JP2019066801A - Optical member changeover device - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a thin optical member changeover device for selectively inserting an optical member such as optical filter into an optical path of optical equipment.SOLUTION: The optical member changeover device comprises a first optical member and a second optical member, which are disposed on the same plane crossing the optical axis of the optical path. A first movement mechanism is configured to move the first optical member in a direction crossing the optical axis to thereby insert the first optical member in the optical path or evacuate the same from the optical path. A second movement mechanism is configured to move the second optical member in a direction crossing the optical axis to thereby insert the second optical member in the optical path or evacuate the same from the optical path. The first and second movement mechanisms are disposed at both sides of the optical path. The direction that the first optical member evacuates from the optical path and the direction that the second optical member evacuates from the optical path are opposite to each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

  The present invention relates to an optical member switching device, and more particularly to a switching device for switching an optical member used in an imaging device.

  Generally, an imaging apparatus such as a digital camera is provided with a mechanism for changing the characteristics of an optical image incident on an imaging sensor (imaging element). As one of the mechanisms, for example, there is an optical member switching device which incorporates a plurality of optical filters (optical members) and moves each of the optical filters to a position in and out of the optical path. Then, the user can obtain an optimal imaging mode by moving an appropriate optical filter into the optical path according to the imaging environment or the imaging intention using the optical member switching device. In addition, as the optical filter, for example, an ND filter and an IR cut filter are often used.

  As an optical member switching device as described above, for example, there is known one which is miniaturized by arranging a plurality of optical filters in planes different from each other at right angles to the optical axis of the imaging optical system (Patent Document 1).

Patent No. 6054429

  However, in the optical member switching device described in Patent Document 1, since the plurality of optical filters are all arranged in planes different from each other at right angles to the optical axis, the thickness in the optical axis direction increases as the number of optical filters increases. Will increase. Therefore, as the number of optical filters increases, it becomes difficult to reduce the thickness.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an optical member switching device capable of achieving thinning even if the number of optical members such as an optical filter increases.

  In order to achieve the above object, an optical member switching device according to the present invention comprises at least a first optical member and a second optical member, and selectively switches an optical member inserted in an optical path formed in an optical device. In the optical member switching device, each of the first optical member and the second optical member is disposed in the same plane intersecting the optical axis of the optical path, and the first optical member is used as the light. A first moving mechanism for moving the first optical member in the optical path or retracting the optical path by moving in a direction crossing the axis, and moving the second optical member in the direction crossing the optical axis A second moving mechanism for inserting the second optical member into the optical path or retracting the second optical member from the optical path, the first moving mechanism and the second moving mechanism sandwiching the optical path Disposed, the first optical member being in front The direction of the a direction to retreat from the optical path the second optical member is retracted from the optical path, characterized in that the opposing.

  When an optical member such as an optical filter is selectively provided as a phase in the optical path of the optical device, the optical member switching device can be thinned even if the number of optical members is increased.

It is a figure for demonstrating an example of an imaging device provided with the optical member switching apparatus by the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which disassembles and shows the optical member switching apparatus shown in FIG. 1 from a front. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing an example of a first drive unit shown in FIG. 2; It is a perspective view which shows the connection part of the worm and gear in the 1st motor shown in FIG. It is a perspective view for demonstrating the 1st and 2nd optical filter holding member and 1st and 2nd optical filter with which the optical member switching apparatus shown in FIG. 1 is equipped. It is a front view for demonstrating the state in which the 1st optical filter unit shown in FIG. 2 was integrated in the holding frame member. It is a figure for demonstrating the relationship between the state of the 1st optical filter holding member shown in FIG. 6, and a 1st stopper. It is a figure for demonstrating the relationship between the state of the 1st optical filter holding member shown in FIG. 6, and a 2nd stopper. It is a figure for demonstrating the detection operation of the 3rd detection switch shown in FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating arrangement | positioning of the motor shown in FIG. 3, a worm | warm, and a gear. It is a figure for demonstrating the 2nd optical filter unit shown in FIG. It is a perspective view for demonstrating the structure of the 1st drive unit shown in FIG. 2, and a 2nd drive unit. It is sectional drawing which shows the state which cut | disconnected the optical member switching apparatus shown in FIG. 2 by the plane extended in an up-down direction through an optical axis. It is a front view which shows arrangement | positioning of a lens mount in the camera shown in FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating arrangement | positioning of the contact terminal unit of a lens mount shown in FIG. 14, and a connection with a flexible cable. It is a figure for demonstrating arrangement | positioning of the image pick-up element unit shown in FIG.

  Hereinafter, an example of an optical member switching device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the subject side is referred to as the front or front side in the optical axis direction of the imaging apparatus which is one of the optical devices, and the photographer side is referred to as the rear or back side. In addition, in the vertical and horizontal directions, the state in which the imaging device in the normal position is viewed from the front is used as a reference.

  FIG. 1 is a view for explaining an example of an imaging device provided with the optical member switching device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the imaging device in the normal position as viewed from the front upper right, and FIG. 1B is an exploded front view of the internal structure of the imaging device shown in FIG. It is a perspective view shown. In FIG. 1A, the outline of the imaging device is indicated by a broken line, and the internal structure is indicated by a solid line.

  The imaging device is, for example, a digital camera (hereinafter simply referred to as a camera), and includes a lens mount 400, an imaging element unit 300, a fixing unit 200, a control substrate 600, and an optical member switching device 500.

  The lens mount 400 is disposed on the front of the camera, and detachably holds an interchangeable lens unit (hereinafter simply referred to as an interchangeable lens: not shown). The lens mount 400 is provided with a contact terminal unit 410 electrically connected to the contact of the interchangeable lens.

  The imaging element unit 300 has an imaging element substrate 320 on which the imaging element 310 and the imaging element 310 are mounted. Then, an optical image is formed on the imaging surface 311 of the imaging element 310 from the interchangeable lens. The imaging element 310 outputs an image signal corresponding to the optical image formed on the imaging surface 311 to the control substrate 600. Here, the optical axis center of the interchangeable lens is indicated by the optical axis R.

  The control substrate 600 is electrically connected to the imaging device unit 300, the optical member switching device 500, and the contact terminal unit 410, and performs operation control of the camera 100 by mutually transmitting and receiving control signals and the like.

  The fixing unit 200 is a member that connects the lens mount 400 fixed to the front surface of the camera 100 and the imaging device unit 300. Further, in the fixing unit 200, the optical member switching device 500 is fixed between the lens mount 400 and the imaging device unit 300.

  FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the optical member switching device shown in FIG. 1 from the front.

  The optical member switching device 500 includes a frame-shaped holding frame member (holding member) 510, a first drive unit (moving mechanism) 520, a second drive unit 530, a first optical filter unit 540, and a second optical unit. A filter unit 550 is provided.

  FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing an example of the first drive unit shown in FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the first drive unit as viewed from the front of the camera, and FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the first drive unit as viewed from the back of the camera.

  The first drive unit 520 has a first holding plate 521 formed of a rigid and rigid sheet metal, and the other holding parts are held by the first holding plate 521. The first holding plate 521 is formed with a first opening 521 a for guiding an optical image having passed through the interchangeable lens to a subsequent stage.

  A first substrate 522 is attached to the first holding plate 521, the first substrate 522 is electrically connected to the control substrate 600, and the first drive unit 520 is controlled by the first substrate 522. Be done. The first substrate 522 is provided with first and second motors (drive units) 523a and 523b, and first to fourth detection switches (detection units) S1 to S4. The first and second motors 523a and 523b convert the power supplied from the control board 600 into motive power.

  In the first and second motors 523a and 523b, worms A0 and B0 are attached to their shafts, respectively. Then, the worm A0 meshes with the gear A1, and furthermore, the gears A1 to A5 are sequentially linked (linked). Thus, the power of the first motor 523a is transmitted to the gear A5. Similarly, the gears B1 to B5 are sequentially connected to the worm B0, and the power of the second motor 523b is transmitted to the gear B5.

  FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a connection portion between a worm and a gear in the first motor shown in FIG.

  The first motor 523a is attached to the first bent portion 521b formed on the first holding plate 521 so that the main surface of the first holding plate 521 and the rotation axis of the first motor 523a are parallel to each other. Be The first holding plate 521 is disposed in the direction in which the main plane intersects (crosses) the optical axis R, and the rotation axis of the first motor 523a extends in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis R.

  The first pressing plate 527 is for suppressing backlash in the thrust direction of the rotation shaft of the first motor 523a. Then, the first pressing plate 527 is fixed to the first gear cover 525 (not shown in FIG. 4). The first pressing plate 527 suppresses backlash in the thrust direction of the rotation shaft with an appropriate elastic force without applying a force more than necessary to the rotation shaft of the first motor 523a. Preferably, a thin metal plate is used as the first pressing plate 527 as a spring.

  The gear A1 is a two-step gear having a worm wheel portion A1a to which power from the worm A0 is transmitted and a spur gear portion A1b formed of spur gears. As shown in FIG. 4, in the process of power transmission from the worm A0 to the gear A1, rotational movement with the vertical axis as the rotational axis is converted to rotational movement with the axis in the optical axis R direction as the rotational axis.

  The first motor 523a is longer in the rotational axis direction than in the radial direction, including the mounting portion of the worm A0. Therefore, as described above, the optical member switching device 500 itself can be thinned in the optical axis R direction by arranging the first motor 523a such that the rotation axis is in the vertical direction. Furthermore, by using the worm mechanism, the deceleration is increased between the worm A0 and the gear A1, and a large output torque is transmitted to the subsequent gear.

  The gears A2 to A5 are spur gears, and the gear A5 which is the final gear is rotated (rotated) about an axis parallel to the optical axis R in the same manner as the gear A1, and a first optical filter holding member described later Drive.

  The advancing angle of the worm gear mechanism is set so that transmission of power does not occur from the worm wheel portion A1a side to the worm A0 side. As described above, by providing the self-locking structure, it is possible to prevent the reverse rotation of the first optical filter holding member on the driven side due to its own weight.

  As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the first motor 523a, the worm A0, and the gears A1 to A5 and the second motor 523b, the worm B0, and the gears B1 to B5 are the same components. And are disposed to face each other with the optical axis R interposed therebetween. For example, with respect to a line segment extending in the vertical direction through the optical axis R, it is line symmetrical when viewed from the front.

  As shown in FIG. 3 (a), the first gear cover 525 mainly covers the first and second motors 523a and 523b, the worms A0 and B0, and the gears A1 to A3 and B1 to B3. It is attached to the first holding plate 521 from the front. Also, the first inner cover 526 is mainly attached from the back to the first holding plate 521 so as to cover the holes on the sheet metal deployment accompanying the formation of the first and second bent portions 521b and 521c.

  In this manner, covering the gear group from the front and back surfaces can suppress the risk of the grease applied to the gear group scattering to the outside of the first drive unit 520.

  The first inner cover 526 is formed of a thin metal plate, and spring-like first and second arm portions 526a and 526b extend from the first inner cover 526. The first and second arms 526a and 526b abut on first and second shaft abutment portions 545a1 and 545b1 of metal guide shafts 545a and 545b described later. The first and second arms 526a and 526b are electrically connected to the first and second optical filters 542 and 544 through the first and second optical filter holding members 541 and 543, respectively. Remove static electricity generated on the surface of

  FIG. 5 is a perspective view for explaining the first and second optical filter holding members and the first and second optical filters provided in the optical member switching device shown in FIG. 5 (a) is an exploded perspective view showing the first optical filter holding member and the first optical filter, and FIG. 5 (b) is a second optical filter holding member and the second optical filter. It is a perspective view which disassembles and shows.

  The illustrated first and second optical filters 542 and 544 are, for example, a transparent filter and an ND filter for adjusting the amount of light. The first optical filter 542 is a transparent glass filter having a visible light transmittance of about 100%, and the second optical filter 544 is an ND glass filter having a visible light transmittance of about 1.6%.

  The first optical filter holding member 541 is formed of a conductive resin, and is provided with a substantially rectangular first filter frame 541 a for holding the first optical filter 542. The first optical filter 542 is fitted in the first filter frame 541a, is held by the first filter pressing member 548 formed of a thin metal plate, and is fixed and held in the first filter frame 541a. .

  Similarly, the second optical filter holding member 543 is provided with a rectangular second filter frame portion 543 a for holding the second optical filter 544. The second optical filter 544 is fitted into the second filter frame portion 543a, sandwiched by the second filter pressing member 549, and fixedly held by the second filter frame portion 543a.

  When the first and second optical filters 542 and 544 are fixed to the first and second filter frame portions 541a and 543a, bonding with a conductive double-sided tape or fastening with a screw is used.

  The first optical filter holding member 541 is provided with a first rack gear 541 b extending downward on the outer side of the short side portion (side portion in the short direction) of the first filter frame portion 541 a. The first rack gear 541 b is connected to the gear A 5 as described later, and power is transmitted from the first motor 523 a.

  Since the stroke for operating the first optical filter holding member 541 needs to be secured, the length of the first rack gear 541 b is set slightly longer than the length of the short side of the first filter frame 541 a. .

  The second optical filter holding member 543 is provided with a second rack gear 543 b extending upward on the outside of the short side portion of the second filter frame 543 a. The second rack gear 543 b is connected to the gear B 5 as described later, and power is transmitted from the second motor 523 b.

  In the first optical filter holding member 541, a first sliding hole 541c is formed between the first rack gear 541b and the first filter frame 541a. The first sliding hole 541 c secures its fitting length using the length of the first rack gear 541 b. Further, the first slide hole 541 c and the first engagement portion 541 d are formed on the operation plane of the first optical filter holding member 541 and are respectively engaged with guide shafts described later.

  As described above, the first sliding hole 541 c that regulates the operation direction of the first optical filter holding member 541 is formed between the first rack gear 541 b and the first filter frame portion 541 a, and The fitting length of the rack gear 541b is set to be long. As a result, it is possible to reduce the thickness and to operate stably. The second sliding hole 543 c and the second engaging portion 543 d formed in the second optical filter holding member 543 are the same as the first sliding hole 541 c and the first engaging portion 541 d described above. It is.

  FIG. 6 is a front view for explaining a state in which the first optical filter unit shown in FIG. 2 is incorporated in the holding frame member. 6 (a) is a front view showing a first stop state, and FIG. 6 (b) is a front view showing a second stop state. Moreover, FIG.6 (c) is a front view which shows a 3rd stop state.

  The first optical filter unit 540 includes a first optical filter 542 and a second optical filter 544 which are one of the optical members. The first and second optical filters 542 and 544 are the same in material and shape but have different light transmittances. The first optical filter 542 is held by a first optical filter holding member 541. The second optical filter 544 is held by a second optical filter holding member 543.

  In the first optical filter holding member (supporting member) 541, the first slide hole 541c slidably engages with the first guide shaft 545a, and the first engagement portion 541d forms the second guide. It slidably engages with the shaft 545a. In the second optical filter holding member 543, the second sliding hole 543c slidably engages with the second guide shaft 545b, and the second engaging portion 543d and the first guide shaft 545a. Engage slidably. Since the first and second optical filter holding members 541 and 543 slide on the common two guide shafts, the number of parts can be reduced while downsizing.

  The first and second guide shafts 545a and 545b are fixed to the holding frame member 510. Power is transmitted to the first and second optical filter holding members 541 and 543 from the motor via the first and second rack gears 541 b and 543 b, respectively. Thereby, the first and second guide shafts 545a and 545b move along the two guide axes.

  The first and second guide axes 545a and 545b are arranged in parallel in the same plane orthogonal to the optical axis R. The first and second optical filters 542 and 544 are held by the first and second optical filter holding members 541 and 543 so as to be located in the same plane orthogonal to the optical axis R.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the first sliding hole 541 c and the first engaging portion 541 d are formed on the operation plane of the first optical filter holding member 541. Since the paired components in the first optical filter unit 540 are arranged on the same plane, the first optical filter unit 540 can be thinned. As a result, the entire optical member switching device 500 can be thinned.

  Here, the operation of the first optical filter unit 540 will be described.

  By moving the first and second optical filter holding members 541 and 543 along the two guide axes, three stop states shown in FIGS. 6 (a) to 6 (c) can be taken. A region G indicates a region where an optical image incident from an interchangeable lens (not shown) and forming an image on the imaging surface 311 passes through a plane on which the first and second optical filters 542 and 544 are located.

  In the state shown in FIG. 6A, the first optical filter 542 is located on the upper side of the area G, and the second optical filter 544 is located on the lower side of the area G. The fact that each optical filter and the optical filter holding member do not overlap with the area G is hereinafter referred to as retraction. At this time, the first optical filter unit 540 does not change the optical characteristics of the incident light.

  In the state shown in FIG. 6B, the first optical filter 542 overlaps the area G, and the second optical filter 544 is retracted below the area G. Hereinafter, the position where each optical filter and the optical filter holding member overlap the area G is referred to as insertion. At this time, the optical characteristic of the incident light beam is changed according to the characteristic of the first optical filter 542. In the illustrated example, the first optical filter 542 is a transparent glass filter, so the amount of light does not change.

  In the state shown in FIG. 6C, the first optical filter 542 retracts to the upper side of the area G, and the second optical filter 544 is inserted in the area G. At this time, the optical characteristics of the incident light beam are changed according to the characteristics of the second optical filter 544. In the illustrated example, since the second optical filter 544 is an ND glass filter having a transmittance of 1.6%, the amount of incident light is reduced to about 1/64.

  The first and second optical filter holding members 541 and 543 are first to fourth stopper members slidably held by the two guide shafts in each of the first to third stopped states (hereinafter referred to simply as Contact with stoppers 546a to 46d.

  When the first optical filter holding member 541 is positioned at the upper retracted position, the first optical filter holding member 541 abuts on the first stopper 546a disposed on the front upper right side. First to fourth stoppers are positioned in the vicinity of the first to fourth detection switches.

  FIG. 7 is a view for explaining the relationship between the state of the first optical filter holding member shown in FIG. 6 and the first stopper. FIG. 7A is a view showing the first stopper in a state where the first optical filter holding member is not at the upper retracted position. FIG. 7B is a view showing the first stopper in the state where the first optical filter holding member is at the upper retracted position.

  The position of the first stopper 546a shown in FIG. 7A is, for example, the position in the state shown in FIG. 7B. The position of the first stopper 546a shown in FIG. 7 (b) is, for example, the position in FIG. 6 (a) or 6 (c).

  The first spring 547a engages with the first guide shaft 545a and is disposed between the holding frame member 510 and the first stopper 546a. In the state shown in FIG. 7A, the first spring 547a applies a biasing force to the lower side so that the first stopper 546a abuts on the first hooking portion 511a of the holding frame member 510. Thus, the first stopper 546a is fixed to the first spring 547a and the first hooking portion 511a in a state of being sandwiched from above and below.

  From the state shown in FIG. 7A, the gear group provided in the first drive unit 520 is rotated to move the first optical filter holding member 541 upward, and the state shown in FIG. 7B. At this time, the rotation of the gear group stops and the first optical filter holding member 541 stops. In the state shown in FIG. 7B, the first optical filter holding member 541 pushes the first stopper 546a upward with respect to the state shown in FIG. 7A and abuts on the first stopper 546a.

  The contact between the first optical filter holding member 541 and the first stopper (buffer member) 546a is the peripheral edge of the first guide shaft 545a. At this time, the biasing force of the first spring 547a is transmitted through the first stopper 546a, and the first optical filter holding member 541 receives a downward force. However, in the state shown in FIG. 7B, the gear group provided in the first drive unit 520 is engaged and stopped so as to move the first optical filter holding member 541 upward. Therefore, the first optical filter holding member 541 does not move downward without the gear group rotating in the reverse direction by the self-locking action (that is, the blocking mechanism).

  As a result, the first optical filter holding member 541 is sandwiched between the first spring 547a which exerts a downward force and the gear group of the first drive unit 520 which performs the self-locking action, as shown in FIG. 7 (b). It can be completely stopped without rattling in the condition shown in.

  When the first optical filter holding member 541 is in the inserted state, the first optical filter holding member 541 abuts on the second stopper 546b disposed on the lower right side of the front.

  FIG. 8 is a view for explaining the relationship between the state of the first optical filter holding member shown in FIG. 6 and the second stopper. And Fig.8 (a) is a figure which shows the 2nd stopper in the state in which the 1st optical filter holding member is not inserted. FIG. 8B is a view showing the second stopper in a state in which the first optical filter holding member is inserted.

  The second spring 547b engages with the first guide shaft 545a and is disposed between the holding frame member 510 and the second stopper 546b. In the state shown in FIG. 8A, the second spring 547b applies an urging force to the upper side so that the second stopper 546b abuts on the second hooking portion 511b of the holding frame member 510. The second stopper 546b is fixed to the second hook portion 511b and the second spring 547b so as to be vertically sandwiched.

  From the state shown in FIG. 8A, the gear group provided in the first drive unit 520 is rotated to move the first optical filter holding member 541 downward, and the state shown in FIG. 8B. At this time, the rotation of the gear group stops and the first optical filter holding member 541 stops.

  In the state shown in FIG. 8B, the first optical filter holding member 541 pushes the second stopper 546b downward to be in contact with the state shown in FIG. 8B. The contact between the first optical filter holding member 541 and the second stopper 546b is at a position farther from the optical axis R than the first guide shaft 545a. Even in the state shown in FIG. 8B in which the first optical filter holding member 541 is moved to the lowermost side, the first optical filter holding member 541 and the second optical filter holding member 541 are formed at the periphery of the first guide shaft 545a. The stopper 546b does not abut on, and there is a gap between the two.

  The presence of the gap at all times allows the second engagement portion 543d to engage with the first guide shaft 545a without colliding with the first optical filter holding member 541. Further, as in the state shown in FIG. 7 (b), the self-locking action and the biasing force of the second spring 547 b act on the first optical filter holding member 541, and the first optical filter holding member 541 is Can be completely stopped without rattling in the state shown in FIG.

  The position of the filter frame portion and the rack gear of the second optical filter holding member 543 is substantially the same as the first optical filter holding member 541 in the up-down direction. Therefore, in the second optical filter holding member 543, the relationship between the second guide shaft 545b and the third and fourth stoppers 546c and 546d, which are related parts in the stopped state, in the first optical filter holding member 541. It has a positional relationship that is upside down with the part.

  That is, the third stopper 546c and the fourth stopper 546d play the same role as the second stopper 546b and the second stopper 546b, respectively. Further, the first engaging portion 541 d of the first optical filter holding member 541 engages with the second guide shaft 545 b in the gap between the second optical filter holding member 543 and the fourth stopper 546 d.

  Here, position detection of the first and second optical filter holding members will be described.

  As described above, the first drive unit 520 includes the first to fourth detection switches S1 to S4. The first to fourth detection switches S1 to S4 are used when determining the stop positions of the first and second optical filter holding members.

  The first to fourth detection switches S1 to S4 are arranged as shown in FIG. The first detection switch S1 is disposed on the upper right side when viewed from the front, and detects the first optical filter holding member 541 when the first optical filter holding member 541 is in the upper retracted position. The second detection switch S2 is disposed on the lower right side when viewed from the front, and detects the first optical filter holding member 541 when the first optical filter holding member 541 is in the insertion position.

  The third detection switch S3 is disposed on the lower left side when viewed from the front, and detects the second optical filter holding member 543 when the second optical filter holding member 543 is in the lower retracted position. The fourth detection switch S4 is disposed on the upper left side from the front, and detects the second optical filter holding member 543 when the second optical filter holding member 543 is in the insertion position.

  Therefore, in the stopped state of the first and second optical filter holding members shown in FIG. 6A, the first and second optical filter holding members are detected by the first and third detection switches S1 and S3. Ru. In the stopped state of the first and second optical filter holding members shown in FIG. 6 (b), the first and second optical filter holding members are detected by the second and third detection switches S2 and S3. In the stop state of the first and second optical filter holding members shown in FIG. 6C, the first and second optical filter holding members are detected by the first and second detection switches S1 and S4.

  Thus, the positions of the first and second optical filter holding members can be determined by the detection results of the first to fourth detection switches S1 to S4.

  Here, the specific operation of the detection switch will be described by taking the third detection switch S3 as an example.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the detection operation of the third detection switch shown in FIG. FIG. 9A is a view showing the detection state by the third detection switch from the left side, with the second optical filter holding member in the lower retracted position. FIG. 9B is a left side view showing a state where the second optical filter holding member is at the insertion position and the detection by the third detection switch is not performed.

  In a state where the second optical filter holding member 543 is in the lower retracted position, the third detection movable portion S3a provided in the third detection switch S3 is pushed toward the first substrate 522 side. On the other hand, when the second optical filter holding member 543 is in the insertion position, the third detection movable portion S3a is not pushed toward the first substrate 522 side.

  When the third detection movable portion S3a is pushed toward the first substrate 522 as shown in FIG. 9A, the connection state of the circuit contact of the third detection switch S3 changes. Thus, the position of the second optical filter holding member 543 can be determined in accordance with the circuit contact point of the third detection switch S3.

  Also in the first, second, and fourth detection switches S1, S2, and S4, the same detection operation as the detection operation by the third detection switch S3 is performed.

  FIG. 10 is a view for explaining the arrangement of the motor, the worm and the gear shown in FIG. 10 (a) is a front view, and FIG. 10 (b) is a perspective view. 10 (a) shows the arrangement as viewed from the front, and FIG. 10 (b) shows the arrangement in the optical axis R direction.

  The gear A5 is connected to a first rack gear 541b disposed on the side of the first optical filter holding member 541. The gear A5 and the gear A4 connected to the gear A5 have substantially the same thickness in the direction of the optical axis R as the first optical filter holding member 541. The gears A5 and A4 are disposed on the same plane as the plane formed by the first optical filter holding member 541 and the first optical filter 542.

  The gear A3 is connected to the gear A4 in the plane formed by the first optical filter 542 and has a thickness so as to project forward in the direction of the optical axis R from the plane formed by the first optical filter 542. The gear A2 is connected to the spur gear portion A1b of the gear A1 on the front side of the plane formed by the first optical filter 542. The gear A2 is disposed closer to the optical axis R in the left-right direction than the gear A3.

  In the gear A1, the spur gear portion A1b is connected to the gear A2 on the front side of the plane formed by the first optical filter 542. The gear A1 is disposed at a position closer to the optical axis R in the left-right direction than the gear A2. Further, the gear A1 is disposed to overlap with the lower retracted position of the second optical filter 544.

  As described above, by overlapping the gear A <b> 1 with the retracted position, it is possible to reduce the size of the optical member switching device 500 by reducing the projection area when viewed from the front direction. Further, as shown in FIG. 10A, the gears A1 to A5 are arranged on the lower side in this order. Furthermore, by arranging all the gears A1 to A5 below the optical axis R, the optical member switching device 500 can be miniaturized.

  The worm A0 is connected to the worm wheel portion A1a of the gear A1 on the front side of the plane formed by the first optical filter 542. The worm wheel portion A1a of the gear A1 is disposed forward of the spur gear A1b. The worm A0 is disposed at a position closer to the optical axis R in the left-right direction than the gear A1.

  As described above, worm B0 and gears B1 to B5 are arranged so as to be line symmetrical when viewed from the front direction with respect to a line extending in the vertical direction through worm A0 and gears A1 to A5 and optical axis R. . As for the position in the direction of the optical axis R, the corresponding worms and gears are arranged in the same plane.

  In the above-described gear arrangement, the first and second rack gears 541 b and 543 b fulfill the function of moving the first and second optical filter holding members 541 and 543 up and down to a predetermined position. In order to miniaturize the first optical filter unit 540 after satisfying the function, the first and second rack gears 541 b and 543 b have the following shapes and are disposed at the next positions.

  Here, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 10A, the length of the first rack gear 541b is L1, and the length of the second rack gear 543b is L2. Further, the length by which the first rack gear 541b protrudes downward from the first filter frame portion 541a is L3, and the length by which the second rack gear 543b protrudes upward from the second filter frame portion 543a is L4. .

At this time, the following equations (1) and (2) are satisfied.
L1 L L2 (1)
L3> L4 (2)

  Furthermore, the upper end of the first rack gear 541 b is located below the center position of the first optical filter 542. The lower end of the second rack gear 543 b is below the center position of the second optical filter 544.

  When the first and second rack gears 541 b and 543 b are arranged as described above, when the gears A5 and B5 are below the optical axis R, the first optical filter unit smaller in size by satisfying the insertion and retraction operations 540 can be configured.

  As described above, the optical member switching device 500 includes the first optical filter unit 540 and the second optical filter unit 550. The second optical filter unit 550 is configured by parts having the same shape as the first optical filter unit 540.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the second optical filter unit shown in FIG. 11 (a) is a perspective view showing the second optical filter unit in an exploded manner from the front, and FIG. 11 (b) is a top view showing the arrangement of the guide shafts shown in FIG. 11 (a). 11 (c) is an enlarged view of the sliding portion of the guide shaft shown in FIG. 11 (b).

  The second optical filter unit 550 has a 180 degree rotational symmetry with respect to the holding frame member 510 that is reversed in the front-rear direction with the first optical filter unit 540. The third optical filter holding member 551 holding the third optical filter 552 has the same shape as the first optical filter holding member 541. Then, the first optical filter holding member 541 is assembled to the third optical filter holding member 551 in the direction in which the first optical filter holding member 541 is reversed.

  The fourth optical filter holding member 553 holding the fourth optical filter 554 has the same shape as the second optical filter holding member 543. Then, the second optical filter holding member 543 is assembled to the fourth optical filter holding member 553 in the direction in which the front and rear are reversed. The optical filters held by all of the optical filter holding members have the same shape.

  The fifth to eighth stoppers 556a to 556d correspond to the first to fourth stoppers 546a to 546d in this order, and have the same shape, and are assembled at rotationally symmetrical positions and postures.

  The third and fourth optical filter holding members 551 and 553 are third and fourth so that the first and second optical filter holding members 541 and 543 slide on the first and second guide shafts 545a and 545b. Slide the four guide shafts 555a and 555b.

  Here, the distances in the left-right direction from the optical axis R to the centers of the guide axes are D1 to D4 as shown in FIG. In the first optical filter holding member 541, the first sliding hole 541c and the first engaging portion 541d are defined so that the distance D2 is longer than the distance D1.

  Since the first and third optical filter holding members 541 and 543 have rotational symmetry and the same shape, the distances D1 and D3 have the same length, and similarly, the distances D2 and D4 have the same length. It is. Since the distance D1 is different from the distance D2 in length, the first optical filter holding member 541 and the third optical filter holding member 543 can be disposed close to each other in the optical axis direction.

  Since the positions of the first and third guide shafts 545a and 555a in the left-right direction are different, after securing the thickness of the optical filter holding member holding both the guide shafts, the area where the both guide shafts overlap in the optical axis It can be as close as possible. Such features of the optical filter holding member can make the optical member switching device 500 thinner.

  FIG. 12 is a perspective view for describing the configuration of the first drive unit and the second drive unit shown in FIG.

  The second drive unit 530 that drives the third and fourth optical filter holding members 551 and 553 is configured with the same components as the first drive unit 520. The second drive unit 530 is assembled such that the first drive unit 520 is in a rotationally symmetrical position in which the first drive unit 520 is turned back and forth with respect to the holding frame member 510. The second drive unit 530 is configured such that the second holding plate 531 holds other components. In addition, a second opening 531a is formed in the second holding plate 531, and the optical image that has passed through the interchangeable lens is guided to the subsequent stage through the second opening 531a.

  FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the optical member switching device shown in FIG. 2 is cut along a plane extending in the vertical direction through the optical axis. FIG. 13 (a) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the optical filter is not inserted in the light path, and FIG. 13 (b) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the first optical filter is inserted in the light path. FIG. 13 (c) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the fourth optical filter is inserted in the light path, and FIG. 13 (d) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the third optical filter is inserted in the light path. is there. Further, FIG. 13E is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the second optical filter is inserted in the optical path. In addition, FIG. 13 (f) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the second and fourth optical filters are inserted in the light path, and FIG. 13 (g) is a state in which the second and third optical filters are inserted. FIG.

  Switching of optical filters will be described with reference to FIG. In the camera 100, an optical image incident from the interchangeable lens reaches the optical member switching device 500. Then, the light passes through the first and second openings 521 a and 531 a and is incident on the imaging element 310 disposed in the subsequent stage. The optical member switching device 500 inserts an optical filter, which is an optical member, in the light path between the first opening 521 a and the second opening 531 a to change the characteristics of the optical image (incident light beam).

  The aforementioned first to fourth optical filters are optical filters for adjusting the light quantity of incident light. The first optical filter 542 is a transparent filter having a visible light transmittance of about 100%. The second optical filter 544 is an ND filter having a visible light transmittance of about 1.6% for reducing the amount of light by six steps (note that one step means half).

  The third optical filter 552 is an ND filter having a visible light transmittance of about 6.3% for reducing the light quantity by four steps. The fourth optical filter 554 is an ND filter having a visible light transmittance of about 25% for reducing the light quantity by two steps.

  Therefore, in the state shown in FIG. 13B, since the first optical filter is inserted in the optical path, the optical image passes without changing the transmittance. Further, in the state shown in FIG. 13C, since the fourth optical filter 554 is inserted in the light path, the light quantity is reduced by two steps and the optical image is transmitted.

  In the state shown in FIG. 13D, since the third optical filter 552 is inserted in the optical path, the light quantity is reduced by four steps and the optical image is transmitted. In the state shown in FIG. 13E, since the second optical filter 544 is inserted in the optical path, the light quantity is reduced by six steps and the optical image is transmitted.

  In the states shown in FIGS. 13 (b) to 13 (e), the optical member switching device 500 inserts one optical filter in the optical path, and reduces the light in 0, 2, 4, and 6 steps. Selectively. At this time, one optical filter of the same thickness and material is inserted into the optical path, and the optical path length from the first opening 521 a to the second opening 531 a does not change.

  In the state shown in FIG. 13F, since the second and fourth optical filters 544 and 554 are inserted in the optical path, the light quantity is reduced by eight steps, and the optical image is transmitted. In the state shown in FIG. 13G, since the second and third optical filters 544 and 552 are inserted in the optical path, the light quantity is reduced by 10 steps and the optical image is transmitted.

  In the state shown in FIG. 13F and FIG. 13G, the optical member switching device 500 inserts two optical filters in the optical path to selectively perform 8 stages and 10 stages of light reduction. At this time, since the number of optical filters inserted in the optical path is different as compared with the states shown in FIGS. 13 (b) to 13 (e), the distance from the first opening 521a to the second opening 531a The optical path length is different.

  In the illustrated example, the example using the transparent filter and the ND filter as the first to fourth optical filters has been described. On the other hand, an IR cut filter, a low pass filter, a polarization filter, or a color correction filter may be used as the first to fourth optical filters, or these optical members may be used in combination.

  Here, the layout of parts around the optical member switching device 500 in the camera 100 will be described.

  FIG. 14 is a front view showing the arrangement of lens mounts in the camera shown in FIG.

  In the first drive unit 520, the first and second motors 523a and 523b, the worms A0 and B0, and the gears A1 to A2 and B1 to 2 are disposed forward of the surface of the first holding plate 521. Gears A3 and B3 partially extend forward of the surface of the first holding plate 521.

  Since these motors, worms, and gears are intensively arranged on the lower side with respect to the optical axis R, the lens mount 400 can be placed on the projection of the optical axis R, and these motors, worms, and gears and Can be placed in Therefore, lens mount 400 can be arranged such that at least a portion thereof overlaps with first and second motors 523a and 523b, worms A0 and B0, gears A1 to 3 and B1 to 3 in the optical axis R direction. .

  FIG. 15 is a view for explaining the arrangement of the contact terminal unit of the lens mount shown in FIG. 14 and the connection with the flexible cable. And Fig.15 (a) is a right side view, and FIG.15 (b) is the perspective view which looked at the front from upper direction. Moreover, FIG.15 (c) is the perspective view which looked at the back from lower direction.

  The contact terminal unit 410 and the flexible cable 420 are part of the lens mount 400. The contact terminal unit 410 is located rearward in the lens mount 400. As shown in FIG. 15A, the contact terminal unit 410 is disposed at a position overlapping the first and second motors 523a and 523b, the worm A0, and the gear A1 in the optical axis R direction.

  By the arrangement of the motor, the worm, and the gear as described above, the lens mount 400 itself does not have to be arranged forward of the first drive unit 520, and can be arranged close to the optical member switching device 500. As a result, thinning of the camera 100 can be achieved.

  The flexible cable 420 is for connecting the contact terminal unit 410 and the control substrate 600. There is a gap between the first and second motors 523a and 523b, and the flexible cable 420 is connected to the control substrate 600 on the back side through the gap. Specifically, the flexible cable 420 extends downward from the contact terminal unit 410, and passes between the first and second motors 523a and 523b to communicate from the bottom of the optical member switching device 500 to the back side. The flexible cable 420 extending to the back is connected to the connector 610 disposed at the lower part of the control board 600.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining the arrangement of the imaging element unit shown in FIG. And Fig.16 (a) is a right view, FIG.16 (b) is a rear view.

  The second drive unit 530 is composed of the same parts as the first drive unit 520 disposed forward, and the motor, the worm, and the gear with respect to the optical axis R are similar to the first drive unit 420. Centrally located below. Therefore, as a result of the space above the motor, the worm and the gear, the imaging device unit 300 can be arranged to overlap the motor, the worm and the gear in the direction of the optical axis R.

  Specifically, the imaging element unit 300 is disposed at a position where the third and fourth motors 533a and 533b, the worms C0 and D0, and the gears A1 and B1 do not overlap on the projection of the optical axis R. The imaging device unit 300 is at the same position as these components on the optical axis R. The gears C2 to 3 and D2 to 3 are disposed in front of the imaging element substrate 320.

  As described above, by arranging the image pickup device unit 300 in proximity to the optical member switching device 500, it is possible to make the camera 100 thinner.

  In the above-described embodiment, the optical member switching device has been described as a component of the camera. However, the optical member switching device may be used as a component of the lens unit.

  As described above, in the embodiment of the present invention, according to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the thickness of an optical member switching device having a plurality of optical members.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated based on embodiment, this invention is not limited to these embodiment, The various form of the range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention is also included in this invention .

500 optical member switching device 510 holding frame member 520 first drive unit 523a, 523b motor 530 second drive unit 540, 543, 551, 553 optical filter holding member 542, 544, 552, 554 optics Filter 600 Control board 610 connector

Claims (20)

An optical member switching device comprising: at least a first optical member and a second optical member, wherein the optical member switching device selectively switches an optical member to be inserted into an optical path formed in an optical device,
Each of the first optical member and the second optical member is disposed in the same plane intersecting the optical axis of the optical path,
A first moving mechanism which moves the first optical member in a direction crossing the optical axis to insert the first optical member into the optical path or retract the first optical member from the optical path;
Moving the second optical member in a direction crossing the optical axis to insert the second optical member into the optical path or retract the optical member from the optical path;
The first moving mechanism and the second moving mechanism are disposed across the optical path, and the direction in which the first optical member retracts from the optical path and the direction in which the second optical member retracts from the optical path An optical member switching device characterized in that they face each other. A first holding member for holding the first optical member;
A second holding member for holding the second optical member;
A first moving mechanism for moving the first holding member in a direction crossing the optical axis to insert the first optical member into the optical path or retract the first optical member from the optical path;
Moving the second holding member in a direction intersecting the optical axis to insert or retract the second optical member into or from the optical path;
The first holding member is provided with a first connection portion extending outward in the moving direction of the first holding member and in a direction in which the first optical member is inserted into the optical path. ,
The second holding member is provided with a second connection portion extending outward in the moving direction of the second holding member and in a direction in which the first optical member is inserted into the optical path. ,
The optical member switching device according to claim 1, wherein the first moving mechanism is connected to the first connection portion, and the second moving mechanism is connected to the second connection portion. . Each of the first connection and the second connection is a rack gear,
The first moving mechanism and the second moving mechanism respectively rotate on the same plane as the first holding member and the second holding member and are connected to the first connection portion and the second connection portion. A first gear and a second gear;
A third gear and a fourth gear that are interlocked with the first gear and the second gear, and protrude in the direction of the optical axis from the first holding member and the second holding member;
In conjunction with the third gear and the fourth gear, the third gear and the fourth gear on the projection of the optical axis in a state where the first optical member and the second optical member are retracted from the light path. Fifth gear and sixth gear which are located on the side of the protrusion in the direction of the optical axis with respect to the fourth gear and at least a part of which overlaps with the first holding member and the second holding member. When,
A first drive unit and a second drive unit for rotating the fifth gear and the sixth gear;
The optical member switching device according to claim 2, characterized in that: Each of the fifth gear and the sixth gear comprises a worm wheel portion,
Each of the first drive unit and the second drive unit includes a motor and a worm attached to a rotation shaft of the motor,
4. The optical member switching apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising a blocking mechanism that blocks the rotation of the worm wheel and the worm when the motor is stopped. And a third optical member and a fourth optical member disposed in different planes in the direction of the optical axis with respect to the first optical member and the second optical member,
The direction in which the third optical member retracts from the optical path is opposite to the direction in which the fourth optical member retracts from the optical path,
The plane on which the first optical member and the second optical member retract are parallel to the plane on which the third optical member and the fourth optical member retract.
The retracted position of the first optical member and the retracted position of the third optical member are in overlapping positions on the projection of the optical axis,
The optical member switching device according to claim 1, wherein the retracted position of the second optical member and the retracted position of the fourth optical member overlap on the projection of the optical axis. The first to fourth optical members have different transmittances, respectively.
At least two of the first to fourth optical members are inserted into the optical path to adjust the light amount with a transmittance different from the transmittance of the first to fourth optical members. Item 6. The optical member switching device according to item 5. A first holding member for holding the first optical member;
A second holding member for holding the second optical member;
First and second guide axes extending parallel to each other across the optical axis and sandwiching the optical axis;
A support member for supporting the first guide shaft and the second guide shaft;
A first moving mechanism for moving the first holding member along the first guide shaft and the second guide shaft to insert the first optical member into the light path or retract the first optical member from the light path; ,
A second moving mechanism for moving the second holding member along the first guide shaft and the second guide shaft to insert the second optical member into the light path or retract the second optical member from the light path; And have
The direction in which the first holding member and the second holding member are slidably engaged with the first guide shaft and the second guide shaft is restricted. The optical member switching device according to 1. A first buffer member held in engagement with the first guide shaft;
And a second buffer member held in engagement with the second guide shaft,
A gap is defined between the first holding member and the first buffer member at the periphery of the first guide shaft, and the second holding member engages with the first guide shaft in the gap. And the first holding member and the first buffer member at a position farther from the optical axis than the position of the first guide shaft in a state in which the first optical member is inserted into the optical path. Abut,
A gap is defined between the second holding member and the second buffer member at the periphery of the second guide shaft, and the first holding member engages with the second guide shaft in the gap. And the second holding member and the second buffer member at a position farther from the optical axis than the position of the second guide shaft in a state in which the second holding member is inserted into the optical path. The optical member switching device according to claim 7, wherein the optical member switching device abuts. A first spring engaged with the first guide shaft and disposed between the first buffer member and the support member;
A second spring engaged with the second guide shaft and disposed between the second buffer member and the support member;
The first spring exerts a biasing force in a direction in which the first optical member retracts from the optical path via the first buffer member in a state where the first optical member is inserted into the optical path. ,
The second spring exerts an urging force in a direction in which the second optical member retracts from the light path via the second buffer member in a state where the second optical member is inserted into the light path. The optical member switching device according to claim 8, characterized in that: A third buffer member held in engagement with the first guide shaft;
A fourth buffer member engaged with and held by the second guide shaft;
The first holding member and the third buffer member abut on a peripheral edge of the first guide shaft in a state where the first optical member retracts from the light path.
The second holding member and the fourth buffer member are in contact with each other at the peripheral edge of the second guide shaft in a state where the second optical member is retracted from the optical path. The optical member switching device according to 5. A third spring engaged with the first guide shaft and disposed between the third buffer member and the support member;
A fourth spring engaged with the second guide shaft and disposed between the fourth buffer member and the support member;
The third spring exerts a biasing force in a direction in which the first optical member is inserted into the optical path through the third buffer member in a state where the first optical member retracts from the optical path.
The fourth spring applies a biasing force in a direction in which the second optical member is inserted into the optical path through the fourth buffer member in a state where the second optical member retracts from the optical path. The optical member switching device according to claim 10, characterized in that: A first detection unit disposed in the vicinity of the third buffer member and detecting the first holding member when the first optical member is at a position retracted from the light path;
A second detection unit disposed in the vicinity of the first buffer member and detecting the first holding member when the first optical member is at a position inserted in the light path;
A third detection unit arranged in the vicinity of the fourth buffer member and detecting the second holding member when the second optical member is at a position retracted from the light path;
And a fourth detection unit arranged in the vicinity of the second buffer member and detecting the second holding member when the second optical member is at a position inserted in the optical path,
The first to fourth detection units are disposed on a plane intersecting the optical axis, and the first holding member and the second holding member are disposed at different positions with respect to the optical axis. The optical member switching device according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that The first optical member and the second optical member have a substantially rectangular shape,
The first moving mechanism moves the first optical member in the lateral direction of the first optical member,
The optical member switching apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the second moving mechanism moves the second optical member in the short direction of the second optical member. .   The optical member switching device according to any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein the first guide shaft and the second guide shaft are disposed on the same plane with respect to the optical axis. A first holding member for holding the first optical member;
A second holding member for holding the second optical member;
First and second guide axes extending parallel to each other across the optical axis and sandwiching the optical axis;
A third guide shaft and a fourth guide shaft extending parallel to the first guide shaft and the second guide shaft with the optical axis interposed therebetween;
A support member for supporting the first to fourth guide shafts;
A first moving mechanism for moving the first holding member along the first guide shaft and the second guide shaft to insert the first optical member into the light path or retract the first optical member from the light path; ,
A second moving mechanism for moving the second holding member along the third guide shaft and the fourth guide shaft to insert the second optical member into the light path or retract the second optical member from the light path; And have
The first holding member is restricted from moving in slidable engagement with the first and second guide shafts.
The optical member according to claim 1, wherein a direction in which the second holding member is slidably engaged with the third guide shaft and the fourth guide shaft is restricted. Switching device. The first optical member and the second optical member have the same shape, and the first holding member and the third holding member have the same shape.
The first optical member and the first holding member, and the second optical member and the second holding member intersect the optical axis so as to be rotationally symmetrical 180 degrees at a predetermined position. The optical member switching device according to claim 15, wherein an axis of A third holding member holding the third optical member;
A third holding member holding the fourth optical member;
A third moving mechanism for moving the third holding member along the first guide shaft and the second guide shaft to insert the third optical member into the light path or retract the third optical member from the light path; ,
A fourth moving mechanism for moving the fourth holding member along the third guide shaft and the fourth guide shaft to insert the fourth optical member into the light path or retract the fourth optical member from the light path; And have
The third optical member and the first optical member are disposed in a first plane intersecting the optical axis, and the fourth optical member and the second optical member intersect the optical axis. Placed in the second plane,
The third holding member is restricted from moving in slidable engagement with the first guide shaft and the second guide shaft.
The direction according to claim 15, wherein the fourth holding member is slidably engaged with the third guide shaft and the fourth guide shaft so as to be restricted from moving. Optical member switching device.   The third optical member and the third holding member, and the fourth optical member and the fourth holding member intersect the optical axis so as to be rotationally symmetrical 180 degrees at a predetermined position. The optical member switching device according to claim 17, wherein an axis of is present.   The optical member switching device according to claim 18, wherein the first axis and the second axis are the same axis. The distance from the optical axis to the first guide axis and the distance from the optical axis to the second guide axis are different,
The distance from the optical axis to the first guide axis and the distance from the optical axis to the third guide axis are the same.
The distance from the optical axis to the second guide axis and the distance from the optical axis to the fourth guide axis are the same.
At least a portion of the first guide axis and the fourth guide axis overlap in the optical axis, and the second guide axis and the third guide axis are at least at the optical axis. The optical member switching device according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein a part thereof is in an overlapping position.