阅读说明：本技术 致动器和相机装置 (Actuator and camera device ) 是由 越智正明 富田浩稔 于 2018-07-13 设计创作，主要内容包括：提供了致动器和相机装置。对于该致动器和相机装置,简化了布线结构并且能够扩大运动范围。致动器(2)设置有第一模块(10)、第二模块(20a)和安装单元(100)。第二模块(20a)支撑第一模块(10),使得第一模块(10)能够绕X轴和Y轴旋转。安装单元(100)支撑第二模块(20a),以便允许第二模块(20a)旋转。第二模块(20a)相对于安装单元(100)的运动范围为360度以上。第二模块(20a)具有摇摄驱动线圈(32a)、倾转驱动线圈(32b)和第二滚转驱动线圈(37)。(An actuator and a camera apparatus are provided. With the actuator and the camera apparatus, the wiring structure is simplified and the range of motion can be expanded. The actuator (2) is provided with a first module (10), a second module (20a), and a mounting unit (100). The second module (20a) supports the first module (10) such that the first module (10) is rotatable about the X-axis and the Y-axis. The mounting unit (100) supports the second module (20a) so as to allow the second module (20a) to rotate. The range of motion of the second module (20a) relative to the mounting unit (100) is 360 degrees or more. The second module (20a) has a pan drive coil (32a), a tilt drive coil (32b), and a second roll drive coil (37).)

1. An actuator, comprising:

a first module comprising a first magnet and a second magnet;

a second module configured to support the first module to enable the first module to rotate about each of a first axis and a second axis perpendicular to the first axis; and

a mounting unit including a third magnet and configured to support the second module to enable the second module to rotate,

the second module has a movable range of 360 degrees or more with respect to the mounting unit,

the second module includes:

a first coil configured to electromagnetically drive the first module to rotate about the first axis relative to the second module by generating a magnetic force between the first coil itself and the first magnet;

a second coil configured to electromagnetically drive the first module to rotate about the second axis relative to the second module by generating a magnetic force between the second coil itself and the second magnet; and

a third coil configured to electromagnetically drive the mounting unit to rotate relative to the second module by generating a magnetic force between the third coil itself and the third magnet.

2. The actuator of claim 1, further comprising a detection unit configured to detect an orientation of the first module, wherein,

controlling rotational driving of the first module about each of the first axis and the second axis based on a detection result of the detection unit.

3. The actuator according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a sensor unit configured to detect an acceleration of the first module or the second module, wherein,

controlling the first module to face a certain direction with respect to gravity based on a result obtained by the sensor unit.

4. The actuator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising:

a first retaining mechanism configured to be rotatable about each of the first axis and the second axis and to fit the second module to the first module; and

a second holding mechanism configured to fit the mounting unit to the second module such that the mounting unit is rotatable with respect to the second module, wherein,

the second module includes a first yoke having the first coil and a second yoke having the second coil, and

the second module is configured to suck and hold the first module by a magnetic attraction force generated by the first yoke and the second yoke.

5. The actuator according to any one of claims 1 to 4,

the second module is supported by the mounting unit so as to be rotatable about a third axis perpendicular to both the first axis and the second axis.

6. The actuator of claim 5,

the third coil is composed of a plurality of driving coils,

the third magnet is composed of a plurality of driving magnets,

in the second module, the plurality of drive coils are arranged along a circumference of a circle centered on the third axis, and

the plurality of magnets are provided for the mounting unit so as to be arranged along a circumference of another circle centered on the third axis and around the plurality of drive coils.

7. The actuator of claim 5,

the third coil is composed of a plurality of driving coils,

the third magnet is composed of a plurality of driving magnets,

the first module is disposed at one of two ends of the second module defined along the third axis,

the plurality of driving coils are arranged along a circumference of a circle centered on the third axis at the other of the two ends of the second module defined along the third axis,

the mounting unit includes the plurality of driving magnets, and is fitted to the second module at the other of the two ends of the second module defined along the third axis, and

the plurality of drive magnets are provided for the mounting unit, and are arranged along a circumference of another circle centered on the third axis so as to surround the plurality of drive coils.

8. The actuator according to any one of claims 1 to 7,

the first module is electromagnetically driven to rotate relative to the second module about a third axis that is perpendicular to both the first axis and the second axis.

9. The actuator according to any one of claims 1 to 8,

the second module is composed of a third module and a fourth module,

the third module is configured to be attachable to and removable from the fourth module; the third module and the fourth module being electrically connected together when the third module is attached to the fourth module,

the third module is fitted to the first module by a first holding mechanism configured to be rotatable about each of the first axis and the second axis,

the fourth module is fitted to the mounting unit by a second holding mechanism configured to be rotatable,

the third module includes the first coil and the second coil, and

the fourth module includes the third coil.

10. The actuator according to any one of claims 1 to 9,

the actuator is used as a camera device.

11. A camera device, comprising:

an actuator according to any one of claims 1 to 9; and

a camera module disposed in the first module.

12. An actuator, comprising:

a first module configured to be rotatable about each of a first axis and a second axis perpendicular to the first axis;

a second module configured to support the first module to enable the first module to rotate about each of the first and second axes;

a first drive unit comprising a first coil and a first magnet and configured to electromagnetically drive the first module to rotate about the first axis relative to the second module;

a second drive unit including a second coil and a second magnet and configured to electromagnetically drive the first module to rotate about the second axis with respect to the second module;

a mounting unit to be fitted to the second module; and

a third driving unit including a third coil and a third magnet and configured to electromagnetically drive the second module to rotate about a third axis perpendicular to both the first axis and the second axis with respect to the mounting unit, wherein a moving range is expanded to 360 degrees or more,

the first coil, the second coil and the third coil are provided for the second module.

13. The actuator of claim 12, further comprising a detection unit configured to detect an orientation of the first module, wherein,

the first drive unit, the second drive unit, and the third drive unit are configured to control rotation based on a detection result of the detection unit.

14. The actuator according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising a sensor unit configured to detect an acceleration of the first module or the second module, wherein,

the first, second, and third driving units control the first module such that the first module faces a certain direction with respect to gravity based on a result obtained by the sensor unit.

15. The actuator according to any one of claims 12 to 14, further comprising:

a first retaining mechanism configured to be rotatable about each of the first axis and the second axis and to fit the second module to the first module, wherein a gap is left between the first module and the second module; and

a second holding mechanism configured to be rotatable about the third axis and to fit the mounting unit to the second module, wherein,

the second module includes a first yoke having the first coil and a second yoke having the second coil, and

the second module is configured to suck and hold the first module by a magnetic attraction force generated by the first yoke and the second yoke.

16. The actuator according to any one of claims 12 to 15,

the third driving unit is a brushless motor.

17. The actuator of claim 16,

the third coil is composed of a plurality of driving coils,

the third magnet is composed of a plurality of driving magnets,

in the second module, the plurality of driving magnets are arranged along a circumference of a circle centered on the third axis, and

the plurality of drive magnets are provided for the mounting unit so as to be arranged along a circumference of another circle centered on the third axis and around the plurality of drive coils.

18. The actuator of claim 16,

the third coil is composed of a plurality of driving coils,

the third magnet is composed of a plurality of driving magnets,

the first module is disposed at one of two ends of the second module defined along the third axis,

the plurality of driving coils are arranged along a circumference of a circle centered on the third axis at the other of the two ends of the second module defined along the third axis,

the mounting unit includes a plurality of driving magnets, and is fitted to the second module at the other of the two ends of the second module defined along the third axis, and

the plurality of drive magnets are provided for the mounting unit, and are arranged along a circumference of another circle centered on the third axis so as to surround the plurality of drive coils.

19. The actuator of any one of claims 12 to 18, further comprising a rotational drive unit configured to electromagnetically drive the first module to rotate relative to the second module about the third axis.

20. The actuator according to any one of claims 12 to 19,

the second module is composed of a third module and a fourth module,

the third module is configured to be attachable to and removable from the fourth module; the third module and the fourth module being electrically connected together when the third module is attached to the fourth module,

the third module is fitted to the first module with a gap left therebetween with respect to a first holding mechanism configured to be rotatable about each of the first axis and the second axis,

the fourth module is fitted to the mounting unit by a second holding mechanism configured to be rotatable about the third axis,

the third module includes the first coil, the second coil, and a battery,

the fourth module includes the third coil.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to an actuator and a camera apparatus, and more particularly, to an actuator and a camera apparatus configured to drive an object to be driven to rotate.

Background

A camera driver (actuator) is known in the art as a device for rotating a camera unit as an object to be driven in three axis directions perpendicular to each other (see, for example, patent document 1).

However, according to patent document 1, the movable range is limited in each of the three axis directions. For example, the movable range is-15 degrees to +15 degrees in the panning and tilting directions and about 5 degrees in the rolling direction.

In order to expand the movable range of the camera unit, it is necessary to provide an external device such as a motor for the camera driver (actuator), and thus complicated wiring is sometimes required to connect the external device to the camera driver.

Disclosure of Invention

In view of the above background, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an actuator and a camera apparatus having a capability of enlarging a movable range while simplifying a wiring scheme.

An actuator according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a first module, a second module, and a mounting unit. The first module includes a first magnet and a second magnet. The second module supports the first module to enable the first module to rotate about each of a first axis and a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. The mounting unit includes a third magnet, and supports the second module to enable the second module to rotate. The second module has a movable range of 360 degrees or more with respect to the mounting unit. The second module includes a first coil, a second coil, and a third coil. The first coil electromagnetically drives the first module to rotate about the first axis relative to the second module by generating a magnetic force between the first coil itself and the first magnet. The second coil electromagnetically drives the first module to rotate about the second axis relative to the second module by generating a magnetic force between the second coil itself and the second magnet. The third coil electromagnetically drives the mounting unit to rotate relative to the second module by generating a magnetic force between the third coil itself and the third magnet.

A camera apparatus according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes the above-described actuator and a camera module arranged in the first module.

An actuator according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure includes a first module, a second module, a first drive unit, a second drive unit, a mounting unit, and a third drive unit. The first module is rotatable about each of a first axis and a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. The second module supports the first module such that the first module is rotatable about a first axis and a second axis. The first drive unit includes a first coil and a first magnet, and electromagnetically drives the first module to rotate about the first axis with respect to the second module. The second drive unit includes a second coil and a second magnet, and electromagnetically drives the first module to rotate about the second axis with respect to the second module. The mounting unit is to be assembled to the second module. The third driving unit includes a third coil and a third magnet, and electromagnetically drives the second module to rotate about a third axis perpendicular to both the first axis and the second axis with respect to the mounting unit, wherein the moving range is extended to 360 degrees or more. The first coil, the second coil and the third coil are provided for the second module.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration for a camera apparatus according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 2A is a perspective view of the camera device;

fig. 2B is an exploded perspective view of the camera device;

fig. 2C is a sectional view of the camera device;

fig. 3A is a perspective view of a sub-assembly made up of a camera module, a movable unit, and a fixed unit included in the camera apparatus;

fig. 3B is a plan view of a sub-assembly made up of a camera module, a movable unit, and a fixed unit included in the camera apparatus;

fig. 4 is a sectional view taken along a plane X1-X1 of a subassembly made up of a camera module, a movable unit, and a fixed unit included in the camera apparatus;

fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a sub assembly constituted by a camera module, a movable unit, and a fixed unit included in the camera apparatus;

fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a movable unit included in the camera apparatus;

fig. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration for a camera apparatus according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 8A is a perspective view of the camera device;

fig. 8B is a sectional view of the camera device; and

fig. 9 is a diagram showing a modification of the camera apparatus.

Detailed Description

Note that the embodiments to be described below and their modifications are merely examples of the present disclosure, and should not be construed as limiting. On the contrary, those embodiments and modifications may be easily modified in various ways according to design choice or any other factors without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The figures referred to in the following description of the first and second embodiments are schematic representations. That is, the size (including thickness) ratio of the respective constituent elements shown on the drawings does not always reflect their actual size ratio.

[ first embodiment ] A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device

A camera apparatus according to a first exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 1 to 6.

(1) Overview

As shown in fig. 1, the camera apparatus 1 according to the embodiment includes a camera module 3, and a pan driving unit 30a, a tilt driving unit 30b, and a first roll driving unit 30c for driving a first module (hereinafter also referred to as "movable unit") that holds the camera module 3 thereon. The camera apparatus 1 further includes a gyro sensor 130 and an acceleration sensor 131 for detecting movement of the camera apparatus 1. For example, the camera apparatus 1 controls the pan drive unit 30a, the tilt drive unit 30b, and the first roll drive unit 30c based on the detection results of the gyro sensor 130, the acceleration sensor 131, and the magnetic sensor 92 (see fig. 5). This allows the camera apparatus 1 to be used as a camera apparatus having a stabilizer that reduces unnecessary vibration of the camera module 3.

The camera apparatus 1 is cylindrical in appearance (see fig. 2A), and includes an image capturing unit body 10a having a camera module 3, first and second modules (movable units) 10 and 20a, and a mounting unit 100.

In the image capturing unit body 10a, the camera module 3, the movable unit 10, the second module 20a, and the mount unit 100 are arranged in this order along the optical axis 1a of the camera module 3 (see fig. 2A). In addition, a lens cover 10B is provided at the tip of the camera module 3 (see fig. 2B).

The second module 20a of the image capturing unit body 10a is provided with the movable unit 10 in which the camera module 3 is located at one of the two ends of the second module 20a along the optical axis 1a of the camera module 3 (see fig. 3A). The mount unit 100 is fitted to the second module 20a at the other of the two ends along the optical axis 1a of the movable unit 10.

The mount unit 100 electromagnetically drives the image capturing unit body 10a to rotate about the optical axis 1a of the camera module 3 with respect to the mount unit 100 itself, wherein the movable range is expanded to 360 degrees or more.

The camera apparatus 1 further includes an operation unit 5 having a plurality of operation buttons 5a, 5b (see fig. 2A). The user is allowed to operate the camera module 3 using the operation unit 5, such as starting or ending shooting.

(2) Structure of the device

Next, the functional configuration of the camera apparatus 1 according to this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to fig. 1.

The camera apparatus 1 may be, for example, a portable camera, and includes an actuator 2 and a camera module 3. The camera module 3 can be rotated by the actuator 2 in the tilt, pan and roll directions. The actuator 2 serves as a stabilizer for driving the camera module 3 in any desired rotational direction while reducing unnecessary vibrations of the camera module 3.

The camera apparatus 1 includes a camera module 3, a pan driving unit 30a, a tilt driving unit 30b, and a first roll driving unit 30c, a gyro sensor 130, and an acceleration sensor 131, and a control unit 110. In this embodiment, the camera apparatus 1 further includes: a movable unit 10 for holding the camera module 3 (see fig. 3A); a fixed unit 20 for rotatably supporting the movable unit 10 (see fig. 3A); and a second tumble driving unit 35. In the example shown in fig. 1, the camera apparatus 1 further includes a first driver unit 120, a second driver unit 121, and a battery 150. The pan drive unit 30a, the tilt drive unit 30b, the first roll drive unit 30c, the second roll drive unit 35, the gyro sensor 130, the acceleration sensor 131, the control unit 110, the first driver unit 120, and the second driver unit 121 together form the actuator 2.

The camera apparatus 1 further includes a first holding mechanism 140 (see fig. 1). The fixed unit 20 movably holds the movable unit 10 by the first holding mechanism 140. The movable unit 10 and the fixed unit 20 will be described in detail later.

The camera apparatus 1 further includes a second holding mechanism 141 for holding the image capturing unit body 10a such that the image capturing unit body 10a can rotate about the optical axis 1a with respect to the mount unit 100, wherein the movable range is expanded to 360 degrees or more (see fig. 1). The mount unit 100 holds the image capturing unit body 10a by a second holding mechanism 141 rotatable about the optical axis 1 a. The second holding mechanism 141 may be realized as a bearing, for example, and is provided for mounting the unit 100. In this embodiment, two second holding mechanisms 141 are arranged side by side on the inner peripheral surface of the mounting unit 100 along the optical axis 1a so as to insert second roll driving magnets 36 (described later) included in the second roll driving unit 35 (see fig. 2B). This allows the camera apparatus 1 to hold the image capturing unit body 10a so that the image capturing unit body 10a can rotate relative to the mount unit 100.

The camera module 3 includes an image sensor 3a (see fig. 4). The camera module 3 converts video generated on an image capturing plane of the image sensor 3a into a video signal as an electric signal. In addition, a plurality of cables for transmitting an electric signal (video signal) generated by the image sensor 3a to a camera control unit 112 (described later) are electrically connected to the camera module 3 through connectors.

The pan driving unit 30a, the tilt driving unit 30b, and the first roll driving unit 30c drive the movable unit 10 so that the movable unit 10 moves relative to the fixed unit 20. The pan driving unit 30a, the tilt driving unit 30b, and the first roll driving unit 30c are electromagnetic drivers for driving the movable unit 10 by energizing the coils. The movable unit 10 holds the camera module 3. Thus, the driving unit 30 that drives the movable unit 10 moves the camera module 3 together with the movable unit 10.

In this embodiment, the movable unit 10 (camera module 3) is configured to be movable relative to the fixed unit 20 in at least two directions selected from the group consisting of a panning direction, a tilting direction, and a rolling direction. Hereinafter, the moving direction of the movable unit 10 that rotates about the optical axis 1a (see fig. 3A) of the camera module 3 will be referred to as "rolling direction". Hereinafter, the moving direction of the movable unit 10 rotating about the X axis will be referred to as a "panning direction". Hereinafter, the moving direction of the movable unit 10 rotating about the Y axis will be referred to as "tilting direction". In a state where the movable unit 10 is not driven by the driving unit 30 (i.e., the state shown in fig. 3A), the X-axis and the Y-axis are perpendicular to each other.

The pan driving unit 30a includes a pan driving magnet 31a and a pan driving coil 32 a. Energizing the pan driving coil 32a causes the movable unit 10 to be driven in the pan direction, wherein electromagnetic force is applied to the pan driving magnet 31 a.

The tilt drive unit 30b includes a tilt drive magnet 31b and a tilt drive coil 32 b. Energizing the tilt driving coil 32b causes the movable unit 10 to be driven in the tilt direction, wherein electromagnetic force is applied to the tilt driving magnet 31 b.

The first roll driving unit 30c includes a first roll driving magnet 31c and a first roll driving coil 32 c. Energizing the first roll driving coil 32c causes the movable unit 10 to be driven in the roll direction, in which electromagnetic force is applied to the first roll driving magnet 31 c.

Note that the pan drive unit 30a, the tilt drive unit 30b, and the first roll drive unit 30c will be described in detail later.

The second roll driving unit 35 is configured to electromagnetically drive the fixing unit 20 to rotate about the optical axis 1a with respect to the mounting unit 100, wherein the movable range is expanded to 360 degrees or more. The second roll driving unit 35 may be implemented as, for example, a brushless motor, and includes a second roll driving magnet 36 and a second roll driving coil 37. A second roll driving magnet 36 is provided for mounting the unit 100, and a second roll driving coil 37 is provided for the second module 20 a. Energizing the second roll driving coil 37 causes the image capturing unit body 10a to be driven in the roll direction with respect to the mounting unit 100, wherein electromagnetic force is applied to the second roll driving magnet 36.

The second roll driving unit 35 will be described more specifically with reference to fig. 2B and 2C. Fig. 2C is a sectional view schematically showing a section taken along a plane including the line a-a and perpendicular to the optical axis 1 a. In fig. 2C, the configuration of the image capturing unit body 10a is simplified for convenience.

The image capturing unit body 10a includes an end portion 10c extending along the optical axis 1a and having a cylindrical shape with a central axis defined by the optical axis 1 a.

As shown in fig. 2C, a plurality of coils 37 are provided around the optical axis 1a and along the inner circumferential surface of the end portion 10C. Specifically, the image capturing unit body 10a includes, at the end portion 10c, a plurality of yokes 38a arranged around the optical axis 1a and along the inner circumferential surface of the end portion 10 c. The end portion 10C has a very small thickness (see fig. 2C), which prevents the gap between the second roll driving coil 37 and the second roll driving magnet 36 from being widened. In addition, the end 10c also prevents water from entering from the outside of the actuator 2. Winding a conductive wire on each of the plurality of yokes 38a allows the coil 37a to be formed.

In addition, as shown in fig. 2B and 2C, a plurality of magnets 36 are provided for the mounting unit 100 so as to be arranged along the circumference of another circle centered on the optical axis 1a and around the plurality of coils 37 a.

The second roll driving coil 37 described above is constituted by a plurality of coils 37 a. The second roll driving magnet 36 described above is constituted by a plurality of magnets 36 a. In short, the second roll driving unit 35 according to the embodiment is implemented as an outer rotor type brushless motor. Energizing the plurality of coils 37a causes the plurality of magnets 36a to rotate about the optical axis 1a with respect to the plurality of coils 37a, wherein the movable range is expanded to 360 degrees or more. In other words, the image capturing unit body 10a rotates relative to the mount unit 100.

The gyro sensor 130 is provided for the movable unit (first module) 10 to detect (sense) the orientation (i.e., tilt) of the camera apparatus 1. Specifically, the gyro sensor 130 detects respective angular velocities in the panning, tilting, and rolling directions of the movable unit 10. The gyro sensor 130 outputs the detection result to the drive control unit 111.

The acceleration sensor 131 is provided for the movable unit (first module) 10 to detect accelerations applied to the movable unit 10 in the panning, tilting, and rolling directions of the movable unit 10. The acceleration sensor 131 outputs the detection result to the drive control unit 111.

The control unit 110 includes, as its main constituent elements, a microcontroller including a processor and a memory, and performs the functions of the control unit 110 by causing its processor to execute a program stored in its memory. The program may be stored in the memory in advance. Alternatively, the program may also be downloaded over a telecommunication line (such as the internet), or distributed after having been stored on a storage medium (such as a memory card).

The control unit 110 performs a function as a drive control unit 111 and a function as a camera control unit 112. The drive control unit 111 drives the movable unit 10 by controlling the pan drive unit 30a, the tilt drive unit 30b, and the first roll drive unit 30 c. In addition, the drive control unit 111 also drives the mounting unit 100 by controlling the second tumble drive unit 35.

The drive control unit 111 controls the pan drive unit 30a, the tilt drive unit 30b, the first roll drive unit 30c, and the second roll drive unit 35 based on the detection results of the gyro sensor 130, the acceleration sensor 131, and the magnetic sensor 92 (see fig. 5).

The drive control unit 111 performs a process for compensating for judder of the camera module 3 caused by hand trembling of a photographer based on the angular velocity detected by the gyro sensor 130, the acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor 131, and a detection result of the magnetic sensor 92 (described later). Specifically, the drive control unit 111 calculates the rotation angle of the camera module 3 based on the respective detection results of the gyro sensor 130, the acceleration sensor 131, and the magnetic sensor 92.

The drive control unit 111 controls the pan drive unit 30a, the tilt drive unit 30b, the first roll drive unit 30c, and the second roll drive unit 35 such that the movable unit 10 faces a certain direction. Specifically, the drive control unit 111 causes the first driver unit 120 to control the pan drive unit 30a, the tilt drive unit 30b, and the first roll drive unit 30c to rotate the movable unit 10 to the obtained rotation angle. The drive control unit 111 generates a first drive signal for driving the movable unit 10 in the tilting, panning, and rolling directions based on the obtained rotation angle. The drive control unit 111 outputs the first drive signal to the first driver unit 120. Further, the drive control unit 111 causes the second driver unit 121 to control the second roll drive unit 35 to rotate the fixing unit 20 to the obtained rotation angle with respect to the mounting unit 100. The drive control unit 111 generates a second drive signal for rotating the fixing unit 20 in the rolling direction with respect to the mounting unit 100. Then, the drive control unit 111 outputs the second drive signal to the second driver unit 121.

The first driving signal is a signal generated by Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), and is used to drive the movable unit 10 by changing the duty ratio. The second driving signal is a three-phase AC signal generated by PWM and is used to drive the mounting unit 100 by varying AC frequency and amplitude.

The first drive signal and the second drive signal have the ability to control vibrations with a frequency of several Hz to several tens of Hz to allow the actuator 2 to function as a stabilizer.

In the above-described embodiment, the gyro sensor 130 is provided for the first module (movable unit) 10. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the gyro sensor 130 may be disposed in the second module 20a (the fixing unit 20). This allows the camera apparatus 1 to detect the orientation of the first module (movable unit) 10 based on the angle formed by the second module 20a (fixed unit 20) and detected by the gyro sensor 130 and based on the relative angle defined by the second module 20a with respect to the first module (movable unit) 10 and detected by the magnetic sensor 92.

The camera control unit 112 controls the camera module 3. For example, if the camera apparatus 1 accepts a user's command at the operation unit 5 that should start image capturing, the camera control unit 112 controls the camera module 3 to cause the camera module 3 to start capturing an image. Specifically, the camera control unit 112 starts processing the electric signal output from the image sensor 3 a. On the other hand, if the camera apparatus 1 accepts a user's command to suspend image capturing at the operation unit 5, the camera control unit 112 controls the camera module 3 to cause the camera module 3 to complete (suspend) capturing an image. The camera control unit 112 also has a capability of storing video data (video signal) in a built-in memory or a storage medium (such as a memory card) of the camera apparatus 1.

In the above-described embodiment, the drive control unit 111 and the camera control unit 112 are implemented as a single microcontroller. However, this configuration is merely an example, and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the camera control unit 112 may also be implemented as another microcontroller separately from the drive control unit 111.

The first driver unit 120 is a driver circuit that receives the first drive signal from the drive control unit 111 and instructs the pan drive unit 30a, the tilt drive unit 30b, and the first roll drive unit 30c to operate in accordance with the first drive signal. That is, the first driver unit 120 drives the movable unit 10 by supplying driving power to the pan driving unit 30a, the tilt driving unit 30b, and the first roll driving unit 30c according to the first driving signal.

The second driver unit 121 is a driver circuit that receives the second drive signal from the drive control unit 111 and instructs the second roll drive unit 35 to operate in accordance with the second drive signal. That is, the second driver unit 121 drives the mounting unit 100 by supplying driving power to the second roll driving unit 35 according to the second driving signal.

The battery 150 may be realized as a secondary battery, for example, and supplies power to drive the camera apparatus 1.

In this embodiment, as shown in fig. 1, the pan driving magnet 31a, the tilt driving magnet 31b, the first roll driving magnet 31c, the gyro sensor 130, and the acceleration sensor 131 together form the movable unit 10. The fixing unit 20, the second rolling driving coil 37, the second driver unit 121, and the battery 150 together form a second module 20 a. The pan driving coil 32a, the tilt driving coil 32b, the first roll driving coil 32c, the control unit 110, and the first driver unit 120 together form the fixed unit 20. Further, the second roll driving magnet 36 constitutes the mounting unit 100.

Accordingly, the second module 20a includes the fixing unit 20 and the second roll driving coil 37, and thus, a signal line required for rotational driving may be installed within the second module 20 a. That is, it is not necessary to extend the signal line to any external device (such as the mount unit 100) to drive the camera device 1 to rotate.

In addition, the second module 20a includes the second roll driving coil 37 (i.e., the plurality of coils 37a) and the battery 150, and thus, a wire for supplying power to the second roll driving coil 37 may be installed within the second module 20 a. Furthermore, a second holding mechanism 141, realized as a bearing, is provided for mounting the unit 100. These electrical and mechanical configurations allow the plurality of magnets 36a to rotate about the optical axis 1a with respect to the plurality of coils 37a, wherein the movable range is expanded to more than 360 degrees. In other words, these electrical and mechanical configurations allow the image capturing unit body 10a to rotate relative to the mounting unit 100.

(3) Exemplary Structure of Camera device

Next, specific structures of the camera apparatus 1 (in particular, exemplary structures of the movable unit 10 and the fixed unit 20) according to this embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 3A to 6.

The camera module 3 includes an image sensor 3a, a lens 3b for forming an object image on an image capturing plane of the image sensor 3a, and a lens barrel 3c for holding the lens 3b (see fig. 4). The lens barrel 3c protrudes from the actuator 2 along the optical axis 1a of the camera module 3. The lens barrel 3c has a circular cross section when taken perpendicularly to the optical axis 1 a. Also, the plurality of cables electrically connected to the camera module 3 include coplanar waveguides or microstrip lines. Alternatively, the plurality of cables may include fine line coaxial cables each having the same length. These cables are grouped into a predetermined number of cable bundles 11.

As shown in fig. 3A and 4, the camera apparatus 1 includes an upper ring 4, a movable unit 10, a fixed unit 20, a driving unit 30, and a printed circuit board 90.

The movable unit 10 includes a camera holder 40, a first movable base 41, and a second movable base 42 (see fig. 6). The movable unit 10 is fitted to the fixed unit 20 with a certain gap left between the movable unit 10 and the fixed unit 20. The movable unit 10 rotates (i.e., rolls) about the optical axis 1a of the lens of the camera module 3 with respect to the fixed unit 20.

In the following description, the position of the movable unit 10 (camera module 3) that is not driven by the driving unit 30 (i.e., the position shown in fig. 3A and other figures) is defined herein as a "neutral position". In this embodiment, the direction in which the optical axis 1a extends when the movable unit 10 is at the neutral position is hereinafter referred to as "Z-axis direction". The Z-axis direction is aligned with the fitting direction in which the movable unit 10 is fitted to the fixed unit 20. Further, the direction in which the lens barrel 3c protrudes from the movable unit 10 along the Z axis is hereinafter referred to as an "upward direction". That is, the movable unit 10 in the neutral position can rotate about the Z-axis. The movable unit 10 also rotates about the X-axis and the Y-axis with respect to the fixed unit 20. In this case, both the X-axis and the Y-axis are perpendicular to the Z-axis. In addition, the X-axis and the Y-axis are perpendicular to each other.

In the following description, the direction in which the movable unit 10 (camera module 3) rotates about the X axis is defined herein as a "pan direction", and the direction in which the movable unit 10 (camera module 3) rotates about the Y axis is defined herein as a "tilt direction". Further, a direction in which the movable unit 10 (camera module 3) rotates (rolls) around the optical axis 1a is defined as "rolling direction". The detailed configuration of the movable unit 10 will be described later. Note that the optical axis 1a and all of the X, Y, and Z axes are imaginary axes, and arrows indicating the X, Y, and Z axes on the drawings are shown there for description only and are non-solid arrows. It should also be noted that these directions should not be interpreted as limiting the directions in which the camera device 1 is used.

The camera module 3 is attached to the camera holding frame 40. The configuration of the first movable base 41 and the second movable base 42 will be described later. The rotation of the movable unit 10 allows the camera module 3 to also rotate.

The fixing unit 20 includes a coupling member 50 and a body 51 (see fig. 5).

The coupling member 50 includes a linear coupling rod 501 and a loose-fitting member 502 (see fig. 6). The coupling rod 501 has an opening 503 through the middle of its length. The loose fitting member 502 includes a base 504 and a wall 505 (see fig. 6). The base 504 has a circular shape when viewed from above and downward (i.e., in plan view) of the base 504. One surface of the base 504 closer to the camera module 3 (i.e., the upper surface thereof) is a flat surface, and the other surface of the base 504 farther from the camera module 3 (i.e., the lower surface thereof) is a spherical surface. A central portion of the upper surface of the base 504 has a recess 506 (see fig. 6). The wall 505 protrudes upwardly from around the recess 506 of the base 504 (see fig. 6). An inner peripheral surface of the wall 505, i.e., a surface facing the recess 506, constitutes a second loose-fitting surface 507 (described later) (see fig. 6). The diameter of the outer periphery of the wall 505 is approximately equal to the diameter of the opening 503 of the coupling rod 501. The wall 505 fits into the opening 503 of the coupling rod 501.

The body 51 includes a pair of projections 510. The pair of protrusions 510 are disposed to face each other in a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis and forming a 45-degree angle with respect to the X-axis and the Y-axis. The pair of protrusions 510 is also provided so as to be located in a gap (described later) between the arranged first coil unit 52 and second coil unit 53. The coupling member 50 is screwed onto the body 51, with the second movable base 42 interposed between the coupling member itself and the body 51. Specifically, both longitudinal ends of the coupling member 50 are screwed to a pair of protrusions 510 of the body 51, respectively.

The body 51 is provided with two fixing portions 703 for fixing two cable bundles 11 thereto (see fig. 3A and 4). The two fixing portions 703 are arranged to face each other in a direction perpendicular to not only the Z axis but also a direction in which the pair of protruding portions 510 face each other. The two fixing portions 703 are provided to be inclined with respect to the Z axis so that the interval between the two fixing portions 703 becomes wider toward the camera module 3 in the Z axis direction (see fig. 5). Each of the two fixing portions 703 includes a first member 704 and a second member 705, both of which are formed in a plate shape. The associated cable bundle 11 is partially clamped between the first member 704 and the second member 705.

The fixed unit 20 includes a pair of first coil units 52 and a pair of second coil units 53 so that the movable unit 10 is electromagnetically drivable and rotatable (see fig. 3B). The pair of first coil units 52 face each other in the Y-axis direction. The pair of second coil units 53 face each other in the X-axis direction. A pair of first coil units 52 allows the movable unit 10 to rotate about the X-axis. The pair of second coil units 53 allows the movable unit 10 to rotate about the Y-axis.

Each of the pair of first coil units 52 includes a first yoke 710 made of a magnetic material, driving coils 720 and 730, and yoke holders 740 and 750 (see fig. 5). Each of the first yokes 710 has a circular arc shape, the center of which is defined by a rotation center 460 (see fig. 4). The driving coils 730 are each formed by winding a conductive wire on its associated first yoke 710 such that the winding direction thereof is defined around the X-axis (i.e., the direction in which the second coil units 53 face each other) and a pair of first driving magnets 620 (described later) are driven to rotate in the roll direction. As used herein, in this embodiment, the winding direction of the coil refers to a direction in which the number of turns increases. Further, the yoke holders 740 and 750 are fixed to both sides of the first yoke 710 with screws. Thereafter, the driving coils 720 are each formed by winding a conductive wire on its associated first yoke 710 such that the winding direction thereof is defined around the Z-axis, and the pair of first driving magnets 620 are driven to rotate in the panning direction. Then, a pair of first coil units 52 are fixed to the body 51 with screws so as to face each other when viewed from the camera module 3. Specifically, each of the first coil units 52 has one end thereof (i.e., the end opposite to the camera module 3) screwed to the body 51 along the Z-axis. Each of the first coil units 52 has its other end portion (i.e., the end portion closer to the camera module 3) fitted to the upper ring 4 along the Z-axis.

The pair of second coil units 53 each include a second yoke 711, driving coils 721 and 731, and yoke holders 741 and 751 (see fig. 5) made of a magnetic material. Each of the second yokes 711 has a circular arc shape, the center of which is defined by a rotation center 460 (see fig. 4). Each of the driving coils 731 is formed by winding a conductive wire on its associated second yoke 711 such that the winding direction thereof is defined around the Y-axis (i.e., the direction in which the first coil units 52 face each other) and a pair of second driving magnets 621 (described later) are driven to rotate in the roll direction. Further, the yoke holders 741 and 751 are fixed to both sides of the second yoke 711 with screws. Thereafter, the driving coils 721 are each formed by winding a conductive wire on its associated second yoke 711 such that the winding direction thereof is defined around the Z-axis, and the pair of second driving magnets 621 are driven to rotate in the tilting direction. Then, a pair of second coil units 53 are fixed to the body 51 with screws so as to face each other when viewed from the camera module 3. Specifically, each of the second coil units 53 has one end portion thereof (i.e., the end portion opposite to the camera module 3) screwed to the body 51 along the Z-axis. Each of the second coil units 53 has its other end (i.e., the end closer to the camera module 3) fitted to the upper ring 4 along the Z-axis.

The camera holder 40 on which the camera module 3 has been mounted is fixed to the first movable base 41 with screws. The coupling member 50 is interposed between the first movable base 41 and the second movable base 42.

The printed circuit board 90 includes a plurality of (e.g., four in this embodiment) magnetic sensors 92 for detecting the rotational position of the camera module 3 in the pan and tilt directions. In this embodiment, the magnetic sensor 92 may be implemented as, for example, a hall element. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the magnetic sensor 92 may also be a sensor using, for example, a magnetoresistive element or a coil.

On the printed circuit board 90, circuits for controlling the amount of current flowing through the driving coils 720, 721, 730, and 731, and other circuits are also assembled. Examples of other circuits assembled on the printed circuit board 90 include a circuit having the capability of the first driver unit 120 shown in fig. 1 and a circuit having the capability of the second driver unit 121 shown in fig. 1. A microcontroller or any other microprocessor may also be built on the printed circuit board 90. In other words, although not shown in fig. 4, 5 and other drawings, the control unit 110 is provided for the printed circuit board 90.

Next, the detailed configuration of the first movable base 41 and the second movable base 42 will be described.

The first movable base 41 includes a body 43, a pair of holding portions 44, a loose fitting member 45, and a ball 46 (see fig. 6). The body 43 sandwiches the rigid part 12 between itself and the camera holding frame 40 to fix (hold) the rigid part 12 thereon. The respective holding portions 44 are provided for the outer peripheral edge of the body 43 so as to face each other (refer to fig. 6). Each holding portion 44 clamps and holds the associated cable bundle 11 between itself and the side wall 431 of the body 43 (see fig. 4). The loose fitting member 45 has a through hole 451 (see fig. 4) passing through the loose fitting member 45 in the Z-axis direction. The inner peripheral surface of the through-hole 451 is tapered such that the through-hole 451 increases its diameter along the Z-axis in a direction away from the camera module 3.

The ball 46 is fitted and fixed into the through hole 451 of the loose fitting member 45, and has a first loose fitting surface 461 as a convex spherical surface (see fig. 4). The ball 46 is loosely fitted to the loose fitting member 502 such that a narrow gap is left between the first loose fitting surface 461 and the second loose fitting surface 507 (i.e., the inner peripheral surface of the wall 505) of the loose fitting member 502. This allows the coupling member 50 to pivotally support the movable unit 10 so that the movable unit 10 can rotate. Pivotally supporting the movable unit 10 not only allows the movable unit 10 to freely rotate in the pan and tilt directions, but also reduces friction during rotation due to a small contact area. In this case, the center of mass of the sphere 46 defines the center of rotation 460 of the movable unit 10. This configuration for pivotally supporting the movable unit 10 to allow the movable unit 10 to freely rotate corresponds to the above-described first holding mechanism 140.

The second movable base 42 supports the first movable base 41. The second movable base 42 includes a back yoke 610, a pair of first driving magnets 620, and a pair of second driving magnets 621 (see fig. 6). The second movable base 42 further includes a bottom plate 640, a position detecting magnet 650, and a stopper member 651 (see fig. 6).

The back yoke 610 includes a circular plate portion and four fixing portions (arms) extending from an outer peripheral portion of the circular plate portion toward the camera module 3 (i.e., upward). Two of the four fixing portions face each other along the X axis, and the other two fixing portions face each other along the Y axis. The two fixing portions facing each other along the Y axis face the pair of first coil units 52, respectively. The two fixing portions facing each other along the X axis face the pair of second coil units 53, respectively.

The pair of first driving magnets 620 are respectively fixed to two fixing portions facing each other along the Y-axis among the four fixing portions of the back yoke 610. The pair of second driving magnets 621 are fixed to two fixing portions facing each other along the X-axis among the four fixing portions of the back yoke 610, respectively.

The electromagnetic drive by the first driving magnet 620 and the first coil unit 52 and the electromagnetic drive by the second driving magnet 621 and the second coil unit 53 allow the movable unit 10 (camera module 3) to rotate in the panning, tilting, and rolling directions. Specifically, the electromagnetic drive by the two drive coils 720 and the two first drive magnets 620 allows the movable unit 10 to rotate in the panning direction, and the electromagnetic drive by the two drive coils 721 and the two second drive magnets 621 allows the movable unit 10 to rotate in the tilting direction. Meanwhile, the electromagnetic driving by the two driving coils 730 and the two first driving magnets 620 and the electromagnetic driving by the two driving coils 731 and the two second driving magnets 621 allow the movable unit 10 to rotate in the rolling direction.

The bottom plate 640 is a non-magnetic member, and may be made of, for example, brass. The bottom plate 640 is attached to the back yoke 610 to define the bottom of the movable unit 10 (i.e., the bottom of the second movable base 42). The bottom plate 640 is fixed to the back yoke 610 and the first movable base 41 by screws. The bottom plate 640 serves as a weight. Having the bottom plate 640 serve as a counterweight allows the center of rotation 460 to coincide with the center of gravity of the mobile unit 10. Therefore, when an external force is applied to the entire movable unit 10, the rotational moment of the movable unit 10 about the X axis and the rotational moment of the movable unit 10 about the Y axis are both reduced. This allows the movable unit 10 (or the camera module 3) to be held in a neutral position or to rotate about the X-axis and the Y-axis with a small driving force.

One surface (i.e., an upper surface) of the bottom plate 640 located closer to the camera module 3 is a flat surface, and a central portion of the upper surface has a protrusion 641. The protrusion 641 has a concave portion 642 at the tip. The bottom of the concave portion 642 is a curved surface protruding downward. The loose-fitting member 502 is positioned closer to the camera module 3 than the concave portion 642 (i.e., is arranged above the concave portion) (see fig. 4).

The other surface (i.e., the lower surface) of the bottom plate 640 located farther from the camera module 3 is a spherical surface, and the central portion of the lower surface has a concave portion. In the recess, a position detection magnet 650 and a stopper member 651 (see fig. 4) are arranged. The stopper member 651 prevents the position detection magnet 650 disposed in the recess of the bottom plate 640 from falling.

A gap is left between the concave portion 642 of the bottom plate 640 and the loose fitting member 502 (see fig. 4). The bottom of the concave portion 642 of the bottom plate 640 and the lower surface of the base portion 504 of the loose-fitting member 502 are curved surfaces facing each other. The gap is wide enough to allow the first and second driving magnets 620 and 621 to return to their home positions due to their own magnetism even when the loose-fitting member 502 is in contact with the bottom plate 640. Therefore, even if the camera module 3 has moved along the Z-axis, the movable unit 10 (camera module 3) can still return to its home position.

The four magnetic sensors 92 provided for the printed circuit board 90 detect relative rotation (movement) of the movable unit 10 with respect to the fixed unit 20 based on the relative positions of the position detection magnets 650 with respect to the four magnetic sensors 92. That is, when the movable unit 10 rotates (moves), the position detecting magnet 650 changes its position, thereby causing a change in the magnetic force applied to the four magnetic sensors 92. The four magnetic sensors 92 detect such a change in magnetic force, and calculate two-dimensional rotation angles about the X axis and the Y axis. This allows the four magnetic sensors 92 to detect the rotation angles of the movable unit 10 in the tilting and panning directions.

Alternatively, the rotation of the movable unit 10 in the rolling direction may be estimated by a force (i.e., by a so-called "magnetic spring") that causes the movable unit 10 to try to return to the origin (i.e., a stable point) under the magnetic attraction generated between the movable unit and the fixed unit 20. That is, the camera apparatus 1 may estimate the relative rotation (movement) of the movable unit 10 with respect to the fixed unit 20 in the roll direction based on the driving signal or the DC component (low-frequency component) of the signal output from the first driver unit 120 to the driving coils 730 and 731.

In this case, the pair of first driving magnets 620 serves as an attracting magnet, thereby generating a first magnetic attractive force between the pair of first driving magnets 620 and the first yoke 710 facing the first driving magnets 620. The pair of second driving magnets 621 also serve as attracting magnets, thereby generating a second magnetic attractive force between the pair of second driving magnets 621 and the second yoke 711 facing the second driving magnets 621. The vector direction of each of the first magnetic attractive forces is parallel to a center line connecting together the rotation center 460, the center of mass of the associated one of the first yokes 710, and the center of mass of the associated one of the first driving magnets 620. The vector direction of each of the second magnetic attractive forces is parallel to a center line connecting together the rotation center, the centroid of the associated one of the second yokes 711 and the centroid of the associated one of the second drive magnets 621.

The first magnetic attractive force and the second magnetic attractive force become normal forces generated by the same unit 20 with respect to the spherical body 46 of the loose fitting member 502. Also, when the movable unit 10 is in the neutral position, the magnetic attractive force of the movable unit 10 defines a resultant vector in the Z-axis direction. This force balance between the first magnetic attractive force, the second magnetic attractive force, and the resultant vector is similar to the dynamic configuration of a balancing toy, and allows the movable unit 10 to rotate in three axis directions with good stability.

In this embodiment, a pair of first coil units 52, a pair of second coil units 53, a pair of first driving magnets 620, and a pair of second driving magnets 621 together form the driving unit 30. The driving unit 30 includes a pan driving unit 30a, a tilt driving unit 30b, and a first roll driving unit 30 c.

The pan driving unit 30a is constituted by a pair of first yokes 710 and a pair of driving coils 720 included in the pair of first coil units 52 and a pair of first driving magnets 620. That is, the pair of first driving magnets 620 corresponds to the pan driving magnet 31a, and the pair of driving coils 720 corresponds to the pan driving coil 32 a.

The tilting drive unit 30b is constituted by a pair of second yokes 711 and a pair of drive coils 721 and a pair of second drive magnets 621 included in the pair of second coil units 53. That is, the pair of second driving magnets 621 corresponds to the tilting driving magnet 31b, and the pair of driving coils 721 corresponds to the tilting driving coil 32 b.

The first tumble drive unit 30c is configured by a pair of first drive magnets 620, a pair of second drive magnets 621, a pair of first yokes 710, a pair of second yokes 711, a pair of drive coils 730, and a pair of drive coils 731. That is, the pair of first driving magnets 620 and the pair of second driving magnets 621 correspond to the first roll driving magnet 31c, and the pair of driving coils 730 and the pair of driving coils 731 correspond to the first roll driving coil 32 c.

The camera apparatus 1 of this embodiment allows the movable unit 10 to perform two-dimensional (i.e., pan and tilt) rotation by simultaneously supplying power to the pair of driving coils 720 and the pair of driving coils 721. In addition, the camera apparatus 1 also allows the movable unit 10 to rotate (i.e., roll) about the optical axis 1a by simultaneously supplying electric power to the pair of driving coils 730 and the pair of driving coils 731.

In the above-described embodiment, it is assumed that the image capturing unit body 10a is rotated about the optical axis 1a with respect to the mount unit 100, wherein the movable range is expanded to 360 degrees or more. However, this configuration is merely an example, and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the image capturing unit body 10a may also be rotated about the X axis or the Y axis with respect to the mount unit 100, wherein the movable range is expanded to 360 degrees or more. For example, the plurality of coils 37a may be arranged in the image capturing unit body 10a along the circumference of a circle centered on the X-axis (or Y-axis). The plurality of magnets 36a may be arranged in the mounting unit 100 along the circumference of a circle centered on the X-axis (or Y-axis) to surround the plurality of coils 37 a.

[ second embodiment ]

A camera apparatus according to a second exemplary embodiment will be described. In the camera apparatus according to the second embodiment, the second module 20a may be divided into two modules, which is a main difference from the above-described first embodiment.

A second embodiment will now be described with reference to fig. 7 to 8B. The following description will focus on the differences of the second embodiment from the first embodiment. In the following description, any constituent element of this second embodiment that has the same function as the counterpart of the above-described first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numeral as that of the counterpart, and the description thereof will be appropriately omitted herein.

As shown in fig. 7, the camera apparatus 1 according to the embodiment includes a camera module 3, a movable unit (first module) 10, a second module 20a, and a mounting unit 100 a.

The second module 20a according to this embodiment includes a third module 20b and a fourth module 20 c.

The third module 20b rotatably holds the movable unit 10 by the first holding mechanism 140. That is, the first module (movable unit) 10 is loosely fitted to the third module 20b by the first holding mechanism 140.

The third module 20b is attachable to and removable from the fourth module 20 c. In addition, the third module 20b further includes a conductive connection member 145 electrically connected to the driving control unit 111 of the control unit 110 and the battery 150.

The camera module 3, the movable unit 10, and the third module 20b together form a cylindrical image capturing unit body 160 as shown in fig. 8A.

The image capturing unit body 160 includes a pan driving unit 30a, a tilt driving unit 30b, and a first roll driving unit 30 c. Specifically, the movable unit 10 includes a pan driving magnet 31a, a tilt driving magnet 31b, and a first roll driving magnet 31 c. The third module 20b includes a pan drive coil 32a, a tilt drive coil 32b and a first roll drive coil 32 c. The third module 20b includes a control unit 110, a first driver unit 120, and a battery 150.

The fourth module 20c includes a second roll driving coil 37 for the second roll driving unit 35 and a battery 151. The battery 151 may be implemented as, for example, a storage battery, and supplies electric power to the circuit when the third module 20b is attached to the fourth module 20c together with the battery 150. The fourth module 20c includes a conductive connection member 146 electrically connected to the second driver unit 121 and the battery 151.

The fourth module 20c has a cylindrical shape with an opening 20d to which the image capturing unit body 160 can be attached, as shown in fig. 8A. The fourth module 20c includes a lock mechanism for preventing the image capturing unit body 160 (the third module 20b) that has been inserted into the opening 20d from falling. Locking the attached third module 20b by the locking mechanism prevents the third module 20b from falling off the fourth module 20 c. When it is desired to remove the third module 20b from the fourth module 20c, only the locking mechanism needs to be unlocked.

A mounting unit 100a having a tool to be used by the photographer to capture his or her own image (i.e., a so-called "selfie stick") can be attached to the fourth module 20 c. The mounting unit 100a is fitted (i.e., attached) to surround the outer peripheral portion of the fourth module 20c and hold the fourth module 20c thereon.

When the third module 20b is attached to the fourth module 20c, the connection member 145 of the third module 20b and the connection member 146 of the fourth module 20c are connected to each other. This allows the third module 20b and the fourth module 20c to be electrically connected together. Specifically, the second driver unit 121, the battery 151, and the third module 20b are electrically connected together, and the drive control unit 111, the battery 150, and the fourth module 20c are also electrically connected together.

The camera apparatus 1 according to the embodiment further includes a second holding mechanism 141a for holding the image capturing unit body 160 such that the image capturing unit body 160 is rotatable about the optical axis 1a with respect to the mount unit 100a, wherein the movable range is expanded to 360 degrees or more (see fig. 8A). The mount unit 100a holds the image capturing unit body 160 by a second holding mechanism 141a that is rotatable about the optical axis 1 a. The second holding mechanism 141a may be implemented as, for example, a bearing. In this embodiment, two second holding mechanisms 141a are arranged on the inner peripheral surface of the mounting unit 100a along the optical axis 1a so as to insert the second roll driving magnets 36 included in the second roll driving unit 35 (see fig. 8A). This allows the camera apparatus 1 to hold the image capturing unit body 160 so that the image capturing unit body 160 can rotate relative to the mount unit 100 a.

The second roll driving unit 35 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 8A and 8B. Fig. 8B is a sectional view schematically showing a section taken along a plane including the line B-B and perpendicular to the optical axis 1 a. Note that in fig. 8B, the configuration of the image capturing unit body 160 is not shown in detail for convenience, but is indicated only by hatching.

As shown in fig. 8B, the fourth module 20c is provided with a plurality of coils 37B arranged along the circumference of a circle centered on the optical axis 1 a. Specifically, the fourth module 20c includes a plurality of yokes 38b arranged along the circumference of a circle centered on the optical axis 1 a. Winding a conductive wire on each of the plurality of yokes 38b allows the coil 37b to be formed.

In addition, as shown in fig. 8B, a plurality of magnets 36B are provided for the mounting unit 100a to be arranged along the circumference of another circle centered on the optical axis 1a and to surround the plurality of coils 37B.

The fourth module 20c has a very small thickness (see fig. 8B), which prevents the gap between the second roll driving coil 37 and the second roll driving magnet 36 from being widened.

The second roll driving coil 37 according to this embodiment is constituted by a plurality of coils 37 b. The second roll driving magnet 36 according to this embodiment is constituted by a plurality of magnets 36 b. In short, the second roll driving unit 35 according to the embodiment is implemented as an outer rotor type brushless motor. Energizing the plurality of coils 37b causes the plurality of magnets 36b to rotate about the optical axis 1a with respect to the plurality of coils 37b, wherein the movable range is expanded to 360 degrees or more. In other words, the image capturing unit body 160 rotates with respect to the mounting unit 100 a.

In this embodiment, the second module 20a is constituted by a third module 20b and a fourth module 20c, and the third module 20b is attachable to or removable from the fourth module 20 c. However, this configuration is merely an example, and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the second module 20a may also be implemented as an integrated module that is not separable into two modules.

Alternatively, the configuration of this embodiment may be applied to the camera apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. That is, in the camera apparatus 1 described as the first embodiment, the second module 20a may be constituted by the third module 20b and the fourth module 20c, and the third module 20b is attachable to and removable from the fourth module 20 c.

In addition, in the camera apparatus 1 according to the above-described embodiment, when being attached to the fourth module 20c, it is assumed that the third module 20b is attached along the optical axis 1a of the camera module 3. However, this configuration is merely an example, and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the third module 20b may be attached to the fourth module 20c along the X-axis or the Y-axis, i.e., also along the direction perpendicular to the optical axis 1 a.

In this case, both end portions perpendicular to the insertion direction at the tip of the fourth module 20c may have cutouts 20e so that the third module 20b may be attached perpendicularly to the optical axis 1a (see fig. 9). Making the outer peripheral portion of the image capturing unit body 160 (third module 20b) abut on the cutout 20e allows the image capturing unit body 160 (third module 20b) to be attached to the fourth module 20c perpendicularly to the optical axis 1 a. In this case, a mechanism similar to the above-described locking mechanism also prevents the attached third module 20b from falling. In addition, the third module 20b and the fourth module 20c are configured to be electrically connected together when the third module 20b is attached to the fourth module 20c in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis 1 a.

Alternatively, the control unit 110 may detect an attachment mode of the image capturing unit body 160 (the third module 20b) and the fourth module 20 c. For example, if the electrical connection point between the third module 20b and the fourth module 20c is changed according to the attachment mode, the attachment mode is distinguishable. Detecting the attachment mode allows switching the axis of the gyro sensor 130 for controlling the second roll driving unit 35, thereby making the actuator 2 more convenient for the user.

Alternatively, according to this embodiment, the third module 20b may include an attachment/removal detection unit for detecting attachment or removal of the image capturing unit body 160 (the third module 20b) to or from the fourth module 20 c. In this case, when the attachment to the fourth module 20c is detected, the third module 20b disables the rotation in the roll direction by the first roll driving unit 30 c. On the other hand, when removal from the fourth module 20c is detected, the third module 20b enables rotation in the roll direction by the first roll driving unit 30 c. This allows power to be saved when the third module 20b is attached to the fourth module 20 c.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the battery 151 is provided for the fourth module 20 c. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the battery 151 may be provided for the mounting unit 100 a. Still alternatively, the battery 151 may also be provided for both the fourth module 20c and the mounting unit 100 a. Providing a battery for either or both of the fourth module 20c or the mounting unit 100a reduces the overall weight when the image capturing unit body 160 is used alone and allows the actuator 2 to be used for a longer period of time when the image capturing unit body 160 is used to attach to the fourth module 20 c.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the battery 151 is commonly used for the third module 20b and the fourth module 20 c. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the battery 151 may be dedicated to the fourth module 20 c. In this case, only the second driving signal is supplied from the third module 20b, and the power for driving the second roll driving coil 37 is supplied from the battery 151 of the fourth module 20 c. This makes the voltages supplied by the third module 20b and the fourth module 20c different from each other, allowing the second roll driving coil 37 to have a large inertial force and require a high power in order to be driven at a high voltage.

As in the first embodiment described above, in this embodiment as well, the second module 20a includes the fixed unit 20 and the second roll driving coil 37, and therefore, the signal lines necessary for the rotational driving can be installed in the second module 20 a. This eliminates the need to extend a signal line to any external device (such as the mounting unit 100a) to drive the actuator 2 to rotate.

In addition, the second module 20a includes the second roll driving coil 37 (i.e., the plurality of coils 37b) and the battery 150, and thus, a wire for supplying power to the second roll driving coil 37 may be installed within the second module 20 a. In addition, a second holding mechanism 141 implemented as a bearing is provided for the mounting unit 100 a. These electrical and mechanical configurations allow the plurality of magnets 36b to rotate about the optical axis 1a with respect to the plurality of coils 37b, wherein the movable range is expanded to more than 360 degrees. In other words, these electrical and mechanical configurations allow the image capturing unit body 160 to rotate relative to the mounting unit 100 a.

[ PROFILE EXAMPLES ]

Note that the above-described embodiments are merely examples of various embodiments of the present disclosure, and should not be construed as limiting. On the contrary, the embodiments may be easily modified in various ways according to design choice or any other factors without departing from the scope of the present invention.

In the above-described embodiment, the second roll driving unit 35 is appropriately disposed in the vicinity of the center of gravity of the movable unit 10 and the fixed unit 20. This reduces imbalance of force applied to the second holding mechanism 141(141a) and stabilizes frictional resistance during rotation, thereby extending the life of the actuator.

In the above-described embodiment, the second tumble drive unit 35 is implemented as a brushless motor. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, second tumble drive unit 35 may also be implemented as a brush motor.

In the above-described embodiment, the movable unit 10 is configured to be rotatable in three axis directions (i.e., the panning direction, the tilting direction, and the rolling direction) with respect to the fixed unit 20. However, this configuration is merely an example, and should not be construed as limiting. The movable unit 10 only needs to be rotatable with respect to the fixed unit in at least two axis directions among three axis directions, which are the panning, tilting, and rolling directions. In particular, the movable unit 10 may be configured to be rotatable with respect to the fixed unit in at least pan and tilt directions.

In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the second holding mechanism 141(141a) is implemented as a bearing. However, this configuration is merely an example, and should not be construed as limiting. Rather, the second holding mechanism 141(141a) only needs to be a mechanism having the capability of rotatably holding the image capturing unit body 10a (160).

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the movable unit 10 is pivotally supported by the coupling member 50 of the fixed unit 20 so that the movable unit 10 is rotatable. However, this is not the only configuration that allows the fixed unit 20 to hold the movable unit 10 so that the movable unit 10 is rotatable (movable). Alternatively, the movable unit 10 may also have a convex partial spherical surface, and may be rotatably supported by the fixed unit 20 having a recess in which at least a portion of the movable unit 10 is loosely fitted. This allows the movable unit 10 to freely rotate in the pan and tilt directions. In addition, this also widens the space in which the camera module 3 is accommodated in the movable unit 10.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the actuator 2 is combined with the camera module 3. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the actuator 2 may also be combined with a laser pointer, a projector, a haptic device, or any other type of device.

[ SUMMARY ] to

As can be seen from the above description, the actuator (2) according to the first aspect includes a first module (10), a second module (20a), and a mounting unit (100, 100 a). The first module (10) includes a first magnet (such as the pan driving magnet 31a) and a second magnet (such as the tilt driving magnet 31 b). The second module (20a) supports the first module (10) such that the first module (10) is rotatable about each of a first axis (such as an X-axis) and a second axis (such as a Y-axis) perpendicular to the first axis. The mounting unit (100, 100a) includes a third magnet, such as the second roll driving magnet 36, and supports the second module (20a) such that the second module (20a) is rotatable. The second module (20a) has a movable range of 360 degrees or more with respect to the mounting unit (100, 100 a). The second module (20a) includes a first coil (such as a pan drive coil 32a), a second coil (such as a tilt drive coil 32b), and a third coil (such as a second roll drive coil 37). The first coil electromagnetically drives the first module (10) to rotate about the first axis relative to the second module (20a) by generating a magnetic force between the first coil itself and the first magnet. The second coil electromagnetically drives the first module (10) to rotate about the second axis relative to the second module (20a) by generating a magnetic force between the second coil itself and the second magnet. The third coil electromagnetically drives the mounting unit (100, 100a) to rotate relative to the second module (20a) by generating a magnetic force between the third coil itself and the third magnet.

According to this configuration, respective coils to be supplied with electric power to electromagnetically drive the actuator are provided for the second module (20a), thereby reducing the chance of overcomplicating the wiring scheme. In addition, the second module has a movable range of 360 degrees or more, which is wider than a known movable range. This allows the actuator (2) to have a wide movable range while simplifying the wiring scheme.

In addition, in a known actuator (such as a camera driver of patent document 1 cited in the background art), the camera unit has only a limited movable range. In particular, when the camera unit is rotated in the roll direction, the movable range is only about 5 degrees. Thus, the known actuators are of course suitable for movements of relatively small amplitude (such as walking or running), but not for movements of relatively large amplitude (such as high-altitude parachuting, acrobatic maneuvers and other heavy sports), dirtbike and the like. On the contrary, the above-described actuator (2) is capable of expanding the movable range, and is therefore also suitable for such movements of relatively large amplitude.

An actuator (2) according to a second aspect which may be realized in combination with the first aspect, further comprises a detection unit, such as a gyro sensor 130 or a magnetic sensor 92, to detect the orientation (10) of the first module. Based on the detection result of the detection unit, the rotational driving of the first module (10) about each of the first axis and the second axis is controlled.

This configuration allows the actuator (2) to control the rotational drive of the first module (10) according to the orientation of the first module (10) detected by the detection unit.

The actuator (2) according to a third aspect which may be realized in combination with the first or second aspect, further includes a sensor unit (such as an acceleration sensor 131) to detect an acceleration of the first module (10) or the second module (20 a). The first module (10) is controlled based on the results obtained by the sensor unit to face in a certain direction with respect to gravity.

This configuration allows the actuator (2) to control the first module (10) based on the results obtained by the sensor unit such that the first module (10) faces a certain direction with respect to gravity.

The actuator (2) according to a fourth aspect which can be implemented in combination with any one of the first to third aspects, further includes a first holding mechanism (140) and a second holding mechanism (141, 141 a). The first holding mechanism (140) is rotatable about each of the first axis and the second axis, and fits the second module (20a) into the first module (10). The second holding mechanism (141, 141a) fits the mounting unit (100, 100a) to the second module (20a) so that the mounting unit (100, 100a) can rotate relative to the second module (20 a). The second module (20a) includes a first yoke (such as the first yoke 710) provided with the first coil and a second yoke (such as the second yoke 711) provided with the second coil. The second module (20a) sucks and holds the first module (10) thereon by the magnetic attraction force generated by the first yoke and the second yoke.

This configuration allows the second module (20a) to rotatably support the first module (10).

In the actuator (2) according to a fifth aspect that may be realized in combination with any one of the first to fourth aspects, the second module (20a) is supported by the mounting unit (100, 100a) so as to be rotatable about a third axis that is perpendicular to both the first axis and the second axis.

This arrangement allows the actuator (2) to enable the second module (20a) to rotate about a third axis.

In an actuator (2) according to a sixth aspect which can be realized in combination with the fifth aspect, the third coil is constituted by a plurality of driving coils (such as coils 37a, 37 b). The third magnet is made up of a plurality of drive magnets, such as magnets 36a, 36 b. In the second module (20a), a plurality of drive coils are arranged along the circumference of a circle centered on the third axis. A plurality of magnets are provided for mounting the unit (100, 100a) so as to be arranged along the circumference of another circle centered on the third axis and around the plurality of drive coils.

This configuration allows the actuator (2) to electromagnetically drive the second module (20a) to rotate about the third axis with respect to the mounting unit (100, 100a), wherein the movable range is extended to 360 degrees or more.

In an actuator (2) according to a seventh aspect which can be realized in combination with the fifth aspect, the third coil is constituted by a plurality of driving coils (such as coils 37a, 37 b). The third magnet is made up of a plurality of drive magnets, such as magnets 36a, 36 b. The first module (10) is disposed at one of two ends of the second module (20a) defined along the third axis. The plurality of driving coils are arranged along a circumference of a circle centered on the third axis at the other of the two ends of the second module (20a) defined along the third axis. The mounting unit (100) includes a plurality of driving magnets, and is fitted to the second module (20a) at the other of its two ends defined along the third axis. A plurality of drive magnets are provided for mounting the unit (100), and are arranged along the circumference of another circle centered on the third axis so as to surround the plurality of drive coils.

This configuration allows the actuator (2) to electromagnetically drive the second module (20a) to rotate about the third axis with respect to the mounting unit (100), wherein the movable range is expanded to 360 degrees or more.

In an actuator (2) according to an eighth aspect which may be implemented in combination with any one of the first to seventh aspects, the first module (10) is electromagnetically driven to rotate relative to the second module (20a) about a third axis perpendicular to both the first axis and the second axis.

This arrangement allows the actuator (2) to electromagnetically drive the first module (10) to rotate about the third axis relative to the second module (20 a). For example, the first module (10) may be rotated about a third axis relative to the second module (20a) by electromagnetically driving the first module at a high frequency. In addition, the second module (20a) can be rotated with respect to the mounting unit (100, 100a) by electromagnetically driving the second module at a low frequency. As described above, known actuators have a movable range of only about 5 degrees when rotating the first module (10) relative to the second module (20a) in the roll direction. In general, the higher the frequency, the smaller the amplitude tends to be. Therefore, when the movable range is small, a high frequency is suitably used.

In the actuator (2) according to a ninth aspect that may be realized in combination with any one of the first to eighth aspects, the second block (20a) is constituted by a third block (20b) and a fourth block (20 c). The third module (20b) is configured to be attachable to and removable from the fourth module (20 c). When the third module (20b) is attached to the fourth module (20c), the third module (20b) and the fourth module (20c) are electrically connected together. The third module (20b) is fitted to the first module (10) by a first holding mechanism (140) configured to be rotatable about a first axis and a second axis. The fourth module (20c) is fitted to the mounting unit (100, 100a) by a second holding mechanism (141, 141a) configured to be rotatable. The third module (20b) includes a first coil and a second coil. The fourth module (20c) includes a third coil.

This configuration allows the actuator (2) to be used as a smaller actuator (i.e., an actuator having a stabilizer function) when the third module (20b) is separated from the fourth module (20 c). This configuration also allows the actuator (2) to be used as an actuator that is driven around the third axis and has a movable range of 360 degrees or more when the third module (20b) is attached to the fourth module (20 c).

The actuator (2) according to the tenth aspect that can be implemented in combination with any one of the first to ninth aspects is used as the camera apparatus (1). This configuration allows the actuator (2) to be used as a camera apparatus (1) having the ability to expand the movable range while simplifying the wiring scheme.

A camera apparatus (1) according to an eleventh aspect includes the actuator (2) of any one of the first to ninth aspects and a camera module (3) arranged in the first module (10).

This configuration allows the camera apparatus (1) to expand the movable range while simplifying the wiring scheme.

The actuator (2) according to the twelfth aspect includes a first module (10), a second module (20a), a first drive unit (such as a pan drive unit 30a), a second drive unit (such as a tilt drive unit 30b), a mounting unit (100, 100a), and a third drive unit (such as a second roll drive unit 35). The first module (10) is rotatable about each of a first axis (such as an X-axis) and a second axis (such as a Y-axis) perpendicular to the first axis. The second module (20a) supports the first module (10) such that the first module (10) is rotatable about the first axis and the second axis. The first drive unit includes a first coil (such as a pan drive coil 32a) and a first magnet (such as a pan drive magnet 31a), and electromagnetically drives the first module (10) to rotate about the first axis with respect to the second module (20 a). The second drive unit includes a second coil (such as the tilt drive coil 32b) and a second magnet (such as the tilt drive magnet 31b), and electromagnetically drives the first module (10) to rotate about the second axis with respect to the second module (20 a). The mounting unit (100, 100a) is to be fitted to the second module (20 a). The third drive unit includes a third coil (such as the second roll drive coil 37) and a third magnet (such as the second roll drive magnet 36), and electromagnetically drives the second module (20a) to rotate relative to the mounting unit (100, 100a) about a third axis that is perpendicular to both the first axis and the second axis, wherein the range of movement is expanded to 360 degrees or more. The first coil, the second coil and the third coil are provided for the second module (20 a).

According to this configuration, respective coils to be supplied with electric power to electromagnetically drive the actuator are provided for the second module (20a), thereby reducing the chance of overcomplicating the wiring scheme. In addition, the third driving unit has a movable range of 360 degrees or more, which is wider than a known range along the third axis. This allows the actuator (2) to have a wide movable range while simplifying the wiring scheme. For example, the actuator (2) according to the twelfth aspect can expand the movable range along the third axis.

In addition, in a known actuator (such as a camera driver of patent document 1 cited in the background art), the camera unit has only a limited movable range in three axis directions. In particular, when the camera unit is rotated in the roll direction, the movable range is only about 5 degrees. Thus, the known actuators are of course suitable for movements of relatively small amplitude (such as walking or running), but not for movements of relatively large amplitude (such as high-altitude parachuting, acrobatic maneuvers and other heavy sports), dirtbike and the like. In contrast, the above-described actuator (2) is capable of expanding the movable range in one of the three axis directions (such as in the rolling direction), and is therefore also suitable for such movements of relatively large magnitude.

An actuator (2) according to a thirteenth aspect which may be realized in combination with the twelfth aspect, further comprises a detection unit (such as a gyro sensor 130 or a magnetic sensor 92) to detect the orientation (10) of the first module. The first, second, and third driving units control rotation based on a detection result of the detecting unit.

This configuration allows the actuator (2) to rotate the first module (10) according to the orientation of the first module (10) detected by the detection unit.

An actuator (2) according to a fourteenth aspect which can be realized in combination with the twelfth or thirteenth aspect, further includes a sensor unit (such as an acceleration sensor 131) to detect an acceleration of the first module (10) or the second module (20 a). The first, second and third drive units control the first module (10) based on results obtained by the sensor units such that the first module (10) faces a certain direction with respect to gravity.

This configuration allows the actuator (2) to control the first module (10) based on the results obtained by the sensor unit so that the first module (10) faces a certain direction with respect to gravity.

The actuator (2) according to a fifteenth aspect which can be implemented in combination with any one of the twelfth to fourteenth aspects, further includes a first holding mechanism (140) and a second holding mechanism (141, 141 a). The first holding mechanism (140) is rotatable about each of the first axis and the second axis, and fits the second module (20a) into the first module (10), with a gap left between the first module (10) and the second module (20 a). The second holding mechanism (141, 141a) is rotatable about a third axis, and the mounting unit (100, 100a) is fitted to the second module (20 a). The second module (20a) includes a first yoke (such as the first yoke 710) provided with the first coil and a second yoke (such as the second yoke 711) provided with the second coil. The second module (20a) sucks and holds the first module (10) thereon by the magnetic attraction force generated by the first yoke and the second yoke.

This configuration allows the second module (20a) to rotatably support the first module (10).

In the actuator (2) according to a sixteenth aspect which can be implemented in combination with any one of the twelfth to fifteenth aspects, the third drive unit is a brushless motor.

This configuration allows the movable range around the third axis to be expanded to more than 360 degrees.

In an actuator (2) according to a seventeenth aspect which can be realized in combination with the sixteenth aspect, the third coil is constituted by a plurality of driving coils (such as the coil 37 b). The third magnet is composed of a plurality of driving magnets such as the magnet 36 b. In the second module (20a), a plurality of drive coils are arranged along the circumference of a circle centered on the third axis. A plurality of drive magnets are provided for mounting the unit (100, 100a) so as to be arranged along the circumference of another circle centered on the third axis and around the plurality of drive coils.

This configuration allows the third driving unit to electromagnetically drive the second module (20A) to rotate about the third axis with respect to the mounting unit (100, 100A), wherein the movable range is expanded to 360 degrees or more.

In an actuator (2) according to an eighteenth aspect which can be realized in combination with the sixteenth aspect, the third coil is constituted by a plurality of driving coils (such as the coil 37 a). The third magnet is composed of a plurality of driving magnets such as the magnet 36 a. The first module (10) is disposed at one of two ends of the second module (20a) defined along the third axis. The plurality of driving coils are arranged along the circumference of a circle centered on the third axis at the other of the two ends of the second module 20a defined along the third axis. The mounting unit (100) includes a plurality of driving magnets, and is fitted to the second module (20a) at the other of its two ends defined along the third axis. A plurality of drive magnets are provided for mounting the unit (100), and are arranged along the circumference of another circle centered on the third axis so as to surround the plurality of drive coils.

This configuration allows the third driving unit to electromagnetically drive the second module (20a) to rotate about the third axis with respect to the mounting unit (100), wherein the movable range is expanded to 360 degrees or more.

An actuator (2) according to a nineteenth aspect which can be realized in combination with any one of the twelfth to eighteenth aspects, further comprises a rotation driving unit (such as the first roll driving unit 30c) to electromagnetically drive the first module (10) to rotate around the third axis with respect to the second module (20 a).

This configuration allows the actuator (2) to electromagnetically drive the first module (10) to rotate about the third axis relative to the second module (20A) separately from the third drive unit. For example, the rotation drive unit may rotate the first module (10) relative to the second module (20a) about the third axis by electromagnetically driving the first module (10) at a high frequency. In addition, the third driving unit may rotate the second module (20a) with respect to the mounting unit (100, 100a) by electromagnetically driving the second module (20a) at a low frequency. As described above, known actuators have a movable range of only about 5 degrees when rotating the first module (10) relative to the second module (20a) in the roll direction. In general, the higher the frequency, the smaller the amplitude tends to be. Therefore, the high frequency is suitably used when the movable range is small.

In the actuator (2) according to a twentieth aspect which can be implemented in combination with any one of the twelfth to nineteenth aspects, the second module (20a) is constituted by a third module (20b) and a fourth module (20 c). The third module (20b) is configured to be attachable to and removable from the fourth module (20 c). When the third module (20b) is attached to the fourth module (20c), the third module (20b) and the fourth module (20c) are electrically connected together. The third module (20b) is fitted to the first module (10) with a gap left therebetween, with respect to a first holding mechanism (140) rotatable about a first axis and a second axis. The fourth module (20c) is fitted to the mounting unit (100, 100a) by a second holding mechanism (141, 141a) that is rotatable about a third axis. The third module (20b) includes a first coil, a second coil, and a battery (150), and the fourth module (20c) includes a third coil.

This configuration allows the actuator (2) to be used as a smaller actuator (i.e., an actuator having a stabilizer function) when the third module (20b) is separated from the fourth module (20 c). This configuration also allows the actuator (2) to be used as an actuator that is driven around the third axis and has a movable range of 360 degrees or more when the third module (20b) is attached to the fourth module (20 c).

In an actuator (2) according to a twentieth aspect which may be realized in combination with the twentieth aspect, the third module (20b) is configured to be attachable to the fourth module (20c) along either one of the first axis or the second axis.

According to the manner of attachment of the third module (20b), this configuration allows the actuator (2) to expand its movable range even if rotated about the first axis or the second axis.

An actuator (2) according to a twenty-second aspect that can be realized in combination with any one of the twelfth to twenty-first aspects is used as the camera apparatus (1). This configuration allows the actuator (2) to be used as a camera apparatus (1) having the ability to expand the movable range while simplifying the wiring scheme.

A camera apparatus (1) according to a twenty-third aspect includes the actuator (2) of any one of the twelfth to twenty-first aspects and a camera module (3) arranged in the first module (10).

This configuration allows the camera apparatus (1) to expand the movable range while simplifying the wiring scheme. For example, the camera apparatus (1) according to the twenty-third aspect may expand the movable range around the third axis.

List of reference numerals

1 Camera device

2 actuator

3 Camera Module

10 first Module (Mobile Unit)

20 fixing unit

20a second module

20b third Module

20c fourth unit

30 drive unit

30a pan drive unit

30b tilting drive unit

30c first Rolling drive unit (rotational drive unit)

31a pan drive magnet (first magnet)

31b Tilt Driving magnet (second magnet)

31c first roll drive magnet

32a pan drive coil (first coil)

32b tilting drive coil (second coil)

32c first Rolling drive coil

35 second roll drive unit

36 second tumble drive magnet (third magnet)

36a, 36b magnet (driver magnet)

37 second Rolling drive coil (third coil)

37a, 37b coil (drive coil)

92 magnetic sensor (detecting unit)

100. 100a mounting unit

130 Gyro sensor (detection unit)

131 acceleration sensor (sensor unit)

140 first holding mechanism

141. 141a second holding mechanism

150 cell

710 first yoke (first yoke)

711 second yoke (second yoke).