axis AX direction (sag) at the position of the height H C ₀ : Paraxial curvature (= 1 / ri)
ε: quadratic surface parameter j: degree of aspheric surface,
Aj: j-th order aspheric coefficient.

Therefore, data relating to the aspheric surface (aspherical surface data) is shown in Table 2 below. However, the coefficient of the term which is not described is “0” (zero), and “E−n” = “× 10 ⁻ⁿ ” for all data.

<< 3. About DSC Zooming >>
Here, zooming of the DSC 29 equipped with a variable magnification optical system OS including movable lens groups (GR1 to GR4) will be described. Such zooming (zoom control) is performed by the control unit 21. For example, the control unit 21 performs zooming corresponding to rays of various angles of view by referring to a data table stored in the RAM 23 or the like.

In the data table, for example, the following relationship is described.
・ “Relationship between drive pulse count value of each stepping motor (G1M to G4M) and moving distance of each lens group (GR1 to GR4)”
・ "Relationship between the movement distance of each lens group (GR1 to GR4) and the position (stop position) of each lens group (GR1 to GR5) obtained from this movement distance and initial position"
"Relationship between the position of each lens group (GR1 to GR5) and the focal length of the variable magnification optical system OS (entire system) obtained from these positions"
・ "Relationship between the focal length of the entire system and the angle of view obtained from these focal lengths and the imaging area (image height size, etc.) of the imaging element SR determined in advance"

  In particular, the DSC 29 of the present invention can perform moving image shooting or still image shooting, and performs zooming corresponding to each shooting (moving image shooting or still image shooting). For example, the DSC 29 has a data table (moving image shooting data table) corresponding to different moving image shooting and a data table (still image shooting data table) corresponding to still image shooting, and corresponds to these data tables. Perform zooming.

  Accordingly, changes in the lens group (GR1 to GR5) of the variable magnification optical system OS during zooming in moving image shooting / still image shooting will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 13 shows the lens barrel LB in moving image shooting, and FIG. 14 shows the lens barrel LB in still image shooting. 13 and 14 are schematic sectional views mainly showing the housed state of the second lens group GR2 and the fifth lens group GR5, as in FIG. The image height (Y ′) on the light receiving surface of the image sensor SR is 1.5 mm for moving image shooting and 3.6 mm for still image shooting.

  In FIGS. 13 and 14, the uppermost variable magnification optical system OS in the figure shows the wide-angle end state (W), while the lowermost variable magnification optical system OS shows the telephoto end state (T). The zoom optical system OS shown between the zoom optical system OS in the wide-angle end state (W) and the zoom optical system OS in the telephoto end state (T) has a wide-angle end state (W) and a telephoto end state. (T) shows an arbitrary state (state at an arbitrary variable magnification). For convenience, they are referred to as FIGS. 13A to 13G (FIGS. 14A to 14G) in order from the top to the bottom. For convenience, only the lens groups (GR1 to GR5) in the variable magnification optical system OS are described, and the other members are referred to FIG.

<<<< 3-1. About change of variable magnification optical system in movie shooting >>>>
First, the DSC 29 of the present invention is activated by pressing the start / stop button 14a (see FIG. 9). Thereafter, when the mode switching button 14d is pressed to start the moving image shooting mode, the control unit 21 refers to the moving image shooting data table and sets the zoom optical system OS in a zoomable state. Then, the zoom optical system OS zooms in response to the operation of the zoom operation key 14e. FIG. 13 shows changes in the lens groups (GR1 to GR5) of the variable magnification optical system OS during the zooming (changes in the lens barrel LB).

  In addition, Table 3 below shows the inter-group distance (unit: [mm]) and the total length (unit: [mm]) of the variable magnification optical system OS corresponding to each figure in FIG. 13 (FIGS. 13A to 13G). Show. The total length in Table 3 is the distance from the first lens group GR1 to the IR cut filter PT. FIG. 13A shows the wide-angle end state (W; first angle of view) of the variable magnification optical system OS, and FIG. 13G shows the telephoto end state (T; second angle of view) of the variable magnification optical system OS. This is also shown in the table.

  As shown in FIGS. 13A to 13G, the first lens group GR1 (non-moving lens group) in zooming during moving image shooting remains stopped at a predetermined position (zoom start position). Therefore, as shown in Table 3, the total length of the variable magnification optical system OS remains unchanged. On the other hand, the second lens group GR2 to the fourth lens group GR4 (moving lens group) stop after moving at various positions so as to correspond to the respective variable magnifications. Therefore, as shown in Table 3, the distance between groups (GR1 to GR2, GR2 to GR3, GR3 to GR4, GR4 to GR5) varies according to each zoom ratio (each zoom ratio).

  Then, in the moving image shooting mode, in the DSC 29 of the present invention, at least one lens group (for example, the first lens group GR1) in the plurality of lens groups (GR1 to GR5) is moved to the zoom start position (predetermined value). And at least one lens group (for example, the second lens group GR2 to the fourth lens group GR4) in the other lens groups excluding the lens group moved by this process (first movement process). Is moved to a position corresponding to the variable magnification (second movement step).

  Note that the zoom start position corresponds to the position of the first lens group GR1 (first position) in the wide-angle end state (W) and the first lens group in the telephoto end state (T) during zooming in still image shooting described later. It is between the position of GR1 (second position).

  Furthermore, the movement of each lens group (GR1 to GR5) will be described in detail using the movement trajectory (MM1 to MM5) of FIG. In the case of zooming in the moving image shooting shown in FIG. 1 {zooming toward the wide-angle end state (W) to the telephoto end state (T)}, the first lens group GR1 remains stopped at the zoom start position (predetermined position). (However, the fifth lens group GR5 remains fixed at a predetermined position). Therefore, as shown in Table 3, the total length of the variable magnification optical system OS remains unchanged (constant) during zooming.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 13, the second lens group GR2 to the fourth lens group GR4 stop after moving to various positions corresponding to each magnification. Therefore, as shown in Table 3, the inter-group distances (GR1 to GR2, GR2 to GR3, GR3 to GR4, GR4 to GR5) change according to each zoom ratio.

  3 to 5 show aberrations of the variable magnification optical system OS during zooming in moving image shooting. Specifically, FIG. 3 (FIGS. 3A to 3C) shows the aberration in the wide-angle end state (W), FIG. 4 (FIGS. 4A to 4C) shows the aberration in the intermediate focal length state (M), and FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C) show aberrations in the telephoto end state (T).

  3A, 4A, and 5A show spherical aberration (SA) and sine condition (SC). The line d in the figure is spherical aberration [unit; mm] with respect to the d line, the line g (dashed line) is spherical aberration with respect to the g line (wavelength 435.8 nm) [unit; mm], and the broken line SC is an unsatisfactory sine condition [ Unit: mm]. In these figures, FNO (F number) is also indicated.

  3B, 4B, and 5B show astigmatism. A broken line DM in the figure indicates astigmatism [unit: mm] with respect to the d-line on the meridional surface. A line DS indicates astigmatism [unit: mm] with respect to the d line on the sagittal surface. In these drawings, “Y ′” [unit: mm] which is the maximum image height (distance from the optical axis AX) on the light receiving surface of the image sensor SR is also described.

  3C, FIG. 4C, and FIG. 5C show distortion. The solid line in the figure indicates the distortion [unit:%] with respect to the d line. In these figures, “Y ′” is also written.

<<<< 3-2. About the change of the variable magnification optical system in still image photography >>
On the other hand, when the mode switching button 14d is pressed to start the still image shooting mode, the control unit 21 refers to the still image shooting data table and sets the zoom optical system OS to a zoomable state (see FIG. 9). . Then, the zoom optical system OS zooms in response to the operation of the zoom operation key 14e. FIG. 14 shows changes in the lens groups (GR1 to GR5) of the variable magnification optical system OS during the zooming (changes in the lens barrel LB).

  The inter-group distance (unit: [mm]) corresponding to each figure (FIGS. 14A to 14G) in FIG. 14 and the total length (unit: [mm]) of the variable magnification optical system OS are shown in Table 4 below. Show. Table 4 is expressed in the same manner as Table 3.

  As shown in FIGS. 14A to 14G, the first lens group GR1 to the fourth lens group GR4 in zooming in still image shooting stop after moving to various positions corresponding to each zooming ratio. Therefore, as shown in Table 4, the distance between groups (GR1 to GR2, GR2 to GR3, GR3 to GR4, GR4 to GR5) and the total length of the variable magnification optical system OS change according to each variable magnification ratio. In particular, the total length of the variable magnification optical system OS increases as it approaches the telephoto end state (T).

  Then, in the case of still image shooting, in the DSC 29 of the present invention, a plurality of lens groups including the first lens group GR1 (for example, the first lens group GR1 to the fourth lens group GR4) are moved to positions corresponding to the magnification. The process (3rd movement process) to perform is performed.

  Furthermore, the movement of each lens group (GR1 to GR5) will be described in detail using the movement trajectory (MM1 to MM5) of FIG. In the case of zooming in the still image shooting shown in FIG. 2 {zooming toward the wide-angle end state (W) to the telephoto end state (T)}, the first lens group GR1 does not stop at the zoom start position and does not stop. Move to the object side in response to. However, the fifth lens group GR5 remains fixed at a predetermined position. Therefore, the total length of the variable magnification optical system OS changes according to zooming as shown in Table 4. Specifically, the overall length of the variable magnification optical system OS increases in accordance with zooming from the wide-angle end state (W) to the telephoto end state (T).

  Further, as shown in FIG. 14, the second lens group GR2 to the fourth lens group GR4 stop after moving to various positions corresponding to the respective magnifications, similarly to zooming in moving image shooting. As a result, as shown in Table 4, the intergroup distances (GR1 to GR2, GR2 to GR3, GR3 to GR4, GR4 to GR5) change according to each zoom ratio, as in the zooming in moving image shooting. become.

  6 to 8 show aberrations of the variable magnification optical system OS during zooming in still image shooting. 6 to 8 are expressed in the same manner as in FIGS.

<< 4. DSC zoom control during acquisition image type switching >>
By the way, the DSC 29 of the present invention switches the acquired image type by operating the mode switching button 14d {that is, switching to moving image shooting (moving image mode) or still image shooting (still image mode)}.

  Then, the DSC 29 may be switched to moving image shooting at an arbitrary magnification in still image shooting, or may be switched to still image shooting at an arbitrary magnification in moving image shooting. Therefore, the movement of the lens group when these switching operations are performed will be described with reference to the schematic configuration diagram of FIG. 9 and the flowcharts of FIGS. 15 and 16. Each step in the flowchart is denoted as “S”.

<< 4-1. When switching from still image shooting to movie shooting at any magnification >>>>
FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a case where the still image shooting mode is switched from the arbitrary magnification to the moving image shooting mode. As shown in this flowchart, the control unit 21 of the DSC 29 maintains a still image shooting enabled state (still image shooting mode) (S1). For example, when the mode switch button 14d is pressed by the user, the control unit 21 performs switching from the still image mode to the moving image mode (moving image capturing possible state) (S2; switching step).

  When such switching is performed, the control unit 21 refers to the drive pulse count value of the stepping motors (G1M to G4M) immediately before the switching and the still image shooting data table to thereby change the magnification optical system OS at the time of switching. An angle of view of the obtainable light beam is detected (S3).

  Thereafter, the control unit 21 detects the position of the first lens group GR1 by referring to the drive pulse count value of the first lens group motor G1M immediately before switching and the still image shooting data table. Then, the control unit 21 determines whether or not the detected position of the first lens group GR1 is coincident with a predefined zoom start position (S4).

  In this determination (S4), if the position of the first lens group GR1 is different from the zoom start position (No in S4), the control unit 21 uses the first lens group motor G1M and uses the first lens group GR1. Is moved to the zoom start position (S5).

  Thereafter, the control unit 21 refers to the moving image shooting data table and finds an angle of view that matches the detected angle of view detected in S3 (S6). Then, according to the drive pulse count values of the second lens group motor G2M to the fourth lens group motor G4M corresponding to the field angle found in the moving image shooting data table, the control unit 21 controls the second lens group GR2. -The fourth lens group GR4 is moved (S7; view angle maintaining and moving step). At almost the same time, the control unit 21 switches the imaging area of the imaging element SR to an imaging area corresponding to the moving image shooting mode (S8).

  Then, in the DSC 29 of the present invention, even when switching from still image shooting to moving image shooting (when switching is performed by the switching process), the angle of view of the acquired light beam in zooming before switching and after switching The angle of view of the acquired light beam during zooming substantially coincides with the angle of view (the angle of view cannot be changed by the step of maintaining and moving the angle of view). In S4, if the position of the first lens group GR1 substantially coincides with the zoom start position (Yes in S4), the process proceeds directly from S4 to S5.

<<< 4-2. When switching to still image shooting from any magnification during movie shooting >>>
Next, a case where switching to still image shooting from an arbitrary magnification of moving image shooting will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a case where switching to still image shooting is performed from an arbitrary magnification of moving shooting. As shown in this flowchart, the control unit 21 of the DSC 29 maintains a moving image shooting enabled state (moving image shooting mode) (S11). For example, when the mode switching button 14d is half-pressed by the user, the control unit 21 switches from the moving image mode to the still image mode (still image capturing possible state) (S12; switching step).

  When such switching is performed, the control unit 21 refers to the drive pulse count value of the stepping motors (G1M to G4M) immediately before the switching and the still image shooting data table to thereby change the magnification optical system OS at the time of switching. An angle of view of an obtainable ray is detected (S13).

  Thereafter, the control unit 21 refers to the still image shooting data table and finds an angle of view that matches the detected angle of view detected in S13 (S14). Then, according to the drive pulse count values of the first lens group motor G1M to the fourth lens group motor G4M corresponding to the field angle found in the still image shooting data table, the control unit 21 controls the first lens group. GR1 to the fourth lens group GR4 are moved (S15; view angle maintaining and moving step). At almost the same time, the control unit 21 switches the imaging area of the imaging element SR to an imaging area corresponding to the moving image shooting mode (S16).

  Then, in the DSC 29 of the present invention, even when switching from moving image shooting to still image shooting, the angle of view of the acquired light beam in zooming before switching and the angle of view of the acquired light beam in zooming after switching are set. The angle of view is almost the same (the angle of view cannot be changed by the view angle maintaining and moving step).

<< 5. Examples of various features of the present invention >>
As described above, the DSC 29 of the present invention includes the variable magnification optical system OS and the image pickup element SR that receives the light beam from the photographing target captured by the variable magnification optical system OS. The variable magnification optical system OS has a plurality of lens groups (GR1 to GR5). In particular, the plurality of lens groups (GR1 to GR5) include at least one lens group (for example, GR1 to GR4) that can be moved by the moving mechanism. In addition, the DSC 29 can switch between moving image shooting and still image shooting by the image sensor SR.

  In such a DSC 29 of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 13, 14, 1 and 2, the zooming movement locus of at least one lens group in the moving lens group is the zooming motion in moving image shooting. The case differs from the case of zooming in still image shooting.

  For example, the first lens group GR1 does not move during zooming for moving image shooting, but proceeds from the wide-angle end state (W) to the telephoto end state (T) for zooming during still image shooting. As it moves, it moves to be located on the object side. In addition, the movement trajectories of the second lens group GR2 to the fourth lens group GR4 in the variable magnification optical system OS also differ between zooming for moving image shooting and zooming for still image shooting.

  That is, in the DSC 29 of the present invention, the first lens group GR1 to the fourth lens group GR4 which are at least two lens groups (or at least three lens groups) are movable. In addition, these movable lens groups (GR1 to GR4) move differently for zooming in moving image shooting and zooming in still image shooting.

  Then, the DSC 29 of the present invention can realize zooming based on various movements of the lens groups (GR1 to GR4) according to each shooting mode (moving image shooting mode or still image shooting mode).

  As described above, the first lens group GR1 does not move in the case of zooming for moving image shooting (magnification of the first format), while in the case of zooming for still image shooting (change of the second format). When moving from the wide-angle end state (W) to the telephoto end state (T) toward the object side, the total length of the variable-magnification optical system OS differs between moving image shooting and still image shooting. become.

  For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 13, when zooming so as to capture a light beam between the wide-angle end state (first field angle) and the telephoto end state (second field angle), the DSC 29 is used for moving image shooting. In the zooming, the total length of the variable magnification optical system OS can be made unchanged. On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 14, the DSC 29 can also change the total length of the variable magnification optical system OS during zooming in still image shooting.

  As described above, when the first lens group GR1 is stationary during zooming in moving image shooting, the DSC 29 of the present invention uses the first lens group GR1 located closest to the object side for zooming in moving image shooting. It will not be necessary to move to. Therefore, the DSC 29 of the present invention does not emit a moving sound (zoom sound) of the first lens group GR1, which is a problem during zooming in moving image shooting. Then, for example, the zoom sound is not recorded in the recording unit (for example, the RAM 23) in the DSC 29 at the time of moving image shooting.

  In particular, conventionally, the moving distance of the first lens group GR1 tends to be longer than the other lens groups. Therefore, since such a sound is not recorded, the DSC 29 of the present invention can effectively suppress the noise of the zoom sound.

  On the other hand, the DSC 29 of the present invention is configured to move the first lens group GR1 in accordance with the variable magnification when zooming in still image shooting. For example, when the first lens group GR1 moves to capture a light beam in the wide-angle end state (W) or the like in still image shooting, the DSC 29 of the present invention performs as much as zooming in moving image shooting (that is, up to the zoom start position). ), The first lens group GR1 can be prevented from being extended toward the object side.

  Therefore, in the DSC 29 of the present invention, the size (for example, the front lens diameter) of the first lens group GR1 is relatively small. For example, in both cases of moving image shooting and still image shooting, a first DSC (first lens group always-stop type DSC; conventional device) in which the first lens group is extended and stopped at a certain position to perform zooming. Compared to one lens group, the first lens group GR1 of the DSC 29 of the present invention is smaller.

  In addition, the DSC 29 of the present invention makes the first lens group GR1 movable during zooming in still image shooting, unlike the first lens group normally stop type DSC. Therefore, even if the DSC 29 of the present invention includes the first lens group GR1 having the same size as that of the first lens group normal stop type DSC (for example, the front lens diameter of the same size), the DSC 29 of the present invention is used for still image shooting. Can realize high-magnification photographing as compared with the first lens group always-stop type DSC.

  Therefore, the present invention can be a DSC 29 in which the size of the first lens group GR1 is reduced while exhibiting high performance (for example, high magnification). That is, the DSC 29 with high performance and excellent portability is realized. In addition, in the DSC 29 of the present invention, the first lens group GR1 and the like are stationary during zooming for moving image shooting. Therefore, the DSC 29 of the present invention can also solve the zooming noise problem.

  In order to effectively solve the zooming noise problem, attention may be paid to the weight of the lens group. Usually, the heavier the lens group, the greater the load on the stepping motor. Then, as the load increases, the driving sound (zoom sound) generated from the stepping motor also increases.

  Therefore, in the present invention, the heaviest lens group (for example, the first lens group GR1) in the plurality of lens groups (GR1 to GR5) is immovable during zooming in moving image shooting, and in zooming in still image shooting. Is trying to move.

  With such a configuration, the DSC 29 moves not the heaviest lens group (for example, the first lens group GR1) but the other light lens groups (GR2 to GR4) other than the first lens group GR1, thereby moving the moving image. Zooming in shooting will be performed. Therefore, the DSC 29 of the present invention can reduce the drive sound of the first lens group motor G1M, which is the main cause of the zoom sound.

  It can also be said that the present invention focuses on the number of lens groups. This is because the larger the number of lens groups, the greater the number of zoom sound sources. Therefore, in the DSC 29 of the present invention, the second lens group GR2 to the fourth lens group GR4 (a total of three lens groups) are moved during zooming for moving image shooting, while the first lens group is used for zooming in a still image. GR1 to fourth lens group GR4 (a total of four lens groups) are moved. This is because with this configuration, the DSC 29 of the present invention can reduce the number of zoom sound sources.

  By the way, the DSC 29 of the present invention has both shooting functions of moving image shooting and still image shooting. When such both shooting functions are provided, normally, high performance (for example, high image quality and high resolution) is required for still image shooting, but high performance is not required for moving image shooting as much as still image shooting.

Therefore, in the DSC 29 of the present invention, the imaging area (Y ′ _MV ) by the imaging element SR in moving image shooting is made smaller than the imaging area (Y ′ _SE ) by the imaging element SR in still image shooting ( _Y'MV <_Y'SE ).

  With such a configuration, use of the image sensor SR corresponding to each photographing is realized. For example, in the case of still image shooting, the image pickup surface (light receiving surface) of the image pickup element SR is used over a relatively wide range to increase the number of pixels (high resolution). The number of pixels can be reduced by using only a relatively narrow range of the imaging surface. Therefore, the DSC 29 of the present invention can acquire an image according to the necessity for each shooting. Further, it is not necessary to excessively improve the performance of the variable magnification optical system OS in response to the reduction in the number of pixels. This simplifies the design of the variable magnification optical system OS.

  The DSC 29 of the present invention is provided with a mode switching button 14d for switching between moving image shooting and still image shooting. When the switching by the mode switching button 14d is performed, the DSC 29 sets the lens groups (GR1 to GR4) so that the zooming angle before zooming and the zooming angle after switching are unchanged. Is moving.

In general, the relationship “view angle = image height / focal length” is established. Then, if the use area (for example, image height) of the image sensor SR in moving image shooting is Y ′ _MV , and the focal length of the entire system required when the DSC 29 captures a light beam with an angle of view θ in moving image shooting is f _MV , “θ = Y ′ _MV / f _MV ”is established. On the other hand, if the use area of the image sensor SR in still image shooting is Y ′ _SE and the focal length of the entire system required when the DSC 29 captures a light ray with an angle of view θ in still image shooting is f _SE , “θ = Y ′. _SE / _fSE "is established. Therefore, the relationship “θ = Y ′ _MV / f _MV = Y ′ _SE / f _SE ” is established.

Then, when switching from moving image shooting to still image shooting, the DSC 29 of the present invention determines the image height Y ′ _MV / image height Y ′ _SE already determined and the angle of view θ / focal length f _{MV in} moving image shooting. Thus, the focal length f _SE necessary for maintaining the angle of view θ in still image shooting can be obtained.

The required focal length _fSE is recorded on the data table. Moreover, it is recorded on the lens position is also data table of each lens group (GR1 to GR5) that corresponds to the focal length f _SE. Therefore, as described above, the DSC 29 (specifically, the control unit 21) makes the angle of view of the acquired light beam during zooming before switching and the angle of view of the acquired light beam during zooming after switching unchanged. The lens groups (GR1 to GR4) can be moved.

  With such a configuration, shooting switching (moving image shooting 撮 影 still image shooting) can be performed without giving a sense of incongruity to the user's field of view.

  In the present invention, the following conditional expression (1) may be satisfied with particular attention paid to the lens unit LU.

6.0 <f1 / fw_ty2 <20.0 ... Conditional expression (1)
However,
f1: Focal length of the first lens group GR1 fw_ty2: Focal length of the variable magnification optical system OS in the wide-angle end state (W) in zooming of still image shooting (variation of the second type) [unit: mm]
It is.

  This conditional expression (1) is standardized by dividing the focal length of the first lens group GR1 by the focal length of the variable magnification optical system OS at the wide-angle end state (W) in zooming of still image shooting. . This conditional expression (1) is based on the power of the first lens group GR1, and the zooming optical system OS is reduced in size (for example, downsizing of the first lens group GR1) and the aberration correction is improved in performance ( A range for harmonizing with (aberration suppression) is defined.

  For example, when the lower limit value is exceeded (lower) in the conditional expression (1), it means that the focal length of the first lens group GR1 becomes relatively short, and the positive power of the first lens group GR1 becomes relatively strong. ing. Therefore, for example, the front lens diameter included in the first lens group GR1 can be reduced. However, if the power exerted by the first lens group GR1 is strong, various aberrations (particularly field curvature / distortion aberration) are likely to occur. Then, in order to correct various aberrations satisfactorily, the number of lenses may be increased or an aspherical lens may be formed, resulting in a situation in which downsizing of the variable magnification optical system OS is hindered.

  On the other hand, when the upper limit value is exceeded (exceeded) in the conditional expression (1), it means that the focal length of the first lens group GR1 becomes relatively long, and the positive power of the first lens group GR1 becomes relatively weak. ing. Therefore, in response to this weak power, various aberrations due to the first lens group GR1 are less likely to occur. However, if the power exhibited by the first lens group GR1 is weak, for example, the front lens diameter included in the first lens group GR1 is increased.

  Then, when the lower limit of conditional expression (1) is exceeded, the occurrence of various aberrations is suppressed, while when the upper limit of conditional expression (1) is exceeded, excessive enlargement of the lens unit is suppressed. For this reason, within the range of conditional expression (1), the present invention provides a miniaturized variable magnification optical system OS (and thus a lens unit LU) while suppressing the occurrence of aberrations (while improving performance).

In addition, it is more desirable to satisfy the range of the following conditional expression (1a) among the conditional ranges defined by the conditional expression (1).
7.0 <f1 / fw_ty2 <17.0 Conditional expression (1a)

Further, the lens unit LU of the present invention may satisfy the following conditional expression (2).
0.05 <f3 / f4 <1.00 Conditional expression (2)
However,
f3: focal length of the third lens group GR3 [unit: mm]
f4: focal length of the fourth lens group GR4 [unit: mm]
It is.

  This conditional expression (2) is normalized by dividing the focal length of the third lens group GR3 by the focal length of the fourth lens group GR4. This conditional expression (2) is for harmonizing the miniaturization of the variable magnification optical system OS and the high performance of aberration correction based on the power ratio of the third lens group GR3 and the fourth lens group GR4. The range of is prescribed.

  For example, when the lower limit value is exceeded in conditional expression (2), the focal length of the third lens group GR3 is shortened, or the focal length of the fourth lens group GR4 is lengthened. That is, it means that the power of the third lens group GR3 becomes relatively strong, or the power of the fourth lens group GR4 becomes relatively weak.

  If the power of the third lens group GR3 is relatively strong, various aberrations (particularly, spherical aberration) are likely to occur. Then, in order to satisfactorily correct various aberrations, the number of lenses may be increased or an aspherical lens may be formed, which may cause a situation in which miniaturization of the variable magnification optical system OS is hindered.

  In addition, if the power of the fourth lens group GR4 is relatively weak, various aberrations due to the fourth lens group GR4 are less likely to occur, corresponding to this weak power. However, if the power exhibited by the fourth lens group GR4 is weak, the amount of movement of the fourth lens group GR4 during focusing will be relatively increased. Further, due to the weak power of the fourth lens group GR4, the total length of the variable magnification optical system OS also increases.

  On the other hand, when the upper limit value is exceeded in conditional expression (2), the focal length of the fourth lens group GR4 is often shortened. Then, the power of the fourth lens group GR4 often becomes relatively strong. In such a case, various aberrations (especially field curvature) are likely to occur as the power of the fourth lens group GR4 increases. If such a situation occurs, it becomes difficult to correct the field curvature well from the wide-angle end state (W) to the telephoto end state (T).

  In addition, when the fourth lens group GR4 moves during focusing, aberration fluctuations due to focusing, particularly aberration fluctuations due to field curvature and aberration fluctuations due to chromatic aberration, tend to be relatively large. And in order to correct such aberrations satisfactorily, if the number of lenses is increased or formed on an aspherical lens, a situation in which miniaturization of the variable magnification optical system OS may be hindered may occur.

  Then, within the range of the conditional expression (2), the above-mentioned adverse effects are solved, and the present invention reduces the size of the variable-magnification optical system OS (and thus the lens unit) while suppressing the generation of aberrations (while improving performance). LU).

In addition, it is more desirable to satisfy the range of the following conditional expression (2a) among the conditional ranges defined by the conditional expression (2).
0.20 <f3 / f4 <0.80 Conditional expression (2a)

Moreover, the result of having matched the variable magnification optical system OS of Example 1 with conditional expression (1) and conditional expression (2) is as follows.
○ Condition (1) = 9.619
○ Conditional expression (2) = 0.303

  From the viewpoint of correcting chromatic aberration, in the lens unit LU, the second lens group GR2 may include at least one negative lens and at least one positive lens (in Example 1, the fourth lens). L4 and the fifth lens group GR5 are negative lenses, and the sixth lens L6 is a positive lens).

  By the way, if the second lens group GR2 is used to reduce the size and wide angle of the variable magnification optical system OS, the negative power of the second lens group GR2 tends to be relatively strong. Therefore, various aberrations {particularly negative distortion at the wide-angle end state (W)} are relatively large due to this power increase.

  Therefore, in order to effectively correct such aberration, at least one lens among the lenses included in the second lens group GR2 may be an aspherical lens (in the first embodiment, the fourth lens L4). s6 surface is aspherical). The aspheric shape may be a surface shape that weakens the negative power from the lens center to the periphery. This is because such an aspherical shape can effectively correct distortion and the like.

  In order to improve the telecentricity with respect to the image sensor SR, the lens unit LU has a fifth “positive” power on the image side of the lens group (GR1 to GR4) with the power arrangement “positive / negative / positive / positive”. The lens group GR5 is disposed. In addition, the fifth lens group GR5 is preferably configured not to move during zooming from the wide-angle end state (W) to the telephoto end state (T). For example, as described above, it may be fixedly arranged. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent generation of a gap in the lens barrel LB due to the movement of the fifth lens group GR5. Therefore, there is no problem of adhesion of dust or the like to the image sensor SR and the IR cut filter PT.

  The fifth lens group GR5 may include one lens group that causes an optical action (in the first embodiment, only one of the fourteenth lenses L14 is included). This is because with a single lens (positive lens), an increase in the overall length of the variable magnification optical system OS and an increase in cost associated with an increase in the number of lenses can be suppressed.

  In addition, with a single lens, it is possible to provide good telecentricity for the image sensor SR with a simple configuration. If one lens is formed of resin (for example, plastic), further cost reduction and weight reduction of the variable magnification optical system OS (and thus the lens unit LU) can be achieved.

[Embodiment 2]
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In addition, about the member which has the same function as the member used in Embodiment 1, the same code | symbol is attached and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  The lens unit LU (and hence the DSC 29) of the present invention is not limited to the one provided with the variable magnification optical system 11 of the first embodiment. Accordingly, a lens unit LU (Example 2) having the characteristics that exhibit the effects described above will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18 (however, in these drawings, the image sensor SR is omitted for convenience). FIG. 17 shows the lens unit LU for moving image shooting, and FIG. 18 shows the lens unit LU for still image shooting.

<< 1. About Configuration of Lens Unit of Example 2 >>
Similarly to the first embodiment, the lens unit LU includes a first lens group GR1, a second lens group GR2, a third lens group GR3, a fourth lens group GR4, a fifth lens group GR5, and an imaging element SR in order from the subject to be photographed. Contains.

<< About the first lens group >>
The first lens group GR1 includes a first lens L1, a second lens L2, and a third lens L3 in order from the object side. The first lens group GR1 as a whole has a “positive” optical power.

Each lens has the following characteristics.
First lens L1: Negative meniscus lens convex on the object side Second lens L2: Positive meniscus lens convex on the object side Third lens L3: Positive meniscus lens convex on the object side The first lens L1 and the second lens L2 And constitutes a cemented lens by joining at s2.

<<< Second Lens Group >>>
The second lens group GR2 includes a fourth lens L4, a fifth lens L5, a sixth lens L6, and a seventh lens group L7 in order from the object side. The second lens group GR2 as a whole has “negative” optical power.

Each lens has the following characteristics.
Fourth lens L4: negative meniscus lens convex on the object side fifth lens L5: negative lens concave on both sides, sixth lens L6: positive lens convex on both sides, seventh lens L7: negative meniscus lens concave on the object side (s12 Is aspheric)
The fifth lens L5 and the sixth lens L6 constitute a cemented lens by being cemented at s9.

<< About the third lens group >>
The third lens group GR3 includes an optical aperture stop ST, an eighth lens L8, a ninth lens L9, a tenth lens L10, and an eleventh lens L11 in this order from the object side. The third lens group GR3 as a whole has “positive” optical power.

Each lens has the following characteristics.
Optical aperture stop ST: An aperture stop that partially blocks light rays that have passed through the first lens group GR1 and the second lens group GR2, and is also expressed as s13. The optical aperture stop ST 1 is integrally formed with the third lens group GR3.
Eighth lens L8: Positive lens convex on both sides (s14 is aspheric)
Ninth lens L9: negative meniscus lens convex on the object side tenth lens L10: positive meniscus lens convex on the object side eleventh lens L11: negative meniscus lens convex on the object side (s20 and s21 are aspheric surfaces)

<< About the fourth lens group >>
The fourth lens group GR4 includes a twelfth lens L12 and a thirteenth lens L in order from the object side. The third lens group GR3 as a whole has “positive” optical power.

Each lens has the following characteristics.
The twelfth lens L12: a positive lens convex on both sides The thirteenth lens L13: a negative lens concave on both sides Note that the twelfth lens L12 and the thirteenth lens L13 are cemented at s23 to constitute a cemented lens. .

<<< 5th lens group >>>
The fifth lens group GR5 includes, in order from the object side, a fourteenth lens L14 and an IR cut filter PT. The fifth lens group GR5 as a whole has a “positive” optical power. Note that the fifth lens group GR5 is stationary during zooming as described above.

Each lens has the following characteristics.
14th lens L14: negative meniscus lens concave on the object side (s25 and s26 are aspherical surfaces)
IR cut filter PT: a plane parallel plate with a two-surface configuration (s27 / s28), which absorbs infrared rays.

<< 2. About construction data of variable magnification optical system (Example 2) >>
Next, construction data of the variable magnification optical system OS in the lens unit LU of Example 2 will be described with reference to Tables 5 and 6. Tables 5 and 6 are expressed in the same manner as Tables 1 and 2.

<< 3. About DSC Zooming >>
<<<< 3-1. About change of variable magnification optical system (Example 2) in moving image recording >>>>
Here, the movement of each lens group (GR1 to GR5) will be described in detail using the movement locus (MM1 to MM5) of FIG. In the case of zooming (zooming toward the wide-angle end state (W) to the telephoto end state (T)) in moving image shooting shown in FIG. 17, the first lens group GR1 is at the zoom start position (predetermined position) as in the first embodiment. (The fifth lens group GR5 remains fixed at a predetermined position). Therefore, the total length of the variable magnification optical system OS remains unchanged (constant) during zooming.

  On the other hand, the second lens group GR2 to the fourth lens group GR4 stop after moving at various positions so as to correspond to the respective variable magnifications. For example, the second lens group GR2 moves to the image side during zooming from the wide-angle end state (W) to the telephoto end state (T). The third lens group GR3 moves to the object side. The fourth lens group GR4 performs a U-turn movement that moves to the object side after moving to the image side. Therefore, the inter-group distances (GR1 to GR2, GR2 to GR3, GR3 to GR4, GR4 to GR5) change according to each zoom ratio as in the first embodiment.

  FIGS. 19 to 21 show aberrations of the variable magnification optical system OS of Example 2 during zooming in moving image shooting. 19 to 21 are expressed in the same manner as FIGS. 3 to 5.

<<<< 3-2. About change of variable magnification optical system (Example 2) in still image photography >>>>
Next, the movement of each lens group (GR1 to GR5) will be described in detail using the movement locus (MM1 to MM5) of FIG. In the case of zooming in the still image shooting shown in FIG. 18 {zooming toward the wide-angle end state (W) to the telephoto end state (T)}, the first lens group GR1 stops at the zoom start position as in the first embodiment. Without moving to the object side according to the magnification. However, the fifth lens group GR5 remains fixed at a predetermined position. Therefore, the overall length of the variable magnification optical system OS changes according to zooming. Specifically, as in Example 1, the overall length of the variable magnification optical system OS increases as zooming from the wide-angle end state (W) to the telephoto end state (T) is performed.

  The second lens group GR2 to the fourth lens group GR4 are stopped after moving at various positions so as to correspond to the respective variable magnifications, similarly to zooming in moving image shooting. For example, in zooming from the wide-angle end state (W) to the telephoto end state (T), the second lens group GR2 performs a U-turn movement that moves once to the image side and then moves to the object side. In addition, the third lens group GR3 moves to the object side, like the first lens group GR1. The fourth lens group GR4 performs U-turn movement that moves to the image side after moving to the object side. As a result, the inter-group distances (GR1 to GR2, GR2 to GR3, GR3 to GR4, GR4 to GR5) change according to each zoom ratio, similarly to zooming in moving image shooting.

  22 to 24 show the aberration of the variable magnification optical system OS during zooming in still image shooting. 22 to 24 are expressed in the same manner as in FIGS.

<< 4. Example of characteristics of embodiment 2 >>
The lens unit 1 (DSC 29) provided with the variable magnification optical system 11 of Example 2 is different in that the number of lenses included in the second lens group GR2 is four. However, in other respects, it can be said that the configuration is similar to the lens unit LU described in the first embodiment. Therefore, it goes without saying that such a lens unit 1 has the features described in the first embodiment and has the same effects.

Therefore, when the variable magnification optical system OS of Example 2 is made to correspond to the conditional expressions (1) and (2), the following results are obtained. These results are within the ranges of the conditional expressions (1) and (2).
Conditional expression (1) = 12.312
○ Condition (2) = 0.241

  By the way, in general, when a variable magnification optical system OS having a power arrangement of “positive / negative / positive / positive” is used to achieve a high zoom ratio and wide angle, chromatic aberration (particularly, at the wide-angle end) caused by the second lens group GR2. The chromatic aberration of magnification in the state (W) is relatively large. As a method for correcting this aberration, there is a method of including a relatively low dispersion negative lens in the second lens group GR2. However, this method is not preferable because the negative lens has a relatively low refractive index because of its low dispersion. This is because it is difficult to process the negative lens having a low refractive index (low power) to have a high refractive index (high power) (for example, processing to form a surface having a relatively small curvature radius).

  However, like the lens unit LU of Example 2, the second lens group GR2 includes at least three negative lenses (specifically, the fourth lens L4, the fifth lens L5, and the seventh lens L7), and at least If one positive lens (specifically, the sixth lens L6) is included, the negative power in the second lens group GR2 can be dispersed to a plurality of negative lenses. Therefore, processing of the negative lens is simplified. In addition, such a lens unit LU can correct chromatic aberration with a simple lens.

[Other embodiments]
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

<< 1. About movement of each lens group in shooting switching >>
For example, in the DSC 29 of the present invention, when shooting is switched, the angle of view of the acquired light beam in zooming before switching and the image of the acquired light beam in zooming after switching are not given to the user's view. An example of making the corners invariant has been given, but the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, the start position (moving image shooting mode start position / still image shooting mode start position) of each lens group corresponding to each mode of the moving image shooting mode and the still image shooting mode is determined, and switching of shooting (moving image shooting mode) When a still image is taken, zooming may always be started from the starting position. With such a configuration, although the user's field of view is uncomfortable, it is possible to reduce the control load for making the angle of view unchanged when switching the shooting.

  The DSC 29 moves the other lens groups so that the angle of view corresponds to the reference position when at least one lens group immediately before switching is used as a reference when shooting is switched. Also good. With such a configuration, although the user's field of view is uncomfortable, it is possible to reduce the time required to move the lens group for switching the shooting (that is, the lens group moves relatively quickly).

  In addition, when the main power supply (start / stop button 14a) is ON, the DSC 29 may be configured such that shooting switching is disabled by a user operation. With such a configuration, since the lens group cannot move in switching of shooting, collision of the lens group and the like can never occur.

<< 2. Zoom start position >>
In the DSC 29 of the present invention, the stop position (zoom start position) of the first lens group GR1 that does not move during zooming during moving image shooting is not particularly limited. However, the zoom start position includes a stop position (first position) where the first lens group GR1 captures a light beam in the wide-angle end state (W) during zooming in still image shooting, and a telephoto end in zooming in still image shooting. It is desirable to be between the stop position (second position) for capturing the light beam in the state (T).

When this zoom start position is expressed by the distance from the image sensor SR, the following relationship {conditional expression (3)} can be derived.
d (GR1-SR) w_ty2 <d (GR1-SR) _ty1 <d (GR1-SR) t_ty2 Conditional expression (3)
However,
d (GR1-SR) w_ty2: distance [unit: mm] between the first lens group GR1 and the image pickup element SR in the wide-angle end state (W 1) in zooming in still image shooting (second format)
d (GR1-SR) _ty1: Distance [unit: mm] between the first lens group GR1 and the image sensor SR in zooming of moving image shooting (first format)
d (GR1-SR) t_ty2: Distance [unit: mm] between the first lens group GR1 and the image sensor SR in the telephoto end state (T) during zooming in still image shooting
It is.

  With such a configuration, the DSC 29 does not have to provide a special mechanism or the like for setting the zoom start position. That is, in zooming in still image shooting, since the zoom start position is defined within the range (limited range) of the first lens group GR1 that can be moved to the maximum, the first lens group GR1 is moved beyond the limited range. A special mechanism or the like for positioning is not necessary. Therefore, an increase in the cost of the DSC 29 of the present invention is suppressed.

  Further, like the lens unit LU including the variable magnification optical system OS of Example 2, the following conditional expression (4) may be satisfied (see d5 in Table 5).

d (GR1-GR2) w_ty1 <d (GR1-GR2) w_ty2 Conditional expression (4)
However,
d (GR1-GR2) w_ty1: Distance between the first lens group GR1 and the second lens group GR2 in the wide-angle end state (W) during the zooming of the moving image shooting (first format) [unit: mm]
d (GR1-GR2) w_ty2: Distance between the first lens group GR1 and the second lens group GR2 in the wide-angle end state (W 1) during zooming of still image shooting (second format) [unit: mm]
It is.

  Usually, by adjusting the distance between the first lens group GR1 and the second lens group GR2, the angle of view of the light rays that can be obtained changes. If the distance between the first lens group GR1 and the second lens group GR2 is narrow, it is easy to capture light having a relatively large angle of view. Then, in the lens unit LU of the present invention, zooming in moving image shooting can easily capture a light beam having a larger angle of view than in zooming in still image shooting. Then, the degree of freedom in designing a variable magnification optical system OS that can cope with zooming in moving image shooting increases.

<< 3. About the lens group moving mechanism >>
Further, in the DSC 29 described as an example above, the lens groups (GR1 to GR4) that move during zooming are moved independently by the power of the stepping motors (G1M to G4M) respectively corresponding to the lens groups. It has become. Such a DSC 29 is advantageous if the configuration of the moving mechanism (lens barrel LB) is simplified. However, the DSC 29 of the present invention is not limited to such a lens barrel LB.

  For example, it may be a lens barrel (moving mechanism) including a fixed cylinder, a rectilinear cylinder, a moving cylinder, and a cam ring. In such a configuration, the fixed cylinder is attached to the body of the DSC, and the rectilinear cylinder is stored in the fixed cylinder. Further, the movable cylinder is housed in a straight cylinder. Further, the cam ring is accommodated between the fixed cylinder and the rectilinear cylinder.

  And the pin is provided in the movable cylinder. This pin fits into a through hole provided in the cylinder axis direction (axial direction) of the straight cylinder, and engages with the first cam groove and the second cam groove provided on the inner periphery of the cam ring (cam engagement). ). Therefore, when the cam ring rotates, the movable cylinder moves back and forth along the optical axis direction. Then, if the first lens group is attached to the movable cylinder via the first lens group holder, the moving cylinder can be moved back and forth (movable) along the optical axis direction according to the rotation of the cam ring. The cam ring (first power transmission unit) may be rotated by a dedicated stepping motor, a DC motor or the like (drive source), or may be manually rotated.

  Then, even in a lens barrel using a cam ring, in the DSC of the present invention, the first lens group (non-moving lens group) that is stationary during zooming in moving image shooting is the cam ring (first power transmission unit). By receiving the power (for example, torque) of the stepping motor via the zoom, zooming in still image shooting can be performed. On the other hand, the second lens group to the fourth lens group (moving lens group) that move during zooming in moving image shooting receive the power of the stepping motor via a rack (second power transmission unit) and the like, You can move during zooming in still image shooting.

  That is, in DSC, only the first lens group that does not move during zooming during moving image shooting can be moved during zooming during still image shooting by receiving power from a stepping motor or the like via the cam ring. On the other hand, a lens group (second lens group to fourth lens group) that moves in zooming during moving image shooting receives power from a stepping motor or the like through a rack, thereby zooming in moving image shooting and still image shooting. Can be moved.

  With this configuration, when the heaviest first lens group GR1 is moved, a deceleration movement through the cam ring is realized. Therefore, the load on the stepping motor or the like can be reduced, and a relatively low power and inexpensive stepping motor or the like can be used. As a result, the DSC 29 that achieves cost reduction is realized.

<< 4. About the present invention from the viewpoint of programs and storage media >>
By the way, the operation | movement (for example, control part 21 grade | etc.,) Of each part of DSC29 of this invention is implement | achieved also by the program (for example, scaling control program) for functioning them. This program is a program to be executed by a computer and can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. As a result, the program can be provided as a recording medium in a portable manner.

  As the recording medium, since processing is performed by a microcomputer, a memory such as a ROM may be a program medium. In addition, a program reading device may be provided as an external storage device (not shown), and the program medium may be read by inserting a recording medium therein.

  In any case, the stored program may be executed by access by a microprocessor (for example, the control unit 21). Alternatively, in any case, a program may be read and the read program may be executed after being downloaded to a program storage area (not shown). It is assumed that this download program is stored in the main device (DSC 29) in advance.

  Here, the program medium is a recording medium configured to be separable from the main body (DSC 29), for example, a tape system such as a magnetic tape or a cassette tape, a magnetic disk such as a floppy disk or a hard disk, or a CD-ROM / MO /. Disk system of optical disks such as MD / DVD, card system such as IC card (including memory card) / optical card, mask ROM, EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electronically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory), It may be a medium that carries a fixed program including a semiconductor memory such as a flash memory.

  Further, the DSC 29 of the present invention can be configured to be connectable to a communication network including the Internet. Therefore, it may be a medium that fluidly carries the program so as to download the program from the communication network.

  When the program is downloaded from the communication network in this way, the download program may be stored in advance in the main device (DSC 29) or installed from another recording medium. .

<< 5. About Various Inventions >>
By the way, the present invention can be grasped at various angles. Therefore, a part of the present invention that can be grasped below will be described.

  A zooming optical system including a plurality of lens groups and including at least one lens group that is movable in the optical axis direction of the lens by a moving mechanism among the plurality of lens groups, and a zooming power And an image sensor that receives light from a subject to be captured that is captured by the optical system. Furthermore, this imaging device has a function of switching between moving image shooting and still image shooting by the image sensor.

  And in the imaging device of the present invention, the movement locus of zooming by at least one lens group in the moving lens group is zooming in moving image shooting and zooming in still image shooting, It has become different.

  There are various examples of the movement of the lens groups having different movement trajectories. For example, at least two of the plurality of lens groups can be moved, and zooming is performed so as to capture light rays between the first field angle (wide angle end) and the second field angle (telephoto end). In the case of an imaging device that performs this, the total length of the variable magnification optical system is unchanged during zooming from the first angle of view to the second angle of view in moving image shooting, while the first angle of view from the first angle of view in still image shooting. The movement is such that the entire length of the zoom optical system changes during zooming up to two angles of view.

  In addition, in the case of an imaging apparatus in which at least three lens groups out of a plurality of lens groups are movable so as to change the magnification so as to capture light rays between the first angle of view and the second angle of view. The number of lens groups that move during zooming from the first angle of view to the second angle of view during shooting moves during zooming between the first angle of view and the second angle of view during still image shooting. The movement may be less than the number of lens groups.

  Regardless of the movement, the imaging apparatus of the present invention realizes zooming based on various movements of each lens group in accordance with each photographing (moving picture photographing or still picture photographing).

  In any case, the image pickup apparatus of the present invention moves at least one lens group of a plurality of lens groups to a predetermined position regardless of the magnification ratio when zooming in moving image shooting. While including a first movement step and a second movement step of moving at least one lens group in the other lens group excluding the lens group moved by the first movement step to a position corresponding to the variable magnification, In zooming in still image shooting, a zooming control method including a third moving step of moving a plurality of lens groups including a lens group that moves to a predetermined position to a position corresponding to the zooming ratio is performed. It has become.

  In the imaging apparatus of the present invention as described above, in particular, the lens group closest to the object side in the plurality of lens groups is immobile in zooming in moving image shooting, but in zooming in still image shooting. Is desirable to move. That is, it is only necessary that the lens group that is moved in the first moving step is the lens group closest to the object in the plurality of lens groups.

  As described above, if the lens group closest to the object side (most object side lens group) does not move at a predetermined position in zooming in moving image shooting, it is caused by the zooming movement of the most object side lens group. Sound (variable sound) cannot occur. In particular, conventionally, the moving distance of the most object side lens unit tends to be longer than that of other lens units. Therefore, if such sound is not recorded, the imaging apparatus of the present invention effectively solves the noise problem of variable magnification. Can be resolved.

  In addition, the image pickup apparatus of the present invention moves the lens unit closest to the object side in accordance with the zoom ratio when zooming in still image shooting. For example, when moving the most object side lens group to capture a wide-angle end light beam in still image shooting, the image pickup apparatus of the present invention is closer to the most object side when zooming in moving image shooting (that is, at a predetermined position). It is possible to prevent the lens group from being extended toward the object side. Then, in such a case, in the imaging apparatus of the present invention, the size of the most object side lens group (and hence the variable magnification optical system) becomes relatively small.

  In the image pickup apparatus of the present invention, the most object side lens unit is movable during zooming in still image shooting. Therefore, even if the most object side lens unit of the same size as that of an imaging device (conventional device) that performs zooming with the most object side lens unit fixed during zooming in still image shooting is provided, The imaging device can realize high-magnification shooting as compared with the conventional device.

  Therefore, the present invention provides an image pickup apparatus in which the size of the variable magnification optical system is reduced while exhibiting high performance. In addition, for example, since the most object side lens unit is stationary, an imaging apparatus capable of solving the noise problem due to zooming is realized.

  Note that the weight of the lens group may be noted when trying to effectively solve the noise problem during zooming. For example, in the image pickup apparatus of the present invention, the heaviest lens group (the heaviest lens group) in a plurality of lens groups is stationary in zooming in moving image shooting, but in zooming in still image shooting. May be moved. In other words, the lens group that moves in the first moving step only needs to be the heaviest lens group in the plurality of lens groups.

  With such a configuration, the image pickup apparatus of the present invention performs zooming in moving image shooting by moving not the heaviest lens group but another light lens group. Therefore, the image pickup apparatus of the present invention can reduce drive sound such as a drive source that moves the heaviest lens group that is a main cause of variable magnification sound.

  By the way, in the imaging device of the present invention, it is desirable that the imaging area by the imaging device for moving image shooting is smaller than the imaging area by the imaging device for still image shooting. In an imaging device equipped with both video shooting and still image shooting functions, high performance (for example, high image quality, high resolution) is usually required for still image shooting. This is because it is not required.

  Note that the imaging apparatus of the present invention is provided with a switching unit that switches between moving image shooting and still image shooting. When switching is performed by the switching unit, the lens group has a light beam at a magnification before switching. The angle of view and the angle of view of the light beam after zooming are changed so as to remain unchanged. That is, in the zooming control method of the present invention, the switching step for switching between image shooting and still image shooting, and when switching is performed by the switching step, the angle of view of the light beam at the zooming before switching and switching An angle-of-view maintaining / moving step of moving the lens group so as to make the angle of view of the light rays after changing magnification unchanged.

  This is because, with such a configuration, it is possible to switch shooting (moving image shooting / still image shooting) without giving the user a sense of incongruity.

  In the imaging apparatus of the present invention, the position of the stationary lens group that is a lens group that does not move during zooming during moving image shooting is such that the stationary lens group captures a light beam having the first angle of view during zooming during still image shooting. It is desirable to be between the first position for capturing and the second position for capturing the light beam having the second angle of view in zooming in still image shooting.

  With such a configuration, it is not necessary to provide a special mechanism or the like for setting a position for starting zooming in zooming (zooming start position). Therefore, an increase in the cost of the imaging device of the present invention can be suppressed.

  By the way, the moving mechanism of the present invention is not particularly limited. For example, the moving mechanism may include a plurality of drive sources, and the lens groups that move during zooming may be moved independently by the power of the drive sources that respectively correspond to the lens groups.

  Further, the moving mechanism may include a drive source and a first power transmission unit that changes (for example, reduces and transmits) the power (for example, torque) of the drive source. In such a case, in the image pickup apparatus of the present invention, only the lens group that does not move during zooming during moving image shooting receives the power of the drive source via the first power transmission unit (for example, a cam ring) and can capture still images. It is designed to move at variable magnification.

  On the other hand, in order to move the other lens groups, the moving mechanism further includes a second power transmission unit that directly transmits the power of the drive source (transmits the power unchanged). Then, in the imaging apparatus of the present invention, only the lens group that does not move during zooming during moving image shooting receives the power of the drive source via the first power transmission unit and moves during zooming during still image shooting. On the other hand, the lens group that moves in zooming in moving image shooting receives power from a drive source via a second power transmission unit (for example, a rack) and moves in zooming in moving image shooting and still image shooting. It will be.

  Note that the operation of each part (lens group, etc.) of the image pickup apparatus of the present invention is also realized by a program (magnification control program) for causing them to function.

  For example, the imaging apparatus of the present invention includes a plurality of lens groups, and a variable magnification optical system including at least one lens group that is movable by a moving mechanism that uses the power of a drive source for the plurality of lens groups. And an image sensor that receives light from the object to be captured that is captured by the variable magnification optical system, and a control unit that controls the operation of the drive source, and can switch between moving image shooting and still image shooting using the image sensor. .

  Then, according to the present invention, the moving locus of zooming by at least one lens group in the moving lens group is different between the zooming in moving image shooting and the zooming in still image shooting. It can also be said to be a scaling control program that causes the control unit to perform operation control of the drive source.

  In the imaging apparatus of the present invention, at least two of the plurality of lens groups may be movable, and the magnification may be changed so as to capture light rays between the first angle of view and the second angle of view. Good. For this reason, the zoom control program of the present invention makes the entire length of the zoom optical system unchanged during zooming from the first angle of view to the second angle of view in moving image shooting, while the first zoom in still image shooting. The controller controls the operation of the drive source so that the total length of the variable magnification optical system is changed during variable magnification from the first angle of view to the second angle of view.

  In the imaging apparatus according to the present invention, at least three of the plurality of lens groups may be moved, and the magnification may be varied so as to capture light rays between the first angle of view and the second angle of view. Good. For this purpose, the zoom control program of the present invention determines the number of lens groups that move during zooming from the first angle of view in moving image shooting to the second angle of view from the first angle of view in still image shooting. The controller controls the operation of the drive source so as to be smaller than the number of the lens groups moving during zooming up to the second angle of view.

  It should be noted that the zoom control program of the present invention makes the lens group closest to the object side among a plurality of lens groups stationary in zooming during moving image shooting, but moves during zooming during still image shooting. The control unit may execute the operation control of the drive source.

  In addition, the zoom control program of the present invention is configured so that the heaviest lens group in a plurality of lens groups does not move during zooming during moving image shooting but moves during zooming during still image shooting. The control unit may execute the operation control of the drive source.

  By the way, the control unit in the image pickup apparatus of the present invention controls the operation of moving image shooting or still image shooting by the image sensor. Therefore, the zooming control program of the present invention may be executed by the control unit so that the imaging area by the imaging device in moving image shooting is smaller than the imaging area by the imaging device in still image shooting.

  Further, the imaging apparatus of the present invention is provided with a switching unit that switches between moving image shooting and still image shooting. Therefore, in the zoom control program of the present invention, when switching is performed by the switching unit, the angle of view of the light beam before zooming and the angle of view of the light beam after zooming are unchanged. Alternatively, the control unit may control the operation of the drive source that moves the lens group.

  The present invention may be a computer-readable recording medium that records such a scaling control program.

It is a lens block diagram of the lens unit (Example 1) of this invention in video recording. It is a lens block diagram of the lens unit (Example 1) of this invention in still image photography. FIG. 4A is an aberration diagram in a wide-angle end state (W) in zooming with a lens unit (Example 1) for moving image shooting, (A) is a spherical aberration diagram, (B) is an astigmatism diagram, and (C) is a distortion aberration diagram. It is. FIG. 4A is an aberration diagram in an intermediate focal length state (M) in zooming with a lens unit (Example 1) for moving image shooting, (A) is a spherical aberration diagram, (B) is an astigmatism diagram, and (C) is distortion aberration. FIG. It is an aberration diagram of the telephoto end state (T) in zooming with the lens unit (Example 1) for moving image shooting, (A) is a spherical aberration diagram, (B) is an astigmatism diagram, and (C) is a distortion aberration diagram. It is. FIG. 4 is an aberration diagram in a wide-angle end state (W) in zooming with a lens unit (Example 1) for taking a still image, (A) is a spherical aberration diagram, (B) is an astigmatism diagram, and (C) is a distortion aberration. FIG. FIG. 4A is an aberration diagram in an intermediate focal length state (M) in zooming with a lens unit (Example 1) for taking a still image, FIG. 3A is a spherical aberration diagram, FIG. 3B is an astigmatism diagram, and FIG. It is an aberration diagram. It is an aberration diagram of the telephoto end state (T) in zooming with the lens unit (Example 1) for taking a still image, (A) is a spherical aberration diagram, (B) is an astigmatism diagram, and (C) is a distortion aberration. FIG. It is a schematic block diagram of the digital still camera (DSC) of this invention. FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view mainly showing the housing state of the second lens group and the fifth lens group, showing the internal structure of the lens barrel that houses the variable magnification optical system. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view mainly showing the housed state of a first lens group, a third lens group, and a fifth lens group, showing the internal structure of a lens barrel that houses a variable magnification optical system. FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view mainly showing the housed state of the fourth lens group and the fifth lens group, showing the internal structure of the lens barrel that houses the variable magnification optical system. 2A and 2B are schematic cross-sectional views of a lens barrel at zooming in moving image shooting, where FIG. 1A is a wide-angle end state, FIG. 1G is a telephoto end state, and FIGS. It is the schematic sectional drawing which showed the arbitrary states between. It is a schematic sectional view of the lens barrel at zooming in still image shooting, (A) is a wide-angle end state, (G) is a telephoto end state, and (B) to (F) are wide-angle end states and a telephoto end. It is the schematic sectional drawing which showed the arbitrary states between states. It is a flowchart which shows the movement of a lens group when switching from a still image photography to a moving image photography is performed. It is a flowchart which shows the movement of a lens group when switching from a moving image photography to a still image photography is performed. It is a lens block diagram of the lens unit (Example 2) of this invention in video recording. It is a lens block diagram of the lens unit (Example 2) of this invention in still image photography. FIG. 4A is an aberration diagram in a wide-angle end state (W) during zooming in a lens unit (Example 2) for moving image shooting, (A) is a spherical aberration diagram, (B) is an astigmatism diagram, and (C) is a distortion aberration diagram. It is. FIG. 4A is an aberration diagram in an intermediate focal length state (M) in zooming with a lens unit (Example 2) for moving image shooting, (A) is a spherical aberration diagram, (B) is an astigmatism diagram, and (C) is distortion aberration. FIG. FIG. 4A is an aberration diagram in a telephoto end state (T) in zooming with a lens unit (Example 2) for moving image shooting, (A) is a spherical aberration diagram, (B) is an astigmatism diagram, and (C) is a distortion aberration diagram. It is. FIG. 4A is an aberration diagram in a wide-angle end state (W) in zooming with a lens unit (Example 2) for taking a still image, FIG. 3A is a spherical aberration diagram, FIG. 3B is an astigmatism diagram, and FIG. FIG. FIG. 4A is an aberration diagram in an intermediate focal length state (M) in zooming with a lens unit (Example 2) for taking a still image, FIG. 3A is a spherical aberration diagram, FIG. 3B is an astigmatism diagram, and FIG. It is an aberration diagram. FIG. 4 is an aberration diagram in a telephoto end state (T) in zooming with a lens unit (Example 2) for taking a still image, (A) is a spherical aberration diagram, (B) is an astigmatism diagram, and (C) is a distortion aberration. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

1 Optical system unit 14 Operation unit (switching unit)
14d Mode switching button (switching unit)
21 Control unit 22 ROM
23 RAM
29 DSC (imaging device)
OS variable magnification optical system LU lens unit SR imaging element s lens surface L lens * aspheric surface AX optical axis GR1 first lens group GR2 second lens group GR3 third lens group GR4 fourth lens group GR5 fifth lens group PT IR cut Filter G1M First lens group motor (drive source, moving mechanism)
G2M second lens group motor (drive source, moving mechanism)
G3M Third lens group motor (drive source, moving mechanism)
G4M Fourth lens group motor (drive source, moving mechanism)
LB lens barrel (movement mechanism)
FB Fixed cylinder (moving mechanism)
MB moving cylinder (moving mechanism)
MM1 Movement locus of the first lens group MM2 Movement locus of the second lens group MM3 Movement locus of the third lens group MM4 Movement locus of the fourth lens group MM5 Movement locus of the fifth lens group

Claims (13)

A lens unit including a variable magnification optical system having a plurality of lens groups, and an image sensor that receives light that has passed through the variable magnification optical system,
A lens having a moving path of zooming by at least one lens group in the plurality of lens groups is different between the first type of zooming and the second type of zooming. unit. The plurality of lens groups are
From the object side to the image side, at least,
A first lens group having positive power;
A second lens group having negative power;
A third lens group having positive power;
A fourth lens group having positive power;
The lens unit according to claim 1, comprising:   3. The lens unit according to claim 2, wherein the first lens group is a lens group that shows different movement loci for the first type of zooming and the second type of zooming. .   4. The lens unit according to claim 2, wherein the first lens group does not move in the case of the first type of zooming but moves in the case of the second type of zooming. 5. . The lens unit according to claim 2, wherein the following conditional expression (1) is satisfied:
6.0 <f1 / fw_ty2 <20.0 ... Conditional expression (1)
However,
f1: focal length of the first lens unit fw_ty2: focal length of the variable magnification optical system at the wide angle end state in the second type of variable magnification. The lens unit according to claim 2, wherein the following conditional expression (2) is satisfied:
0.05 <f3 / f4 <1.00 Conditional expression (2)
However,
f3: focal length of the third lens group f4: focal length of the fourth lens group   The lens unit according to claim 2, wherein the second lens group includes at least one negative lens and at least one positive lens.   The lens unit according to claim 7, wherein the negative lens included in the second lens group is formed with an aspherical surface. The lens unit according to claim 2, wherein the following conditional expression (3) is satisfied:
d (GR1-SR) w_ty2 <d (GR1-SR) _ty1 <d (GR1-SR) t_ty2 Conditional expression (3)
However,
d (GR1-SR) w_ty2: distance between the first lens group and the image pickup element in the wide-angle end state in the second type variable magnification d (GR1-SR) _ty1: the first lens group in the first type variable magnification Distance d (GR1-SR) t_ty2 with the image pickup element: Distance between the first lens group and the image pickup element in the telephoto end state in the second type of zooming. The lens unit according to claim 2, wherein the following conditional expression (4) is satisfied:
d (GR1-GR2) w_ty1 <d (GR1-GR2) w_ty2 Conditional expression (4)
However,
d (GR1-GR2) w_ty1: Distance between the first lens group and the second lens group at the wide-angle end state in the first type of zooming d (GR1-GR2) w_ty2: Wide-angle end in the second type of zooming This is the distance between the first lens group and the second lens group in the state. An imaging apparatus comprising the lens unit according to claim 2.
  12. The imaging area used by the imaging device for zooming in the first format is smaller than the imaging area used for the imaging device for scaling in the second format. Imaging device. There is provided a switching unit for switching between the first type of zooming and the second type of zooming,
The imaging apparatus according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the first type of zooming is zooming in moving image shooting, and the second type of zooming is zooming in still image shooting.

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