JP2002099019A - Driving mechanism and hand shake preventing mechanism utilizing shape memory alloy string - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a driving mechanism and hand shake preventing mechanism utilizing a shape memory alloy string where shortening of the service life of the shape memory alloy string can be prevented. SOLUTION: In the device, the shape memory alloy string 102 is installed to be approximately perpendicular to a mobile plane of a mobile member 50 that is installed to be freely movable in an arbitrary direction within a plane against a still member and its both ends are fixed in a state bent by being abutted against the mobile member 50.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a drive mechanism and a camera shake preventing mechanism using a shape memory alloy string, and more particularly to an arrangement of a shape memory alloy string suitable for driving a camera shake mechanism of an optical device such as binoculars.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, various hand-shake prevention mechanisms for correcting hand-shake of optical equipment have been proposed, and those for driving a correction optical system are classified into a variable apex angle prism type and a lens parallel movement type. Many of the latter lens translation types are thrust driven by a swing coil or lever driven by a motor. Both employ electromagnetic drive, and their responsiveness is very good. However, electromagnetic drive
The driving force per volume is small, and the whole device inevitably becomes large. Therefore, it becomes an obstacle in small optical devices such as binoculars.

[0003] To improve this, there has been proposed a wire-shaped shape memory alloy (SMA), that is, a wire utilizing a shape memory alloy string.

[0004]

Since the shape memory alloy cord has a small displacement due to heating, it is necessary to increase the length of the shape memory alloy cord or to change the displacement in order to improve the displacement. There is. If the length of the shape memory alloy string is increased, the size of the device is increased, so that a variable power mechanism is often used. However, when the magnification is changed by the lever, the frictional load corresponding to the shaft pressure increases, the efficiency is low, and an extra volume is occupied.

As a method for solving this problem, there is a method in which a shape memory alloy string is brought into contact with a moving body and bent into a “<” shape. This is the case when the movement is limited to one direction, but when the moving body moves freely, the contact position between the moving body and the moving body shifts, and the life of the shape memory alloy string is significantly reduced.

Accordingly, a technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a drive mechanism and a camera shake prevention mechanism using a shape memory alloy string, which can prevent the life of the shape memory alloy string from being shortened. .

[0007]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In order to solve the above technical problems, the present invention provides a drive mechanism using a shape memory alloy string having the following structure.

A drive mechanism using a shape memory alloy string is of a type that uses a shape memory alloy string to move a moving member that is movable in an arbitrary direction in a plane with respect to a stationary member. The shape memory alloy string is disposed substantially perpendicular to the moving plane of the moving member, and both ends thereof are fixed in a state of being bent by contacting the moving member.

In the above-mentioned structure, the shape memory alloy string is expanded and contracted by utilizing the shape memory effect by the flow of heat by the heating and cooling of the shape memory alloy string. For example, an electric current is applied to the shape memory alloy string, and the string is heated with Joule heat.

In the above configuration, when the shape memory alloy string expands and contracts, the contact position between the shape memory alloy string and the moving member is displaced in a direction substantially perpendicular to the shape memory alloy string, and the moving member is moved in this displacement direction. be able to.

According to the above configuration, even if the moving member moves in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the moving member is moved by the shape memory alloy string, the moving member moves in a direction substantially perpendicular to the shape memory alloy string. Therefore, the shape memory alloy string can be pulled and the shape memory alloy string can be extended without shifting the contact position of the moving member with the shape memory alloy string. That is,
Even if the moving member moves, the moving member can be prevented from moving while rubbing against the shape memory alloy string.

Therefore, it is possible to prevent the life of the shape memory alloy string from being shortened.

Further, if the shape memory alloy string is arranged substantially perpendicular to the moving plane of the moving member, it is necessary to arrange the shape memory alloy string when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the moving plane of the moving member. Space can be made as small as possible.

Preferably, in the shape memory alloy string, the both ends are fixed to a fixed position with respect to the stationary member, and the vicinity of the center between both ends abuts on the moving member.

In the above configuration, both ends of the shape memory alloy string may be fixed directly to the stationary member or may be fixed via another member.

According to the above configuration, since the shape memory alloy string has the same length on both sides of the contact position with the moving member, even if the shape memory alloy string expands and contracts, the moving member moves with respect to the shape memory alloy string. By preventing the contact position from shifting in the extending direction of the shape memory alloy string, it is possible to prevent the life of the shape memory alloy string from being shortened. Further, the force is applied to the moving member only in the direction of the moving surface of the moving member due to the expansion and contraction of the shape memory alloy string, so that the moving member can be stably moved.

Preferably, the moving distance of the moving member with respect to the length of the shape memory alloy string is greater than the length of the shape memory alloy string.

According to the above configuration, even if the shape memory alloy string is short, the moving distance of the moving member is long, so that it is efficient. It is also possible to make it small.

Further, the present invention provides a camera shake preventing mechanism using a shape memory alloy string having the following configuration.

The camera shake prevention mechanism using a shape memory alloy string is a camera shake prevention mechanism of a type in which a correction lens holding member for holding a correction lens is movably arranged in an arbitrary direction in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis. It has a shape memory alloy string. The shape memory alloy string is disposed substantially parallel to the optical axis, and both ends thereof are fixed in a state of being bent in contact with the correction lens holding member.

In the above structure, when the shape memory alloy string expands and contracts, the contact position between the shape memory alloy string and the correction lens holding member is displaced in a direction substantially perpendicular to the shape memory alloy string, and the correction lens holding member is held in this displacement direction. The member can be moved.

According to the above configuration, since the correction lens holding member is movably arranged in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the correction lens, the correction lens holding member is moved in the direction in which the correction lens holding member is moved by the shape memory alloy string. Even if the correction lens holding member moves in the perpendicular direction, the correction lens holding member moves in a direction substantially perpendicular to the shape memory alloy string, so that the contact position of the correction lens holding member with respect to the shape memory alloy string does not shift, The shape memory alloy string can be pulled and stretched.
That is, even if the correction lens holding member moves, the correction lens holding member can be prevented from moving while rubbing against the shape memory alloy string.

Therefore, it is possible to prevent the life of the shape memory alloy string from being shortened.

Further, if the shape memory alloy string is arranged substantially perpendicular to the moving plane of the correction lens holding member, the shape memory alloy string is arranged when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the moving plane of the correction lens holding member. The space required for this can be reduced as much as possible.

Preferably, the ends of the shape memory alloy string are fixed at fixed positions with respect to the stationary member, and the vicinity of the center between both ends abuts on the correction lens holding member.

In the above configuration, both ends of the shape memory alloy string may be directly fixed to the stationary member or may be fixed via another member.

According to the above configuration, the shape memory alloy string has the same length on both sides of the contact position with the correction lens holding member. By preventing the contact position of the lens holding member from shifting in the extending direction of the shape memory alloy string, it is possible to prevent the life of the shape memory alloy string from being shortened. In addition, a force acts on the correction lens holding member only in the moving surface direction of the correction lens holding member due to expansion and contraction of the shape memory alloy string, so that the correction lens holding member can be stably moved.

Preferably, the moving distance of the correction lens holding member with respect to the length of the shape memory alloy cord is larger than the length of the shape memory alloy cord.

According to the above configuration, even if the shape memory alloy string is short, the moving distance of the correction lens holding member is long, so that it is efficient. It is also possible to make it small.

Further, the present invention provides a camera shake preventing mechanism for binoculars using a shape memory alloy string having the following configuration.

A camera-shake prevention mechanism for binoculars using a shape memory alloy cord is of a type in which a correction lens holding member for holding a pair of correction lenses is movably arranged in an arbitrary direction in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis. Yes, with a shape memory alloy string.
The shape memory alloy string is disposed substantially parallel to the optical axis, in a state of being bent in contact with the correction lens holding member in a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction connecting the pair of correction lenses,
Both ends are fixed.

In the above configuration, when the shape memory alloy string expands and contracts, the contact position between the shape memory alloy string and the correction lens holding member is displaced in a direction substantially perpendicular to the shape memory alloy string, and the correction lens holding member is held in this displacement direction. The member can be moved. That is, the correction lens holding member can be moved in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction connecting the pair of correction lenses.

According to the above configuration, since the correction lens holding member is movably disposed within a plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the correction lens, the correction lens holding member is moved in the direction in which the correction lens holding member is moved by the shape memory alloy string. Even if the correction lens holding member moves in the perpendicular direction, the correction lens holding member moves in a direction substantially perpendicular to the shape memory alloy string, so that the contact position of the correction lens holding member with respect to the shape memory alloy string does not shift, The shape memory alloy string can be pulled and stretched.
That is, even if the correction lens holding member moves, the correction lens holding member can be prevented from moving while rubbing against the shape memory alloy string.

Therefore, it is possible to prevent the life of the shape memory alloy string from being shortened.

Further, if the shape memory alloy string is arranged substantially perpendicular to the moving plane of the correction lens holding member, the shape memory alloy string is arranged when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the moving plane of the correction lens holding member. The space required for this can be reduced as much as possible. Further, it is also possible to arrange the shape memory alloy string in a space formed between the pair of correction lenses, and to reduce the overall configuration.

Preferably, the ends of the shape memory alloy string are fixed at fixed positions with respect to the stationary member, and the vicinity of the center between both ends abuts on the correction lens holding member.

In the above configuration, both ends of the shape memory alloy string may be fixed directly to the stationary member, or may be fixed via another member.

According to the above configuration, the shape memory alloy string has the same length on both sides of the contact position with the correction lens holding member. By preventing the contact position of the lens holding member from shifting in the extending direction of the shape memory alloy string, it is possible to prevent the life of the shape memory alloy string from being shortened. In addition, a force acts on the correction lens holding member only in the moving surface direction of the correction lens holding member due to expansion and contraction of the shape memory alloy string, so that the correction lens holding member can be stably moved.

Preferably, an intermediate member and a second shape memory alloy string are provided. The intermediate member is movably disposed in a direction connecting the pair of correction lenses in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis. The intermediate member supports the correction lens holding member movably in a direction perpendicular to a direction connecting the pair of correction lenses in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis. The second shape memory alloy string is disposed in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and both ends thereof are fixed in a state where the second shape memory alloy string is bent in contact with the intermediate member in a direction connecting the pair of correction lenses.

According to the above configuration, the intermediate member moves only in the direction connecting the pair of correction lenses. Therefore, even if the second shape memory alloy string is arranged in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis, the shape memory alloy The abutment position of the intermediate member on the string does not deviate. Further, since the correction lens holding member is movably supported via the intermediate member, the correction lens holding member can be configured not to spread in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and the camera shake preventing mechanism can be reduced in size.

Preferably, the moving distance of the correction lens holding member with respect to the length of the shape memory alloy string is larger than the length of the shape memory alloy string.

According to the above configuration, even if the shape memory alloy string is short, the moving distance of the correction lens holding member is long, so that it is efficient. It is also possible to make it small.

[0043]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, binoculars according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

The binoculars are provided with a camera shake preventing mechanism that allows the target to be seen in a stationary state even if there is a camera shake or the like.

FIG. 1 is an external view of the binoculars 10.
(A) is a top view, (b) is a rear view, (c) is a front view,
(D) is a right side view.

The binoculars 10 can be turned on / off by a camera shake prevention mechanism by a camera shake prevention button 14 arranged on the upper surface. A pair of objective lenses 30
Is fixed, but the distance between the pair of eyepieces 20 can be adjusted by changing the angles of the left and right eyepieces 22 with respect to the body 11. Binoculars 1
0, the focus adjustment operation can be performed by the focus adjustment knob 12 arranged on the upper surface.
By rotating 1, the diopter difference between left and right can be adjusted. A battery chamber cover 16 is provided on the eyepiece side of the body 11 so that batteries can be loaded from the eyepiece side.

FIG. 2 shows a block arrangement inside the binoculars 10.

The binoculars 10 include a pair of objective lenses 30,
It has a pair of left and right optical systems including a correction lens 51, a Porro prism 24, and an eyepiece 20.

The pair of objective lenses 30 is fixed to one objective lens barrel 32 with cross hatching. The objective lens barrel 32 is held by the body 11 so as to be able to move in the optical axis direction for focus adjustment.

The pair of correction lenses 51 are held so as to be biaxially driven by one camera shake correction unit 50 with hatching. In the camera shake correction unit 50, a base described later is fixed to the body 11.

The pair of Porro prisms 24 and the eyepiece 20 are respectively provided on the left and right separate prism holders 28a,
28b. Each prism holder 28a, 28b
Is held by the body 11 so as to be able to move in the direction of the optical axis in a thrust direction, and is held rotatably around the optical axes 30a and 30b of the objective lens 30 with respect to the body 11 and a battery chamber 18 described later.

The battery chamber 18 penetrates the camera shake correction unit 50 and is fixed to the body 11. The battery compartment 18 has two cylindrical batteries 2 for supplying power to the control circuit.
Are mounted parallel to the optical axes 30a and 30b. The arrangement of the batteries 2 includes the left and right optical axes 30a, 30
It is perpendicular to the line connecting b. The control circuit extends over the body 11, the prism holders 28a and 28b, and the battery chamber 18,
It is arranged along the upper surface or the lower surface of the binoculars 10.

The binoculars 10 are, like ordinary binoculars,
Focus and eyesight can be adjusted.

That is, when the focus adjustment operation section 12 on the upper surface of the binoculars 10 is operated, the pair of objective lens barrels 32 moves in the optical axis direction, and the focus moves. When the parallax adjustment operation unit 21 of the eyepiece is operated, the one eyepiece 20
Can be adjusted, and the diopter difference between left and right can be adjusted. When the right and left eyepieces 20 are moved right and left so as to adjust the distance therebetween, the prism holder 2 holding the eyepiece 20 and the prism 24 is moved.
8a, 28b are the object lens optical axis 30 with respect to the body 11;
a, rotate around 30b. As a result, the positions of the objective lens optical axes 30a and 30b and the eyepiece optical axes 20a and 20b are shifted by the prism 24, and the interpupillary distance can be changed.

Next, the configuration of the camera shake correction unit 50 will be described with reference to FIGS.

The camera shake correction unit 50 is a unit in which a pair of right and left correction lenses 51 are swingably supported by two orthogonal parallel link mechanisms, and includes a lock mechanism for locking the parallel link mechanism.

The parallel link mechanism is a flat four-node mechanism in which four links are connected in a substantially parallelogram shape by four pairs, and is a link fixed to a stationary system (hereinafter, referred to as a "fixed link"). Among the other links (herein, referred to as “moving links”), the moving link facing the fixed link moves substantially parallel to the extension direction of the fixed link in one plane.

FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram of a parallel link. The correction lens 8, which is a driven member, is fixed to a moving link 6b facing the fixed link 6d of the first parallel link mechanism 6. The first parallel link mechanism 6 is formed by connecting four links 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d into a parallelogram by four pairs. The moving links 6a and 6c adjacent to the fixed link 6d via the pair 6s and 6t
When the correction lens 8 rotates as indicated by m and 6n, the correction lens 8 generally moves in a first direction x parallel to the fixed link 6d.

The fixed link 6d of the first parallel link 6 is
The second parallel link 4 is fixed to a moving link 4b opposed to a fixed link (virtually existing between the pair 4s and 4t). When the movable links 4a and 4c adjacent to the fixed link via the pair 4s and 4t rotate as shown by arrows 4m and 4n, the correction lens 8 and the first parallel link 4 are rotated.
Generally translates in a second direction y parallel to the fixed link of the second parallel link 4. Thereby, the correction lens 8
Are movably supported in first and second directions x and y which are substantially perpendicular to each other.

FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram of the parallel link mechanism. The parallel link mechanism is made of one thin leaf spring material, and is provided with the link portions 5a, 5b, 5s, 5 via the deformed portion 5x.
t is connected. The deformed portion 5x is a portion having lower rigidity than the link portions 5a, 5b, 5s, and 5t, and is easily elastically deformed. For example, the deformed portion 5x is composed of only a surface perpendicular to the paper surface, and the link portions 5a, 5b, 5s, 5t
Is made to have an L-shaped cross section and rigidity from a plane parallel to the paper surface and a surface bent perpendicular to the paper surface.

As shown in FIG. 15B, the parallel link mechanism bends at the deformed portion 5x, and the moving link 5s facing the fixed link 5t moves substantially parallel to the extending direction of the fixed link 5t.

FIG. 9A is an external view of the camera shake correction unit 50 viewed from the eyepiece lens side, and FIG. 9B is a partial cross-sectional side view. FIG. 10A is an enlarged perspective view of a main part of a link plate,
(B) is a cross-sectional view passing through the center of the correction lens, and (c) is a cross-sectional view of the lock mechanism. FIG. 11 is an external view of the camera shake correction unit 50 viewed from the objective lens side. FIG. 12 is an external view of the camera shake correction unit 50 excluding the base as viewed from the objective lens side.

The camera shake correction unit 50 includes a correction lens holding frame 52 for holding two right and left correction lenses 51, and a vertical link plate 54 as a parallel link mechanism for supporting the correction lens holding frame 52 so as to swing only in the vertical direction. A holding table 56 for holding the vertical link plate 54; a horizontal link plate 58 as a parallel link mechanism for supporting the holding table 56 so as to swing only in the left-right direction; and a base 60 for holding the horizontal link plate 58. And a pressing spring 53 that is hung on the correction lens holding frame 52 and the base 60.

As shown by the solid line in FIG. 9 (a), the correction lens holding frame 52 is composed of two upper and lower beams 52s, 5b which hold the left and right correction lenses 51.
It is a one-piece component connected by 2t, and a hole 52c into which the above-described battery chamber 18 enters is formed in the center. Hole 5
4c, four hooks 52x for locking the pressing spring 53 are formed. As shown in FIGS. 10C and 12, the reference projection 52z of the correction lens holding frame 52 is formed.
Is pressed against the reference surface 60 s of the base 60. Also, the upper and lower beams 52 are provided on the ball frame portions 52a and 52b.
As shown in FIG. 10C, a tapered hole 52y for a lock mechanism is provided in a triangular portion at an inner corner formed between the correction lens 51 and s, 52t. Upper and lower beams 52
A projection 52k is provided on each of the s and 52t so as to pass through the center of gravity, and a V-groove 52v is formed at the center of the projection 52k so as to receive a shape memory alloy string of a drive unit described later.

As shown in FIG. 10B, the vertical link plate 54 is supported on the same surface of the correction lens holding frame 52 and the holding base 56 on the eyepiece side. The vertical link plate 54 is made of a thin leaf spring material, and constitutes a parallel link mechanism that swings up and down by one component. That is, as shown in FIG. 9A, the vertical link plate 54 has two link arms 5 extending left and right.
4s and 54t extend vertically, and two link arms 54s and 5t
Both ends of 4t are connected to fixed parts 54a and 54b on the left and right, respectively. One fixed portion 54a of the vertical link plate 54
Is fixed to the holding table 56 on the stationary system side, and the other fixing portion 54
b is fixed to the correction lens holding frame 52. FIG. 10 (a)
As shown in FIG. 5, the vertical link plate 54 has link arms 54s, 5s.
The fixing portions 54a and 54b and the link arms 54s and 54t have L-shaped cross sections. Fixed parts 54a, 54b
As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10A, a narrow deformed portion 54x formed only on a vertical surface and having a small width is formed at the boundary between the link arm portions 54s and 54t. Deformation part 54x
Are fixed portions 54a and 54b and link arms 54s and 54t.
As compared to, the rigidity is low, it is elastically deformed and easy to bend,
Thereby, the fixing portions 54a and 54b and the link arm portions 54
s, 54t freely changes within a predetermined range,
The correction lens holding frame 52 moves parallel to the holding table 56 in the vertical direction.

As shown in FIG. 9B, the holding table 56
It has a main body 56c disposed between the correction lens holding frame 52 and the base 60. Although not shown, the main body 56c
Has holes on the left and right so as not to block the optical path, and a hole for the battery chamber 18 is formed in the center. As shown in FIG. 9, the correction lens holding frame 5 is provided on the left and right sides of the main body 56c.
Reinforcing ribs 56a and 56b are provided so as to surround 2 and extend to the same height as the correction lens holding frame 52. Each of the reinforcing ribs 56a and 56b is provided with a protrusion 56k projecting left and right, and a V-groove 56v is formed at the tip thereof to receive a shape memory alloy string of a drive unit described later.

As shown in FIG. 10B, the horizontal link plate 58 is disposed between the holding base 56 and the base 60, and forms a parallel link mechanism that swings right and left with one component. The horizontal link plate 58, like the vertical link plate 54, is made of a thin leaf spring material. As shown in FIG. 12, the horizontal link plate 58 has two link arms 58a and 58b extending vertically and fixed portions 58s and 58t extending to the left and right are connected to each other via a deformed portion 58x. The horizontal link plate 58 is
Similarly to the above, the bending portions are bent almost vertically to the objective lens side along the link arms 58a and 58b, and the fixing portions 58s and 58t and the link arm portions 58a and 58b have L-shaped cross sections.
x is composed of only a narrow vertical surface, and this portion is elastically deformed. One fixing part 58s is fixed to the holding base 56, and the other fixing part 58t is fixed to the base 60 on the stationary system side, so that the holding base 58 moves to the left and right parallel to the base 60.

The base 60 has a plate shape, and has holes 60a and 60b through which the left and right optical paths pass, and a hole 60c into which the above-mentioned battery chamber 18 enters, as shown in FIG. A hook 60x for locking the pressing spring 53 is provided in the hole 60c.
Is provided. As shown in FIG. 10C, the reference surface 60 s and the holding unit 60 t of the position sensor (photo reflector) 80 for detecting the vertical and horizontal movement amounts of the correction lens holding frame 52 are provided on the surface on the eyepiece side. Are provided. Further, a support portion 60k that slidably supports a guide shaft 70 for locking the correction lens holding frame 52 so as not to move is provided. Although not shown, the upper and lower side surfaces are provided with holes for mounting a vertical drive unit, and the left and right side surfaces are provided with mounting holes for mounting a horizontal drive unit.

Four pressing springs 53 are hung between the correction lens holding frame 52 and the base 60, and the reference projection 52z of the correction lens holding frame 52 is
It is configured to be pressed against the zero reference plane 60s. Thereby, the correction lens holding frame 52 moves within the plane.

As shown in FIG. 10 (c), the lock mechanism is fitted to the guide shaft 70 extending from the base 60 in the optical axis direction so as to be able to move in the thrust direction, and the correction lens is held by the tapered end portion. A lock pin 72 for inviting the frame 52 to hold the correction lens holding frame 52 immovably, a lock spring 74 for pressing the lock pin 72 in the direction of the base 60, and a lock release for moving the lock pin 72 away from the correction lens holding frame 52. And a lever 76.

The correction lens holding frame 52 is locked by the lock pin 72 in a non-corrected state, and is unlocked in the corrected state, but the amount of movement is regulated by the guide shaft 70. A transmission mechanism (not shown) is provided between the anti-shake button 14 and the lock pin 72, and converts the pressing movement of the anti-shake button 14 into the movement of the unlock lever 76 in the unlock pin releasing direction to release the lock. You can do it.

Next, the structure of the drive unit will be described with reference to the drawings.

The drive unit is a unit formed by fixing both ends of a shape memory alloy string of a shape memory alloy to a support.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the support is
The resin 150 is molded integrally with the two solder terminals 110 and 120. The support may be formed by bonding and joining two solder terminals and an insulator. The solder terminals 110 and 120 are integrated while being separated from each other,
They are insulated from each other. Terminal 11 for solder
The shape memory alloy cord 102 of the shape memory alloy is fixed to 0 and 120 by a method described later.

The shape memory alloy string 102 is connected to the drive unit 1
When 00 is in the non-attached state, it is slackened, and in the attached state, the intermediate portion is pressed against the driven body and folded back in the shape of a “ku”. In order to realize this "-" shape, the support is generally formed in a "-" shape or an arc shape, and a shape memory alloy string 102 is attached to both ends on the opening side, and an area surrounded by the support is formed. Folded at the side.

As shown in FIG. 3, the solder terminals 110,
At the connecting portion of 120, mounting holes 116 and 126, a positioning hole 128, and connection terminals 112 and 122 are formed, and are used as a mounting surface for mounting the drive unit 100. Further, a through hole 108 is provided, and when the drive unit 100 is mounted, the hook between the shape memory alloy string 102 and the V grooves 52v, 56v of the projections 52k, 56k can be easily confirmed from the through hole 108. It has become.

Both ends of the drive unit 100 on the opening side are
It has a coplanar surface substantially parallel to the mounting surface as a receiving surface, in which keyholes 114 and 124 and guides 115 and 125 are formed. The keyholes 114 and 124 are portions penetrating the solder terminals 110 and 120 in a keyhole shape, and include round hole portions 114a and 124a and linear portions 114c and 124c extending from the round hole portions 114a and 124a to the mounting surface side. Consists of Guides 115 and 125 are keyholes 114 and 124
Are shallow grooves extending from the round hole portions 114a and 124a to the side opposite to the mounting surface.

Round holes 114a, 124a of keyhole 124
The ball 130 is press-fitted together with the shape memory alloy string 102, and the shape memory alloy string 102 is attached by fitting the ball 130. Instead of the ball 130, a wedge may be used.

The drive unit 100 can be assembled as follows.

First, the shape memory alloy cord 102 is stretched with low tension on the receiving surfaces at both ends on the opening side of the support so as to pass through the guides 115 and 125.

Next, as shown in FIG. 4A, the center of the shape memory alloy string 102 is
To bring it down to a predetermined depth.

Then, as shown in FIG.
At the same time, the ball 130 is driven into the round hole portions 114a and 124a of the shape memory alloy cords 102 to a predetermined depth from the inside of the “<” shape of the shape memory alloy cord 102, and the shape memory alloy cord 102 is fixed.

The attached shape memory alloy string 102
Cross the round hole portions 114a, 124a of the keyhole 124 in the thickness direction, pass through the straight portions 114c, 124c, and again
Used inside the support.

In the camera shake correction unit 50, one drive unit is required for the direction in which the correction lens 51 is moved. As shown in FIGS. 5 to 8, a total of four drive units 100a to 100d are provided by the camera shake correction unit. Installed after assembly of 50.

FIG. 5 is a front view showing the camera shake correction unit 50 from the objective lens side with the body 11 removed.
FIG. 6 is a front view of the camera shake correction unit 50 viewed from the objective lens side with the objective lens barrel 32 removed, and FIG.
8 is a sectional view taken along line VII-VII in FIG.
Is a side view taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. 6,

As shown in FIG. 6, the drive units 100c and 100d for lateral drive are mounted along the R portion on the outer periphery of the camera shake correction unit 50. As shown in FIG. 5, the drive units 100a and 100b for vertical drive are mounted so as to enter the valley between the two objective lens barrels 32 arranged side by side. At this time, the drive units 100 c and 100 d for lateral drive are configured such that the direction of the “<” character (the surface including the “<” character portion of the shape memory alloy string 102 of the shape memory alloy) corresponds to the moving plane of the correction lens 51. And drive units 100a and 100b for vertical drive
The direction of the letter "ku" is perpendicular to the moving plane.

That is, the driving units 100a and 100b whose driving directions are up and down are mounted on the correction lens holding frame 52 which moves in an arbitrary direction on the reference plane of the base 60, and the holding base 56 which moves only in the left and right directions is driven. The left and right drive units 100c and 100d face each other,
Is held. In the drive unit pair 100a, 100b that drives the correction lens holding frame 52 up and down, the extension direction of the shape memory alloy string of the shape memory alloy is perpendicular to the reference plane on which the correction lens holding frame 52 moves. Further, a pair of drive units 100c and 100 for driving the holding table 56 left and right.
d is a drive unit pair 100a, 100 that is driven up and down.
Unlike b, the extension direction of the shape memory alloy string of the shape memory alloy is parallel to the reference plane.

As described above, the drive unit 10
0 through the through hole 108 in the mounting surface
The hooks of the shape memory alloy string 102 on the V-shaped grooves 52v, 56v of the 0 projections 52k, 56k can be easily confirmed, but the drive units 100c, 100 for lateral drive are provided.
As for d, as shown in FIG. 6, the projection 56 of the holding base 56 penetrates the through hole of the mounting surface, and the movement of the holding base 56 in the optical axis direction is restricted.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system for correcting camera shake of the binoculars 10.

The control circuit 90 that controls the control includes a position sensor 80, an acceleration sensor 82, and a drive unit 100.
a to 100 d and the unlock detection switch 14 are connected, and power is supplied from the battery 2.

The position sensor 80 detects the position of the correction lens holding frame 52 in the camera shake correction unit 50 as described above. The acceleration sensor 82 is, for example, a gyro sensor, is disposed at an appropriate position in the body 11, and
The shake data of the binoculars 10 due to a hand shake of 0 or the like is detected. The main switch 15 is turned on in conjunction with the release of the locked state of the camera shake correction unit 50 by operating the camera shake prevention button 14. That is, when the camera shake prevention button 14 is operated, the camera shake correction unit 5 is operated by a transmission mechanism (not shown).
0 lock pin 70, and shake correction unit 5
The lock state of 0 can be released, and the correction lens 51 can be moved. The main switch 15 is provided in the middle of this transmission mechanism, and is turned on at the last part of the unlocking stroke. The control circuit 90 includes a servo circuit for driving the drive units 100a to 100d for camera shake correction. The control circuit 90 includes the acceleration sensor 8
2 and the output of the position sensor 80, the drive units 100a to 100d are appropriately driven to move the correction lens 50 to a position where the image observed by the binoculars 10 is not blurred.

Next, a specific operation will be described.

By operating the camera shake prevention button 14 on the upper surface of the binoculars, the locked state of the camera shake correction unit 50 is released.
When the main switch 15 is turned on, the control circuit 90 starts operating, determines a voltage to be applied to the shape memory alloy strings of the drive units 100a to 100d, and applies the voltage.

The shape memory alloy string to which a voltage is applied generates Joule heat due to its own resistance value. This heat causes it to shrink to its memorized length. Since the character is a "", the moving amount is efficiently scaled to a predetermined multiple. Due to the shrinkage of the shape memory alloy string, the opening of the character “」 ”increases, and the correction lens holding frame 52 or the holding table 56 moves in a direction away from the drive unit to which the voltage is applied. The magnification ratio M = δ / λ of the movement stroke δ of the correction lens with respect to the contraction length λ of the shape memory alloy cord is M = cos θ / k− (1−sin ² θ / k ² ) ^1/2 (1). Here, θ is a half of the angle of opening in the shape of “C”, and k is a contraction rate of the shape memory alloy string.

The shape memory alloy string of the drive unit facing the drive unit to which the voltage is applied to the shape memory alloy string is pushed at the center by the moving correction lens holding frame 52 or the holding base 56, and exceeds the elastic range. It extends. The driving force is the resultant force of the shape memory alloy string tension due to the heating in the “U” direction. On the other hand, the resistance force is the deformation resistance of the facing shape memory alloy string, the friction resistance when the correction lens holding frame 52 moves on the base 60, the moving direction component of the restoring force of the pressing spring 53, and the parallel link mechanism. It is the sum of the spring force of the leaf springs that constitute 54 and 58.

In the case of lateral vibration, the drive unit 1 for vertical drive
The resistance to pull the shape memory alloy strings of 00a and 100b in the lateral direction is added to the resistance to lateral vibration. This resistance is such that the linear shape memory alloy string is bent in a small amount in the lateral direction, and the influence is small.

When there is a vertical vibration component, one of the drive units 100a and 100b for vertical drive is selected and energized by the control circuit 90. The energized shape memory alloy string is
It contracts and pushes the correction lens holding frame 52 in the direction of its center of gravity. The correction lens holding frame 52 pushed by the shape memory alloy string of the drive unit for vertical drive moves substantially up and down without being rotated by the vertical link plate 54. At this time, in the vertical link plate 54, the fixed portion 54b on the side of the correction lens holding frame 52 moves in parallel, the upper and lower link arms 54s and 54t change angles, and the fixed portion 54ba on the side of the holding base 56 does not move. . Displacement portions 54x at both ends of link arms 54s, 54t
Bend and bend in opposite directions, respectively. The link arms 54s, 54t and the fixing portions 54a, 54b having an L-shaped cross section are hardly deformed because their rigidities are significantly different.

If there is a lateral vibration component, the control circuit 90 selects and energizes one of the lateral drive units 100c and 100d. The energized shape memory alloy string of the drive unit for lateral drive contracts and pushes the holding base 56 in the direction of its center of gravity. The holding table 56 pushed by the shape memory alloy string of the driving unit for the horizontal driving, the vertical link plate 54 held by this, and the correction lens holding frame 52 are connected to the horizontal link plate 5.
8 moves almost right and left without rotating. At this time, the horizontal link plate 58 is fixed to the fixing portion 56a on the holding base 56 side.
Moves in parallel, the angles of the two left and right link arms 56s and 56t change, and the fixed portion 56b on the base 60 side does not move. The displacement portions 56x at both ends of the link arms 56s and 56t are
Each bends and bends in the opposite direction. The link arms 56s, 56t and the fixing portions 56a, 56b having an L-shaped cross section are hardly deformed because their rigidities are significantly different.

Therefore, even if there is vertical or horizontal vibration,
Regardless of the vibration of the binoculars 10, the glare position of the objective lens 30 keeps the same position on the left and right.

When the camera shake operation button 14 is released, first,
The main switch 15 is turned off, the power supply to the control circuit 90 is cut off, and the operation stops. Further, when the lock pin 72 approaches the base 60 side, the movable range of the correction lens holding frame 52 is reduced, and subsequently the holding frame 52 is guided to its initial position by its own taper, and finally the correction lens holding frame 52 is operated. Disable (lock).

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, but can be implemented in various other modes.

For example, instead of a configuration in which the reference projection 52z of the correction lens holding frame 52 and the reference surface 60s of the base 60 are in direct contact with each other, as shown in an enlarged view of the main part of FIG. Projection 52z and reference surface 60 of base 60
s may be arranged between the steel ball 200. In this case, preferably, a recess 60t is formed in the base 60,
The bottom surface of the recess 60t is set as the reference surface 60s so that the steel ball 200 does not come off. Thereby, the reference surface 6 of the base 60 is
The friction between the reference projection 52z and the reference surface 60s can be reduced while maintaining the parallel accuracy of the correction lens holding frame 52 with respect to 0s. Therefore, the correction lens holding frame 52 can be smoothly moved in parallel with the base 60 with a small force, and there are effects such as high speed of camera shake correction and power saving.

For example, the camera shake preventing mechanism 50 and the drive units 100a to 100d can be used to support the image pickup device in an image pickup device that prevents the camera shake by moving the image pickup device according to the movement of the subject image. .

[0104]

As described above, a pair of correction lenses that move freely within a predetermined plane are driven near the center thereof in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction connecting the pair of correction lenses, and are fixed to an immovable body. Because the memory alloy string was arranged so that its extension direction was almost perpendicular to the movement plane of the correction lens,
Even if the correction lens moves in a direction different from the driving direction of the shape memory alloy string, the contact point between the correction lens and the shape memory alloy string does not move, and the shape memory alloy string does not deteriorate due to frictional heat or wear. .

Further, since the correction lens is configured to be held by the vertical link, that is, the shape memory alloy string is disposed near the center of the pair of correction lenses and substantially parallel to the optical axis.
Even when the shape memory alloy cord extends in the optical axis direction, it does not interfere with the prism or the objective lens, and does not impair the size of the device.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an external view of binoculars according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the binoculars of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a plan view of a drive unit.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a method of assembling the drive unit of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of an arrangement of a drive unit.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of an arrangement of a drive unit.

7 is a sectional view taken along line VII-VII in FIG.

FIG. 8 is a side view taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is an external view and a cross-sectional view of a correction unit.

10 is a perspective view and a sectional view of a main part of the correction unit in FIG. 9;

11 is an external view of the correction unit of FIG. 9 as viewed from the objective lens side.

FIG. 12 is an external view of the correction unit of FIG. 9 when the base is removed from the objective lens side.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a control system.

FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram of a parallel link mechanism.

FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram of a modification of the parallel link mechanism.

FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of a main part of a modified example.

[Explanation of symbols]

Reference Signs List 50 camera shake correction unit (camera shake prevention mechanism) 51 correction lens 52 correction lens holding frame (correction lens holding member) 56 holding table (intermediate member) 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d drive unit (drive mechanism, camera shake prevention mechanism) 102 shape Memory alloy string

Claims (10)

[Claims] 1. A drive mechanism using a shape memory alloy string, wherein a moving member arranged so as to be movable in an arbitrary direction in a plane with respect to a stationary member is moved using a shape memory alloy string. A driving mechanism using a shape memory alloy string, wherein the alloy string is disposed substantially perpendicular to the moving plane of the moving member, and is fixed at both ends in a bent state in contact with the moving member. . 2. The shape memory alloy string, wherein the both ends are fixed to a fixed position with respect to the stationary member, and the vicinity of the center between the both ends abuts on the moving member.
The drive mechanism according to claim 1. 3. The structure according to claim 1, wherein a moving distance of the moving member with respect to a length of the shape memory alloy string is larger than a length of the shape memory alloy string. Drive mechanism. 4. A camera-shake prevention mechanism in which a correction lens holding member for holding a correction lens is movably disposed in an arbitrary direction within a plane perpendicular to the optical axis, wherein the correction lens is disposed substantially parallel to the optical axis. A camera-shake prevention mechanism using a shape-memory alloy string, comprising a shape-memory alloy string fixed at both ends thereof in a state of being bent while being in contact with the holding member. 5. The shape memory alloy string, wherein both ends are fixed to a fixed position with respect to the stationary member, and a portion near the center between the both ends abuts on the correction lens holding member. 4. The camera shake prevention mechanism according to 4. 6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a moving distance of the correction lens holding member with respect to a length of the shape memory alloy string is larger than a length of the shape memory alloy string. 4. The camera shake prevention mechanism according to 4. 7. A camera-shake prevention mechanism for binoculars in which a correction lens holding member for holding a pair of correction lenses is movably arranged in an arbitrary direction within a plane perpendicular to the optical axis, and is arranged substantially parallel to the optical axis. In a state in which the correction lens holding member is bent in contact with the correction lens holding member in a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction connecting the pair of correction lenses, both ends thereof are fixed, and a shape memory alloy string is provided. A camera shake prevention mechanism for binoculars using a shape memory alloy string. 8. The shape memory alloy string, wherein both ends are fixed to a fixed position with respect to the stationary member, and a portion near the center between both ends abuts on the correction lens holding member. 7. The camera shake prevention mechanism for binoculars according to 7. 9. The correction lens holding member is disposed movably in a direction connecting the pair of correction lenses in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis, and the pair of correction lenses is moved in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis. An intermediate member that is movably supported in a direction perpendicular to the connecting direction, and both ends of which are disposed in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis and abut on the intermediate member in a direction connecting the pair of correction lenses and are bent; The camera shake prevention mechanism for binoculars according to claim 7, further comprising: a second shape memory alloy string to which is fixed. 10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a moving distance of the correction lens holding member with respect to an extension length of the shape memory alloy string is larger than an extension length of the shape memory alloy string. 7. The camera shake prevention mechanism for binoculars according to 7.