Image pickup apparatus equipped with heat dissipation mechanism

An image pickup apparatus that can efficiently solve problems caused by heat generated by a heat generating element. The image pickup apparatus including a sensor substrate configured to implement an image sensor, and a main circuit board configured to implement a heat generating element. A length of the main circuit board is longer than a length of the sensor substrate in a width direction of the image pickup apparatus. The main circuit board is aslant arranged to an optical axis of the image pickup apparatus so that a first space part will be provided between the sensor substrate and the main circuit board. A cross section of the first space part in a plane that is parallel to both the optical axis and the width direction is approximately triangle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus equipped with a heat dissipation mechanism that radiates heat generated inside the apparatus to an outside.

Description of the Related Art

Substrates that implement heat generating elements, such as a main process substrate that implements a semiconductor device for an image process and a sensor substrate that implements an image sensor, are mounted inside an image pickup apparatus. Heat generated by a heat generating element may deteriorate performance of another electric elements on the substrate that implements the heat generating element. Moreover, the heat generated by the heat generating element raises temperature of an exterior of the image pickup apparatus, which may give displeasure to a user who holds the image pickup apparatus. Accordingly, it is necessary to discharge the heat generated by the heat generating element to the outside efficiently.

As a method of discharging heat generated inside an image pickup apparatus to the outside, there is a forced air cooling method that takes in air from the outside of the image pickup apparatus using a fan into the apparatus, cools the inside of the apparatus with the taken air, and discharges the warmed air to the outside of the apparatus (for example, see Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication (Kokai) No. 2014-45345 (JP 2014-45345A)).

In recent years, a size and pixel number of an image sensor increase accompanying to a demand of enhancement of image quality, and a video capturing function in a high frame rate is demanded. These situations tend to increase the heat generation amount of heat generating elements, such as an image sensor and a semiconductor device for an image process. Accordingly, a method of efficiently solving various problems like image abnormality caused by the heat generated inside the image pickup apparatus is required.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an image pickup apparatus that can efficiently solve problems caused by heat generated by a heat generating element.

Accordingly, a first aspect of the present invention provides an image pickup apparatus including a sensor substrate configured to implement an image sensor, and a main circuit board configured to implement a heat generating element. A length of the main circuit board is longer than a length of the sensor substrate in a width direction of the image pickup apparatus. The main circuit board is aslant arranged to an optical axis of the image pickup apparatus so that a first space part will be provided between the sensor substrate and the main circuit board. A cross section of the first space part in a plane that is parallel to both the optical axis and the width direction is approximately triangle.

According to the present invention, the image pickup apparatus can efficiently solve problems caused by heat generated by a heat generating element.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Hereafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail by referring to the drawings.

FIG.1A,FIG.1B, andFIG.1Care external perspective views showing an image pickup apparatus1according to one embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from different directions, respectively.

An orthogonal coordinate system that consists of an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis that mutually intersect at the right angle is defined inFIG.1A,FIG.1B, andFIG.1Cfor convenience of description. The Z-axis is parallel to a photographing optical axis of the image pickup apparatus1. A direction directed from the image pickup apparatus1toward an object (not shown) is a forward direction (+Z). Moreover, the X-axis is parallel to a width direction of the image pickup apparatus1in a plane that intersects perpendicularly with the Z-axis. A direction directed from the left side toward the right side when the image pickup apparatus1is viewed from the object side is a forward direction (+X). The Y-axis that intersects perpendicularly with the X-axis and the Z-axis is parallel to a height direction. A direction directed from a bottom side toward an upper side is a forward direction (+Y).

The image pickup apparatus1has an image pickup apparatus body2(hereinafter referred to as a “camera body2”), a lens3, a grip belt4, and a handle unit4000. The camera body2contains main functions of the image pickup apparatus1, such as a main control substrate that totally controls the image pickup apparatus1, an image sensor that converts incident light through the lens3into an electrical signal, a power source, and a recording unit that records image data.

Various kinds of operating members and terminals are arranged in predetermined positions of the external appearance of the camera body2. For example, the camera body2of the image pickup apparatus1is provided with operation members, such as a power switch5that switches ON/OFF of the power source of the image pickup apparatus1, a release button that instructs a photographing start, a menu button for various settings, a move button, and a selection button. Moreover, the camera body2is provided with a medium lid6that protects a contained recording medium, such as a card type recording medium, and a microphone unit700that records external voice. Furthermore, the camera body2is provided with an external terminal lid7that protects connection terminals, such as a USB terminal and a HDMI (registered trademark) terminal, that are used for connection with external devices.

A DC jack lid8that protects a DC jack terminal and a battery chamber201athat stores a battery are provided in a back side (−Z side) of the camera body2. Internal tripod threads11a,11b, and11cfor supporting the camera body2with a tripod or a rig are provided in a bottom cover10arranged at the bottom side (−Y side) of the camera body2.

The lens3is attached to the front side (+Z side) of the camera body2. Various lenses that are different in focal length, an open F value, and a zoom function, etc. are prepared. A user can exchange the lens3attached to the camera body2in accordance with a photographing condition.

The camera body2mounts a forced air cooling function using a fan as a cooling mechanism for cooling heat generating elements (various kinds of electronic parts that generate heat by operating) implemented on substrates contained. The camera body2has a main body inlet port12that opens toward the +X-direction of the camera body2as an inlet port (FIG.1B). Moreover, the camera body2has a first body exhaust port13that opens toward the −X-direction as an exhaust port (FIG.1A). Then, a second body exhaust port14that opens toward the −Y-direction is provided in the bottom cover10and a third body exhaust port15is provided in the battery chamber201a(FIG.1C).

The image pickup apparatus1is configured so as to attach the grip belt4, which assists grip of the grip unit300by a user (photographing person), to the lower part of the first body exhaust port13. Accordingly, when the user holds the camera body2using the grip belt4, an exhaust wind does not hit a gripping hand. Moreover, the second body exhaust port14opens to the back side (−Z side) of the camera body2and does not open to the front side (+Z side). Accordingly, since the second body exhaust port14cannot be seen when the image pickup apparatus1is seen from the front side, a fine view is maintained. Moreover, since the second body exhaust port14is not closed by a floor when the camera body2is put on the floor, exhaust air can escape to the back side without being disturbed by the floor, which does not impair cooling performance of the camera body2.

When a battery is stored in the battery chamber201a, a certain distance is held between the third body exhaust port15and the battery, which secures an exhaust air flow passage. In the meantime, since the battery hides the third body exhaust port15, the third body exhaust port15cannot be seen by the user, which maintains the fine view. It should be noted that details of the forced air cooling, such as an arrangement of a cooling fan, will be mentioned later.

FIG.1Dis an exploded perspective view showing the image pickup apparatus1by dividing into rough units. The camera body2is provided with an F unit2000, an ND unit1000, a sensor unit108, a main unit100, and a rear unit200that are arranged toward the −Z side from the +Z side. moreover, the camera body2is provided with an R unit400in the +X side, a grip unit300at the −X side, a bottom unit600in the −Y side, and a top unit3000and handle unit4000at the +Y side.

The main unit100has forced cooling components, such as a duct and a cooling fan. The rear unit200has a liquid crystal panel and the battery chamber201a. The grip unit300contains recording media. The R unit400has an external connection terminal and the main body inlet port12. The sensor unit108has a sensor substrate in which an image sensor is implemented. The ND unit1000is provided with a plurality of optical filters that adjust a light amount entering into the image sensor. The F unit2000has a mount part for detaching and attaching the lens3. The bottom unit600has a tripod part. The top unit3000has the power switch5. The handle unit4000can be detachably attached to the top unit3000. It should be noted that the lens3is detachably attached to the mount part of the F unit2000.

Assembly procedures of the image pickup apparatus1are as follows. First, the main unit100is attached to the rear unit200, the grip unit300is attached to this, and then the R unit400is attached. The F unit2000to which the sensor unit108and ND unit1000are attached is attached to the units assembled so far. When the top unit3000and the bottom unit600are further attached, the camera body2is completed. When the desired lens3is attached to the F unit2000and the handle unit4000is attached to the top unit3000, the image pickup apparatus1is completed. It should be noted that details of the ND unit1000, F unit2000, top unit3000, and handle unit4000will be mentioned later.

Next, the heat dissipation system of the image pickup apparatus1will be described.FIG.2AandFIG.2Bare the exploded perspective views showing the main unit100that has a heat dissipation mechanism viewed from different directions, respectively.FIG.3AandFIG.3Bare perspective views showing the main unit100viewed from different directions, respectively.

As shown inFIG.2AandFIG.2B, the heat dissipation system of the image pickup apparatus1is constituted by a main circuit board101, a cooling fan102, a cooling fan cushion103, a main duct104, a heat dissipation rubber105, a sensor duct106, a sensor heat dissipation member107, and the sensor unit108. The main circuit board101implements heat generating elements, such as an image processing semiconductor device, that generate heat during operations. Accordingly, the main circuit board101is one of heating components. Moreover, since the sensor unit108also includes the image sensor that generates heat during an operation, the sensor unit108is one of the heating components.

In the image pickup apparatus1, air taken in by the cooling fan102into the inside from the outside of the camera body2flows into the main duct104and sensor duct106that are made from metal material, such as aluminum, that has high thermal conductivity. Since the heat is exchanged between the air flowing into these ducts and the heat dissipation rubber105and sensor heat dissipation member107that have high thermal conductivity, the main circuit board101and sensor unit108, which are the heating components, are cooled, and the heated air is discharged to the outside.

It should be noted that an inlet port104aof the main duct104shown inFIG.3Ais connected to the main body inlet port12shown inFIG.1B. A first exhaust port104bshown inFIG.3Bis connected to the first body exhaust port13shown inFIG.1A. A second exhaust port104cis connected to the second body exhaust port14shown inFIG.1C. And a third exhaust port104dis connected to the third body exhaust port15shown inFIG.1C. Details of the heat dissipation system will be mentioned later.

Next, the airflow in the main duct104will be described.FIG.4Ais a back view (viewed from the −Z side) of the main unit100.FIG.4Bis a sectional view taken along a line A-A shown inFIG.4Aand is a view describe an airflow in the main duct104. It should be noted that the sensor duct106and the sensor heat dissipation member107are not displayed inFIG.4AandFIG.4B.FIG.5is a view showing the airflow flowing through the main duct104in a state where the main unit100is partially omitted. It should be noted thatFIG.5shows the main duct104in a simplified form. As shown by arrows FL1, FL2, and FL3, the air inhaled from the inlet port104aby the cooling fan102passes along the cooling fan102and is exhausted from three places, the first exhaust port104b, the second exhaust port104c, and the third exhaust port104d.

Next, the airflow in the sensor duct106will be described.FIG.6AandFIG.6Bare exploded perspective views showing the main duct104and sensor duct106viewed from different directions, respectively.

In order to send the air flowing in the main duct104into the sensor duct106, a first sensor-duct opening104eand second sensor-duct opening104fare provided in the main duct104. Moreover, the sensor duct106is provided with a first main duct opening106aand a second main duct opening106bin positions that face these openings of the main duct104in the Z direction. The first sensor-duct opening104eis connected to the first main duct opening106a, and the second sensor-duct opening104fis connected to the second main duct opening106b.

FIG.7Ais a view describing the airflow toward the first sensor-duct opening104ein the main duct104.FIG.7Bis a view describing the airflow toward the second main duct opening106bin the sensor duct106. It should be noted thatFIG.7AandFIG.7Bdo no show a main duct cover104g, a sensor duct plate106c, and the cooling fan102. As shown by an arrow FL4, the air flowing through the main duct104is guided to the first sensor-duct opening104e. The air guided to the first sensor-duct opening104eis introduced into the sensor duct106through the first main duct opening106a. As shown in an arrow FL5inFIG.7B, the air introduced into the sensor duct106through the first main duct opening106apasses through the inside of the sensor duct106and flows to the second main duct opening106b. The air that flows into the second main duct opening106breturns to the main duct104through the second sensor-duct opening104fconnected to the second main duct opening106b, and then, the air is exhausted from the first exhaust port104b.

In this way, the air inhaled from the inlet port104apasses through the main duct104and sensor duct106, and is exhausted from the first exhaust port104b, the second exhaust port104c, and the third exhaust port104din the image pickup apparatus1. Meanwhile, since the heat is exchanged with the air in the main duct104and sensor duct10, the heating components arranged inside the image pickup apparatus1are cooled.

FIG.8AandFIG.8Bare views describing a thermal connection between the main duct104and the main circuit board101. Specifically.FIG.8Ais a back view showing the positional relationship between the main duct104and the main circuit board101.FIG.8Bis a sectional view taken along a line B-B shown inFIG.8A.

A first heat generating element101a, a second heat generating element101b, and a third heat generating element101care implemented in the main circuit board101. These heat generating elements are thermally connected to the main duct104through the heat dissipation rubber105. Thereby, since the heat is exchanged between the main duct104and the air, the first heat generating element101a, the second heat generating element101b, and the third heat generating element101ccan be cooled. It should be noted that the number of the heat generating elements implemented in the main circuit board101may not be restricted to three, may be less or more.

FIG.9AandFIG.9Bare views describing a thermal connection between the sensor duct106and the sensor unit108. Specifically,FIG.9Ais a back view showing the positional relationship between the sensor duct106and the sensor unit108.FIG.9Bis a sectional view taken along a line C-C shown inFIG.9A. The heat generated in the sensor unit108is conducted to the sensor duct106through the sensor heat dissipation member107that has high thermal conductivity. Thereby, the sensor unit108can be cooled by exchanging the heat between the sensor duct106and the air.

As mentioned above, the main duct104and the sensor duct106perform the cooling function as heat sinks. When focusing on the positional relationship with the cooling fan102, the sensor duct106as an image sensor heat sink (first heat sink) that cools the sensor unit108is provided in the exhaust side of the cooling fan102as shown by the airflow shown inFIG.7Bin this embodiment. Moreover, as shown inFIG.4B, the main duct104as a main-circuit-board heat sink (second heat sink) that cools the main circuit board101is provided in the inlet side and exhaust side of the cooling fan102.

However, the embodiment is not limited to the structure where the image sensor heat sink is arranged at the exhaust side of the cooling fan102and the main-circuit-board heat sink is arranged in the inlet side and exhaust side. The main-circuit-board heat sink may be arranged in the inlet side only or the exhaust side only. Moreover, the image sensor heat sink and the main-circuit-board heat sink may be arranged in the inlet side of the cooling fan102.

Next, an inner layout of the image pickup apparatus1will be described.FIG.10Ais a front view showing the image pickup apparatus1.FIG.10BandFIG.10Care sectional views taken along a line D-D shown inFIG.10A.FIG.10Bis a view describing a relation between the layout of the main circuit board101and sensor substrate109and the sensor duct106.FIG.10Cis a view describing the influence of the heat that is generated by the main circuit board101on vicinities of the main circuit board101.

It is necessary to arrange the sensor substrate109so that the image pickup surface of the implemented image sensor2006will perpendicularly intersect with an optical axis Oa. There is no such restriction in the main circuit board101. The length of the main circuit board101is longer than the length of the sensor substrate109in the width direction of the image pickup apparatus1, Accordingly, in the camera body2, the main circuit board101is aslant arranged to the optical axis Oa (not to intersect perpendicularly) so that a first space part S1will be provided between the sensor substrate109and the main circuit board101. A cross section of the first space part S1in an XZ plane that is parallel to both the optical axis Oa and the width direction (X-direction) is approximately triangle. An efficient arrangement of the sensor duct106and efficient waste heat become available by arranging the sensor duct106to the first space part S1formed in this way.

Moreover, an operation substrate310that implements a grip operating member301is arranged inside the grip unit300so as to be approximately parallel to the sensor substrate109at the back side of the image pickup apparatus1. Accordingly, since the main circuit board101is aslant arranged to the optical axis Oa, a second space part S2is formed between the operation substrate310and the main circuit board101. A cross section of the second space part S2in the XZ plane is approximately triangle. A part of the main duct104that cools the main circuit board101is arranged in the second space part S2. Since the second space part S2reduces heat transmission from the main circuit board101to the operation substrate310, the temperature rise of the grip unit300whole including the grip operating member301can be reduced.

If the main circuit board101is provided in parallel to the sensor substrate109, the distance between both substrates is constant in the distance L1inFIG.10C, for example. Against this, in the image pickup apparatus1, since the main circuit board101is aslant arranged, the distance L11becomes longer than the distance L1at a certain position, which reduces the heat conducted from the sensor substrate109from the main circuit board101as compared with the case where both the substrates are arranged in parallel. Accordingly, occurrence of an image abnormality due to the heat conducted from the main circuit board101to the sensor substrate109can be reduced, which addresses one of the thermal issues related to the specification of the image pickup apparatus1.

Moreover, the distance between the operation substrate310of the grip unit300and the main circuit board101is L2shown inFIG.10Cin a case where the main circuit board101is arranged in approximately parallel to the sensor substrate109. Against this, in the image pickup apparatus1, since the main circuit board101is aslant arranged, the distance L12becomes longer than the distance L2at a certain position, which reduces the heat conducted to the grip operating member301from the main circuit board101because the both become distant. That is, since the temperature rise of the grip operating member301is reduced, unpleasant feeling of a user who operates the grip operating member301can be reduced or abolished.

FIG.11Ais a perspective view showing the positional relationship between the rear cover201and the main circuit board101.FIG.11Bis a top plan (view seen from the +Y side) showing the positional relationship between the rear cover201and the main circuit board101.FIG.12Ais a front view showing the positional relationship between the battery chamber201aof the rear cover201and the main circuit board101.FIG.12Bis a view describing an effect obtained by arranging the main circuit board101aslant to the optical axis Oa.

As shown inFIG.12A, a part of the main circuit board101overlaps with the battery chamber201aon a plane of projection in the optical axis direction. Accordingly, if the main circuit board101is not arranged aslant against the present embodiment, it becomes necessary to cut the main circuit board101in an interaction region S10shown inFIG.12Bso that the main circuit board101may not interfere with the battery chamber201a.

Against this, in the image pickup apparatus1, the main circuit board101is aslant arranged to the optical axis Oa as shown inFIG.10BandFIG.10C. Accordingly, since it is unnecessary to cut the main circuit board101in the interaction region S10that avoids the battery chamber201aof the rear cover201, the substrate area can be increased, which enables expansion of the functions of the image pickup apparatus1.

As shown inFIG.10B, in the image pickup apparatus1, the main duct104is aslant arranged to the optical axis Oa. Then, the cooling fan102is arranged in a space part of which the cross section is approximately triangle formed by the product contour and the main duct104. Since the cooling fan102is arranged in the space part of which the cross section is approximately triangle, the cooling fan102can be arranged without enlarging the product contour in the width direction.

Moreover, since the cooling fan102is arranged in that position, the distance from the sensor substrate109and microphone unit700, which is located in the front face of the camera body2, to the cooling fan102across the main duct104can be long. Since this reduces influence of noise of the cooling fan102on the sensor substrate109and the microphone unit700, high imaging quality and high voice quality can be obtained.

As shown inFIG.10BandFIG.10C, the grip unit300provides recording medium slots302(media accommodation unit) that accommodate recording media that store photographed image data, captured video data, audio data, etc. in the image pickup apparatus1. The recording medium slots302are aslant arranged to the optical axis Oa. This enables to arrange the recording medium slots302into the grip unit300without enlarging the contour of the grip unit300.

Next, a heat insulation effect by the main duct104will be described.FIG.13Ais a back view showing the image pickup apparatus1.FIG.13Bis a sectional view taken along a line E-E inFIG.13A.FIG.13Bshows the positional relationship among the main circuit board101, the main duct104, the grip operating member301of the grip unit300, and a grip exterior member303. The heat generating element110is implemented in the main circuit board101.

If the heat generated by the heat generating element110implemented in the main circuit board101is conducted to the grip operating member301or the grip exterior member303, a user will feel uncomfortable when touching the grip operating member301or the grip exterior member303. In order to avoid this, in the image pickup apparatus1, the main duct104is arranged between the heat generating element110and the grip operating member301and grip exterior member303. That is, the conduction of the heat generated by the heat generating element110to the grip operating member301and the grip exterior member303is interrupted by the main duct104. In this way, since the temperature rise of the grip operating member301and the grip exterior member303can be reduced, a user does not feel uncomfortable.

FIG.14Ais an exploded perspective view describing attachment of an L cover304in the image pickup apparatus1.FIG.14Bis a left side view of the image pickup apparatus1.FIG.15A.FIG.15B, andFIG.15Care sectional views showing the image pickup apparatus1taken along a line F-F inFIG.14B.FIG.15Ais an entire sectional view,FIG.15Bis an enlarged view of an area S20inFIG.15A, andFIG.15Cis an enlarged view of an area S21inFIG.15A.

The grip unit300is provided with the L cover304. As shown inFIG.14B,FIG.15B, andFIG.15C, a first grip-belt through hole (belt fixing part)305and a second grip-belt through hole (belt fixing part)306are provided in the grip unit300.

These grip-belt through holes are formed by not only the L cover304but also a first main duct grip ring104hand a second main duct grip ring104ithat are formed as parts of the main duct104.

Since the main duct104is made from metal in consideration of thermal conductivity as mentioned above, its mechanical strength is large. Accordingly, since the strength of the first main duct grip ring104hand second main duct grip ring104iis also large, it is unnecessary to form the grip rings using other high-strength components. Accordingly, the number of components can be reduced, and the configuration equipped with the high-strength grip rings can be achieved without enlarging the image pickup apparatus1.

Next, the configuration of the ND unit1000will be described. The ND unit1000contains four optical filters (optical components)1001a,1001b,1001c, and1001dof which optical densities differ in this embodiment. Each of the optical filters1001athrough1001dis movable between an insertion position where a filter is inserted into a beam passing area1002and a retraction position where a filter is retracted from the beam passing area1002according to a user's operation. The user can adjust an amount of light entering into the image sensor2006by moving the desired optical filter(s) to the insertion position.

FIG.16is an exploded perspective view showing the ND unit1000. The ND unit1000is provided with a filter support unit1003that supports the optical filters1001athrough1001d, two filter drive units1004aand1004chaving drive mechanisms that move the optical filters1001athrough1001d. In order to slim down the ND unit1000, the four optical filters are divided into two sets each of which has two optical filters. The two sets are arranged at positions shifted in the Z direction. Two optical filters of each set are arranged in the same plane parallel to the XY plane. When one of the optical filters1001cand1001dis inserted into the beam passing area1002, the other optical filter is retracted from the beam passing area1002. Similarly, when one of the optical filters1001aand1001bis inserted into the beam passing area1002, the other optical filter is retracted from the beam passing area1002. As mentioned below, all the optical filters1001athrough1001dcan be held in the state where they are retracted from the beam passing area1002.

The filter drive units1004aand1004care arranged so as to face each other in the Z direction across the filter support unit1003. The filter drive unit1004adrives the optical filters1001aand1001b. The filter drive unit1004cdrives the optical filters1001cand1001d.

FIG.17A,FIG.17B, andFIG.17Care the views describing the insertion states and the retraction states of the optical filters1001aand1001b. The optical filters1001aand1001bare respectively held by filter holders1005aand1005bas holding members. The filter holder1005aengages with metal-made guide shafts (guide members)1001aand1006bextended in the Y direction. The filter holder1005bengages with guide shafts (guide members)006aand1006b.

The filter holder1005aprovides a rack meshed with a drive train1007a, which is constituted by a plurality of gears, in an engagement part to the guide shaft1006a. When a motor1008ais driven, driving force is transmitted to the filter holder1005athrough the drive train1007a, and the filter holder1005amoves in the Y direction while being guided by the guide shafts1006aand1006b. In this way, the insertion state (insertion position) and the retraction state (retraction position) of the optical filter1001awith respect to the beam passing area1002can be switched.

Similarly, the filter holder1005bprovides a rack meshed with a drive train1007b, which is constituted by a plurality of gears, in an engagement part to the guide shaft1006b. When a motor1008bis driven, driving force is transmitted to the filter holder1005bthrough the drive train1007b, and the filter holder1005bmoves in the Y direction while being guided by the guide shafts1006aand1006b. In this way, the insertion state and the retraction state of the optical filter1001bwith respect to the beam passing area1002can be switched.

In the state inFIG.17A, the optical filter1001ais in the insertion state and the optical filter1001bis in the retraction state. In the state inFIG.17B, both the optical filters1001aand1001bare in the retraction state. In the state inFIG.17C, the optical filter1001bis in the insertion state and the optical filter1001ais in the retraction state.

The ND unit1000is provided with a detector that detects whether each of the optical filters1001athrough1001dis in the insertion state or the retraction state with respect to the beam passing area1002. The detector employs a mechanical detector that detects movement of a detection lever rather than an optical detector like a photo coupler in consideration of optical influence on the incident beam through the lens3.

For example, as shown inFIG.17A, an insertion detection switch1009athat detects the insertion state of the optical filter1001ainto the beam passing area1002and a retraction detection switch10111athat detects the retraction state are arranged in the filter drive unit1004a. These switches are the mechanical detectors. The insertion detection switch1009aand the retraction detection switch1011aare arranged in the positions that face each other in the moving direction of the optical filter1001aacross the beam passing area1002. When the optical filter1001ais in the insertion state, the filter holder1005apresses an insertion detection lever1010a(FIG.17C) of the insertion detection switch1009a. When the optical filter1001ais in the retraction state, the filter holder1005apresses a retraction detection lever1012aof the retraction detection switch1011a.

Similarly, an insertion detection switch1009bthat detects the insertion state of the optical filter1001binto the beam passing area1002and a retraction detection switch1011bthat detects the retraction state are arranged in the filter drive unit1004a. The insertion detection switch1009band the retraction detection switch1011bare arranged in the positions that face each other in the moving direction of the optical filter1001bacross the beam passing area1002. When the optical filter1001bis in the insertion state, the filter holder1005bpresses an insertion detection lever1010b(FIG.17A) of the insertion detection switch1009b. When the optical filter1001bis in the retraction state, the filter holder1005bpresses a retraction detection lever1012b(FIG.17C) of the retraction detection switch1011b.

FIG.18is a front view describing arrangements of an engagement part1013bof the filter holder1005b, the drive train1007b, the insertion detection switch1009b, and the retraction detection switch1011b. The insertion detection lever1010band the retraction detection lever1012bare arranged so as to align on a straight line parallel to the moving direction of the optical filter1001b. Moreover, the engagement part1013bwhere the filter holder1005breceives the driving force from the drive train1007band the position where the filter holder1005breceives reaction force from the insertion detection lever1010bwhen the filter holder1005bpresses the insertion detection lever1010bare almost aligned on a straight line. That is, the engagement part1013b, and the insertion detection switch1009band the retraction detection switch1011bas the detectors that detect the position of the filter holder1005bare arranged in the positions that overlap when viewed in the moving direction of the optical filter1001b. This prevents inclination of the filter holder1005beven when the filter holder1005bpresses the insertion detection lever1010bor the retraction detection lever1012b. As a result, increase in dynamic resistance and occurrence of operation failure due to a wrench of the filter holder1005bto the guide shafts1006aand1006bthat may occur because the filter holder1005binclines can be reduced.

Since the drive mechanisms of the filter holders1005a,1005c, and1005dother than the filter holder1005bconform to the drive mechanism of the filter holder1005b, their descriptions are omitted. Moreover, the optical filters1001cand1001dcan be switched between the insertion state and the retraction state as with the optical filters1001aand1001b. Moreover, the detection method of the insertion state and retraction state of the optical filters1001cand1001dis the same as the detection method of the insertion state and the retraction state of the optical filters1001aand1001b. Accordingly, descriptions about operations and state detections of the optical filters1001cand1001dare omitted.

When the insertion states and retraction states with respect to the beam passing area1002are switched by moving the filter holders1005a,1005b,1005c, and1005drespectively holding the optical filters1001a,1001b,1001c, and1001d, there is a fear that static electricity occurred during the moving operations charges the optical filters1001athrough1001dand dust in air easily adheres. Here, the ND unit1000is provided with an electrically discharging structure for preventing electrification of the optical filters1001athrough1001d. The electrically discharging structure will be described as follows.

FIG.19AandFIG.19Bare exploded perspective views simplifying and showing the configuration of the ND unit1000. For example, the optical filter1001ais put and held between a metal filter cover (conductive member)1014aand the filter holder1005athat is made from conductive resin. The optical filters1001b,1001c, and1001dare also held between the metal filter covers1014b.1014c, and1014dand the filter holders1005b,1005c, and1005d.

FIG.20AandFIG.20Bare front views showing the ND unit1000.FIG.20Ashows the retraction state of the optical filters1001aand1001b.FIG.20Bshows the insertion state of the optical filter1001a.FIG.20Cis an enlarged view of the area S30inFIG.20A.

The filter cover1014ahas elastic parts1015aand1016a, and the filter cover1014bhas elastic parts1015band1016b. For example, when the optical filters1001aand1001bare in the retraction state as shown inFIG.20A, the elastic parts1016aand1016babut to an ND frame (frame body)1017that is made from conductive resin. The ND frame1017is a frame body of the filter support unit1003and is connected (grounded) to the camera body2. Moreover, when the optical filter1001ais in the insertion state as shown inFIG.20B, the elastic part1016bof the filter cover1014babuts to the ND frame1017, and the filter cover1014aabuts to the filter cover1014b. That is, even when the optical filter1001ais in the insertion state, the filter cover1014ais grounded to the ND frame1017through the filter cover1014b.

In this way, the filter holder1005ais electrically connected to the ND frame1017in both the insertion state and retraction state with respect to the beam passing area1002and is grounded to the camera body2so that the electricity will be removed. Accordingly, electrification of the optical filter1001aheld by the filter holder1005acan be prevented, and adhesion of dust to the optical filter1001acan be reduced. Since such a configuration is common to the optical filters1001bthrough1001d, their descriptions are omitted.

If the guide shafts1006aand1006bhave shakiness in an axial direction, the guide shafts1006aand1006bmay move with movements of the filter holders1005aand1005bin the axial direction. If the guide shafts1006aand1006bmoves in the axial direction, those shaft ends will collide with the ND frame1017that supports the guide shafts1006aand1006b, and collision sound (ambient noise) will occur.

In order to avoid occurrence of this, the filter support unit1003is configured to provide an elastic part1018in a part that supports the shaft ends of the guide shafts1006athrough1006din the ND frame1017as shown inFIG.20C. It should be noted thatFIG.20Cshows the guide shafts1006aand1006bbut omits showing the guide shafts1006cand1006d. When the guide shafts1006athrough1006dare attached to the ND frame1017, the elastic part1018deforms elastically and gives the guide shafts1006athrough1006dthe elastic force (energization force) in the axial direction, which can prevent the shakiness and can reduce occurrence of the ambient noise.

In the ND unit1000, the filter support unit1003and the filter drive unit1004aand1004care assembled so that the filter holders1005athrough1005dwill be respectively engaged with the drive trains1007a,1007b,1007c, and1007d. In that time, respective engagement points (1013ainFIGS.21and1013binFIG.18, for example) of the filter holders1005athrough1005dcome inside drive-train supporting plates1019aand1019c(FIG.16) that support the drive trains1007athrough1007d.

Accordingly, since the engagement points of the filter holders1005athrough1005dwith the drive trains1007athrough1007dare covered with the drive-train supporting plates1019aand1019c, the engagement points cannot be seen when no countermeasure is taken. Accordingly, in the filter drive unit1004a, for example, a check hole1020ais provided in the drive-train supporting plate1019aat a position that overlaps with the engagement part1013awhen viewed in the optical axis direction as enlarged and shown inFIG.21in this embodiment. As a result of this, a worker can visually check whether the drive engagement at the engagement point1013ais normal through the check hole1020a, an action defect due to the engagement defect at the engagement point1013a, and deformation or breakage of components due to improper assembly are prevented. Check holes corresponding to the drive trains1007bthrough1007dare provided in the drive-train supporting plates1019aand1019csimilarly.

Next, the configuration of the mount adapter2001will be described.FIG.22is an external perspective view showing the image pickup apparatus1in a state where a lens2003is attached through the mount adapter2001. A camera mount of the lens2003is not directly connectable with a lens interchangeable mount2002(hereinafter referred to as a “mount2002”) provided in the F unit2000. In this case, the mount adapter2001lequipped with a lens interchangeable mount that suits the camera mount of the lens2003is attached to the mount2002of the camera body2, and the lens2003is attached to the mount adapter2001. Thereby, the user of the camera body2can use the lens2003.

FIG.23is a perspective view showing a state where the mount adapter2001and the lens2003are detached from the camera body2. Fixing flanges2005are provided in the mount adapter2001, and screw stop parts (adapter fixing parts), which correspond to the fixing flanges2005, are provided around the mount2002of the camera body2at four places that are symmetrical in vertical and horizontal directions to the optical axis of the camera body2. The mount adapter2001is fixed to the mount2002by screwing fixing screws2004to the mount fixing parts through the fixing flanges2005. For example, the mount2002of the camera body2is configured to fix a lens with a bayonet system. In this case, since the mount adapter2001is configured to fix to the mount2002with the fixing screws2004but is not configured to be detachably attached with the bayonet system, the mount adapter2001is firmly fixed to the mount2002without causing shakiness.

FIG.24is a front view showing the camera body2. Also when the mount adapter2001is not attached, as shown inFIG.24, the fixing screws2004are screwed to the screw stop parts. Thereby, loss of the fixing screws2004can be prevented.

The image sensor2006is arranged nearly at the center of the mount2002when viewed from the front of the camera body2. A lens release button2007for detaching the lens2003from the camera body2is provided around the mount2002at a position that does not interfere with the screw stop parts to which the fixing screws2004are screwed and is opposite to the grip unit300across the mount2002.

FIG.25AandFIG.25Bare sectional views taken along a line G-G shown inFIG.24.FIG.25Ashows a state where neither the mount adapter2001nor the lens2003is attached to the mount2002.FIG.25Bshows a state where the mount adapter2001is attached. A line2043shown inFIG.25AandFIG.25Bshows a position of a mount assembly surface2041. The image sensor2006is arranged inside the camera body2, and the image sensor2006is implemented in the sensor substrate109. The sensor substrate109is fixed to a front base (holding base)2045. The mount2002is fixed to the front base2045. Moreover, the screw stop parts are provided in the front base2045and the fixing screws2004are screwed to the screw stop parts and are held.

In the state ofFIG.25Awhere the mount adapter2001is not attached to the mount2002, a head2042of a fixing screw2004is located at the side (−Z side) of the image sensor2006than the mount assembly surface2041. That is, the fixing screw2004is not projected from the mount assembly surface2041to the +Z side. In the meantime, in the state ofFIG.25Bwhere the mount adapter2001is attached to the mount2002, the head2042of the fixing screw2004is located at the side (+Z side) of the mount adapter2001than the mount assembly surface2041.

Thereby, when the mount adapter2001is not attached to the mount2002, the fixing screw2004can be stored in the position that does not disturb attachment and detachment of the lens2003.

Next, the recording medium will be described.FIG.26AandFIG.26Bare perspective views showing the image pickup apparatus1when viewed from the side of the grip unit300.FIG.26Ashows a state where the medium lid6closed.FIG.26Bshows a state where the medium lid6opened. The media lid6is provided in the object side (+Z side) of the grip unit300. When the medium lid6is opened, the two recording medium slots302(seeFIG.10B) provided inside appear. In a state where the media lid6is opened, the user can insert or extract a first recording medium3110aand second recording medium3110b, which store data captured by the image pickup apparatus1, with respect to the recording medium slots302.FIG.26Bshows a state where the first recording medium3110aand the second recording medium3110bare accommodated in the recording medium slots302.

Although the image pickup apparatus1can accommodate two recording media including the first recording medium3110aand the second recording medium3110b, it is enough to accommodate one or more recording media.

Since the two recording media3110aand3110bare attachable, data can be simultaneously recorded to both the recording media so as to use one recording medium as backup in a case where data in the other recording medium is damaged. In addition, this makes relay recording available for enabling long-time photographing. A translucent or transparent media window3120is provided in the medium lid6. Even when the medium lid6is closed, a user can check visually whether the recording media3110aand3110bare accommodated in the camera body2by viewing through the medium window3120.

Next, keys in the top unit3000will be described.FIG.27is a top view showing the image pickup apparatus1. Various operating members are arranged in the side of the grip unit300of the top unit3000, i.e., the upper surface (top surface) of the camera body2so that a user can operate them in a state holding the grip unit300. A REC button3210for instructing to start and stop recording captured image data, an iris dial3220for changing an aperture value of the lens3, etc. are arranged in the front area (+Z side) at the side of the grip unit300of the top unit3000. The power switch5, a media button3230, a slot selection button3240(selection unit), and access LEDs (medium display unit)3250aand3250bare arranged in the rear area (−Z side) at the side of the grip unit300of the top unit3000.

By operating the media button3230, the user achieves transition to the state of checking the picked-up image data. By operating the slot selection button3240, the user can select one of the first recording medium3110aand second recording medium3110bto which the picked-up image is recorded. In that time, the user can confirm which of the two recording media3110aand3110bis used to record the image data by checking the access LEDs3250aand3250b.

Since the image pickup apparatus1can accommodate the two recording media3110aand3110b, the two access LEDs3250aand3250bare arranged side by side from the optical axis side. The first access LED3250anear to the optical axis indicates the state of the first recording medium3110aaccommodated near the optical axis. The second access LED3250bfar from the optical axis indicates the state of the second recording medium3110bfar from the optical axis. That is, the arrangement relation of the recording media3110aand3110bmatches that of the access LEDs3250aand3250b. Thereby, even when the recording media and access LEDs are separately arranged, the user can distinguish intuitively which recording medium is indicated by an access LED.

It can be considered that the first recording medium3110aand the second recording medium3110bare arranged in this order from the front side of the camera body2(from the object side). Accordingly, although illustration is omitted, the first access LED3250amay be arranged in the front side of the camera body2and the second access LED3250bmay be arranged in the rear side of the camera body2. Also, in this case, the user can distinguish intuitively which recording medium is indicated by an access LED. Also, in this case, the user can distinguish intuitively which recording medium is indicated by an access LED.

For example, the following state confirmation method of a recording medium using an access LED can be considered. Lighting in red of an access LED indicates that the corresponding recording medium is under recording, and lighting in green of the access LED indicates that the corresponding recording medium is in a recordable state (standby state). Thereby, the user can immediately check which recording medium is recording by seeing the color of the access LED. It should be noted that the access LED may distinguish a state by lighting and blinking instead of a lighting color.

Generally, since the slot selection button and access LED are related to the recording media, they are arranged near the medium lid in many cases. Against this, since the medium lid6of the image pickup apparatus1is arranged at the object side of the grip unit300as a grip part for holding the image pickup apparatus1, the medium lid6is covered by a user's hand when the user holds the camera body2. Accordingly, the slot selection button3240and access LEDs3250aand3250bare arranged on the top unit3000at the side of the grip unit300and at the −Z side. Thereby, the user can check the states of the recording media3110aand3110band can select a slot in the state where the user holds the camera body2.

The media button3230and the slot selection button3240are arranged at the +X side of the first body exhaust port13. If the user tries to operate the media button3230or the slot selection button3240by an index finger while holding the camera body2, the index finger will cover the first body exhaust port13. Then, the exhaust wind warmed within the camera body2hits the user's index finger, which may give the user displeasure.

In order to avoid this, the image pickup apparatus1provides the first grip-belt through hole305just under the first body exhaust port13(the bottom side of the camera body2(−Y side)). Thereby, the movable range of the index finger is regulated with the grip belt4so that the media button3230and the slot selection button3240at the +X side of the first body exhaust port13cannot be operated by the index finger. Accordingly, since the user is naturally urged to use the thumb for operating the media button3230and the slot selection button3240, the user can operate them comfortably without exposing a finger to the exhaust wind.

The REC button3210and the iris dial3220are also arranged in the top unit3000as mentioned above. Since these operating members are used frequently at photographing, they are arranged at the front side (+Z side) than the first body exhaust port13and the first grip-belt through hole305in the image pickup apparatus1so that they can be operated by the index finger of the hand that holds the camera body2. Accordingly, when the user operates the REC button3210or the iris dial3220by the index finger of the hand that holds the camera body2, the motion of the index finger is not regulated by the grip belt4and the exhaust wind does not hit the index finger.

FIG.28is a side view showing the handle unit4000.FIG.29is an exploded perspective view showing the handle unit4000. The handle unit4000is one of accessories that can be detachably attached to the camera body2and is fixed to the camera body2so that a long side will be parallel to the Z direction and will be extended to the +Z side as a basic configuration. The handle unit4000roughly consists of a handle part4001and a holder component4002. The handle part4001is approximately formed in an L-shape that includes a short side part and long side part extended in two directions. When the handle unit4000is attached to the image pickup apparatus1, a user grips a grip part4001aof the long side part (part being approximately parallel to the Z-axis) of the handle part4001.

A long-side fastening part4010is formed at one end (tip end) of the handle part4001and a short-side fastening part4020is formed in the other end (base end). A through hole4001bis provided in the long-side fastening part4010, and a through hole4001cis provided in the short-side fastening part4020. Around the through holes4001band4001c, rosettes (chrysanthemum-shaped fixtures) are provided in both sides (±X sides) in the X-direction that is a fastening direction. Specifically, the rosette4001b-lis provided around the through hole4001bat the +X side, and the rosette4001b-2is provided around the through hole4001bat the −X side. Similarly, the rosette4001c-1is provided around the through hole4001cat the +X side, and the rosette4001c-2is provided around the through hole4001cat the −X side. It should be noted that a rosette is provided with depressions and projections (hereinafter referred to as a “radial gear”) formed in uniform phase in normal line directions of the center axis of the through hole. When a pair of rosettes are faced and their radial gears are abutted and engaged, the phases and centers of the rosettes are matched. The rosettes can be combined by changing the interphase for every gear phase pitch.

The holder component4002is fixed to the camera body2by abutting an attachment surface4002ato the camera body2and by screwing a handle bolt4003to a thread part (first fixing part) provided in the camera body2through a fixing hole (second fixing part)4002bprovided at the +Z side of the holder component4002. In the holder component4002, a through hole4002cis provided in the end (−Z side) other than the fixing hole4002bto the camera body2. Moreover, the fastening part (second fastening part) of the holder component4002is formed by providing a rosette4002c-1at the +X side around the through hole4002cand by providing a rosette4002c-2at the −X side around the through hole4002c.

The rosette4001c-1that is provided in the short-side fastening part4020of the handle part4001is abutted to the rosette4002c-2that is provided in the holder component4002so that the through hole4001cof the short-side fastening part4020will communicate with the through hole4002cof the holder component4002. Furthermore, a fastening bolt4004is inserted through both the through hole4001cof the short-side fastening part4020and the through hole4002cof the holder component4002and is engaged to a fastening nut4005. Thereby, the handle part4001is firmly fixed to the holder component4002without rotating easily because the rosettes are engaged.

FIG.30is a sectional view showing the handle part4001taken along a line H-H inFIG.28. The whole surface of the handle part4001becomes an appearance member in a product, and a fine view is required. In this embodiment, the handle part4001is manufactured by injection molding of resin material as one component. Accordingly, the thickness of the handle part4001should be uniform as possible in order to form the outside surface of the handle part4001smoothly. Accordingly, the handle part4001is configured to have an S-shaped section having depressions4001din both sides (+X side and −X side) in the X-direction. Thereby, the handle part4001secures high strength enough not to be broken when gripping the grip part4001awhile maintaining a fine view with uniform wall thickness. Moreover, since the depressions4001dare formed alternately from the both sides in the X-direction, each the depressions becomes small (narrow), which prevents insertion of a finger into the depressions4001dand improves the grip. It should be noted that such a cross section configuration of the handle part4001can be used for not only the L-shaped handle but also a handle of another shape made from resin material.

FIG.31is a perspective view showing one state where an accessory is attached to the handle unit4000. As mentioned above, the handle unit4000is basically attached to the camera body2at one position so that the long side part (the extended part of the grip part4001a) will be parallel to the Z-direction (optical axis direction) and the tip end will be directed to the +Z side. In this case, an accessory can be attached to the tip of the gripping member4001a. In this example, a display panel4006for checking a photographed image and inputting an operation is attached as an accessory.

A holder component4002A that holds the display panel4006has the same configuration as the holder component4002and is giving versatility to the holder component4002as components in this way. The display panel4006is fixed by screwing to a fixing hole of the holder component4002A (equivalent to the fixing hole4002bof the holder component4002, seeFIG.29). Then, the display panel4006is fixed to the handle part4001by abutting a rosette of the holder component4002A (equivalent to the rosette4001c-1of the holder component4002) to the rosette4002b-1of the long-side fastening part4010of the handle part4001, and by fastening with a bolt. In this state, since the display panel4006is in front of the camera body2, a user can easily photograph while watching the display panel4006when carrying the image pickup apparatus1on the shoulder.

FIG.32AandFIG.32Bare side views showing examples of attachment states of the display panel4006to the handle unit4000.FIG.32Ashows the attachment state that is changed from the state ofFIG.31only in an attachment angle of the display panel4006to the holder component4002A. In the attachment state ofFIG.32A, since a screen of the display panel4006is directed in a slant upper direction, the user can easily check the display when photographing in low angle.

FIG.32Bshows the attachment state that is changed from the state ofFIG.31in the attachment angle of the handle unit4000to the camera body2and the attachment angle of the display panel4006to the handle unit4000. In the attachment state ofFIG.32B, since the display panel4006is arranged in a position projected to the back side (−Z side), the screen of the display panel4006can be seen from the back of the image pickup apparatus1, and accordingly persons other than the user can easily check an image. Moreover, this attachment state is useful when the image pickup apparatus1is attached to a tripod and the user checks the display from a back side that is distant from the image pickup apparatus1.

FIG.33Ais a side view showing an annular handle4100assembled using two handle parts4001E and4001F.FIG.33Bis an exploded perspective view of the annular handle4100. The annular handle4100is constituted by rotating one of the handle parts4001E and4001F around the X-axis by 180 degrees and by combining and fastening to each other. It should be noted that the handle part4001E and4001F are identical to the handle part4001shown inFIG.28.

A rosette4001c-1of the handle part4001E is engaged to a rosette4001b-2of the handle part4001F, and a rosette4001b-2of the handle part4001E is engaged to a rosette4001c-1of the handle part4001F. Then, the fastening bolts4004inserted into the through holes of the respective engagement parts are screwed to the fastening nuts4005in the X-direction. Thereby, the annular handle4100is obtained. A fixing hole4001gthat is a fixing part to the camera body2is provided in the center position of the long side part of each of the handle parts4001E and4001F. Accordingly, the annular handle4100is fixed to the camera body2by screwing the handle bolt4003to the camera bod2through the fixing hole4001g.

The annular handle4100improves the strength in the holding-up direction as compared with the case where the handle part4001is used independently. Accordingly, when the image pickup apparatus1is compact and lightweight, the handle unit4000is used independently. When the image pickup apparatus1of which the weight becomes heavy because of combination with a large lens is used, the annular handle4100is used. Such a separation gives high convenience.

FIG.34Ais a plan view showing the handle part4001E that forms the annular handle viewed in a direction of an arrow V1shown inFIG.33Afrom a position shown by the arrow V1.FIG.34Bis a plan view showing the annular handle4100viewed in a direction of an arrow V2shown inFIG.33Afrom a position shown by the arrow V2.

As shown inFIG.34A, a center (a position that divides the width into two equally) of the thickness of the grip part4001aof the handle part4001E indicated by an arrow T in the X-direction is defined as a center position4007shown by an alternate long and short dash line. The fixing holes4001gare provided on the center position4007. Then, the rosette4001c-1facing to the +X side around the through hole4001b(the short-side fastening part4020) of the handle part4001E is located on the center position4007. Moreover, the rosette4001b-1facing to the −X side around the through hole4001b(the long-side fastening part4010) of the handle part4001E is located on the center position4007.

Such a configuration of the handle part4001E is identical to that of the handle part4001F. The center positions4007of the handle parts4001E and4001F are coincident when the annular handle4100is formed by combining the handle parts4001E and4001F of which the rosettes at both the ends are located on the center position4007and face to the opposite sides in the width direction. Thereby, the fixing hole4001gof the handle part4001E of the lower side (the side of the camera body2) is coincident with the thickness center of the grip part4001aof the handle part4001F in the X-direction. Since the grip part4001aof the handle part4001F does not shift from the attachment part to the camera body2when the annular handle4100is attached to the camera body2, the handle part4001F can be held with sufficient balance.

FIG.35is a view showing one state where the display panel4006is attached to the annular handle4100.FIG.36Ais a sectional view showing the annular handle4100taken along a line K-K shown inFIG.35. The display panel4006is fixed to the long-side fastening part4010of the handle part4001F, which is one of the connection parts of the handle parts4001E and4001F of the annular handle4100, through the holder component4002. The rosette4002c-2of the holder component4002to which the display panel4006is fixed is engaged to the rosette4001b-1at the +X side of the handle part4001F, and they are fastened by the fastening bolt4004and the fastening nut4005in the X-direction. Thereby, the short-side fastening part4020of the handle part4001E, the long-side fastening part4010of the handle part4001F, and the holder component4002are fastened in the X-direction in this order from the −X side and are fixed firmly.

In this state, since the display panel4006is in front of the camera body2as with the state shown inFIG.31, the user can easily photograph while watching the display panel4006when carrying the image pickup apparatus1on the shoulder. It should be noted that the display panel4006can be fixed to the rosette4001c-2at the −X side of the short-side fastening part4020of the handle part4001E of the annular handle4100through the holder component4002.

FIG.36Bis a sectional view showing the handle part4001taken along a line J-J inFIG.33A. The fastening state by the fastening bolt4004and the fastening nut4005will be described hereinafter by comparingFIG.36AandFIG.36B. The fastening bolt4004is constituted by a grip part4004aand an external screw part4004b. The grip part4004ais a grip for tightening and loosening the fastening bolt4004that is screwed to the fastening nut4005. The external screw part4004bis cylindrical and is integrally assembled with the grip part4004a. The fastening nut4005is constituted by a grip part4005aand an internal screw part4005b. The grip part4005ais a grip for tightening and loosening the fastening nut4005that is screwed to the fastening bolt4004and has a hollow part. The internal screw part4005bhas an internal screw in a center hole and is integrally assembled with the grip part4005a.

InFIG.36A, the three members including the handle part4001E, the handle part4001F, and the holder component4002are put between the fastening bolt4004and the fastening nut4005. The external screw part4004bof the fastening bolt4004is screwed with the fastening nut4005in a range of a length W1in this state. In the meantime, inFIG.36B, the two members including the handle part4001E and the handle part4001F are put between the fastening bolt4004and the fastening nut4005. The external screw part4004bof the fastening bolt4004is screwed with the fastening nut4005in a range of a length W1+W2in this state. It should be noted that the two members including the handle part4001and the holder component4002may be put between the fastening bolt4004and the fastening nut4005as shown inFIG.31.

In this way, the fastening bolt4004may fix three members or two members when an accessory like the display panel4006is attached. Accordingly, the external screw part4004bof the fastening bolt4004needs a predetermined length so as to screw to the internal screw part4005bof the fastening nut4005even when the three members are put therebetween. In the meantime, the length of the external screw part4004bof the fastening bolt4004is determined so that a tip of the external screw part4004bthat is screwed with the internal screw part4005band enters into the hollow part is not projected from the grip part4005a. This is because the external screw part4004bof the fastening bolt4004is made from metal and the projection of the tip of the external screw part4004bfrom the fastening nut4005is not preferable.

Accordingly, the length of the external screw part4004bof the fastening bolt4004is determined so as to be sufficient when three members are inserted so as not to be projected from the grip part4005aof the fastening nut4005when two members are inserted. Specifically, the length of the fastening nut in the axial direction is ‘W4’ and the length of the portion of the holder component4002put between the fastening bolt4004and the fastening nut4005is ‘W2’. Moreover, when the fastening bolt4004is screwed to the fastening nut4005by a length W1as shown inFIG.36A, firm fastening is obtained.

In this case, when the two members including the handle parts4001E and4001F excluding the holder component4002are fastened as shown inFIG.36B, the external screw part4004bof the fastening bolt4004proceeds to the side of the fastening nut4005by the length W2. Accordingly, when the relation of ‘W1+W2<W4’ is satisfied, a user does not touch the external screw part4004bof the fastening bolt4004even when the two members are inserted, which enables safe use.

Other Embodiments

This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-094420, filed May 29, 2020, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.