Imaging device

An imaging device includes a communication part that transmits an image data to an external display device, an outer barrel, an imaging element, and first and second coupling parts that are configured to be coupled to an installation device which is attachable to and detachable from the display device. The first and second coupling parts are disposed at a rear surface part of the outer barrel, and a storage part that stores a battery is provided between the first coupling part and the second coupling part in the rear surface part of the outer barrel.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of Japanese Priority Patent Application JP 2013-169727 filed Aug. 19, 2013, Japanese Priority Patent Application JP 2013-173891 filed Aug. 23, 2013, Japanese Priority Patent Application JP 2013-192269 filed Sep. 17, 2013, and Japanese Priority Patent Application JP 2014-011231 filed Jan. 24, 2014, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

The present technology relates to an imaging device which can perform an imaging operation in cooperation with a display device.

There is an apparatus in which one device of devices having different functions is attachable to and detachable from the other device. As such an apparatus in which one device is attachable to and detachable from the other device, for example, there is an apparatus including an interchangeable lens having a zoom function and a camera device main body having an imaging function.

In addition, there is an apparatus in which one device of devices having different functions is attachable to and detachable from the other device via an adaptor, and, as an example thereof, there is an apparatus in which an interchangeable lens is attachable to and detachable from a camera device main body via an adaptor (for example, refer to Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2013-92556).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2013-92556 discloses a method in which the entire adaptor is rotated about the camera device main body, and an engagement part is engaged with an engagement part of the camera device main body, as a method of attaching the adaptor to the camera device main body.

Meanwhile, in recent years, along with advance of communication technique such as a wireless local area network (LAN), for example, a technique has been developed in which an image data acquired by an imaging device is displayed on a display portion (a display) of a display device.

In such a case where communication is performed between the display device and the imaging device by using the wireless communication technique, it is not necessary to provide a structure for electrical connection between the adaptor and the imaging device, and thus an attachment mechanism (attachment and detachment mechanism) of the adaptor to the display device may be a simple mechanism.

SUMMARY

Meanwhile, it is necessary for the imaging device which can perform an imaging operation in cooperation with the display device to have a device configuration suitable for a cooperative action or attachment and detachment.

Therefore, it is desirable to provide a device configuration suitable for a cooperative action or attachment and detachment.

According to an embodiment of the present technology, there is provided an imaging device including a communication part that transmits an image data to an external display device; an outer barrel; an imaging element; and first and second coupling parts that are configured to be coupled to an installation device which is attachable to and detachable from the display device, in which the first and second coupling parts are disposed at a rear surface part of the outer barrel, and in which a storage part that stores a battery is provided between the first coupling part and the second coupling part in the rear surface part of the outer barrel. A device which performs an imaging operation and/or a display operation in cooperation with an external display device is implemented using the imaging device having the communication part, the outer barrel, and the imaging element. In this case, the battery storage part is provided by effectively using the rear surface part in which the first and second coupling parts are provided, that is, the space of the installation surface side with the installation device. Particularly, since the storage part is provided between the first and second coupling parts, the storage part can be provided in a state in which installation of an installation device is not impeded.

In addition, preferably, the storage part allows a battery to be stored from a direction which is substantially perpendicular to an imaging optical axis. If a battery is stored in a vertical posture, this does not influence the shape of the outer barrel, and thus a degree of freedom of design of the imaging device increases.

Preferably, the storage part is provided with a battery lid that closes the storage part storing a battery. The battery lid is provided, and thus the rear surface part looks good. In addition, it is possible to prevent a battery from falling.

Preferably, the storage part is provided with a battery lid that closes the storage part storing a battery, and the battery lid is slid downward. It is possible to easily open the battery lid due to the downward sliding. In addition, due to the downward sliding, the shape of the battery lid is not exposed to the upper side of the outer barrel, and thus the external appearance looks good.

Preferably, the first and second coupling parts are set to fixed positions so as not to be slid in the rear surface part. The first and second coupling parts have a structure of not being slid even if the battery lid is slid. Accordingly, the sliding of the battery lid does not impede the function of the coupling parts.

In addition, preferably, the storage part is provided with a battery lid that closes the storage part storing a battery, and the battery lid is slid to avoid the first and second coupling parts. The battery lid has a structure of being slid to avoid the first and second coupling parts, and thus the sliding of the battery lid does not impede the function of the coupling parts.

Preferably, the first and second coupling parts are set to fixed positions so as not to be slid in the rear surface part.

In addition, preferably, the storage part is provided with a battery lid that closes the storage part storing a battery, the battery lid includes a connection member to the rear surface part of the outer barrel, the connection member connects an upper side of the battery lid to the rear surface part, and the battery lid can be opened upward with the connection member as a fulcrum. The battery lid is prevented from falling off by the connection member.

Preferably, the storage part has a connection terminal to a battery, which is provided at an upper side in a battery storage space.

Preferably, the storage part is formed so that a battery is horizontally symmetrically stored.

In addition, preferably, the first and second coupling parts protrude backward from the rear surface part of the outer barrel. Accordingly, a shape for engagement is realized.

Preferably, the first and second coupling parts are disposed at an outer circumference of the rear surface part of the outer barrel. The first and second coupling parts are disposed at the outer circumference, and thus a battery storage space is not impeded.

Preferably, the first and second coupling parts include locking protrusions that protrude outward separately from each other in a circumferential direction. A state of being engaged with an installation device is formed by the locking protrusions.

Preferably, a lock pin that maintains a coupling state is formed around the first and second coupling parts. A movement in an unlocked direction and a rotatable movement are restricted by the lock pin, and thus a coupling state is maintained.

In addition, preferably, an imaging device main body and the installation device are relatively rotated via the first and second coupling parts so as to couple the imaging device main body and the installation device to each other. Accordingly, coupling between the imaging device and the installation device can be easily performed.

Further, preferably, the imaging device includes an image taking button, a power button, and a zoom switch; a circumferential surface part is provided at the outer barrel; the image taking button is disposed at a left side of the circumferential surface part; the power button is disposed at an upper side of the circumferential surface part; and the zoom switch is disposed at the circumferential surface part. By using the imaging device including the communication part, the outer barrel, the imaging element, the image taking button, the power button, and the zoom switch, it is possible to implement a device suitable for performing an imaging operation and/or a display operation in cooperation with an external display device.

Furthermore, preferably, the imaging device includes an image taking button, a power button, a zoom switch, and a rolling prevention part that prevents a device casing from rolling in a placed state; a circumferential surface part which at least partially has a curved surface is provided at the outer barrel; the image taking button is disposed at the circumferential surface part; the power button is disposed at the circumferential surface part; the zoom switch is disposed at the circumferential surface part; and the rolling prevention part is disposed at a lower side of the circumferential surface part. The shape of the circumferential surface part having the curved surface is effective to rolling prevention.

In addition, preferably, the imaging device includes an image taking button, and a power button; a circumferential surface part is provided at the outer barrel; and the image taking button and the power button are disposed at different positions in a circumferential direction on the circumferential surface part. By using the imaging device including the communication part, the outer barrel, the imaging element, the image taking button, and the power button, it is possible to implement a device suitable for performing an imaging operation and/or a display operation in cooperation with an external display device.

Preferably, the imaging device further includes a power button, and the power button is disposed so as not to further protrude than a surface forming the circumferential surface part of the outer barrel. The power button does not protrude, which is thus suitable for preventing the power button from being erroneously operated.

Preferably, the imaging device further includes a microphone that inputs an external sound and is disposed at the circumferential surface part of the outer barrel. In such a device in which the outer barrel as a lens casing is a main body, the circumferential surface part of the outer barrel is most unlikely to block external sounds, and thus the microphones are disposed at the circumferential surface part, which is thus suitable for collecting external sounds.

Preferably, a tripod hole is disposed at a lower end of the circumferential surface part of the outer barrel. In a case where the outer barrel has a formation that outlines the main body of the imaging device, a tripod hole is formed at the lower end of the circumferential surface part, and thus balance can be kept well during attachment of a tripod.

Preferably, the imaging device further includes a near field communication part that is disposed at positions other than a rear surface side of the outer barrel. This is because, if the NEC part which performs near field communication is disposed at the rear surface side, when the imaging device is attached to the display device, polling may occur at all times.

Preferably, the imaging device further includes a near field communication part that is disposed at an upper side of the circumferential surface part of the outer barrel. Accordingly, if an external device becomes naturally close to the imaging device in a state of being placed on a desk or the like, wireless communication can be performed.

According to the present technology, it is possible to realize a device configuration suitable for a cooperative action, an operation, or attachment and detachment in relation to an imaging device which can perform an imaging operation in cooperation with an external display device.

In addition, the effects described in the present specification are only an example and are not limited, and other effects may be achieved.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Here, embodiments of the present technology will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

In the following description, directions viewed from a photographer in an image taking operation using an imaging device are set to a front and rear direction, a vertical direction, and a horizontal direction. Therefore, a subject side is a front side, and the photographer side is a rear side.

In addition, the front and rear direction, the vertical direction, and the horizontal direction described below are for convenience of description, and carrying out the present technology is not limited to these directions.

Schematic Configuration of Imaging Unit

An imaging unit1includes an imaging device2and an adaptor3(an installation portion or an installation device) (refer toFIGS. 1 to 3). The adaptor3is attachable to and detachable from a rear surface of the imaging device2. However, the imaging unit1may have an integrated configuration in which the adaptor3is integrally formed with the imaging device2at a rear end of the imaging device. The imaging device2has a communication function of transmitting and receiving an image data or the like to and from a display device4.

The adaptor3is attachable to and detachable from the display device4. The display device4is, for example, a mobile phone. However, the display device4is not limited to a mobile phone, and may be other devices having a display function, for example, a portable terminal, a television system, and the like.

In addition, hereinafter, a description will be made of a case where the imaging device2is configured separately from the adaptor3, and the adaptor3coupled to the imaging device2is attachable to and detachable from the display device4which is a mobile phone.

Schematic Configuration of Display Device

The display device4includes respective necessary parts disposed inside and outside an outer casing5. The outer casing5is formed, for example, in a substantially rectangular case shape, and a display panel6is provided on one surface (rear surface). The display panel6is a touch panel, and a predetermined function is executed by performing a contact operation on each predetermined position of the display panel6.

The display device4has a communication function of transmitting and receiving an image data or the like to and from the imaging device2.

Configuration of Imaging Device

The imaging device2includes an outer barrel7, a plurality of lens groups disposed inside the outer barrel7, and an imaging element (not illustrated) located on the rear side of the lens groups (refer toFIGS. 1 to 10). In the imaging device2, light incorporated via the lens groups is subject to photoelectric conversion in the imaging element. Therefore, the imaging device2can capture an image data or a video data.

The outer barrel7includes a circumferential surface part7awhich is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape extending from the front side to the rear side, an overhang part7bwhich overhangs inward from a front end of the circumferential surface part7a, and a rear surface part7cwhich closes the circumferential surface part7afrom the rear side.

Inner barrels8and8which can be moved in the front and rear direction are supported inside the outer barrel7(refer toFIGS. 3 to 5). Therefore, the imaging device2is turned to an image taking state (refer toFIG. 4) when the inner barrels8and8protrude forward with respect to the outer barrel7, and is turned to a collapsed state (refer toFIG. 2) when the inner barrels8and8which have protruded forward are withdrawn backward and are stored in the outer barrel7.

A light passing hole8awith a substantially rectangular shape is formed in a front surface part of the inner barrel8which is located on the innermost side (refer toFIG. 4). Lens barriers9and9are supported on a rear surface side of the front surface part of the inner barrel8which is located on the innermost side, so as to be freely opened and closed. The lens barriers9and9are closed in a collapsed state and are opened in an image taking state by an opening and closing mechanism (not illustrated). Therefore, in the collapsed state, the light passing hole8aof the inner barrel8is closed by the lens barriers9and9(refer toFIG. 2), and, in the image taking state, the light passing hole8ais opened by the lens barriers9and9(refer toFIG. 4).

A plurality of lens groups including an image taking lens10(refer toFIG. 4) located on the frontmost side are disposed separately from each other in the optical axis direction inside the imaging device2, and if the light passing hole8ais opened by the lens barriers9and9, light is incident to the image taking lens10from outside.

An operation ring11is rotatably supported at the front end of the outer barrel7(refer toFIG. 2). When the operation ring11is operated, the lens groups which perform manual focusing or zooming are moved in the optical axis direction.

The operation ring11is provided in a circular shape at the front end of the outer barrel7, and thus a user easily performs a rotation operation of the operation ring11. If the surface of the operation ring11is formed by a sawtooth-shaped grip part, this is also suitable for operability improvement of a rotation operation.

In addition, the operation ring11can change operation content between a manual focusing operation and a zooming operation on the basis of control using wireless communication described later in response to a user's operation from the display device4. Therefore, the operation ring11may be used as an operation part of a focusing operation and a zooming operation in accordance with a user's taste or circumstances.

First and second coupling parts12and12which protrude backward are provided at positions opposite to each other, 180° apart on an outer circumference of the rear surface part7cof the outer barrel7(refer toFIGS. 3and6). Locking protrusions12aand12awhich protrude outward separately in a circumferential direction are respectively provided at the coupling parts12and12. Accordingly, an engagement structure body is formed which is engaged with coupling recess parts18aand18aand locking pieces17aand17aof the adaptor3, described later.

A lock pin13is supported movably in the front and rear direction around the coupling part12of the rear surface part7c, and the lock pin13is biased backward by a spring (not illustrated).

An unlock lever2ais disposed at the rear end of the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7(refer toFIG. 10). The unlock lever2ais operated, and thus the lock pin13is drawn into the outer barrel7.

A battery lid2bis disposed at a portion between the coupling parts12and12of the rear surface part7cof the outer barrel7(refer toFIGS. 3 and 6). A battery mounting part70(refer toFIGS. 41 and 42) is formed inside the battery lid2bin the imaging device2. The battery lid2bis opened and closed, and thus a battery (not illustrated) can be installed in and removed from the storage part.

Here, first and second coupling parts12and12are formed on the outer circumference in the rear surface part7c, and thus a space between the first and second coupling parts12and12can be used to dispose the battery lid2band the battery mounting part70therein. In other words, coupling parts12and12is formed on the outer circumference in the rear surface part7c, and thus do not impede securing of a battery storage space.

Microphones2cand2cand a power button2dare disposed separately from each other in the front and rear direction at the upper end of the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7(refer toFIGS. 2,3and7). The microphones2cand2care parts for inputting external sounds. In the embodiment in which the outer barrel7as a lens casing is a main body, the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7is most unlikely to block external sounds among positions where the microphones are easily disposed. For this reason, the microphones2cand2care disposed at the circumferential surface part7a, which is thus suitable for collecting external sounds. Since the microphones2cand2care provided at the upper end of the circumferential surface part7a, the microphones2cand2care hardly blocked when a user grasps the outer barrel7, and thus are suitable to input external sounds.

In addition, the illustrated microphones2cand2cparts are visually recognized as microphone holes from the outside. The microphones2cand2care disposed inside the circumferential surface part7a, but at least the microphone holes (2cand2c) which guide external sounds to the two microphones to which the external sounds are input are formed at positions which are horizontally symmetrical to each other on the circumferential surface part7a. The horizontally symmetrical positions are suitable for collecting right and left stereo sounds.

The power button2dis disposed so that a surface thereof does not further protrude than the surface forming the circumferential surface part7a. For example, as illustrated in the figures, the power button is formed so as to be coplanar with the circumferential surface part7a. Alternatively, the surface of the power button2dmay be further depressed than the circumferential surface part7a.

The power button2ddoes not further protrude than the circumferential surface part7a, which is thus suitable for preventing the power button2dfrom being erroneously operated.

If the power button2dis operated, power is supplied or stops being supplied in the imaging device2. When power is supplied, the inner barrels8and8protrude forward with respect to the outer barrel7, thereby setting an image taking state, and when power stops being supplied, the inner barrels8and8which have protruded forward are withdrawn backward and are stored in the outer barrel7, thereby setting a collapsed state.

A tripod hole2eis formed at the lower end of the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7(refer toFIG. 8). The tripod hole2eis a hole for coupling the imaging device2to a tripod (not illustrated) when an image taking operation is performed. In a case where the outer barrel7has a formation that outlines the main body of the imaging device2as in the present embodiment, a tripod hole2eis formed at the lower end of the circumferential surface part7a, and thus balance can be kept well during attachment of a tripod.

Rolling prevention protrusions2fand2fare provided on right and left sides of the tripod hole2eat the lower end of the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7(refer toFIGS. 3 and 8). The rolling prevention protrusions2fand2fprotrude slightly downward. The imaging device2is prevented from rolling by the rolling prevention protrusions2fand2fwhen the imaging device2is placed on a desk or a table, and thus it is possible to prevent damage or a failure by the imaging device2falling off desk or table or the like.

In a case where the whole or at least a part of the circumferential surface part7ais curved, and the circumferential surface part7aforms an outer casing, a rolling prevention protrusion2fis useful.

A zoom switch2gand a shutter button (image taking button)2hare arranged in the front and rear direction at the lower end of the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7(refer toFIGS. 3 and 9). If the zoom switch2gis operated, zooming is performed between telephoto and a wide angle. If the shutter button2his operated, a subject is photographed. The zoom switch2gand the shutter button2hare disposed so as to be close to each other, and thus it is easy for a user to perform a series of image taking operations in which an angle of view is adjusted through zooming and then a shutter operation is performed. In addition, the zoom switch2gand the shutter button2hare not only arranged in the front and rear direction, but may also be disposed at a state of being arranged in the vertical direction or a tilt direction.

The shutter button2hand the zoom switch2gare disposed at the same member2k. This member2kforms a portion of the circumferential surface part7aalong with the outer barrel7. The zoom switch2gand the shutter button2hwhich are disposed so as to be close to each other are attached to the member2k, and the member2kis attached to the outer barrel7, thereby efficiently assembling the imaging device in terms of manufacturing.

In addition, the shutter button2hmay be, for example, an operation part for automatic focusing in a half depressing operation, and for image taking a subject in a full depressing operation. For example, assuming that the imaging device2is used singly, there is no display portion (that is, the display device4), and thus a focusing operation is difficult. If automatic focusing is performed by half depressing of the shutter button2h, it is possible to provide an operation which is intuitively easily understandable to a user. In addition, if a sound output part is provided so as to output an electronic sound during the automatic focusing operation, this is suitable for a user to recognize the operation.

Further, the zoom switch2gis configured in a zoom lever form as illustrated in the figures. A zooming operation is performed by operating the lever, and thus operability is improved. Furthermore, the zoom switch2gmay be in a press button form using a wide angle button/telephoto button. Moreover, two zoom switches in a button form and a lever form may be provided.

Since the zoom switch2gand the shutter button2hare disposed at the left end of the circumferential surface part7a, an operating finger is naturally disposed around the zoom switch2gand the shutter button2hwhen the imaging device2is grasped from the lower side during an image taking operation, and thus it is possible to improve the convenience for a user in using the imaging device2through the improvement of operability.

In addition, the zoom switch2gand the shutter button2hare disposed at the left end of the circumferential surface part7a, and are thus located so as to be separated from the microphones2cand2cprovided at the upper end of the circumferential surface part7a. Accordingly, sounds emitted when a user operates the shutter button2hor the zoom switch2gare not picked up as much as possible by the microphones2cand2c.

In relation to the zooming operation, the zoom switch2gand the above-described operation ring11are prepared. Accordingly, a user can select a zooming operation method in accordance with circumstances or a preference, and thus the operability is improved.

In addition, since the shutter button2hand the power button2dare disposed separately from each other at the upper side and the lateral side as different positions in the circumferential direction on the circumferential surface part7a, it becomes easier to prevent operation errors in a power operation and an image taking operation. Further, the shutter button2hand the power button2dmay be separated by being disposed at the right and left sides of the circumferential surface part7a, but if it is considered to be appropriate that the power button2dis disposed at the upper side of the circumferential surface part7aas described above, the shutter button2his appropriately disposed the lateral side (the right or left side) of the circumferential surface part.

A cover body2iis disposed at the rear side of the shutter button2hat the left end of the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7. In the imaging device2, an external connection terminal such as a universal serial bus (USB) and a memory slot card (not illustrated) are provided inside the cover body2i. Therefore, the cover body2iis opened, and thus connection to an external device and installation of a memory card can be performed. In addition, through the connection to an external device or the installation of a memory card, an image data or a video data captured by the imaging device2can be recorded in the external device or the memory card.

A display part2jformed by a liquid crystal panel or the like is disposed at the right end of the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7(refer toFIG. 10). The display part2jdisplays a residual quantity of a battery or whether or not a memory card is inserted into the memory card slot. The display part2jis not used to display a captured image data.

Since the display part2jis disposed, it is possible to check a residual quantity of a battery or whether or not a memory card is inserted into the memory card slot, from the outside of the imaging device2, and to thus improve the convenience for a user in using the imaging device2.

The imaging device2has a wireless communication function. By using the wireless communication, for example, it is possible to perform various operations such as displaying or preserving an image data or a video data captured by the imaging device2on the display device4, executing an image taking function of the imaging device2by operating the display device4, and executing the zooming function of the imaging device2by operating the display device4.

For example, specifically, an NFC part (NFC tag) which performs near field communication (NFC) is mounted in the inside close to the upper end of the circumferential surface part7ain the outer barrel7, and performs noncontact communication with an NFC part mounted in the display device4. In addition, for example, wireless fidelity (WIFI) communication part is provided so as to transmit a captured image data, and performs wireless communication with a WIFI communication part mounted in the display device4.

The imaging device2may not only be powered on by operating the power button2das described above, but also be powered on through the near field communication on the display device4side. For example, if the near field communication is established, the imaging device2is powered on. In addition, if the near field communication function is displayed around the power button2dsuch as, for example, the upper end of the circumferential surface part7a, a user can easily understand a power-on operation.

In addition, since the NFC part is disposed at the upper side in the outer barrel7, in a case where the imaging device2is used by installing a tripod in the above-described tripod hole2e, the NFC part becomes as close to the display device4as possible easily, which is thus advantageous in noncontact communication.

Further, as described later inFIG. 37, if a state of the imaging unit being put on a placing surface50is considered, a user typically makes the display device4close to the imaging device2from the upper side. Therefore, the NFC part is disposed at the upper side in the outer barrel7, which also is an arrangement suitable for near field communication in such a usage.

In addition, as a position where the NFC part is disposed at the imaging device2, examples other than the upper side in the outer barrel7may be considered, but, preferably, the NFC part is not disposed at least at a position close to the rear surface side of the outer barrel7, that is, a position close to the rear surface part7cside. This is because, if the NFC part which performs near field communication is disposed at the rear surface side, when the imaging device2is attached to the display device4via the adaptor3, as inFIGS. 32,33and37, the NFC part may be in a state of being close to the NFC part of the display device4side at all times, and thus polling may occur at all times. For this reason, the NFC part is preferably disposed at positions other than the rear surface side of the outer barrel7.

In the imaging device2, for example, operation rings70and70may be additionally provided to the above-described configuration (refer toFIG. 11). The operation rings70and70are rotatably supported so as to be arranged in the front and rear direction in the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7. By performing a rotation operation of the operation rings70and70, it is possible to perform changing of various modes in an image taking operation or reproduction, such as, for example, an automatic image taking mode, a panoraman image taking mode, a consecutive shot mode, a close-up mode, nighttime image taking mode, a background blurring mode, a self timer mode, a blur correction mode, a slide show mode, a still image taking mode, and a moving image taking mode.

As mentioned above, the operation rings70and70are used, and thus various modes can be changed, thereby further improving the convenience for a user in using the imaging device2.

In addition, any number of operation rings70may be used, and if a plurality of operation rings70,70, . . . are provided, modes which can be set by combinations of respective operation positions of the operation rings70,70, . . . can be increased, and thus it is possible to improve functionality of the imaging device2.

Further, operation buttons71, for performing changing of the various modes may be provided instead of the operation rings70and70(refer toFIG. 12). The operation buttons71, are provided, and thus it is also possible to further improve the convenience for a user in using the imaging device2in the same manner as providing the operation rings70and70.

Configuration of Another Imaging Device

Although the imaging device2has been described above, the following imaging device2A may be used as a configuration of the imaging unit1instead of the imaging device2(refer toFIGS. 13 to 19).

In addition, the imaging device2A is the same as the imaging device2except that the imaging device2A is shorter than the imaging device2and partially has a shape or a function from the imaging device2. Therefore, a detailed description will be made of only portions different from the imaging device2, and the other portions are given the same reference numerals as the reference numerals given to the same portions in the imaging device2, and the description thereof will be made briefly or omitted.

The imaging device2and the imaging device2A have, for example, different zoom magnification, and different image qualities of captured images.

The imaging device2A includes an outer barrel7A, a plurality of lens groups disposed inside the outer barrel7A, and an imaging element (not illustrated) located on the rear side of the lens groups. In the imaging device2A, light incorporated via the lens groups is subject to photoelectric conversion in the imaging element. Therefore, the imaging device2A can capture an image data or a video data.

The outer barrel7A includes a circumferential surface part7awhich is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape extending from the front side to the rear side, an overhang part7bwhich overhangs inward from a front end of the circumferential surface part7a, and a rear surface part7cwhich closes the circumferential surface part7afrom the rear side. The outer barrel7A is shorter than the outer barrel7in the front and rear direction.

Inner barrels8and8which are extendable in the front and rear direction are supported inside the outer barrel7A (refer toFIGS. 13 and 14).

An operation ring is not supported in the outer barrel7A. In addition, in the imaging device2A, an operation ring may not be provided in the same manner as the imaging device2.

Coupling parts12and12which protrude backward are provided at positions opposite to each other, 180° apart on an outer circumference of the rear surface part7cof the outer barrel7A (refer toFIG. 15). A lock pin13is supported movably in the front and rear direction around the coupling part12of the rear surface part7c.

An unlock lever2ais disposed at the rear end of the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7A (refer toFIG. 19). The unlock lever2ais operated, and thus the lock pin13is drawn into the outer barrel7A.

A battery lid2bis disposed at a portion between the coupling parts12and12of the rear surface part7cof the outer barrel7A (refer toFIG. 15). An external connection terminal and a memory card slot are provided inside the battery lid2bin the imaging device2A. In addition, in the imaging device2A, in the same manner as the imaging device2, a cover body may be provided on the rear side of the shutter button2h, and an external connection terminal and a memory card slot may be provided inside the cover body.

Microphones2cand2cand a power button2dare disposed separately from each other in the front and rear direction at the upper end of the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7A (refer toFIGS. 13 and 16).

A tripod hole2eis formed at the lower end of the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7A (refer toFIG. 17). Rolling prevention protrusions2fand2fare provided on right and left sides of the tripod hole2eat the lower end of the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7A (refer toFIGS. 14 and 17). The rolling prevention protrusions2fand2fprotrude obliquely outward and downward. The imaging device2A is prevented from rolling by the rolling prevention protrusions2fand2fwhen the imaging device2A is placed on a desk or a table, and thus it is possible to prevent damage or a failure by the imaging device2A falling off desk or table or the like.

A zoom switch2gand a shutter button2hare arranged in the front and rear direction at the lower end of the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7A (refer toFIGS. 13 and 18).

A display part2jformed by a liquid crystal panel or the like is disposed at the right end of the circumferential surface part7aof the outer barrel7A (refer toFIG. 19).

The imaging device2A has a wireless communication function using NFC, WIFI, a wireless local area network (LAN), or the like. By using the wireless communication, for example, it is possible to perform various operations such as displaying or preserving an image data or a video data captured by the imaging device2A on the display device4, executing an image taking function of the imaging device2A by operating the display device4, and executing the zooming function of the imaging device2A by operating the display device4.

Also in the imaging device2A, in the same manner as the imaging device2, the operation rings70or the operation buttons71may be provided, and thus various modes can be changed, thereby further improving the convenience for a user in using the imaging device2.

Configuration of Adaptor

The adaptor3includes respective necessary parts disposed inside and outside a casing14(refer toFIGS. 20 to 22).

The casing14is formed by coupling a base body15located on the front side to a cover body16located on the rear side.

The base body15includes a base surface part17which is formed in a disc shape, projections18and18which protrude backward from the base surface part17, guide piece parts19and19which are respectively provided inside the projections18and18, and a protrusion piece part20which protrudes backward from the base surface part17(refer toFIG. 23).

The projections18and18are formed in shapes which protrude from positions opposite to each other, 180° apart on the outer circumference of the base surface part17, and extend in the circumferential direction at both of right and left ends of the base surface part17. The projection18is opened forward, and an inner space of the projection18is formed as a coupling recess part18a(refer toFIG. 20).

Locking pieces17a,17a, . . . which cover a portion of the coupling recess part18afrom the front side are provided on the outer circumference of the base surface part17. A locked hole17bwhich communicates with the coupling recess part18ais formed in the base surface part17.

The guide piece parts19and19are formed in a plate shape which extends in the vertical direction (refer toFIG. 23).

The protrusion piece part20is formed in a plate shape which protrudes from the lower end of the base surface part17and extends in the horizontal direction.

A space surrounded by the guide piece parts19and19and the protrusion piece part20in the base body15is formed as a mechanism arranging space15a. The protrusion piece part20has a function of shielding a mechanism disposed at the mechanism arranging space15afrom the outside and of preventing the mechanism disposed therein from being viewed from the outside of the adaptor3.

The cover body16has arrangement notches16aand16bwhose exteriors are formed in a circular shape except for a portion thereof and which are respectively opened upward and downward at the upper end and lower end (refer toFIGS. 23and24).

A storage recess part16cwhich is opened backward and upward continuously to the lower side of the arrangement notch16ais formed in the cover body16, and a storage recess part16dwhich is opened backward and downward continuously to the upper side of the arrangement notch16bis formed therein.

Both of right and left parts of the cover body16are respectively provided as arrangement parts21and21, and the arrangement parts21and21are connected to each other via a connection part22. The connection part22is a part between the storage recess parts16cand16d.

The arrangement part21is formed in a recess shape which is opened forward. A protrusion wall21awhich protrude forward and extends in the vertical direction is provided at the arrangement part21.

An inner space of the protrusion wall21aof the arrangement part21is formed as a spring arranging space21bwhich is opened forward and is longitudinally long. Upper walls and lower walls forming the spring arranging spaces21band21bformed in the arrangement parts21and21are respectively formed as spring receiving surfaces21cand21cand stopper surfaces21dand21d.

A first slider23is supported slidably in the vertical direction inside the casing14(refer toFIGS. 23 and 25). The first slider23has a supported surface part24which is formed in a C shape so as to be opened upward, side surface parts25and25which protrude backward from both of right and left ends of the supported surface part24, and overhang parts26and26which protrude in directions of being separated from each other from upper ends of the side surface parts25and25.

The first slider23is provided with a first spring receiving surface part27which protrudes backward from the lower end at the left end of the supported surface part24. The first slider23is provided with a protrusion receiving surface part28which protrudes backward from the lower end at the right end of the supported surface part24. The first slider23is provided with a second spring receiving surface part29which protrudes backward from the upper end at the right end of the supported surface part24.

In the first slider23, parts other than the overhang parts26and26are inserted into and disposed at the mechanism arranging space15a, and the overhang parts26and26are disposed so as to cover the guide piece parts19and19of the base body15from the rear side. In the first slider23, the side surface parts25and25are guided to the guide piece parts19and19so as to be slid in the vertical direction.

In a state in which the first slider23is disposed as described above, a first biasing spring30is disposed between the first spring receiving surface part27and one spring receiving surface21cof the cover body16. The first biasing spring30is, for example, a compression coil spring, and both ends thereof are pressed toward the first spring receiving surface part27and the spring receiving surface21c. Therefore, the first slider23is biased downward by the first biasing spring30. If the first slider23is biased downward by the first biasing spring30, the first spring receiving surface part27is pressed toward the left stopper surface21dof the cover body16, and thus a downward movement of the first slider23is restricted.

A second slider31is supported slidably in the vertical direction on the rear side of the first slider23inside the casing14. The second slider31has a base surface part32which is formed in a substantially rectangular shape which is longitudinally long, and a protrusion surface part33which protrude to the right from the right end at the lower end of the base surface part32.

The second slider31is provided with a spring support surface part34which protrude backward from the lower end of the protrusion surface part33. The second slider31is provided with a notch35for escape which is opened downward at the lower end of the base surface part32.

In the second slider31, the base surface part32is attached to and held in a decorative panel36. The decorative panel36includes a holding base36awhich has a longitudinally long and substantially rectangular shape, and side wall parts36band36bwhich protrude backward from both of right and left ends of the h36a. The base surface part32is held in the decorative panel36in a state of being installed on the rear surface of the holding base36aand being surrounded from the lateral sides by the side wall parts36band36b.

The second slider31is inserted into and disposed at the mechanism arranging space15ain a state of being held in the decorative panel36. The side wall parts36band36bof the decorative panel36are guided to the respective inner surfaces of the arrangement parts21and21of the cover body16, and thus the second slider31is slid in the vertical direction.

In a state in which the second slider31is disposed as described above, a second biasing spring37is disposed between the spring support surface part34and the second spring receiving surface part29of the first slider23. The second biasing spring37is, for example, a compression coil spring, and both ends thereof are pressed toward the spring support surface part34and the second spring receiving surface part29. Therefore, the second slider31is biased downward by the second biasing spring37. If the second slider31is biased downward by the second biasing spring37, the spring support surface part34is pressed toward the protrusion receiving surface part28of the first slider23, as a result, the protrusion receiving surface part28is pressed toward the right stopper surface21dof the base body15, and thus a downward movement of the second slider31is restricted.

A spring force of the first biasing spring30is smaller than a spring force of the second biasing spring37.

As described above, the first biasing spring30is disposed between the first spring receiving surface part27of the first slider23and one spring receiving surface21cof the cover body16, and the second biasing spring37is disposed between the spring support surface part34of the second slider31and the second spring receiving surface part29of the first slider23. Therefore, the first biasing spring30and the second biasing spring37are connected in series to each other via the first slider23. Therefore, the second slider31is biased downward by the first biasing spring30and the second biasing spring37.

A first attached body38is supported rotatably at the upper end of the base surface part32of the second slider31. The first attached body38has a pinch part39which is supported in the base surface part32and has a substantially plate shape, and a holding protrusion40which protrudes from a front end of the pinch part39in a direction perpendicular to the pinch part39.

The first attached body38is disposed at the arrangement notch16aformed in the cover body16in a state in which the base body15is coupled to the cover body16.

The first attached body38may be stored in the storage recess part16cin a first state so as to take a storage position (refer toFIG. 21) of being closed for the first slider23. In other words, the first attached body38is in a state of being stored in the base body15.

In addition, the first attached body38may take a holding position (refer toFIG. 22) of being opened for the first slider23in a second state. The first attached body38is rotatably moved between the storage position (first state) and the holding position (second state).

The first attached body38is in a state of protruding backward from the cover body16at the holding position.

An elastic body41is provided inside the pinch part39(refer toFIG. 26). The elastic body41is formed by integrally forming a plate-shaped surface-shaped part41aattached to the pinch part39, pushing protrusions41band41bwhich protrude from a central part of the surface-shaped part41ain the horizontal direction, and pressing protrusions41c,41c, . . . which are located on the right and left sides of the pushing protrusions41band41bwhich protrude from the surface-shaped part41atogether by using a rubber material.

The pushing protrusions41band41bare elastically deformable, are provided separately from each other in the horizontal direction, and are formed so as to extend in the front and rear direction in a state in which the first attached body38is rotatably moved to the holding position. The pushing protrusions41band41bare tilted so as to be horizontally separated from each other in the protruding directions.

The pressing protrusions41c,41c, . . . are elastically deformable, are provided separately from each other in the vertical direction, and are formed so as to extend in the horizontal direction. The pressing protrusions41c,41c, . . . are tilted so as to be close to the holding protrusion40in the protruding directions.

A support plate42is attached to the lower end side of the central part of the cover body16in the horizontal direction. A portion of the support plate42is located in the notch35for escape formed in the second slider31in a state in which the base body15is coupled to the cover body16, and thus interference between the support plate42and the second slider31is prevented.

A second attached body43is rotatably supported at the lower end of the support plate42. The second attached body43has a pinch part44which is supported in the support plate42and has a substantially plate shape, and a holding protrusion45which protrudes from a front end of the pinch part44in a direction perpendicular to the pinch part44.

The second attached body43is disposed at the arrangement notch16bformed in the cover body16in a state in which the base body15is coupled to the cover body16. The second attached body43is stored in the storage recess part16d, and is rotatably moved between a storage position (refer toFIG. 21) of being closed for the base body15and a holding position (refer toFIG. 22) of being opened for the base body15. The second attached body43is in a state of protruding backward from the cover body16at the holding position.

The same elastic body41as that provided inside the pinch part39of the first attached body38is provided inside the pinch part44(refer toFIG. 26).

As described above, since the first attached body38and the second attached body43are respectively stored in the storage recess parts16cand16d, the adaptor3can be carried or kept in a state in which the first attached body38and the second attached body43are stored when not used, and thus it is possible to improve a handling property when not used.

In addition, since the first attached body38and the second attached body43are respectively stored in the storage recess parts16cand16dwhen the adaptor3is not used, the first attached body38and the second attached body43do not protrude from the cover body16, and the first attached body38and the second attached body43can be prevented from being damaged or scratched.

Attachment and Detachment of Adaptor to and from Imaging Device

The adaptor3with the above-described configuration is coupled to the imaging device2or2A in the following manner.

First, the coupling parts12and12of the imaging device2or2A are respectively inserted into the coupling recess parts18aand18aformed in the base body15of the adaptor3.

Next, the adaptor3is rotated about the imaging device2or2A. If the adaptor3is rotated, the locking pieces17a,17a, . . . of the adaptor3are respectively engaged with the locking protrusions12a,12a, . . . of the imaging device2or2A, and thus a movement of the adaptor3is restricted in the front and rear direction with respect to the imaging device2or2A. In other words, the locking protrusions form a state of being engaged with the locking pieces17aand17aof the adaptor3.

At this time, simultaneously, the lock pin13of the imaging device2or2A is pressed by the base body15, as a result, the lock pin13is drawn into the outer barrel7against a biasing force of the spring so that the adaptor3is rotated to a predetermined position and the locked hole17bmatches the lock pin13. In addition, the lock pin13is made to protrude from the outer barrel7by the spring and is thus inserted into the locked hole17b.

When the lock pin13is inserted into the locked hole17b, rotation of the adaptor3for the imaging device2or2A is restricted, and the adaptor3is coupled to the imaging device2or2A in a locked state.

As described above, the imaging device2and the adaptor3are relatively rotated via the coupling parts12and12, and thus the imaging device2and the adaptor3can be easily coupled to each other. In addition, the coupling state is maintained by the lock pin13.

First and second coupling parts12and12which protrude backward are provided at positions opposite to each other, 180° apart on an outer circumference of the rear surface part7cof the outer barrel7(refer toFIGS. 3 and 6). Locking protrusions12aand12awhich protrude outward separately in a circumferential direction are respectively provided at the coupling parts12and12. A lock pin13is supported movably in the front and rear direction around the coupling part12of the rear surface part7c, and the lock pin13is biased backward by a spring (not illustrated).

The unlock lever2ais operated so that the lock pin13is drawn into the outer barrel7, and the adaptor3is rotated about the imaging device2or2A in a direction opposite to the time of the coupling in the unlocked state, thereby performing decoupling of the adaptor3from the imaging device2or2A. If the adaptor3is rotated about the imaging device2or2A in a direction opposite to the time of the coupling, the engagement state between the locking pieces17a,17a, . . . and the locking protrusions12a,12a, . . . of the imaging device2or2A is canceled. The adaptor3is moved backward with respect to the imaging device2or2A in this state, and the coupling parts12and12are extracted from the coupling recess parts18aand18a, thereby decoupling the adaptor3from the imaging device2or2A.

Operation During Attachment and Detachment of Adaptor to and from Display Device

Hereinafter, a description will be made of an operation during attachment and detachment of the adaptor3to and from the display device4(refer toFIGS. 27 to 33).

In a state in which the adaptor3is not attached to the display device4, a downward movement of the first slider23is restricted since the first spring receiving surface part27is pressed toward the left stopper surface21dof the cover body16by the biasing force of the first biasing spring30(refer toFIG. 27). In this case, a downward movement of the second slider31is restricted since the spring support surface part34is pressed toward the protrusion receiving surface part28of the first slider23by the second biasing spring37, and the protrusion receiving surface part28is pressed toward the right stopper surface21dof the base body15.

The first attached body38and the second attached body43are respectively extracted from the storage recess parts16cand16dof the cover body16and are rotatably moved to the holding positions, thereby performing attachment of the adaptor3to the display device4.

When the adaptor3is attached to the display device4, the first attached body38is grasped and moved upward.

When the first attached body38is moved up, first, the second slider31is moved up along with the movement of the first attached body38(refer toFIG. 28). If the second slider31is moved upward, the second biasing spring37is compressed.

Further, if the second slider31is moved upward along with the movement of the first attached body38, the second biasing spring37is compressed, and, simultaneously, the second spring receiving surface part29is pressed upward and the first slider23is moved upward due to the compression of the second biasing spring37(refer toFIG. 29). When the first slider23is moved upward, the first biasing spring30is compressed. Therefore, the second biasing spring37and the first biasing spring30are simultaneously compressed.

As described above, if the first attached body38is moved upward, the first attached body38is spaced far apart from the second attached body43. The first attached body38is moved upward to a position corresponding to a size of the display device4to be attached (refer toFIGS. 30 and 31).

Next, the display device4is pinched by the first attached body38and the second attached body43, and thus the adaptor3is attached to the display device4(refer toFIGS. 32 and 33). At this time, the first attached body38is biased to the second attached body43in a direction of being close thereto by the first biasing spring30and the second biasing spring37, and the elastic bodies41and41are in close contact with the display device4.

In a state in which the adaptor3is attached to the small-sized display device4, a gap between the first attached body38and the second attached body43is small (refer toFIG. 32), and, in a state in which the adaptor3is attached to the large-sized display device4, a gap between the first attached body38and the second attached body43is large (refer toFIG. 33).

In a state in which the adaptor3is attached to the display device4, the holding protrusion40of the first attached body38and the holding protrusion45of the second attached body43is in a state of going around to the rear surface side of the display device4. Therefore, the adaptor3is prevented from falling forward from the display device4.

As illustrated inFIG. 32orFIG. 33, when attached to the display device4, the adaptor3has a configuration in which the second attached body43is set to a fixed position, and the first attached body38side is extended. Only the first attached body38which is an upper side is extended and contracted, and a gap between the first attached body38and the second attached body43is adjusted. Therefore, an imaging optical axis of the imaging device2is located at a position which is equal to or lower than a central point in the height direction (the short side direction of the casing of the display device4) of the display panel6of the display device4. In addition, a bottom position of the imaging device2and a bottom position of the display device4substantially match each other regardless of a size of the display device4.

For this reason, a user can easily and stably hold the display device4attached with the imaging unit1regardless of the display device4. In addition, even in a case where the display device4attached with the imaging unit1is placed on a desk or the like as it is, a posture thereof is stable, and thus the display device4attached therewith is also suitable for imaging in this state.

In addition, the second attached body43is set to a fixed position, and thus there is an advantage in that an attachment state of the adaptor3to the display device4is stable.

A mark48which indicates a configuration in which the first attached body38side extends upward is provided at the adaptor3as illustrated inFIGS. 30 and 31. The mark48allows a user to recognize that a position of the first attached body38extends upward, and thus the user can easily understand an attached part during attachment to the display device4. Therefore, it is possible to improve usability.

The first attached body38is grasped, and the first attached body38is moved upward along with the second slider31so that the display device4is extracted between the first attached body38and the second attached body43, thereby removing the adaptor3from the display device4. If the upward force given to the first attached body38is removed after the display device4extracted between the first attached body38and the second attached body43, the first attached body38is moved downward along with the second slider31and the first slider23, and the first slider23and the second slider31are returned to an original state before being attached to the display device4, by the biasing forces of the first biasing spring30and the second biasing spring37.

Operation due to series connection between first biasing spring and second biasing spring

As described above, in the adaptor3, the first biasing spring30and the second biasing spring37are connected in series to each other via the first slider23, and the second biasing spring37and the first biasing spring30are simultaneously compressed due to a sliding operation of the first slider23.

A description will be made of an operation when the second biasing spring37and the first biasing spring30are simultaneously compressed (refer toFIG. 34).

FIG. 34is a graph in which a transverse axis expresses an extension amount (compression amount) and a longitudinal axis expresses a spring force (strength). In the imaging unit1, the display devices4having different sizes are preferably pinched at a constant force by the first attached body38and the second attached body43, and, ideally, a spring force is constant even in a state in which an extension amount of the spring varies (state A).

The state B and the state C illustrated in the graph respectively indicate relationships between extension amounts of the first biasing spring and the second biasing spring having different spring forces and strengths, and are considerably tilted relative to the state A.

On the other hand, the state D indicates a relationship between an extension amount and a strength when the first biasing spring and the second biasing spring are connected in series to each other, and the state D has a tilt angle relative to the state A, smaller than the states B and C, and is thus a state close to the ideal state A.

Therefore, as in the adaptor3, the first biasing spring30and the second biasing spring37are connected in series to each other, and the second biasing spring37and the first biasing spring30are simultaneously compressed due to the sliding operation of the first slider23. Thus, a variation in a downward biasing force to the first attached body38is small when a gap between the first attached body38and the second attached body43varies.

Operation of Pushing Protrusion and Pressing Protrusion of Adaptor

As described above, in a state in which the display device4is pinched by the first attached body38and the second attached body43, and the adaptor3is attached to the display device4, the pushing protrusions41b,41b, . . . and the pressing protrusions41c,41c, . . . of the elastic bodies41and41are in close contact with the display device4.

In a state in which the display device4is in close contact with the pushing protrusions41b, since the pushing protrusions41b,41b, . . . are elastically deformable, and the second attached body43is biased in a direction of being close to the first attached body38by the first biasing spring30and the second biasing spring37, the pushing protrusions41b,41b, . . . which are tilted with respect to the protruding direction from the surface-shaped part41aare elastically deformed, and are crushed between the display device4and the surface-shaped part41a(refer toFIG. 35).

Therefore, a contact area of the pushing protrusions41b,41b, . . . with the display device4increases, and it is possible to effectively prevent the adaptor3from falling off the display device4.

In addition, although, in the above description, the arranged pushing protrusions41band41bare tilted so as to be separated from each other in the arrangement direction and in the protruding directions from the surface-shaped part41a, conversely, the arranged pushing protrusions41band41bmay be tilted so as to be close to each other in the arrangement direction and in the protruding directions from the surface-shaped part41a.

Further, in a state in which the pressing protrusions41c,41c, . . . are in close contact with the display device4, since the since the pressing protrusions41c,41c, . . . are elastically deformable, and the second attached body43is biased in a direction of being close to the first attached body38by the first biasing spring30and the second biasing spring37, the pressing protrusions41c,41c, . . . which are tilted with respect to the protruding direction from the surface-shaped part41aare elastically deformed, and are crushed between the display device4and the surface-shaped part41a(refer toFIG. 36).

Therefore, a contact area of the pressing protrusions41c,41c, . . . with the display device4increases, and it is possible to effectively prevent the adaptor3from falling off the display device4.

In addition, since the pressing protrusions41c,41c, . . . are tilted so as to be separated from each other at rotatable movement points of the first attached body38and the second attached body43about the first slider23or the base body15in the protruding directions, it is difficult for the first attached body38and the second attached body43to be moved to an opposite side to the front end sides of the first attached body38and the second attached body43with respect to the display device4, and thus it is possible to more effectively prevent the adaptor3from falling off the display device4.

In addition, since the pressing protrusions41c,41c, . . . are provided in plurality separately from each other in directions which connect the rotatable movement directions of the first attached body38and the second attached body43to the front ends thereof, a contact area with the display device4considerably increases, and thus it is possible to further more effectively prevent the adaptor3from falling off the display device4.

Usage and the Like of Imaging Unit

As described above, the adaptor3attached to the imaging device2or2A is attached to the display device4, that is, the imaging device2or2A is attached to the display device4via the adaptor3, thereby forming the imaging unit1.

In a state in which the adaptor3is attached to the display device4, the first attached body38and the second attached body43are rotatably moved to the holding positions. In this state, for example, the first attached body38or the second attached body43and the display device4are placed on a placing surface50of a desk or the like, and thus the imaging unit1can be used in a stationary state (refer toFIG. 37).

As mentioned above, the first attached body38and the second attached body43has a function of attaching the adaptor3to the display device4, and also has a function of a stand for using the imaging unit1in a stationary state. Therefore, it is possible to improve the convenience for a user through the improvement of the functionality.

In addition, a capturing operation of an image data or a video data is the same in both of a portable state and a stationary state of the imaging unit1, and an image data or a video data acquired by the imaging device2or2A is displayed on the display panel6of the display device4through wireless communication between the imaging device2or2A and the display device4. A photographer may capture the image data or the video data acquired by the imaging device2or2A by checking a screen displayed on the display panel6, and by operating the shutter button2hof the imaging device2or2A or operating a predetermined operation part of the display panel6which is a touch panel.

Examples in which the Number of Biasing Springs is Different

Although, in the above description, the adaptor3in which two biasing springs including the first biasing spring30and the second biasing spring37are provided has been described as an example, the adaptor may include, for example, three or more biasing springs.

Hereinafter, a description will be made of an adaptor3A including three biasing springs (refer toFIG. 38). In addition, the adaptor3A described below is an example in which an adaptor according to an embodiment of the present technology can be formed using three or more biasing springs, and a configuration or the like thereof will be conceptually described below.

The adaptor3A includes a first slider23, a second slider31, and a third slider46which all can be slid in the vertical direction. A second biasing spring37is supported between the first slider23and the second slider31; a first biasing spring30is supported between the first slider23and the third slider46; and a third biasing spring47is supported between the third slider46and the cover body16.

Therefore, in the adaptor3A, the second biasing spring37, the first biasing spring30, and the third biasing spring47are connected in series to each other via the first slider23and the third slider46.

A spring force of the first biasing spring30is smaller than a spring force of the second biasing spring37, and a spring force of the third biasing spring47is smaller than the spring force of the first biasing spring30.

In the adaptor3A, if the second slider31is moved due to a movement of the first attached body38, the second biasing spring37is compressed so that the spring force of the second biasing spring37is applied to the first slider23, and thus the first slider23is moved in the same direction as the second slider31(refer toFIG. 39). In addition, if the first slider23is moved, the first biasing spring30is compressed so that the spring force of the first biasing spring30is applied to the third slider46, and thus the third slider46is moved in the same direction as the first slider23. Further, if the third slider46is moved, the third biasing spring47is compressed.

As mentioned above, in the adaptor3A, the second biasing spring37, the first biasing spring30, and the third biasing spring47are connected in series to each other via the first slider23and the third slider46, and the second biasing spring37, the first biasing spring30, and the third biasing spring47are simultaneously compressed due to the sliding operation of the first slider23. Therefore, a variation in a biasing force to the first attached body38is small when a gap between the first attached body38and the second attached body43varies.

In addition, in the adaptor according to the embodiment of the present technology, four or more biasing springs may be connected in series to each other via sliders.

One Embodiment of Imaging Unit

Hereinafter, a description will be made of a block diagram of an imaging unit according to an embodiment of the present technology (refer toFIG. 45).

The imaging unit1includes the imaging device2(2A) and the adaptor3(3A).

The imaging device2(2A) includes lens groups52which are arranged in an optical axis direction; an imaging element53which performs light incorporated via the lens groups52on photoelectric conversion; a camera signal processing portion54which performs a signal process such as analog-digital conversion of an image data captured by the imaging element53; and an image data processing portion55which performs recording and reproducing processes of the image data. In addition, the imaging device includes a reader/writer (R/W)56which reads and writes an image data from and to a memory card100; a central processing unit (CPU)57which controls the entire imaging device2(2A); an input operation portions58, (the zoom switch2g, the shutter button2h, and the like) such as various switches which allow a user to perform a necessary operation; and an NFC part59.

The camera signal processing portion54performs various signal processes such as conversion into a digital signal, noise removal, image quality correction, and conversion into a luminance/color difference signal, on an output signal from the imaging element53.

The image data processing portion55performs a compression encoding process or a decompression decoding process of an image data based on a predetermined image data format, or a conversion process of a data standard such as a resolution.

The R/W56writes an image data encoded by the image data processing portion55to the memory card100and reads an image data recorded in the memory card100.

The CPU57functions as a control process portion which controls the respective portions provided in the imaging device2(2A), and controls the respective portions on the basis of an instruction input signal from the input operation portions58, . . . .

In addition, the CPU57can transmit and receive a variety of data and control information to and from the display device4side through wireless communication performed by the communication part59having the above-described NFC part or WIFI communication part.

The input operation portions58,58, . . . output an instruction input signal corresponding to an operation performed by a user, to the CPU57.

The memory card100is, for example, a semiconductor memory which is attachable to and detachable from a memory card slot connected to the R/W56.

Hereinafter, an operation of the imaging device2(2A) will be described.

If a shutter (not illustrated) is operated in response to an instruction input signal from the input operation portions58,58, . . . , a captured image data is output to the image data processing portion55from the camera signal processing portion54so as to undergo a compression encoding process, and is converted into digital data with a predetermined data format. The converted data is output to the R/W56so as to be written to the memory card100. In addition, the converted data may be transmitted to the display device4through wireless communication so as to be output to the display panel6, or so as to be written to a recording portion of the display device4.

In a case where of reproducing the image data recorded in the memory card100, the predetermined image data is read by the R/W56from the memory card100in response to an operation on the input operation portions58,58, . . . , so as to undergo a decompression decoding process in the image data processing portion55, and then a reproduced image data is transmitted to the display device4through the wireless communication so as to be output to the display panel6, thereby displaying a reproduced image.

Battery Mounting Structure

A description will be made of a battery mounting structure in the above-described imaging device2with reference toFIGS. 40 to 44.

FIG. 40illustrates a rear surface of the battery lid2band a battery mounting part70which is exposed to the rear surface part7cside of the outer barrel7by opening the battery lid2b.

Four slide claws61are provided on the rear surface of the battery lid2b. In addition, a flexible connection member62which is positioned in a state of being inserted into bosses63,63, . . . is attached to the rear surface of the battery lid2b. The flexible connection member62is fixed to the rear surface of the battery lid2bthrough caulking to the bosses63or adhesion to rear surface of the battery lid2b. A front end62aof the flexible connection member62extends so as to protrude from the plane of the battery lid2b, and the front end62ais inserted into an insertion hole72provided at the upper side of the battery mounting part70.

FIG. 40illustrates, for description, a state in which the battery lid2bis removed from the outer barrel7, but, normally, in a case where the battery lid2bis dislocated, the front end62aof the flexible connection member62is locked in a state of being inserted into the insertion hole72as inFIG. 41. In other words, the flexible connection member62forms a hinge mechanism between the outer barrel7and the battery lid2b. Accordingly, even in a state in which the battery lid2bis opened, the battery lid2bdoes not fall from the outer barrel7. In addition, since the front end62ahas a length to an extent, the battery lid2bcan be moved freely to an extent with respect to the outer barrel7.

The battery mounting part70is a recessed space in which a flat square battery90illustrated inFIG. 41can be installed. Electrode terminals71,71and71which are in contact with electrode terminals91,91and91of the battery90are formed at the upper side of the battery mounting part70.FIG. 42illustrates a state in which the battery90is mounted in the battery mounting part70, and the electrode terminals91,91and91are in contact with the electrode terminals71,71and71in this state.

Locking rails74and74for attaching the battery lid2bare formed on the right and left on the rear side of the space as the battery mounting part70, and two notch parts73and73are formed in each of the two locking rails74and74.

A total of four notch parts73are formed at positions corresponding to the four slide claws61of the rear surface of the battery lid2b.

If the battery lid2bis to be closed, the rear surface of the battery lid2bis put on the rear surface part7cside of the outer barrel7, and the four slide claws61are respectively fitted into the four notch parts73as illustrated inFIG. 43. In addition, in this state, the battery lid2bis slid, which leads to a state ofFIG. 44. Accordingly the slide claws61are locked in the locking rails74and74, and thus the battery lid2bis in a closed state.

In a case of opening the battery lid2b, the battery lid2bis slid downward conversely. In addition, for this operation, as illustrated inFIG. 44, minute protrusions65for holding the finger or a mark66indicating a slide direction is preferably formed on the front surface side of the battery lid2b.

If a user slides the battery lid2bdownward, the four slide claws61are respectively moved to the positions of the four notch parts73as illustrated inFIG. 43. When the battery lid2bis raised in this state, the lid is opened as illustrated inFIG. 41.

As described above, the battery90is mounted in the battery mounting part70formed in the rear surface part7cside of the outer barrel7. In this case, the flat battery90is mounted in a posture in which the plane thereof is perpendicular to the imaging optical axis of the imaging device2. In a case where the battery90is mounted in parallel to the imaging optical axis, a shaped part for storing a remaining battery is necessarily formed in a substantially cylindrical shape of the outer barrel7, but if the battery90is stored in a vertical posture along the rear surface part7c, this does not influence the shape of the outer barrel. Accordingly, a degree of freedom of design of the imaging device2increases.

In addition, as described above, the battery mounting part70is provided at the rear surface part7c, which is thus suitable for miniaturization of the entire imaging device2in relation to a substrate (not illustrated) inside the outer barrel7. For example, the substrate on which the imaging element is disposed is arranged so as to be perpendicular to the optical axis, but the battery storage space is formed in parallel to the substrate, which is thus suitable for reducing a casing size in the optical axis direction.

The battery90is attachable and detachable, and thus can be changed to a preliminary battery, thereby providing convenience in use.

In addition, in a case where opening the battery lid2b, since the battery lid2bhas only to be slid downward and raised, the operation is simple, and a degree of freedom of a position is high in a state in which the battery lid does not fall by the flexible connection member62. For this reason, the battery lid2bis not impeded, and the battery lid2bis prevented from being lost, in a case of exchange batteries, and the like.

Since the upper side of the battery lid2bis connected to the outer barrel7by the flexible connection member62, the battery lid2bis easily located so as to naturally cover the battery mounting part70. For this reason, it becomes easier for a user to put the slide claws61at the positions of the notch parts73, and the battery lid2bcan be closed through a very simple operation in which the battery lid is slid upward as it is.

The battery lid2bis provided, and thus the rear surface part7clooks good. In addition, it is possible to prevent a battery from falling off.

In addition, the sliding during opening and closing of the battery lid2bis performed along the locking rails74and74, but this is performed in a state of avoiding the coupling parts12and12. Therefore, a function of the coupling parts12and12is not impeded. Of course, the coupling parts12and12have a fixed structure which is not slid, and, in relation to this fact, a function of the coupling parts12and12is maintained regardless of sliding of the battery lid2b.

In addition, the battery lid2bhas a structure of being slid downward, and thus the shape of the battery lid is not exposed to the upper side of the outer barrel7. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 8, the battery lid2bis exposed to the lower side, and the boundary with the battery lid2bis viewed on the circumferential surface of the outer barrel7. If this boundary is viewed on the upper side, this impairs the appearance. In other words, by using the downward sliding structure, the appearance of the upper side can be improved, and thus the appearance looks good.

Others

Although, in the above description, a description has been made of an example in which all of the first biasing spring30, the second biasing spring37, and the third biasing spring47are compression coil springs, these biasing springs may be different kinds of springs, and may be, for example, tensile coil springs.

In addition, although, in the above description, a description has been made of an example in which the first attached body38is moved in the vertical direction in a state of being biased in a direction of being close to the second attached body43, for example, the first attached body38and the second attached body43may be respectively moved in the vertical direction in a state of being biased in a direction in which both two bodies are close to each other. In this case, a sliding mechanism which allows the second attached body43to be moved in the vertical direction may be provided, and biasing forces of a plurality of springs which are connected in series to each other may be applied to the second attached body43.

The imaging device2has been described as having a substantially cylindrical shape, but a shape of the imaging device2is not limited. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 46, an outer barrel shape of the imaging device2may be a substantially rectangular parallelopiped shape.

Conclusion

In the above-described embodiment, the imaging unit1includes the imaging device2and the adaptor3.

Since the imaging unit is formed by the imaging device and the installation portion, the imaging device can be attached to an external display device so as to be used.

The imaging device2includes the communication part59which transmits an image data to an external device, the outer barrel7in which at least lens is disposed, the imaging element53, the image taking button (shutter button2h), and the power button2d. In addition, the zoom switch2gis included. Further, the rolling prevention part (rolling prevention protrusions2fand2f) which prevents the device casing from rolling in a placed state.

In addition, the circumferential surface part7ais provided at the outer barrel7; the shutter button2his disposed, for example, on the right side of the circumferential surface part7a; the power button2dis disposed at the upper side of the circumferential surface part7a; and the zoom switch2gis disposed at the circumferential surface part7a.

As described above, the imaging device2is suitable as a device which performs an imaging operation and/or a display operation in cooperation with an external display device. Particularly, since the imaging element53, the shutter button2h, the power button2d, and the zoom switch2gare provided at the circumferential surface part7a, the rear surface side can be attached to a display device, and thus it becomes easier to implement the imaging device2with a shape suitable for the cooperation with the display device.

In addition, the imaging device2is not provided with a display part which is used to display a captured image data obtained by the imaging element53. Accordingly, it becomes easier to realize miniaturization of an imaging device which is cooperated with an external display device, and it becomes easier to implement an imaging device with a shape suitable for attachment to an external display device.

The circumferential surface part7ais formed by a plurality of members. In other words, the circumferential surface part7ais not only formed by an integrated component as the outer barrel7, but is also formed by a combination with other components, for example, a member2kor the like. Accordingly, the circumferential surface part can be provided in a state in which a plurality of functional parts are provided. However, the circumferential surface part7amay be formed only by an integrated component as the outer barrel7.

In a case where the whole or a part of the circumferential surface part7ais curved, the rolling prevention protrusions2fand2fare useful.

The adaptor3which is attached to the imaging device2transmitting an image data to the external display device4, and allows the imaging device2to be attachable to and detachable from the display device4, includes sliders (23and31) which are slidable with respect to the outer barrel7of the imaging device2; the first attached body38connected to the sliders (23and31); the second attached body43which can change its gap with the first attached body38; and biasing members (first and second biasing springs30and37) which bias the first attached body38and the second attached body43in a direction in which a gap therebetween becomes narrowed. The display device4is grasped by the first attached body38and the second attached body43.

If the adaptor3is attached to the imaging device2, the imaging device2can be attached to the external display device4so as to be used.

When the imaging unit is viewed as a whole, the first attached body38and the second attached body43are disposed at the rear surface side thereof, and thus a structure of being attached to a display device on the rear surface side of the imaging unit is realized.

The imaging device2includes the first and second coupling parts12and12which can be coupled to the adaptor3which is an installation device; the first and second coupling parts12and12are disposed at the rear surface part7cof the outer barrel7; and the storage part (the battery mounting part70) which stores a battery is provided between the first coupling part12and the second coupling part12in the rear surface part7cof the outer barrel7.

Therefore, the battery mounting part70is provided by effectively using the rear surface part in which the first and second coupling parts12and12are provided, that is, the space of the installation surface side with the adaptor3. Particularly, since the battery mounting part70is provided between the first and second coupling parts12and12, the battery mounting part70can be provided in a state in which installation of the adaptor3is not impeded.

The imaging device2and the adaptor3are coupled to each other by relatively rotating the imaging device2main body and the adaptor3via the first and second coupling parts12and12. Accordingly, the imaging device and the installation device can be easily coupled to each other.

As described above, in the imaging unit1(51) and the adaptor3or3A, the first attached body38is connected to the second slider31in which the number of biasing springs interposed up to the base body15is the maximum; a gap between the first attached body38and the second attached body43varies so as to be attached to the display devices4having different sizes; and spring forces of the biasing springs are reduced in an order from the first attached body38side to the base body15side.

Therefore, when a gap between the first attached body38and the second attached body43varies, a spring force hardly varies regardless of an extension amount of the biasing spring, and a variation in a biasing force in a direction of the first attached body38being close to the second attached body43is small. Thus, it is possible to ensure a state in which the adaptor3is stably attached to the display device4regardless of a size of the display device4.

In addition, since a plurality of biasing springs are connected in series to each other, a large extension amount of the biasing spring can be secured in proportion thereto, and a sufficient gap between the first attached body38and the second attached body43can be secured so as to correspond to the display devices4having different sizes.

Further, in the adaptor3, the first slider23and the second slider31are provided as a plurality of sliders; the first biasing spring30and the second biasing spring37are provided as a plurality of biasing springs; and a spring force of the first biasing spring30is smaller than a spring force of the second biasing spring37.

Therefore, with the minimally necessary configuration, it is possible to reduce a difference between spring forces based on a gap between the first attached body38and the second attached body43, and it is possible to reduce the number of components and simplify mechanisms. Thus, it is possible to ensure a state in which the adaptor3is stably attached to the display device4regardless of a size of the display device4.

Furthermore, since the plurality of biasing springs are arranged in a direction perpendicular to a sliding direction of the slider, it is possible to miniaturize the adaptor3and3A in the sliding direction.

Present Technology

The effects described in the present specification are only an example, and are not limited, and other effects may be achieved.

The present technology may have the following configurations.

(1) An imaging device including a communication part that transmits an image data to an external display device; an outer barrel; an imaging element; and first and second coupling parts that are configured to be coupled to an installation device which is attachable to and detachable from the display device, in which the first and second coupling parts are disposed at a rear surface part of the outer barrel, and in which a storage part that stores a battery is provided between the first coupling part and the second coupling part in the rear surface part of the outer barrel.

(2) The imaging device according to the above (1), in which the storage part allows a battery to be stored from a direction which is substantially perpendicular to an imaging optical axis.

(3) The imaging device according to the above (1) or (2), in which the storage part is provided with a battery lid that closes the storage part storing a battery.

(4) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (3), in which the storage part is provided with a battery lid that closes the storage part storing a battery, and in which the battery lid is slid downward.

(5) The imaging device according to the above (4), in which the first and second coupling parts are set to fixed positions so as not to be slid in the rear surface part.

(6) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (3), in which the storage part is provided with a battery lid that closes the storage part storing a battery, and in which the battery lid is slid to avoid the first and second coupling parts.

(7) The imaging device according to the above (6), in which the first and second coupling parts are set to fixed positions so as not to be slid in the rear surface part.

(8) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (7), in which the storage part is provided with a battery lid that closes the storage part storing a battery, in which the battery lid includes a connection member to the rear surface part of the outer barrel, in which the connection member connects an upper side of the battery lid to the rear surface part, and in which the battery lid can be opened upward with the connection member as a fulcrum.

(9) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (8), in which the storage part has a connection terminal to a battery, which is provided at an upper side in a battery storage space.

(10) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (9), in which the storage part is formed so that a battery is horizontally symmetrically stored.

(11) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (10), in which the first and second coupling parts protrude backward from the rear surface part of the outer barrel.

(12) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (11), in which the first and second coupling parts are disposed at an outer circumference of the rear surface part of the outer barrel.

(13) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (12), in which the first and second coupling parts include locking protrusions that protrude outward separately from each other in a circumferential direction.

(14) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (13), in which a lock pin that maintains a coupling state is formed around the first and second coupling parts.

(15) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (14), in which an imaging device main body and the installation device are relatively rotated via the first and second coupling parts so as to couple the imaging device main body and the installation device to each other.

(16) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (15), further including an image taking button; a power button; and a zoom switch, in which a circumferential surface part is provided at the outer barrel, in which the image taking button is disposed at a left side of the circumferential surface part, in which the power button is disposed at an upper side of the circumferential surface part, and in which the zoom switch is disposed at the circumferential surface part.

(17) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (15), further including an image taking button; a power button; a zoom switch; and a rolling prevention part that prevents a device casing from rolling in a placed state, in which a circumferential surface part which at least partially has a curved surface is provided at the outer barrel, in which the image taking button is disposed at the circumferential surface part, in which the power button is disposed at the circumferential surface part, in which the zoom switch is disposed at the circumferential surface part, and in which the rolling prevention part is disposed at a lower side of the circumferential surface part.

(18) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (15), further including an image taking button; and a power button, in which a circumferential surface part is provided at the outer barrel, and in which the image taking button and the power button are disposed at different positions in a circumferential direction on the circumferential surface part.

(19) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (18), further including a power button, in which the power button is disposed so as not to further protrude than a surface forming the circumferential surface part of the outer barrel.

(20) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (19), in which a microphone that inputs an external sound is disposed at the circumferential surface part of the outer barrel.

(21) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (20), in which a tripod hole is disposed at a lower end of a circumferential surface part of the outer barrel.

(22) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (21), in which a near field communication part is disposed at positions other than a rear surface side of the outer barrel.

(23) The imaging device according to any one of the above (1) to (22), in which a near field communication part is disposed at an upper side of a circumferential surface part of the outer barrel.