Patent Publication Number: US-6661589-B2

Title: Lens barrel

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/144,209, filed May 10, 2002, which is a divisional of application Ser. No. 09/872,043, filed Jun. 1, 2001 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,411,448 which is a divisional of application Ser. No. 09/469,763, filed Dec. 22, 1999 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,262,853 in the name of Tatsuo Takanashi and Mitsuhiro Sato and entitled “LENS BARREL”. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to a lens barrel enabled to adjust the position of an optical axis of a frame member and/or the inclination of the optical axis thereof. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     A conventional lens adjusting device for correcting misalignment of the center of an optical axis of a lens according to a utility model relating to a lens frame is proposed in the Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 60-150511 Official Gazette, utilizes rotatable eccentric screws or pins. This conventional device has an adjusting structure including plural notch portions, each of which is provided in an outer periphery of the lens and engaged with an eccentric pin. The aforementioned device causes a micro-movement of the lens in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis thereof by rotating the eccentric pins, so that the centering of the lens is achieved. 
     However, the conventional device proposed in the Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 60-150511 Official Gazette requires plural eccentric pins and is thus disadvantageous in its cost. Further, it is necessary for moving the lens in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis to simultaneously or alternately rotate plural eccentric pins. Therefore, the conventional device has a drawback in that it is difficult to perform the centering of the lens. Moreover, in the case of some support structure for the lens, there is the possibility that when the eccentric pins are rotated, the optical axis of the lens does not simply perform translation but inclines. 
     Furthermore, a conventional method of assembling a lens system for correcting the misalignment of the lens frame, which includes the inclination of the optical axis thereof, is proposed in the Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 59-68710 Official Gazette. According to this conventional method, a lens system is assembled, and aligned by correcting the misalignment of the inclination of the optical axis of a lens that is held adjacent with other lenses by space forming rings, and by subsequently bonding the lenses with the space forming rings on the outer periphery thereof and fixing the lenses thereon. 
     In the case of the assembling method proposed in the Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 59-68710, there is the probability that the optical center is changed simultaneously with adjusting the inclination of the optical axis of the lens. Hence, the adjustment of only the inclination of the optical axis of the lens cannot be performed. Further, even in the case of adjusting the inclination and position of the optical axis of a lens, both the inclination and position thereof simultaneously change, as described above. Thus, this conventional method has a drawback in that it is difficult to perform such an adjusting operation. 
     Moreover, a semiconductor laser light source serving as a device including an optical axis position adjusting structure of a support portion (namely, a frame portion) for supporting an optical component is disclosed in the Japanese Patent Publication No. 61-46895 Official Gazette, which device has an optical axis position adjusting structure that can perform fine adjustment of the optical axis position of a frame portion for supporting a semiconductor laser chip. FIG. 40 is an enlarged diagram illustrating the concept of the optical axis position adjusting structure. 
     In the optical axis position adjusting structure, a frame portion  311   b  for holding a laser light source portion acting as an optical component is supported against a support portion  311   a  through an elastically deformable cantilever-like plate spring portion  311   c . When a side of a lens frame portion  311   b  is pushed by exerting a pressing force F 0  thereon so as to adjust the optical axis position in the lateral direction of the optical component, the optical axis position Z 0  is displaced leftwardly, as viewed in this figure, to a position Z 1 , to which the optical axis position is adjusted, by a movement amount δ x0 . 
     However, simultaneously, the optical axis position is displaced upwardly or downwardly by a movement amount δ y0 , so that the adjustment of the optical axis position in the upward or downward direction is necessary. Furthermore, when the center of the optical axis is moved from the position Z 0  to the position Z 1 , the optical component rotates around the optical axis. This adversely affects the entire optical system. Thus, this conventional device has a drawback in that the adjustment of the optical axis position cannot be favorably achieved. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is accomplished to eliminate the aforementioned drawbacks of the prior art. Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a lens barrel, which reliably and easily achieves the adjustment of an optical member, by operations that center and adjust the optical axis of the optical member. 
     In one form thereof, the objects of the invention are realized with the lens barrel which comprises a first frame and a second frame, at least one of which holds an optical device, e.g., a lens. The first frame has respective first and second frame portions and the second frame has respective third and fourth frame portions. 
     Associated with the first frame is a first adjusting member that is constructed to move either the first or the second frame portion in a direction that lies in a plane that is substantially orthogonal to the optical axis of the lens barrel. A respective second adjusting member performs a similar function for the second frame. 
     In accordance with preferred embodiments, the adjusting members can be in the form of a threadable screw whose threading direction extends orthogonally to the optical axis of the lens. The adjusting directions of the first and second adjusting members may preferably be orthogonal to one another. 
     In accordance with preferred embodiments, also included is a guide frame that movably guides at least one of the first and second frames in the direction of the optical axis. The first and second frames are constructed to be insertable into the guide frame, which is so constructed as to allow access to at least one of the first and second adjusting members from outside of the guide frame. 
     A cam ring can be provided in which the first frame and the second frame are receivable, one behind the other, with the cam ring being in turn receivable within the guide frame. The first and second frames may comprise respective cam followers and the cam followers are receivable within guiding slots in the guide frame. 
     Thus, the adjusting members deform first and second connecting portions that connect the first and second frame portions and the third and fourth frame portions, respectively. By this action, the frame portions are translated in planes that are substantially orthogonal to the optical axis without causing rotational displacement of the frame portions. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     Other features, objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings in which like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout several views, and in which: 
     FIG.  1 (A) is an enlarged plan view showing an example of the concept of an optical axis position adjusting structure of a lens frame in a lens barrel of the present invention in the case of employing a structure in which a frame portion is cantilevered by a parallel spring; 
     FIG.  1 (B) is an enlarged plan view showing another example of the concept of the optical axis position adjusting structure of a lens frame in a lens barrel of the present invention in the case of employing a structure in which a frame portion is supported at both ends thereof by parallel springs; 
     FIG.  1 (C) is an enlarged plan view showing still another example of the concept of the optical axis position adjusting structure of a lens frame in a lens barrel of the present invention in the case of employing a structure in which a frame portion is supported at both ends thereof by opposed simple plate springs; 
     FIG. 2 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a first embodiment of a lens barrel of the present invention; 
     FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken on line I-O-I of FIG. 2; 
     FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the lens frame of the first embodiment is inserted into a guide frame of the lens barrel; 
     FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a second embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention; 
     FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken on line II-O-II of FIG. 5; 
     FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a state in which a feed screw and a guide shaft are fitted into the lens frame of the second embodiment; 
     FIG. 8 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a third embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention; 
     FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken on line III-O-III of FIG. 8; 
     FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the third embodiment; 
     FIG. 11 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a fourth embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention; 
     FIG. 12 is a sectional view taken on line IV-O-IV of FIG. 11; 
     FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the fourth embodiment; 
     FIG. 14 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a fifth embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention; 
     FIG. 15 is a sectional view taken on line V-O-V of FIG. 14; 
     FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the fifth embodiment; 
     FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the fifth embodiment in which a cam ring is incorporated; 
     FIG. 18 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a sixth embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention; 
     FIG. 19 is a sectional view taken on line VI-O-VI of FIG. 18; 
     FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the sixth embodiment; 
     FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the sixth embodiment in which a cam ring is incorporated; 
     FIG. 22 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a seventh embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention; 
     FIG.  23 (A) is a sectional view taken on line VII-O-VII of FIG. 22; 
     FIG.  23 (B) is a sectional view taken on line VIII-O-VIII of FIG. 22; 
     FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a lens frame of the seventh embodiment; 
     FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame of the seventh embodiment in which a cam ring is incorporated; 
     FIG. 26 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is an eighth embodiment of the lens barrel of the present invention; 
     FIG. 27 is a sectional view taken on line IX—IX of FIG. 26; 
     FIG. 28 is a sectional view taken on line XI—XI of FIG. 26; 
     FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the lens frame of the eighth embodiment in a state into which an optical device is inserted; 
     FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of a lens barrel that is a ninth embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 31 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame applied to a lens barrel that is a ninth embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 32 is a sectional view taken on line XII-O-XII of FIG. 31; 
     FIG. 33 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame that is a second frame applied to the lens barrel that is the ninth embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 34 is a sectional view taken on line XIII-O-XIII of FIG. 33; 
     FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view of a lens barrel that is a tenth embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 36 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame having a first frame applied to the lens barrel that is the tenth embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 37 is a sectional view taken on line XIV-O-XIV of FIG. 36; 
     FIG. 38 is a plan view illustrating a lens frame having a second frame applied to the lens barrel that is the tenth embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 39 is a sectional view taken on line XV-O-XV of FIG. 38; and 
     FIG. 40 is an enlarged view of an optical axis position adjusting structure of a conventional frame portion. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Before the detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, a description is given about the concept of an optical axis position adjusting structure, which is applicable to a lens barrel of the present invention, for adjusting the optical axis position (namely, a position in a direction perpendicular to a direction of an optical axis) of a lens frame (namely, a frame member), which is operative to hold an optical device. 
     In the case of the optical axis position adjusting structure of the lens frame, an optical device is directly or indirectly supported by an elastically deformable plate spring and pushes the frame portion in an adjusting direction. Thus, the optical axis position of an optical device is adjusted. FIGS.  1 (A),  1 (B), and  1 (C) are enlarged diagrams schematically illustrating the adjusting structures, which differ from one another in frame-portion supporting structure. FIG.  1 (A) shows a structure in which a frame portion is cantilevered by a parallel spring. FIG.  1 (B) shows a structure in which a frame portion is supported at both ends thereof by parallel springs. FIG.  1 (C) shows a structure in which a frame portion is supported at both ends thereof by opposed simple plate springs. 
     In the case of the optical axis position adjusting structure of the lens frame of FIG.  1 (A), a frame portion  301   b  for holding an optical device is supported against a support portion  301   a  by an elastically deformable cantilevered parallel spring portion  301   c . When a side of the frame portion  301   b  is pushed by exerting a pressing force F a  thereon so as to adjust the optical axis position in the lateral direction of the optical device, the optical axis position A 0  is displaced leftwardly, as viewed in this figure, to a position A 1 , to which the optical axis position is adjusted, by a movement amount δ xa . The parallel spring portion  301   c  deforms while maintaining nearly the horizontal position (parallel position) thereof. Thus, a movement amount δ ya  in an upward or downward direction is very small. Consequently, the rotational component of a movement of the optical device held in the frame portion is very small, so that favorable adjustment is achieved. 
     In the case of the frame position adjusting structure of FIG.  1 (B), a frame portion  302   b  for supporting an optical device is supported at both ends thereof against a support portion  302   a  by elastically deformable parallel spring portions  302   c  and  302   e , which are in a both-end supporting state. When a side of the frame portion  302   b  is pushed by exerting a pressing force F b  thereon so as to adjust the optical axis position in the lateral direction of the optical device, the optical axis position B 0  is displaced leftwardly, as viewed in this figure, to a position B 1 , to which the optical axis position is adjusted, by a movement amount δ xb . The parallel spring portions  302   c  and  302   e  deform while these spring portions support the frame portion  302   b  from above and below by maintaining a state in which these spring portions are nearly parallel to each other. Thus, a movement amount δ yb  in an upward or downward direction is very small. Consequently, the rotational component of a movement of the optical device held in the frame portion is very small, so that favorable adjustment is attained. 
     In the case of the frame position adjusting structure of FIG.  1 (C), a frame portion  303   b  for supporting an optical device is supported at both ends thereof against upper and lower support portions  303   a  and  303   d  by elastically deformable parallel spring portions  303   c  and  303   e , which are in a both-end supporting state. When a side of the frame portion  303   b  is pushed by exerting a pressing force F c  thereon so as to adjust the optical axis position in the lateral direction of the optical device, the optical axis position C 0  is displaced leftwardly, as viewed in this figure, to a position C 1 , to which the optical axis position is adjusted, by a movement amount δ yc . The parallel spring portions  303   c  and  303   e  deform while these spring portions support the frame portion  303   b  from above and below by maintaining a state in which these spring portions are nearly parallel to each other. Thus, a movement amount δ yc  in an upward or downward direction is very small. Consequently, the rotational component of a movement of the optical device held in the frame portion is very small, so that favorable adjustment is achieved. 
     Among the embodiments of the present invention, first, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel of a first embodiment, will be described hereinbelow. 
     FIG. 2 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the first embodiment. Further, FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken on line I-O-I of FIG.  2 . FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the lens frame inserted in a guide frame of a lens barrel. 
     A lens frame  9  of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the position of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. The lens frame  9  consists mainly of a lens frame body  1 , and a lens  2 , which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body  1 , and cam followers  3 ,  4 , and  5 . This lens frame  9  is adapted so that the fine adjustment of the optical system position of the lens  2 , namely, the optical axis position of the lens  2  with respect to the lens frame body  1 , can be performed and lens centration can be effected. 
     An adjustment reference for adjustment of the optical axis position may be the outermost diameter of the lens frame body  1 , and is selected according to a condition in which the lens frame is mounted in the optical equipment. 
     Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens  2  and orthogonal to each other. The “X-axis” and “Y-axis” pass through the center P 0  in the direction of the optical axis O of the lens  2  and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. 
     The lens frame body  1  is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frames  1   a ,  1   b , and  1   c . A ring-like inner frame  1   a  serves as a holding member for holding the lens  2 , a ring-like intermediate frame  1   b  serves as a first support frame disposed so that the frame  1   b  surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame  1   a  and forms a gap between the frames  1   a  and  1   b , and a ring like outer frame  1   c  is disposed so that the frame  1   c  surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame  1   b  and forms a gap between the frames  1   b  and  1   c . Incidentally, the cam followers  3 ,  4 , and  5  are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame  1   c  is trisected. 
     The inner frame  1   a  and the intermediate frame  1   b  are connected by parallel spring portions  1   d  and  1   e , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames  1   a  and  1   b . The parallel spring portions  1   d  and  1   e  are two deformable plate-like first connecting portions extending upwardly and downwardly in parallel with each other in such a way as to be laid across Y-axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis. 
     Further, the intermediate frame  1   b  and the outer frame  1   c  are connected by parallel spring portions  1   f  and  1   g,  which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames  1   b  and  1   c . The parallel spring portions  1   f  and  1   g  are two deformable plate-like second connecting portions extending laterally in parallel with each other in such a way ds to be laid across X-axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis. 
     Incidentally, it is assumed that the parallel spring portions  1   d  and  1   e  can elastically deform in the direction of X-axis, while the parallel spring portions  1   f  and  1   g  can elastically deform in the direction of Y-axis. Further, these parallel springs have shapes that are nearly symmetrical with respect to planes containing X-axis or Y-axis, so that when these parallel springs are pushed by adjustment screws through screw abutting portions in corresponding directions, the inner frame  1   a  or the intermediate frame  1   b  is deformed in such a way as to perform translation (parallel displacement) without being inclined to the optical axis O. 
     In the intermediate frame  1   b , a female screw portion  2   i  is provided on X-axis. In the inner frame  1   a , a screw abutting surface  1   k  is provided at a place inwardly opposed to the female screw portion  1   i.  Furthermore, in the outer frame  1   c , an opening  1   h , through which an adjustment screw passes, is provided at a place outwardly opposed to the female screw portion  1   i.  Similarly, in the outer frame  1   c , a female screw portion  1   j  is provided on Y-axis. In the intermediate frame  1   b , a screw abutting surface  1   m  is provided at a place inwardly opposed to the female screw  1   j.    
     A first adjustment screw  6  serving as a first adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion  1   i  of the intermediate frame  1   b  through the opening  1   h.  Further, an adjustment screw  7  serving as a second adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion  1   j  of the outer frame  1   c . Incidentally, the adjustment screws  6  and  7  are slotted machine screws. 
     Additionally, the initial lens optical axis position Z is set in such a way as to be slightly rightwardly and upwardly eccentric from the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, as viewed in FIG.  2 . Immediately upon completion of assembling the lens frame  9  of this embodiment, in which the optical system position is unadjusted, the lens optical axis position Z is set in such a manner as to be more than at least an eccentricity adjustment amount of the lens optical axis position, with intention of performing adjustment by maintaining a state in which the adjustment screws  6  and  7  are screwed thereinto and which end faces of the screws  6  and  7  are abutted against the screw abutting surfaces  1   k  and  1   m , respectively. 
     Next, an optical system position adjusting operation of the lens frame  9  of the first embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow. 
     First, when the lens frame  9  alone is to be adjusted, the outer periphery of the outer frame  1   c  of the lens frame body  1 , to which the lens  2  and the cam followers  3 ,  4 , and  5  are fitted, is held by an adjustment jig. Then, adjustment screws  6  and  7  are inserted into the female screw portions  1   i  and  1   j.  The adjustment screws  6  and  7  are screwed thereinto by simultaneously observing a detection signal generated by a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion provided in the adjustment jig. Thus, the adjustment of the initial lens optical is performed by causing a micro-movement of the initial lens optical axis position Z to the adjustment target position of the optical axis O. Thereafter, the adjustment screws  6  and  7  are fixed to the female screw portions  1   i  and  1   j  by adhesives thereby finishing the adjustment of the optical axis position Z. 
     Incidentally, the movement of the optical axis position Z at the time of the adjustment thereof is realized by deforming the parallel spring portions (namely, deforming portions)  1   d  and  1   e  in the direction of X-axis, and deforming the parallel spring portions (namely, deforming portion)  1   f  and  1   g  in the direction of Y-axis. This deformation is microdeformation and synthesized from bending strain, which is caused due to the bending moment of the parallel spring portion, and shearing strain, which is caused owing to the hearing force thereof. Further, if readjustment of the lens frame is not performed, such deformation may be obtained by utilizing not only elastic deformation but also plastic deformation. 
     Furthermore, in the case that the adjustment of the lens frame  9  is performed in a state in which the lens frame  9  is incorporated into the guide frame  8  holding the lens frame as shown in a perspective diagram of FIG. 4, the lens frame body  1 , into which the lens  2  is incorporated, is mounted in the guide frame  8 . The cam followers  3 ,  4 , and  5  are inserted into guide grooves  8   a ,  8   b , and  8   c , respectively and securely fixed to the outer frame  1   c . Then, the adjustment screws  6  and  7  are inserted into the female screw portions  1   i  and  1   j  from the outer-periphery side of the guide frame  8  through the adjustment openings  8   d  and  8   e . Thereafter, the adjustment of the lens frame  9  is performed by using the aforementioned adjustment jig, similarly as in the case of performing the adjustment of the lens frame alone. 
     As described above, in the case of the lens frame  9  of the first embodiment, the lens frame body  1  has an integral structure and the lens frame  9  has a simple configuration. Moreover, the adjustment of the position of the lens optical axis O is attained by using two adjustment screws. This makes the adjustment thereof extremely easy to perform. Furthermore, even if the adjustment of the position of the lens optical axis O is performed, the optical axis O is prevented from being inclined. Consequently, a lens frame with high optical accuracy is obtained. Further, even if the lens frame is incorporated into the guide frame such as a cam ring, the adjustment can be effected by inserting the adjustment screws from the outer periphery of the guide frame through the adjustment opening. 
     Incidentally, simple-plate-spring-like connecting portions or simple cylindrical connecting portions may be employed as the connecting portions  1   d ,  1   e ,  1   f,  or  1   g  of the lens frame  9  of the aforementioned first embodiment, instead of the parallel spring like portions. Moreover, although the deformation caused in the parallel spring portions at the time of the adjustment is synthesized from the bending distortion and the shearing distortion, the adjustment may be performed by utilizing only one of the bending distortion and the shearing distortion. 
     Furthermore, even if the lens  2  and the lens frame body  1  are formed in such a way as to be integral with each other, the optical system position adjusting structure of the aforementioned embodiment may be applied to such a lens frame. Additionally, screws having locking functions may be employed as the adjustment screws  6  and  7 . This eliminates the need for an adhesion operation performed in the aforementioned embodiment after the adjustment. 
     Further, although the parallel spring portions  1   d ,  1   e ,  1   f  and  1   g  serving as the connecting portions are molded in such a manner as to be integral with the lens frame body  1 , a metallic plate spring member may be formed by being insert-molded in the lens frame body  1 . In this case, the adjustment amount can be set at a large value. Moreover, the lens frame body  1  is formed by being molded. However, a press-molded metallic plate may be employed as the lens frame body  1 . 
     Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel that is a second embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereunder. 
     FIG. 5 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the second embodiment. Further, FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken on line II-O-II of FIG.  5 . FIG. 7 is a perspective view of this lens frame in a state in which a feed screw and a guide shaft are fitted thereinto. 
     A lens frame  10  of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the position of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. The lens frame  10  consists mainly of a lens frame body  11 , and a prism lens  12 , which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body  11 . When this lens frame  10  is incorporated into the optical equipment, this lens frame  10  is supported by a feed screw  15  and a guide shaft  16  in such a way as to be able to proceed and retreat in the direction of the optical axis O, as illustrated in FIG.  7 . 
     Similar to the lens frame  9 , the lens frame  10  is adapted so that the fine adjustment of the optical system position of the lens  12 , namely, the optical axis position of the lens  12  with respect to the lens frame body  11  can be performed. Incidentally, in the case of this embodiment, adjustment references for adjustment of the optical axis position O are the position of a female screw portion  11   k,  into which the feed screw  15  is screwed, and the position of a notch portion  11   m,  into which the guide shaft  16  is fitted. 
     Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens  12  and orthogonal to each other. The “X-axis” and “Y-axis” pass through the center P 0  in the direction of the optical axis O of the lens  12  and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions. 
     The lens frame body  11  is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frames  11   a,    11   b , and  11   c . A rectangular inner frame  1   a  serves as a holding member for holding the lens  12 , a channel-like intermediate frame  11   b  serves as a first support frame disposed so that the frame  11   b  surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame  1   a  and forms a gap between the frames  11   a  and  11   b , and a rectangular outer frame  11   c  is disposed so that the frame  11   c  surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame  11   b  and forms a gap between the frames  11   b  and  11   c.    
     The inner frame  11   a  and the intermediate frame  11   b  are connected by parallel spring portions  11   d  and  11   e,  which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames  11   a  and  11   b . The parallel spring portions  11   d  and  11   e  are two deformable rectangular plate-like opposed first connecting portions extending upwardly and downwardly at both sides of Y-axis. 
     Further, the intermediate frame  11   b  and the outer frame  11   c  are connected by parallel spring portions  11   f  and  11   g , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with these frames  11   b  and  11   c . The parallel spring portions  11   f  and  11   g  are two deformable opposed plate-like second connecting portions extending laterally at both sides of X-axis. 
     Incidentally, it is assumed that the parallel spring portions  11   d  and  11   e  can elastically deform in the direction of X-axis, while the parallel spring portions  11   f  and  11   g  can elastically deform in the direction of Y-axis. Further, these parallel springs have shapes that are nearly symmetrical with respect to a plane containing X-axis or Y-axis. The distribution of the stiffness of each of the parallel spring portions is nearly symmetrical with respect to X-axis or Y-axis. 
     Thus, when these parallel springs are pushed by adjustment screws through screw abutting portions in corresponding directions, the inner frame  11   a  or the intermediate frame  11   b  is deformed in such a way as to perform translation (parallel displacement) without being inclined to the optical axis O. Moreover, when the deformation is caused, the lens  12 , which is a prism lens, is prevented from causing a rotational displacement around the optical axis O. 
     In the intermediate frame  11   b , a female screw portion  11   i  is provided on X-axis. Similarly, in the outer frame  11   c , a female screw portion  11   j,  a female screw portion  11   k  into which a feed screw  15  is screwed, and a notch portion  11   m  are provided on Y-axis. 
     A first adjustment screw  13  serving as a first adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion  11   i  of the intermediate frame  11   b  through the opening  11   h . Further, an adjustment screw  14  serving as a second adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion  11   j  of the outer frame  11   c . Incidentally, the adjustment screws  13  and  14  are slotted machine screws. 
     Additionally, similar to the case of the first embodiment, the initial lens optical axis position Z is set in such a way as to be slightly rightwardly and upwardly eccentric from the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, as viewed in FIG.  5 . 
     Next, an optical system position adjusting operation of the lens frame  10  of the second embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow. 
     First, when the lens frame  10 , in which the lens  12  is inserted thereinto, is to be adjusted, the lens frame  10  is supported by screwing the feed screw  15  into the female screw portion  11   k , and by inserting the guide shaft  16  into the notch portion  11   m,  as illustrated in FIG.  7 . 
     Then, adjustment screws  13  and  14  are inserted into the female screw portions  11   i  and  11   j.  Similarly as in the case of the first embodiment, the adjustment screws  13  and  14  are screwed thereinto by simultaneously observing a detection signal generated by a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion provided in the adjustment jig. Thus, the adjustment of the initial lens optical is performed by causing a micro-movement of the initial lens optical axis position Z to the adjustment target position of the optical axis O. Thereafter, the adjustment screws  13  and  14  are fixed to the female screw portions  11   i  and  11   j  by adhesives, thereby finishing the adjustment of the optical axis position Z. 
     Incidentally, the movement of the optical axis position Z at the time of the adjustment thereof is realized by deforming the parallel spring portions  11   d  and  11   e  in the direction of X-axis, and deforming the parallel spring portions  11   f  and  11   g  in the direction of Y-axis. Similarly, as in the case of the first embodiment, this deformation is synthesized from bending strain, which is caused due to the bending moment of the parallel spring portion, and shearing strain, which is caused owing to the shearing force thereof. 
     As described above, the lens frame  10  of the second embodiment has effects similar to those of the lens frame  9  of the first embodiment. Especially, the second embodiment can be applied to a lens frame employing the prism lens  12 . Consequently, the adjustment of the position of the optical system is achieved with high optical accuracy in a state in which the rotational displacement and inclination of the prism lens  12  are not caused. 
     Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel that is a third embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereunder. 
     FIG. 8 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the third embodiment. Further, FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken on line III-O-III of FIG.  8 . FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of this lens frame. 
     A lens frame  20  of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the position of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. This lens frame  20  is applied to a case that there is sufficient room in the direction of the optical axis. This lens frame  20  consists mainly of a lens frame body  21 , a lens  22 , which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body  21 , and cam followers  23 ,  24 , and  25 . This lens frame  20  is adapted so that the fine adjustment of the optical system position of the lens  22 , namely, the movement of the optical axis position Z of the lens  22  with respect to the lens frame body  21  to the lens optical axis position O, which is an adjustment target position, can be performed. Incidentally, an adjustment reference for adjustment of the optical axis position is an outside-diameter portion of the lens frame body  21 . 
     Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens  22  and orthogonal to each other. The “X-axis” and “Y-axis” pass through the center P 0  in the direction of the optical axis of the lens  22  and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions. 
     The lens frame body  21  is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects frames  21   a ,  21   b , and  21   c . A ring-like inner frame  21   a  serves as a holding member for holding the lens  22 , a ring-like intermediate frame  21   b  serves as a first support frame disposed so that the frame  21   b  surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame  21   a  and forms a gap between the frames  21   a  and  21   b , and a ring like outer frame  21   c  is disposed so that the frame  21   c  surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame  21   b  and forms a gap between the frames  21   b  and  21   c . Incidentally, the cam followers  23 ,  24 , and  25  are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame  21   c  is trisected. 
     The intermediate frame  21   b  and the outer frame  21   c  are connected by parallel spring portions  21   d  and  21   e , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with these frames  21   b  and  21   c , respectively. The parallel spring portions  21   f  and  21   g  are two laterally deformable plate-like first connecting portions extending rearwardly along a plane containing the optical axis O and X-axis. Incidentally, the spring portion  21   d  is divided into two parts arranged in an upward or downward direction. 
     Further, the inner frame  21   a  and the intermediate frame  21   b  are connected by parallel spring portions  21   f  and  21   g , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames  21   a  and  21   b . The parallel spring portions  21   f  and  21   g  are two deformable plate-like second connecting portions extending backwardly along a plane containing the optical axis O and Y-axis. 
     Incidentally, it is assumed that the parallel spring portions  21   d  and  21   e  can elastically deform in the direction of X-axis, while the parallel spring portions  21   f  and  21   g  can elastically deform in the direction of Y-axis. Further, these parallel springs are formed in such a way as to be relatively elongated in a direction in which these spring portions extend. Thus, when the inner frame  21   a  is pushed by the adjustment screws (to be described later) in the direction of X-axis or Y-axis, the spring portions deform so that the inner frame  21   a  performs translation (parallel displacement) without being inclined to the optical axis O. 
     In the outer frame  21   c , a female screw portion  21   i  is provided on X-axis. A female screw portion  21   j  is provided on Y-axis. A first adjustment screw  26  serving as a first adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion  21   i . Further, an adjustment screw  27  serving as a second adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion  21   j . Incidentally, the adjustment screws  26  and  27  are slotted machine screws. 
     Additionally, similar to the case of the first embodiment, in the case of the lens frame  20  of this embodiment, the initial lens optical axis position Z is set in such a way as to be slightly rightwardly and upwardly eccentric from the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, as viewed in FIG.  8 . The reason for setting the eccentricity amount in such a manner, similar to that in the case of the first embodiment, is that the adjustment should be performed in a state in which the adjustment screws are abutted against the abutting portion. 
     Next, an optical system position adjusting operation of the lens frame  20  of the third embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow. 
     First, the outer periphery of the outer frame  21   c  of the lens frame body  21 , to which the lenses  22  and the cam followers  23 ,  24 , and  25  are fitted, is held by an adjustment jig. Then, adjustment screws  26  and  27  are inserted into the female screw portions  21   i  and  21   j , respectively. Subsequently, the adjustment screws  26  and  27  are screwed thereinto by simultaneously observing a detection signal generated by a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion provided in the adjustment jig. Thus, the adjustment of the initial lens optical is performed by causing a micro-movement of the initial lens optical axis position Z to the adjustment target position of the optical axis O. Thereafter, the adjustment screws  26  and  27  are fixed to the female screw portions  21   i  and  21   j  by adhesives, thereby finishing the adjustment of the optical axis position Z. 
     As described above, the lens frame  20  of the third embodiment has advantageous effects similar to those of the first embodiment. Especially, the spring portion serving as a connecting portion is relatively elongated in a direction, in which the spring portion extends. Thus, the adjustment is accurately achieved in a wide range of the position of the lens optical axis O. 
     Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel that is a fourth embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereunder. 
     FIG. 11 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the fourth embodiment. Further, FIG. 12 is a sectional view taken on line IV-O-IV of FIG.  11 . FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of this lens frame. 
     A lens frame  30  of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the position of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. This lens frame  30  consists mainly of a lens frame body  31 , a lens  32 , which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body  31 , and cam followers  33 ,  34 , and  35 . This lens frame  30  is adapted so that the adjustment of the optical system position of the lens  32 , namely, the adjustment of the movement of the optical axis position Z of the lens  32  with respect to an adjustment reference (for example, an outside-diameter portion of the outer frame  31   c ) for the lens frame body  31  to the lens optical axis position O, which is an adjustment target position, can be performed. 
     Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens  32  and orthogonal to each other. The “X-axis” and “Y-axis” pass through the center P 0  in the direction of the optical axis of the lens  32  and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions. 
     The lens frame body  31  is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frames  31   a ,  31   b , and  31   c . A ring-like inner frame  31   a  serves as a holding member for holding the lens  32 , a ring-like intermediate frame  31   b  serves as a first support frame disposed so that the frame  31   b  surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame  31   a  and forms a gap between the frames  31   a  and  31   b , and a ring like outer frame  31   c  is disposed so that the frame  31   c  surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame  31   b  and forms a gap between the frames  31   b  and  31   c . Incidentally, the cam followers  33 ,  34 , and  35  are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame  31   c  is trisected. 
     The inner frame  31   a  and the intermediate frame  31   b  are connected by parallel spring portions  31   d  and  31   e , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames  31   a  and  31   b  and  31   c . The parallel spring portions  31   d  and  31   e  are deformable bending band-like first connecting portions that extend from laterally arranged positions on X-axis and on the front side of the inner frame  31   a  through the gap between the frames  31   a  and  31   b  and are connected to the rear face of the intermediate frame  31   b.    
     Further, the intermediate frame  31   b  and the outer frame  31   c  are connected by parallel spring portions  31   f  and  31   g , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames  31   b  and  31   c . The parallel spring portions  31   f  and  31   g  are two deformable band-like second connecting portions that extend from upwardly or downwardly arranged positions on Y-axis and on the front side of the intermediate frame  31   b  through the gap between the frames  31   b  and  31   c  and are connected to the back face of the outer frame  31   c.    
     Incidentally, it is assumed that the parallel spring portions  31   d  and  31   e  can elastically deform in the direction of X-axis, while the parallel spring portions  31   f  and  31   g  can elastically deform in the direction of Y-axis. Further, the parallel springs  31   d ,  31   e  and  31   f ,  31   g  have shapes that are symmetrical with respect to a plane containing X-axis or Y-axis, respectively. The parallel spring portions are formed so that when the abutting parts provided on the spring portions are pushed by the adjustment screws (to be described later) in the corresponding directions, the inner frame  31   a  or the intermediate frame  31   b  performs translation (parallel displacement) without being inclined to the optical axis O. 
     In the intermediate frame  31   b , a female screw portion  31   i  is provided on X-axis. In the outer frame  31   c , an adjustment opening  31   h  is provided at a place opposed to the position of the female screw portion. Further, in the outer frame  31   c , a female screw portion  31   j  is provided on Y-axis. 
     An adjustment screw  36  serving as a first adjusting member being capable of abutting against the spring portion  31   d  is screwed into the female screw portion  31   i . Further, an adjustment screw  37  serving as a second adjusting member capable of abutting against the spring portion  31   f  is screwed into the female screw portion  31   j . Incidentally, the adjustment screws  36  and  37  are slotted machine screws. 
     In the case of the lens frame  30  of this embodiment, similar to the case of the first embodiment, the initial lens optical axis position Z is set in such a way as to be slightly rightwardly and upwardly eccentric from the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, as viewed in FIG.  11 . The reason for setting such an eccentricity amount in such a manner, similar to that in the case of the first embodiment, is that the adjustment should be performed in a state in which the adjustment screws are abutted against the abutting portion. 
     Next, an optical system position adjusting operation of the lens frame  30  of the fourth embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow. 
     First, the outer periphery of the outer frame  31   c  of the lens frame body  31 , to which the lenses  32  and the cam followers  33 ,  34 , and  35  are fitted, is held by an adjustment jig. Then, adjustment screws  36  and  37  are inserted into the female screw portions  31   i  and  31   j . Subsequently, the adjustment screws  36  and  37  are screwed thereinto by simultaneously observing a detection signal generated by a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion provided in the adjustment jig. Thus, the adjustment of the initial lens optical is performed by causing a micro-movement of the initial lens optical axis position Z to the adjustment target position of the optical axis O. Thereafter, the adjustment screws  36  and  37  are fixed to the female screw portions  31   i  and  31   j  by adhesives, thereby finishing the adjustment of the optical axis position Z. Incidentally, the adjustment may be performed by incorporating the lens frame  30  into the lens barrel portion of the optical equipment. 
     As described above, the lens frame  30  of the fourth embodiment has advantageous effects similar to those of the lens frame  9  of the first embodiment. Especially, each of the spring portions serving as connecting portions employs a shape that is easily deformed. Thus, the adjustment of the optical system is accurately achieved in a wide range of the position of the lens optical axis O. 
     As described above, according to the first to fourth embodiments of the present invention, there are provided lens frames in which the optical system position adjustment of the optical members (namely, the centering thereof) is easily performed. 
     Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel of a fifth embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereinbelow. 
     FIG. 14 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the fifth embodiment. Further, FIG. 15 is a sectional view taken on line V-O-V of FIG.  14 . FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of this lens frame. 
     A lens frame  40  of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the posture of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. Further, the lens frame  40  consists mainly of a lens frame body  41 , a lens  42  which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body  41 , and cam followers  43 ,  44 , and  45  securely fixed on the periphery of the lens frame  41 . 
     This lens frame  40  is adapted so that the fine adjustment of the optical system posture of the lens  42 , namely, the inclination of the optical axis O of the lens  42  with respect to the lens frame body  41 , can be performed. Incidentally, in the case of this embodiment, an adjustment reference for adjustment of the optical axis posture is the outermost diameter (namely, the outside-diameter portion of the outer frame  41   c  (to be described later)) of the lens frame body  41 , and is selected according to a condition in which the lens frame is mounted in the optical equipment. 
     Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens  42  and orthogonal to each other. The “X-axis” and “Y-axis” pass through the center P 0  in the direction of the optical axis of the lens  42  and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions. Further, a point of intersection between X-axis and Y-axis is set to be a point of intersection among the axes of cylindrical portions  41   d ,  41   e ,  41   f , and  41   g , and denoted by “P 0 ”. Moreover, it is supposed that the surface side of the lens frame  40  on FIG. 14 (which, as viewed in FIG. 15, corresponds to the left-hand side thereof) is the “front side” thereof, and that the back side of the lens frame  40  of FIG. 14 (which, as viewed in FIG. 15, corresponds to the right-hand side thereof) is the “rear side” thereof. 
     The lens frame body  41  is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frames  41   a ,  41   b , and  41   c . A ring-like inner frame  41   a  serves as a holding member for holding the lens  42 , a ring-like intermediate frame  41   b  serves as a first support frame disposed so that the frame  41   b  surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame  41   a  and forms a gap between the frames  41   a  and  41   b , and a ring like outer frame  41   c  is disposed so that the frame  41   c  surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame  41   b  and forms a gap between the frames  41   b  and  41   c . Incidentally, the cam followers  43 ,  44 , and  45  are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame  41   c  is trisected. 
     The inner frame  41   a  and the intermediate frame  41   b  are connected by cylindrical portions  41   d  and  41   e , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames  41   a  and  41   b . Cylindrical portions  41   d  and  41   e  are torsionally deformable first connecting portions extending upwardly and downwardly on Y-axis. 
     Further, the intermediate frame  41   b  and the outer frame  41   c  are connected by cylindrical portions  41   f  and  41   g , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames  41   b  and  41   c . Cylindrical portions are torsionally deformable second connecting portions extending laterally on X-axis. Incidentally, the cylindrical portions  41   d ,  41   e  and  41   f ,  41   g  are disposed along Y-axis or X-axis, respectively, in such a manner as to be symmetric with the optical axis center. 
     Further, in the intermediate frame  41   b , a female screw portion  41   k  and a notch portion  41   n  are provided on the right-hand side, as viewed in FIG. 14, and arranged in a direction parallel to the optical axis O and across X-axis. Furthermore, in the outer frame  41   c , a female screw portion  41   m  and a notch portion  41   p  are provided on the upper side of the frame, as viewed in this figure, and arranged in a direction parallel to the optical axis O and across Y-axis. Moreover, a notch portion  41   q  (which is necessary for forming the lens frame  40 ) is provided in an outwardly radial direction of the notch portion  41   n.    
     A first adjustment screw  46  serving as a first adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion  41   k  of the intermediate frame  41   b  through the opening  41   h . Further, an adjustment screw  47  serving as a second adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion  41   m  of the outer frame  41   c . Incidentally, the adjustment screws  46  and  47  are slotted machine screws. 
     Furthermore, the inner frame  41   a  is provided with a plate-like projection portion  41   i , which serves as a pressed portion projecting in the direction of X-axis to a place opposed to the female screw portion  41   k  of the intermediate frame  41   b , in a right-hand side part of the outer peripheral portion thereof. Similarly, the intermediate frame  41   b  is provided with a plate-like projection portion  41   j , which serves as a pressed portion projecting in the direction of Y-axis to a place opposed to the female screw portion  41   m  of the outer frame  41   c  and upwardly from the outer peripheral portion thereof. 
     The plate-like projection portions  41   i  and  41   j  can be pressed by the adjustment screws  46  and  47  screwed from a direction parallel to the optical axis O. When the plate-like projection portions  41   i  and  41   j  are pressed in the direction of the optical axis O, a direction (or inclination) α indicating the optical system position (or posture) of the optical axis of the lens  22  changes. 
     Incidentally, as viewed in FIG. 16, an initial direction α z  of the optical axis of the lens  42  (namely, the inclination thereof in an initial state) is set so that the direction of the point of intersection of X′-axis and Y′-axis is deviated from the direction α 0  (namely, the degree of inclination is 0) of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position. The X′-intercept is X 1 ′, which is negative, and Y′-intercept is Y 1 ′, which is negative, on X′Y′-plane. Additionally, X′-axis and Y′-axis are obtained by translation of X-axis and Y-axis along the optical axis O, respectively. 
     Further, in this figure, an angle θ R  formed between two lateral edges of a quadrangular prism having a lateral edge extending in the initial direction α z  of the optical axis indicates an adjustment range (or adjustment limit). When the adjustment is performed within this adjustment range θ R , a state, in which the end faces of the screwed adjustment screws  46  and  47  are abutted against the plate-like projection portions  41   i  and  41   j , is maintained. Moreover, the cylindrical portions  41   d ,  41   e ,  41   f  and  41   g  deform within a natural range. Consequently, high-accuracy adjustment can be achieved. 
     Next, an optical system inclination adjusting operation of the lens frame  40  of the fifth embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow. 
     First, when the lens frame  40  alone is to be adjusted, the outer periphery of the outer frame  41   c  of the lens frame body  41 , to which the lens  42  and the cam followers  43 ,  44 , and  45  are fitted, is held by an adjustment jig. Then, adjustment screws  46  and  47  are inserted into the female screw portions  41   k  and  41   m . The adjustment screws  46  and  47  are screwed thereinto from a direction parallel to the direction of the optical axis by simultaneously observing a detection signal generated by a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion provided in the adjustment jig. Thus, the cylindrical portions  41   d ,  41   e ,  41   f , and  41   g  are deformed so that the optical axis is swung. Consequently, the initial lens optical axis direction α z , is adjusted and changed into the adjustment target direction α 0  of the optical axis O. During the adjustment, the cylindrical portions  41   d ,  41   e , or  41   f ,  41   g  are simply distorted, and the center P 0  hardly moves, because the cylindrical portions are disposed on Y-axis and X-axis in a symmetrical manner, as described above. 
     Upon completion of the adjustment, the adjustment screws  46  and  47  are fixed to the female screw portions  41   i  and  41   j  by adhesives, thereby finishing the adjustment. 
     Furthermore, as illustrated in the exploded perspective diagram of FIG. 17, in the case that the adjustment of the lens frame  40  is performed in a state in which the frame  40  is incorporated into a rectilinear cam ring  48  or a rotational cam ring  49 , the lens frame body  41 , into which the lens  42  is incorporated, is mounted in the rectilinear cam ring  48 . Moreover, the cam followers  43 ,  44 , and  45  are inserted into guide grooves  48   a ,  48   b , and  48   c , respectively. Thus, the lens frame  40  is securely fixed to the outer frame  41   c . Furthermore, the cam followers  43 ,  44 , and  45  are fitted into the cam grooves  49   a ,  49   b , and  49   c , respectively, so that the rotational cam ring  49  is mounted in the rectilinear cam ring  48 . In such a state, the adjustment is performed by regulating the screwing depth of the adjustment screws  46  and  47  to be screwed from the direction parallel to the optical axis O, similarly as in the case of adjusting the aforementioned lens frame singly. 
     As described above, in the case of the lens frame  40  of the fifth embodiment, the lens frame body  41  has an integral structure, and thus has a simple configuration. Moreover, the adjustment of the inclination of the lens optical axis direction α is performed by screwing two adjustment screws  46  and  47  from the direction of the optical axis O. Therefore, needless to say, when the single lens frame is used, and even in the case when a cam ring mounting is incorporated, the adjustment is easily achieved without providing adjustment openings therein. In addition, the cylindrical portions  41   d ,  41   e ,  41   f  and  41   g  deform at the time of the adjustment and are disposed on X-axis or Y-axis, so that even when the adjustment of the inclination of the optical axis a is performed, the position of the cylindrical portions hardly change. Consequently, a high-optical-accuracy lens frame is obtained. 
     Incidentally, in the case of the lens frame  40  of this embodiment, the cylindrical portions  41   d ,  41   e  or  41   f ,  41   g  mainly cause elastic distortion around X-axis or Y-axis during the adjustment. However, if readjustment of the lens frame is not performed, the cylindrical portions may utilize not only elastic deformation but also plastic deformation. 
     Furthermore, prism-like portions placed along Y-axis or X-axis may be employed instead of the cylindrical portions  41   d ,  41   e ,  41   f , and  41   g . Further, the lens frame body  41  does not always have an integral structure. For instance, the lens frame may employ a structure in which the inner frame  41   a ,  41   b , and  41   c  are formed in such a way as to be separated by the cylindrical portions serving as the connecting portions, and each of the cylindrical portions is fitted into a corresponding frame element. In this case, there is the necessity for the conditions in which the adjustment screws are provided in the adjustment jig instead of the lens frame, and that the fitting portions of the cylindrical portions are bonded and fixed after the adjustment. 
     Further, even if the lens  42  and the lens frame body  41  are formed in such a way as to be integral with each other, the optical system posture adjusting structure of the aforementioned embodiment may be applied to such a lens frame. Additionally, screws having locking functions may be employed as the adjustment screws  46  and  47 . This eliminates the need for an adhesion operation performed in the aforementioned embodiment after the adjustment. 
     Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel of a sixth embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereinbelow. 
     FIG. 18 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the sixth embodiment. Further, FIG. 19 is a sectional view taken on line VI-O-VI of FIG.  18 . FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of this lens frame. 
     A lens frame  50  of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the posture of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. Further, the lens frame  50  consists mainly of a lens frame body  51 , a lens  52 , which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body  51 , and cam followers  53 ,  54 , and  55  securely fixed on the outer periphery of the lens frame  51 . 
     Similarly as in the case of the fifth embodiment, this lens frame  50  is adapted so that the fine adjustment of the optical system posture of the lens  52 , namely, the inclination of the optical axis O of the lens  52  with respect to the lens frame body  51  can be performed. 
     Incidentally, similarly as in the case of the fifth embodiment, it is supposed in this embodiment that “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens  52  and orthogonal to each other. The “X-axis” and “Y-axis” pass through the center P 0  in the direction of the optical axis of the lens  52  and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions. Further, a point of intersection between X-axis and Y-axis is set to be a point of intersection among the axes of cylindrical portions  51   d ,  51   e ,  51   f , and  51   g , and denoted by “P 0 ”. Moreover, it is assumed that the surface side of the lens frame  50  of FIG. 18 (which, as viewed in FIG. 19, corresponds to the left-hand side thereof) is the “front side” thereof, and that the back side of the lens frame  50  of FIG. 18 (which, as viewed in FIG. 19, corresponds to the right-hand side thereof) is the “rear side” thereof. 
     The lens frame body  51  is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frames  51   a ,  51   b , and  51   c . A ring-like inner frame  51   a  serves as a holding member for holding the lens  52 , a ring-like intermediate frame  51   b  serves as a first support frame disposed so that the frame  51   b  surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame  51   a  and forms a gap between the frames  51   a  and  51   b , and a ring like outer frame  51   c  is disposed so that the frame  51   c  surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame  51   b  and forms a gap between the frames  51   b  and  51   c . Incidentally, the cam followers  53 ,  54 , and  55  are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame  51   c  is trisected. 
     Similarly as in the case of the fifth embodiment, the inner frame  51   a  and the intermediate frame  51   b  are connected by cylindrical portions  51   d  and  51   e , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with these frames  51   a  and  51   b.  The cylindrical portions  51   d  and  51   e  are torsionally deformable first connecting portions extending upwardly and downwardly on Y-axis. 
     Further, the intermediate frame  51   b  and the outer frame  51   c  are connected by cylindrical portions  51   f  and  51   g , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames  51   b  and  51   c . The cylindrical portions  51   f  and  51   g  are torsionally deformable second connecting portions extending laterally on X-axis. Incidentally, the cylindrical portions  51   d ,  51   e  and  51   f ,  51   g  are disposed on Y-axis or X-axis, respectively, in such a manner as to be symmetric with the optical axis center. 
     Further, in the intermediate frame  51   b,  a female screw portion  51   k  is provided on the right-hand part of the outer periphery, as viewed in FIG. 18, and arranged along X-axis. Furthermore, in the outer frame  51   c , a female screw portion  51   m  is provided on the upper-side outer periphery of the frame, as viewed in this figure, and arranged along Y-axis. Incidentally, a notch portion  51   n , through which an adjustment screw passes, is provided in a portion opposed to the female screw portion  51   k  of the outer frame  51   c.    
     An adjustment screw  56  serving as a first adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion  51   k  of the intermediate frame  51   b  through the opening  51   n.  Further, an adjustment screw  57  serving as a second adjusting member is screwed into the female screw portion  51   m  of the outer frame  51   c . Incidentally, the adjustment screws  56  and  57  are slotted machine screws. 
     Furthermore, the inner frame  51   a  is provided with a projection portion  51   i , which serves as a pressed portion projecting in the direction of X-axis to a place opposed to the female screw portion  51   k  of the intermediate frame  51   b . The projection portion  51   i  has a rear-side inclined surface in the outward and forward direction of X-axis, in a right-hand side part of the outer peripheral portion thereof. Similarly, the intermediate frame  51   b  is provided with a projection portion  51   j , which serves as a pressed portion projecting in the direction of Y-axis to a place opposed to the female screw portion  51   m  of the outer frame  51   c  and upwardly from the outer peripheral portion thereof. The projection portion  51   j  has a front-side inclined surface inclined in the outward and rearward direction of Y-axis. 
     The inclined surface of the inclined projection portions  51   i  and  51   j  can be pressed by the tip ends of the adjustment screws  56  and  57  screwed from the directions of X-axis and Y-axis, respectively. When the projection portions  51   i  and  51   j  are pressed, the intermediate frame  51   b  and the outer frame  51   c  are rotated around Y-axis and X-axis by minute angles, respectively, through the inclined surfaces thereof. Thus, the optical axis direction α of the lens  52  changes. 
     Incidentally, an initial direction α z  of the optical axis of the lens  52  (namely, the inclination thereof in an initial state) is set so that the direction of the point of intersection of X′-axis and Y′-axis is deviated from the direction α 0  (namely, the degree of inclination is 0°) of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, as viewed in FIG. 20, and that X′-intercept is X 1 ′, which is positive, and Y′-intercept is Y 1 ′, which is negative, on X′Y′-plane. 
     Further, in this figure, an angle θ R  formed between two lateral edges of a quadrangular prism having a lateral edge extending in the initial direction α z  of the optical axis indicates an adjustment range. When the adjustment is performed within this adjustment range θ R , a state in which the end faces of the screwed adjustment screws  56  and  57  are abutted against the plate-like projection portions  51   i  and  51   j , respectively, is maintained. Moreover, the cylindrical portions  51   d ,  51   e ,  51   f , and  51   g  deform within a natural range. Consequently, high-accuracy adjustment can be attained. 
     Next, an optical system inclination adjusting operation of the lens frame  50  of the sixth embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow. 
     Although the adjusting operation of the lens frame  50  of this embodiment is nearly the same as of the lens frame of the fifth embodiment, the former adjusting operation differs from the latter adjusting operation in the direction in which the adjustment screws  56  and  57  are inserted and screwed into the lens frame  50 . That is, when the lens frame  50  alone is adjusted the adjustment screws  56  and  57  are screwed thereinto from the directions of X-axis and Y-axis, respectively. Further, the optical axis O is swung by controlling the screwing depth of each of the adjustment screws  56  and  57 . Thus, the initial lens optical axis direction (or inclination) α z  is adjusted to the adjustment target direction α 0  (namely, the degree of the optical axis angle is 0) of the optical axis O. During the adjustment, the center P 0  does not move for the same reason as described in the description of the fifth embodiment. 
     FIG. 21 illustrates a state in which the lens frame  50  is incorporated into a rectilinear cam ring  58 , and further into a rotational cam ring  59 . When the adjustment of the lens frame  50  is performed in this incorporated state, the adjustment screws  56  and  57  are screwed from the directions D 3  and D 4  along X-axis and Y-axis through adjustment openings  59   d ,  58   d , and  59   e ,  58   e  of the cam rings  58  and  59 , respectively. Then, the screwing depth of each of the screws  56  and  57  is controlled. Thereafter, an operation similar to that in the case of adjusting the lens frame alone is performed. 
     The lens frame  50  of the sixth embodiment obtains advantageous effects similar to those of the lens frame  40  of the fifth embodiment. Moreover, the lens frame  50  can perform the adjustment of the inclination of the optical axis O of the lens  52  from a direction orthogonal to the optical axis O, and thus has another advantageous effect in that the adjustment is more easily performed in a state in which the lens frame  50  is incorporated into the cam ring. 
     As described above, each of the lens frames of the fifth and sixth embodiments has a simple structure. Moreover, the adjustment of the optical system posture can be performed by swinging the optical axis of each of the optical members, such as the lens and the prism. In the case of these lens frames, even when the optical axis is swung, there is extremely small change in position of the optical axis center. Consequently, the posture can be adjusted with good accuracy. 
     Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel of a seventh embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereinbelow. 
     FIG. 22 is a plan view of the lens frame that is this embodiment. Further, FIGS.  23 (A) and  23 (B) are a sectional view taken on line VII-O-VII of FIG. 22 and a sectional view taken on line VIII-O-VIII. FIG. 24 is a perspective view of this lens frame. 
     A lens frame  60  of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the position and posture of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. Further, the lens frame  60  consists mainly of a lens frame body  61 , a lens  62 , which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body  61 , cam followers  63   a ,  63   b , and  63   c  securely fixed on the periphery of the lens frame  61 , and adjustment screws  65 ,  66 ,  67 , and  68 , which serve as adjusting members for adjustment of the position and posture of the optical system. 
     This lens frame  60  is adapted so that the adjustment for correcting variation in the optical axis when the lens  62  is mounted in the lens frame body  61 , namely, the position and posture of the optical system of the lens  62 , that is, both of the adjustment of the optical axis position in a direction orthogonal to the lens optical axis O and the adjustment of the direction (or inclination) of the optical axis O of the lens  62 , can be performed. Incidentally, in the case of this embodiment, an adjustment reference for adjustment of the optical axis posture is, for example, the outside-diameter portion of the lens frame body  61 , and is selected according to a condition in which the lens frame  60  is mounted in the optical equipment. 
     Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens  62  and orthogonal to each other and which correspond to horizontal and vertical directions. Further, a point of intersection between X-axis and Y-axis is denoted by “P 0 ”, which is nearly equivalent to a point of intersection among the axes of cylindrical portions  61   d ,  61   e ,  61   f , and  61   g . However, strictly speaking, because of structural necessity, the axis center of each of the cylindrical portions  61   f  and  61   g  differs slightly from those in the direction of the optical axis of the cylindrical portions  61   d  and  61   e . Furthermore, it is assumed that the surface side of the lens frame  60  of FIG. 22, (which, as viewed in FIG.  23 (A), corresponds to the left-hand side thereof) is the “front side” thereof, and that the back side of the lens frame  60  of FIG. 22 (which, as viewed in FIG.  23 (A), corresponds to the right-hand side thereof) is the “rear side” thereof. 
     The lens frame body  61  is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frame portions  61   a ,  61   b , and  61   c . A ring-like inner frame  61   a  serves as a holding member (namely, a first frame portion) for holding the lens  62 , a ring-like intermediate frame  61   b  serves as a first support frame (namely, a second frame portion) disposed so that the frame  61   b  surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame  61   a  and forms a gap between the frames  61   a  and  61   b , and a ring like outer frame  61   c  (namely, a third frame portion) serves as a second support frame disposed so that the frame  61   c  surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame  61   b  and forms a gap between the frames  61   b  and  61   c . Incidentally, the cam followers  63   a ,  63   b , and  63   c  are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame  61   c  is trisected. 
     The inner frame  61   a  and the intermediate frame  61   b  are connected by cylindrical portions  61   f  and  61   g , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames  61   a  and  61   b . Cylindrical portions  61   f  and  61   g  are elastically deformable first connecting portions (namely, a translation mechanism and an inclination adjusting mechanism) extending across the optical axis and extending laterally on X 1 -axis (as viewed in FIG.  23 (B)) which is extremely close and parallel to X-axis. Incidentally, a point of intersection between X 1 -axis and the optical axis O is denoted by “P 1 ”. 
     Further, the intermediate frame  61   b  and the outer frame  61   c  are connected by cylindrical portions  61   d  and  61   e , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with the frames  61   b  and  61   c . Cylindrical portions  61   d  and  61   e  are torsionally deformable second connecting portions (namely, a translation mechanism and an inclination adjusting mechanism) extending upwardly and downwardly on Y-axis. 
     Further, in the intermediate frame  61   b , female screw portions  61   n  and  61   k  are provided in such a manner as to be opposed to each other and extend along Y 1 -axis (see FIG.  23 (A)), which is orthogonal to the X 1 -axis. The X 1 -axis is the axis center of each of the cylindrical portions  61   f  and  61   g , and passes through the point of intersection P 1 . 
     Incidentally, to avoid the interference between the female screw portions  61   n  and  61   k  and the cylinder portions  61   d  and  61   e , Y 1 -axis, which is the axis center of each of the female screw portions  61   n  and  61   k , and X 1 -axis, which is orthogonal thereto, are slightly deviated in the direction of the optical axis O from Y-axis and X-axis, respectively, as described above. 
     In the outer frame  61   c , female screw portions  61   m  and  61   j  are provided in such a manner as to extend along and to be opposed to X-axis. Moreover, notch portions  61   q  and  61   p , through which adjustment screws  66  and  68  pass, are provided at places to be opposed to the female screw portions  61   k  and  61   n  of the intermediate frame  61   b.    
     First adjustment screws  66  and  68  serving as first adjusting members are screwed into the female screw portions  61   k  and  61   n  of the intermediate frame  61   b , respectively. Further, adjustment screws  65  and  67  serving as second adjusting members are screwed into the female screw portions  61   j  and  61   m  of the outer frame  61   c . Incidentally, the adjustment screws  65  and  66  are flat-point-like slotted machine screws, and the adjustment screws  67  and  68  are slotted machine screws each having a conical end. 
     Furthermore, the inner frame  61   a  is provided with an inclined projection portion  61   i , which serves as an inclination adjusting mechanism projecting to a place opposed to the female screw portion  61   n  of an upper part of the outer peripheral portion of the inner frame  61   a  and inclining outwardly, radially and backwardly on Y 1 -axis, in a right-hand side part of the outer peripheral portion thereof. Further, similarly, the intermediate frame  61   b  is provided with an inclined projection portion  61   h , which serves as an inclined portion outwardly that projects to a place opposed to the female screw portion  61   m  of the outer frame  61   c  and upwardly from the outer peripheral portion thereof, and that extends on the X-axis and inclines backwardly and outwardly. 
     Additionally, the initial lens optical axis position Pa is set (see FIG. 22) in such a way as to be slightly rightwardly and downwardly eccentric from the position Po of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position. Further, an initial lens optical axis direction Da (namely, the inclination of the optical axis) inclines rightwardly and downwardly to the optical axis direction D 0  (that is, the angle of inclination of the optical axis is 0), which is a target direction of adjustment, at the light incidence side (see a perspective view of FIG.  24 ). The reason for setting such predetermined initial eccentricity and inclination at predetermined values is to perform adjustment by maintaining a state in which the adjustment screws  65 ,  66 ,  67  and  68  are screwed thereinto and which end faces of these screws are abutted against the frame outside-diameter surface and the inclined projection portion  61   h  and  61   i.    
     Next, optical system position and posture adjusting operations of the lens frame  60  of the seventh embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow. 
     Such adjustment operations are performed by using an adjustment jig consisting of, for example, a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion. Further, the point light source portion is set at a light incidence side, while the CCD portion is set at a light output side. Then, the adjustment is performed by detecting the inclination and position of the optical axis at the light output side according to optical axis detection signals outputted from the CCD portion. 
     In the case that the adjustment is performed only by the lens frame  60 , the adjustment screws  65 ,  66 ,  67 , and  68  are screwed in the female screw portions. Then, the screwing depth of each of these screws is controlled. Subsequently, the inclination of the optical axis is adjusted according to the detection outputs of the CCD portions. Then, the position of the optical axis is adjusted. 
     First, the adjustment screw  68  is screwed in the female screw portion  61   n  of the intermediate frame  61   b . Then, the inclined surface of the inclined projection portion  61   i  of the inner frame  61   a  is pushed by the tip end of the adjustment screw, causing the cylindrical portions  61   f  and  61   g  elastically to deform. Further, the inner frame  61   a  is inclined clockwise (as viewed from the right-hand direction in FIG. 24) to a direction (+θ x ). 
     Moreover, the adjustment screw  67  is screwed in the female screw portion  61   m  of the outer frame  61   c . Then, the inclined surface of the inclined projection portion  61   h  of the intermediate frame  61   b  is pushed by the tip end of the adjustment screw, the cylindrical portions  61   d  and  61   e  elastically deform owing to distortion. Furthermore, the intermediate frame  61   b  is inclined clockwise (as viewed from above in FIG. 24) to a direction (+θ y ) Thus, the direction or inclination of the optical axis is adjusted to the target direction D 0  of the optical axis by inclining the frame portion in both the directions. 
     Subsequently, the adjustment screw  66  is screwed in the female screw portion  61   k  of the intermediate frame  61   b . Thereafter, when a part placed on Y 1 -axis in a lower portion of the inner frame  61   a  is pressed, the cylindrical portions  61   f  and  61   g  cause shearing or bending elastic distortion so that the inner frame  61   a  and the lens  62  perform translation (parallel displacement) upwardly along Y 1 -axis without being inclined. 
     Then, the adjustment screw  65  is screwed in the female spring portion  61   j  of the outer frame  61   c . Thereafter, when an upper right part of the outer peripheral portion of the intermediate frame  61   b , which is placed on X-axis, is pushed, the cylindrical portions  61   d  and  61   e  cause shearing or bending elastic distortion so that the intermediate frame  61   b  and the lens  62  perform translation leftwardly in the direction of X-axis without being inclined. The aforementioned translations performed in both of the two directions enables the displacement of the optical axis position from the initial lens optical axis position Pa to the target position P o  of the optical axis O. 
     Thereafter, the adjustment screws are fixed by adhesives. Thus, the adjustment of the position and posture of the optical system is finished. 
     Next, a description is given about an operation of adjusting the position and posture of the optical system of the lens frame  60  of the seventh embodiment put in a state in which the lens frame  60  is incorporated into the cam ring. 
     FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of a lens barrel in which the lens frame  60  is incorporated into a rectilinear cam ring  71  that can be incorporated into a rotational cam ring  72 . 
     The lens frame  60  is incorporated into the rectilinear cam ring  71  and the rotational cam ring  72  in a state in which the cam followers  63   a ,  63   b , and  63   c  are slidably fitted into rectilinear grooves  71   a ,  71   b , and  71   c  and cam grooves  72   a ,  72   b , and  72   c  of the rotational cam ring  72 . The adjustment screws  65 ,  66 ,  67 , and  68 , are screwed through adjustment openings  71   d ,  71   e ,  71   f , and  71   g  formed correspondingly to four directions from the rectilinear cam ring  71  and adjustment openings  72   d ,  72   e ,  72   f , and  72   g  formed correspondingly to four directions from the rotational cam ring. In the case that the adjustment of the lens frame  60  is performed in a state in which the lens frame  60  is incorporated into the cam rings as described above, the screwing depth of these adjustment screws is controlled. Thus, the inclination and position of the optical axis are adjusted to the target values of the inclination and position thereof. 
     In the case of the lens frame  60  of the seventh embodiment, the lens frame body  61  has a simple integral structure. The adjustment of both the position and inclination of the optical axis orthogonal to the optical axis O of the lens  62  is achieved. The position of the optical axis and the inclination thereof may be performed nearly independently and individually. Consequently, an adjusting operation is easily performed. 
     Incidentally, in the case of the lens frame  60  of this embodiment, the deformation caused in the cylindrical portions  61   d ,  61   e  or  61   f ,  61   g  is essentially elastic deformation, such as distortion utilizing shearing distortion, unidirectional shearing, and bending. However, if readjustment of the lens frame is not performed, adjustment utilizing plastic deformation may be performed. Furthermore, although the adjustment of the position of the optical axis is performed after the adjustment of the inclination of the optical axis in this embodiment, the order of performing the adjustment of the position and inclination of the optical axis is not limited thereto. 
     Next, a lens frame, which is a lens barrel of an eighth embodiment of the present invention, will be described hereinbelow. 
     FIG. 26 is a plan view of the lens frame that is the eighth embodiment. Further, FIG. 27 is a sectional view taken on line IX—IX of FIG.  26 . FIG. 28 is a sectional view taken on line XI—XI of FIG.  26 . 
     FIG. 29 is a perspective view of this lens frame mounted in an optical device. 
     A lens frame  80  of this embodiment is a lens barrel, or a lens frame adapted so that the position and posture of an optical system incorporated into optical equipment is adjustable. Further, the lens frame  80  consists mainly of a lens frame body  81 , a lens  82 , which serves as an optical member (namely, an optical device) held in the lens frame body  81 , adjustment screws  85 ,  86 ,  87 ,  88 , and  89 , which serve as adjusting members for adjustment of the position of the optical system, a feed screw  91  for driving the lens frame body  81  in such a manner as to proceed and retreat along the optical axis, and a guide shaft  92  for guiding the guide shaft  92  along the optical axis. 
     This lens frame  80  is adapted so that the adjustment for correcting variation in the optical axis when the lens  82  is mounted in the lens frame body  81 , namely, the position and posture of the optical system of the lens  82  can be performed. That is, both of the adjustment (or the translation) of the optical axis position in a direction orthogonal to the lens optical axis O and the adjustment of the direction (or posture) of the optical axis O of the lens  82  can be performed. Incidentally, in the case of this embodiment, adjustment references for the adjustment are the feed screw  91  ad the guide shaft  92  for supporting the lens frame. 
     Incidentally, the “X-axis” and “Y-axis” respectively denote axes that are perpendicular to the optical axis O of the lens  92  and orthogonal to each other and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. Further, a point of intersection between X-axis and Y-axis is denoted by “P 0 ”, which is nearly equivalent to a point of intersection among the axes of cylindrical portions  81   d ,  81   e ,  81   f , and  81   g . However, strictly speaking, the axis center of each of the cylindrical portions  81   g  and  81   f  differs slightly from those in the direction of the optical axis of the cylindrical portions  81   d  and  81   e , owing to the structural necessity. 
     Furthermore, it is supposed that the surface side of the lens frame  80  of FIG. 26, which corresponds to this side of paper on which FIG. 26 is drawn, is the “front side” and that the back side of FIG. 26, which corresponds to the back side of the paper, is the “rear side” of the lens frame  80 . 
     The lens  82  is an L-shaped complex curved lens, and constituted by an incidence-side lens block  82   a  and an output-side lens block  82   b . Let “O” denote an incidence-side optical axis of the incidence-side lens block  82   a . Further, let “O′” designate an output-side optical axis of the output-side lens block  82   b . The optical axis O′ is parallel with and spaced apart from the optical axis O by a predetermined distance. 
     The lens frame body  81  is an integral member in which a connecting portion (to be described later) connects the frame portions  81   a ,  81   b , and  81   c . A ring-like inner frame  81   a  serves as a holding member (namely, a first frame portion) for holding the lens  82 , a ring-like intermediate frame  81   b  serves as a first support frame (namely, a second frame portion) disposed so that the frame  81   b  surrounds the outer periphery of the inner frame  81   a  and forms a gap between the frames  81   a  and  81   b , and a ring like outer frame  81   c  (namely, a third frame portion) serves as a second support frame disposed so that the frame  81   c  surrounds the outer periphery of the intermediate frame  81   b  and forms a gap between the frames  81   b  and  81   c.    
     The inner frame  81   a  and the intermediate frame  81   b  are connected by cylindrical portions  81   f  and  81   g , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with these frames  81   a  and  81   b . Cylindrical portions  81   f  and  81   g  are elastically deformable first connecting portions (namely, a translation (parallel displacement) mechanism and an inclination adjusting mechanism) extending across the optical axis and extending laterally on X 1 -axis (as viewed in FIG.  28 ), which is close and parallel to X-axis. Incidentally, a point of intersection between X 1 -axis and the optical axis O is denoted by “P 1 ”. 
     Further, the intermediate frame  81   b  and the outer frame  81   c  are connected by cylindrical portions  81   d  and  81   e , which are formed in such a way as to be integral with these frames  81   b  and  81   c . Cylindrical portions  81   d  and  81   e  are elastically deformable second connecting portions (namely, a translation (parallel displacement) mechanism and an inclination adjusting mechanism) extending upwardly and downwardly on Y-axis. 
     Further, in the intermediate frame  81   b , female screw portions  81   n  and  81   k  are opposed to each other and extend along Y 1 -axis (see FIG.  27 ). The Y 1 -axis is orthogonal to the X 1 -axis. The X 1 -axis is the axis center of each of the cylindrical portions  81   f  and  81   g , and passes through the point of intersection P 1 . Further, an adjustment screw abutting portion  81   r  is provided on an upper right side surface of the female screw portion  81   n  of the intermediate portion  81   r.    
     Incidentally, to avoid the interference between the female screw portions  81   n  and  81   k  and the cylinder portions  81   d  and  81   e , Y 1 -axis, which is the axis center of each of the female screw portions  81   n  and  81   k , and X 1 -axis, which is orthogonal thereto, are slightly deviated in the direction of the optical axis O from Y-axis and X-axis, respectively, as described above. 
     In the outer frame  81   c , female screw portions  81   m  and  81   j  extend along the X-axis and are opposed to one another. Moreover, notch portions  81   q  and  81   p , through which adjustment screws pass, are opposed to the female screw portions  81   k  and  81   n  of the intermediate frame  81   b . Furthermore, in the outer frame  81   c , a female screw portion  81   s  is provided in an upper right portion thereof to a horizontal direction parallel to X-axis. Further, a female portion  81   t , in which a feed screw  91  is screwed, is provided at a lower right part of the outer frame  81   c . Moreover, a notch portion  81   u , into which the guide shaft  92  is fitted, is provided at a left upper part of the outer frame  81   c.    
     First adjustment screws  86  and  88  which serve as first adjusting members, are screwed into the female screw portions  81   k  and  81   n  of the intermediate frame  81   b , respectively. Further, adjustment screws  85  and  87  which serve as second adjusting members, are screwed into the female screw portions  81   j  and  81   m  of the outer frame  81   c . Likewise, an adjustment screw  89  which serves as a third adjusting member, is screwed into the female screw portion  81   s  of the outer frame  81   c . Incidentally, the adjustment screws  85 ,  86 , and  89  are flat-point-like slotted machine screws, and the adjustment screws  87  and  88  are slotted machine screws each having a conical end. 
     Furthermore, the inner frame  81   a  is provided with an inclined projection portion  81   i , which serves as an inclination adjusting mechanism projecting to a place opposed to the female screw portion  81   n  of an upper part of the outer peripheral portion of the inner frame  81   a  and inclining outwardly, radially and backwardly on Y 1 -axis (see FIG.  27 ). Further, similarly, the intermediate frame  81   b  includes an inclined projection portion  81   h  on its outer peripheral surface (see FIG. 28) having an inclining surface opposed to the female screw portion  81   m  of the outer frame  81   c.    
     In a state in which the position and posture of the optical system are unadjusted just upon completion of assembling the lens frame  80  of this eighth embodiment, the initial lens optical axis position Pa is set (see FIGS. 26 and 29) parallel to the optical axis O and as to be slightly rightwardly and downwardly eccentric from the position P 0  of the optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position. Further, an initial lens optical axis direction D 0  (namely, the inclination of the optical axis) inclines rightwardly and downwardly to the optical axis direction D 0  (that is, the angle of inclination of the optical axis is 0), which is a target direction of adjustment, at the light incidence side (see a perspective view of FIG.  29 ). Furthermore, the direction of the initial lens inclination Ea (corresponding to the lateral deviation of the optical axis O′) around the optical axis O of the lens is slightly clockwise turned from an adjustment target direction E 0  (which coincides with the direction of Y′-axis) around the optical axis O. 
     The reason for setting each of such predetermined initial eccentricity and inclination at a predetermined value corresponding to a predetermined direction is to perform adjustment by maintaining a state in which the adjustment screws  85 ,  86 ,  87  and  88 ,  89  are screwed thereinto and which end faces of these screws are abutted against the outside-diameter surface of the frame and the inclined projection portion  81   h  and  81   i  and a screw abutting surface  81   r.    
     Next, optical system position and posture adjusting operations of the lens frame  80  of the eighth embodiment constructed as described above will be described hereinbelow. 
     Such adjustment operations are performed by using an adjustment jig consisting of, for example, a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion. The CCD portion is set on a light-output-side optical axis O′ of FIGS. 27 and 28. The adjustment is performed by taking into consideration the relative positional relation between the optical axis O and the CCD portion. 
     In the lens frame  80  of this embodiment, the adjustment of the position and posture of the optical system is performed by supporting the lens frame body  81  by the feed screw  91  and the guide shaft  92 . First, the adjustment screws  85 ,  86 ,  87 ,  88 , and  89  are screwed in the female screw portions. Then, the screwing depth of each of these adjustment screws is controlled. Thus, the adjustment of the inclination of the lens  82  around the optical axis O is first performed. Subsequently, the adjustment (translation) of the position of the optical axis of the lens  82  is performed. 
     Particularly, first, the adjustment screw  89  is screwed in the female screw portion  81   n  of the intermediate frame  81   b . Subsequently, shearing or bending elastic deformation is caused in the cylindrical portions  81   d  and  81   e  by pressing the adjustment screw abutting portion  81   r  of the intermediate frame  81   b . Then, the intermediate  81   b  is inclined or turned around the optical axis O. Further, the adjustment is performed so that the inclination of the lens  82 , which is held in the inner frame  81   a , around the optical axis O is adjusted to the target inclination direction E 0 . 
     Next, when the adjustment screw  88  is screwed in the female screw portion  81   n  of the intermediate frame  81   b , the inclined surface of the inclination projecting portion  81   i  of the inner frame  81   a  is pushed by the tip end of the adjustment screw. Then, the cylindrical portions  81   f  and  81   g  elastically deform owing to distortion. Further, the inner frame  81   a  is turned clockwise (as viewed from the right in FIG. 29) to a direction (+θ x ). 
     Moreover, when the adjustment screw  87  is screwed in the female screw portion  81   m  of the outer frame  81   c , the inclined surface of the inclined projection portion  81   h  of the intermediate frame  81   b  is pushed by the tip end of the adjustment screw. Then, the cylindrical portions  81   d  and  81   e  elastically deform owing to distortion. Further, the inner frame  81   b  is turned clockwise (as viewed from above in FIG. 29) to a direction (+θ y ). The inclination of the optical axis of the lens is adjusted to the target direction D 0  of the optical axis by inclining or turning the frame portion in both directions. 
     Subsequently, the adjustment screw  86  is screwed in the female screw portion  81   k  of the intermediate frame  81   b . Thereafter, when a part placed on Y 1 -axis in a lower portion of the outer periphery of the inner frame  81   a  is pressed, the cylindrical portions  81   f  and  81   g  cause elastic shearing or bending, so that the inner frame  81   a  and the lens  82  perform translation (parallel displacement) upwardly along Y 1 -axis without being inclined. 
     Then, the adjustment screw  85  is screwed in the female spring portion  81   j  of the outer frame  81   c . Thereafter, when an upper right part of the outer peripheral portion of the intermediate frame  81   b , which is placed on the X-axis, is pushed, the cylindrical portions  81   d  and  81   e  cause elastic shearing or bending, so that the intermediate frame  81   b  and the lens  82  perform translation (parallel displacement) leftwardly in the direction of the X-axis without being inclined. The aforementioned translations performed in both of the two directions enable the displacement of the optical axis position from the initial lens optical axis position Pa to the target position P 0  of the optical axis O. 
     Further, the adjustment screw (namely, the rocking adjustment member)  89  is screwed in the female screw  81   s  of the outer frame  81   c . Thus, rocking is performed owing to the shearing deformation of the cylindrical portion  81   d  and to the bending deformation of the cylindrical portion  81   e  by pressing the abutting portion  81   r  of the intermediate frame  81   b.    
     Thereafter, the adjustment screws are fixed by adhesives. Thus, the adjustment of the position and posture of the optical system is finished. 
     According to the lens frame  80  of the eighth embodiment, the lens frame body  81  has an integral simple structure, similarly to the lens frame  60  of the seventh embodiment. The adjustment of the position and incline of an optical axis in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis O of the lens  82  is easily achieved by screwing the adjust screws. In addition, similarly, the adjustment of the inclination around the optical axis O is achieved by screwing the adjustment screws. 
     Incidentally, the lens  62  or  82  is employed as the optical member held in the lens frame of each of the aforementioned embodiments. However, optical members, such as a prism and a mirror other than the lenses, may be employed as the optical member held in the lens frame of each of the aforementioned embodiments. 
     Further, when the optical member is not mounted in the lens frame body, the adjustment of the position and inclination of the axis of the lens frame may be performed by tentatively mounting a reference optical member. Furthermore, as described above, the adjustment of the inclination around the optical axis, the adjustment of the inclination of the optical axis, and the adjustment of the position of the optical axis are performed in this order. However, the order of performing such adjustment operations is not necessarily limited to this sequence. 
     Incidentally, in the foregoing description of the eighth embodiment, it has been described that the optical axis of the lens is adjusted to the center axis of the lens frame. However, if there is another relative position of the lens frame, the optical axis of the lens is not always adjusted to the lens frame center. In short, the position of the optical axis of the lens can be freely adjusted in a given direction. 
     As described above, according to the lens barrels of the seventh and eighth embodiments of the present invention, by which the position and posture adjustment of the optical system can be achieved, the adjustment of the position of the optical axis of the optical member (namely, the swinging of the optical axis), and the adjustment of the position of the optical axis in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis are easily attained. Moreover, there is provided a lens frame having a simple structure. 
     Next, a lens barrel according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described hereinbelow. 
     FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of the lens barrel according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. As shown in this figure, this lens barrel is incorporated into an optical equipment, such as a camera or a microscope, and adapted to perform the adjustment of the position of the optical axis of the optical system. This lens barrel consists of a lens frame  100 , another lens frame  110 , and a rectilinear cam ring  122 . The lens frames  100  and  110  are disposed in the cam ring  122  to move along the direction of the optical axis O. A rotation cam ring  121  is rotatably fitted onto an outer peripheral portion of the rectilinear cam ring  122 . Incidentally, in this lens barrel, it is assumed that a light incidence side optical axis is denoted by “O 1 ”, and that a light output side optical axis is designated by “O 2 ”. 
     As shown in FIG. 31, the lens frame  100  consists mainly of a lens frame body  101  serving as a first frame enabled to perform the lens optical axis position by translation (parallel displacement) to a first direction (namely, the direction of Y 1 -axis) in a plane perpendicular to the lens optical axis O corresponding to the center axis of the frame, a lens  102  serving as an optical device held by the lens frame body  101 , and cam followers  103 ,  104 , and  105  securely fixed onto the outer periphery of the lens frame body  101 . 
     Incidentally, X 1 -axis and Y 1 -axis are orthogonal to each other and to the optical axis O of the lens  102  and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. Further, the axis center line of each of plate spring portions  101   d  and  101   e  serving as connecting portions (to be described later) passes through above the point P 1  of the intersection between X 1 -axis and Y 1 -axis. 
     Furthermore, it is assumed that an adjustment reference for the position of the lens optical axis in this lens barrel is an incorporated rectilinear cam ring  122 . 
     The lens frame body  101  is an integral structure member in which includes a ring-like inner frame  101   a  for holding the lens  102 , and a ring-like outer frame  101   b . The ring-like outer frame  101   b  is disposed outside of and spaced from the outer periphery of the inner frame  101   a  so that there is a gap between the outer periphery of frame  101   a  and inner periphery of frame  101   b.  The frames  101   a  and  101   b  are connected by a connecting member (namely, a plate spring member). Incidentally, the cam followers  103 ,  104 , and  105  are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame  101   b  is trisected. 
     The inner frame  101   a  and the outer frame  101   b  are connected by plate spring portions  101   d  and  101   e,  which are two deformable plate-like first connecting portions extending laterally along X 1 -axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis. The plate spring portions  101   d  and  101   e  are integrally formed with these frames  101   b  and  101   c.    
     Incidentally, it is assumed that the plate spring portions  101   d  and  101   e  can cause elastic deformation, which mainly includes shearing distortion, in the direction of the Y 1 -axis. Further, these plate springs respectively have shapes, which are nearly symmetrical with respect to the planes containing the X 1 -axis and the Y 1 -axis, so that when these plate springs are pushed by adjustment screws  106  (to be described later) through screw abutting portions of the inner frame  101   a  in the direction of the Y 1 -axis, the plate portions deform in such a way as to perform translation without being inclined to the optical axis O. That is, as described above, the axis center line of each of the plate spring portions  101   d  and  101   e  passes through above the point of intersection P 1 . Further, the abutting surface of the adjustment screw  106  is placed on a plane containing the point of intersection P 1 . 
     In the outer frame  101   b,  a female screw portion  101   i  serving as a first adjusting means is provided on the Y 1 -axis. Further, in the female screw portion  101   c,  an adjustment screw  106  serving as a first regulating means has an end portion, which is a flat-point-like slotted machine screw that abuts against the outer periphery of the inner frame  101   a.    
     Incidentally, prior to adjustment of the optical system, the initial lens optical axis position Pa is set slightly upwardly, and eccentric from the center position (namely, the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, of the lens frame  100 ), as viewed in FIG.  31 . 
     An eccentricity amount of the position Pa in the direction of Y 1 -axis is set more than at least an adjustment amount of the lens optical axis position. Pa is kept eccentric by the adjustment screw  106  which is screwed through the lens frame body  101 , and abutted against the screw abutting surface of the outer periphery of the inner frame  101   a . Incidentally, the eccentricity in the direction of X 1 -axis of the initial lens optical axis position Pa is comprehensively regulated by the lens frame  100  (to be described later). Thus, the position Pa has only to be placed nearly on Y 1 -axis within a range of variation in products. 
     On the other hand, as shown in FIG.  33  and FIG. 34, the lens frame  110  consists mainly of a lens frame body  111  serving as a second frame enabled to perform the lens optical axis position by translation to a second direction (namely, the direction of horizontal X 1 -axis (to be described later)) orthogonal to the fist direction in a plane perpendicular to the lens optical axis O corresponding to the center axis of the frame, a lens  112  serving as an optical device held by the lens frame body  111 , and cam followers  113 ,  114 , and  115  securely fixed onto the outer periphery of the lens frame body  111 . 
     Incidentally, X 2 -axis and Y 2 -axis are orthogonal to each other and to the optical axis O of the lens  112  and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. Further, the axis center line of each of the plate spring portions  111   d  and  111   e  serve as connecting portions (to be described later) and each passes through above the point P 2  of intersection between X 2 -axis and Y 2 -axis, which are parallel to X 1 -axis and Y 1 -axis of the lens frame  100 , respectively. Thus, X 2 -axis and Y 2 -axis are orthogonal to Y 1 -axis (corresponding to the first direction) and X 2 -axis (corresponding to the second direction). 
     The lens frame body  111  is an integral structure member in which a ring-like inner frame  111   a  for holding the lens  112 , and a ring-like outer frame  111   b , which is disposed outside of and, spaced from, the outer periphery of the inner frame  111   a,  are connected by a connecting member (namely, a plate spring member). Incidentally, the cam followers  113 ,  114 , and  115  are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame  111   b  is trisected. 
     The inner frame  111   a  and the outer frame  111   b  are connected by plate spring portions  111   d  and  111   e.  The plate spring portions  111   d  and  111   e  are integrally formed with the frames  111   b  and  111   c,  and are two deformable plate-like first connecting portions extending upwardly and downwardly along Y 2 -axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis. 
     Incidentally, it is assumed that the plate spring portions  111   d  and  111   e  can cause elastic deformation, which mainly includes shearing distortion, in the direction of Y 2 -axis. Further, these plate springs respectively have nearly symmetrical shapes with respect to the planes containing X 2 -axis and Y 2 -axis, so that when these plate springs are pushed by adjustment screws  116  (to be described later) through screw abutting portions of the inner frame  111   a  in the direction of Y 2 -axis, the plate portions deform in such a way as to perform translation (parallel displacement) without being inclined to the optical axis O. That is, as described above, the axis center line of each of the plate spring portions  111   d  and  111   e  passes through above the point of intersection P 2 . Further, the abutting surface of the adjustment screw  116  is placed on a plane containing the point of intersection P 2 . 
     In the outer frame  111   b , a female screw portion  111   i  serving as a first adjusting means is provided on X 2 -axis. Further, in the female screw portion  111   c,  an adjustment screw  116  serving as a first regulating means is a flat-point-like slotted machine screw having an end portion abutting against the outer periphery of the inner frame  111   a.    
     Incidentally, prior to adjustment of the optical system, the initial lens optical axis position Pb is set slightly upwardly eccentric from the center position (namely, the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position of the lens frame  110 ), as viewed n FIG.  33 . 
     An eccentricity amount of the position Pb in the direction of X 2 -axis is set more than at least an adjustment amount of the lens optical axis position. Pb is kept eccentric by the adjustment screw  116 , which is screwed through the lens frame body  101 , and abutted against the screw abutting surface of the outer periphery of the inner frame  111   a.  Incidentally, the eccentricity in the direction of Y 2 -axis of the initial lens optical axis position Pb is comprehensively regulated by the lens frame  110 . Thus, the position Pb has only to be placed nearly on X 2 -axis within a range of variation in products. 
     The rectilinear cam ring  122  is a stationary member mounted on the optical equipment and has three rectilinear guide grooves  122   a  in the outer peripheral portion thereof, into which the cam followers  103 ,  104 ,  105  and  113 ,  114 ,  115  of the lens frames  100  and  110  are slidably fitted, and has openings  122   b  and  122   c , through which the adjustment screws  106  and  116  of the frames  100  and  110  are inserted, for regulating these screws  106  and  116 . 
     The rotational cam ring  121  is a member rotatably fitted into the outer periphery of the rectilinear cam ring  122  and has three cam grooves  121   a , into which the cam followers  103 ,  104 ,  105  of the lens frame  100  are respectively slidably fitted, and cam grooves  121   b , into which the cam followers  113 ,  114 ,  115  of the lens frame  110  are respectively slidably fitted, three guide grooves  121   c  in the outer peripheral portion thereof for fitting the cam followers into the corresponding cam grooves  121   a  and  121   b , and openings  121   d  and  121   e,  through which the adjustment screws  106  and  116  of the frames  100  and  110  are inserted, for regulating these screws  106  and  116 . 
     In the lens barrel of this embodiment, the lens frames  100  and  110  are incorporated thereinto in a side-by-side manner by fitting the cam followers into the guide grooves  122   a  in the inner peripheral portion of the rectilinear cam ring  122 . Moreover, the rotational cam ring  121  is fitted into the outer peripheral portion of the rectilinear cam ring  122 . Furthermore, the cam followers of the lens frame are fitted into the cam grooves  121   a  and  121   b.    
     Next, an optical axis position adjusting operation of the lens barrel of the ninth embodiment constructed in the aforementioned manner will be described hereinbelow. 
     The optical axis position adjustment of the lens barrel, to which the lens frames  100  and  110  are incorporated, is performed on the rectilinear cam ring  122  and the rotational cam ring  121  by using an adjustment jig consisting of a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion. When such adjustment is performed, the point light source portion of the adjustment jig is set at the light incidence side thereof, while the CCD portion is set at the light output side thereof. Further, the optical axis position is caused to perform translation (parallel displacement) in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis of the lens according to an optical axis detection signal outputted from the CCD portion. Thus, the optical axis position is adjusted to a target optical axis position. 
     Incidentally, an optical axis O 2  at the light output side is employed as an adjustment target optical axis position. Further, an axis passing through this optical axis O 2  and parallel to Y 1 -axis and Y 2 -axis is designated by “Y 0 -axis”. Moreover, an axis passing through this optical axis O 2  and parallel to X 1 -axis and X 2 -axis is designated by “X 0 -axis”. 
     First, the screwing depth of the adjustment screw  106  of the lens frame  100  is regulated through the openings  121   d  and  122   b  so as to perform the adjustment of the optical axis position in the direction of Y 0 -axis. That is, when the adjustment screw  106  is screwed, the plate springs  101   d  and  101   e  deform, so that the inner frame  101   a  translates downwardly in the direction of Y 1 -axis by maintaining the parallel condition thereof with respect to the optical axis O. Thus, the optical axis position in the direction of Y 0 -axis is determined. 
     Subsequently, the screwing depth of the adjustment screw  116  of the lens frame  110  is regulated through the openings  121   e  and  122   c  so as to perform the adjustment of the optical axis position in the direction of X 0 -axis. That is, when the adjustment screw  116  is screwed, the plate springs  111   d  and  111   e  deform, so that the inner frame  111   a  translates leftwardly from the direction of X 2 -axis by maintaining the parallel condition thereof with respect to the optical axis O. Thus, the optical axis position in the direction of X 0 -axis is determined. 
     As a result of the positioning adjustment in X 0 -axis and Y 0 -axis, the comprehensive optical axis position at the light output side of each of the lens frames  100  and  110  is adjusted to the target optical axis position O 2 . Upon completion of setting the adjusted position, the adjustment is finished by fixing the adjustment screws  106  and  116  to the female screw portions  101   c  and  111   c  by adhesives, respectively. 
     Incidentally, the movement of the frame portions at the time of adjustment of the lens optical axis position is realized by the deformation of the plate spring portions (or deformation portions)  101   d  and  101   e  in the direction of Y 1 -axis and by the deformation of the plate spring portions (or deformation portions)  111   d  and  111   e  in the direction of X 2 -axis. Such deformation is microdeformation and synthesized from one or both of the bending strain, which is caused due to the bending moment of the parallel spring portion, and the shearing strain, which is caused owing to the shearing force thereof. 
     Additionally, if readjustment of the lens frame is not performed, the plate spring portions  101   d ,  101   e,    111   d , and  111   e  may utilize not only elastic deformation but also plastic deformation. 
     As described above, in the case of the lens barrel of this ninth embodiment, the adjustments of the optical axis position utilizing translation in the two lens frames  100  and  110  correspondingly to the directions of X 0 -axis and Y 0 -axis can be performed independently thereof. Thus, the adjustment operations are extremely simplified. Moreover, the adjustment accuracy is enhanced. Simultaneously, the cost thereof is reduced because of the simple structure of the lens frames  100  and  110 . 
     Incidentally, in the lens barrels of the aforementioned embodiments, the first and second directions for the optical axis adjustment are orthogonal to each other. It is unnecessary that the first and second directions are orthogonal to each other in the strict sense. Even when the first and second directions are nearly orthogonal to each other, the optical axis adjustment can be performed. Further, in the foregoing description, both the optical axes of the lenses  102  and  112  are adjusted to the optical axis O 2 . However, the position of the optical axes are not limited thereto. As long as the optical axes of the lenses  102  and  112  coincide with each other, other positions of these optical axes may be employed. Thus, the optical axes of the lenses  102  and  112  are not necessarily adjusted to the optical axis O 2 . 
     As described above, according to the lens barrel of the ninth embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment of the positions of the optical axes of the lenses can be performed by using the first frame and the second frame and utilizing the translation of the optical axes in two directions. Thus, the adjustment operation is easily achieved. Moreover, the structure of the lens frame is simplified. 
     Next, a lens barrel according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described hereinbelow. 
     FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view of the lens barrel that is the tenth embodiment of the present invention. As shown in this figure, this lens barrel is incorporated into an optical equipment, such as a camera or a microscope and adapted in such a way as to be able to perform the adjustment of the position of the optical system optical axis. This lens barrel consists of a lens frame  200 , another lens frame  210 , a rectilinear cam ring  222  on which the lens frames  200  and  210  are disposed to move along the direction of the optical axis O, and a rotation cam ring  221  to be rotatably fitted into an outer peripheral portion of the rectilinear cam ring  122 . Incidentally, in this lens barrel, it is assumed that a light incidence side optical axis is denoted by “O 1 ”, and that a light output side optical axis is designated by “O 2 ”. 
     As shown in FIG. 36, and FIG. 37, the lens frame  200  consists mainly of a lens frame body  201  serving as a first frame, a lens  202  serving as an optical device held by the lens frame body  201 , and cam followers  203 ,  204 , and  205  securely fixed onto the outer periphery of the lens frame body  201 . In the case of this lens frame  200 , the translation adjustment (namely, the centration) of the optical axis position of the lens  202 , namely, the optical axis position in a plane orthogonal to the lens optical axis O, can be performed. The lens  202  has a lens configuration that significantly contributes to the optical axis position adjustment (or the centering). 
     Incidentally, X 1 -axis and Y 1 -axis are orthogonal to each other and to the optical axis O of the lens  202  and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. Further, the axis center lines of plate spring portions  201   d  and  201   e  and  201   f  and  201   g  serving as connecting portions (to be described later) intersect one another above the point P 0  of the intersection between X 1 -axis and Y 1 -axis. 
     The lens frame body  201  is an integral structure member in which a ring-like inner frame  201   a  for holding the lens  202  and a ring-like intermediate frame  201   b , which is disposed outside of, and spaced from, the outer periphery of the inner frame  201   a , and a ring-like outer frame  201   c , which is disposed outside of, and spaced from, the outer periphery of the intermediate frame  201   b , are connected by a connecting member (namely, a plate spring member). Incidentally, the cam followers  203 ,  204 , and  205  are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame  201   c  is trisected. 
     The inner frame  201   a  and the intermediate frame  201   b  are connected by parallel spring portions  201   d  and  201   e . The parallel spring portions  201   d  and  201   e  are integrally formed with the frames  201   a  and  201   b , and are two deformable plate-like first connecting portions extending upwardly and downwardly and striding over Y 1 -axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis. 
     Further, the intermediate frame  201   b  and the outer frame  201   c  are connected by parallel spring portions  201   f  and  201   g , integrally formed with the frames  201   b  and  201   c . The parallel spring portions  201   f  and  201   g  are two deformable plate-like first connecting portions extending laterally and striding over X 1 -axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis. 
     Incidentally, the plate spring portions  201   d ,  201   e  and  201   f ,  201   g  deform in the direction of X 1 -axis or Y 1 -axis when the screw abutting portion is pressed by adjustment screws (to be described later), in such a manner as to maintain the parallel relation therebetween, so that the inner frame  201   a  or the intermediate frame  201   b  translates without being inclined toward the optical axis O. This is because the center lines of the parallel spring portions  201   d ,  201   e , and  201   f ,  201   g  pass through the point of intersection P 0  and have symmetric shapes with respect to a plane containing X 1 -axis and Y 1 -axis, and because the screw abutting portions of the adjustment screws (to be described later) are placed on X 1 -axis and Y 1 -axis. 
     Furthermore, regarding two sets of two parallel springs  201   d ,  201   e  and  201   f ,  201   g , each of these parallel springs can perform the functions thereof. 
     In the intermediate frame  201   b , a female screw portion  201   i  serving as a first adjusting means is provided on X 1 -axis. In the inner frame  201   a , a screw abutting surface  201   k  is provided at a place inwardly opposed to the female screw portion  201   i . Further, in the outer frame  201   c , an opening  201   h , through which the adjustment screw passes, is provided at a place outwardly opposed to the female screw portion  201   i . Similarly, in the outer frame  201   c , a female screw portion  201   j  is provided as adjusting means of the body  201 . In the intermediate frame  201   b , a screw abutting surface  201   m  is provided at a place inwardly opposed to the female screw portion  201   j.    
     In the intermediate frame  201   b , an adjustment screw  206  serving as first adjusting means is screwed through the opening  201   h . Furthermore, in the female screw portion  201  of the outer frame  201   c , an adjustment screw  207  serving as the first adjusting means is screwed. Incidentally, the screws  206  and  207  are flat-point-like slotted machine screws. Preferably, the end portion of such a screw has a curved or spherical surface. 
     Incidentally, prior to the adjustment of the optical system, the initial lens optical axis position Z is set slightly upwardly eccentric from the center position (namely, the position of an optical axis O, which is an adjustment target position, of the lens frame  200 ), as viewed in FIG.  36 . An eccentricity amount of the position Z is set in such a manner as to be more than at least an adjustment amount of the lens optical axis position Z is kept eccentric by the adjustment screw  206 , which is screwed through the lens frame body and abutted against the screw abutting surface  201   k  of the inner frame  201   a.    
     On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 38, and FIG. 39 the lens frame  210  consists mainly of a lens frame body  211  serving as a second frame, a lens  212  serving as an optical device held by the lens frame body  211 , and cam followers  213 ,  214 , and  215  securely fixed onto the outer periphery of the lens frame body  211 . The lens frame  210  is adapted so that the adjustment of the optical system position of the lens  212 , namely, the adjustment of the incline of the optical axis O, can be performed. The lens  212  incorporated into this lens frame  210  has a lens configuration that greatly contributes to the inclination of the lens optical axis. 
     Incidentally, X 2 -axis and Y 2 -axis are orthogonal to each other and to the optical axis O of the lens  212  and correspond to horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. Further, the axis center line of each of cylindrical portions  211   d ,  211   e  and  211   f ,  211   g , which serve as connecting portions (to be described later), passes through above the point P 0  of intersection between X 2 -axis and Y 2 -axis, which are parallel to X 1 -axis and Y 1 -axis, respectively. 
     Moreover, it is supposed that the surface side of the lens frame  210  on FIG. 38 (which corresponds to the left-hand side thereof, as viewed in FIG. 39) is the “front side” thereof, and that the back side thereof on FIG. 38 (which corresponds to the right-hand side thereof, as viewed in FIG. 39) is the “rear side” thereof. 
     The lens frame body  211  is an integral structure member in which a ring-like inner frame  211   a  for holding the lens  212 , a ring-like intermediate frame  211   b , which is disposed outside of, and spaced from, the outer periphery of the inner frame  211   a , and a ring-like outer frame  211   c , which is disposed outside of, and spaced from, the outer periphery of the intermediate frame  211   b , are connected by a connecting member. Incidentally, the cam followers  213 ,  214 , and  215  are securely fixed at positions at which the outer circumference of the outer frame  211   b  is trisected. 
     The inner frame  211   a  and the intermediate frame  211   b  are connected by cylindrical portions  211   d  and  211   e . Cylindrical portions  211   d  and  211   e  are integrally formed with the frames  211   a  and  211   b , each being a distortionally deformable cylindrical portion serving as a connecting portion and extending upwardly and downwardly along Y 2 -axis, as viewed from the direction of the optical axis. 
     Furthermore, the intermediate frame  211   b  and the outer frame  211   c  are connected by cylindrical portions  211   f  and  211   g . These cylindrical portions are integrally formed with the frames  211   a  and  211   b , each being a distortionally deformable cylindrical portion serving as a connecting portion and extending laterally on X 2 -axis. 
     In the intermediate frame  211   b , a female screw portion  211   k  serving as a second adjusting means is provided in the vicinity of X 2 -axis, in a right side part of the outer periphery of the intermediate frame of FIG.  38 . Further, in the female screw portion  211   c , a female screw portion  211   m  serving as a second adjusting means is provided in the vicinity of Y 2 -axis, in an upper part of the outer periphery of the outer frame of FIG.  38 . Incidentally, a notch  211   n , through which the adjustment screw passes, is provided at a place opposed to the female screw portion  211   k  of the outer frame  211   c.    
     An adjustment screw  216  serving as second adjusting means is screwed in the female screw portion  211   k  of the intermediate frame  211   b . An adjustment screw  217  serving as second adjusting means is screwed in the female screw portion  211   m  of the outer frame  211   c . The adjustment screws  216  and  217  are slotted machine screws each having a conical end portion. 
     Furthermore, the inner frame  211   a  is provided with an inclined projection portion  211   i , which serves as an inclination adjusting mechanism projecting opposed to the female screw portion  211   k  of an upper part of the outer peripheral portion of the inner frame  211   a , and inclining outwardly, radially and backwardly on X 2 -axis, in a right-hand side part of the outer peripheral portion thereof. Further, similarly, the intermediate frame  211   b  is provided with an inclined projection portion  211   j , which serves as an inclined outwardly portion that faces the female screw portion  211   m  of the outer frame  211   c , and projecting upwardly from its outer peripheral portion, and extending along the Y 2 -axis inclined in a backwardly and outwardly direction. 
     The inclined surfaces of the projection portions  211   i  and  211   j  can be pressed by the adjustment screws  216  and  217  from the directions of X 2 -axis and Y 2 -axis. When pressed by the screws  216  and  217 , the intermediate frame  211   b  and the outer frame  211   c  are inclined to X 2 -axis and Y 2 -axis, so that the inclination of the optical axis of the lens  212  can be changed. 
     Incidentally, prior to the adjustment of the optical system, the initial lens optical axis direction (namely, the inclination of the optical axis at the light output side) α z  is turned upwardly and leftwardly from the adjustment target direction α 0  (namely, the degree of the optical axis angle is 0°) within an adjustable range, a shown in FIG.  35 . The reason for preliminarily turning the initial lens optical axis direction α z  by a predetermined number of degrees is that the adjustment should be performed by maintaining a state in which the conical end portions of the adjustment screws are abutted against the abutting portion  211   i  and  211   j.    
     The rectilinear cam ring  222  is a stationary member mounted on the optical equipment and has three rectilinear guide grooves  222   a  in the outer peripheral portion thereof, into which the cam followers  203 ,  204 ,  205  and  213 ,  214 ,  215  of the lens frames  200  and  210  are slidably fitted, has openings  222   d  and  222   e , through which the adjustment screws  206  and  207  of the frames  200  are inserted, for regulating these screws  206  and  207 , and has openings  222   f  and  222   g , through which the adjustment screws  216  and  217  of the frames  210  are inserted, for regulating these screws  216  and  217   
     The rotational cam ring  221  is a member rotatably fitted into the outer periphery of the rectilinear cam ring  222  and has three cam grooves  221   a , into which the cam followers  203 ,  204 ,  205  and  213 ,  214 ,  215  of the lens frame  200  and  210  are respectively slidably fitted, three cam grooves  221   b , into which the cam followers  213 ,  214 ,  215  of the lens frame  210  are respectively slidably fitted, three guide grooves  221   c  for fitting the cam followers into the corresponding cam grooves  221   a  and  221   b  in the outer peripheral portion thereof, and has openings  221   d  and  221   e , through which the adjustment screws  206  and  216  of the frames  200  and  210  are inserted, for regulating these screws  206  and  216 . 
     In this embodiment, the lens frames  200  and  210  are incorporated into the lens barrel in a side-by-side manner by fitting the cam followers into the guide grooves  222   a  in the inner peripheral portion of the rectilinear cam ring  222  so that the frame  210  is incorporated at the light output side, and that the frame  220  is incorporated at the light incidence side. Moreover, the rotational cam ring  221  is fitted into the outer peripheral portion of the rectilinear cam ring  222 . Furthermore, the cam followers of the lens frame are rotatably fitted into the cam grooves  221   a  and  221   b . Thus, the assembling of this lens barrel is completed. 
     Next, an optical axis position adjusting operation of the lens barrel of the tenth embodiment constructed in the aforementioned manner will be described hereinbelow. 
     The optical axis position adjustment of the lens barrel when the lens frames  200  and  210  are respectively incorporated into the rectilinear cam ring  222  and the rotational cam ring  221  is performed by using an adjustment jig consisting of a point light source portion and an optical-axis detecting CCD portion. When such adjustment is performed, the point light source portion of the adjustment jig is set at the light incidence side thereof, while the CCD portion is set at the light output side thereof. Further, the incline of the lens optical axis, and the optical axis position are adjusted utilizing the translation of the lens in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis of the lens according to an optical axis detection signal outputted from the CCD portion. 
     First, the screwing depth of the adjustment screws  216  and  217  of the lens frame  210  are regulated through the openings  221   f ,  222   f  and  221   g ,  222   g  so as to perform the adjustment of the inclination of the lens optical axis. That is, the inclined projection portion  211 I is pressed by the end portion of the adjustment screw, and the cylindrical portions  211   d  and  211   e  distortionally deform, so that the inner frame  211   a  holding the lens  212  is inclined clockwise (as viewed from above in FIG.  35 ). 
     Further, the inclined projection portion  211   j  is pushed by the end portion of the adjustment screw  217 , so that the cylindrical portions  211   f  and  211   g  distortionally deform and that the inner frame  211   a  and the intermediate frame  211   b  are turned clockwise (as viewed from the right-hand side in FIG.  35 ). Thus, the incline of the initial lens optical axis inclination α z  of the optical axis O 2  is adjusted to the adjustment target direction α 0 . As a result of this adjustment, the adjustment of the comprehensive inclination of the optical axis of the frames  200  and  210  is obtained. Thus, the adjustment of at least one direction can be achieved. 
     Next, the screwing depth of the adjustment screws  206  and  207  of the lens frame  200  is regulated through the openings  221   d ,  222   d  and  221   e ,  222   e  so as to perform the adjustment of the position of the optical axis. That is, when the screw  206  is screwed, the parallel spring portions  201   d ,  201   e  perform bending deformation (strictly speaking, bending or shearing or the combination thereof), so that the inner frame  201   a  translates in the direction of X 1  by maintaining the parallel condition thereof with respect to the optical axis O. 
     Further, when the screw  207  is screwed, the parallel spring portions  201   f  and  201   g  deform, so that the intermediate frame  201   b  translates in the direction of Y 1  by maintaining the parallel condition thereof with respect to the optical axis O. As a result of this translation, the lens optical axis position of the output side optical axis O 2  is adjusted to the target optical axis position O. The comprehensive optical axis position of the frames  200  and  210  is obtained by this adjustment. Thus, the adjustment of at least one direction can be achieved. 
     Thereafter, the screws  206 ,  207  and  216 ,  217  are fixed to the female screw portions  201   i,    201   j  and  211   k ,  211   m . Then, the adjustment is finished. 
     As described above, according to the lens barrel of the tenth embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment of the position of the optical axes of the lenses and the adjustment of the inclination of the optical axis thereof by utilizing the translation of the optical axes are independently performed in two lens frames  200  and  210 . Thus, the adjustment operation is significantly simplified. The adjustment accuracy is also enhanced. Simultaneously, the cost is reduced because of the simple structures of the lens frames  200  and  210 . 
     Incidentally, although the adjustment of the position of the optical axis is performed on the frame  210  and the frame  200  in this order, the order of performing the adjustment of the position and inclination of the optical axis is not limited thereto. 
     Additionally, in the lens barrel of the embodiments, the adjustment of the optical axis position and the adjustment of the optical axis inclination are performed by maintaining the state in which the frames  200  and  210  are incorporated in the rectilinear cam ring  222 . However, the frames  200  and  210  greatly affect the optical axis position and the optical axis inclination, respectively. Thus, the adjustment operation may be performed as follows. That is, the adjustment of the optical axis position is performed on the frame  200  singly, while the adjustment of the optical axis inclination is performed on the frame  210  single. Thereafter, the frames  200  and  210  are incorporated into the rectilinear cam ring  222  and the rotational cam ring  221 . 
     Further, if readjustment of the lens frame is not performed, deformation of the parallel spring portions  201   d  and  201   f  of the frame  200  and that of the cylindrical portions  211   d  and  211   f  of the frame  210  may be obtained by utilizing not only elastic deformation but also plastic deformation. 
     As described above, according to the lens barrel of the tenth embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment of the positions of the optical axes of the lenses can be performed by using the first frame and the second frame, respectively. Thus, the adjustment operation is easily achieved. Moreover, the adjustment accuracy is enhanced. Furthermore, the structure of the lens frame is simple. Consequently, significant reduction in cost is achieved. 
     Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited thereto and that other modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the sprint of the invention. 
     The scope of the present invention, therefore, should be determined solely by the appended claims.