WO2004070447A1

WO2004070447A1 - Image pickup device and mobile terminal device using the image pickup device

Info

Publication number: WO2004070447A1
Application number: PCT/JP2004/001002
Authority: WO
Inventors: Naoki Izumiya; Kazuhiko Suzuki; Yuuichi Atarashi
Original assignee: Konica Minolta Holdings, Inc.
Priority date: 2003-02-03
Filing date: 2004-02-02
Publication date: 2004-08-19
Also published as: JP2004266340A; JP4110988B2; TW200419284A

Abstract

An image pickup device requiring comparatively little cost and manufacturing complexity and capable of easily performing focus adjustment with a high accuracy and a mobile terminal device using the image pickup device. The image pickup device (100) includes a substrate (PC) having an image pickup element (2), an optical member (1), a mirror frame (3), a pressing member (9) for pressing the optical member (1) so as to be in abutment with the image pickup element (2), a rotary member (5) as a force switching mechanism or a suction force generation mechanism having a magnet (4) for generating a suction force for pulling forward the optical member (1) along the optical axis (Y) and capable of switching presence/absence of generation of the suction force, and a protruding portion (3e) which is brought into abutment with the optical member (1) moving forward along the optical axis (Y) so as to regulate the distance between the optical member (1) and the image pickup element (2).

Description

Description Imaging device and portable terminal device provided with the imaging device

The present invention relates to an imaging device that can be mounted on a mobile phone, a personal computer, and the like, and a mobile terminal device including the imaging device. Background technology:

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, many portable information terminal devices with an imaging function (hereinafter, referred to as portable terminal devices) such as mobile phones equipped with a small and high-performance imaging device have been developed.

Some of such conventional mobile terminal devices are configured to be capable of performing close-up photography for photographing characters of magazines and business cards, and close-up photography (hereinafter referred to as macro photography), in addition to ordinary photography. (See, for example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-2662164).

In the portable terminal device disclosed in this publication, an imaging device is rotatably attached to a terminal device main body (electronic device main body). More specifically, the portable terminal device includes a plate fixed to the terminal device main body, a cam groove provided on the plate, a frame of a lens that rotates integrally with the imaging device, and a cam groove. The lens is rotated while being regulated by the cam groove, so that the distance between the lenses is adjusted, and the magnification is adjusted to be suitable for macro photography.

However, the portable terminal device disclosed in the above publication requires a cam groove in the plate or a projecting portion in the lens frame, so that the mechanism is complicated, resulting in cost and manufacturing costs. There was a problem that it took time. In addition, since the focus is adjusted by a complicated mechanism, cam manufacturing accuracy is required, and lens mounting accuracy and assembly accuracy are also required. Also, when adjusting to multiple magnifications, multiple parts must be moved, so repeated use may cause backlash on some parts. There is a considerable risk that they will shift. Further, the portable terminal device disclosed in the above publication has a problem that it is inconvenient for the user because the user has to change the main body when performing photographing by switching the focal length.

Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned disadvantages in the prior art, and its object is to reduce the cost and the labor required for manufacturing. An object of the present invention is to provide an accurate imaging device and a mobile terminal device including the imaging device. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION:

In order to achieve the above object, according to a first aspect of the present invention, a substrate provided with an imaging element is in contact with the substrate or the imaging element so as to be separated therefrom, and the incident light is collected on the imaging element. An image pickup apparatus comprising: an optical member that emits light; and an outer frame member that covers the image pickup device and the optical member.

A protruding portion provided to protrude from an inner peripheral surface of the outer frame member and abutting on an optical member that moves forward along an optical axis so as to be separated from the image pickup device and controls a separation distance of the optical member; ,

The magnet 'generates a force for moving the optical member in at least one direction forward or backward along the optical axis, and by switching whether or not this force is generated, the optical member is moved to the substrate or the image sensor. A state in which the optical member is in contact with the projection, and a state in which the optical member is in contact with the protrusion.

There is provided an imaging device comprising:

According to the first aspect, the force switching mechanism causes the magnet to generate a force for moving the optical member in at least one direction in front of or behind the optical axis, and switches the presence / absence of the generation of the force. The state is switched between the state in which the member is in contact with the substrate or the image sensor, and the state in which the optical member is in contact with the protrusion that regulates the separation distance of the optical member from the imaging device. It is possible, and both positions are positioned, so that an accurate optical function is realized. In order to achieve the above object, according to a second aspect of the present invention, a substrate provided with an imaging device is in contact with the substrate or the imaging device so as to be separated therefrom, and the imaging device An optical member that radiates incident light to the optical member; an outer frame member that covers the image pickup device and the optical member; and an elastic member interposed elastically between a front portion of the outer frame member and the optical member. An imaging device comprising: a pressing member that presses an optical member against the substrate or the imaging element;

A magnet for generating a suction force for pulling the optical member forward along the optical axis, and a suction force generation mechanism capable of switching whether or not the suction force is generated; and a protrusion protruding from the inner peripheral surface of the outer frame member. A protruding portion that contacts the optical member that moves forward along the optical axis so as to be separated from the image pickup device and controls the separation distance of the optical member;

There is provided an imaging device comprising:

According to the second aspect, the magnet generates a suction force for pulling the optical member forward along the optical axis, and a suction force generation mechanism capable of switching whether or not the suction force is generated; A projection is provided to protrude from the inner peripheral surface and abuts on an optical member moving forward along the optical axis to regulate the position of the optical member. Therefore, in a state where the attraction force is not generated by the magnet by the attraction force generation mechanism, the optical member is in contact with the substrate or the image pickup device by the pressing member and is positioned. In addition, in a state where the attractive force is generated by the magnet by the attractive force generating mechanism, the optical member moves forward along the optical axis and is further restricted from moving by contacting the protrusion. With this, the imaging apparatus can perform imaging processing using two focal lengths: a focal length when the optical member is in contact with the substrate or the image sensor, and a focal length when the optical member is in contact with the protrusion. It is possible, and both positions are positioned, so a highly accurate optical function is realized. In addition, since the focal length can be adjusted and switched without providing a complicated mechanism, it is possible to realize multifunctional optical functions without manufacturing cost and labor. .

In order to achieve the above object, according to a third aspect of the present invention, a substrate provided with an imaging element is in contact with the substrate or the imaging element so as to be separated therefrom, and the incident light is collected on the imaging element. An image pickup apparatus comprising: an optical member that emits light; and an outer frame member that covers the image pickup device and the optical member.

Before forming the optical member, before and after being stacked back and forth so that the optical axis is equal An optical member and a rear optical member;

A magnet for generating a suction force for pulling the front optical member forward along the optical axis, and a suction force generation mechanism capable of switching whether or not the suction force is generated;

A protrusion provided to protrude from an inner peripheral surface of the outer frame member and abutting on the front optical member moving forward along the optical axis so as to be separated from the image pickup device, and restricting a separation distance of the optical member; Department and

A first pressing member elastically interposed between the front portion or the protruding portion of the outer frame member and the rear optical member, and pressing the rear optical member against the substrate or the imaging element;

A second pressing member elastically interposed between the front portion of the outer frame member and the front optical member, and pressing the front optical member against the rear optical member;

There is provided an imaging device comprising:

According to the third aspect, the optical member is composed of the front optical member and the rear optical member stacked back and forth so that the optical axes are equal, and draws the front optical member forward along the optical axis. An attractive force generating mechanism that generates an attractive force by a magnet and switches whether or not the attractive force is generated, and a front optical member that protrudes from the inner peripheral surface of the outer frame member and moves forward along the optical axis. A projection is provided to regulate the separation distance of the optical member from the image sensor, and the rear optical member is provided between the lower surface of the front portion or the lower surface of the projection of the outer frame member and the upper surface of the rear optical member. Alternatively, a first pressing member that presses against the image sensor is resiliently interposed, and a first pressing member that presses the front optical member ′ against the rear optical member is provided between the lower surface of the front portion of the outer frame member and the upper surface of the front optical member. Two pressing members are interposed sporadically. Therefore, in a state where the attraction force generated by the magnet is not generated by the attraction force generating mechanism, the front optical member is pressed against the rear optical member by the second pressing member, and the attraction force generated by the magnet is generated by the attraction force generation mechanism. In the state in which has occurred, the front optical member moves forward along the optical axis, and furthermore, the front optical member contacts the protruding portion, thereby restricting the movement. As a result, the image pickup apparatus can perform imaging using two focal lengths: a focal length when the front optical member is in contact with the rear optical member, and a focal length when the front optical member is in contact with the protrusion. Processing is possible, and the front optical member and the rear optical member are positioned in both states, so that an accurate optical function is realized. In addition, without having complicated mechanism, adjustment of focal length, Since switching is possible, multifunctional optical functions can be realized without manufacturing costs and labor. In addition, since the optical member is divided into a front optical member and a rear optical member, and only the front optical member is moved to adjust the focus, the moving optical member can be made smaller, so that the pressing member such as a pressing member The downsizing and the accompanying downsizing of the imaging device will be realized.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the imaging device according to the second or third aspect, the suction force generating mechanism is attached to a front end of the outer frame member, and has an optical axis centered. A first member made of a magnet rotating around the heart, a second member made of a magnetic material or a magnet attached to the optical member, and rotating the first member to form the first member. And a state in which the first member and the second member overlap in the vertical direction parallel to the optical axis, and a state in which the first member and the second member are separated in the vertical direction parallel to the optical axis. An imaging device is provided, comprising:

According to the fourth aspect, the same effects as those of the imaging device according to the second or third aspect can be obtained, and in particular, the suction force generating mechanism is provided by the optical axis attached to the front part. A first member made of a magnet rotating about the first member, a second member made of a magnetic substance or a magnet attached to the optical member, and a first member and a second member rotated by rotating the first member. Switching means for switching between a state in which the member overlaps in the vertical direction parallel to the optical axis, and a state in which the first member and the second member are separated in the vertical direction parallel to the optical axis. A state in which a suction force is generated between the first member and the second member by rotating the first member by the switching means, and a state in which no suction force is generated or a repulsion force is generated. That the focal length of the imaging device can be switched by forming the two states Ri, it is preferable not applied. Manufacturing cost and effort.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the imaging device according to the second or third aspect, the suction force generating mechanism is attached to a front end of the outer frame member, and the optical axis is aligned. A first member made of a magnetic material or a magnet that rotates around a center, a second member made of a magnet attached to the optical member, and the first member by rotating the first member And a state in which the second member overlaps with the second member in the vertical direction parallel to the optical axis, and a state in which the first member and the second member are separated in the vertical direction parallel to the optical axis. And a switching unit. According to the fifth aspect, the same effect as that of the invention described in the second or third aspect can be obtained, and in particular, the suction force generating mechanism is provided by the optical axis attached to the front part. A first member made of a magnetic material or a magnet that rotates around the center, a second member made of a magnet attached to the optical member, and a first member formed by rotating the first member. Switching means for switching between a state in which the second member overlaps in the vertical direction parallel to the optical axis and a state in which the first member and the second member are separated in the vertical direction parallel to the optical axis. When the first member is rotated by the switching means, a state in which a suction force is generated between the first member and the second member, and a state in which no suction force is generated or a repulsion force is generated. The focal length of the imaging device can be switched by forming the two states This is preferable because the production cost and labor are not required.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the imaging device according to the second or third aspect, the magnet is an electromagnet, and an attraction force is generated depending on whether a current is supplied to the electromagnet. There is provided an imaging apparatus including switching means for switching between presence and absence.

According to the sixth aspect, it is a matter of course that the same effects as those of the imaging device according to the second or third aspect can be obtained. In particular, the magnet is an electromagnet, and switching means is used. The focal length of the imaging device can be switched based on whether or not a suction force is generated depending on whether or not a current is supplied, which is preferable because the manufacturing cost and labor are reduced.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a mobile terminal device comprising the imaging device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects.

According to the seventh aspect, the portable terminal device including the imaging device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects realizes a multi-functional imaging function based on the imaging device. Can be. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:

FIG. 1 is a partially omitted perspective view of an imaging device of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG. 1 and showing a normal imaging mode state of the imaging apparatus. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line II-II in FIG. 1 and showing a macro imaging mode state of the imaging apparatus.

Figure 4 is Oh 0 ₀ a top view for explaining the position of the rotating member in the normal imaging mode

FIG. 5 is a top view for explaining the position of the rotating member in the macro imaging mode.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a normal imaging mode state in a modification of the imaging device shown in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a state of a Mac mouth imaging mode in a modified example of the imaging device shown in FIG.

FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are a front view and a rear view, respectively, showing an example of a mobile phone incorporating the imaging device of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the mobile phone shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the imaging control processing by the mobile phone shown in FIG. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following description will be made with the front-back direction along the optical axis Y in the imaging apparatus of the present invention being the up-down direction in FIG. 1 to FIG.

Here, the macro imaging mode is a mode in which the imaging distance (the distance between the lens and the subject) is shorter than in the normal imaging mode, and the imaging processing is performed.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the imaging device 100 includes a substrate PC, an imaging device 2 disposed on one surface of the substrate PC, and an imaging area of the imaging device 2. An optical member 1 for converging light onto the photoelectric conversion unit 2a described below to form a subject image, a mirror frame (outer frame member) 3 for covering the optical member 1 and the imaging element 2, and a mirror. A rotating member 5 provided on the upper surface (front portion) of the frame 3 and having a magnet 4, a light shielding member 6 provided below the rotating member 5 and having a light shielding property, and provided below the light shielding plate 6. Diaphragm plate 7 for adjusting the amount of light incident on the optical member 1 and a filter supported by the light shielding plate 6 and the diaphragm plate 7. A pressing member 9 provided between the optical member 1, the aperture plate 7 and the optical member 1 for pressing the optical member 1 toward the substrate PC side, and a positioning electric component 10 for positioning the lens frame 3. Have. The rotating member 5, the light blocking plate 6, the aperture plate 7, and the filter 8 constitute a front end 11 of the lens frame 3 (a front portion of the outer frame member).

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the optical member 1 is made of a transparent glass or plastic material, and is a first lens disposed on the substrate PC side (backward along the optical axis Y). A member 12; a second lens member 13 provided above the first lens member 12; and a first lens member 12 provided between the first lens member 12 and the second lens member 13. And a stop portion 14 for adjusting the amount of light incident on the lens member 12. The optical axes Y of the first lens member 12 and the second lens member 13 are the same. The first lens portion 1-12 includes a first lens portion 12a having a convex lens shape, and a tubular lower leg portion 12b around the first lens portion 12a. At the lower end of b, contact portions 12c,... that contact the surface of the imaging element 2 in the normal imaging mode are formed.

The pressing member 9 contacts the upper surface of the lower leg 12b. Then, in the normal imaging mode, the first lens member 12 is pressed toward the substrate PC by the pressing force of the pressing member 9.

Further, on the side of the lower leg portion 12b, an extension portion 12d extending to the side contacting the lens frame 3 is formed. The upper surface of the extension portion 12d is provided on the inner wall of the lens frame 3 in the macro imaging mode, and an inwardly protruding portion 3c (described later) abuts.

A magnetic body 15 made of a magnetic metal or the like that can react with the magnet 5 is adhered to the lower surface of the extension portion 12d with an adhesive or the like. This magnetic body 15 functions as a second member of the force switching mechanism or the suction force generating mechanism.

Then, in the macro imaging mode, when the position of the magnetic body 15 and the position of the magnet 4 of the rotating member 5 overlap in the vertical direction parallel to the optical axis Y, an attractive force is generated therebetween.

The suction force is larger than the pressing force of the pressing member 9 pressing the first lens member 12 against the image sensor 2, and the first lens member 12 is moved upward (frontward) along the optical axis Y. ).

Further, the extension portion 12 and the inner peripheral surface of the lens frame 3 are fitted so that rotation around the optical axis Y is prevented by fitting.

In addition, a protruding engaging portion 12 e that engages with the second lens member 13 is provided on the upper surface of the lower leg portion 12 b. The engaging portion 12 e is provided in a ring shape so as to surround the first lens portion 12 a from the upper surface of the lower leg portion 12 b.

The first lens member 12 is made of a light-shielding material inside the engagement portion 12e on the upper surface of the lower leg portion 12b and around the first lens portion 12a. A diaphragm section 14 having an aperture 14a as a diaphragm for defining the F-number of one lens section 12a is fixed by an adhesive.

The second lens member 13 is provided with a tubular lower leg 13b around the second lens portion 13a. Below the lower leg 13b, the first lens member 12 is provided. There is provided a recessed engaged portion 13c that engages with the engaging portion 12e. The engaged portion 13c has a ring shape protruding from the lower surface of the lower leg portion 13b, and its outer peripheral surface is in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the engaging portion 12e of the first lens member 12. The lower surface is in contact with the aperture plate 14. In this state, the lower surface of the lower leg portion 13b is in contact with the upper surface of the lower leg portion 12b of the first lens member 12. The engaging portion 12e of the first lens member 12 and the engaged portion 13c are bonded. Therefore, the second lens member 13 moves in the vertical direction (the front-back direction of the optical axis Y) in conjunction with the first lens member 12.

Further, the engagement between the engagement portion 12 e of the first lens member 12 and the engaged portion 13 c of the second lens member 13 causes the first lens member 12 and the second lens member 1 to engage with each other. This prevents the optical axis Y from 3 from shifting.

The image sensor 2 is an image sensor, and includes, for example, a CMOS image sensor, a CCD image sensor, and the like. The lower surface of the rectangular thin plate-shaped imaging device 2 is mounted on the upper surface of the substrate PC. In the center of the upper surface of the imaging element 2, a photoelectric conversion unit 2a as an imaging area in which pixels are two-dimensionally arranged is formed. In the normal non-imaging area 2b, the abutting portion 12c of the first lens member 12 abuts in the non-imaging area 2b, and a processing unit (not shown) is formed. A plurality of pads (not shown) are arranged near the outer edge of the processing unit. The pad, which is a connection terminal, is connected to the board PC via the wire W. The wire W is connected to a predetermined circuit on the board PC.

The mirror frame 3 is a housing made of a light-shielding material, and is arranged outside the optical member 1.

As shown in FIG. 1, the lens frame 3 includes a cylindrical upper portion 3a and a prismatic lower portion 3b.

The lower end of the lower portion 3b of the lens frame 3 is fixed on the substrate PC with an adhesive B.

The inner wall of the lens frame 3 is provided with a protruding portion 3c protruding inward. In the macroscopic imaging mode, the extended portion 12 d of the first lens member 12 abuts on the lower surface of the protruding portion 3 c, so that the first lens member 12 and the laminated second lens member Positioning in the macro imaging mode of 13 is performed. The upper end 11 of the upper part 3 a of the lens frame 3 is composed of a rotating member 5, a light shielding plate 6, an aperture plate 7, and a filter 8.

The rotating member 5 is provided at the uppermost end of the lens frame 3, has a disk shape in accordance with the shape of the upper portion 3a, and is made of a light-transmitting material. The rotating member 5 is provided with two magnets 4 to (a first member of a force switching mechanism or an attractive force generating mechanism) at an interval of 180 degrees along the outer circle. The rotating member 5 is configured to be rotatable so that it can be stopped at a position where the magnet 4 is rotated 90 degrees. Therefore, the presence or absence of the generation of the attraction force between the magnet 4 and the magnetic body 15 can be switched by the rotational movement of the rotating member 5, so that the rotating member 5 functions as a switching means of the force switching mechanism and the attraction force generating mechanism. .

The rotation of the rotary member 5 may be automatically performed by, for example, a driving unit (not shown), or may be manually performed by switching a lever (not shown).

Then, in the normal imaging mode state shown in FIG. 2, the magnet 4 of the rotating member 5 is located at a position shifted by 90 degrees from the magnetic body 15 as shown in the top view of FIG. . On the other hand, in the macro imaging mode state shown in FIG. 3, the upper surface of FIG. As shown in the figure, when the rotating member 5 stops moving at the position rotated by 90 degrees, the 两 positions of the magnet 4 and the magnetic body 15 overlap in the vertical direction parallel to the optical axis Y.

When the rotating member 5 rotates around the optical axis Y to set the macro imaging mode, when the position of the magnet 4 and the position of the magnetic body 15 overlap in the vertical direction, the magnet 4 and the magnetic body 1 The suction force between the first lens member 12 and the first lens member 12 moves upward (forward), as compared with the force of pressing the optical member 1 in the direction of the imaging element 2 by the pressing member 9. The extension 12 d of the first lens member 12 abuts on the lower surface of the projection 3 d of the lens frame 3, and further movement is restricted. Here, the first lens member 12 laminated on the first lens member 12 also moves upward. In this way, by moving the optical member 1 forward (upward) along the optical axis Y, a focal length allowing close-up imaging is formed.

The light shielding plate 6 is attached below the rotating member 5 with an adhesive or the like. The light-shielding plate 6 has an opening 6a as a first stop at the center thereof.

The aperture plate 7 is attached below the light shielding plate 6 with an adhesive or the like. The diaphragm plate 7 is made of a material having a light-shielding property, and has an opening 7 a as a second diaphragm that defines the F number of the second lens portion 13 a of the second lens member 13. .

The filter 8 is made of a material having an infrared absorption characteristic.The light shielding plate 6 and the diaphragm are provided below the opening 6 a formed in the center of the light shielding plate 6 and above the opening 7 a formed in the center of the diaphragm plate 7. It is joined by an adhesive or the like so as to be supported by the plate 7. The pressing member 9 is made of, for example, an elastic member such as a coil spring, and is disposed between the optical member 1 and the diaphragm plate 7. Then, in the normal imaging mode, the aperture plate 7 presses the pressing member 9, and the pressing member 9 is elastically deformed. The pressing member 9 presses the optical member 1 downward with a predetermined pressing force in FIG. 2 to urge the optical member 1 to the image sensor 2. At this time, when a force is applied from the aperture plate 7 to the image sensor 2 below, the pressing member 9 is elastically deformed, so that a gentle action of absorbing the force acts, and the force is applied to the image sensor 2. Is not transmitted, and the image sensor 2 can be protected.

The positioning electric component 10 is, for example, a capacitor, a resistor, a diode, or the like. In FIG. 2, it is arranged between the imaging device 2 on the substrate PC and the mirror frame 3 and close to the mirror frame 3. Also, the height from the substrate PC to the upper end of the positioning electric component 10 is higher than the height from the substrate PC to the upper end of the image sensor 2. The positioning electric component 10 serves as a positioning index of the lens frame 3 when the lens frame 3 is fixed on the substrate PC. Further, since the upper end of the positioning electric component 10 is higher than the upper end of the image sensor 2, the mirror frame 3 is prevented from contacting the image sensor 2 and damaging the wires W of the image sensor 2.

Note that the positioning electric component 10 is not limited to, for example, a capacitor, a resistor, a diode, and the like, and may be any electric component necessary for the imaging device 100.

As described above, in the imaging apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment, the magnet 4 of the rotating member 5 provided on the upper end 11 of the lens frame 3 moves the magnetic body 1 in the vertical direction parallel to the optical axis Y. The optical member 1 does not overlap, and the optical member 1 has a focal length in contact with the image sensor 2 (normal imaging mode) and the rotating member 5 rotates to move the magnet 4 in the vertical direction parallel to the optical axis Y. The optical member 1 moves upward along the optical axis Y due to the overlapping of the two positions of the magnetic member 15 and the magnetic member 15, and the movement from the optical member 1 to the subject is restricted by contacting the protrusion 3 c. In the normal imaging mode, the imaging process (imaging mode) using the two focal lengths of the focal length and the focal length that allows for the imaging of the McMouth aperture, which is shorter than that in the normal imaging mode, becomes possible.

In addition, in the normal imaging mode, the optical member 1 contacts the image sensor 2, and in the macro imaging mode, the optical member 1 is positioned by contacting the protrusion 3c. It is easy to maintain a state where the optical axis Y of 1 and the center of the photoelectric conversion unit 2a of the image sensor 2 coincide with each other, and an accurate optical function is realized.

In addition, since the focal length can be adjusted and the imaging mode can be switched by arranging simple members such as the magnets 4 and the magnetic members 15 and moving the rotating member 5, optics can be performed without reducing manufacturing costs and labor. Multiple functions can be realized.

f¾, the shape, configuration, and the like of the imaging device 100 of the present invention are not limited to the above. For example, in the imaging apparatus 100, the magnet 4 and the magnetic body 15 have been described as an example of the first member and the second member of the force switching mechanism or the attraction force generating mechanism. The optical member 1 may be provided with a magnetic material, and the optical member 1 may be provided with a magnet. Further, the magnet 4 may be an electromagnet, and may be configured to switch the presence / absence of the attraction force between the magnet 4 and the magnetic body 15 according to the supply / non-supply of the current without rotating the rotating member 5. .

In addition, the present invention is not limited to the combination of the magnet 4 and the magnetic body 15 .Both are magnets, and the optical member 1 is moved by using the attraction force and the repulsion force generated therebetween, and the focal length (imaging mode ) May be performed.

Also, a state in which the optical member 1 is pressed in the direction of the image sensor 2 by the pressing member 9 (normal imaging mode), a state in which an attractive force is generated between the magnet 4 and the magnetic body 15 (macro imaging) Mode), but the reverse is the case, for example, when the pressing member 9 is disposed between the image sensor 2 and the optical member 1 and the pressing member 9 is pressed in the direction of the diaphragm plate 7. From the state (macro imaging mode) to the state of moving to the image sensor 2 due to the attraction between the magnet 4 and the magnetic body 15 arranged on the image sensor 2 or the substrate PC ( (Normal imaging mode).

Further, although the optical member 1 has been described as having a configuration including the first lens member 12 and the second lens member 13, the optical member 1 may have a configuration including only one lens member. Note that when the first lens member 12 is manufactured, insert molding may be performed in which the magnetic body 15 is placed in a mold in advance and manufactured.

Next, an imaging device 200 according to a modification of the imaging device 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 7. FIG.

In the following description, components having the same names as those of the components of the imaging device 100 are the same as those of the imaging device 100, unless otherwise specified. FIG. 6 is a partially omitted cross-sectional view of the imaging device 200 in the normal imaging mode, and FIG. 7 is a partially omitted cross-sectional view of the imaging device 200 in the macro imaging mode.

As shown in FIGS. 6 to 7, the second lens member (front optical member) 13 of the optical member 1 in the imaging device 200 is an extension extending in the inner peripheral surface direction of the lens frame 3. The part 13 e is formed. The extended portion 13e abuts on the protruding portion 3c in the macro imaging mode, and the second lens member 13 is positioned by this abutment. A second pressing member (for pressing the second lens member 13 in the direction of the first lens member (post-optical member) 12) between the upper surface of the second lens member 13 and the lower surface of the diaphragm plate 7 (Corresponding to the second pressing member of claim 3).

Further, a magnetic body 17 is disposed between the lower surface of the extension 13 e of the second lens member 13 and the upper surface of the first lens member 12, and the magnet 4 of the rotating member 5 is It is arranged so as to correspond to the position of the magnetic body 17.

Further, a third pressing member for pressing the first lens member 12 downward between the lower surface of the protruding portion 3c and the upper surface of the first lens member 12 (the first pressing member of claim 3). Equivalent) 18 are equipped. The pressing force of the third pressing member 18 is not affected by the change in the positional relationship between the magnet 4 and the magnetic body 17 and the first lens member 1 in both the normal imaging mode and the macro imaging mode. The contact part 1 2c of No. 2 is urged to the non-imaging area 2b of the image sensor 2.

Also, as shown in FIG. 6, in a state where the position of the magnet 4 of the rotating member 5 and the position of the magnetic body 17 do not overlap with each other, the normal imaging mode is set, and the pressing force of the second pressing member 16 is used. The second lens member 13 abuts on the first lens member 12. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, when the moving member 5 rotates and the position of the magnet 4 and the magnetic body 17 overlaps to generate an attractive force, the pressing force of the second pressing member is pushed away. Only the second lens member 13 moves upward, and the extended portion 13 e of the second lens member 13 abuts on the protruding portion 3 c. The positioning of the optical member 1 is performed. In this macro imaging mode, since the second lens member 13 moves in the direction of the subject, the distance to the subject is shorter than in the normal imaging mode, so that close-up shooting and close-up imaging of the subject can be performed. More possible.

As described above, according to the imaging device 200, focus adjustment is performed by moving only one of the two optical members stacked, and imaging processing can be performed in two imaging modes (focal lengths). It becomes.

Also, since the focus adjustment is performed by moving only the second lens member 13, the pressing force for moving is smaller than when both the first lens member 12 and the second lens member 13 are moved. The second pressing member 16 and the third pressing member It is possible to reduce the size of the device 18 and the size of the imaging device 200.

FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are diagrams showing an external configuration of a mobile phone as an example of a mobile terminal device to which the present invention is applied. As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the mobile phone 110 has a first housing 110a and a second housing 110b connected by a hinge joint 110c so as to be openable and closable. It is a folding type formed.

As shown in FIG. 8A, an input unit 112 and a display unit 113, which will be described later, are provided on a surface which is inwardly folded. The input unit 112 is provided with a camera button, function keys, and the like. In addition, as shown in FIG. 8B, the above-described image pickup device 100 is provided toward a surface that becomes outside when folded. As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, an antenna 114a is provided on the upper part of the mobile phone 110. In addition, a power supply control unit 117 such as a charge pack is provided on the rear side inside the second housing 111 Ob.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of mobile phone 110 shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B. As shown in FIG. 9, the mobile phone 110 includes a control unit 111, an input unit 112, a display unit 113, a wireless communication unit 114 having an antenna 114a, a storage unit 115, an imaging device 100, and a power supply. It is provided with a control unit 117, a transmission / reception unit 118, and the like, and each unit is connected by a bus 119.

The control unit 111 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111a, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 111b composed of rewritable semiconductor elements, and a ROM (Read Only) composed of nonvolatile semiconductor memory. Memory) 11 1 c.

The ROM 111c includes basic operation control programs, communication processing programs, display data to be displayed on the display unit 113, and parameter data relating to imaging (not shown) (not shown). In addition to data, default setting data for preview display processing), an imaging control program c1, a code recognition program c2, and code recognition data c3 are stored. Here, the code recognition data c 3 is reference data for setting a code similarity coefficient (Q) for determining whether the image data ′ includes a two-dimensional code as an information code. The CPU 11 a executes a RAMI 11 b program specified from various programs stored in the ROM 11 c in accordance with various instructions input from the input unit 112 or data input from the wireless communication unit 14. Then, various processes are executed in accordance with the above-mentioned program according to the input instruction and the input data. Then, the CPU 11a stores the processing result in a predetermined area of the RAMI 11b and causes the display unit 113 to display the result.

Specifically, the CPU 11a reads out the imaging control program c1 stored in the ROM 11c and executes an imaging control process described later.

As an imaging control process, the CPU 11a controls the imaging device 100 in accordance with a user's operation instruction or the like input from the input unit 112 and stores captured image data in the RAMI 11b in a predetermined memory. Then, the preview is displayed on the display unit 113 at a frame rate of 25 fps.

Further, the CPU 11a executes a code process for recognizing a two-dimensional code object that may be a two-dimensional code on the captured image data according to the code recognition program c2. Specifically, the CPU 11a compares the captured image data with the code recognition data c3 every five frames to determine whether the captured image data contains a two-dimensional code. Make a decision. More specifically, the CPU 11 la calculates the code similarity coefficient for the two-dimensional code object by comparing the captured image data with the code recognition data c 3 as the similarity coefficient calculation information. Recognize two-dimensional code objects (information code objects) and two-dimensional codes that may be two-dimensional codes based on the value of the code similarity coefficient.

Further, when the code similarity coefficient may include a code, but there is a two-dimensional code target that is determined to be a non-deterministic numerical value, the CPU 100 may use the imaging device 100 to perform macro imaging from the normal imaging mode. The driving means for rotating and moving the rotating member 5 is controlled in order to switch to perform the imaging process in the mode.

When the CPU 11a recognizes a two-dimensional code in the captured image data, the CPU 11a decodes the two-dimensional code and causes the display unit 113 to display the two-dimensional code. Also, the CPU 11 la executes an operation based on the information of the decoded information code. The input unit 112 includes a numeric keypad, various function switches, a mode switching switch for switching between a call mode and a camera mode, and the like, and is used for inputting an instruction to execute an imaging process.

The display unit 113 includes an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) panel or the like, and performs a screen display based on display data input from the control unit 11. Further, the display unit 113 displays an image preview-captured by the imaging device 100 described later, code information content decoded by the control unit 111, and the like.

The wireless communication unit 114 includes an antenna 114a for transmitting and receiving a radio signal related to an incoming call and an outgoing call with a wireless base station (not shown), and is input from the control unit 111. According to the instructions, for example, a communication protocol for a mobile phone that supports a communication method conforming to IMT-2000 (for example, W-CDMA or cdma2000) with a radio base station. Is executed, and transmission / reception of transmission / reception voice / data communication is performed using the communication channel set by this communication method.

The storage unit 115 stores data and the like of a processing result executed by the control unit 111. For example, the storage unit 115 stores data of an image captured by the imaging device 100, data of mail transmitted and received via the wireless communication unit 114, data of a call history, and the like.

The imaging device 100 has the configuration described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5, and converts an image input via the optical member 1 into an electric signal by the imaging device 2 to generate image data. I do. Further, the CCD image sensor or the like of the image sensor 2 has a function as an optical sensor for detecting the amount of ambient light, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the amount of ambient light to the control unit 111.

The rotating member 5 of the imaging device 100 is rotated by a driving unit (not shown) driven based on the control of the control unit 111. That is, the imaging device 100 is configured to be able to switch between the normal imaging mode and the macro imaging mode under the control of the control unit 111.

The power control unit 117 is composed of, for example, a secondary battery such as a lithium battery, a nickel battery, and a nickel-cadmium battery. When the power is turned on, the positive terminal and the positive terminal are controlled according to the control of the control unit 111.各 Driving each part of the mobile phone 110 from the negative terminal A power supply of a predetermined voltage is supplied to the drive circuit.

The transmission / reception unit 118 has a microphone, a speaker, an AZD conversion unit, and a D / A conversion unit (none of which are shown), and performs A / D conversion processing on the user's transmission voice input from the microphone. Then, the transmitted voice data is output to the CPU 111a, and the received voice data input from the CPU 111a and the voice data such as the ringtone, the operation confirmation sound, the shirt sound, etc. are subjected to the DZA conversion processing. Output from the speaker.

Hereinafter, the imaging control processing in the mobile phone 110 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

When a predetermined button of the input unit 112 is pressed by the user of the mobile phone 110, the CPU 11a determines that the instruction is an input of an instruction of an imaging process, and the imaging control program c 1 stored in the RO Millc. Is read and expanded in the RAMI 11b, and control of the imaging process is started according to the imaging control program c1. At this time, the user shoots the subject by pointing the imaging device 100 of the mobile phone 110 at the subject.

Then, specifically, the CPU 111a resets the count number of the frame of the image data stored in the RAMI 11b to 0 (N = 0) (step S101), and executes the imaging process in the normal imaging mode. Is output to the imaging device 100. Then, as the imaging process in the normal imaging mode, the imaging device 100 sequentially captures the captured image data of the subject condensed by the optical member 1 and formed on the photoelectric conversion unit 2 a of the imaging element 2. (Step S102).

Then, the CPU 111 of the control unit 111 stores the captured image data sequentially input from the imaging device 100 in the RAM 111b, and displays the captured image on the display unit 113 at a frame rate of 25 fps. Is performed (step S103). In parallel with the execution of the preview display process, the CPU 111a counts the number of frames of the image input from the imaging device 100 (N = N + 1) (step S104), and when the number of frames is “5”, It is determined whether there is (Step S105).

If the CPUlla determines that the number of frames is "5" (step S105: Yes), the process proceeds to step S106, where the number of frames is not five. If it is determined that this is the case (step S105: No), the process proceeds to step S102, and the subsequent steps are repeated.

Next, in step S106 to step S108, the CPU 111a reads out the code recognition program c2 stored in the ROM 111c and expands the code recognition program c2 in the RAM 111b, and this code recognition program c According to 2, the control of the code recognition process is started. Specifically, the CPU lla executes the two-dimensional code recognition process by comparing the captured image data of the subject when the number of frames is “5” with the code recognition data c3.

Here, as a method of the recognition processing, for example, a method of performing recognition by detecting a predetermined cutout symbol indicating a two-dimensional code in the captured image data of the subject, or a method of detecting the density of the captured image data of the subject , And a method of recognizing a predetermined mosaic shape of a two-dimensional code, but are not limited to these.

More specifically, by comparing the captured image data with the code recognition data c3 as similarity coefficient calculation information in step S106, the CPU llla can determine the two-dimensional code of the captured image data. Calculate the code similarity coefficient (Q) for judging gender.

Next, the CPU 111a determines whether or not the calculated value of the code similarity coefficient (Q) is equal to or greater than "0.5" (step S107), and determines that Q is "0. If it is determined that the number is 5 or more (step S107: Yes), it is determined that there is a possibility of a predetermined two-dimensional code, and the process proceeds to step S108.

On the other hand, if the CPU 111a determines that the calculated code similarity coefficient (Q) is less than 0.5 (step S107: No), it is unlikely that the code is a two-dimensional code. After that, the frame count is reset to “0” (N = 0) (Step 109), and then the process proceeds to Step S102, where the preview display processing and the five-frame Repeat the code recognition process.

As described above, the CPU 111a executes a two-dimensional code recognition process on the captured image data of the subject every five frames. Therefore, the processing load of the CPU is reduced, and the captured image data of the subject executed in parallel is obtained. It is possible to reduce the influence on the acquisition processing and the preview display processing of the captured image data.

In step S108, the CPU 111a determines whether the code similarity coefficient (Q) is "1" or not, and determines that the code similarity coefficient (Q) is "1" (step S108: Yes). In step S110, it is determined that the code is a two-dimensional code, and the flow advances to step S110.

On the other hand, if CPU11a determines that the code similarity coefficient (Q) is 1S "0.5" or more but not "1" (step S108: No), the possibility of two-dimensional code Is recognized as a two-dimensional code object (information code object) that is not clear. Then, the CPU lla controls the driving unit (not shown) so as to enable the imaging device 100 to perform macro imaging, and performs a macro imaging mode setting process by rotating the rotating member 5 (Step S). 1 11), proceed to step S109.

In the subsequent steps, as the imaging process in the macro imaging mode, the position of the magnet 4 and the magnetic body 15 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis with the rotation of the rotating member 5 of the imaging device 100 is controlled by the CPU 111a. When the first lens member 12 of the optical member 1 moves forward in the optical axis direction due to the overlap, the optical member 1 and the image sensor 2 are used in a state in which the first lens member 12 of the optical member 1 is in contact with the protrusion 3c. The captured image data of the subject is acquired and displayed on the display unit 113 as a preview. In addition, the CPU 111a executes code recognition processing for every five frames on the captured image data in the macro imaging mode in parallel with the imaging processing and the preview display processing in the macro imaging mode. At this time, since the imaging process in the macro imaging mode is more suitable for the imaging process when the distance to the subject is shorter than the imaging process in the normal imaging mode, the recognition rate of the two-dimensional code is improved. In the imaging mode, there is a high possibility that a two-dimensional code object that is likely to be a two-dimensional code but is not fixed is recognized as a two-dimensional code. Accordingly, the recognition rate of the two-dimensional code in the captured image data of the subject is improved. In step S110, the CPU 111a executes the decoding process of the recognized two-dimensional code, and displays the code information content of the two-dimensional code on the display unit 113 (step S112). Here, the code information content displayed on the display unit 113 is, for example, character information such as a URL address and an e-mail address, and arbitrary image information.

In addition to the contents that can be displayed on the display unit 113 such as character information and image information as code information contents, for example, when the code information contents are audio information, the sound emitting / receiving unit 18 executes sound emission processing. It may be.

Next, the CPU 111a determines whether or not an instruction signal for a predetermined process for the code information content displayed on the display unit 113 has been input by the user operating the input unit 112 (step S1). 13), if it is determined that the instruction signal has been input (Step S113: Yes), the processing corresponding to the instruction is executed (Step S114), and the routine goes to Step S115.

Here, the predetermined processing for the code information content is, for example, when the code information content is a URL address, an instruction to connect to the URL address, and when the code information content is an e-mail address, Instructions for creating an e-mail to the e-mail address, when the code information content is a telephone number, e-mail address, etc., save processing in an address book, etc., and save processing of the display image on the display unit 113, etc. However, the present invention is not limited to these.

On the other hand, when determining in step S113 that there is no input of the instruction signal from the user (step S113: No), the CPU 111a proceeds to step S115.

Then, in step S115, the CPU 111a determines whether or not an instruction to end the imaging process has been input by the operation of the input unit 112 of the user, and when it is determined that the instruction has been input, the imaging device By outputting an end instruction of the imaging process to 100, the imaging control process is ended.

On the other hand, if the CPU 111a determines that the end instruction of the imaging process has not been input (step S115: No), the process proceeds to step S109, and the subsequent processes are repeated. As described above, in the above-described imaging control process, the acquisition process of the captured image data of the subject by the imaging device 100 and the preview display process of the captured image data are performed in parallel with the predetermined two times in the captured image data. Recognition processing of dimension code data and decoding processing of two-dimensional code data are automatically executed. Therefore, the user For example, it is possible to automatically read two-dimensional codes by performing the same operations as in normal imaging processing without having to make complicated settings to recognize and decode two-dimensional codes attached to business cards and magazines. It is very easy to use because it can not be decoded.

Also, for example, if the captured image data in the normal imaging mode is out of focus or contains a lot of noise, it cannot be clearly recognized as a two-dimensional code. Is controlled so that the imaging apparatus 100 is automatically switched to imaging processing in a macro imaging mode suitable for two-dimensional code recognition. Therefore, the recognition accuracy of the two-dimensional code can be improved without imposing a burden on the user for changing the setting of the imaging mode.

In addition, the imaging mode is not switched when the possibility that the two-dimensional code is included in the image data captured in the normal imaging mode is small or when the two-dimensional code is clearly recognized. is there.

The description in the present embodiment is a preferred example of the mobile phone 110 according to the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the moving method of the rotating member 5 of the imaging device 100 may be any method. Further, any method may be used as long as the optical member 1 is moved by an attractive force of a magnet. Also, the imaging device in the present mobile phone 110 has been described with the example in which the above-described imaging device 100 is mounted, but a configuration in which the imaging device 200 which is a modification of the imaging device 100 is mounted. It may be.

In the above description, a two-dimensional code is used as an example of the information code. However, the present invention is not limited to the two-dimensional code. For example, any information code such as a bar code and a color code may be used. May be.

In addition, when the two-dimensional code is decoded in the above-described imaging control processing, the content of the code information is displayed on the display unit 113, and based on a predetermined processing instruction from the user, the two-dimensional code is decoded. Although the description has been given of the configuration for executing various processes according to the information content, the configuration may be such that a predetermined process is automatically executed when the code information content is decoded by the CPU 11la.

In addition, the detailed configuration and detailed operation of mobile phone 110 in the present embodiment can be appropriately changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Further, the mobile terminal device of the present invention is not limited to the mobile phone 110, but may be a personal computer, a PDA, or the like.

Further, it is considered that the imaging device of the present invention can be incorporated in various devices such as a mobile phone, a personal computer, a PDA, an AV device, a television, and home appliances.

Claims

The scope of the claims

1. A substrate provided with an image sensor, an optical member which is in contact with the substrate or the image sensor so as to be able to be separated from the substrate, and covers the image sensor and the optical member. An imaging device having an outer frame member,

A protruding portion provided to protrude from an inner peripheral surface of the frame member and abutting on an optical member that moves forward along an optical axis so as to be separated from the imaging element, and regulates a separation distance of the optical member;

A magnet generates a force to move the optical member in at least one of a forward direction and a rearward direction along the optical axis, and the presence or absence of the force is switched to allow the optical member to contact the substrate or the image sensor. A contact state, and a state in which the optical member is in contact with the protruding portion.

An imaging device comprising:

2. a substrate on which an image sensor is provided, an optical member which is in contact with the substrate or the image sensor so as to be separated from the substrate, and which collects incident light on the image sensor, and covers the image sensor and the optical member. An imaging device comprising: an outer frame member; and a pressing member elastically interposed between a front portion of the outer frame member and the optical member, and pressing the optical member against the substrate or the imaging element. A device,

A magnet for generating a suction force for pulling the optical member forward along the optical axis, and a suction force generation mechanism capable of switching whether or not the suction force is generated;

An imaging device comprising:

3. A substrate provided with an image sensor, an optical member which is in contact with the substrate or the image sensor so as to be separated from the substrate, and which collects incident light on the image sensor, and the image sensor and the optical member. An imaging device having an outer frame member to cover,

In order to configure the optical member, a front optical member and a rear optical member stacked back and forth so that the optical axes are equal; A magnet for generating a suction force for pulling the front optical member forward along the optical axis, and a suction force generation mechanism capable of switching whether or not the suction force is generated; and a protrusion protruding from an inner peripheral surface of the outer frame member. A protruding portion that abuts on the front optical member that moves forward along the optical axis so as to be separated from the image pickup device and regulates a separation distance of the optical member;

An imaging device comprising:

4. The attraction force generating mechanism is attached to a front end of the outer frame member, and includes a first member made of a magnet rotating about an optical axis, and a magnetic body or a magnet attached to the optical member. A second member, a state in which the first member and the second member are overlapped in a vertical direction parallel to an optical axis by rotating the first member, and 4. The imaging device according to claim 2, further comprising: a switching unit configured to switch between a state in which the second member is separated in a vertical direction parallel to the optical axis.

5. The attraction force generating mechanism includes a first member, which is attached to a front end of the outer frame member and is made of a magnetic material or a magnet that rotates around an optical axis, and a magnet attached to the optical member. A second member, by rotating the first member, a state in which the first member and the second member overlap in a vertical direction parallel to an optical axis; and 4. The imaging device according to claim 2, further comprising: a switching unit configured to switch to a state in which the second member is separated in a vertical direction parallel to the optical axis.

6. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the magnet is an electromagnet, and further comprising switching means for switching whether to generate an attraction force depending on whether or not current is supplied to the electromagnet.

7. An imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, Mobile terminal device,