A lens barrel comprises a first frame including an inward flange having an opening as a light path for a photographic optical system, a barrier-driving member disposed in the vicinity of the opening, a second frame disposed inside the first frame and movable along an optical axis relative to the first frame, a barrier blade movable along with the rotation of the barrier-driving member between a closed position in which the barrier blade blocks at least a part of the light path and an open position in which the barrier blade is retracted from the light path, an opening-urging member capable of urging the barrier blade towards the open position and urging the barrier-driving member towards a first direction, and a closing-urging member capable of urging the barrier blade toward the closed position. In the event that an external force, such as photographer's finger, urges the barrier blade toward an open position, the closing-urging member urges the barrier blade to the closed portion when the external force is removed.

 
Web www.patentalert.com

< Image pickup apparatus, camera main body thereof and interchangeable lens

> Zoom lens assembly capable of macro photography

~ 00421