JP2013101279A - Drive device and imaging apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a drive device which is capable of performing driving in an XY plane and holding of a moving frame in an arbitrary position in the XY plane, with a simple inexpensive configuration by efficiently using electric energy, has a large drive force, and can be precisely controlled and to provide an imaging apparatus.SOLUTION: When a flexible member 401 is made into a tensile state by a holding mechanism 105, a moving frame 101 is pressed against a rolling part 201 through a contact member 402 and held in the fixed position of a fixed frame 102 by a frictional force by pressing. When the flexible member 401 is made into a slack state by the holding mechanism 105, the contact member 402 is away from the moving frame 101, to release the holding of the moving frame 101 by the fixed frame 102.

Description

  The present invention relates to a driving device that drives a moving body using an actuator and moves the moving body in a predetermined direction, and an imaging device that performs shake correction and screen tilt correction using the driving device.

  Conventionally, electric stages capable of rotating three axes orthogonal to each other in an orthogonal coordinate system have been used in various places. Specifically, an electric stage is used in an imaging apparatus such as a digital camera having a blur correction function.

  As a blur correction function provided in the imaging device, blur vibration in the camera pitch direction and blur vibration in the camera yaw direction are detected using a blur detection unit such as an angular velocity sensor, and one of the imaging optical systems is based on the detected blur signal. The image blur on the imaging surface of the image sensor is corrected by independently moving the image sensor or the image sensor in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction within a plane orthogonal to the imaging optical axis.

  In a camera shake correction mechanism having such a camera shake correction function, in order to correct camera shake, a part of the photographic lens or the image sensor itself is horizontally and vertically aligned within a plane perpendicular to the photographic optical axis. The drive means to move to is used. This drive means needs to be precisely driven (micro-drive) when operated following camera shake, and the moving body position (imaging surface position) is accurate with respect to the photographic lens even when driven. It is required to be positioned.

  The driving means is required to have a large driving force in order to overcome the gravity of the moving body and obtain an acceleration necessary for control. Furthermore, the holding performance for holding the position of the moving body is required even when the power of the driving means is turned off. As a matter of course, there is a demand for a small and inexpensive mechanism that does not have a complicated mechanism.

  In response to the above-described requirements, a base yoke plate corresponding to the fixed frame is provided with a plurality of substrate supporting projections having a smooth surface at the tip, and opposed to a plurality of substrate support protrusions, and pressed by a coil spring to have a smooth surface push pin. A voice coil motor (hereinafter referred to as “VCM”) is composed of a coil installed on the movable part side and a magnet provided on the base yoke plate side, holding the movable part corresponding to the moving frame. A drive mechanism is disclosed that can rotate around an axis perpendicular to the X-axis direction (horizontal direction), Y-axis direction (vertical direction), and XY plane in the plane formed by the end surfaces of the substrate support protrusions (Patent Document 1). reference).

  In addition, a movable element corresponding to the moving frame is provided with a moving actuator (for example, a VCM) that moves linearly with respect to the fixed element corresponding to the fixed frame, and is movable when the moving actuator does not generate a driving force. The movable element and the stator are pressed against each other so that the movable element and the stator do not move relative to each other. When the moving actuator generates a drive amount, the pressing force between the movable element and the stator is applied to the braking actuator (for example, A technique for releasing with a piezoelectric body is disclosed (see Patent Document 2).

JP 2008-129326 A JP 2010-282028 A

  However, in Patent Document 1, there is a problem that the friction force of pressing support always acts on the moving frame, and when the moving frame is driven by the VCM, the output of the VCM is reduced by the friction force. . In particular, when the operation of the VCM is stopped, the moving frame is held by the fixed frame by the friction force of the pressure support. However, if the holding force is increased to increase the holding performance, the friction force also increases. Output will decrease.

  Further, in Patent Document 2, the driving mechanism releases the pressing force between the mover and the stator by the braking actuator, and it is necessary to always drive the braking unit actuator in order to maintain the released state. There is a problem that the efficiency is not good.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above, and a drive device that can efficiently use electric energy and can hold a moving frame with a simple configuration, and an imaging device including the drive device The purpose is to provide.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, a drive device according to the present invention is supported by pressing against a fixed frame via a plurality of rolling portions, and is movable in the horizontal direction, A driving mechanism for moving the moving frame in the horizontal direction within the fixed frame, a contact member that is detachable from the moving frame, and a support that is provided with the contact member on one end side and that fixes the other end side to the fixed frame. A member, a flexible member to which the contact member is connected and capable of being pulled or relaxed, and a tensioning mechanism to which the flexible member is connected to bring the flexible member into a tensioned state or a relaxed state. When the flexible member is pulled by the tension mechanism, the moving frame comes into contact with the contact member and presses the rolling portion, and the fixed frame holds the moving frame by the frictional force generated by the pressing. On the other hand, the flexible member is relaxed by the tension mechanism. If you, the fixing frame the contact member is separated from said mobile frame, characterized in that to release the holding of the movable frame.

  In the drive device according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, at least three of the rolling parts are arranged on the fixed frame, and the flexible member is a straight line that passes through each of the plurality of rolling parts. It is characterized by being arranged on a region connected by.

  Three of the rolling parts are arranged on the fixed frame, and the flexible member is arranged on a triangular region formed by straight lines passing through the three rolling parts. And

  The drive device according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above-mentioned invention, the flexible member has the contact member connected to one end side and the other end side arranged in the fixed frame.

  In the driving device according to the present invention, in the above invention, the moving frame has a protruding portion protruding from a plane, the contact member is deformable, and the flexible member is the contact member. It is characterized by being held through.

  The drive device according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the drive mechanism is any one of a voice coil motor, a linear motor, a rotary motor, and an ultrasonic motor.

  In the drive device according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, the flexible member has a string shape or a belt shape.

  The drive device according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the tension mechanism is provided on the fixed frame.

  Moreover, the drive device according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the moving frame is provided with an optical element.

  Moreover, the drive device according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the moving frame is provided with an optical element.

  An imaging apparatus according to the present invention is an imaging apparatus that captures an image of a subject and generates image data of the subject, and is set with a predetermined photographing mode for displacing the position of the driving device and the optical element. In this case, the driving device is driven so as to displace the optical element in a plane orthogonal to the photographing optical axis of the imaging device, and the tension mechanism is driven so that the flexible member is in a relaxed state. On the other hand, when the predetermined photographing mode is not set, a controller that stops the driving of the driving device and drives the pulling mechanism so that the flexible member is pulled. It is characterized by.

  The imaging apparatus according to the present invention further includes a blur detection unit that detects a blur of the imaging apparatus in the above invention, and the predetermined shooting mode is a camera shake correction mode that compensates for the blur of the imaging apparatus. When the camera shake correction mode is set, the control unit displaces the optical element within a plane orthogonal to the photographing optical axis of the imaging device based on the detection result detected by the shake detection unit. And driving the driving device.

  In the image pickup apparatus according to the present invention, in the above invention, the predetermined shooting mode is a tilt shooting mode in which the optical element is moved within a predetermined plane orthogonal to the shooting optical axis of the image pickup apparatus. And when the tilt shooting mode is set, the control unit drives the drive device to move the optical element within the predetermined plane, and the optical element reaches the predetermined plane. The driving device is stopped and the tension mechanism is driven.

  In the image pickup apparatus according to the present invention, the optical element is an image pickup element or an image pickup lens.

  According to the present invention, when the flexible member is brought into a tension state by the tension mechanism, the contact member is pressed while being in contact with the moving frame, and the fixed frame holds the moving frame by the frictional force due to the pressing, while the tension mechanism When the flexible member is in a relaxed state, the contact member moves away from the moving frame and the fixed frame releases the holding of the moving frame. As a result, the electric energy can be used efficiently, and the moving frame can be held with a simple configuration.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a functional configuration of a camera system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view schematically showing a configuration example of an imaging unit movement drive mechanism including an imaging unit and a driving device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC of FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line DD of FIG. FIG. 7 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the VCM constituting the driving apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE in FIG. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view in which the main part of the tension portion according to the embodiment of the present invention is schematically enlarged and developed. FIG. 10 is an operation diagram for explaining the outline of the operation of the tension mechanism according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the camera system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an outline of the neutral holding operation process of FIG. FIG. 13 is a front view schematically showing an outline of the imaging unit moving mechanism according to Modification 1 of the embodiment of the present invention. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line FF in FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line GG in FIG. FIG. 16 is a front view schematically showing the outline of the imaging unit moving mechanism according to Modification 2 of the embodiment of the present invention. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line HH in FIG.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, modes for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter referred to as “embodiments”) will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, as an example of the imaging apparatus according to the present invention, a lens interchangeable digital single-lens reflex camera equipped with a driving device for performing camera shake correction of an imaging unit including an imaging element that obtains an image signal by photoelectric conversion. Although a camera is illustrated, this invention is not limited by this embodiment. In the description of the drawings, the same portions are denoted by the same reference numerals for description.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a functional configuration of a camera system according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, the left side is assumed to be the front side and the right side is assumed to be the rear side.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the camera system 1 includes a lens unit 2 that collects a predetermined visual field region, and a body unit 3 to which the lens unit 2 is detachably attached. The lens unit 2 is attached to the body unit 3 by coupling a rear lens mount (not shown) of the lens unit 2 to a main body side mounting ring (not shown) provided on the front side of the body unit 3. The As a result, the camera system 1 can exchange and mount various lens units 2 for photographing. Note that the main body side mounting ring is a bayonet type or the like.

  Further, in the following description, the axis that coincides with the optical axis O1 of the optical system that the lens unit 2 constitutes is the Z axis, and two axes that are orthogonal to each other on a plane orthogonal to the Z axis are the X axes (in the horizontal direction). Axis) and Y axis (vertical axis).

  First, a detailed configuration of the lens unit 2 will be described. The lens unit 2 includes an imaging lens 21, a lens drive unit 22, a position detection unit 23, a diaphragm 24, a diaphragm drive unit 25, a lens storage unit 26, a lens communication unit 27, and a lens control microcomputer 28. (Hereinafter referred to as “Lucom28”).

  The taking lens 21 forms an optical image of the subject. The photographing lens 21 includes a focus lens 21a and a variable power lens 21b. The focus lens 21a is configured by using one or a plurality of lenses, and is adjusted along the direction of the optical axis O1 to adjust the focus state of the photographing lens 21. The variable magnification lens 21b is configured using one or a plurality of zoom lenses, and is driven along the direction of the optical axis O1 to change the focal length of the photographing lens 21.

  The lens driving unit 22 is configured by using an actuator such as a stepping motor, a motor drive circuit, and the like, and moves the focus lens 21a and the variable power lens 21b along the optical axis O1 direction under the control of the Lucom 28.

  The position detection unit 23 is configured by using a potentiometer such as a photo interrupter, a linear encoder, and a variable resistance element, an A / D conversion circuit, or the like, and detects a position of the focus lens 21a driven by the lens driving unit 22. 23a and a position detection sensor 23b for detecting the position of the zoom lens 21b. The position detection sensor 23a converts the rotation amount of the actuator included in the lens driving unit 22 into the number of pulses, and detects the position of the focus lens 21a from the reference position based on the infinite end based on the converted number of pulses. . Similarly, the position detection sensor 23b detects the position of the zoom lens 21b from the reference position with the infinite end as a reference.

  The diaphragm 24 adjusts the amount of subject light incident on the body unit 3 by changing the aperture area. Specifically, the diaphragm 24 adjusts exposure by limiting the amount of incident light collected by the photographing lens 21.

  The aperture drive unit 25 is configured using a stepping motor, a motor driver, or the like, and drives the aperture 24 under the control of the Lucom 28.

  The lens storage unit 26 is configured using a non-volatile memory or a volatile memory, and includes a control program for determining the positions and movements of the focus lens 21a and the zoom lens 21b, and the focus lens 21a and the zoom lens 21b. Optical data including lens characteristics (such as chromatic aberration) and various parameters is stored.

  The lens communication unit 27 is a communication interface for communicating with the body unit 3 described later when the lens unit 2 is attached to the body unit 3.

  The Lucom 28 is configured by using a CPU or the like, and controls the operation of each part of the lens unit 2. Specifically, the Lucom 28 performs drive control of the lens driving unit 22 and the aperture driving unit 25.

  Next, a detailed configuration of the body unit 3 will be described. The body unit 3 includes a shutter 31, a shutter charge mechanism 32, a shutter control circuit 33, an imaging unit 34, an imaging unit movement drive mechanism 35, an imaging unit interface circuit 36, an image processing controller 37, an SDRAM 38, Flash ROM 39, recording medium 40, EEPROM 41, strobe 42, strobe control circuit 43, power supply circuit 44, battery 45, operation display LED 46, display unit 47, camera operation SW 48, and main unit communication unit 49 And a body control microcomputer 50 (hereinafter referred to as “Bucom 50”).

  The shutter 31 performs an exposure operation for setting the state of the imaging unit 34 to an exposure state or a light shielding state by performing an opening / closing operation. The shutter 31 is configured using a focal plane shutter or the like. The shutter charge mechanism 32 charges a spring that drives the front curtain and the rear curtain of the shutter 31. The shutter control circuit 33 controls the movement of the shutter 31 between the front curtain and the rear curtain.

  The imaging unit 34 is provided on the optical axis O1, and generates image data by photoelectrically converting a subject image formed by focusing by the lens unit 2. The imaging unit 34 is configured using, for example, an imaging element 341 such as a rectangular CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) which is formed in a slightly horizontally long aspect ratio of 4: 3. An optical low-pass filter 342 “hereinafter referred to as“ optical LPF 342 ”and a dustproof filter 343 are disposed on the front surface of the image sensor 341. The imaging unit 34 is obtained by integrating the imaging element 341, the optical LPF 342, and the dust filter 343 as a unit. A piezoelectric element 344 is attached to the periphery of the dust filter 343. The piezoelectric element 344 has two electrodes, and under the control of the dustproof filter control circuit 345, by vibrating the dustproof filter 343 by vibrating at a predetermined frequency determined by the size and material of the dustproof filter 343, It is configured so that dust attached to the filter surface of the dustproof filter 343 can be removed. The imaging unit 34 is held in the body unit 3 via an imaging unit moving drive mechanism 35 for camera shake correction including a driving device described later.

  The imaging unit movement drive mechanism 35 mechanically moves the imaging unit 34 in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the rotation directions around the Z-axis in order to correct a user's camera shake during shooting. The imaging unit movement drive mechanism 35 functions as a drive device of the present embodiment. The detailed configuration of the imaging unit movement drive mechanism 35 will be described later.

  The imaging unit interface circuit 36 controls the operation of the imaging unit 34. Specifically, the imaging unit interface circuit 36 outputs image data from the imaging unit 34 at a predetermined imaging timing. The imaging unit 34, the imaging unit interface circuit 36, and the image processing controller 37 are electrically connected.

  The image processing controller 37 generates an image based on image data (image signal) output from the imaging unit 34 via the imaging unit interface circuit 36. The image processing controller 37 performs various types of image processing on the image data. Specifically, the image processing controller 37 performs optical black subtraction processing, white balance adjustment processing, image data synchronization processing, color matrix calculation processing, γ correction processing, color reproduction processing, and edge enhancement processing on image data. Image processing including the above is performed.

  Further, the image processing controller 37 performs autofocus by a contrast detection method. Specifically, the image processing controller 37 applies a predetermined area (for a plurality of image data generated by vibrating the focus lens 21a with a predetermined amplitude in the direction of the optical axis O1 (hereinafter referred to as “wobbling operation”). The contrast in the focus area) is calculated, and it is detected whether the focus position is in the direction of the infinite end side or the close end side. After that, the image processing controller 37 moves the focus lens 21a in the focus direction while performing the wobbling operation, captures (photographs) the image data, and the focus lens 21a having the maximum contrast from the image data. Is detected (focus position), and the focus lens 21a is stopped at that position to perform autofocus.

  The SDRAM 38 is configured using a volatile memory. The SDRAM 38 temporarily stores information being processed by the Bucom 50.

  The flash ROM 39 is configured using a nonvolatile memory. The flash ROM 39 stores various programs for operating the camera system 1, various data used during the execution of the programs, various parameters necessary for the image processing operation by the image processing controller 37, and the like.

  The recording medium 40 is configured using a memory card, HDD, or the like that is mounted from the outside of the body unit 3. The recording medium 40 is detachably attached to the body unit 3 via a memory I / F (not shown). The recording medium 40 records image data captured by the camera system 1 (including audio data in the case of moving image data), while reading the recorded image data.

  The EEPROM 41 stores predetermined control parameters necessary for controlling the camera system 1. The EEPROM 41 is provided so as to be accessible from the Bucom 50.

  The strobe 42 is configured by a xenon lamp, an LED, or the like. The strobe 42 emits light toward a predetermined visual field region in synchronization with the exposure operation of the shutter 31. The strobe control circuit 43 causes the strobe 42 to emit light under the control of the Bucom 50.

  The power supply circuit 44 converts the voltage of the battery 45 into a voltage required for each component and each circuit unit of the camera system 1 and supplies the converted voltage. The body unit 3 is provided with a voltage detection circuit (not shown) for detecting a voltage change when current is supplied from an external power source via a jack (not shown).

  The operation display LED 46 notifies the user by outputting (emitting) the operation state of the camera system 1 under the control of the Bucom 50.

  The display unit 47 is configured using a display panel made of liquid crystal, organic EL (Electro Luminescence), or the like. The display unit 47 is electrically connected to the image processing controller 37 via the Bucom 50, and displays an image corresponding to the image data subjected to image processing by the image processing controller 37. The display unit 47 displays a live view image corresponding to the image data continuously generated by the imaging unit 34. Thereby, the user can set the composition at the time of imaging | photography by confirming the live view image which the display part 47 displays in real time.

  The camera operation SW 48 includes a power switch (not shown) that switches the power state of the camera system 1 to an on state or an off state, and a release switch (not shown) that receives an input of a still image release signal that gives a still image shooting instruction. A shooting mode switching switch (not shown) for switching between various shooting modes set in the camera system 1 and a moving image switch (not shown) for receiving an input of a moving image release signal for giving a moving image shooting instruction. The release switch can be advanced and retracted by an external pressure, and accepts an input of a first release signal (hereinafter referred to as “1st signal”) instructing a shooting preparation operation when half-pressed, and when fully pressed. An input of a second release signal (hereinafter referred to as “2nd signal”) for instructing still image shooting is accepted.

  The main body communication unit 49 is a communication interface for performing communication with the lens unit 2 attached to the body unit 3. The main body communication unit 49 supplies power from the power supply circuit 44 to each unit of the lens unit 2 via the lens communication unit 27.

  The Bucom 50 is configured using a CPU or the like. In response to an instruction signal from the camera operation SW 48, the Bucom 50 performs instructions and data transfer corresponding to each unit constituting the camera system 1 to control the operation of the camera system 1 in an integrated manner. The Bucom 50 is electrically connected to the body unit 3 through the main body communication unit 49 and the lens communication unit 27 so as to be able to communicate with each other in a bidirectional manner when the lens unit 2 is mounted on the body unit 3. Thus, the Lucom 28 is configured to operate while cooperating with the Bucom 50 in a dependent manner.

  In the camera system 1 configured as described above, under the control of the Bucom 50, the imaging unit interface circuit 36 causes the image processing controller 37 to output image data from the imaging device 341 of the imaging unit 34. This image data is converted into a video signal by the image processing controller 37 and output and displayed on the display unit 47. The user can virtually confirm an image taken from the image displayed on the display unit 47.

  Next, a detailed configuration of the above-described imaging unit 34 and the imaging unit moving drive mechanism 35 as the driving device of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a front view schematically illustrating a configuration example of the imaging unit movement drive mechanism 35 including the imaging unit 34 and the drive mechanism 300 according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC of FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line DD of FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, the imaging unit movement drive mechanism 35 includes an imaging unit 34, a moving frame 101, a fixed frame 102, an X-axis actuator 103, a Y-axis actuator 104, a holding mechanism 105, and a position. A detection sensor 106, an X-axis gyro 107, a Y-axis gyro 108, a Z-axis gyro 109, an X-axis acceleration sensor 110, a Y-axis acceleration sensor 111, an image stabilization control circuit 112, an actuator drive circuit 113, Is provided.

  First, a detailed configuration of the imaging unit 34 will be described. As shown in FIGS. 2 to 6, the imaging unit 34 includes an imaging device 341 that obtains an image signal corresponding to light that has passed through the lens unit 2 and is irradiated on the photoelectric conversion surface, and the photoelectric conversion surface side of the imaging device 341. The optical LPF 342 that removes high-frequency components from the subject light flux that is irradiated through the lens unit 2, the dust filter 343 that is opposed to the front surface of the optical LPF 342 at a predetermined interval, and the periphery of the dust filter 343. And a piezoelectric element 344 that provides predetermined vibration to the dustproof filter 343.

  Here, the image pickup device chip 341a of the image pickup device 341 is directly mounted on the flexible board 341b disposed on the fixed plate 345, and connection portions 341c and 341d extending from both ends of the flexible board 341b are provided on the main circuit board 346. The main circuit board 346 side is connected through the connectors 346a and 346b.

  Further, the protective glass 341e included in the imaging element 341 is fixed onto the flexible substrate 341b through a spacer 341f.

  Further, a filter receiving member 347 made of an elastic member or the like is disposed between the image sensor 341 and the optical LPF 342. The filter receiving member 347 is disposed at a position that avoids the effective area of the photoelectric conversion surface at the front surface side peripheral portion of the image sensor 341, and is in contact with the vicinity of the rear surface side peripheral portion of the optical LPF 342, thereby It is configured so that substantially airtightness is maintained between the optical LPF 342 and the optical LPF 342. A moving frame 101 (holder) that airtightly covers the image sensor 341 and the optical LPF 342 is disposed.

  The moving frame 101 has a rectangular opening 101a at a substantially central portion around the optical axis O1. A step portion 101b having a substantially L-shaped cross section is formed on the inner peripheral edge of the opening 101a on the dust-proof filter 343 side. The moving frame 101 is provided with an optical LPF 342 and an image sensor 341 from the rear side of the opening 101a. Here, the optical LPF 342 is disposed so that the front side peripheral edge portion of the optical LPF 342 is in substantially airtight contact with the stepped portion 101b, whereby the position of the optical LPF 342 in the optical axis O1 direction is regulated by the stepped portion 101b. It is prevented from slipping out from the inside to the front side.

  The moving frame 101 holds the imaging unit 34. The moving frame 101 is supported by the fixed frame 102 so as to be movable in the X axis direction, the Y axis direction, and the rotation direction around the Z axis. The moving frame 101 is supported by the sliding elements 201, 202, 203 such as three balls held in contact with the three sliding plates 102 a arranged on the fixed frame 102. The plate 101d is received, and holding springs 207, 208, and 209 are attached to the three protrusions 204, 205, and 206 provided to face the outer peripheral portions of the moving frame 101 and the fixed frame 102, and the moving frame 101 is rolled. It is supported by pressing the parts 201, 202, 203.

  The fixed frame 102 is fixed to the body unit 3. The fixed frame 102 supports the moving frame 101 so as to be movable in the horizontal direction or the vertical direction. Specifically, the fixed frame 102 supports the moving frame 101 so as to be movable in the X axis direction, the Y axis direction, and the rotation directions around the Z axis.

  With such a configuration, the moving frame 101 can freely move in an in-plane direction formed by three points where the three rolling portions 201, 202, and 203 come into contact with the sliding plate 101 d of the moving frame 101. In this case, the position of the moving frame 101 in the Z-axis direction is a planar position formed by three points where the rolling portions 201, 202, and 203 come into contact with the sliding plate 101d of the moving frame 101, and this plane is on the XY plane. Parallel. For this reason, when the X-axis actuator 103 and the Y-axis actuator 104 that constitute the drive mechanism 300 described later are not operating, the moving frame 101 is in the XY plane with respect to the fixed frame 102 by applying an external force such as gravity. Move freely in the direction. Specifically, the moving frame 101 moves in the gravity direction (−Y direction).

  Here, the drive mechanism 300 according to the present embodiment using the X-axis actuator 103 that drives the moving frame 101 in the XY plane direction and the VCM that is the Y-axis actuator 104 as drive sources will be described in detail. FIG. 7 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the VCM 301 constituting the drive mechanism 300 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the VCM 301 includes a coil 302, a magnet 303, and yokes 304 and 305.

  In the VCM 301, a coil 302 obtained by winding a conductive thin wire with insulation coating in a track shape is fixed to the moving frame 101 with an adhesive. The VCM 301 is magnetized in the Y direction so that the plate-like magnet 303 has a north pole on the lower side and a south pole on the upper side in FIG. 7, and is fixed to the fixed frame 102 with an adhesive or the like. The yokes 304 and 305 sandwich the coil 302 and the magnet 303 and are fixed to the moving frame 101 and the fixed frame 102 with an adhesive, respectively, so that the magnetic field lines of the magnet 303 or the magnetic field lines when current flows through the coil 302 do not leak outside. Thus, a magnetic circuit is formed. In this state, when a current is passed through the coil 302, the current is perpendicular to the magnetic force lines M of the magnet 303 in the two straight portions 302 a of the coil 302, and the direction of the magnetic force lines M and the direction of the current are 2 of the coil 302. Since the two straight portions 302a are in the opposite directions, a force acts in the same direction orthogonal to the magnetic lines of force M and the current, and the moving frame 101 is driven.

  On the other hand, the moving frame 101 is driven in the reverse direction when the direction of the current is reversed. It is also possible to change the force generated depending on the magnitude of the current flowing through the coil 302. In the first embodiment, the yokes 304 and 305 are separately provided. However, it is not necessary to provide the moving frame 101 and the fixed frame 102 by forming them with a magnetic material.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the drive mechanism 300 is provided with the VCM 301XA, VCM 301XB, VCM 301YA, and VCM 301YB, which are the VCMs 301 described above with reference to FIGS. The VCM 301XA and the VCM 301XB function as the X-axis actuator 103 by generating a driving force in the X direction. The VCM 301YA and the VCM 301YB function as the Y-axis actuator 104 by generating a driving force in the Y direction. Further, by applying different driving forces (in some cases, driving forces in opposite directions) to VCM 301YA and VCM 301YB, a driving amount in the rotational direction around the Z axis is generated. Based on the detection results of the position detection sensor 106 that detects the X-axis direction of the moving frame 101, the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the rotation direction around the Z-axis of the moving frame 101, the driving mechanism 300 Under control, the VCM 301XA, VCM 301XB, VCM 301YA, and VCM 301YB are each driven.

  By the way, even if the position of the moving frame 101 is stopped at a predetermined position with respect to the fixed frame 102 by the control of the actuator driving circuit 113, when the power of the driving mechanism 300 is turned off, it easily moves with a small external force.

  Therefore, the holding mechanism 105 according to the present embodiment for holding the moving frame 101 after the moving frame 101 is stopped at a predetermined position by the drive mechanism 300 will be described.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the holding mechanism 105 includes a flexible member 401 having a string shape, a contact member 402 provided at one end of the flexible member 401, and the contact member 402 fixed to one end. The other end is a plate shape fixed to the fixed frame 302 and is elastically deformed in the tensile direction of the flexible member 401, and is provided at one end of the flexible member 401. In order to apply the tensile force of the flexible member 401 as a pressing force, the end portion of the flexible member 401 is fixed, and the pressing plate 404 fixed to the support member 403 and the other end portion of the flexible member 401 are connected. A pulling mechanism 405 for pulling. Here, a mechanism may be adopted in which the contact member 402 is fixed to one surface of the pressing plate 404 by adhesion and is fixed to the support member 403 on the other surface.

  The flexible member 401 is configured using carbon fiber that is excellent in strength, weight reduction, and slidability. The flexible member 401 has a string shape or a belt shape. The flexible member 401 may be made of resin fibers having strength such as para-based polyamide fibers in addition to carbon fibers. The flexible member 401 is disposed on a triangular region T1 formed by straight lines passing through the rolling portions 201, 202, and 203 (see FIG. 2). In addition, the flexible member 401 may be arrange | positioned in the position which passes along any two or more centers of the rolling parts 201,202,203.

  The contact member 402 is made of a rubber material such as silicone rubber or EPDM (ethylene / propylene / diene rubber), and is fixed to the support member 403. The contact member 402 is detachable from the moving frame 101. The contact member 402 has a hole 402a through which the flexible member 401 passes.

  The support member 403 is formed using a plate made of stainless steel, phosphor bronze, or the like having a spring property. The support member 403 is formed so as to be easily displaced with respect to the pressing direction, and is formed with high rigidity so as to be hardly displaced with respect to a direction orthogonal to the pressing direction. The support member 403 has a substantially L-shaped cross section. One end of the support member 403 is fixed to the fixed frame 102 with screws 403a, and the contact member 402 is fixed to the other end. The support member 403 has a hole (groove) 403a through which the flexible member 401 passes.

  The pressing plate 404 is configured using a copper alloy such as iron, stainless steel, or brass. The pressing plate 404 has a hole 404a through which the flexible member 401 passes. The pressing plate 404 may be configured using a member that is plastically deformed after passing the flexible member 401 through the hole 404a, such as caulking. Further, the flexible member 401 and the pressing plate 404 may be fixed with an adhesive.

  The pulling mechanism 405 is connected to the flexible member 401 and puts the flexible member into a tensioned state or a relaxed state. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view in which a main part of the pulling mechanism 405 is schematically enlarged and developed. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the pulling mechanism 405 includes a roller 501, a step gear 502, a motor 503, a position sensor 504, a plate 505, and a plate 506.

  The roller 501 is disposed in a space K1 formed by a plate 505 and a plate 506 fixed to the fixed frame 102, and roller shafts 501a at both ends are rotatably held in holes of the plate 505 and the plate 506, respectively. The roller 501 includes a roller gear 501b, a winding portion 501c around which the flexible member 401 is wound, and a protrusion 501d (see FIG. 5) provided on the winding portion 501c to which the flexible member 401 is fixed. Have.

  The step gear 502 is disposed in the space K1, and the shafts 502a of the step gears 502 at both ends are rotatably held in the holes of the plate 505 and the plate 506, respectively. The step gear 502 includes a meshing gear 502b that meshes with the roller gear 501b of the roller 501, and a meshing gear 502c.

  The motor 503 is fixed to the plate 506, and a pinion gear 503b that meshes with the meshing gear 502c of the step gear 502 is provided at the end of the rotating shaft 503a.

  The position sensor 504 is configured using a photo interrupter or the like, and detects the rotational position of the roller 501.

  The plate 505 and the plate 506 are fixed by screws 508 with a spacer 507 interposed therebetween. Thereby, the tension mechanism 405 is configured. Further, the pulling mechanism 405 fixes the spacer 507 from the back surface of the fixed frame 102 with screws (not shown).

  The pulling mechanism 405 configured as described above includes the protrusion 501d of the roller 501 through the flexible member 401 through the contact member 402, the support member 403, the pressing plate 404, the hole 101e of the moving frame 101, and the hole 102a of the fixed frame 102, respectively. And fixed.

  Returning to FIGS. 1 to 6, the description of the imaging unit movement drive mechanism 35 will be continued. The position detection sensor 106 detects the rotation direction of the moving frame 101 around the X axis direction, the Y axis direction, and the Z axis. The position detection sensor 106 includes a hall element (not shown) arranged on the fixed frame 102 and a magnet (not shown) arranged on a part of the moving frame 101 so as to face the hall element. Composed.

  The X axis gyro 107 detects the angular velocity of rotation (blur) around the X axis of the camera system 1. The Y-axis gyro 108 detects the angular velocity of rotation around the Y-axis of the camera system 1. The Z-axis gyro 109 detects the rotational angular velocity and the rotation center position in the XY plane of the camera system 1. The X-axis acceleration sensor 110 detects the acceleration in the X-axis direction of the camera system 1. The X-axis acceleration sensor 111 detects the acceleration in the Y-axis direction of the camera system 1. X-axis gyro 107, Y-axis gyro 108, Z-axis gyro 109, X-axis acceleration sensor 110, and Y-axis acceleration sensor 111 are arranged on fixed frame 102.

  In order to compensate for camera shake, the image stabilization control circuit 112 is based on detection results detected by the X-axis gyro 107, the Y-axis gyro 108, the Z-axis gyro 109, the X-axis acceleration sensor 110, and the Y-axis acceleration sensor 111, respectively. Calculate the amount of camera shake compensation.

  The actuator drive circuit 113 drives the drive mechanism 300 to move the moving frame 101 based on the calculation result of the camera shake compensation amount of the image stabilization control circuit 112 under the control of the Bucom 50, thereby moving the moving frame 101. The imaging unit 34 is displaced and moved within a plane orthogonal to the optical axis O1.

  The shake correction operation and the neutral position holding operation performed by the imaging unit moving drive mechanism 35 including the imaging unit 34 and the drive mechanism 300 configured as described above will be described.

  First, the blur correction operation will be described. In this case, the X-axis gyro 107 detects the angular velocity of rotation (blur) around the X-axis of the camera system 1, and the Y-axis gyro 108 detects the angular velocity of the camera system 1 around the Y-axis, and the Z-axis gyro Reference numeral 109 denotes an angular velocity of rotation in the XY plane of the camera system 1 and a rotation center position. Subsequently, the image stabilization control circuit 112 calculates a camera shake compensation amount based on the angular velocity and the rotation center position of the camera system 1 detected by each sensor, and causes the imaging unit 34 to compensate for the shake. Move by 300. As a result, it is possible to compensate for blurring occurring in the image.

  Next, the neutral position holding operation will be described. First, in the camera system 1, the motor 503 of the pulling mechanism 405 rotates and the roller 501 rotates while the imaging unit 34 is controlled by the drive mechanism 300 about the optical axis O <b> 1 of the imaging lens 21 by the position detection sensor 106. When the flexible member 401 is pulled, the pressing plate 404 fixed to the flexible member 401 is pulled downward (FIG. 10A → FIG. 10B). In this case, the support member 403 is displaced, so that the contact member 402 fixed to the support member 403 presses the moving frame 101. As a result, the moving frame 101 comes into contact with the contact member 402 and presses the rolling portions 201, 202, and 203, and a frictional force is generated between the contact member 402 and the moving frame 101 by this pressing, and the fixed frame 102 is pressed. Can hold the moving frame 101.

  Subsequently, since one end of the support member 403 is fixed to the fixed frame 102, the contact member 402 is positioned and held with respect to the fixed frame 102. Thereby, the moving frame 101 is positioned and held by the fixed frame 102. When the energization to the drive mechanism 300 is stopped in this state, the flexible member 401 is maintained in a tensioned state by the mechanical frictional force of the mechanism system from the pinion gear 503b attached to the motor 503 to the roller 501. The positions of the moving frame 101 and the fixed frame 102 are maintained. That is, the moving frame 101 is held at a neutral position with respect to the fixed frame 102.

  Thereafter, when the drive system 300 is energized again, the camera system 1 rotates the motor 503 and relaxes the flexible member 401 in a state where the moving frame 101 is positioned on the fixed frame 102. The flexible member 401 is pulled and displaced by the spring force of the support member 403 (FIG. 10B → FIG. 10A), and at the same time, the contact member 402 fixed to the support member 403 is separated from the moving frame 101. Thus, the holding of the fixed frame 102 is released. Thereby, the moving frame 101 can be freely displaced with respect to the fixed frame 102.

  The imaging unit movement drive mechanism 35 having the above configuration moves the imaging unit 34 in accordance with the movement of the camera system 1, thereby blurring the subject image in the imaging unit 34 due to the movement of the camera system 1. It has a function to suppress, a so-called image pickup element shift type camera shake correction function. In the present embodiment, the driving mechanism 300 is applied to image sensor shift type camera shake correction. However, the lens shift method (tilt shooting or tilting) is used to correct image distortion by moving the photographic lens side with the driving device of the present invention. Of course, it may be applied to (photographing). In the imaging unit movement drive mechanism 35, the configuration of the actuator that moves the imaging unit 34 uses a VCM in this embodiment, but is not particularly limited to a rotary motor, a linear motor, an ultrasonic motor, or the like. Absent.

  Next, the operation of the camera system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the camera system 1 according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 11, when the power of the camera system is turned on, the lens unit 2 and the body unit 3 become operable, and the Bucom 50 in the body unit 3 starts camera control. That is, when the power switch is turned on and the Bucom 50 is activated, initialization is performed when the system is activated (step S101).

  Subsequently, the Bucom 50 detects an accessory such as a lens unit 2 or a strobe attached to the body unit 3 (step S102), activates each accessory, and operates a camera operation SW 48 such as a mode switch or a release switch of the camera system 1. The state is detected (step S103).

  Thereafter, the Bucom 50 determines whether or not the shake correction mode switch is on (step S104). When the Bucom 50 determines that the shake correction mode switch is on (step S104: Yes), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S126 described later. On the other hand, when the Bucom 50 determines that the blur correction mode switch is not turned on (step S104: No), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S105 described later.

  In step S <b> 105, the camera system 1 executes a neutral holding operation process for holding the imaging surface of the imaging unit 34 at the neutral position of the optical axis O <b> 1 of the lens unit 2. The detailed contents of the neutral holding operation process will be described later.

  Subsequently, the Bucom 50 determines whether or not the regeneration switch is on (step S106). If the Bucom 50 determines that the playback switch is on (step S106: Yes), the Bucom 50 performs playback by causing the display unit 47 to display an image corresponding to the image data stored in the recording medium 40 (step S107). . Thereafter, the camera system 1 proceeds to step S108. On the other hand, when the Bucom 50 determines that the playback switch is not in the on state (step S106: No), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S108.

  Thereafter, the Bucom 50 determines whether or not the moving image switch is on (step S108). If the Bucom 50 determines that the moving image switch is on (step S108: Yes), the Bucom 50 inverts the recording flag (step S09). Thereafter, the camera system 1 proceeds to step S110. On the other hand, when the Bucom 50 determines that the moving image switch is not in the on state (step S108: No), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S110.

  Subsequently, the Bucom 50 determines whether the camera system 1 is recording a moving image (step S110). Specifically, the Bucom 50 determines whether or not the camera system 1 is recording a moving image by determining whether or not a recording flag (for example, “0” → “1”) is set. When the Bucom 50 determines that the camera system 1 is recording a moving image (step S110: Yes), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S121 described later. On the other hand, when the Bucom 50 determines that the camera system 1 is not recording a moving image (step S110: No), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S111 described later.

  In step S111, if the first release switch is in the on state (step S111: Yes), the Bucom 50 performs photometry from the image data generated by the imaging unit 34, and controls the aperture 24 so that appropriate exposure is obtained. (Automatic exposure) processing is executed (step S112), and contrast AF processing is performed to control the focal position so that the image generated by the imaging unit 34 has the maximum contrast while moving the focus lens 21a (step S113). .

  Thereafter, the Bucom 50 causes the imaging unit 34 to capture an image and causes the display unit 47 to display a live view image corresponding to the image data generated by the imaging unit 34 (step S114).

  Subsequently, if the switch of the 1st release button is not in the off state (step S115: No), the camera system 1 returns to step S106. On the other hand, when the switch of the 1st release button is off (step S115: Yes), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S116.

  In step S116, the Bucom 50 determines whether or not the switch of the power button is in an off state. When the Bucom 50 determines that the switch of the power button is off (step S116: Yes), the camera system 1 ends this process. On the other hand, when the Bucom 50 determines that the switch of the power button is not in the off state (step S116: No), the camera system 1 returns to step S106.

  A case where the first release switch is not in the on state in step S111 (step S111: No) will be described. In this case, the Bucom 50 determines whether or not the switch of the 2nd release button is on (step S117). If the Bucom 50 determines that the switch of the 2nd release button is on (step S117: Yes), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S118. On the other hand, when the Bucom 50 determines that the switch of the 2nd release button is not in the on state (step S117: No), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S115.

  In step S118, the Bucom 50 causes the imaging unit 34 to perform still image shooting, causes the image processing controller 37 to perform image processing on the image data generated by the imaging unit 34 (step S119), and performs image processing. The stored image data is stored in the recording medium 40 (step S120). Thereafter, the camera system 1 proceeds to step S115.

  In step S121, the Bucom 50 executes AE processing and AF processing (step S122).

  Subsequently, the Bucom 50 performs moving image shooting continuously generated by the imaging unit 34 (step S123), sequentially performs image processing by the image processing controller 37 (step S124), and records the image data subjected to the image processing. Store in the media (step S125). Thereafter, the camera system 1 proceeds to step S116.

  In step S <b> 126, the Bucom 50 determines whether or not the imaging unit 34 is in the neutral holding state held at the center position of the optical axis O <b> 1 by the tension mechanism 405. When the Bucom 50 determines that the imaging unit 34 is in the neutral holding state held at the center position of the optical axis O1 (step S126: Yes), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S127 described later. On the other hand, when the Bucom 50 determines that the imaging unit 34 is not in the neutral holding state held at the center position of the optical axis O1 (step S126: No), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S130 described later.

  In step S127, the Bucom 50 outputs a drive signal to the actuator drive circuit 113 and starts driving the drive mechanism 300.

  Subsequently, the Bucom 50 outputs a drive signal for driving the motor 503 to the actuator drive circuit 113 to loosen the flexible member 401, and the contact member 402 is separated from the moving frame 101 by the spring force of the support member 403 to be neutral. The holding is released (step S128).

  Thereafter, the Bucom 50 determines whether or not the neutral holding state has been released based on the rotational position of the roller 503 detected by the position sensor 504 (step S129). When the Bucom 50 determines that the neutral holding state has been released (step S129: Yes), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S130. On the other hand, if the Bucom 50 does not determine that the neutral holding state has been released (step S129: No), the camera system 1 continues this determination.

  Subsequently, the camera system 1 starts a shake correction operation for correcting the camera shake of the user at the time of shooting (step S130), and proceeds to step S110.

  Next, the neutral holding operation process in step S105 will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an outline of the neutral holding operation process.

  As illustrated in FIG. 12, the Bucom 50 determines whether the imaging unit 34 is in the neutral holding state based on the rotational position of the roller 501 detected by the position sensor 504 (step S201). When the Bucom 50 determines that the imaging unit 34 is in the neutral holding state (step S201: Yes), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S202 described later. On the other hand, when the Bucom 50 determines that the imaging unit 34 is not in the neutral holding state (step S201: No), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S206 described later.

  In step S202, the Bucom 50 determines whether or not the imaging unit 34 is in the neutral position allowable range based on the detection result detected by the position detection sensor 106. When the Bucom 50 determines that the imaging unit 34 is in the neutral position allowable range (step S202: Yes), the camera system 1 returns to the main routine of FIG. 11 described above. On the other hand, when the Bucom 50 determines that the imaging unit 34 is not within the neutral position allowable range (step S202: No), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S203.

  Steps S203 to S205 correspond to steps S127 and S129 of FIG. 11, respectively.

  In step S206, the Bucom 50 outputs a drive signal to the actuator drive circuit 113 based on the position result of the moving frame 101 detected by the position detection sensor 106 so that the imaging unit 34 held by the moving frame 101 is at a predetermined neutral position. Is output, the X-axis actuator 103 and the Y-axis actuator 104 of the drive mechanism 300 are driven.

  Subsequently, the Bucom 50 determines whether the imaging unit 34 is within the allowable range of the neutral position based on the position result detected by the position detection sensor 106 (step S207). When the Bucom 50 determines that the imaging unit 34 is within the allowable range of the neutral position (step S207: Yes), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S208. On the other hand, when the Bucom 50 determines that the imaging unit 34 is not within the allowable range of the neutral position (step S207: No), the camera system 1 returns to step S206.

  After step S207, the Bucom 50 operates the motor 503 of the pulling mechanism 405 via the actuator drive circuit 113 and pulls the flexible member 401 with the roller 501, thereby pulling the contact member 402 against the moving frame 101. Driving is executed (step S208).

  Subsequently, the Bucom 50 determines whether or not a predetermined tension is applied by the tension mechanism 405 (step S209). When the Bucom 50 determines that a predetermined tension is applied by the tension mechanism 405 (step S209: Yes), the camera system 1 proceeds to step S210. On the other hand, when the Bucom 50 determines that the predetermined tension is not applied by the tension mechanism 405 (step S209: No), the camera system 1 returns to step S208.

  After step S209, the Bucom 50 stops the operation of the tension mechanism 405 via the actuator drive circuit 113 (step S210). As a result, the tension of the flexible member 401 by the roller 501 is stopped.

  Subsequently, the Bucom 50 determines whether or not the imaging unit 34 is within the allowable range of the neutral position based on the position result detected by the position detection sensor 106 (step S211). When the Bucom 50 determines that the imaging unit 34 is within the allowable range of the neutral position (step S211: Yes), the camera system 1 stops driving the drive mechanism 300 (step S212) and returns to the main routine of FIG. . On the other hand, when the Bucom 50 determines that the imaging unit 34 is not within the allowable range of the neutral position (step S211: No), the camera system 1 returns to step S203 and performs the neutral holding operation again. In the present embodiment, the number of times of performing the neutral operation is not shown, but when the neutral operation reaches a predetermined number, the neutral holding operation may be stopped and a warning may be displayed on the display unit 47.

  According to the embodiment of the present invention described above, the so-called VCM composed of a coil and a magnet as the first drive mechanism between the fixed frame 102 and the moving frame 101 and the rolling parts 201 to 201 that support the moving frame 101. 203, one end of which is fixed to the moving frame 101, the other end is fixed to a holding mechanism 105 including a motor as a drive source, and a string-like movable member provided with a contact member 402 for pressing and supporting the moving frame 101 is provided. When the flexible member 401 is provided and the moving frame 101 is driven by the VCM in a plane (XY plane) formed by the contact portions of the rolling portions 201 to 203, the flexible member 401 is relaxed by the holding mechanism 105. As a result, the frictional force of the contact member 402 is reduced, the output loss of the drive mechanism 300 (VCM) is reduced, and a large output is obtained. In addition, when driving of the driving device is stopped, the pressing member 404 is displaced in the pressing direction by pulling the flexible member 401 with the holding mechanism 105, thereby generating a large frictional force on the contact member 402, and The movable frame 101 is supported in a direction orthogonal to the pulling direction of the flexible member 401 by generating a large tension in the flexible member 401 and holding the contact member 402 by the support member 403, and the fixed frame The moving frame 101 can be securely held at 102. By loosening the flexible member 401, the contact member 402 can be separated from the moving frame 101 so that it does not act on the moving frame 101 at all. As a result, it is possible to efficiently use electric energy, and it is possible to drive in the XY plane and hold the moving frame at an arbitrary position in the XY plane with a simple and inexpensive configuration, and the driving force is large and precise. Control becomes possible.

  In addition, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the output of the moving frame 101 can be held at an arbitrary position even when driving is stopped while the output is high.

  Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, space is saved by using the string-like flexible member 401, and there is a degree of freedom in arrangement of the tension mechanism 405, and a simple drive mechanism 300 is used. Therefore, it can be made small and inexpensive. Further, when the drive device of the present invention is applied to an image device, it is a matter of course that the same effect can be obtained, but the effect is great in a small device that requires precise driving such as a camera.

  Furthermore, according to the embodiment of the present invention, since the pulling mechanism 405 is provided on the fixed frame 102, the space can be saved and the camera system 1 can be easily assembled.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the case where the camera system 1 is set to the camera shake correction mode has been described. However, the imaging unit 34 is located within a predetermined plane orthogonal to the optical axis O1 of the camera system 1. This can be applied even in the tilt shooting mode (tilt shooting or shift shooting) in which 34 is moved. In this case, the Bucom 50 drives the drive mechanism 300 via the actuator drive circuit 113 when the camera system 1 is set to the tilt shooting mode, so that the imaging unit 34 is orthogonal to the optical axis O1 of the camera system 1. , For example, may be moved to a position corresponding to an instruction signal input from the camera operation SW 48. In this case, the Bucom 50 stops the drive mechanism 300 and drives the pulling mechanism 405 when the image pickup unit 34 reaches the position corresponding to the instruction signal input from the camera operation SW 48 to move the image pickup unit 34 to a predetermined plane position. To stop. This makes it possible to use electric energy efficiently. ”With a simple and inexpensive configuration, it is possible to drive in the XY plane and hold the moving frame at any position in the XY plane, and the driving force is large and precise. Can be taken with simple control.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the image sensor 341 of the image capturing unit 34 is arranged as an optical element on the moving frame 101. However, a lens may be used instead of the image sensor 341. In this case, a lens unit having a camera shake correction function can be configured by applying to the lens unit 2.

(Modification 1)
In the embodiment described above, the structure of the imaging unit moving mechanism can be changed. FIG. 13 is a front view schematically showing an outline of the imaging unit movement drive mechanism 600 according to the first modification of the present embodiment. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line FF in FIG. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line GG in FIG. In the following description, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  As illustrated in FIGS. 13 to 15, the imaging unit moving mechanism 600 includes an imaging element 341, a moving frame 601, a fixed frame 602, and a holding mechanism 603. The imaging unit moving mechanism 600 includes the above-described X-axis actuator 103, Y-axis actuator 104, position detection sensor 106, X-axis gyro 107, Y-axis gyro 108, Z-axis gyro 109, and X-axis acceleration. Although the sensor 110, the Y-axis acceleration sensor 111, the image stabilization control circuit 112, and the actuator drive circuit 113 are provided, they are not illustrated for the sake of omitting the description.

  The moving frame 601 is formed with a protrusion 601 a that protrudes upward from the surface holding the imaging unit 34. The protrusion 601a has an inverted U-shaped cross section.

  The fixed frame 602 holds the moving frame 601. The fixed frame 602 has a substantially U-shaped cross section in FIG. The fixed frame 602 has a protrusion 602a around which a flexible member 401 described later is wound.

  The holding mechanism 603 includes a flexible member 401, a contact member 604, a support member 605, and a tension mechanism 405.

  One end of the flexible member 401 is wound and fixed to a protrusion 601 a provided on the outer peripheral side of the fixed frame 602, and the other end is wound and fixed to a roller 501.

  The contact member 604 is configured using an elastic member such as rubber or resin. The contact member 604 is fixed to the end portion of the support member 605. The contact member 604 has a hole at the center (see FIG. 15) and is formed in a cylindrical shape. The contact member 604 is formed to be slidable between the flexible member 401 and a central hole portion. The contact member 604 has a rubber pipe covered on the outer periphery of a flexible pipe formed of a resin material or a rubber coating on the outer periphery of the flexible pipe to prevent friction with the flexible member 401. May be formed.

  The support member 605 is formed using a plate made of springy stainless steel, phosphor bronze, or the like. The support member 605 is formed so as to be easily displaced with respect to the pressing direction, and is formed with high rigidity so as to be hardly displaced with respect to a direction orthogonal to the pressing direction. The support member 605 has a substantially L-shaped cross section. One end of the support member 605 is fixed to the fixed frame 602 with screws 403a, and two contact members 604 are fixed to the other end.

  An operation of the imaging unit moving mechanism 600 configured as described above will be described. First, the roller 501 is rotated to give a pressing force to the contact member 604 by applying tension to the flexible member 401, thereby pressing the cylindrical surfaces of the protrusions 601 a provided at two locations on the moving frame 601. As a result, the contact member 604 is deformed along the cylindrical surface of the protrusion 601a and holds the moving frame 601. In this case, the holding force is not only a frictional force between the cylindrical surface of the protruding portion 601a of the moving frame 601 and the contact member 604, but also a force (restoring force) for returning the deformation of the contact member 604 to the original, It will be a thing.

  Further, the deformation of the contact member 604 also deforms the end portion of the support member 605. By displacing the support member 605 in the pressing direction, the rigidity of the support member 605 is increased not only in the tensile direction of the flexible member 401 but also in the direction perpendicular thereto, and the moving frame 601 is more reliably held. Become.

  According to the first modification of the present embodiment described above, electric energy can be used efficiently, and driving in the XY plane can be performed with a simple and inexpensive configuration, and the moving frame 101 can be placed at any position in the XY plane. Can be held, and the driving force is large and precise control is possible (for example, a Y stage (intermediate support member) as shown in FIG. 2 of JP 2010-87982 A may be replaced). .

(Modification 2)
In the embodiment described above, the structure of the imaging unit moving mechanism can be further changed. FIG. 16 is a front view schematically showing an overview of the imaging unit movement drive mechanism 700 according to the second modification of the present embodiment. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line HH in FIG. In the following description, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  As illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17, the imaging unit moving mechanism 700 includes a moving frame 701, a fixed frame 702 that holds the moving frame 701, and a holding mechanism 703. The imaging unit moving mechanism 700 includes the imaging unit 34, the X-axis actuator 103, the Y-axis actuator 104, the position detection sensor 106, the X-axis gyro 107, the Y-axis gyro 108, and the Z-axis gyro 109 described above. And an X-axis acceleration sensor 110, a Y-axis acceleration sensor 111, an anti-vibration control circuit 112, and an actuator drive circuit 113.

  The holding mechanism 703 includes a flexible member 401, a contact member 704, a support member 705, and a tension mechanism 405.

  One end of the flexible member 401 is wound and fixed to a protrusion 702a provided on the outer peripheral side of the fixed frame 702, and the other end is wound and fixed to a roller 501.

  The contact member 704 is configured using an elastic member such as rubber or resin. The contact member 704 is configured using an elastic member such as rubber or resin. The contact member 704 is fixed to the end portion of the support member 705. The contact member 704 has a hole at the center (see FIG. 15) and is formed in a cylindrical shape. The contact member 704 is formed to be slidable between the flexible member 401 and the central hole.

  The support member 705 is formed using a plate made of stainless steel or phosphor bronze having spring properties. The support member 705 is formed so as to be easily displaced with respect to the pressing direction, and is formed with high rigidity so as to be hardly displaced with respect to a direction orthogonal to the pressing direction.

An operation of the imaging unit moving mechanism 700 configured as described above will be described. When the tension applied to the flexible member 401 by rotating the roller 501 is T and the pressing force applied to the contact member 704 is F _p , the following expression (1) is established.
F _p = 2Tsin θ (1)
Therefore, in this embodiment, it is preferable to arrange the contact member 704 as much as possible on the outer periphery of the moving frame 701 and increase the angle (θ).

Further, when the frictional force is F _f and the friction coefficient between the moving frame 701 and the contact member 704 is μ, the following equation (2) is established.
F _f = μ · F _p (2)
Therefore, it is preferable that the moving frame 701 and the contact member 704 have as high a friction coefficient (μ) as possible for the contact portions that are in contact with each other. For example, as the contact member 704, it is preferable that the contact member 704 is made of silicone rubber and the contact portion of the moving frame 701 is grained.

Further, in the X-direction holding is dependent on the tension T and the frictional force F _f of the flexible member 401 is determined by the more force is small frictional force F _f.

Further, Y direction of the holding, when only the tension T of the flexible member 401, the holding force in the Y direction depends on the bending force and the frictional force F _f of the flexible member 401 is determined by a smaller bending force . In the second modification of the present embodiment, the contact member 704 is fixed to the support member 705. Therefore, the support member 705, because it has a sufficient rigidity in the Y direction is determined by the frictional force F _f. Therefore, the support member 705 needs to have rigidity in the Y direction, but rigidity in other directions is not necessarily required.

Further, the holding in the Z direction is determined by the pressing force F _{p applied} to the contact member 704 by the tension T applied to the flexible member 401 by rotating the roller 501.

  According to the second modification of the present embodiment described above, electric energy can be used efficiently, driving in the XY plane with a simple and inexpensive configuration, and the moving frame 101 at an arbitrary position in the XY plane. Can be held, and the driving force is large and precise control becomes possible.

(Other embodiments)

  The camera system according to the present invention is also applicable to electronic devices such as digital cameras that can be equipped with accessories, digital video cameras, and mobile phones having a photographing function, and portable mobile devices other than digital single-lens reflex cameras. can do.

  The camera system according to the present invention can be applied to electronic binoculars with a camera shake correction function, in addition to a digital single lens reflex camera.

  In the description of the flowchart in the present specification, the context of the processing between steps is clearly indicated using expressions such as “first”, “after”, “follow”, etc., in order to implement the present invention. The order of processing required is not uniquely determined by their representation. That is, the order of processing in the flowcharts described in this specification can be changed within a consistent range.

  As described above, the present invention can include various embodiments not described herein, and various design changes and the like can be made within the scope of the technical idea specified by the claims. Is possible.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Camera system 2 Lens unit 3 Body unit 21 Imaging lens 21a Focus lens 21b Variable magnification lens 22 Lens drive part 23,106 Position detection part 23a, 23,106,504 Position detection sensor 24 Diaphragm 25 Diaphragm drive part 26 Lens storage part 27 Lens communication section 28 Lens control microcomputer 31 Shutter 32 Shutter charge mechanism 33 Shutter control circuit 34 Imaging section 35, 600, 700 Imaging section moving drive mechanism 36 Imaging section interface circuit 37 Image processing controller 38 SDRAM
39 FlashROM
40 Recording media 41 EEPROM
42 Strobe 43 Strobe control circuit 44 Power supply circuit 45 Power supply 46 LED for operation display
47 Display section 48 Camera operation SW
49 Main body communication unit 50 Microcomputer for body control 101, 601, 701 Moving frame 102, 602, 702 Fixed frame 103 X-axis actuator 104 Y-axis actuator 105, 603, 703 Holding mechanism 107 X-axis gyro 108 Y-axis gyro 109 Z-axis Gyro 110 X-axis acceleration sensor 111 Y-axis acceleration sensor 112 Anti-vibration control circuit 113 Actuator drive circuit 201, 202, 203 Rolling part 204, 205, 206 Protrusion part 207, 208, 209 Holding spring 300 Drive mechanism 301 VCM
301XA, 301XB, 301YA, 301YB VCM
303 Magnets 304, 305 Yoke 341 Image sensor 342 Optical low pass filter 343 Dust filter 344 Piezo element 345 Dust filter control circuit 401 Flexible member 402, 604, 704 Contact member 403, 605, 705 Support member 404 Press plate 405 Pulling mechanism

Claims (13)

A movable frame that is supported by being pressed against the fixed frame via a plurality of rolling portions, and is movable in the horizontal direction;
A drive mechanism for moving the moving frame in the horizontal direction within the fixed frame;
A contact member that is detachable from the moving frame;
The contact member is provided on one end side, and a support member that fixes the other end side to the fixed frame;
A flexible member to which the contact member is connected and can be pulled or relaxed;
A tensioning mechanism to which the flexible member is connected and to bring the flexible member into a tensioned state or a relaxed state;
With
When the flexible member is pulled by the tension mechanism, the moving frame comes into contact with the contact member and presses the rolling portion, and the fixed frame holds the moving frame by the frictional force generated by the pressing. On the other hand, when the flexible member is relaxed by the pulling mechanism, the contact member is separated from the moving frame, and the fixed frame releases the holding of the moving frame. At least three rolling parts are arranged on the fixed frame,
The drive device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible member is disposed on a region connected by straight lines that respectively pass through the plurality of rolling portions. Three rolling parts are arranged on the fixed frame,
3. The driving device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible member is disposed on a triangular region formed by straight lines that respectively pass through the three rolling portions.   The drive device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible member connects the contact member to one end side and disposes the other end side to the fixed frame. The moving frame has a protruding portion protruding from a plane,
The contact member is deformable;
The drive device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible member penetrates and holds the contact member.   The drive device according to claim 1, wherein the drive mechanism is any one of a voice coil motor, a linear motor, a rotary motor, and an ultrasonic motor.   The driving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the flexible member has a string shape or a band shape.   The drive device according to claim 1, wherein the tension mechanism is provided on the fixed frame.   The driving device according to claim 1, wherein an optical element is disposed in the moving frame. An imaging device that images a subject and generates image data of the subject,
A drive device according to claim 9;
When a predetermined photographing mode for displacing the position of the optical element is set, the driving device is driven so as to displace the optical element in a plane orthogonal to the photographing optical axis of the imaging device, and the flexible The tension mechanism is driven so that the elastic member is in a relaxed state. On the other hand, when the predetermined photographing mode is not set, the driving of the driving device is stopped and the flexible member is in a tensile state. A controller for driving the tension mechanism;
An imaging apparatus comprising: It further comprises a blur detection unit for detecting blur of the imaging device,
The predetermined shooting mode is a camera shake correction mode for compensating for a shake of the imaging device,
When the camera shake correction mode is set, the control unit is configured to displace the optical element within a plane orthogonal to the imaging optical axis of the imaging device based on the detection result detected by the shake detection unit. The imaging device according to claim 10, wherein the driving device is driven. The predetermined photographing mode is a tilt photographing mode in which the optical element is moved within a predetermined plane orthogonal to the photographing optical axis of the imaging device,
When the tilt shooting mode is set, the control unit drives the driving device to move the optical element within the predetermined plane, and when the optical element reaches the predetermined plane, The imaging device according to claim 10, wherein driving of the driving device is stopped to drive the pulling mechanism.   The image pickup apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the optical element is an image pickup element or an image pickup lens.

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