Patent ID: 8035905

Claim:
An optical element positioning apparatus for moving an optical element from a storage position to a use position on an optical path and for positioning and holding the optical element at the use position, comprising: first and second guide shafts configured to guide a holding member that holds the optical element such that the holding member is movable between the storage position and the use position; holding portions provided in a stationary member and configured to hold ends of said first and second guide shafts on a side close to the use position of the optical element; guide-supporting and receiving portions provided in the holding member and formed with guide holes through which said first and second guide shafts are slidably inserted; and an urging device configured to urge holding-member positioning parts of the guide-supporting and receiving portions of the holding member moved to the use position such that the holding-member positioning parts are made in press-contact with ends of said holding portions.