WO2014108425A1

WO2014108425A1 - Optical system for imaging an object and method for operating said optical system

Info

Publication number: WO2014108425A1
Application number: PCT/EP2014/050199
Authority: WO
Inventors: Christian Bach
Original assignee: Carl Zeiss Sports Optics Gmbh
Priority date: 2013-01-11
Filing date: 2014-01-08
Publication date: 2014-07-17
Also published as: DE102013200311B4; DE102013200311B9; DE102013200311A1

Abstract

The invention relates to an optical system for imaging an object and method for operating said optical system. The aim of the invention is to provide a device and a method for detecting slow as well as fast desired and undesired movements of the optical system and which can optionally carry out image stabilization. According to the invention, an optical system with a first lens (14A), a first image stabilizing unit (16A) and a first image plane (23A) is provided and when seen from the first lens (14A) in the direction of the first image plane (23A) are arranged along a first optical axis (10), the first being the first lens (14A), then the first image stabilizing unit (16A) and then the first image plane (23A). Said optical system (1) also comprises a first detection unit (37A) for detecting a desired or an undesired pivoting of the optical system (1) about a first rotational axis, the first detection unit (37A) being provided with a first low pass filter.

Description

Optical system for imaging an object and method for operating the optical system

description

The invention relates to an optical system for imaging an object and to a method for operating the optical system. The optical system is designed to image an object, the optical system having a lens, an image stabilization unit and an image plane. For example, in one embodiment, the optical system is additionally provided with an eyepiece.

The above-mentioned optical system is used, for example, in a telescope or a pair of binoculars. For example, optical systems in the form of binoculars are known, which have two housings in the form of two tubes. In a first tube, a first imaging unit is arranged, which has a first optical axis. In a second tube, a second imaging unit is arranged, which has a second optical axis. In addition, binoculars are known from the prior art, which have a first housing in the form of a first tube having a first optical axis and a second housing in the form of a second tube having a second optical axis. The first housing is connected to the second housing via a buckling bridge, wherein the buckling bridge has a first hinge part arranged on the first housing, and wherein the buckling bridge has a second hinge part arranged on the second housing. The buckling bridge has a bending axis.

If the two housings are pivoted relative to one another about the bending axis, the distance of the two housings from one another changes.

The image captured by the telescope or the binoculars by an observer is often perceived as blurred, since dithering or rotating movements of the user's hands, as well as movements of the background in turn cause movements of the optical system relative to the environment. To avoid this, it is known to stabilize images in an optical system. Sieren. Known solutions use stabilizers to stabilize the image by means of a mechanical device and / or an electronic device. From DE 23 53 101 C3, an optical system in the form of a telescope is known, which has a lens, an image stabilization unit in the form of a prism reversing system and an eyepiece. The prism reversing system is gimballed in a housing of the telescope. This is understood to mean that the prism reversing system is arranged in a housing of the telescope such that the prism reversing system is rotatably mounted about two axes arranged at right angles to one another. For rotatable mounting a device is usually used, which is referred to as Kardanik. A hinge point of the gimbal-mounted in the housing reversing system is arranged centrally between an image-side main plane of the lens and an object-side main plane of the eyepiece. The gimbal-mounted prism reversing system is not moved due to its inertia due to rotational movements occurring. It thus remains firmly in the room. In this way, image degradation caused by movement of the housing is compensated. From DE 39 33 255 C2, a binocular femal glass with an image stabilization unit is known which has a prism reversing system. The prism reversing system has Porro prisms, each having a tilt axis. The Porro prisms are formed pivotable about their respective tilt axis. Engines are provided for pivoting the Porro prisms. The panning is dependent on a dithering motion that causes a wobble of an observed image.

Furthermore, another binocular telescope with a Bildstabiiisierungseinheit is known from US 6,414,793 B1.

It is desirable that the above-described stabilization by means of

Bildstabiiisierungseinheit only with shaking and deliberately intentional

Pivoting movements of an optical system, such as a binoculars, performed in particular to save energy in the operation of the Bildstabili- sierungsseinheit (or the image stabilization units). Shivering movements are usually characterized by high frequencies (for example, in the Range from 4 Hz to 15 Hz). On the other hand, intentional movements are characterized by low frequencies (for example in the range from 0 Hz to 4 Hz). Therefore, it is desirable to distinguish between intentional movements (in which the image is to be stabilized) and unwanted movements (where the image is not to be stabilized). In other words, high frequencies (ie, dithering) and thus image degradation should be compensated for in a desired movement.

US Pat. No. 7,460,154 B2 proposes a device and a method for distinguishing a desired movement from an unwanted movement (in particular a dithering movement). The known device has a sensor for detecting a rotational movement of an optical system, a high-pass filter and an integration unit. By means of the sensor, a detection signal is generated, which is filtered with the high-pass filter. The filtered signal is then integrated with the integration unit for a predetermined time. In order to distinguish a desired movement from an unwanted movement, a limiting frequency is predetermined in the known method for the high-pass filter and a limit output signal is specified for the integration unit. If the cut-off frequency and the limit output signal are exceeded, there is an unwanted movement. In this case, the image is stabilized.

Moreover, it is also known from US Pat. No. 7,460,154 B2 to change the integration time of the integration unit over a predetermined period in order to reduce the deflection of the image stabilization unit to zero. In other words, the integration time is changed such that the output signal of the integration unit is varied such that the deflection of the image stabilization unit is gradually reduced until no deflection of the image stabilization unit takes place. This has the effect that between two modes of operation, namely the stabilization of the image on the one hand (first

Operating mode) and unwanted panning without stabilizing the image on the other hand (second operating mode), an almost seamless transition is made possible so that users of the optical system are not irritated. It will not see a picture with a sudden transition from the first mode of operation to the second mode of operation. However, the known method has one

Disadvantage on. As explained above, the integration time is changed gradually (ie slowly). Accordingly, in the known method, the transition takes place from the first operating mode to the second operating mode (or vice versa) just as slowly. This can lead to problems with very short and sudden unwanted or intentional movements of the optical system, since a fast switching between the two operating modes is not possible quickly.

The invention is therefore based on the object to provide a device and a method that can detect both slow and fast intentional and unwanted movements of an optical system and with which optionally an image stabilization can be performed.

According to the invention, this object is achieved with an optical system having the features of claim 1. A method for operating the optical system is given by the features of claim 13. Further features of the invention will become apparent from the other claims, from the following description and / or from the accompanying figures.

The optical system according to the invention is designed to image an object. The optical system is designed, for example, as a binocular binocular or a binocular telescope. However, it is explicitly pointed out that the invention is not limited to such an optical system.

The optical system according to the invention has at least one first objective, at least one first image stabilization unit and at least one first image plane, wherein, viewed from the first objective in the direction of the first image plane, first the first objective, then the first image stabilization unit and then the first image plane along a first optical Axis are arranged. Accordingly, the aforementioned units are arranged in the following order along the first optical axis: first objective - first image stabilization unit - first image plane.

Furthermore, the optical system according to the invention has at least one first detection unit for detecting a desired or unwanted Verschwen- kung of the optical system about a first axis of rotation. The first axis of rotation is arranged, for example, perpendicular to the first optical axis. In the optical system according to the invention it is now also provided that the first detection unit has at least one first low-pass filter. The invention is based on the surprising finding that a simple and reliable optical system for detecting the type of movement and a corresponding method can be provided by evaluating the properties which directly describe intentional or unintentional pivoting and the corresponding evaluated signals used for image stabilization. It has been recognized that image stabilization is really beneficial when in fact there is no intentional pivoting (more generally, no intentional motion). Image stabilization is therefore carried out in particular when the optical system moves inadvertently. Additionally or alternatively, it is provided that an image stabilization is performed depending on the type of pivoting. Thus, it is provided that an image stabilization over a wide frequency bandwidth only takes place when there is only an unwanted movement. For example, in the case of an unwanted movement, the image stabilization takes place in the frequency bandwidth of 0 Hz to 20 Hz. In the case of intentional slight pivoting, image stabilization in the frequency bandwidth of 5 Hz to 20 Hz can take place in one exemplary embodiment. In the case of an intended stronger pivoting, in one exemplary embodiment additionally or alternatively image stabilization in the frequency bandwidth of 8 Hz to 20 Hz can take place. In the case of a desired fast pivoting, in one exemplary embodiment additionally or alternatively an image stabilization in the frequency bandwidth of 12 Hz to 20 Hz can take place. The aforementioned frequency ranges are to be understood as examples. The stated range limits can take any suitable value.

Accordingly, the properties of the desired motion should be evaluated and the evaluated signals should then be used for image stabilization. This advantage is achieved in that the recognition unit has the above-mentioned low-pass filter or several low-pass filters. This provides or ensure that low frequencies, which has a desired pivoting substantially pass through the low-pass filter unhindered and the further signal processing for image stabilization can be supplied. The high frequencies are filtered out by the low-pass filter. When a movement of the optical system is characterized by a frequency that is above a

Perceptual limit (usually at about 20 Hz), the human eye takes Although no trembling or a flicker more true, but a picture blur due to a movement, which is given by a smearing. However, it is not absolutely necessary to correct this image blur. Therefore, these frequencies are filtered out. They therefore do not contribute to the image stabilization. Thus, basically, only the low frequencies of intentional pivoting provide the basis for image stabilization and serve to control movement of the image stabilization unit.

Another embodiment of the invention is based on the consideration that a deliberate pivoting of the optical system is characterized in particular by two properties. This is the one already mentioned above low frequency of the desired pivoting, but on the other hand, a large amplitude of the desired pivoting. Unwanted pivoting, in particular dithering movements, as a rule, have a much smaller amplitude than desired pivoting of the optical system. It has been recognized that one may additionally or alternatively use the amplitude of the intentional pivoting to determine (detect) the type of movement of the optical system. In this embodiment of the optical system according to the invention it is additionally or alternatively provided that the first detection unit has at least one first integration unit, which is connected downstream of the first low-pass filter. In particular, it is at one

Embodiment of the optical system according to the invention provided that the first integration unit comprises at least a first input line having at least a first input signal and at least a first output line having at least a first output signal, wherein the first output signal is determined by the following equation:

I (t ₂ ) = y ((t,)) - (t,) + a {t,) [Equation 1] where

a (ti) is the first input signal at a first time,

KU) is the first output signal at the first time ti, γ (Σ (ίι)) is a function for controlling a timing of the first output signal to the value zero, which is dependent on the first output signal at the first time t ₁ , as well as

I (t ₂ ) is the first output signal at a second time t ₂ .

For this embodiment, it has surprisingly been recognized that the function γ can be varied in a non-linear manner as a function of the amplitude of the pivoting of the optical system. The integration by means of the integration unit then takes place nonlinearly in such a way that the first output signal of the integration unit leads to a decreasing stabilization by the image stabilization unit, the lower the speed of the pivoting of the optical system and the greater the deflection (amplitude) of the pivoting. In other words, in this way the compensation of the dithering movement (ie the image stabilization due to the dithering movement) is "intrinsically adapted", ie adjusted within the recognition unit as a function of the amplitude of the pivoting of the optical system. Pivoting of the optical system, during the pivoting of the optical system (ie during the movement of the optical system) in the image stabilization substantially or exclusively only higher-frequency movements are filtered out Low-frequency movements are not filtered out and are used for image stabilization.

The faster the pivoting of the optical system is made, the less compensation is made for the pivoting movement (ie image stabilization). This ensures that there is no "transient" transition between a panning mode (that is, a mode with panning and an adjusted image stabilization) and an observation mode (no panning and full image stabilization) when from one of the aforementioned modes to the other In the case of the above-mentioned modes, the image obtained with the optical system remains artifact-free for the user.

In a further embodiment of the optical system according to the invention, it is alternatively or additionally provided that the first output signal of the first output line is determined by the following equation: Σ (ί ₂ ) = F (E (t,}) + afo) [Equation 2] where

a (ti) is the first input signal at the first time ti, which is the first output signal at the first time,

F (Σ () is a function for controlling a timing of the first output signal at the first time to the value zero, which is dependent on the first output signal at the first time, as well

(t ₂ ) is the first output signal at a second time t ₂ .

It has surprisingly been found that this is another way to achieve a non-linear behavior of the integration unit. F is any suitable non-linear function. In one embodiment of the optical system according to the invention, the function F is designed such that the function F increases the function variable of the function F disproportionately. Therefore, the function F is designed as a polynomial function, for example. The above can also be expressed more generally in another embodiment of the optical system according to the invention also as follows. Thus, it is additionally or alternatively provided that the optical system has at least one of the following features:

the function for controlling the control of the first output signal to the value zero is designed to proportionally increase or decrease the first output signal at the first time, or

- The function for controlling the control of the first output signal to the value zero is formed at least 3 times proportional enlargement or reduction of the first output signal at the first time. With regard to the advantages and effects, reference is made above.

In a further embodiment of the optical system according to the invention it is additionally or alternatively provided that the function for controlling the guidance of the first output signal to the value zero for non-linear enlargement or reduction of the first output signal is formed at the first time.

In yet another embodiment of the optical system according to the invention, it is additionally or alternatively provided that the optical system has the following features:

at least one second objective,

at least one second image stabilization unit, and

- At least one second image plane.

It is provided that, viewed from the second objective in the direction of the second image plane, first the second objective, then the second image stabilization unit and then the second image plane are arranged along a second optical axis. Thus, the aforementioned units are arranged in the following order along the second optical axis: second objective - second image stabilization unit - second image plane. The aforementioned embodiment of the optical system is designed, for example, as a binocular optical system, in particular as binocular binoculars or binocular telescope. It therefore has two imaging units, namely a first imaging unit (with the first lens, the first image stabilization unit and the first image plane) and a second imaging unit (with the second lens, the second image stabilization unit and the second image plane).

In a further embodiment, it is additionally provided that the optical system at least one second detection unit for detecting a desired or unwanted pivoting of the optical system by one having second axis of rotation. The second axis of rotation is arranged, for example, perpendicular to the second optical axis. Furthermore, the second detection unit has at least one second low-pass filter and is additionally or alternatively provided with a second integration unit, which is connected downstream of the second low-pass filter. The second integration unit may be formed identically to the first integration unit. The features of the first integration unit have already been explained above, so that reference is made above.

In yet another embodiment of the optical system according to the invention, it is additionally or alternatively provided that the first objective, the first image stabilization unit and the first image plane are arranged in a first housing and that the second objective, the second image stabilization unit and the second image plane in a second Housing are arranged. For example, it is additionally provided that the first

Housing is connected to the second housing via at least one buckling bridge, that the buckling bridge has a arranged on the first housing first hinge part and that the buckling bridge has a arranged on the second housing second hinge part. The buckling bridge has a bent axis. If the two housings are pivoted relative to one another about the bending axis, the distance of the two housings from one another changes.

In yet another embodiment of the optical system according to the invention, the first detection unit has at least one first motion detector for detecting a movement of the optical system. Additionally or alternatively, it is provided that the second detection unit has at least one second motion detector for detecting a movement of the optical system. The first motion detector and / or the second motion detector can be configured, for example, as an angular velocity detector. However, it is explicitly pointed out that the invention is not limited to an angular velocity detector. Rather, any suitable motion detector can be used in the invention. The invention also relates to a method of operating an optical system having at least one of the above or below features or a combination of at least two of the above or below features. In the optical system, a pivoting (or, more generally, a movement) of the optical system is first determined by means of the first detection unit and / or the second detection unit. A corresponding first detection signal of the first detection unit and / or a second detection signal of the second detection unit is / are generated and provided. The first detection signal is filtered by means of the first low-pass filter. A first filter signal is generated, which is used to determine the pivoting as a deliberate or unwanted pivoting. Additionally or alternatively, it is provided that the second detection signal is filtered by means of the second low-pass filter. A second filter signal is generated, which is used to determine the pivoting as a deliberate or unwanted pivoting.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is additionally or alternatively provided that the first filter signal is integrated by means of the first integration unit and that the first output signal is determined by equation 1 or equation 2. Additionally or alternatively, it is provided that the second filter signal is integrated by means of the second integration unit and that the second output signal is determined by equation 1 or equation 2.

The invention will now be described with reference to an embodiment by means of figures. Show

1A is a first schematic representation of an optical system in the form of a binocular with a buckling bridge.

Fig. 1 B is a second schematic representation of the binoculars after

Figure 1A;

Fig. 2A is a schematic representation of a first optical

subsystem; Fig. 2B is a third schematic representation of the binoculars after

Figure 1A;

Fig. 2C is a first sectional view of the binoculars along the line

A-A according to FIG. 2B;

2D is a second sectional view of the binoculars along the

Line A-A according to Figure 2B;

FIG. 2E is an enlarged sectional view of an image stabilizing unit of the binoculars according to FIGS. 2C and 2D; FIG.

3A to 3C are schematic representations of a piezo-bending actuator;

4 shows a schematic representation of a first block diagram of control and measuring units;

Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of another block diagram of control and measuring units of Figure 4; and FIG. 6 shows a schematic representation of low-pass filters.

The invention will be discussed below with reference to an optical system in the form of binocular binoculars 1 (hereinafter referred to as binoculars only). However, it is explicitly pointed out that the invention is not limited to binoculars. Rather, the invention is suitable for any optical system, for example, in a telescope. FIG. 1A shows a first schematic representation of the binoculars 1, which has a tube-shaped first housing part 2 and a tubular second housing part 3. On the other hand, extends through the second housing part 3, a second optical axis 1 1. The first housing part 2 is connected to the second housing part 3 via a buckling bridge 4 with each other through the first housing part 2. The buckling bridge 4 has a first hinge part 5, which is integrally formed on the first housing part 2. Furthermore, the buckling bridge 4 has a second hinge part 6, which is arranged on the second housing part 3. is net. The first hinge part 5 has a first receiving part 7 and a second receiving part 8, between which a third receiving part 9 of the second hinge part 6 is arranged. Through the first receiving part 7, the second receiving part 8 and the third receiving part 9 extends a pivot pin (not shown), so that the relative position of the first housing part 2 and the second housing part 3 about a hinge axis 74 can be adjusted to each other. In this way, it is possible to adjust the first housing part 2 and the second housing part 3 to the pupil distance of a user, so that on the one hand the first housing part 2 is arranged on the one of the two eyes of the user and so that on the other the second housing part 3 at the other of the two eyes of the user is arranged.

FIG. 1B shows a further illustration of the binoculars 1. The first housing part 2 has a first optical subsystem 12. The first optical subsystem 12 is provided with a first objective 14A, with a first image stabilization unit 16A designed as a first prism system and a first eyepiece 17A. At the first eyepiece 17A, a first eye 15A of a user for observing an object O may be arranged. The first optical axis 10 of the first optical subsystem 12 is displaced laterally somewhat due to the first prism system 16A (first image stabilization unit 16A), resulting in a stepped configuration of the first optical axis 10.

The first lens 14A in this embodiment consists of a first front unit 51A and a first focusing unit 52A. Other embodiments of the first lens 14A provide a different number of individual lenses or lenticum lenses. For purposes of focusing the object O viewed through binoculars 1, either the first eyepiece 17A or the first focusing unit 52A may be displaced axially along the first optical axis 10. In another embodiment, the first front unit 51A or even the full first objective 14A is displaced along the first optical axis 10. In another embodiment, the first front unit 51A and the first focusing unit 52A are displaced relative to one another. The second housing part 3 has a second optical subsystem 13. The second optical subsystem 13 is provided with a second lens 14B, with one as Prism system formed second image stabilization unit 16B and provided with a second eyepiece 17B. At the second eyepiece 17B, a second eye 15B of the user for observing the object O can be arranged. The second optical axis 1 1 of the second optical subsystem 13 is displaced laterally somewhat due to the second image stabilization unit 16B (prism system), so that a stepped configuration of the second optical axis 1 1 occurs.

The second lens 14B in this embodiment consists of a second front unit 51B and a second focusing unit 52B. Further embodiments of the second objective 14B provide a different number of individual lenses or cemented lenses made of lenses. For the purpose of focusing the object O viewed through binoculars 1, either the second eyepiece 17B or the second focusing unit 52B may be displaced axially along the second optical axis 1. In a further embodiment, the second front unit 51 B or even the complete second objective 14 B is displaced along the second optical axis 1. In another embodiment, the second front unit 51B and the second focusing unit 52B are displaced relative to each other. In both optical subsystems 12, 13 shown above, the beam direction of the light beams incident on the optical subsystems 12, 13 is as follows: Object O - objective 14A, 14B - image stabilizing unit (prism system) 16A, 16B - eyepiece 17A, 17B - eye 15A, 15B , For focusing is in the embodiment shown here at the

Buckling bridge 4, a rotary knob 53 is arranged, with which the first focusing unit 52A and the second focusing unit 52B can be moved together along the two optical axes 10 and 1 1. In another embodiment, it is contemplated to adjust the first lens 14A and the second lens 14B (or at least units of the first lens 14A and the second lens 14B) relative to one another.

Both the first lens 14A and the second lens 14B generate in the embodiment shown here, a real, relative to the object of interest 0 upside down image in the respective lens 14A, 14B associated image plane. The first prism associated with the first objective 14A mens system 16A (first image stabilizing unit) and the second prism system 16B (second image stabilizing unit) associated with the second lens 14B are used for image erecting. Thus, the upside down image is repositioned and displayed in a new image plane, the left intermediate image plane 23A or the right intermediate image plane 23B. The first prism system 16A (first image stabilization unit) and the second prism system 16B (second image stabilization unit) may be constructed as Abbe-König prism system, Schmidt-Pechan prism system, Uppendahl prism system, Porro prism system or other prism system variant.

In the left intermediate image plane 23A, for example, a field field which sharply delimits the field of vision is arranged. Further, for example, in the right intermediate image plane 23B, a field field sharply defining the field of view may be arranged.

The first eyepiece 17A is used to adjust the image of the left intermediate image plane 23A to any distance, e.g. at infinity or at a different distance. Further, the second eyepiece 17B is used to move the image of the right intermediate image plane 23B to an arbitrary distance, e.g. at infinity or at a different distance.

The first aperture stop 54A of the first optical subsystem 12 and the second aperture stop 54B of the second optical subsystem 13 can either by a socket of an optical element of the corresponding optical subsystem 12, 13, usually through the lens of the first front unit 51 A or the second front unit 51 B, or be formed by a separate aperture. It can be imaged in the beam direction by the corresponding optical subsystem 12 or 13 in a plane which lies in the beam direction behind the corresponding eyepiece 17A or 17B and is typically 5 to 25 mm away from it. This plane is called the plane of the exit pupil.

To protect the user against incident light, a telescopic, turnable or foldable first eyecup 55A may be provided on the first eyepiece 17A and an extendable, turnable or foldable second eyecup 55B may be provided on the second eyepiece 17B. The outer lens 1 has a first detection unit 37A (not shown in FIG. 1B). Furthermore, the binoculars on a second detection unit 37 B (not shown in Figure 1 B). The first recognition unit 37A and the second recognition unit 37B will be discussed in more detail below.

FIG. 2A shows a schematic representation of the first optical subsystem 12, which is arranged in the first housing part 2. The arranged in the second housing part 3 second optical subsystem 3 has an identical structure as the first optical subsystem 12. Thus, the following statements with regard to the first optical subsystem 12 also apply to the second optical subsystem 13.

As can be seen in FIG. 2A, the first objective 14A, the first image stabilizing unit 16A and the first eyepiece 17A are arranged along the first optical axis 10 from the object O in the direction of the first eye 15A of the user. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated here, the first image stabilization unit 16A is designed as a prism reversing system. Alternatively, it is provided in another embodiment that the first image stabilization unit 16A is designed as a lens reversing system. As mentioned above, the second optical subsystem 13 has an identical structure as the first optical subsystem 12. Thus, here the second prism system is designed as a second image stabilization unit 16B.

FIG. 2B shows a further schematic representation of the binoculars 1. FIG. 28 is based on FIG. 1 B. Identical components are provided with the same reference numerals. Figure 2B now also shows the moving devices for the first image stabilizing unit 16A and the second image stabilizing unit 16B. The first image stabilization unit 16A is arranged in a first gimbal 60A. The second image stabilization unit 16B is arranged in a second gimbal 60B.

The arrangement of the two image stabilization units 16A and 16B is shown in more detail in FIG. 2C. The first gimbal 60A has a first outer suspension 61A which is arranged on the first housing part 2 via a first axis 18A. The first outer suspension 61A is rotatably disposed about the first axis 18A. Furthermore, the first gimbal 60A has a first inner suspension. 62A, which is rotatably arranged on a second axis 19A on the first outer suspension 61A. Via a first drive unit 24A, the first inner suspension 62A is rotated about the second axis 19A. Further, a second drive unit 24B is provided, by means of which the first outer suspension 61A is rotated about the first axis 18A. Figure 2E shows the above in an enlarged view. The first image stabilizing unit 16A is held on the first inner suspension 62A by means of clamp holders 71.

The second image stabilization unit 16B is arranged on the second gimbal 60B. The second gimbal 60B has a second outer suspension 61 B, which is disposed on the second housing part 3 via a third axis 18B. The second outer suspension 61 B is rotatably disposed about the third axis 18 B. Further, the second gimbal 60B has a second inner suspension 62B which is rotatably disposed on the second outer suspension 61B via a fourth axis 19B. Via a third drive unit 24C, the second inner

Suspension 62B is rotated about the fourth axis 19B. Further, a fourth drive unit 24D is provided, by means of which the second outer suspension 61 B is rotated about the third axis 18B. As mentioned above, FIG. 2A shows the first optical subsystem 12. The first image stabilizing unit 16A is arranged by means of the first gimbals 60A such that it is rotatably mounted about two mutually orthogonal axes, namely about the first axis 18A and about the second axis 19A , which protrudes into the leaf level. The first axis 18A and the second axis 19A intersect at a first intersection 20A. The first intersection 20A is arranged differently from a first optically neutral point on the first optical axis 10.

As mentioned above, the comments made above and below regarding the first optical subsystem 12 for the second optical subsystem 13 apply accordingly.

FIGS. 3A-3C show schematic representations of a drive unit 24 in the form of a piezo-bending actuator, wherein an actuator is understood as an actuating element which can generate a force or a movement. In the

Literature is often called such an actuator as an actuator. The first Drive unit 24A, second drive unit 24B, third drive unit 24C, and fourth drive unit 24D are constructed, for example, identically to drive unit 24. FIG. 3A shows a schematic representation of the drive unit 24. The drive unit 24 has a first piezoceramic 25 and a second piezoceramic 26, which are arranged on top of each other. Via a voltage unit 27, both the first piezoceramic 25 and the second piezoceramic 26 can be supplied with a voltage. In other words, a first voltage is applied to the first piezoceramic 25, and a second voltage is applied to the second piezoceramic 26. The two aforementioned stresses on the first piezoceramic 25 and on the second piezoceramic 26 are switched in opposite polarity, so that, for example, the first piezoceramic 25 expands and, secondly, the second piezoceramic 26 contracts. This bends the overall arrangement of the first piezoceramic 25 and the second piezoceramic 26, as shown in Figures 3B and 3C. These movements are now used to move the first image stabilizing unit 16A or the second image stabilizing unit 16B. It is explicitly pointed out that the invention is not limited to the described drive unit 24 in the form of a piezo-bending actuator. Rather, any type of drive units can be used, which for the

Performing a movement of the first image stabilization unit 16A or the second image stabilization unit 16B are suitable. This also applies

Drive units that do not work on the basis of piezo technology. Other suitable drive units based on the piezoelectric technique are for example a piezo linear actuator, a piezo traveling wave actuator or an ultrasonic motor.

It is provided that the movement of the first image stabilization unit 16A or the second image stabilization unit 16B and thus also the position

(Rotational position) of the first image stabilizing unit 16A or the second image stabilizing unit 16B are monitored with at least one sensor. For example, a first sensor for movement relative to the first axis 18A and a second sensor for movement relative to the second axis 19A are provided. Additionally or alternatively, a third sensor is for movement relative to the third axis 18B and a fourth sensor for movement relative to the fourth Axis 19B provided. For example, a Hall sensor is used as the sensor. The invention is not limited to this type of sensors. Rather, any suitable type of sensor and any suitable number of sensors may be used. The aforementioned sensor serves to improve the quality of image stabilization. It is explicitly pointed out that the invention is not limited to the use of such a sensor. Rather, no sensor can be provided in the invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the control and measurement unit of the binoculars 1. The illustrated embodiment has two detection units, namely the first detection unit 37A and the second detection unit 37B. The first detection unit 37A is connected to a first angular velocity detector 38, to the first gimbals 60A of the first image stabilization unit 16A, to the first drive unit 24A, and to the second drive unit 24B. The first detection unit 37A is arranged, for example, in the first housing part 2. The second detection unit 37B is connected to a second angular velocity detector 39, to the second gimbals 60B of the second image stabilization unit 16B, to the third drive unit 24C, and to the fourth drive unit 24D. The second detection unit 37B is arranged, for example, in the second housing part 3. A buckling bridge sensor 40 (see Figure 1 B) is connected to both the first detection unit 37A and the second detection unit 37B. In addition, the first angular velocity detector 38 is connected to the second detection unit 37B. Further, the second angular velocity detector 39 is connected to the first detection unit 37A. Accordingly, this embodiment uses a separate detection unit on the one hand for the first optical subsystem 12 in the first housing part 2 and on the other hand for the second optical subsystem 13 in the second housing part 3, although the angular velocity detectors 38, 39 for detecting movements of the binoculars 1 be shared.

The first angular velocity detector 38 and the second angular velocity detector 39 are used to detect movements, in particular pivoting, of the binoculars 1. For example, they delect rotational and / or translational jitter movements, but also deliberate pivoting of the binoculars 1 about at least one axis. Such a deliberate Verschwen- kung occurs, for example, in the tracking of an observed, moving object O.

As noted above, the binoculars 1 has a buckling bridge sensor 40. The use of the buckling bridge sensor 40 has the following background. The relative position of the axes of rotation (namely, first axis 18A and second axis 19A of the first image stabilizing unit 16A and the third axis 18B and the fourth axis 19B of the second image stabilizing unit 16B) changes when the eyepoint is adjusted via the bending bridge 4. In order to achieve accurate adjustment of the rotational movement of the first image stabilizing unit 16A relative to the second image stabilizing unit 16B for image stabilization by positioning the first image stabilizing unit 16A and the second image stabilizing unit 16B, it is desirable to know the exact relative position of the respective rotational axes. The buckling bridge sensor 40 now determines a so-called buckling bridge angle α between a first hinge part axis 72 of the first hinge part 5 and a second one

Hinge part axis 73 of the second hinge part 6, wherein the first hinge part axis 72 and the second hinge part axis 73 have a common point of intersection with the hinge axis 74 (see Figures 2C and 2D). In this case, it is provided, for example, to determine the actual buckling bridge angle α by means of the buckling bridge sensor 40, which will be explained below. For example, the buckling angle α in the figure 2C, in which the first axis 18A and the third axis 18B are arranged parallel to each other, already 175 °. An orientation of the first hinge part axis 72 and the second hinge part axis 73 is shown in FIG. 2D, in which the buckling bridge angle α is 145 °, for example. Then the actual buckling bridge angle α with respect to the first axis 18A and the third axis 18B is the difference between the two measured buckling bridge angles, ie 30 °. The buckling bridge angle determined in this or a similar way now permits a transformation of coordinates of a first coordinate system of structural units of the first housing part 2 into coordinates of a second coordinate system of structural units of the second housing part 3.

FIG. 5 shows a further block diagram, which is based on FIG.

Same units are provided with the same reference numerals. Figure 5 illustrates the relationship of the angular velocity detectors 38 and 39, the Recognition units 37A and 37B and the drive units 24A to 24D. As already mentioned above, the first detection unit 37A is connected to the first angular velocity detector 38. The first detection unit 37A has a first low-pass filter 80A which is directly connected to the first angular velocity detector 38. A first analog-to-digital converter 81A is connected downstream of the first low-pass filter 80A. Furthermore, a first integration unit 82A is connected downstream of the first analog-to-digital converter 81A. In addition, the first detection unit 37A has a first operation mode switch 83A and a first parameter unit 84A. The first parameter unit 84A is connected to the first integration unit 82A and is connected between the first operation mode switch 83A and the first integration unit 82A. It has also already been mentioned above that the second detection unit 37B is connected to the second angular velocity detector 39. The second

Detection unit 37 B has a second Täefpassfilter 80 B, which is directly connected to the second angular velocity detector 39. A second analog-to-digital converter 81 B is connected downstream of the second low-pass filter 80B. Furthermore, a second integration unit 82 B is connected downstream of the second analog-to-digital converter 81 B. In addition, the second detection unit 37B has a second operation mode switch 83B and a second parameter unit 84B. The second parameter unit 84B is connected to the second integration unit 82B and is connected between the second operation mode switch 83B and the second integration unit 82B.

The type of the two low-pass filters 80A and 80B is arbitrary. In a particular embodiment of the binoculars 1, however, it is intended to use a combination of an electrical low-pass filter, a digital low-pass filter and a digital first-order shelving filter, wherein the aforementioned filters are connected in series. In this combination of filters is advantageous that a delay of the input signal of the combination of the aforementioned filter and the output signal of the combination of the aforementioned filter of 45 °. Pure low-pass filters have a delay of 90 °. A slight delay is advantageous in order to achieve image stabilization in "real time." In the embodiment of the binoculars 1 shown here, it is now provided that the type of pivoting (that is to say an unintentional pivoting or a pivoting) is used intentional pivoting) and to perform an image stabilization based on the detected and determined type of pivoting.

For this purpose, an angular velocity due to a movement of the binoculars 1 relative to the observed environment is first detected by means of the first angular velocity detector 38 and the second angular velocity detector 39. The first angular velocity detector 38 and the second angular velocity detector 39 provide motion dependent angular velocity signals. The angular velocity signal of the first angular velocity detector 38 is supplied to the first detection unit 37A. The angular velocity signal of the second angular velocity detector 39 is supplied to the second detection unit 37B. More specifically, the angular velocity signal of the first angular velocity detector 38 is supplied to the first low-pass filter 80A, and the angular velocity signal of the second angular velocity detector 39 is supplied to the second low-pass filter 80B.

These two low-pass filters 80A and 80B ensure that frequencies up to 20 Hz pass unhindered through the two low-pass filters 80A and 80B and can be supplied to the further signal processing for image stabilization. The high frequencies which are above the frequency range to be stabilized are filtered out by the two low-pass filters 80A and 80B. They therefore do not contribute to the image stabilization. Now, how the first detection unit 37A is used will be explained below. Since the second detection unit 37B is identical to the first detection unit 37A, the following applies analogously to the second detection unit 37B. The filtered signal of the first low-pass filter 80A is forwarded to the first integration unit 82A via the first analog-to-digital converter 81A. The output signal of the first integration unit 82A is determined by Equation 1, which is reproduced below: Σ (ί ₂ ) = Σ (ί ₁ )) · Σ (ί ₁ ) + a {t) [Equation 1]

With regard to the meaning of the individual variables of equation 1, reference is made above.

The function γ can be set in the first parameter unit 84A by operating the first operation mode switch 83A. By a certain choice of the function γ the properties of the image stabilization can be adjusted. For example, it can be selected how long an image stabilization is to take place or whether image stabilization is to take place only with a pivoting from a limiting amplitude.

In one embodiment of the invention, the function γ is given, for example, as follows:

γ {Σ) = - y ₂ lsignum {) [Equation 3]

γ, is an arbitrary parameter that determines how fast the output of the first small amplitude integration unit 82A of the swivels drops back to zero. If a small parameter γ is selected (for example in the range of 0.1), only higher frequencies remaining in the signal are used for the image stabilization. If the parameter γι is close to 1 (for example, 0.9), then basically all the remaining frequencies in the signal are used for the image stabilization.

y ₂ is also a freely selectable parameter that determines how strong the influence of the amplitude of the pivoting of the binoculars 1 is on the frequency response. At small values of y ₂ (for example, 0.1), high magnitudes still cause higher frequencies remaining in the signal to be used for image stabilization. If the parameter γ _{2 is} large, then this already happens at small Amplitudes (for example, when γ _{2 is} in the range of 1, in particular at about 0.9).

For the Signum function in Equation 3: signum (x) = 1 for x greater than or equal to 0 and signum (x) = -1 for x less than 0.

As already mentioned above, the output signal of the first integration unit 82A can also be determined by equation 2, which is reproduced below:

Σ (ί ₂ ) = Ρ (Σ (ί ₁ )) + α (ί ₁ ) [Equation 2]

The function F can be defined in an embodiment of the binoculars 1 analogous to equation 3, that is by:

F (Z) = - Y ^ Lsignum {)) L [Equation 4]

With regard to the meaning of the variables, reference is made to above. Furthermore, what has already been said about Equation 3 also applies to Equation 4.

The function F can be, for example, a polynomial, in particular in the form

F {x) = P {x) where

Ρ {χ) = Σ {γ _η - χ ^η - Βί ₉ {χ, η))

0

With sig (x, n) = 1 for n = 0, 2, 4, 6 ...

sig (x, n) = 1 for x> Q and n = 1, 3, 5, 1 ....

sig (x, n) = -1 for x <0 and n = 1, 3, 5, 7, ...

The output signal of the first integration unit 82A is then directed to the first drive unit 24A and the second drive unit 24B, so that the first gimbal 60A for image stabilization is driven. Rotation angles about the rotation axes of the first image stabilizing unit 16A (for example, the first axis 18A and the second axis 19A) are detected. The determined angles of rotation are then converted into first correction angles by which the first image stabilization unit 16A has to be rotated in order to be positioned in space.

In a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that at least one of the preceding and / or following angular velocity detectors is replaced by an acceleration detector. By integration over a predeterminable time you get then also the speed.

With regard to the advantages of the invention, reference is expressly made to the above.

FIG. 6 shows a schematic representation of the first low-pass filter 80A and the second low-pass filter 80B. The first low-pass filter 80A is a combination of an electric low-pass filter 100A, a digital low-pass filter 101A, and a first-order digital shelving filter 102A, the aforementioned filters being connected in series. The second low-pass filter 80B is a combination of an electric low-pass filter 100B, a digital low-pass filter 10 Β and a first-order digital shelving filter 102B, the aforementioned filters being connected in series.

The features of the invention disclosed in the present description, in the drawings and in the claims may be essential both individually and in any desired combinations for the realization of the invention in its various embodiments. LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1 pair of binoculars

2 first housing part

3 second housing part

4 kink bridge

5 first hinge part

6 second hinge part

7 first receiving part

8 second receiving part

9 third recording part

10 first optical axis

1 1 second optical axis

12 first optical subsystem

13 second optical subsystem

14A first lens

14B second lens

5A first eye

15B second eye

16A first image stabilizing unit (first prism system)

16B second image stabilization unit (second prism system)

17A first eyepiece

17B second eyepiece

18A first axle

18B third axis

19A second axis

19B fourth axle

20A first intersection

21 first entrance area

22 first exit surface

23A left intermediate image plane

23B right intermediate image plane

24 drive unit (piezo bending actuator)

24A first drive unit

24B second drive unit

24C third drive unit 24D fourth drive unit

25 first piezoceramic

26 second piezoceramic

27 tension unit

37A first detection unit

37B second detection unit

38 first angular velocity detector

39 second angular velocity detector 40 buckling bridge sensor

51A first front unit

51 B second front unit

52A first focusing unit

52B second focusing unit

53 knob

54A first aperture stop

54B second aperture stop

55A first eyecup

55B second eyecup

60A first gimbal

60B second gimbal

61A first outer suspension

61 B second outer suspension

62A first inner suspension

62B second inner suspension

71 clamp holder

72 first hinge part axis

73 second hinge part axis

74 joint axis

80A first low-pass filter

80B second low-pass filter

81A first analog-to-digital converter 81 B second analog-to-digital converter

82A first integration unit

82B second integration unit

83A first operation mode switch

83B second operation mode switch

84A first parameter unit

84B second parameter unit

100A electrical low-pass filter

100B electrical low-pass filter

101A digital low pass filter

101 B digital low-pass filter

102A first order digital shelving filter

102B first order digital shelving filter

O object

Claims

claims

1. Optical system (1) for imaging an object (O), with

at least one first objective (14A),

at least one first image stabilization unit (16A),

- At least a first image plane (23A), wherein seen from the first lens (14A) in the direction of the first image plane (23A) first, the first

Lens (14A), then the first image stabilization unit (16A) and then the first image plane (23A) along a first optical axis (10) are arranged, and with

at least one first detection unit (37A) for detecting a deliberate or unwanted pivoting of the optical system (1) about a first axis of rotation,

characterized,

in that the first recognition unit (37A) has at least one first low-pass filter (80A).

The optical system (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first low-pass filter (80A) is a combination of an electric low-pass filter, a digital low-pass filter and a first-order digital shelving filter.

3. Optical system (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the electrical low-pass filter, the digital low-pass filter and the first-order digital shelving filter are connected in series. Optical system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first detection unit (37A) has at least one first integration unit (82A) which is connected downstream of the first low-pass filter (80A).

An optical system (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the first integration unit (82A) comprises at least a first input line having at least a first input signal and at least a first output line having at least a first output signal, the first output signal being determined by the following equation :

in which

a () is the first input signal at a first time ti,

I (ti) is the first output at the first time ti, γ (I (ti)) is a function for controlling a timing of the first output to zero, which is dependent on the first output, and

I (t ₂ ) is the first output signal at a second time t ₂ .

An optical system (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the first integration unit (37A) comprises at least a first input line having at least a first input signal and at least a first output line having at least a first output signal, the first output signal being determined by the following equation : F ((t,)) + a (t,) where

a (ti) is the first input signal at a first time

Σ (ίι) is the first output signal at the first time ti,

F (I (t,)) is a function for controlling a timing of the first output signal to the value zero, which is dependent on the first output signal, as well as

Z (t ₂ ) is the first output signal at a second time t ₂ .

Optical system (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the optical system (1) has at least one of the following features:

- The function for controlling the guidance of the first output signal to the value zero is formed for the proportional enlargement or reduction of the first output signal at the first time, or

- The function for controlling the control of the first output signal to the value zero is formed at least 3 times proportional enlargement or reduction of the first output signal at the first time.

An optical system (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the function for controlling the routing of the first output signal to the value zero for non-linear enlargement or reduction of the first output signal is formed at the first time.

Optical system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the optical system (1) has the following features: at least one second objective (14B),

at least one second image stabilization unit (16B), and

at least one second image plane (23B), the second objective (14B) seen from the second objective (14B) in the direction of the second image plane (23B), then the second image stabilization unit (16B) and then the second image plane (23B) a second optical axis (1 1) are arranged.

Optical system (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that

the optical system (1) has at least one second detection unit (37B) for detecting a deliberate or unwanted pivoting of the optical system (1) about a second axis of rotation,

- The second detection unit (37 B) has at least one second low-pass filter (80 B), and that

- The second detection unit (37 B) has at least one second integration unit (82 B), which is connected downstream of the second low-pass filter (80 B).

1 1. An optical system (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that the second low-pass filter (80B) is a combination of a low-pass electrical filter, a digital low-pass filter and a first-order digital shelving filter.

12. Optical system (1) according to claim 1 1, characterized in that the electrical low-pass filter, the digital low-pass filter and the first-order digital shelving filter are connected in series.

13. Optical system (1) according to one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that

- The first lens (14A), the first image stabilizing unit (16A) and the first image plane (23A) in a first housing (2) are arranged, and that

- The second lens (14 B), the second image stabilization unit (16 B) and the second image plane (23 B) are arranged in a second housing (3).

14. Optical system (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that

the first housing (2) is connected to the second housing (3) via at least one articulated bridge (4),

- The buckling bridge (4) has a on the first housing (2) arranged first hinge part (5), and that

- The buckling bridge (4) has a second housing (2) arranged second hinge part (6).

15. Optical system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first detection unit (37A) is connected to at least one first motion detector (38) for detecting a movement of the optical system (1).

16. Optical system (1) according to one of claims 10 to 15, characterized in that the second detection unit (37B) is connected to at least one second motion detector (3) for detecting a movement of the optical system (1).

17. A method for operating an optical system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, with a

Detecting a pivoting of the optical system (1) by means of the first detection unit (37A) and providing a first detection signal,

characterized in that

- The first detection signal is filtered by means of the first low-pass filter (80A) and a first filter signal is generated, and that

- The first filter signal for determining the pivoting is used as a deliberate or unwanted pivoting.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that the first

Filter signal is integrated by means of the first integration unit (82A) and that the first output signal by the equation according to claim 5 or 6 is determined.

* * * * * * *