JP2017097010A - Imaging device and lens drive control method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent two lens groups moving in a direction orthogonal to an optical axis from interfering beforehand due to unexpected external force applied to an imaging device during an operation of collapsing a lens barrel part having the two lens groups provided.SOLUTION: An imaging device comprises: a retreat lens group that moves in a direction orthogonal to an optical axis upon a collapsing operation to retreat from the optical axis; a correction lens group that is provided movably in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis, and is received at a position before the retreat lens group retreats at a collapsing position; and control means that controls a drive of the retreat lens group and the correction lens group. When it is determined that the correction lens group approaches to a predetermined set position in a direction of the optical axis with respect to the retreat lens group on the basis of a detection result of positions of the retreat lens group and the correction lens group, the control means is configured to: move the correction lens group in a direction staying away from the retreat lens group; and control an amount of drive so as to vary in accordance with the detection result of the positions in the optical axis of the retreat lens group and the correction lens group.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus such as a digital camera, and more particularly to a lens drive control technique for an imaging apparatus including a lens barrel having two lens groups that move in a direction orthogonal to an optical axis.

  In an imaging apparatus such as a digital camera, the retractable length of the lens barrel increases with the recent increase in magnification. Therefore, a technique has been proposed for shortening the retractable length of the lens barrel by providing a retracting mechanism for retracting a part of each lens group constituting the imaging optical system of the lens barrel from the optical axis during the retracting operation. (Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent No. 5487823

  However, in Patent Document 1, in addition to the retractable lens group, an image blur correcting lens group that moves in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis is mounted, and the image blur correcting lens group is in the retracted position before retracting the retractable lens group. Stored in position. For this reason, during the retracting operation of the lens barrel, if an unexpected external force is applied, for example, the camera is shaken greatly while the retractable lens group and the image blur correcting lens group are close to each other, There is a possibility that the correction lens group interferes.

  Therefore, the present invention prevents the lens groups from interfering with each other due to an unexpected external force applied to the imaging apparatus during the collapsing operation of the lens barrel portion including the two lens groups moving in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis. It aims at providing the technology to do.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image pickup apparatus of the present invention can move in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis and a first lens group that moves in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis during retraction and retracts from the optical axis. A second lens group that is housed in a retracted position before the first lens group retracts from the optical axis, and a position that detects the positions of the first lens group and the second lens group. Based on the detection results of the positions of the first lens group and the second lens group by the detection means and the position detection means in a state where the first lens group is at the retracted position, Judgment means for judging whether or not the second lens group is approaching in the direction of the optical axis to a predetermined set position, and the judgment means judges that the second lens group is approaching to the set position The second lens Control means for moving the second lens group in a direction away from the first lens group by controlling a drive unit that drives the control unit, the control means from the first lens group of the second lens group. The drive unit is controlled so as to change the driving amount in the direction of separation according to the detection result of the position of the first lens group and the second lens group in the direction of the optical axis by the position detection unit. To do.

  The lens drive control method of the present invention includes a first lens group that moves in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis during retraction operation and retracts from the optical axis, and is movable in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis. The first lens group is a method for controlling the driving of the second lens group that is housed in a position before retracting from the optical axis, and the positions of the first lens group and the second lens group are determined. Based on the detection results of the positions of the first lens group and the second lens group in the position detection step to detect and the position detection step in the state where the first lens group is in the retracted position, the first lens group On the other hand, a determination step for determining whether or not the second lens group is approaching in the direction of the optical axis to a predetermined setting position, and the second lens group is approaching to the setting position in the determination step. Determined to be And a control step of controlling the drive unit that drives the second lens group to move the second lens group in a direction away from the first lens group, wherein the control step includes the second step. The driving amount of the lens group in the direction away from the first lens group is changed according to the detection result of the position of the first lens group and the second lens group in the optical axis direction in the position detection step. The drive unit is controlled.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent the lens groups from interfering with each other due to an unexpected external force applied to the imaging device during the retracting operation of the lens barrel portion including the two lens groups moving in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis. can do.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a system configuration of a digital camera that is an example of a first embodiment of an imaging apparatus of the present invention. It is a figure explaining operation | movement with a focus lens group and an image blurring correction lens group at the time of the retracting operation | movement of a lens-barrel part. It is a figure which shows the positional relationship of a focus lens group and an image blurring correction lens group at the time of retraction | saving operation | movement of a focus lens group. FIG. 6 is a graph showing the relationship between the energization amount to the lens barrel drive unit for each position of the image blur correction lens group during the retraction operation of the focus lens group. It is a flowchart explaining the lens drive control method of the focus lens group and the image blur correction lens group during the retracting operation of the lens barrel. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a positional relationship between a focus lens group and an image blur correction lens group during a retracting operation of the focus lens group in a digital camera that is an example of a second embodiment of an imaging apparatus according to the present invention. It is a flowchart explaining the lens drive control method of the focus lens group and the image blur correction lens group during the retracting operation of the lens barrel.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a system configuration of a digital camera which is an example of a first embodiment of an imaging apparatus of the present invention.

  As illustrated in FIG. 1, a digital camera 200 (hereinafter referred to as a camera 200) according to the present embodiment includes a system control unit 201, a lens barrel drive control unit 202, a lens barrel drive unit 203, a lens barrel unit 204, and an imaging unit 205. The imaging control unit 206 is provided. In addition, the camera 200 includes a display unit 207, a display control unit 208, a recording unit 209, an external recording unit 210, a strobe device 211, an operation unit 212, a power supply unit 213, and a power supply control unit 214.

  The system control unit 201 includes an exposure control unit 201a, a distance measurement control unit 201b, an image processing unit 201c, and a speed control unit 201d. The lens barrel unit 204 includes a zoom lens group 204a, a focus lens group 204b, a diaphragm 204c, a shutter 204d, an image blur correction lens group 204e, and a fixed lens group 204f. The focus lens group 204b corresponds to an example of the first lens group of the present invention, and the image blur correction lens group 204e corresponds to an example of the second lens group of the present invention.

  Details will be described below.

  The system control unit 201 controls the entire system based on a control program using a CPU or the like. In addition, the system control unit 201 uses the exposure control unit 201a, the distance measurement control unit 201b, the image processing unit 201c, and the speed control unit 201d to perform appropriate barrel control and image processing according to the situation.

  Specifically, the exposure control unit 201a and the distance measurement control unit 201b perform predetermined calculation processing using image data obtained from the imaging unit 205 and the imaging control unit 206, and based on the obtained calculation results A drive signal is transmitted to the lens barrel drive unit 203 through the drive control unit 202. The lens barrel unit 204 performs an operation related to AF (autofocus) processing and AE (automatic exposure) processing based on the drive signal transmitted from the lens barrel driving unit 203.

  The image processing unit 201c performs image data processing such as resizing processing such as pixel interpolation and image reduction and color conversion processing on data from the imaging control unit 206, the recording unit 209, or the external recording unit 210. The speed control unit 201d calculates the position and speed of the zoom lens group 204a and the focus lens group 204b based on a signal detected by an encoder using an optical sensor (not shown). Then, the obtained speed information is sent to the speed control unit 201d so that the drive speeds of the zoom lens group 204a and the focus lens group 204b become a predetermined target speed, and the lens barrel drive control unit 202 is calculated from the difference from the target speed. Send a control signal to

  The lens barrel drive control unit 202 is mainly configured by a driver IC or the like, and based on a control signal from the system control unit 201 and information obtained from an optical sensor or magnetic sensor (not shown), a sensor that detects inclination, and the like. A desired drive signal is transmitted to the drive unit 203. In addition, the lens barrel drive control unit 202 sends detection signals from the sensors to the speed control unit 201d.

  The lens barrel drive unit 203 is configured by a DC motor, a stepping motor, or the like. The lens barrel drive unit 203 is based on a control signal from the lens barrel drive control unit 202, and includes a zoom lens group 204a, a focus lens group 204b, an aperture 204c, a shutter 204d, an image blur correction lens group 204e, and a fixed lens of the lens barrel unit 204. The group 204f is driven.

  The imaging unit 205 includes an imaging element such as a CCD sensor or a CMOS sensor. The image sensor photoelectrically converts a subject light beam that has passed through a lens group that constitutes the photographing optical system of the lens barrel portion 204, and outputs the converted electrical signal. The electrical signal converted by the imaging device is converted into a video signal by a signal processing system circuit of the imaging control unit 206, subjected to predetermined processing, and output as a signal capable of video display.

  The display unit 207 is composed of an LCD or the like, and displays display image data sent from the display control unit 208 via a D / A conversion unit (not shown). The display unit 207 can display an EVF (Electronic View Finder) function by sequentially displaying the image data from the imaging unit 205 and the imaging control unit 206 through the display control unit 208.

  The recording unit 209 is used as a temporary recording medium for recording various data such as photographed video information, time information, and setting information, and image processing. The recording unit 209 also includes a memory device for storing various programs executed by the system control unit 201. Examples of the external recording unit 210 include recording media such as various memory cards. The external recording unit 210 stores image data that has been subjected to predetermined processing. The strobe device 211 has an AF auxiliary light projection function and a strobe light control function, and is controlled by the exposure control unit 201a and the distance measurement control unit 201b.

  The operation unit 212 includes various operation button groups, operation levers, operation dials, a touch panel provided on the display unit 207, and the like. For example, with the release button, the shutter switch SW1 is turned on by a half-press operation to instruct the start of AF processing, AE processing, etc., and the shutter switch SW2 is turned on by a full-press operation or the like to instruct the start of a shooting operation. Further, the zoom lever performs a scaling operation within a specified range while being pressed, and ends the operation when released.

  The power supply control unit 214 includes a power supply detection circuit, a DC-DC converter, an eddy current detection circuit, a battery remaining amount detection circuit, and the like. The power obtained from the power supply unit 213 is required to be a desired voltage for each system. Supply power accordingly. The power supply unit 213 includes a primary battery such as an alkaline battery or a lithium battery, a secondary battery such as a Li battery, an AC adapter, or the like.

  Next, the operation of the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 during the retracting operation of the lens barrel portion 204 will be described with reference to FIG. In this embodiment, the focus lens group 204b is taken as an example of the retractable lens group. In FIG. 2, the focus lens group 204b is gradually retracted in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis in accordance with the retracting operation of the fixed lens group 204f. Thereafter, the image blur correction lens group 204e is housed in the position before the retraction of the focus lens group 204b. In FIG. 2, only members related to the retracting operation of the focus lens group 204b are illustrated.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, the focus lens group 204b includes a focus lens 311, a focus base 312, a retraction rotating cylinder 313, a stopper guide 314, and a retraction guide 315. The focus lens group 204b moves in the optical axis direction along a guide bar 341 extending in parallel with the optical axis from the lens barrel base 340 by a focusing operation. As the lens barrel driving unit 203, a stepping motor is used. The retracting rotary cylinder 313 is integrated with the focus lens 311 by molding.

  The focus lens group 204b includes an imaging position where the focus lens 311 enters the imaging optical path and is disposed on the optical axis, and a retraction position where the focus lens 311 moves in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis and retracts from the optical axis. It is supported so that rotation is possible. Further, the focus lens group 204b is biased toward the photographing position by a biasing spring (not shown), and at the photographing position, the revolving rotary cylinder 313 is brought into contact with the stopper guide 314 and further rotation is restricted. Yes.

  The image blur correction lens group 204e includes an image blur correction lens 321 and an image blur correction base 322. The image blur correction lens group 204e is provided with an actuator (lens barrel drive unit 203) for driving the image blur correction lens group 204e in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis, a magnetic sensor for position detection, and the like. Yes.

  The fixed lens group 204f includes a fixed lens 331, a base 332, and a retracting guide tube 333. Further, the base 332 and the image blur correction base 322 of the image blur correction lens group 204e are respectively connected to a straight cylinder and a cam cylinder (not shown) constituting the zoom lens 204a, and in the optical axis direction in conjunction with the zoom operation. Moving.

  Next, the retracting operation of the focus lens group 204b will be described. First, in accordance with the retracting operation of the fixed lens group 204f, the protruding portion 333a of the retracting guide tube 333 contacts the protruding portion 313a of the retracting rotating tube 313 of the focus lens group 204b and rotates the retracting rotating tube 313 while pushing down.

  As the revolving rotary cylinder 313 rotates, the focus lens 311 gradually moves in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis from the stopper guide 314 toward the retreat guide 315 against the biasing force of a biasing spring (not shown) ( (Refer FIG.2 (b)). In the focus lens group 204b, when the retracting rotary cylinder 313 is pressed against the retracting guide 315, the retracting position when the lens is retracted is fixed and the retracting operation is completed (see FIG. 2C).

  Further, when the focus lens group 204b returns from the retracted position to the photographing position, the retractable rotating cylinder by the projecting portion 333a of the retracting guide cylinder 333 is moved as the rectilinear cylinder and the cam cylinder move out of the retracted position and move in the optical axis direction. The force which pushes down the protrusion part 313a of 313 is weakened. As a result, the retracting rotary cylinder 313 is rotated toward the photographing position by the urging force of the urging spring, contacts the stopper guide 314, and the focus lens 311 returns to the photographing position shown in FIG.

  Next, the operation of the image blur correction lens group 204e during the retracting operation will be described. In the following description, the image blur correction lens group 204e is described as the image blur correction lens 321.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the image blur correction lens 321 is housed in the position of the focus lens group 204b before the retraction after the focus lens group 204b is retracted. At this time, the image blur correction lens 321 moves in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis in the direction opposite to the retracted position of the focus lens group 204b so as not to interfere with the focus lens group 204b, and the position before the focus lens group 204b is retracted. (FIG. 2C).

  Here, it is considered that the image blur correction lens 321 moves toward the retracted position of the focus lens group 204b due to an unexpected external force during the operation of retracting the image blur correction lens 321 in the position before the focus lens group 204b is retracted. It is done. For example, it can be easily assumed that the camera 200 is moved during the retraction after the camera 200 is turned off. In this case, when the camera 200 is shaken strongly, the image blur correction lens 321 may interfere with the focus lens group 204b, and the lens may be damaged depending on the interference.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the positional relationship between the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 is detected. Specifically, the position of the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 is detected by two axes, ie, an optical axis direction and a direction orthogonal to the optical axis, and if necessary, an acceleration sensor as an example of an acceleration detection unit. Is used to detect an external force applied to the camera 200.

  When the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 come close to each other in the optical axis direction when retracted, the image blur correction lens 321 is moved in the direction opposite to the retracted position of the focus lens group 204b. Further, when the image blur correction lens 321 moves to the retracted position of the focus lens group 204b, it is not always necessary to drive the image blur correction lens 321 with the maximum driving force, and therefore the image blur correction lens 321 is the focus lens group 204b. An appropriate driving force is set according to the positional relationship.

  The timing for moving the image blur correction lens 321 in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis is determined by the positional relationship of each lens group managed by the pulse signal of the zoom encoder by the optical sensor. Further, the position detection result in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis of the image blur correction lens 321 by the magnetic sensor can be taken into consideration. Based on the detection results of these sensors, the relative positional relationship between the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 in the optical axis direction, and the positional relationship in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis between the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321. I understand.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 during the retracting operation of the focus lens group 204b. FIG. 4 is a graph showing the relationship between the energization amount to the lens barrel drive unit 203 for each position of the image blur correction lens 321 during the retracting operation of the focus lens group 204b. 4 corresponds to the position of the image blur correction lens 321 in FIGS. 3A to 3E.

  FIG. 3A is a diagram showing a positional relationship between the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 at the wide position before the retracting operation. FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating a positional relationship in which the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 at the retracted position approach each other in the optical axis direction during the retracting operation.

  FIG. 3C is a diagram illustrating a state in which the image blur correction lens 321 starts moving in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis with respect to the focus lens group 204b in the retracted position. FIG. 3D is a diagram showing a state in which the energization amount (drive current value) to the lens barrel drive unit 203 that drives the image blur correction lens 321 is maximum. FIG. 3E is a diagram illustrating a retracted state in which the image blur correction lens 321 is completely stored.

  As shown in FIG. 3A, the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens group 204e are arranged side by side on the optical axis from the wide position where the position of the lens barrel 204 can be photographed to the tele position. Yes.

  When the lens barrel 204 is retracted from the state shown in FIG. 3A, the focus lens group 204b moves to a retracted position in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, as shown in FIG. 3B. Then, after the movement of the focus lens group 204b to the retracted position is completed, the image blur correction lens 321 approaches the focus lens group 204b in the optical axis direction with the retracting operation.

  The center of the image blur correction lens 321 in FIGS. 3A and 3B is arranged on the optical axis, and the energization amount to the lens barrel drive unit 203 at this time is at positions A and B in FIG. As shown, it is the smallest energization amount during the retracting operation.

  When the lens barrel portion 204 is further retracted from the state shown in FIG. 3B, the image blur correction lens 321 approaching the focus lens group 204b in the optical axis direction as shown in FIG. The movement of the lens group 204b in the direction opposite to the retracted position is started.

  At this time, as shown in positions B to C in FIG. 4, the image blur correction lens 321 is driven by a driving amount (to the lens barrel driving unit 203 as the position of the focus lens group 204b in the optical axis direction approaches. The energization amount) gradually increases.

  The drive amount (movement amount) of the image blur correction lens 321 here is determined in advance by the relative position of the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 managed by the pulse signal of the zoom encoder. Since the position detection of the image blur correction lens 321 is known, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  When the lens barrel portion 204 is further retracted from the state shown in FIG. 3C, the driving amount of the image blur correction lens 321 (to the lens barrel driving portion 203 is shown) as shown in position C to position D in FIG. The energization amount) gradually increases, and the state shown in FIG. The driving amount of the image blur correction lens 321 at this time is maximized at the position D in FIG. 4, and the image blur correction lens 321 is positioned away from the retracted position of the focus lens group 204b in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis. Placed in.

  As a result, even when an unexpected external force such as a large shake of the camera 200 is applied while the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 are close to each other during the retracting operation, the image blur correction lens 321 is applied to the focus lens group 204b. Interference can be prevented in advance.

  When the lens barrel portion 204 is further retracted from the state shown in FIG. 3D, the image blur correction lens 321 is housed in the position before the focus lens group 204b is retracted, as shown in FIG. 3E. The At this time, the energization amount of the image blur correction lens 321 to the lens barrel drive unit 203 is maintained at a holding current sufficient to keep the image blur correction lens 321 in the retracted position until the camera 200 is turned off.

  Note that the image blur correction lens 321 can stably remain in the storage position by contacting the focus lens group 204b in a stopped state even when the energization amount to the lens barrel drive unit 203 is zero.

  Next, a lens driving control method for the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 during the retracting operation of the lens barrel portion 204 will be described with reference to FIG. Each process shown in FIG. 5 is executed by a CPU or the like of the system control unit 201 by, for example, developing a program stored in the recording unit 209 in a RAM (not shown).

  In FIG. 5, in step S <b> 501, the system control unit 201 drives the lens barrel driving unit 203 via the lens barrel drive control unit 202 by a user operation or system determination, and starts the retracting operation of the lens barrel unit 204.

  In step S502, the system control unit 201 starts detection by the zoom encoder for detecting the operation of the zoom lens 204a by the lens barrel drive control unit 202 simultaneously with the start of the retracting operation of the lens barrel unit 204. Then, the system control unit 201 starts counting the zoom pulses by the zoom encoder, detects the position of each lens group in the optical axis direction, and proceeds to step S503.

  In step S503, the system control unit 201 determines whether the zoom position of the lens group has reached the start point of the retracting operation of the image blur correction lens 321 based on the detection result of the position of each lens group in step S502. The system control unit 201 proceeds to step S504 when the zoom position of the lens group has reached the start point of the retraction operation of the image blur correction lens 321, and returns to step S502 when it has not reached. The zoom operation continues until At this time, it is assumed that the retracting operation of the focus lens group 204b has been completed.

  In step S504, the system control unit 201 drives the lens barrel drive unit 203 via the lens barrel drive control unit 202, starts the retraction operation of the image blur correction lens 321, and proceeds to step S505.

  In step S505, the system control unit 201 determines whether the position in the optical axis direction of the image blur correction lens group 204e with respect to the focus lens group 204b has approached a predetermined setting position T based on the zoom pulse count value by the zoom encoder. to decide.

  In determining the setting position T here, the position in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis of the image blur correction lens 321 can also be set finely according to the positional relationship of the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 in the optical axis direction. Is possible. From the viewpoint of suppressing the driving power of the image blur correction lens 321 due to an increase in energization, which will be described later, unnecessary power consumption can be suppressed by making the setting position in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis of the image blur correction lens 321 fine. it can.

  When the image blur correction lens 321 approaches the setting position T with respect to the focus lens group 204b (see FIG. 3C), the system control unit 201 proceeds to step S506 and does not approach the setting position T. If so, the zoom operation is continued.

  In step S506, the system control unit 201 increases the drive amount of the image blur correction lens 321 by increasing and changing the energization amount to the lens barrel drive unit 203 that drives the image blur correction lens 321 by the lens barrel drive control unit 202. The process proceeds to step S507. The method of increasing and changing the energization amount is as described above with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, and the system control unit 201 uses the lens barrel drive control unit 202 to adjust the image blur correction lens so that the changed target energization amount is obtained. The energization amount to the lens barrel drive unit 203 that drives 321 is gradually increased. In subsequent processing, in order to avoid a steep current change when the energization amount is changed, the energization amount is gradually changed toward the target energization amount in accordance with the zoom position, and the drive amount of the image blur correction lens 321 is changed. Go.

  In step S507, the system control unit 201 determines whether the image blur correction lens 321 has moved to the position closest to the focus lens group 204b in the optical axis direction (see FIG. 3D). If the system control unit 201 determines that the image blur correction lens 321 has moved to the closest position in the optical axis direction with respect to the focus lens group 204b, the process proceeds to step S508.

  In step S508, the system control unit 201 maximizes the drive amount of the image blur correction lens 321 by maximizing the energization amount to the lens barrel drive unit 203 that drives the image blur correction lens 321 via the lens barrel drive control unit 202. Then, the process proceeds to step S509. As a result, the image blur correction lens 321 is moved in the direction opposite to the retracted position of the focus lens group 204b. At this time, the image blur correction lens 321 moves with a maximum movement amount that can move in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis of the lens barrel portion 204 and comes into contact with the mechanical end. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 from interfering with each other due to an unexpected external force applied to the camera 200 during the retracting operation.

  In step S509, the system control unit 201 determines whether the position of the image blur correction lens 321 in the optical axis direction with respect to the focus lens group 204b has moved from the closest position. If the image blur correction lens 321 has moved from the closest position in the optical axis direction to the focus lens group 204b, the system control unit 201 proceeds to step S510. Otherwise, the system control unit 201 maximizes the energization amount. While continuing the zoom operation.

  In step S510, the system control unit 201 returns the energization amount before maximizing the energization amount to the lens barrel driving unit 203 that drives the image blur correction lens 321 via the lens barrel drive control unit 202, and returns to step S511. move on.

  Here, it is assumed that the position of the image blur correction lens 321 in the optical axis direction has passed the position where it interferes with the focus lens group 204b, and the energization amount to the lens barrel drive unit 203 driven by the image blur correction lens 321 is maximized. Return to the previous energization amount. In step S509, how far the image blur correction lens 321 is from the position closest to the focus lens group 204b and when the maximum energization ends is arbitrarily determined in advance in consideration of the mechanical configuration and the like.

  In step S511, the system control unit 201 determines whether or not the lens barrel portion 204 has reached the retracted position. If the lens barrel portion 204 has reached the retracted position, the process proceeds to step S512. If the lens barrel portion 204 has not reached the retracted position, the zoom operation is continued. When the lens barrel portion 204 reaches the retracted position, the image blur correction lens 321 is housed at a position before the focus lens group 204b is retracted (see FIG. 3E).

  In step S <b> 512, the system control unit 201 sets the energization amount to the lens barrel driving unit 203 that drives the image blur correction lens 321 by the lens barrel drive control unit 202 to the energization amount specified during the retracting standby. Then, after the setting of the energization amount is completed, the system control unit 201 stops energizing the lens barrel driving unit 203 in accordance with the power supply sequence defined by the system, and ends the process.

  As described above, in this embodiment, during the retracting operation, the image blur correction lens 321 moves in a direction away from the focus lens group 204b due to the positional relationship between the image blur correction lens 321 and the focus lens group 204b at the retracted position. To control the driving amount. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 from interfering with each other due to an unexpected external force applied to the camera 200 during the retracting operation.

  Note that when an acceleration sensor or the like detects that an unexpected external force of a certain level or more is applied to the camera 200 at a position other than a specific zoom position, an image blur correction is performed in the direction opposite to the retracted position of the focus lens group 204b as an emergency response. The lens 321 may be moved.

  Further, in addition to the position in the optical axis direction of the image blur correction lens 321 with respect to the focus lens group 204b, the position in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis is detected by a magnetic sensor or the like, and the image blur correction lens 321 has a two-axis positional relationship. The driving amount may be changed.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a digital camera which is an example of a second embodiment of the imaging apparatus of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Note that portions that overlap or correspond to the above embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings and symbols.

  In the present embodiment, the lens barrel control in the case where the retracting operation of the image blur correction lens 321 is not in time for the focus lens group 204b when an unexpected external force is applied to the camera 200 during the retracting operation will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 during the retracting operation of the focus lens group 204b.

  FIG. 6A is a diagram showing a positional relationship between the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 at the wide position before the retracting operation. FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating a positional relationship in which the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 at the retracted position approach each other in the optical axis direction during the retracting operation.

  FIG. 6C shows an optical axis direction from the center of the focus lens group 204b in which an unexpected external force is applied to the camera 200 from the state of FIG. 6B and the center of the image blur correction lens 321 is at the retracted position. It is a figure which shows the state which overlapped. FIG. 6D is a diagram illustrating a state in which the image blur correction lens 321 is moved from the state of FIG. 6C in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis so as not to overlap the focus lens group 204b in the optical axis direction. is there. FIG. 6E is a diagram illustrating a retracted state in which the image blur correction lens 321 is completely stored. 6 (a), 6 (b), and 6 (e) are respectively described in FIGS. 3 (a), 3 (b), and 6 (e) of the first embodiment. Since it is the same as the contents, the description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 6C illustrates a state in which the image blur correction lens 321 approaches the optical axis direction with respect to the focus lens group 204b (see FIG. 6B). This shows the case where an external force is applied. In this case, the center of the focus lens group 204b and the center of the image blur correction lens 321 overlap in the optical axis direction, and there is a possibility that the retraction of the image blur correction lens 321 in accordance with the collapsing operation may not be in time.

  Whether or not the image blur correction lens 321 is retracted in time is determined from the detection results of the position of the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 in the optical axis direction and the position orthogonal to the optical axis. When it is determined that the image blur correction lens 321 cannot be retracted in time, the collapsing operation is temporarily stopped.

  The positions of the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 are detected by the same method as in the first embodiment. Further, the acceleration in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the lens barrel portion 204 is detected by an acceleration sensor, and when the detection result exceeds a certain value, the retracting operation is temporarily stopped. Good. Either or both of the detection methods can be used.

  In FIG. 6D, from the state of FIG. 6C, the image blur correction lens 321 is moved in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis with respect to the focus lens group 204b to be separated from the focus lens group 204b, and in the optical axis direction. I try not to overlap. After the movement of the image blur correction lens 321 is completed, the collapsing operation temporarily stopped is resumed. The operation after the restart is the same as in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a lens drive control method for the focus lens group 204b and the image blur correction lens 321 during the retracting operation of the lens barrel portion 204. Each process shown in FIG. 7 is executed by a CPU or the like of the system control unit 201 by, for example, developing a program stored in the recording unit 209 in a RAM (not shown). Note that steps S701 to S708 and steps S713 to S716 in FIG. 7 are the same as the processes in steps S501 to S508 and steps S509 to S512 in the first embodiment (FIG. 3), respectively. Omitted.

  In FIG. 7, in step S709, the system control unit 201 determines whether or not the image blur correction lens 321 can be retracted from the focus lens group 204b after the drive amount of the image blur correction lens 321 is maximized in step S708. Determine. Here, the position of the image blur correction lens 321 in the optical axis direction with respect to the focus lens group 204b is detected by counting the zoom pulses as in the first embodiment, and the position in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis is It is detected by a sensor. Based on the biaxial positional relationship between the image blur correction lens 321 and the focus lens group 204b, that is, the detection result of the count value of the zoom pulse and the detection result of the magnetic sensor, the image blur correction lens 321 is relative to the focus lens group 204b. It is determined whether the evacuation operation is possible.

  If the system control unit 201 determines that the image blur correction lens 321 can be retracted from the focus lens group 204b, the system control unit 201 proceeds to step S713 and determines that the retracting operation is not in time (see FIG. 6C). ) Proceeds to step S710.

  In step S710, the system control unit 201 controls the lens barrel drive unit 203 via the lens barrel drive control unit 202 to temporarily stop the zoom operation of the lens barrel unit 204, and proceeds to step S711.

  In step S711, the system control unit 201 controls the lens barrel drive unit 203 via the lens barrel drive control unit 202 to reverse the image blur correction lens 321 in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis to the retracted position of the focus lens group 204b. Then, the process proceeds to step S712. Here, the image blur correction lens 321 is moved in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis so as to be sufficiently away from the focus lens group 204b.

  In step S712, the system control unit 201 controls the lens barrel drive unit 203 via the lens barrel drive control unit 202 to restart the zoom operation of the lens barrel unit 204, and proceeds to step S713. Other configurations and operational effects are the same as those of the first embodiment.

  The configuration of the present invention is not limited to those exemplified in the above embodiments, and the material, shape, dimensions, form, number, arrangement location, and the like are appropriately changed without departing from the gist of the present invention. Is possible.

200 Camera 201 System control unit 202 Lens barrel drive control unit 203 Lens barrel drive unit 204 Lens barrel unit 204b Focus lens group 204e Image blur correction lens group 311 Focus lens 321 Image blur correction lens

Claims (8)

A first lens group that moves in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis during retracting operation and retracts from the optical axis;
A second lens group provided so as to be movable in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and housed in a retracted position before the first lens group retracts from the optical axis;
Position detecting means for detecting positions of the first lens group and the second lens group;
Based on the detection results of the positions of the first lens group and the second lens group by the position detection means in a state where the first lens group is in the retracted position, the second lens group with respect to the first lens group. Determining means for determining whether or not is approaching in the direction of the optical axis to a predetermined setting position;
When the determination unit determines that the second lens group is approaching the set position, the driving unit that drives the second lens group is controlled to control the second lens group to the first lens group. Control means for moving in a direction away from
The control means detects the driving amount of the second lens group in the direction away from the first lens group, and the position detection means detects the position of the first lens group and the second lens group in the direction of the optical axis. An image pickup apparatus that controls the drive unit so as to be changed according to the condition.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the position detection unit detects positions of the first lens group and the second lens group in a zoom position in the direction of the optical axis.   When the second lens group moves in a direction away from the first lens group, the control means determines the position of the second lens group detected by the position detection means in the direction of the optical axis. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an energization amount to the driving unit that drives the second lens group is changed. An acceleration detection means;
When the acceleration detecting means detects that a certain level of acceleration is applied, the control means controls the drive unit that drives the second lens group to move the second lens group away from the first lens group. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the imaging apparatus is moved in a direction.   The control means moves the second lens group to an end opposite to a direction in which the first lens group is retracted based on a detection result by the position detection means or the acceleration detection means. 5. The imaging device according to 4. The position detecting means detects a position of the second lens group in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis;
The control means determines the position of the second lens group in the direction of the optical axis by the position detection means when the determination means determines that the second lens group is approaching the set position. 6. The drive unit according to claim 1, wherein the drive unit is controlled so as to temporarily stop the movement of the second lens group based on a position in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis. Imaging device.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second lens group is an image blur correction lens group. A first lens group that moves in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis during retracting operation and retracts from the optical axis is provided so as to be movable in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis. A method of controlling driving with the second lens group housed in a position before retracting from a shaft,
A position detecting step for detecting positions of the first lens group and the second lens group;
Based on the detection results of the positions of the first lens group and the second lens group in the position detecting step in a state where the first lens group is in the retracted position, the second lens group with respect to the first lens group. A determination step for determining whether or not the optical axis is approaching the predetermined setting position in the direction of the optical axis;
When it is determined in the determining step that the second lens group is approaching to the set position, the driving unit that drives the second lens group is controlled to control the second lens group to the first lens group. And a control step for moving in a direction away from
The control step detects the driving amount of the second lens group in the direction away from the first lens group, and detects the positions of the first lens group and the second lens group in the direction of the optical axis in the position detection step. A lens drive control method, wherein the drive unit is controlled to change according to a result.

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