JP7207987B2 - Imaging device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus having a telephoto optical system.

When shooting with an optical device (imaging device or camera) such as a digital still camera, video camera, or TV camera, confirm the subject using the LCD monitor or electronic viewfinder (EVF) laid out on the camera body. is done. In recent years, by electrically connecting the camera body to a personal computer or smartphone via a wireless connection such as Wi-Fi or a wired connection using an external connector such as USB, the display screen of an electronic device that is different from the camera body such as a smartphone can be displayed. Subject confirmation is performed using By connecting to a personal computer or smartphone, the user can take pictures by remote control while checking the display screen of the electronic device, which is different from the camera body, without holding the camera body. For remote control, it is desirable to swing the camera body vertically and horizontally to move the optical axis in a predetermined direction. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-200000 discloses a technique for moving the optical axis of a camera body to a predetermined position by moving the legs of a cradle on which the camera body is mounted. Further, Patent Literature 2 discloses a technique in which a camera-equipped mobile phone can be held at any angle by a pivoting part of a mounting table to which the camera-equipped mobile phone is attached.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-131312 JP 2006-074585 A

However, the techniques disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 relate to cradles and mounting tables that are separate from the camera body, and that assist photography as accessories separate from the camera body.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an imaging apparatus capable of freely adjusting an optical axis while suppressing an increase in size.

An imaging apparatus as one aspect of the present invention includes a main body section including a photographing optical system and an image pickup device for picking up a light flux that has passed through the photographing optical system, a connector projecting from the main body section so as to rotate freely, and the connector. a housing for housing, wherein when the connector protrudes from the main body, a first state in which the attitude of the main body can be adjusted to adjust the photographing range of the photographing optical system; and A second state in which the connector can be electrically connected to an external device can be assumed, and the angle formed between the connector and the main body when the connector is in the first state is such that the connector is in the second state. Unlike the angle formed with the main body when , the connector is electrically unconnectable to the external device when in the first state .

ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the imaging device which can adjust an optical axis freely can be provided, suppressing enlargement.

1 is a top perspective view of an imaging device according to a first embodiment; FIG. 1 is a bottom side perspective view of an imaging device according to a first embodiment; FIG. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a USB TYPE-C connector; It is a figure which shows the connection of an imaging device and EVF. It is a figure which shows the connection of an imaging device and an external device. 1 is an electrical block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a camera system; FIG. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of optical axis position adjustment of the imaging device; It is an explanatory view of the connector of the first embodiment. 4 is a connection flowchart between the imaging device and an external device; FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a connector according to a second embodiment; It is explanatory drawing of the connector of 3rd Embodiment. FIG. 11 is an external perspective view of an imaging device according to a fourth embodiment; FIG. 11 is an external perspective view of an imaging device according to a fifth embodiment; FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a connector according to a sixth embodiment; FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view showing a support structure of a connector according to a sixth embodiment; FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a support structure for a connector according to a sixth embodiment; FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a protruded state of a connector according to a sixth embodiment; FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a connector according to a seventh embodiment; FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view showing a support structure of a connector and a posture adjusting section according to a seventh embodiment; FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a support structure for a connector and a posture adjusting section according to a seventh embodiment; FIG. 20 is a bottom view showing a moving state of the connector lid of the seventh embodiment; FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a protruding state of the connector and the posture adjusting portion of the seventh embodiment; FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a connector according to an eighth embodiment; FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing a protruding state of the connector and the posture adjusting portion of the eighth embodiment;

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In each figure, the same reference numerals are given to the same members, and overlapping descriptions are omitted.
[First Embodiment]
1 and 2 are top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of an imaging device 1 of this embodiment. The imaging apparatus 1 has a camera body (body section) 50 in which an imaging optical system (photographing optical system) 501 and an imaging device (not shown) such as a CCD sensor or a CMOS sensor are built. The imaging optical system 501 is provided on the front side of the camera body 50 and forms an image of subject light on the imaging device. The imaging optical system 501 is a bifocal switching type optical system that can switch the focal length between 100 mm and 400 mm. The number of focal lengths to be switched is not limited to two, and the focal lengths are not limited to 100 mm and 400 mm. Further, in FIG. 1, the imaging optical system 501 is represented by one lens for the sake of convenience, but may be composed of a plurality of lenses.

A release switch 502 is provided on the upper surface of the camera body 50 for instructing the start of a photographing operation (imaging of a subject image). The release switch 502 has two switch positions depending on the pressing pressure of the release button. When the first stage position (SW1 ON) is detected, camera settings such as white balance and photometry are locked. Upon detection of the second stage position (SW2 ON), an operation of capturing the subject image signal is performed.

A zoom switch 503 is provided on the right side of the camera body 50 when viewed from the front. The zoom switch 503 is composed of a zoom switch 503a and a zoom switch 503b. By pressing the zoom switch 503a, the imaging optical system 501 is driven so that the focal length becomes 100 mm. By pressing the zoom switch 503b, the imaging optical system 501 is driven so that the focal length becomes 400 mm. In this embodiment, two zoom switches are provided according to the focal length of the imaging optical system 501, but the number of zoom switches can be changed according to the number of focal length switches.

A power switch 504 and a mode switch 505 are provided on the left side of the camera body 50 when viewed from the front. By pressing the power switch 504, the power of the camera body 50 can be switched between ON and OFF. By pressing the mode switch 505, the mode set in the camera body 50 can be switched. For example, the still image shooting mode and the moving image shooting mode may be switched by pressing the mode switch 505 .

A tripod hole 506 for attaching a tripod and a connector 507 for connecting an external device such as a smartphone are provided on the bottom side of the camera body 50 . The tripod hole 506 has the same configuration as that provided in optical equipment such as general digital still cameras and video cameras. In this embodiment, the connector 507 is a USB TYPE-C connector, but is not limited to this as long as it can be connected to an external device.

A USB TYPE-C connector will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a USB TYPE-C connector.

The Type-C Plug has the pinout of the USB Type-C Plug connector. The VBUS terminal supplies power to devices connected to the Type-C Plug. The CC terminal indicates to the equipment connected to the Type-C Plug whether an AC adapter is connected to the AC jack. The VCONN terminal indicates to the device connected to the Type-C Plug whether a USB device such as a USB host is connected to the Type-B Receptacle. The D+ and D- terminals are used to send and receive data to and from devices connected to the Type-C Plug.

The Type-C Receptacle has the pinout of the USB Type-C Receptacle connector. Power is received from a device connected to the Type-C Receptacle through the VBUS terminal. The CC1 terminal and the CC2 terminal are connected to GND through a pull-down resistor of the CC terminal specified by the USB Type-C standard.

A flat portion 50a is provided on the bottom surface of the camera body 50, so that the camera body 50 can be stably installed. The connector 507 is arranged in the housing portion 508 so as not to protrude from the flat portion 50a when not in use. The connector 507 rotatably protrudes from the camera body 50 during use, as will be described later.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the connection between the imaging device 1 and the EVF 150. As shown in FIG. The EVF 150 is detachably attached to the rear portion of the camera body 50 . The camera body 50 and the EVF 150 are electrically connected to each other by an EVF connector 509 provided on the rear side of the camera body 50 and a connector 151 provided on the EVF 150 . The light flux passing through the imaging optical system 501 forms an image on the imaging device, and the captured image is displayed on a built-in display (not shown) built in the EVF 150 . The user can see the image displayed on the built-in display through the eyepiece lens 153 . Therefore, the user can shoot while watching the video displayed on the built-in display. The eye contact detection unit 152 is detection means such as an eye sensor for detecting eye contact when the user looks into the EVF 150 . The built-in display is, for example, a TFT display or an organic EL display.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing connections between the imaging apparatus 1 and external devices such as mobile devices. In this embodiment, a case where the imaging device 1 is attached to a smart phone 80 as an example of an external device will be described. The EVF 150 is usually removed from the camera body 50 when the imaging apparatus 1 is used by connecting it to an external device. By connecting the connector 507 and the connector unit 801 of the smartphone 80 , it is possible to perform a photographing operation in which the imaging device 1 and the smartphone 80 are linked. When an application program corresponding to the imaging device 1 is installed in the smartphone 80, the imaging device 1 can be operated using the smartphone 80, and various imaging functions can be used. Also, by controlling the display control unit of the smartphone 80 with an application program, it is possible to display an image on the display 802 . Further, the imaging device 1 may include trimming means for cutting out an arbitrary shooting range that is smaller than the shootable range. In this case, it is possible for the trimming means to cut out a part of the image data captured by the image pickup device and electronically change the apparent focal length in accordance with an instruction from the application program. Further, by connecting the imaging device 1 and the smartphone 80 , power can be supplied from the smartphone 80 to the imaging device 1 . In the present embodiment, a wired connection between the imaging device 1 and an external device has been described.

The camera system of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is an electrical block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the camera system.

In this embodiment, an image pickup unit is composed of an imaging optical system 501, an image pickup device 106, an image pickup device control unit 107, a lens drive unit 131, a focus control unit 119, a release switch 502, a photometry control unit 132, and a shutter 133. .

In normal still image shooting, when the user presses the release switch 502, the subject light collected by the imaging optical system 501 is subjected to light amount control by the shutter 133, and the image pickup device 106 displays a subject image by photoelectric conversion processing. be done. The acquired image is displayed on the display unit 154 of the EVF 150 . The shutter 133 may be a focal plane shutter, a lens shutter, or an electronic shutter that electronically controls the amount of light taken into the image sensor 106 . The imaging optical system 501 is represented by one lens in FIG. 6 for the sake of convenience, but may be composed of a plurality of lenses. The display unit 154 is, for example, a TFT display or an organic EL display, and may display the state of the imaging device 1 to the user.

The image pickup device control unit 107 has a timing generator for supplying a transfer clock signal and a shutter signal to the image pickup device 106 and a circuit for performing noise removal and gain processing on the output signal of the image pickup device 106 . The imaging device control unit 107 also has an A/D conversion circuit for converting an analog signal into, for example, a 10-bit digital signal. A 10-bit digital signal corresponds to the number of quantization bits for video information acquisition. The number of bits can be changed variously depending on the specifications of the image sensor 106 or the like. Furthermore, in order to perform display on the display unit 154 and video shooting, the image sensor control unit 107 causes the image sensor 106 to output thinned pixel data in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction according to the resolution conversion instruction from the controller 101. It has circuits and the like for processing.

The photometry control unit 132 takes in luminance signals generated in the pixels of the light receiving surface of the image sensor 106 and sends the information to the controller 101 . The controller 101 performs optimum exposure calculation for the imaging apparatus 1 based on the acquired information, and achieves optimum exposure by controlling the shutter speed and the aperture of the imaging optical system 501 . Further, the controller 101 can detect a subject and, in turn, determine a shooting scene based on luminance signals and color signals output by the image sensor 106 .

The focus control unit 119 detects focus positions for a plurality of areas of the imaging screen by conventional focus position detection methods such as contrast AF (hill-climbing AF) and phase-difference AF. The focus control unit 119 calculates, for example, how much the lens should be driven from the current position through the controller 101 to achieve focus (or whether the focus is achieved at the current lens position), and instructs the lens driving unit 131 to drive the amount. instruct. The lens drive unit 131 performs a focusing operation by changing the position of a specific lens in the imaging optical system 501 according to the drive amount calculated by the focus control unit 119 . The focusing method is not limited to driving the lens, and similar effects can be obtained by changing the relative position between the imaging device 106 and the entire imaging optical system 501 . In this case, for example, the imaging device 106 may be moved back and forth along the optical axis of the imaging optical system 501 .

A controller (central processing unit) 101 controls the operation of the entire camera system. The controller 101 performs various controls based on control programs in the ROM 102 . The control includes processing for instructing a shooting operation associated with the operation of the release switch 502 and processing for reading a captured image (video) signal output from the image processing unit 108 and transferring it to the RAM 103 . Similarly, there is a process of transferring image data from the RAM 103 to the display control unit 111 and a process of compressing the image data by JPEG and storing it in the data storage unit 104 in a file format. In the case of moving image data, the same processing is performed, and the data is compressed into a file of MOV format or the like and stored in the data storage means 104 . The controller 101 also instructs the image sensor 106, image sensor control unit 107, image processing unit 108, and display control unit 111 to change the data capture range and digital image processing.

The controller 101 also outputs a control signal to the DC/DC converter 117 for controlling power supply to each element. The DC/DC converter 117 receives power supply from the battery 116 and performs boosting and regulation. As a result, a plurality of power supplies are created, and power supplies of necessary voltages are supplied to each element including the controller 101 . Also, the DC/DC converter 117 controls start and stop of voltage supply to each element according to a control signal from the controller 101 . The battery 116 is a rechargeable secondary battery or dry battery. In this embodiment, the battery 116 is used to supply power to the DC/DC converter 117, but the invention is not limited to this. Other power supply devices that can supply power may be used.

The RAM 103 has an image development area, a work area, a VRAM, a temporary save area, and the like. The image expansion area is used as a temporary buffer for temporarily storing the photographed image (YUV digital signal) sent from the image processing unit 108 and the JPEG compressed image data read from the data storage means 104 . The image expansion area is also used as an image dedicated work area for image compression processing and decompression processing. A work area is a work area for various programs. The VRAM stores display data to be displayed on each display unit. The temporary save area is an area for temporarily saving various data.

The data storage unit 104 is a flash memory for storing JPEG-compressed captured image data by the controller 101 and moving image data such as MOV format in a file format.

The image processing unit 108 performs image processing such as gamma conversion, color space conversion, white balance, AE, and flash correction on the 10-bit digital signal output from the image sensor control unit 107, and converts it into YUV (4:2: 2) output a formatted 8-bit digital signal;

The display control unit 111 receives the YUV digital image data transferred from the image processing unit 108 or the YUV digital image data obtained by performing JPEG decompression on the image file in the data storage unit 104 . The display control unit 111 converts the received image data into RGB digital signals, and then outputs the RGB digital signals to the display unit 154 . The display control unit 111 also has a viewfinder connection detection unit 115 that detects connection of the EVF 150 to the camera body 50 .

The data communication unit 109 wirelessly communicates with an external device 160 having a display unit 161 such as a smartphone. This enables remote control of the imaging device 1 . For example, it is possible to shoot while confirming the image acquired by the imaging device 1 on the display unit 161 with the imaging device 1 installed at a predetermined position.

A zoom switch 503 is an operation member for the user to operate the optical zoom magnification of the imaging optical system 105 . A signal from the zoom switch 503 that is input to the controller 101 causes the lens drive unit 131 to control the imaging optical system 105 so that the optical zoom magnification can be varied. In this embodiment, the zoom switch 503 has two switches for increasing the optical zoom magnification and decreasing the optical zoom magnification, as described above.

A power switch 504 is an operation member for a user to operate power-on and power-off of the imaging apparatus 1 .

A mode switch 505 is an operation member for a user to operate mode switching for various types of shooting provided in the imaging apparatus 1 . Mode switching is performed by a signal from the mode switch 505 that is input to the controller 101 .

A controller 155 provided in the EVF 150 is connected to a connector 151 , an eye proximity detection section 152 and a display section 154 and controls the entire EVF 150 .

A photographing method in which the connector 507 functions as a leg for adjusting the optical axis position of the imaging apparatus 1 will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a side view of the imaging device 1 and shows how the optical axis position of the imaging device 1 changes depending on the amount of protrusion of the connector 507 .

FIG. 7A shows a state in which the connector 507 does not protrude from the camera body 50 and the flat portion 50a is in contact with the installation surface. 7B shows a state in which the connector 507 is rotated from the state in FIG. 7A, the connector 507 protrudes from the camera body 50, and the camera body 50 is tilted with respect to the installation surface. ing. At this time, the flat portion 50a and the connector 507 are in contact with the installation surface, and the optical axis of the camera body 50 is inclined at an angle θ1 with respect to the installation surface. FIG. 7C shows a state in which the connector 507 has been rotated from the state in FIG. be. At this time, the optical axis of the camera body 50 is inclined at an angle θ2 (>θ1) with respect to the installation surface. In this way, by rotating the connector 507 in a state of protruding from the camera body 50, the posture of the camera body 50 can be adjusted. That is, the optical axis of the imaging device 1 can be freely adjusted.

The connector 507 will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of the connector 507. As shown in FIG. As described above, the connector 507 is used as a connector for connecting to an external device, and is also used as a leg for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1 .

8A shows a state in which the connector 507 protrudes from the camera body 50. FIG. FIG. 8(b) is a cross-sectional view of the connector 507 in a state of being housed in the housing portion 508 (stored state). FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional view of the connector 507 in a state (first state) that protrudes from the camera body 50 and can be used as a leg for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1 . FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional view of the connector 507 protruding from the camera body 50 and in a state (second state) capable of being wiredly connected to an external device.

The connector 507 has a plug portion (connecting portion) 507a for connecting to an external device, a connector body portion 507b that holds the plug portion 507a, and a protective member 507d that protects the plug portion 507a. The connector 507 is attached to the camera body 50 by a shaft portion 507c so as to be rotatable about the shaft portion 507c.

In the state shown in FIG. 8(b), the protective member 507d does not cover the plug portion 507a, but the plug portion 507a is housed in the housing portion 508 so that it will not be damaged by an external force. At this time, the protective member 507d is biased toward the connector main body 507b by a biasing member provided on the camera body 50 (not shown).

When the connector 507 is rotated from the state shown in FIG. 8(b), the connector 507 protrudes from the camera body 50 and enters the state shown in FIG. 8(c). When the connector 507 shifts from the state shown in FIG. 8B to the state shown in FIG. direction). In the state of FIG. 8C, the plug portion 507a is always protected by the protective member 507d, so the connector 507 can be used as a leg portion for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1. FIG. Further, in this embodiment, the camera body 50 becomes ready for wireless communication via the data communication means 109 by protruding the connector 507 from the state shown in FIG. 8B.

When the connector 507 is rotated from the state shown in FIG. 8(c), the connector 507 is locked by a locking portion (not shown) in a state substantially perpendicular to the state shown in FIG. 8(b). ). When the protective member 507d shifts from the state shown in FIG. 8C to the state shown in FIG. ), and the plug portion 507a is not covered in the state of FIG. 8(d). Therefore, in the state of FIG. 8D, the plug portion 507a can be connected to an external device, and the connector 507 can be used as a connector for connecting to the external device.

In this embodiment, the protective member 507d moves between the state of covering the plug portion 507a and the state of not covering it by mechanical biasing by a biasing member (not shown), but the present invention is not limited to this. A magnet or a motor may be used to move the protective member 507a. In this embodiment, the protective member 507d does not cover the plug portion 507a in the state of FIG. 8(b), but the plug portion 507a may be covered in order to protect the plug portion 507a more strongly. . In the state of FIG. 8C, the plug portion 507a is protected by the protective member 507a, and the connector 507 cannot be connected to an external device. However, by pushing the protective member 507d in the direction opposite to the direction toward the plug portion 507a, the connector 507 can be connected to an external device.

A typical connection flow between the imaging device 1 and an external device will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is an example of a connection flowchart between the imaging apparatus 1 of this embodiment and an external device.

In step S<b>200 , the controller 101 detects that the power switch 504 has been pressed by the user, and causes the DC/DC converter 117 to supply power to each component within the imaging apparatus 1 .

In step S<b>201 , controller 101 determines whether connection of EVF 150 to camera body 50 has been detected by viewfinder connection detection unit 115 . If the connection of the EVF 150 is detected, the process proceeds to step S202, and if the connection of the EVF 150 is not detected, the process proceeds to step S203.

In step S202, the controller 101 determines whether the connector 507 protrudes from the camera body 50 as shown in FIGS. 7(b), 7(c) and 8(c). If the connector 507 protrudes, the process proceeds to step S203, and if the connector 507 does not protrude, it is determined that the user is looking into the EVF 150, and the shooting state is entered. In step S202, the imaging apparatus 1 is in a state in which the EVF 150 is connected to the camera body 50 as shown in FIGS.

In step S203, the controller 101 determines whether the connector 507 is connected to the camera body 50 by wire. When the connector 507 is connected by wire, it is determined that the camera body 50 is connected to an external device, and the image capturing state is entered. When the connector 507 is not connected by wire, the camera body 50 is being remotely controlled. , and the process proceeds to step S204.

In step S204, the controller 101 establishes a wireless connection with an external device, and shifts to a photographing state.

As described above, the connector 507 built in the imaging device 1 projects rotatably with respect to the camera main body 50, and can freely adjust the angle of the optical axis of the imaging device 1 as a leg. be.

In this embodiment, the number of the connector for connecting to the external device and the number of legs for adjusting the optical axis are respectively one, but the present invention is not limited to this. Further, the rotation of the connector 507 may be configured to be manually operable, or may be configured such that an electric driving member such as a motor is provided in the camera body 50 so as to be remotely operable from the outside.
[Second embodiment]
This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the configuration of the connector. Since other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, description thereof will be omitted.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of the connector 507 of this embodiment. As described in the first embodiment, the connector 507 is used as a connector for connecting to an external device, and is also used as a leg for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1 .

The connector 507 has a plug portion (connection portion) 507e and a body portion (leg portion) 507f. The connector 507 is attached to the camera body 50 by a shaft portion 507g so as to be rotatable about the shaft portion 507g. In this embodiment, the connector 507 is not provided with a protective member for protecting the plug portion 507e.

FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view of the connector 507 in a state (stored state) housed in the camera body 50. FIG. When the connector 507 is rotated clockwise (in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 10B) from the state shown in FIG. 10(b) in which it is locked by a locking portion (not shown). In the state shown in FIG. 10B, the plug portion 507e can be connected to an external device, and the connector 507 can be used as a connector for connecting to the external device.

When the connector 507 is rotated counterclockwise in FIG. 10(c)-FIG. 10(e) from the state shown in FIG. As a result, the body portion 507f rotates in a direction in which it protrudes from the camera body 50. As shown in FIG. The connector 507 moves from the position shown in FIG. 10(a) to the position shown in FIG. 10(c), the position shown in FIG. 10(d), and the position shown in FIG. 10(e) in this order. At this time, the connector 507 may be locked by giving a click feeling to the user at each position. As the connector 507 freely rotates with respect to the camera body 50 in this manner, the body portion 507f is used as a leg portion for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1, and the optical axis of the imaging device 1 is adjusted step by step. can do. While the body portion 507f is used as a leg portion for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1, the contact portion 507h contacts the installation surface. The surface roughness of the contact portion 507h is rougher than that of the plug portion 507e and the body portion 507f. This makes it possible to stably install the imaging device 1 . The surface roughness of the contact portion 507h can be increased by, for example, matting.

In this embodiment, when the connector 507 rotates counterclockwise from the position shown in FIG. three positions), but the invention is not so limited. The body portion 507f may be configured to be usable as a leg portion at any position while the connector 507 rotates counterclockwise from the position shown in FIG. 10(a). Further, when the connector 507 is rotated clockwise from the position shown in FIG. 10A, the connector 507 may be rotated seamlessly.
[Third embodiment]
In this embodiment, the possible states of the connector are different from those in the first embodiment. Since other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, description thereof will be omitted.

FIG. 11A shows the state of the connector 507 protruding from the camera body 50 and capable of being wiredly connected to an external device. As described in the first and second embodiments, the connector 507 is rotatable between the housed state and the state shown in FIG. 11(a). In this embodiment, the connector 507 is further configured to be rotatable between the state shown in FIG. 11(a) and the state shown in FIG. 11(b). Specifically, in the state shown in FIG. 11(a), the connector 507 is rotated in the direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. 11(a) from the retracted state to the state shown in FIG. (rotating direction) in a direction (second rotating direction) perpendicular to the rotating direction). When the connector 507 rotates approximately 90 degrees in a direction perpendicular to the direction of rotation up to FIG. 11(a), the state (third state) of FIG. 11(b) is reached.

In the state of FIG. 11A, the connector 507 is arranged on the short side of the image sensor 106 with the length X. In the state shown in FIG. In the state of FIG. 11B, the connector 507 is arranged on the long side of the imaging device 106 with a length Y (>X). By configuring the connector 507 so that the position of the connector 507 can be rotated 90 degrees with respect to the image sensor 106, for example, when connecting to an external device such as a smartphone, the aspect ratio of the image sensor 106 and the display of the external device can be combined. Therefore, when the user confirms the display after photographing, a photographed image that does not cause a sense of incongruity in terms of image display is output.

Note that the layout of the imaging element 106 is not limited to the layout of this embodiment, and the connector 507 may be arranged on the long side of the imaging element 106 in the state of FIG. 11(a).
[Fourth embodiment]
FIG. 12 is an external perspective view of the imaging device 2 of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12(a), a power/release switch 602 serving as both a release switch and a power switch is arranged on the right side of the camera body 60 when viewed from the front, and a zoom switch 603 is arranged on the right edge. ing. Also, as shown in FIG. 12(b), a mode switch 605 is arranged on the right edge of the camera body 60 as viewed from the back, and a connector 607 is arranged on the right side. The power/release switch 602 can, for example, switch between power ON and power OFF by pressing it for a long time, and can start an imaging operation by pressing it for a short time. The EVF 150 is configured to be removable from the camera body 60 . The connector 607 is located on the side of the camera body 60 and can be used for the same purposes as described in the first and second embodiments. Other components are the same as those in the first embodiment, so descriptions thereof are omitted.
[Fifth embodiment]
FIG. 13 is an external perspective view of the imaging device 3 of this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13A, a release switch 702 is arranged on the top surface of the camera body 70, and a zoom lever 703 is arranged on the front surface so as to surround the imaging optical system 501. As shown in FIG. A zoom lever 703 can switch the focal length between 100 mm and 400 mm. The focal length of the imaging optical system 501 is set to 100 mm by adjusting the tip of the zoom lever 703 to the position 100 in the figure, and the focal length of the imaging optical system 501 is set to 400 mm by adjusting the tip to the position 400. be. As shown in FIG. 13B, a power switch 704 is arranged on the side of the camera body 70, and a tripod hole 706 and a connector 707 are arranged on the bottom. The EVF 150 is configured to be removable from the camera body 70 . The connector 707 is arranged on the bottom surface of the camera body 70 and can be used for the same purposes as described in the first and second embodiments. Other components are the same as those in the first embodiment, so descriptions thereof are omitted.
[Sixth embodiment]
This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the configuration of the connector. Since other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, description thereof will be omitted.

First, referring to FIG. 14, the configuration of the connector 507 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the connector 507. As shown in FIG. The connector 507 has a plug portion 507a, a connector body portion 507b, a protective member 507d, a spring 507m, a plug cover 507n, and a flexible substrate 507p.

The plug portion 507a is held by the connector body portion 507b as a connector for connecting to an external device.

The protection member 507d is slidably fitted to the connector body 507b and protects the plug 507a in the housed state. The protection member 507d is formed with a contact portion 507h that contacts the installation surface when the connector 507 is used as a leg portion for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1 so as to face the plug portion 507a.

The spring 507m is arranged between the connector body 507b and the protective member 507d, and biases the plug portion 507a to protrude from the protective member 507d.

The plug cover 507n supports the plug portion 507a, the connector body portion 507b, and the spring 507m within the protective member 507d.

The flexible substrate 507p connects the plug portion 507a and the substrate (not shown) of the camera body 50 .

Next, referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, a support structure for the connector 507 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view showing the support structure of the connector 507. FIG. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a support structure for the connector 507. As shown in FIG.

A supporting structure of the connector 507 is composed of a storage portion 508 , an elastic member 510 and a rotating shaft (shaft portion) 511 .

The housing portion 508 houses the connector 507 and is fixed to the camera body 50 with fixing screws (not shown). The housing portion 508 is formed with a hole 508a into which the rotating shaft 511 is rotatably fitted, and a locking claw 508b for locking the connector 507 when the connector 507 is housed in the housing portion 508. there is

The elastic member 510 is arranged between the housing portion 508 and the rotating shaft 511 and applies a constant frictional force when the connector 507 rotates with respect to the housing portion 508 .

The rotating shaft 511 is rotatably fitted in the hole 508a and the elongated hole 507r provided in the protective member 507d, and fixed to the connector body 507b. Thereby, the connector 507 is rotatably supported by the housing portion 508 .

Next, referring to FIG. 17, a method for projecting the connector 507 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a projecting state of the connector 507. As shown in FIG. FIG. 17(a) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the connector 507 is housed in the housing portion 508. FIG. FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of the connector 507 in a state (first state) in which the protective member 507d protrudes from the storage portion 508 and can be used as a leg portion for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1. FIG. FIG. 17C is a cross-sectional view of the connector 507 in a state (second state) in which the plug portion 507a protrudes from the storage portion 508 and can be wiredly connected to an external device.

First, the projecting operation of the protective member 507d will be described. When the plug portion 507a side is pushed counterclockwise (in the direction of arrow A) in the state shown in FIG. By this rotation, the contact portion 507h moves rightward in the drawing along the slope of the locking claw 508b while charging the spring 507m, and the contact portion 507h passes the locking claw 508b. The protective member 507d that has passed through the locking claw 508b moves leftward in the drawing due to the charging force of the spring 507m. The movement of the protection member 507d stops when the plug portion 507a comes into contact with the plug cover 507n. As shown in FIG. 17B, the contact portion 507h protrudes from the storage portion 508 so that the connector 507 can be used as a leg portion for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1. As shown in FIG. At this time, the plug portion 507a is not covered with the protective member 507d, but is housed in the housing portion 508, so that the connector 507 cannot be connected to an external device.

Next, the projecting operation of the plug portion 507a will be described. When the contact portion 507h side is pressed clockwise (in the direction of arrow B) in the state shown in FIG. Due to this rotation, the protective member 507d moves toward the inner wall 508c of the housing portion 508 by the spring force of the spring 507m. The movement of the protection member 507d stops when the plug portion 507a comes into contact with the plug cover 507n. As shown in FIG. 17(c), the connector 507 becomes connectable to an external device by protruding the plug portion 507a that is not covered with the protective member 507d. At this time, since the contact portion 507h is housed in the housing portion 508, the connector 507 cannot be used as a leg portion for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1. FIG.
[Seventh Embodiment]
This embodiment differs from the first to third and sixth embodiments in the configuration of the connector. Other configurations are the same as those of the first to third and sixth embodiments, so descriptions thereof are omitted.

In this embodiment, the connector 507 is used as a connector for connecting to an external device. In addition, the posture adjusting section 915 is used as a leg section for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1 .

First, referring to FIG. 18, the configuration of the connector 507 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the connector 507. As shown in FIG.

The connector 507 has a plug portion 507a, a connector body portion 507b, a plug cover 507n, and a flexible substrate 507p.

The plug portion 507a is held by the connector body portion 507b as a connector for connecting to an external device.

The plug cover 507n is supported by the connector body 507b as an exterior component.

The flexible substrate 507p connects the plug portion 507a and the substrate (not shown) of the camera body 50 .

Next, referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the support structure of the connector 507 and the posture adjusting section 915 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view showing the supporting structure of the connector 507 and the posture adjusting section 915. As shown in FIG. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing a support structure for the connector 507 and the posture adjusting portion 915. As shown in FIG.

The support structure of the connector 507 and the attitude adjustment part 915 is composed of the storage part 508, the rotation shaft (shaft part) 511, the spring 916, the attitude adjustment part locking knob 917, the knob spring 918, the knob cover 919, and the connector lid 920. ing.

The housing portion 508 houses the connector 507 and the posture adjusting portion 915, and is fixed to the camera body 50 with fixing screws (not shown). The housing portion 508 is formed with a hole 508a into which the rotating shaft 511 is rotatably fitted, a space 508d for housing the flexible substrate 507p, and a protrusion 508e for regulating the projecting position of the posture adjusting portion 915. .
The connector 507 is attached to the camera body 50 by a shaft portion 507c so as to be rotatable about the shaft portion 507c.

The connector 507 is attached to the housing portion 508 by a rotating shaft 511 so as to be rotatable around the rotating shaft 511 .

The posture adjusting section 915 is attached to the storage section 508 by a rotating shaft 511 so as to be rotatable about the rotating shaft 511 , similarly to the connector 507 . The posture adjustment portion 915 includes a contact portion 915 a that contacts the installation surface when used as a leg portion for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1 and a latch that is locked when stored in the storage portion 508 . A stop hole 915b and a restricting protrusion 915c that restricts the projecting position are formed.

When the connector 507 and the posture adjusting portion 915 are stored in the storage portion 508, the plug portion 507a is stored on the right side of the rotation shaft 511, and the contact portion 915a is stored on the left side.

The spring 916 is arranged between the connector 507 and the posture adjusting portion 915, one of which is hung on the connector main body portion 507b and the other on the posture adjusting portion 915, and the connector 507 and the posture adjusting portion 915 are held in the storage portion 508 ( It is biased in the direction of protruding from the camera body 50).

A locking portion 917a that is inserted into the locking hole 915b is formed in the posture adjusting portion locking knob 917. As shown in FIG. The locking portion 917 a locks the posture adjusting portion 915 when the posture adjusting portion 915 is stored in the storage portion 508 .

The knob spring 918 is arranged between the storage portion 508 and the attitude adjustment portion locking knob 917 and biases the attitude adjustment portion locking knob 917 and the attitude adjustment portion 915 in a locking direction.

The knob cover 919 is fixed to the housing portion 508 by four fixing claws 919 a and covers the attitude adjustment portion locking knob 917 .

The connector lid 920 is slidably attached to a groove 919b formed in the knob cover 919, and when the connector 507 is stored in the storage portion 508, it locks the connector 507 and covers the plug portion 507a. .

Next, referring to FIGS. 21 and 22, a method of protruding the connector 507 and the posture adjusting portion 915 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 21 is a bottom view showing how the connector cover 920 is moved. FIG. 21(a) is a bottom view showing a state where the connector lid 920 covers the plug portion 507a. FIG. 21(b) is a bottom view showing a state in which the connector lid 920 is moved to the posture adjusting portion 915. FIG. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing a protruding state of the connector 507 and the posture adjusting portion 915. As shown in FIG. FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the connector 507 and the attitude adjustment section 915 are stored in the storage section 508. FIG. FIG. 22(b) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the connector 507 protrudes from the housing portion 508. As shown in FIG. FIG. 22C is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the posture adjusting portion 915 protrudes from inside the storage portion 508. As shown in FIG.

First, a method for projecting the connector 507 will be described. From the state shown in FIGS. 21(a) and 22(a), the connector cover 920 is slid in the direction (to the left) to cover the posture adjusting portion 915 as shown in FIGS. 21(b) and 22(b). This slide releases the locking of the plug portion 507a locked by the connector cover 920, and the connector 507 rotates clockwise about the rotating shaft 511 by the charging force of the spring 916, and the plug portion 507a is retracted. It protrudes from within the portion 508 . At this time, when the connector main body 507b abuts on the posture adjusting portion 915, the protruding position of the plug portion 507a is determined as shown in FIG. 22(b). Also, the flexible substrate 507p stored in the space 508d rotates counterclockwise about the flexible substrate fixing shaft 508f of the storage portion 508. As shown in FIG. Projecting the plug portion 507a allows the connector 507 to be connected to an external device. At this time, since the posture adjusting section 915 is covered with the connector cover 920 , the posture adjusting section 915 cannot be used as a leg for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1 .

Next, a method for housing the connector 507 will be described. From the state shown in FIGS. 21(b) and 22(b), the connector cover 920 is slid to the right. This sliding causes the connector lid 920 to press the plug portion 507a. By this pressing, the plug portion 507a rotates counterclockwise while charging the spring 916, and the plug portion 507a is housed in the housing portion 508 as shown in FIG. 22(a). At this time, the flexible board 507p rotates clockwise around the flexible board fixing shaft 508f of the storage portion 508 and is stored in the space 508d.

Next, a method for protruding the posture adjusting portion 915 will be described. From the state shown in FIGS. 21A and 22A, the posture adjustment unit locking knob 917 is slid leftward while charging the knob spring 918 . This slide releases the engagement between the engagement portion 917a and the engagement hole 915b, and the attitude adjustment portion 915 rotates counterclockwise about the rotating shaft 511 due to the charging force of the spring 916. protrudes from the housing portion 508 . The projection position of the posture adjusting portion 915 is determined by the contact of the restricting protrusion 915c with the protrusion 508e, as shown in FIG. 22(c). As shown in FIG. 22( c ), the posture adjusting section 915 protrudes so that the posture adjusting section 915 can be used as a leg section for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1 . At this time, since the plug portion 507a is covered with the connector cover 920, the connector 507 cannot be connected to an external device.

Next, a method for storing the posture adjusting section 915 will be described. From the state shown in FIG. 22(c), the posture adjusting portion 915 is pressed clockwise. By this pressing, the posture adjusting portion 915 is stored in the storage portion 508 while charging the spring 916 as shown in FIG. 22(a). When the posture adjusting portion 915 is stored in the storage portion 508, the locking portion 917a is inserted into the locking hole 915b.
[Eighth embodiment]
This embodiment differs from the first to third, sixth and seventh embodiments in the configuration of the connector. Other configurations are the same as those of the first to third, sixth and seventh embodiments, so description thereof will be omitted.

FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the connector 507 of this embodiment. The only differences from the above-described embodiment are that the direction in which the connector 507 is retracted is the same as the direction in which the posture adjusting portion 915 is retracted, and that a spring 921, a connector locking knob 922, and a knob spring 923 are added. .

The spring 921 is arranged between the posture adjusting portion 915 and the storage portion 508 , one of which is hung on the posture adjusting portion 915 and the other on the storage portion 508 , and the posture adjusting portion 915 is placed in the storage portion 508 (camera body 50 ). ) is biased in the direction of protruding from the With the addition of the spring 921, the spring 916 biases only the connector 507 in the direction of protruding from the housing portion 508 (camera body 50).

The connector locking knob 922 is formed with a locking portion 922 a that is inserted into the locking hole of the plug portion 507 a of the connector 507 . Locking portion 922 a locks connector 507 when connector 507 is housed in housing portion 508 .

The knob spring 923 is arranged between the housing portion 508 and the connector locking knob 922 and biases the connector locking knob 922 and the connector 507 in a locking direction.

A method for projecting the connector 507 and the posture adjustment portion 915 will be described below with reference to FIG. 24 . FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view showing a protruding state of the connector 507 and the posture adjusting portion 915. As shown in FIG. FIG. 24A is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the connector 507 and the posture adjusting section 915 are housed in the housing section 508. FIG. FIG. 24(b) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the connector 507 protrudes from the housing portion 508. As shown in FIG. FIG. 24C is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the posture adjusting portion 915 protrudes from inside the storage portion 508. As shown in FIG.

First, a method for projecting the connector 507 will be described. From the state shown in FIG. 24( a ), the connector locking knob 922 is slid rightward while charging the knob spring 923 . Due to this sliding, the engagement between the engagement portion 922a and the engagement hole of the plug portion 507a is released, and the connector 507 rotates counterclockwise about the rotating shaft 511 by the charging force of the spring 916, and the storage portion 508 protrude from within. When the connector main body 507b of the connector 507 abuts against the posture adjusting portion 915, the projecting position of the connector 507 is determined as shown in FIG. 24(b). Also, the flexible substrate 507p stored in the space 508d of the storage portion 508 rotates clockwise around the flexible board fixing shaft 508f of the storage portion 508. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 24(b), the connector 507 can be connected to an external device by projecting the plug portion 507a of the connector 507. As shown in FIG.

Next, a method for protruding the posture adjusting portion 915 will be described. From the state shown in FIG. 24( a ), slide the posture adjustment unit locking knob 917 leftward while charging the knob spring 918 . This slide releases the engagement between the locking portion 917 a of the posture adjusting portion locking knob 917 and the locking hole 915 a of the posture adjusting portion 915 , and the posture adjusting portion 915 rotates around the rotating shaft 511 by the charging force of the spring 921 . It rotates counterclockwise and protrudes from inside the housing portion 508 . The projection position of the posture adjusting portion 915 is determined by the contact of the restricting protrusion 915c of the posture adjusting portion 915 with the protrusion 908e of the storage portion 508, as shown in FIG. 24(c). As shown in FIG. 24( c ), the posture adjusting section 915 protrudes so that the posture adjusting section 915 can be used as a leg section for adjusting the optical axis of the imaging device 1 .

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

1 imaging device 106 imaging element 50 camera main body (main body)
501 imaging optical system (imaging optical system)
507 External device connection connector (connector)
508 storage unit

Claims (13)

a main body including an imaging optical system and an imaging device that captures an image of a light flux that has passed through the imaging optical system;
a connector rotatably protruding from the main body;
a storage unit that stores the connector,
When the connector protrudes from the main body, the connector is in a first state in which the attitude of the main body can be adjusted in order to adjust the photographing range of the photographing optical system, and in a second state in which it can be electrically connected to an external device. It is possible to take two states,
The angle formed with the main body portion when the connector is in the first state is different from the angle formed with the main body portion when the connector is in the second state,
The imaging device , wherein the connector is electrically unconnectable to the external device when in the first state . The connector includes a connecting portion for connecting to the external device provided at the tip of the connector, and a cover for covering the connecting portion when in the first state and connecting the connecting portion when in the second state. 2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a protective member that does not cover the part. 3. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the protective member does not cover the connection portion when the connector is stored in the storage portion. a main body including an imaging optical system and an imaging device that captures an image of a light flux that has passed through the imaging optical system;
a connector rotatably protruding from the main body;
a storage unit that stores the connector,
When the connector protrudes from the main body, the connector is in a first state in which the attitude of the main body can be adjusted in order to adjust the photographing range of the photographing optical system, and in a second state in which it can be electrically connected to an external device. It is possible to take two states,
The connector has a connecting portion provided at the tip of the connector for connecting to the external device, and a protective member for protecting the connecting portion,
The protective member moves in a direction toward the connecting portion so as to cover the connecting portion when the connector moves from a state in which the connector is housed in the housing portion to a state in which the connector protrudes from the main body portion. When moving from a state of protruding from the main body to a state of being housed in the housing, the imaging device moves in a direction opposite to a direction toward the connection so as not to cover the connection. Device. 5. The imaging apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the protective member moves in the opposite direction when the connector shifts from the first state to the second state. 6. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the connector protrudes from the main body, thereby enabling wireless communication with the external device. a main body including an imaging optical system and an imaging device that captures an image of a light flux that has passed through the imaging optical system;
a connector rotatably protruding from the main body;
a storage unit that stores the connector,
When the connector protrudes from the main body, the connector is in a first state in which the attitude of the main body can be adjusted in order to adjust the photographing range of the photographing optical system, and in a second state in which it can be electrically connected to an external device. It is possible to take two states,
the first end of the connector is a connection portion for connecting to the external device;
the second end of the connector is a leg capable of adjusting the posture of the main body;
By rotating the connector around a shaft provided in the main body, the connection part protrudes from the main body, and the leg is stored in the storage. and a state in which the body portion is stored in the storage portion. when the connector rotates in the first direction and the connecting portion protrudes from the main body, the connecting portion is locked at one position in the rotation direction;
When the connector rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction and the legs protrude from the main body, the legs are locked at a plurality of positions in the rotation direction. 8. The imaging device according to claim 7 , characterized by: 9. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the surface roughness of the leg portion is larger than that of the connection portion. a main body including an imaging optical system and an imaging device that captures an image of a light flux that has passed through the imaging optical system;
a connector rotatably protruding from the main body;
a storage unit that stores the connector,
When the connector protrudes from the main body, the connector is in a first state in which the attitude of the main body can be adjusted in order to adjust the photographing range of the photographing optical system, and in a second state in which it can be electrically connected to an external device. It is possible to take two states,
An imaging apparatus, wherein switching between the first state and the second state can be performed by a remote controller. The connector can rotate between the first state and the second state by rotating in a first rotating direction, and can rotate in a second state orthogonal to the first rotating direction. 10 , characterized by being able to rotate between said second state and a third state in which said external device can be electrically connected by rotating in a rotating direction of . The imaging device according to any one of . 12. The imaging apparatus according to claim 11 , wherein the connector enters the third state by rotating in the second state by 90 degrees in the second rotation direction. 13. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 11 , wherein the connector is arranged on the short side of the image pickup device.

Images