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US5014077A Expired / Lapsed US ⏱️ 0.0 years remaining

Camera with variable focal length optical system

Assignee: Canon Inc
•
Filing: 1989-11-09
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Granted: 1991-05-07
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Expires: 2009-11-09
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Abstract

Abstract A camera is provided with a focal length variable photo-taking optical system in which a focal length varying cam groove for varying the focal length of the phototaking optical system and a barrel sinking cam groove for stowing the optical system inside a camera body are continuously arranged. In photographing, a focal length varying action can be accomplished continuously from moving the photo-taking optical system out of the camera body. In addition to that, a lens protecting cover is arranged to be automatically openable in association with the action for moving the photo-taking optical system out of the camera body.

Inventors

  • 👤 Shinya Yomogizawa
  • 👤 Hideo Ikari

Bibliographic Details

Application Number —
Jurisdiction US
Data Source google_patents
Last Synchronized 2026-11-03 02:07
CPC Classifications
G; G03; G03B; G03B17/00; G03B17/02; G03B17/04

Claims Analysis

Total Claims: 194
Claim 1
Independent Claim 112 words
A camera having a focal length variable optical system, comprising: (a) a focal length variable optical system: (b) a focal length varying guide part for varying the focal length of said optical system, said optical system being arranged to vary the focal length thereof by shifting its position along said guide part; and (c) a barrel sinking guide part extending from said focal length varying guide so as to bring said optical system into the body of the camera by continuous operation from the varying of the focal length, said optical system being arranged to be stowed into the camera body by shifting the position thereof along said barrel sinking guide part.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim 112 words
A camera having a focal length variable optical system, comprising: (a) a focal length variable optical system: (b) a focal length varying guide part for varying the focal length of said optical system, said optical system being arranged to vary the focal length thereof by shifting its position along said guide part; and (c) a barrel sinking guide part extending from said focal length varying guide so as to bring said optical system into the body of the camera by continuous operation from the varying of the focal length, said optical system being arranged to be stowed into the camera body by shifting the position thereof along said barrel sinking guide part.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim 16 words
A camera according to claim 1, wherein said focal length varying guide part includes cam means.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim 15 words
A camera according to claim 1, wherein said barrel sinking guide part includes cam means.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim 37 words
A camera according to claim 1, further comprising protecting means for protecting said optical system, said protecting means being arranged to become inoperative in response to the movement of said optical system out of said camera body.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim 146 words
A camera having a focal length variable optical system, comprising: (a) a photo-taking optical system the focal length of which is variable; and (b) control means for varying the focal length of said photo-taking optical system and for stowing said optical system into the body of the camera, said control means including a focal length varying guide part arranged to guide said optical system for varying the focal length thereof and a barrel sinking guide part arranged to guide said optical system for stowing said optical system into said camera body, said control means being arranged such that, when said control means shifts continuously the position thereof in a given direction, said photo-taking optical system is guided by said focal length varying guide part to vary the focal length thereof and is guided by said barrel sinking guide part to be stowed into said camera body.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim 146 words
A camera having a focal length variable optical system, comprising: (a) a photo-taking optical system the focal length of which is variable; and (b) control means for varying the focal length of said photo-taking optical system and for stowing said optical system into the body of the camera, said control means including a focal length varying guide part arranged to guide said optical system for varying the focal length thereof and a barrel sinking guide part arranged to guide said optical system for stowing said optical system into said camera body, said control means being arranged such that, when said control means shifts continuously the position thereof in a given direction, said photo-taking optical system is guided by said focal length varying guide part to vary the focal length thereof and is guided by said barrel sinking guide part to be stowed into said camera body.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim 35 words
A camera according to claim 5, further comprising protecting means for protecting said photo-taking optical system, said protecting means being arranged to become inoperative in response to the position shifting action of said control means.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim 36 words
A camera according to claim 6, wherein said control means includes an auxiliary guide part which is arranged to guide said photo-taking optical system during a process of shifting said protecting means to an inoperative state.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim 23 words
A camera according to claim 7, wherein said auxiliary guide part is arranged not to change the position of said photo-taking optical system.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim 48 words
A camera according to claim 7, wherein said auxiliary guide part is arranged such that, with said control means shifting the position thereof in said given direction, said auxiliary guide part guides said photo-taking optical system after said optical system is guided by said barrel sinking guide part.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim 18 words
A camera according to claim 5, further comprising driving means for shifting the position of said control means.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim 16 words
A camera according to claim 10, wherein said driving means includes an electric motor driving device.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim 16 words
A camera according to claim 5, wherein said focal length varying guide part includes cam means.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim 15 words
A camera according to claim 5, wherein said barrel sinking guide part includes cam means.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim 172 words
A photographic camera comprising: a photographic lens system freely settable to various focal lengths; an openable and closeable lens cover disposed in front of said photographic lens system; opening and closing means for said lens cover; motor means for providing kinetic energy for the focal length changeover operations of said photographic lens system and also for the opening and closing operations of said lens cover; and linking means capable of transmitting the kinetic energy from said motor means to said photographic lens system and to said opening and closing means in the form of a mechanical displacement; wherein said opening and closing means operates: to open said lens cover by utilizing a mechanical displacement from a home position to an intermediate position of said linking means; to close said lens cover by utilizing a mechanical displacement from the intermediate position to the home position of said linking means; and to change over a focal position by utilizing mechanical displacements reversibly between the intermediate position and an end position of said linking means.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim 172 words
A photographic camera comprising: a photographic lens system freely settable to various focal lengths; an openable and closeable lens cover disposed in front of said photographic lens system; opening and closing means for said lens cover; motor means for providing kinetic energy for the focal length changeover operations of said photographic lens system and also for the opening and closing operations of said lens cover; and linking means capable of transmitting the kinetic energy from said motor means to said photographic lens system and to said opening and closing means in the form of a mechanical displacement; wherein said opening and closing means operates: to open said lens cover by utilizing a mechanical displacement from a home position to an intermediate position of said linking means; to close said lens cover by utilizing a mechanical displacement from the intermediate position to the home position of said linking means; and to change over a focal position by utilizing mechanical displacements reversibly between the intermediate position and an end position of said linking means.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim 30 words
A photographic camera, as defined in claim 14, wherein said linking means is linearly displaced by said motor means in the direction of the optical axis of said lens system.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim 27 words
A photographic camera, as defined in claim 14, wherein said linking means is rotatably displaced by said motor means about the optical axis of said lens system.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim 93 words
A photographic camera, as defined in claim 14, further comprising: a first loose mechanism disposed between said linking means and said lens cover and adapted for inhibiting a predetermined amount of displacement of said linking means from being transmitted to said lens cover; and a second loose mechanism disposed in a contact region between said linking means and said lens system and adapted for inhibiting a predetermined amount of displacement of said linking means from being substantially transmitted to said lens system to changing over the focal length of said photographic lens system.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim 22 words
A photographic camera, as defined in claim 14, wherein said lens system is capable of step-free changing over a focal length thereof.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim 26 words
A photographic camera, as defined in claim 14, wherein said lens system is capable of changing over a focal length thereof in a plurality of steps.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim 80 words
A photographic camera comprising: a photographic lens system; means for changing over the total focal length of said lens system; an electrical driving means for driving said changing over means; a lens cover movable between a position of covering a front face of said lens system and a position for uncovering said front face; and means for transmitting the driving force of said driving means to said lens cover thereby moving said lens cover between said covering and uncovering positions.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim 80 words
A photographic camera comprising: a photographic lens system; means for changing over the total focal length of said lens system; an electrical driving means for driving said changing over means; a lens cover movable between a position of covering a front face of said lens system and a position for uncovering said front face; and means for transmitting the driving force of said driving means to said lens cover thereby moving said lens cover between said covering and uncovering positions.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim 71 words
A photographic camera, as defined in claim 20, wherein said changing over means includes operating means operable in a first range and in a second range by the driving force of said driving means such that said operating means changes over the focal length of said lens system by the operation in said first range and moves said lens cover through said transmitting means by the operation in said second range.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim 67 words
A photographic camera, as defined in claim 21, wherein at least a front element of said lens system is movable between a position projecting forward from a camera body and a position retracted backward from said projecting position for performing the changing over of the focal length and wherein said front element is stationed at said retracted position when said operating means is in said second range.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim 22 words
A photographic camera, as defined in claim 22, wherein said operating means is movable along an optical axis of said lens system.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim 48 words
A photographic camera, as defined in claim 22, wherein said operating means is rotatable around an optical axis of said lens system and said operating means further includes cam means for moving said lens system along said optical axis in response to the rotation of said operating means.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim 35 words
A photographic camera, as defined in claim 20, wherein said lens system is so arranged that its focal length is mutually changed over between a predetermined shorter focal length and a predetermined longer focal length.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim 22 words
A photographic camera, as defined in claim 20, wherein said lens system is so arranged that its focal length is varied continuously.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim 151 words
A photographic camera comprising: a photographic lens system; means for changing over the total focal length of said lens system; lens cover means movable between positions for covering and uncovering a front face of said lens system; motor means for providing kinetic energy; and linking means capable of transmitting the kinetic energy from said motor means to said lens cover means for moving said lens cover means into said uncovering position in response to a mechanical displacement from a home position to an intermediate position of said linking means and for moving said lens cover means into said covering position in response to a mechanical displacement from said intermediate position to said home position of said linking means, and capable of transmitting the kinetic energy form said motor to said changing over means in response to a mechanical displacement between said intermediate position and an end position of said linking means.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim 151 words
A photographic camera comprising: a photographic lens system; means for changing over the total focal length of said lens system; lens cover means movable between positions for covering and uncovering a front face of said lens system; motor means for providing kinetic energy; and linking means capable of transmitting the kinetic energy from said motor means to said lens cover means for moving said lens cover means into said uncovering position in response to a mechanical displacement from a home position to an intermediate position of said linking means and for moving said lens cover means into said covering position in response to a mechanical displacement from said intermediate position to said home position of said linking means, and capable of transmitting the kinetic energy form said motor to said changing over means in response to a mechanical displacement between said intermediate position and an end position of said linking means.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim 45 words
A camera or an optical system driving device comprising: an optical system; varying means for varying the focal length of said optical system; protecting cover means for protecting said optical system; and driving means for driving said varying means and also said protecting cover means.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim 45 words
A camera or an optical system driving device comprising: an optical system; varying means for varying the focal length of said optical system; protecting cover means for protecting said optical system; and driving means for driving said varying means and also said protecting cover means.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim 18 words
A camera or a device according to claim 28, wherein said optical system includes a photographic optical system.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 28, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim 15 words
A camera or device according to claim 28, wherein said driving means includes a motor.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim 78 words
A camera or a device according to claim 28, wherein said driving means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means between a first position and a second position, and for causing said protecting cover means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means between said second position and a third position.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim 78 words
A camera or a device according to claim 28, wherein said driving means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means between a first state and a second state, and for causing said protecting cover means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means between said second state and a third state.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim 69 words
A camera or device according to claim 28, wherein said driving means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means in a first range, and for causing said protecting cover means substantially to operate by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means in a second range.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim 38 words
A camera or device according to claim 34, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said protecting cover means during the displacement of said displacement means in the first range.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim 46 words
A camera or device according to claim 34, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during the displacement of said displacement means in the second range.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim 38 words
A camera or a device according to claim 34, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said protecting cover means during a predetermined amount of displacement of said displacement means.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim 46 words
A camera or a device according to claim 34, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during a predetermined amount of displacement of said displacement means.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim 70 words
A camera or a device according to claim 28, wherein said driving means includes working means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during operation of said working means in a first range, and for causing said protecting cover means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during operation of said working means in a second range.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim 39 words
A camera or a device according to claim 39, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said protecting cover means during the operation of said working means in the first range.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim 47 words
A camera or a device according to claim 39, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during the operation of said working means in the second range.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim 38 words
A camera or a device according to claim 39, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said protecting cover means during a predetermined amount of operation of said working means.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim 46 words
A camera or a device according to claim 39, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during a predetermined amount of operation of said working means.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim 26 words
A camera or a device according to claim 28, wherein said driving means includes means for transmitting a driving force by means of a straight displacement.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim 25 words
A camera of a device according to claim 28, wherein said driving means includes means for transmitting a driving force by means of a rotation.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim 30 words
A camera or a device according to claim 28, wherein said varying means includes means for changing over the focal lengths of said optical system in a plurality of steps.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim 26 words
A camera or a device according to claim 28, wherein said varying means includes means for changing over the focal length of said optical system continuously.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim 42 words
A camera or an optical system driving device comprising: varying means for varying the focal length of an optical system: protecting cover means for protecting said optical system; and driving means for driving said varying means and also said protecting cover means.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim 42 words
A camera or an optical system driving device comprising: varying means for varying the focal length of an optical system: protecting cover means for protecting said optical system; and driving means for driving said varying means and also said protecting cover means.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim 18 words
A camera or a device according to claim 48, wherein said optical system includes a photographic optical system.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 48, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim 15 words
A camera or device according to claim 48, wherein said driving means includes a motor.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim 69 words
A camera or device according to claim 48, wherein said driving means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means in a first range, and for causing said protecting cover means substantially to operate by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means in a second range.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim 45 words
A camera or an optical system operative device comprising: an optical system; varying means for varying the focal length of said optical system; protecting cover means for protecting said optical system; and operating means for operating said varying means and also said protecting cover means.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim 45 words
A camera or an optical system operative device comprising: an optical system; varying means for varying the focal length of said optical system; protecting cover means for protecting said optical system; and operating means for operating said varying means and also said protecting cover means.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim 18 words
A camera or a device according to claim 53, wherein said optical system includes a photographic optical system.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 53, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim 70 words
A camera or a device according to claim 53, wherein said operating means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means between a first position and a second position, and for causing said protecting cover means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means between said second position and a third position.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim 70 words
A camera or a device according to claim 53, wherein said operating means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means between a first state and a second state, and for causing said protecting cover means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means between said second state and a third state.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim 62 words
A camera or a device according to claim 53, wherein said operating means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means in a first range, and for causing said protecting cover means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means in a second range.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim 38 words
A camera or device according to claim 58, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said protecting cover means during the displacement of said displacement means in the first range.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim 46 words
A camera or device according to claim 58, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during the displacement of said displacement means in the second range.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim 38 words
A camera or a device according to claim 58, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said protecting cover means during a predetermined amount of displacement of said displacement means.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim 46 words
A camera or a device according to claim 58, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during a predetermined amount of displacement of said displacement means.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim 61 words
A camera or a device according to claim 53, wherein said operating means includes working means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by said operating means during operation of said working means in a first range, and for causing said protecting means to operate substantially by said operating means during operation of said working means in a second range.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim 39 words
A camera or a device according to claim 63, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said protecting cover means during the operation of said working means in the first range.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim 47 words
A camera or a device according to claim 63, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during the operation of said working means in the second stage.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim 38 words
A camera or a device according to claim 63, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said protecting cover means during a predetermined amount of operation of said working means.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim 46 words
A camera or a device according to claim 63, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during a predetermined amount of operation of said working means.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim 26 words
A camera or a device according to claim 53, wherein said operating means includes means for transmitting an operating force by means of a straight displacement.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim 25 words
A camera or a device according to claim 53, wherein said operating means includes means for transmitting an operating force by means of a rotation.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim 30 words
A camera or a device according to claim 53, wherein said varying means includes means for changing over the focal lengths of said optical system in a plurality of steps.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim 26 words
A camera or a device according to claim 53, wherein said varying means includes means for changing over the focal length of said optical system continuously.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim 42 words
A camera or an optical system operating device, comprising: varying means for varying the focal length of an optical system; protective cover means for protecting said optical system; and operating means for operating said varying means and also said protecting cover means.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim 42 words
A camera or an optical system operating device, comprising: varying means for varying the focal length of an optical system; protective cover means for protecting said optical system; and operating means for operating said varying means and also said protecting cover means.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim 18 words
A camera or a device according to claim 72, wherein said optical system includes a photographic optical system.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 72, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim 62 words
A camera or a device according to claim 72, wherein said operating means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means in a first range, and for causing said protecting cover means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means in a second range.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim 48 words
A camera or an optical system driving device comprising: (A) an optical system; (B) varying means for varying the focal length of said optical system; (C) retracting means for retracting said optical system; and (D) driving means for automatically driving said varying means and also said retracting means.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim 48 words
A camera or an optical system driving device comprising: (A) an optical system; (B) varying means for varying the focal length of said optical system; (C) retracting means for retracting said optical system; and (D) driving means for automatically driving said varying means and also said retracting means.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim 18 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said optical system includes a photographic optical system.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim 24 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said retracting means includes means for moving said optical system toward a camera body.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim 57 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said varying means includes means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a first range and said retracting means includes means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a second range.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim 36 words
A camera or a device according to claim 79, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means substantially operating by a force of said driving means in said second range.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim 65 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said varying means includes means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system between a first position and a second position and said retracting means includes means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system between said second position and a third position.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim 65 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said varying means includes means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system between a first state and a second state and said retracting means includes means for retracing said optical system by means of moving said optical system between said second state and a third state.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim 73 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said varying means includes first guide means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system a first range and said retracting means includes second guide means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a said second range, said second guide means being arranged continuously from said first guide means.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim 17 words
A camera or a device according to claim 83, wherein said first guide means includes cam means.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim 17 words
A camera or a device according to claim 83, wherein said second guide means includes cam means.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim 29 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means being drive by said driving means.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 86, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim 16 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said driving means includes a motor.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim 76 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein driving means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means between a first position and a second position, and for causing said retracting means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means between said second position and a third position.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim 77 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said driving means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means between a first state and a second state, and for causing said retracting means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means between said second state and a third state.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim 69 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said driving means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means in a first range, and for causing said retracting means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means in a second range.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim 38 words
A camera or a device according to claim 91, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said retracting means during the displacement of said displacement means in the first range.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim 47 words
A camera or a device according to claim 91, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during the displacement of said displacement means in the second range.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim 37 words
A camera or a device according to claim 91, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said retracting means during a predetermined amount of displacement of said displacement means.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim 46 words
A camera or a device according to claim 91, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during a predetermined amount of displacement of said displacement means.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim 44 words
A camera or a device according to claim 91, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said projecting cover means substantially operating by the driving force of said driving means during the displacement of said displacement means in the second range.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim 69 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said driving means includes working means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during operating of said working means in a first range, and for causing said retracting means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during operating of said working means in a second range.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim 38 words
A camera or a device according to claim 97, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said retracting means during the operation of said working means in the first range.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim 47 words
A camera or a device according to claim 97, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during the operation of said working means in the second range.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim 37 words
A camera or a device according to claim 97, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said retracting means during a predetermined amount of operation of said working means.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim 46 words
A camera or a device according to claim 97, wherein said driving means includes means for inhibiting said driving means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during a predetermined amount of operation of said displacement means.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim 44 words
A camera or a device according to claim 97, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said projecting cover means substantially operating by the driving force of said driving means during the operation of said working means in said second range.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim 26 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said driving means includes means for transmitting a driving force by means of a straight displacement.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim 25 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said driving means includes means for transmitting a driving force by means of a rotation.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim 30 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said varying means includes means for charging over the focal length of said optical system in a plurality of steps.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim 26 words
A camera or a device according to claim 76, wherein said varying means includes means for changing over the focal length of said optical system continuously.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim 44 words
A camera or an optical system driving device comprising: (A) varying means for varying the focal length of an optical system; (B) retracting means for retracting said optical system; and (C) driving means for automatically driving said varying means and also said retracting means.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim 44 words
A camera or an optical system driving device comprising: (A) varying means for varying the focal length of an optical system; (B) retracting means for retracting said optical system; and (C) driving means for automatically driving said varying means and also said retracting means.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim 18 words
A camera or a device according to claim 107, wherein said optical system includes a photographic optical system.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim 24 words
A camera or a device according to claim 107, wherein said retracting means includes means for moving said optical system toward a camera body.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim 57 words
A camera or a device according to claim 107, wherein said varying means includes means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a first range and said retracting means includes means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a second range.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim 35 words
A camera or a device according to claim 110, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means substantially operating by a force of said driving means in said range.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim 65 words
A camera or a device according to claim 107, wherein said varying means includes means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system between a first position and a second position and said retracting means includes means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system between said second position and a third position.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim 65 words
A camera or a device according to claim 107, wherein said varying means includes means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system between a first state and a second state and said retracting means includes means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system between said second state and a third state.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim 73 words
A camera or a device according to claim 107, wherein said varying means includes first guide means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system a first range and said retracting means includes second guide means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a said second range, said second guide means being arranged continuously from said first guide means.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim 17 words
A camera or a device according to claim 114, wherein said first guide means includes cam means.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim 17 words
A camera or a device according to claim 114, wherein said second guide means includes cam means.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim 29 words
A camera or a device according to claim 107, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means being driven by said driving means.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 117, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim 16 words
A camera or a device according to claim 107, wherein said driving means includes a motor.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim 69 words
A camera or a device according to claim 107, wherein said driving means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means in a first range, and for causing said retracting means to operate substantially by the driving force of said driving means during displacement of said displacement means in a second range.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim 50 words
A camera or an optical system operating device comprising: (A) a variable focal length optical system; (B) varying means for varying the focal length of said optical system; (C) retracting means for retracting said optical system; and (D) operating means for operating said varying means and also said retracting means.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim 50 words
A camera or an optical system operating device comprising: (A) a variable focal length optical system; (B) varying means for varying the focal length of said optical system; (C) retracting means for retracting said optical system; and (D) operating means for operating said varying means and also said retracting means.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim 18 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said optical system includes a photographic optical system.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim 24 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said retracting means includes means for moving said optical system toward a camera body.
Claim 136
Dependent Claim 57 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said varying means includes means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a first range and said retracting means includes means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a second range.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim 36 words
A camera or a device according to claim 124, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means substantially operating by a force of said operation means in said second range.
Claim 138
Dependent Claim 65 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said varying means includes means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system between a first position and a second position and said retracting means includes means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system between said second position and a third position.
Claim 139
Dependent Claim 65 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said varying means includes means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system between a first state and a second state and said retracting means includes means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system between said second state and a third state.
Claim 140
Dependent Claim 74 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said varying means includes first guide means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a first range and said retracting means includes second guide means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a said second range, said second guide means being arranged continuously from said first guide means.
Claim 141
Dependent Claim 17 words
A camera or a device according to claim 128, wherein said first guide means includes cam means.
Claim 142
Dependent Claim 17 words
A camera or a device according to claim 128 wherein said second guide means includes cam means.
Claim 143
Dependent Claim 29 words
A camera or a device according to claim 128, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means being driven by said operating means.
Claim 144
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 131, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.
Claim 145
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.
Claim 146
Dependent Claim 70 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said operating means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means between a first position and a second position, and for causing said protecting cover means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means between said second position and a third position.
Claim 147
Dependent Claim 70 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said operating means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means between a first state and a second state, and for causing said protecting cover means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means between said second state and a third state.
Claim 148
Dependent Claim 62 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said operating means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means in a first range, and for causing said protecting cover means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means in a second range.
Claim 149
Dependent Claim 39 words
A camera or a device according to claim 136, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said protecting cover means during the displacement of said displacement means in the first range.
Claim 150
Dependent Claim 47 words
A camera or a device according to claim 136, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during the displacement of said displacement means in the second range.
Claim 151
Dependent Claim 38 words
A camera or a device according to claim 136, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said protecting cover means during a predetermined amount of displacement of said displacement means.
Claim 152
Dependent Claim 46 words
A camera or a device according to claim 136, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during a predetermined amount of displacement of said displacement means.
Claim 153
Dependent Claim 35 words
A camera or a device according to claim 136, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means substantially operating by said operating means during change of said second range.
Claim 154
Dependent Claim 61 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said operating means includes working means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by said operating means during operation of said working means in a first range, and for causing said protecting means to operate substantially by said operating means during operation of said working means in a second range.
Claim 155
Dependent Claim 39 words
A camera or a device according to claim 142, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said protecting cover means during the operation of said working means in the first range.
Claim 156
Dependent Claim 47 words
A camera or a device according to claim 142, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during the operation of said working means in the second stage.
Claim 157
Dependent Claim 38 words
A camera or a device according to claim 142, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said protecting cover means during a predetermined amount of operation of said working means.
Claim 158
Dependent Claim 46 words
A camera or a device according to claim 142, wherein said operating means includes means for inhibiting said operating means from substantially operating on said varying means to vary the focal length of said optical system during a predetermined amount of operation of said working means.
Claim 159
Dependent Claim 35 words
A camera or a device according to claim 142, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means substantially operating by said operating means during operating in said second range.
Claim 160
Dependent Claim 26 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said operating means includes means for transmitting an operating force by means of a straight displacement.
Claim 161
Dependent Claim 25 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said operating means includes means for transmitting an operating force by means of a rotation.
Claim 162
Dependent Claim 30 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said varying means includes means for changing over the focal lengths of said optical system in a plurality of steps.
Claim 163
Dependent Claim 26 words
A camera or a device according to claim 121, wherein said varying means includes means for changing over the focal length of said optical system continuously.
Claim 164
Dependent Claim 49 words
A camera or an optical system operating device comprising: (A) varying means for varying the focal length of a variable focal length optical system; (B) retracting means for retracting said variable focal length optical system; and (C) operating means for deriving said varying means and also said retracting means.
Claim 165
Dependent Claim 49 words
A camera or an optical system operating device comprising: (A) varying means for varying the focal length of a variable focal length optical system; (B) retracting means for retracting said variable focal length optical system; and (C) operating means for deriving said varying means and also said retracting means.
Claim 166
Dependent Claim 18 words
A camera or a device according to claim 152, wherein said optical system includes a photographic optical system.
Claim 167
Dependent Claim 24 words
A camera or a device according to claim 152, wherein said retracting means includes means for moving said optical system toward a camera body.
Claim 168
Dependent Claim 57 words
A camera or a device according to claim 152, wherein said varying means includes means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a first range and said retracting means includes means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a second range.
Claim 169
Dependent Claim 36 words
A camera or a device according to claim 155, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means substantially operating by a force of said operation means in said second range.
Claim 170
Dependent Claim 65 words
A camera or a device according to claim 152, wherein said varying means includes means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system between a first position and a second position and said retracting means includes means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system between said second position and a third position.
Claim 171
Dependent Claim 65 words
A camera or a device according to claim 152, wherein said varying means includes means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system between a first state and a second state and said retracting means includes means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system between said second state and a third state.
Claim 172
Dependent Claim 73 words
A camera or a device according to claim 152, wherein said varying means includes first guide means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system a first range and said retracting means includes second guide means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a said second range, said second guide means being arranged continuously from said first guide means.
Claim 173
Dependent Claim 17 words
A camera or a device according to claim 159, wherein said first guide means includes cam means.
Claim 174
Dependent Claim 17 words
A camera or a device according to claim 159, wherein said second guide means includes can means.
Claim 175
Dependent Claim 29 words
A camera or a device according to claim 152, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means being driven by said operating means.
Claim 176
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 162, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.
Claim 177
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 152, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.
Claim 178
Dependent Claim 62 words
A camera or a device according to claim 152, wherein said operating means includes displacement means for causing said varying means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means in a first range, and for causing said protecting cover means to operate substantially by said operating means during displacement of said displacement means in a second range.
Claim 179
Dependent Claim 110 words
A camera or an optical system operating device comprising: (A) an optical system; (B) varying means for varying the focal length of said optical system, said varying means including first guide means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a first range; (C) retracting means for retracting said optical system, said retracting means including second guide means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a said second range, said second guide means being arranged continuously from said first guide means; and (D) operating means for operating said varying means and also said retracting means.
Claim 180
Dependent Claim 110 words
A camera or an optical system operating device comprising: (A) an optical system; (B) varying means for varying the focal length of said optical system, said varying means including first guide means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a first range; (C) retracting means for retracting said optical system, said retracting means including second guide means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a said second range, said second guide means being arranged continuously from said first guide means; and (D) operating means for operating said varying means and also said retracting means.
Claim 181
Dependent Claim 17 words
A camera or a device according to claim 166, wherein said first guide means includes cam means.
Claim 182
Dependent Claim 17 words
A camera or a device according to claim 166, wherein said second guide means includes cam means.
Claim 183
Dependent Claim 29 words
A camera or a device according to claim 166, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means being driven by said operating means.
Claim 184
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 169, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.
Claim 185
Dependent Claim 36 words
A camera or a device according to claim 166, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means substantially operating by a force of said operation means in said second range.
Claim 186
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 166, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.
Claim 187
Dependent Claim 106 words
A camera or an optical system operating device comprising: (A) varying means for varying the focal length of said optical system, said varying means including first guide means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a first range; (B) retracting means for retracing said optical system, said retracting means including second guide means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a said second range, said second guide means being arranged continuously from said first guide means; and (C) operating means for operating said varying means and also said retracting means.
Claim 188
Dependent Claim 106 words
A camera or an optical system operating device comprising: (A) varying means for varying the focal length of said optical system, said varying means including first guide means for varying the focal length of said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a first range; (B) retracting means for retracing said optical system, said retracting means including second guide means for retracting said optical system by means of moving said optical system in a said second range, said second guide means being arranged continuously from said first guide means; and (C) operating means for operating said varying means and also said retracting means.
Claim 189
Dependent Claim 17 words
A camera or a device according to claim 173, wherein said first guide means includes cam means.
Claim 190
Dependent Claim 17 words
A camera or a device according to claim 173, wherein said second guide means includes cam means.
Claim 191
Dependent Claim 29 words
A camera or a device according to claim 173, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means being driven by said operating means.
Claim 192
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 176, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.
Claim 193
Dependent Claim 36 words
A camera or a device according to claim 173, further comprising protecting cover means for protecting said optical system, said protecting cover means substantially operating by a force of said operation means in said second range.
Claim 194
Dependent Claim 27 words
A camera or a device according to claim 173, wherein said protecting cover means includes means for opening and closing a front face of said optical system.

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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows

Annuity Stage Window Opens Payment Deadline Surcharge Period Until Estimated Fee Status
3.5 Years (Year 4) 1994-05-06 1994-11-05 1995-05-07 $2000.00 Window Closed / Lapsed
7.5 Years (Year 8) 1998-05-06 1998-11-05 1999-05-07 $3760.00 Window Closed / Lapsed
11.5 Years (Year 12) 2002-05-06 2002-11-05 2003-05-07 $7700.00 Window Closed / Lapsed

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