BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present invention relates to optical equipment configured to contract in an optical axis direction during a non-photographing state to achieve enhanced portability, and particularly to optical equipment suitably applied for a camera or a lens barrel. 
         [0002]    As one example of a plurality of types of optical equipment, such as an image capturing apparatus (e.g., a digital camera) for capturing a still image or a moving image or a lens barrel used for such an image capturing apparatus, a lens barrel configured to contract in an optical axis direction during a non-photographing state to enhance portability has been proposed. Japanese Patent Provisional Publication No. 2011-154113A (hereafter, referred to as patent document 1) describes a lens barrel configured such that a variator lens holding frame and a compensator lens holding frame are respectively pressed by coil springs in an optical axis direction, and these lens holding frames are caused to contact cam surfaces of a variable power cam frame through use of such pressing forces. During a photographing operation, both of the variator lens and compensator lens holding frames are moved by the variable power cam frame in the optical axis direction to change power. In a non-photographing state, both of the variator lens and compensator lens holding frames are forcibly moved in the optical axis direction toward a relay lanes holding frame against pressing forces of the coil springs acting respectively on the variator lens and compensator lens holding frames so that the lens barrel contracts in the optical axis direction. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    According to the technique described in the patent document 1, a relay lens is configured as a variable power lens system not moving in the optical axis direction during the photographing operation, and a variator lens is configured as a variable power lens system moving in the optical axis direction without regard to the relay lens when the power is changed. Therefore, if the technique described in the patent document 1 is applied to a variable power lens system in which a relay lens is moved during changing of power, in particular a variable power lens system in which changing of power is performed while maintaining an interval between a variator lens and a relay lens in the optical axis direction, it is difficult to maintain the interval between the variator lens and the relay lens. That is, since the technique described in the patent document 1 does not provide a configuration for maintaining the interval between the variator lens and the relay lens in the optical axis direction, there may be a case where the interval between the variator lens and the relay lens in the optical axis direction varies during changing of power. In such a case, it becomes difficult to maintain high variable power characteristics. 
         [0004]    The present invention is advantageous in that it provides optical equipment capable of enhancing optical performance while keeping an interval in an optical axis direction between optical elements (e.g., a variator lens and a relay lens) arranged along an optical axis constant. 
         [0005]    According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided optical equipment, comprising: a first holding unit that holds a first optical element; and a second holding unit that holds a second optical element. In this configuration, the first holding unit and the second holding unit are provided to be movable in an optical axis direction so as to allow the optical equipment to reduce a length in the optical axis direction. The first holding unit is configured to be driven by a driving unit in the optical axis direction. The second holding unit is coupled to the first holding unit in regard to the optical axis direction such that the second holding unit is allowed to move integrally with the first holding unit and is allowed to move relatively to the first holding unit. 
         [0006]    With this configuration, it becomes possible to enhance optical performance (e.g., variable power characteristics) of the optical equipment while keeping an interval in an optical axis direction between the first optical element and the second optical element (e.g., a compensator lens and a relay lens). 
         [0007]    In at least one aspect, at least one of the first holding unit and the second holding unit may have a position restriction mechanism formed to restrict relative movement of the first holding unit and the second holding unit in a direction of moving away from each other in regard to the optical axis direction. 
         [0008]    In at least one aspect, the first holding unit may have a plurality of guide pieces arranged along a circumferential direction of the first holding unit. Each of the plurality of guide pieces may be formed to project in the optical axis direction. The second holding unit may have a plurality of position restriction pieces arranged along a circumferential direction of the second holding unit, each of the plurality of position restriction pieces being formed to project in the optical axis direction. The second holding unit may be held by the plurality of guide pieces of the first holding unit at the plurality of position restriction pieces. 
         [0009]    In at least one aspect, each of the plurality of guide pieces may have a guide projection formed at a tip of the each of the plurality of guide pieces. Each of the plurality of position restriction pieces may have a position restriction part formed at a tip of the each of the plurality of position restriction pieces to contact the guide projection of a corresponding one of the plurality of guide pieces in the optical axis direction. In this case, the guide projection and the position restriction part constitute the position restriction mechanism. 
         [0010]    In at least one aspect, the second holding unit may be held on the first holding unit in a state where an outer circumferential surface of each of the plurality of position restriction pieces contacts, in a radial direction, an inner diameter end of the guide projection of a corresponding one of the plurality of guide pieces when the guide projection contacts the position restriction part in the optical axis direction. 
         [0011]    In at least one aspect, in a state where the guide projection is separated from the position restriction part in the optical axis direction, an outer circumferential surface of each of the plurality of position restriction pieces may be separated, in a radial direction, from an inner diameter end of the guide projection of a corresponding one of the plurality of guide pieces. 
         [0012]    In at least one aspect, the optical equipment may further comprise a spring member disposed to cause the second holding unit to be separated from the first holding unit in the optical axis direction. In this case, the guide projection and the position restriction part contact with each other in the optical axis direction by a pressing force of the spring member. 
         [0013]    In at least one aspect, the first holding unit may have a pressing member disposed to elastically contact the second holding unit and to press the second holding unit toward a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction. 
         [0014]    In at least one aspect, in an extended state of the optical equipment, the first holding unit and the second holding unit may be coupled together in regard to the optical axis direction such that the guide projection and the position restriction part contacts with each other. When the optical equipment is contracted, the first optical unit and the second optical unit may be moved relatively to one another such that the guide projection and the position restriction part are separated each other in the optical axis direction. 
         [0015]    In at least one aspect, when the optical equipment is contracted, the first holding unit and the second holding unit may be moved in a direction of reducing the length of the optical equipment, and the second holding unit contacts a fixed part of the optical equipment. 
         [0016]    In at least one aspect, the optical equipment may further comprise a third holding unit that holds a third optical element and is disposed on an image surface side with respect to the second holding unit. In this case, when the optical equipment is contracted, the second holding unit may contact the third holding unit. 
         [0017]    In at least one aspect, the optical equipment may further comprise a position adjustment mechanism configured to adjust a position of at least one of the first optical element and the second optical element in the optical axis direction and in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction with respect to a corresponding one of the first holding unit and the second holding unit. 
         [0018]    According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided optical equipment configured as a lens barrel for a camera, comprising: a fixed frame of the lens barrel; a guide frame supported by the fixed frame; a first cam tube supported by the fixed frame to be rotatable about an optical axis; a moving guide frame movable in an optical axis direction along the guide frame in accordance with rotation of the first cam tube; a second cam tube that is moved integrally with the moving guide frame in the optical axis direction and is rotated together with the first cam tube; a first holding frame that is moved in the optical axis direction by the first cam tube; a second holding frame that is coupled to the first holding frame in regard to the optical axis direction such that the second holding frame is able to move relatively to the first holding frame in the optical axis direction. In this configuration, each of the first holding frame and the second holding frame supports at least one lens. 
         [0019]    With this configuration, it becomes possible to enhance optical performance (e.g., variable power characteristics) of the optical equipment while keeping an interval in an optical axis direction between the lenses (e.g., a compensator lens and a relay lens). 
         [0020]    In at least one aspect, the optical equipment may further comprise a position adjustment mechanism configured to adjust a position of the at least one lens of at least one of the first holding frame and the second holding frame in the optical axis direction and in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction with respect to a corresponding one of the first holding frame and the second holding frame. 
         [0021]    According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided optical equipment configured as a lens barrel for a camera, comprising: first, second, third and fourth lenses; a lens driving unit configured to move the first, second and third lenses in an optical axis direction; a first holding frame that holds the second lens; and a second holding frame that holds the fourth lens. In this configuration, the first holding frame and the second holding frame are coupled with each other in regard to the optical axis direction such that the first holding frame and the second holding frame are able to move relatively to each other in the optical axis direction. When the first, second and third lenses are moved by the lens driving unit in the optical axis direction, the second holding frame is moved in the optical axis direction via the first holding frame. 
         [0022]    With this configuration, it becomes possible to enhance optical performance (e.g., variable power characteristics) of the optical equipment while keeping an interval in an optical axis direction between the second lens and the fourth lense (e.g., a compensator lens and a relay lens). 
         [0023]    In at least one aspect, the first, second, third and fourth lenses may be a focusing lens, a variator lens, a compensator lens and a relay lens, respectively. 
         [0024]    In at least one aspect, the optical equipment may further comprise a position adjustment mechanism configured to adjust a position of at least one of the second lens and the fourth lens in the optical axis direction and in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction with respect to a corresponding one of the first holding frame and the second holding frame. 
         [0025]    In at least one aspect, each of the first to fourth lenses may be formed as a lens group. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS 
         [0026]      FIGS. 1A and 1B  are perspective views illustrating an outer appearance of a lens barrel according to an embodiment. 
           [0027]      FIG. 2  is a cross section of the lens barrel along an optical axis in a capturing state (a wide state). 
           [0028]      FIG. 3  is an exploded perspective view of principal components of the lens barrel. 
           [0029]      FIG. 4  is a cross section illustrating frames of the lens barrel excepting lens systems. 
           [0030]    Each of  FIGS. 5A and 5B  schematically illustrates relationship between lens systems and cam tubes. 
           [0031]      FIG. 6A  is a cross section along the optical axis, illustrating a state where a first holding frame and a second holding frame are combined, and  FIG. 6B  is an enlarged view of a circled portion B in  FIG. 6A . 
           [0032]      FIG. 7A  is a side view illustrating a state where the first holding frame and the second holding frame are combined, viewed from an image surface side,  FIG. 7B  is a cross section cut along a line B 1 -B 1  in  FIG. 7A , and  FIG. 7C  is an enlarged view of a portion C in  FIG. 7B . 
           [0033]    Each of  FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C  is a cross section along the optical axis, illustrating extending and contracting motion of the lens systems of the lens barrel. 
           [0034]      FIG. 9  is a cross section along the optical axis of the lens barrel in the capturing state (a tele-state). 
           [0035]      FIG. 10  is a cross section along the optical axis of the lens barrel in a non-capturing state (a contracted state). 
           [0036]    Each of  FIGS. 11A and 11B  is a cross section along the optical axis of the lens barrel, illustrating extending and contracting motion of the first holding frame and the second holding frame. 
           [0037]    Each of  FIGS. 12A and 12B  schematically illustrates relationship between a lens system and a cam tube in a lens barrel according to a variation of the embodiment. 
           [0038]      FIG. 13A  is a perspective view of a lens frame having a lens position adjustment mechanism, and  FIG. 13B  is a rear view of the lens frame in  FIG. 13A . 
           [0039]      FIG. 14A  is an exploded perspective view of the lens frame having the lens position adjustment mechanism, and  FIG. 14B  is a perspective view of an adjustment ring in  FIG. 14A . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 
       [0040]    Hereinafter, embodiments according to the invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings.  FIGS. 1A and 1B  illustrate a lens barrel LL to which optical equipment according to the present invention is applied. Specifically, as an embodiment of the invention, each of  FIGS. 1A and 1B  illustrates a perspective view of an outer appearance of the lens barrel LL used as a zoom lens detachably attachable to a camera body of a digital camera (not shown). The lens barrel LL is configured to include necessary lens systems which are described in detail later. As shown in  FIG. 1A , during a photographing operation, a movable frame  2  is extended to project toward a subject side (hereafter, referred to as an object side) in an optical axis direction relative to a fixed frame  1  having a cylindrical shape. As shown in  FIG. 1B , in a non-photographing state, the movable frame  2  is retracted to a subject image side (hereafter, referred to as an image surface side) on which an object image is formed by the lens barrel LL so that the movable frame  2  is substantially accommodated in the fixed frame  1  and thereby the lens barrel LL becomes a contacted state. A lock button  1   b  being a push-button is provided on a part of an outer circumference of the fixed frame  1 . The lens barrel LL is configured such that, the lens barrel LL maintains the contracted state when the lock button  1   b  is not operated, and can be extended from the contracted state when the lock button  1   b  is operated. 
         [0041]    The lens barrel LL is provided with a variable power ring (a zoom ring)  3  to be operated to rotate about an optical axis along a circumferential surface of the lens barrel LL. By operating the variable power ring  3  to rotate in a rotational direction, as shown in  FIG. 1A , the movable frame  2  is moved to project relative to the fixed frame  1  from the state where the movable frame  2  is accommodated in the fixed frame  1 , and concurrently lens systems provided the lens barrel LL are moved to achieve a focal length corresponding to a rotated position of the variable power ring  3 . By operating the variable power ring  3  to rotate in an opposite direction to an end position, as shown in  1 B, the lens barrel LL is brought to the contracted state where the movable frame  2  is substantially accommodated in the fixed frame  1 . 
         [0042]      FIG. 2  is a vertical cross section of the lens barrel LL cut along the optical axis, and illustrates the photographing state where the lens barrel LL is extended. In  FIG. 2 , hatching are added to principal components. The lens barrel LL includes first to fourth lenses L 1  to L 4 . Although each of the first to fourth lenses is formed to be a lens group having a plurality of lenses, each of these lens groups is simply referred to as a lens (i.e., first to forth lenses L 1  to L 4 ) for the sake of simplicity. In these lens systems, the first lens L 1  is formed as a focusing lens, the second lens L 2  is formed as a variator lens, the third lens L 3  is formed as a compensator lens, and the fourth lens L 4  is formed as a relay lens. 
         [0043]    As shown in  FIG. 2 , in the photographing operation, the lens barrel LL is brought to an extended state where the first, second, third and fourth lenses L 1  to L 4  are moved to the object side. When the first to fourth lenses L 1  to L 4  are moved in the optical axis direction to change power through an operation to the variable power ring  3  during the photographing operation, the second lens L 2  and the fourth lens IA are integrally moved while keeping an interval in the optical axis direction between the second lens L 2  and the fourth lens L 4  (hereafter, frequently referred to as an “optic axial interval”) constant. With this configuration, it becomes possible to enhance the variable power characteristics (e.g., achieving stable power change operation) by keeping the optic axial interval of the second lens L 2  and the fourth lens IA constant. 
         [0044]    Hereafter, details of the lens barrel LL are explained.  FIG. 3  is an exploded perspective view of the lens barrel LL, and  FIG. 4  is a cross section illustrating an assembled state of the fixed frame  1 , a guide frame  4 , a second cam tube  5 , a moving guide frame  6  and a first cam tube  7 . Referring to  FIGS. 2 to 4 , components of the lens barrel LL excepting the lens systems include the fixed frame  1 , the guide frame  4  fixedly supported by the fixed frame  1 , the second cam tube  5  rotatably provided about an axis with respect to the fixed frame  1  and the guide frame  4 , the moving guide frame  6  movable in the optical axis direction with respect to the guide frame  4 , and the first cam tube  7  rotatably provided about the axis with respect to the moving guide frame  6 . The moving guide frame  6  and the firs cam tube  7  form the second movable frame  2 . 
         [0045]    A bayonet ring  1   a  is attached to the image surface side of the fixed frame  1  having a cylindrical shape so as to be attachable to a lens mount of a camera body (not shown). In the inside of the fixed frame  1 , the second cam tube  5  is inserted to be along an inner circumferential surface of the fixed frame  1 , and the guide frame  4  is inserted on the further inner diameter side. 
         [0046]    The second cam tube  5  is supported, to be rotatable about the optical axis, along the inner circumferential surface of the fixed frame  1 . In this embodiment, a part of the second cam tube  5  on the object side in the optical axis direction is exposed, and the exposed part of the second cam tube  5  is formed as the variable power ring  3 . Therefore, through a rotational operation to the variable power ring  3 , the second cam tube  5  is also rotated about the optical axis. Furthermore, on the inner circumferential surface of the second cam tube  5 , a helicoid groove  5   a  and a guide groove  5   b  extended in the optical axis direction are formed. The helicoid groove  5   a  is formed to move the moving guide frame  6  in the optical axis direction through helicoidal motion. The guide groove  5   b  will be described later. 
         [0047]    The guide frame  4  has an end part  4   a  formed in a ring shape on the image surface side in the optical axis direction. The guide frame  4  is supported by the fixed frame  1  at the end part  4 . At a plurality of positions along the circumference of the end part  4   a , the guide frame  4  is provided with a plurality of guide keys  4   b  protruding in the optical axis direction. In this embodiment, three guide keys  4   b  are provided. Each guide key  4   b  is configured to be coupled to the moving guide frame  6  in a state where each guide key  4   b  is integrated with the moving guide frame  6  in regard to the circumferential direction so as to movably support the moving guide frame  6  in the optical axis direction without letting the moving guide frame  6  rotate about the optical axis. 
         [0048]    The moving guide frame  6  is formed to be a cylindrical shape and is provided with three key grooves  6   a  at three positions along the circumferential surface thereof. Between intervals of the key grooves  6   a , cam windows  6   b  are formed. Each of the key grooves  6   a  engages with a corresponding one of the three guide leys  4   b  of the guide frame  4  such that, through engagement between the key grooves  6   a  and the guide keys  4   b , the moving guide frame  6  is movable in the optical axis direction with respect to the guide frame  4  without rotating about the optical axis. At an end part on the image surface side of the moving guide frame  6 , the moving guide frame  6  is provided with helicoid projections  6   c  protruding outward in the radial direction at a plurality of positions along the circumferential direction. 
         [0049]    The helicoids projection  6   c  is engaged with the helicoids groove  5   a  on the inner surface of the second cam tube  5 , and when the second cam tube  5  is rotated about the optical axis, the moving guide frame  6  is moved in the optical axis direction by helicoidal motion between the helicoid projection  6   c  and the helicoid groove  5   a.    
         [0050]    On the outer circumferential surface of the moving guide frame  6 , the first cam tube  7  is disposed. The first cam tube  7  is disposed to be integrated with the moving guide frame  6  in regard to the optical axis direction while being supported to be movable relative to the moving guide frame  6  around the optical axis. At an end part on the image surface side of the first cam tube  7 , the first cam tube  7  is provided with a plurality of guide projections  7   a , and the guide projections  7   a  are engaged with the respective guide grooves  5   b  of the second cam tube  5 . With this configuration, when the moving guide frame  6  is moved in the optical axis direction by rotating the second am tube  5 , the first cam tube  7  is also moved in the optical axis direction together with the moving guide frame  6 , and concurrently the first guide tube  7  is rotated integrally with rotation of the second am tube  5  about the optical axis relative to the moving guide frame  6 . Further, on an inner circumferential surface of the first cam tube  7 , three cam grooves including a first cam groove  7   b , a second cam groove  7   c  and a third cam groove  7   d  are formed. The first, second and third cam grooves  7   b ,  7   c  and  7   d  serve to move the first to third lenses L 1  to L 3  in the optical axis direction. 
         [0051]    Hereafter, configurations of the above described lens systems (i.e., the first to fourth lenses L 1  to L 4 ) will be explained. First, general configurations of the lens systems are explained.  FIG. 5A  is a schematic diagram generally illustrating arrangement of the first cam tube  7 , the second cam tube  5  and the first to fourth lenses L 1  to L 4 . As shown in  FIGS. 5A and 5B , cam followers  8   a ,  9   a  and  10   a  of the first lens frame  8 , the second lens frame  9  and the third lens frame  10  are engaged with the can grooves  7   b ,  7   c  and  7   d  of the first cam tube  7 , respectively. With this configuration, when the second cam tube  5  is operated to rotate, the first cam tube  7  is also rotated integrally, and the first to third lens frames  8 ,  9  and  10  are moved in the optical axis direction with rotation of the first cam tube  7  about the axis. Since the second lens frame  9  is formed as a first holding frame, the second lens frame  9  is frequently referred to as a first holding frame  9  hereafter. 
         [0052]    A fourth lens frame  11  is formed integrally with a second holding frame  12 , and the second holding frame  12  is movable in the optical axis direction relative to the first holding frame  9 . The second holding frame  12  is coupled to the first holding frame  9  in regard to the optical axis direction so that an interval between the second holding frame  12  and the first holding frame  9  does not become larger than a predetermined size in the optical axis direction. A compressed coil spring  13  is provided to intervene between the second holding frame  12  and the third lens frame  10 , and the second holding frame  12  is pressed by a spring force of the compressed coil spring  13  in the optical axis direction relative to the first holding frame  9 . With this configuration, in a state where no force acts on the compressed coil spring  13  to contract the compressed coil spring  13 , the second holding frame  12  is moved integrally with the first holding frame  9  in the optical axis direction. 
         [0053]    Hereafter, details about the lens systems are explained. The first lens L 1  placed nearest to an object is a focusing lens, and the first lens frame  8  is formed as a first lens unit  8 . The first lens unit  8  is configured such that a lens frame  8   c  holding the first lens L 1  is inserted into a unit tube  8   b  having a cylindrical shape. At an end part of the unit tube  8   b  on the image surface side, three cam followers  8   a  are provided to protrude outward in the radial direction at three positions along the circumferential direction. The cam flowers  8   a  are engaged respectively with the first cam grooves  7   b  of the first cam tube  7 . With this configuration, the first lens unit  8  is moved in the optical axis direction in accordance with rotation of the first cam tube  7 , and the first lens L 1  is moved in the optical axis direction integrally with the first lens unit  8 . Furthermore, when the moving guide frame  6  is moved in the optical axis direction and thereby the first cam tube  7  is moved in the optical axis direction, the first lens unit  8  is also moved in the optical axis direction. 
         [0054]    In the first lens unit  8 , the lens frame  8   c  is provided to be movable in the optical axis direction relative to the unit tube  8   b . Specifically, the lens frame  8   c  is screwed into the unit tube  8   b , and a focusing motor  8   d  is disposed in the unit tube  8   b . Furthermore, a gear  8   e  rotated by the focusing motor  8   d  is disposed to engage with a ring gear  8   f  provided on the lens frame  8   c . With this configuration, when the focusing motor  8   d  is driven, the lens frame  8   c  is moved in a screwing manner in the optical axis direction so that the position of the first lens L 1  in the optical axis direction can be adjusted relative to the unit tune  8  and thereby the focusing adjustment is achieved. 
         [0055]    The second lens L 2  is a variator lens, and is held on the second lens frame  9  (i.e., the first holding frame  9 ). The first holding frame  9  is formed by cutting out two portions from a circular plate member, and, at three positions along the circumference, the cam followers  9   a  are formed to protrude outward in the radial direction. The cam followers  9   a  engage with the second cam groove  7   c  of the first cam tube  7 . With this configuration, when the first cam tube  7  is rotated about the axis, the first holding frame  9  is moved in the optical axis direction, and the second lens L 2  held on the first holding frame  9  is also moved in the optical axis direction. Furthermore, when the moving guide frame  6  is moved in the optical axis direction and thereby the first cam tube  7  is moved integrally in the optical axis direction, the first holding frame  9  and the second lens L 2  are also moved in the optical axis direction. 
         [0056]    The first holding frame  9  is provided with a plurality of guide pieces  9   b  at a plurality of positions along the circumferential direction. The guide pieces  9   b  are formed to protrude in the in the optical axis direction such that the inner diameter slightly decreases toward the image surface side. At and end part of each guide piece  9   b  on the image surface side, a guide projection  9   c  is formed to protrude inward in the radial direction. As described later, the guide projection  9   c  serves to restrict the relative position (i.e., the position in the optical axis direction) of the first holding frame  9  with respect to the second holding frame  12  integrally formed with the fourth lens frame  11 . Furthermore, at two positions along the circumferential direction of the first holding frame  9 , pressing members engaging with the second holding frame  12  are provided. The pressing members are explained later. 
         [0057]    The third lens L 3  is a compensator lens, and is held on the third lens frame  10 . The third lens frame  10  is disposed in an inner region of the first holding frame  9  surrounded by the plurality of guide pieces  9   b , and is provided to be movable in the optical axis direction relative to the first holding frame  9  in a state where the peripheral part of the third lens frame  10  is supported by the guide pieces  9   b . At three positions along the circumferential direction of the third lens frame  10 , arm pieces  10   b  each of which is formed to protrude toward the object side are provided. At an end of each arm piece  10   b  on the object side, a cam follower  10   a  is formed to protrude outward in the radial direction. The cam follower  10   a  is engaged with the third cam groove  7   d  of the firs cam tube  7 . With this configuration, the third lens frame  10  is moved in the optical axis direction in accordance with rotation of the first cam tube  7 , and the third lens L 3  is moved integrally in the optical axis direction. Furthermore, when the moving guide frame  6  is moved in the optical axis direction and the first cam tube  7  is integrally moved in the optical axis direction, the third lens L 3  is also moved in the optical axis direction. 
         [0058]    The fourth lens L 4  is a relay lens, and is held on the fourth lens frame  11 . The fourth lens frame  11  is integrally supported by the second holding frame  12 . The second holding frame  12  has a circular opening  12   a  at a central region including the optical axis, and the fourth lens frame  11  is fitted into the opening  12   a  so that the fourth lens frame  11  is integrated with the second holding frame  12 . At a plurality of positions along the circumference of the second holding frame  12 , a plurality of position restriction pieces  12   b  respectively corresponding to the plurality of guide pieces  9   b  of the firs holding frame  9  are provided to protrude toward the object side in the optical axis direction. The position restriction piece  12   b  is formed such that the outer diameter becomes larger toward the object side. 
         [0059]    In this configuration, at an end of each position restriction piece  12   b  on the object side, a position restriction part  12   c  is formed to protrude outward in the radial direction. Two of the plurality of position restriction pieces  12   b  disposed on one side with respect to a virtual diameter line passing through the center of the second holding frame  12  are formed as displaced contacting parts which are described later. Further, at a plurality of positions along the outer circumferential surface of the second holding frame  12 , retracted position restriction parts  12   d  are formed to protrude outward in the radial direction. 
         [0060]    As shown in  FIG. 2 , the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  are disposed such that, in a state where the third lens frame  10  is inserted in the inner portion of the first holding frame  9 , the optic axial position restriction pieces  12   b  of the second holding frame  12  overlap, in the radial direction, with the corresponding guide pieces  9   b  of the first holding frame  9 , on the inner side of the guide pieces  9   b . Between the third lens frame  10  and the second holding frame  12  combined with the first holding frame  9 , the compressed coil spring  13  is disposed. The object side end of the compressed coil spring  13  contacts the image surface side of the third lens frame  10 , and the image side end of the compressed coil spring  13  contacts the object side surface of the send holding frame  12 . With this configuration, the third lens frame  10  and the second holding frame  12  are pressed to separate from one another in the optical axis direction by a pressing force in the axial direction of the compressed coil spring  13 . 
         [0061]    A combined structure of the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  will now be explained in detail.  FIG. 6A  is a cross sectional view cut along the optical axis, illustrating the combined state of the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12 .  FIG. 6B  is an enlarged view of a portion B in  FIG. 6A . As described above, the position restriction piece  12   b  of the second holding frame  12  overlaps, in the radial direction, with the guide piece  9   b  of the first holding frame  9 , on the inner side of the guide piece  9   b . With this configuration, the outer circumferential surface of the position restriction piece  12   b  of the second holding frame  12  contacts the inner side end of the guide projection  9   c  of the guide piece  9   b  of the first holding frame  9 . Through this contact, the second holding frame  12  is supported at the outer circumferential surface of the position restriction piece  12   b  in a state where the optical axis of the second holding frame  12  coincides with the optical axis of the first holding frame  9 . 
         [0062]    In this situation, the second holding frame  12  is supported such that the second holding frame  12  is able to move in the optical axis direction relative to the first holding frame  9 . Further, in this combined state, the guide projection  9   c  formed on the guide piece  9   b  of the first holding frame  9  to protrude inward in the radial direction and the position restriction part  12   c  formed on the position restriction piece  12   b  of the second frame  12  to protrude outward in the radial direction are disposed to face with each other in the optical axis direction. Therefore, when the holding frames  9  and  12  are moved to become away from one another in the optical axis direction, the guide projection  9   c  and the position restriction piece  12   b  contact with each other, thereby restricting the optic axial interval between the holding frames  9  and  12  to the maximum optic axial interval. 
         [0063]      FIG. 7A  is a side view illustrating the combined state of the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  viewed from the image surface side.  FIG. 7B  is a cross sectional view along the line B 1 -B 1  in  FIG. 7A .  FIG. 7C  is an enlarged view of a portion C in  FIG. 7B . As shown in  FIGS. 7B and 7C , two of the plurality of position restriction pieces  12   b  provided on the second holding frame  12  (i.e., two position restriction pieces  12   b  disposed on one side with respect to a virtual line passing through the optical axis) are formed as displaced contacting parts  12   e . Each displaced contacting part  12   e  is formed such that the thickness thereof becomes larger at a point closer to the object side. An outer surface of the displaced contacting part  12   e  is formed to be a slope surface  12   f . Furthermore, an outer surface of an end of the displaced contacting part  12   e  on the object side of the slope surface  12   f  is formed as a reversed tapered surface  12   g  having the thickness which becomes smaller at a point closer to the tip side. In this configuration, a pressing member  14  provided on the first holding frame  9  elastically contacts the tapered surface  12   g.    
         [0064]    The pressing members  14  are provided at positions which are along the circumferential direction of the first holding frame  9  and respectively correspond to the two displaced contacting parts  12   e  of the second holding frame  12 . Each of the two pressing members  14  is formed of a spring piece  14   a  formed by bending a strip-like leaf spring member, and an object side proximal part  14   b  thereof is fixed to the image side surface of the first holding frame  9  by a screw  14   d . An image side tip part  14   c  of the spring piece  14   a  is bent in a shape of a wedge, and the spring piece  14   a  is disposed such that an inner surface of the tip part  14   c  contacts the tapered surface  12   g  of the displaced contacting part  12   e  from the outer diameter side toward the inner diameter side. With this configuration, through an elastic force of the spring piece  14   a , the tip part  14   c  of the spring piece  14   a  elastically contacts the tapered surface  12   g  toward the inner diameter side. As a result, the two displaced contacting parts  12   e  are pressed toward the inner diameter side by the pressing members  14 , and, through this pressing force of the pressing member  14 , the entire second holding frame  12  is applied a displacing force toward one direction along the radial direction which is perpendicular to the optical axis direction. 
         [0065]    The extending and contracting operation of the lens barrel LL configured as described above will now be explained. As shown in  FIG. 2 , in a short focus length state (a wide state) during the photographing operation, the variable power ring  3  is rotated in one rotational direction, and, in this case, the second cam tube  5  is integrally rotated in the same rotational direction. Therefore, through the helicoidal motion between the helicoids groove  5   a  of the second cam tube  5  and the helicoid projection  6   c  of the moving guide frame  6  engaging with the helicoids groove  5   a , the moving guide frame  6  is moved toward the object side in the optical axis direction. Concurrently, the first cam tube  7  integrally formed with the moving guide frame  6  in regard to the optical axis direction is also moved toward the object side in the optical axis direction. At this time, due to key coupling with the guide frame  4 , the moving guide frame  6  is not rotated about the optical axis; however, the first cam tube  7  is rotated integrally with the second am tube  5  about the optical axis.  FIG. 5A  schematically shows this state. 
         [0066]    When the first cam tube  7  is rotated about the optical axis, through cam motion by engagement between the first cam groove  7   b  of the first cam tube  7  and the cam follower  8   a  of the first lens unit  8 , the first lens unit  8  is moved toward the object side in the optical axis direction. Through such movement of the first cam tube  7  in the optical axis direction and movement of the first lens unit  8  in the optical axis direction, the length of the entire lens barrel LL becomes an extended state. 
         [0067]    Concurrently, through cam motion between the second am groove  7   c  of the first cam tube  7  and the cam follower  9   a  of the first holding frame  9 , the first holding frame  9  is also moved toward the object side in the optical axis direction.  FIG. 8A  schematically shows this state. When the first holding frame  9  is moved toward the object side in the optical axis direction, the first holding frame  9  is brought to the state of being positioned away from the second holding frame  12 , and when the first holding frame  9  is separated from the second holding frame  12  by a predetermined axial distance, the guide projection  9   c  of the first holding frame  9  contacts the outer circumferential surface of the second holding frame  12 . As a result, the second holding frame  12  is position in regard to a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction by the guide projection  9   c , and thereby the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  are brought to the state where the optical axes thereof coincide with each other. 
         [0068]    As the first holding frame  9  is further moved toward the object side in the optical axis direction and the interval between the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  gets larger, the guide projection  9   c  of the first holding frame  9  and the position restriction part  12   c  of the second holding frame  12  contact with each other in regard to the optical axis direction, as a result, the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  are coupled in regard to the optical axis direction, and thereby the second holding frame  12  is moved toward the object side integrally in accordance with movement of the first holding frame  9  in the optical axis direction. 
         [0069]    When the variable power ring  3  is rotated within a required rotational angle range in one rotational direction or a reversed rotational direction, the first cam tube  7  is rotated accordingly, and, due to engagement of the third cam groove  7   d  of the first cam tube  7  and the cam follower  10   a  of the third lens frame  10 , the third lens frame  10  is moved toward the object side or the image side in the optical axis direction. As a result, as shown in  FIG. 9 , when the third lens frame  10  bends the compressed coil spring  13  and is moved to the object surface side, the lens barrel LL becomes the long focal length state (a tele-state).  FIG. 8B  schematically illustrates the second to fourth lenses L 2  to L 4  in this state. 
         [0070]    During the photographing operation in the wide state or the tele-state, in the first lens unit  8 , the focus adjustment is performed by moving the lens frame  8   c  in a screwing motion in the optical axis direction while driving the focusing motor  8   d  in the unit tube  8   b , and thereby adjusting the position of the first lens L 1  in the optical axis direction with respect to the unit tube  8   b . Since a general focus adjustment manner can be used in this embodiment, detailed explanation about the focus adjustment will be omitted. 
         [0071]      FIG. 10  is a cross sectional view of the lens barrel LL in the contracted state during the non-photographing operation. When the variable power ring  3  is rotated to a rotational position closer to an end edge on an opposite side with respect to the above described one direction, through the helicoidal motion between the helicoid groove  5   a  of the second cam tube  5  integrally rotated with the variable power ring  3  and the helicoid projection  6   a  of the moving guide frame  6  engaging with the helicoid groove  5   a , the moving guide frame  6  is moved toward the image surface side in the optical axis direction. Concurrently, the first cam tube  7  integrally disposed with the moving guide frame  6  in the optical axis direction is also moved toward the image surface side in the optical axis direction. As a result, the moving guide frame  6  and the first cam tube  7  are accommodated in the inner diameter portion of the fixed frame  1  and the second cam tube  5 . 
         [0072]    Since, at this time, the first cam tube  7  is rotated about the optical axis integrally with the second cam tube  5  as the firs cam tube  7  is moved in the optical axis direction, the first lens unit  8  is moved toward the image surface side by the first cam groove  7   b  and is accommodated in the inner diameter portion of the first cam tube  7 . Concurrently, the first holding frame  9  is moved toward the image surface side by the second cam groove  7   c . Further, the third lens frame  10  is moved toward the image surface side by the third cam groove  7   d . By such movement of the third lens frame  10  toward the image surface side, the compressed coil spring  13  is contracted, and thereby the moving force of the third lens frame  10  is transmitted to the second holding frame  12  via the compressed coil spring  13 , and the second holding frame  12  is moved toward the image surface side. 
         [0073]    The second holding frame  12  is moved toward the image surface side to reach the inner diameter position of the guide frame  4  and the fixed frame  1 , and movement of the second holding frame  12  is restricted in a state where the retracted position restriction part  12   d  provided on the second holding frame  12  contacts the object side surface of the guide frame  4 . By such restriction, the second holding frame  12  (i.e., the fourth lens L 4 ) is accommodated in the inner diameter portion of the fixed frame  1 . Further, the second holding frame  12  is pressed toward the guide frame  4  by a spring force of the compressed coil spring  13  intervening between the second holding frame  12  and the guide frame  4 , and thus the moving position of the second holding frame  12  is restricted.  FIG. 8C  schematically illustrates the second to fourth lenses L 2  to L 4  in this state. 
         [0074]    Thus, the first lens unit  8 , the first holding frame  9 , the third lens frame  10  and the second holding frame  12  are respectively moved toward the image surface side, and the lens barrel LL is set to the contracted state as shown in  FIG. 10 . With this configuration, the tube length (i.e., the size in the optical axis direction) of the lens barrel LL in the non-photographing state can be reduced, and thereby portability of the lens barrel can be enhanced.  FIG. 5B  is a schematic view of the lens barrel in this state. 
         [0075]    Regarding mutual motion of the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12 , during the photographing operation of the lens barrel LL, the guide projection  9   c  of the first holding frame  9  and the position restriction part  12   c  of the second holding frame  12  contact with each other in regard to the optical axis direction as shown in  FIG. 11A  where only the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  are illustrated for the sake of simplicity. Thus, the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  are coupled together at the optic axial interval defined when the guide projection  9   c  of the first holding frame  9  and the position restriction part  12   c  of the second holding frame  12  contact with each other. In particular, since the second holding frame  12  is pressed toward the image surface side by the compressed coil spring  13  intervening between the second holding frame  12  and the third lens frame  10 , the guide projection  9   c  and the position restriction part  12   c  elastically contact with each other by the spring force of the compressed coil spring  13  and thereby the contacting state of the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  (i.e., the optic axial interval between the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12 ) is kept constant. Furthermore, since the tip part  14   c  of the pressing member  14  of the first holding frame  9  elastically contacts the tapered surface  12   g  of the displaced contacting part  12   e  of the second holding frame  12 , a component of force in the axial direction of the elastic contacting force acting on the tapered surface  12   g  supports the elastic contact between the guide projection  9   c  and the position restriction part  12   c.    
         [0076]    Therefore, in the lens barrel LL, during the photographing operation, the second holding frame  12  is moved in the optical axis direction while keeping the optic axial interval between the second holding frame  12  and the first holding frame  9  constant, and the focal length is adjusted from the tele-state to the wide state through movement of the third lens frame  10  in the optical axis direction. That is, the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  are moved in the optical axis direction in the state where the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  are coupled in regard to the optical axis direction, and thereby the variable power characteristics can be enhanced. 
         [0077]    As shown in  FIG. 11B , when the lens barrel LL is contracted, the first holding frame  9  is moved toward the image surface side by the second cam groove  7   c , and at this state the optic axial interval between the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  is maintained through the effect of the guide projection  9   c , the position restriction part  12 , the compressed coil spring  13  and the pressing member  14 . Accordingly, the second holding frame  12  is moved toward the image surface side together with the first holding frame  9 . When the retracted position restriction part  12   d  of the second holding frame  12  contacts the guide frame  4  and further movement of the second holding frame  12  toward the image surface side is restricted, the guide projection  9   c  of the first holding frame  9  and the position restriction part  12   c  of the second holding frame  12  separate with respect to each other. Therefore, the first holding frame  9  is continuously moved toward the image surface side regardless of the fact that the movement of the second holding frame  12  toward the image surface side is restricted. Further, when the tip of the guide projection  9   c  contacts the object side surface of the guide frame  4  and the lens barrel LL becomes the contracted state, further movement of the first holding frame  9  is restricted. 
         [0078]    When the lens barrel LL is contracted, the inner edge of the guide projection  9   c  gradually and slightly separates in the radial direction from the outer circumferential surface of the position restriction piece  12   c  as the optic axial interval between the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame becomes smaller because each of the guide piece  9   b  and the position restriction piece  12   c  is formed such that the inner diameter becomes larger at a point closer to the object side. As a result, the position restriction piece  12   c  (i.e., the second holding frame  12 ) has a degree of freedom in the radial direction. Accordingly, when the second holding frame  12  and the first holding frame  9  contact the guide frame  4  and thereby movement thereof is restricted, the guide piece  9   c  and the position restriction piece  12   c  are prevented from interfering with each other, and thereby smooth contracting motion of the lens barrel LL can be achieved. 
         [0079]    Furthermore, since the tip part  14   c  of the spring piece  14   a  of the pressing member  14  elastically contacts the tapered surface  12   g  of the displaced contacting part  12   e , the displaced contacting part  12   e  (i.e., the second holding frame  12 ) is pressed in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis by the pressing member  14 . Therefore, even when a gap exists between the second holding frame  12  and the first holding frame  9  in the radial direction, the second holding frame  12  is displaced in the radial direction by the pressing force from the pressing member  14  in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and thereby the second holding frame  12  closely contacts the first holding frame  9  on the opposite side of the region where the pressing member  14  is disposed. As a result, such a gap between the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  can be absorbed. Accordingly, during the photographing operation, it is possible to maintain the positions of the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  in the optical axis direction (i.e., it is possible to maintain the state where the optical axes of the second lens L 2  and the fourth lens IA coincide with each other). 
         [0080]    In the lens barrel LL according to the embodiment, the slope surface  12   f  is formed on the displaced contacting part  12   e . Therefore, when the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12  move relative to each other in the optical axis direction, the tip part  14   c  of the spring piece  14   a  of the pressing member  14  contacts and slides on the slope surface  12   f . As a result, rapid change of the pressing force (the elastic contacting force) can be prevented when the pressing member  14  contacts or separates from the tapered surface  12   g . Further, occurrence of impact on the lens barrel LL during the contracting motion or extending motion of the lens barrel LL can be prevented. 
         [0081]    Variations 
         [0082]    In the following, variations of the lens barrel LL are described. The following explanation focuses on features of modified configurations of the lens barrel LL. 
         [0083]    In the above described embodiment, the second holding frame  12  is pressed in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis to absorb the gap in the radial direction by causing the pressing member  14  to contact the displaced contacting part  12   e  of the second holding frame  12 . However, the displaced contacting part  12   e  may be formed to have an elastic property in regard to the radial direction such that the displaced contacting part  12   e  contacts the guide piece  9   b  of the first holding frame  9  in the radial direction. In this case, the second holding frame  12  is pressed in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis thanks to the elastic property of the displaced contacting part  12 . As a result, the pressing member can be omitted. 
         [0084]    In the lens barrel, position restriction of the second holding frame  12  toward the image surface side may be achieved by a part of a lens system.  FIG. 12A  schematically illustrates such a configuration. In this example, the lens barrel is provided with a fifth lens L 5  on the image surface side of the fourth lens L 4 . Specifically, a fifth lens frame  15  of the fifth lens L 5  has a cam follower  15   a , and the can follower  15   a  engages with a fourth cam groove  7   e  formed on the first cam tube  7 . In this example, the fifth lens L 5  moves only by a slight moving amount in the optical axis direction in accordance with rotation of the first cam tube  7 . 
         [0085]    The fifth lens frame  15  is formed as a third holding frame. The third holding frame stays substantially at the same position in the optical axis direction on the image surface side of the fourth lens L 4 . Therefore, when the lens barrel is contracted, as shown in  FIG. 12B , the second holding frame  12  (a fourth lens frame in this example) contacts the third holding frame  15 . With this configuration, it becomes possible to restrict the position of the second holding frame  12  and the first holding frame  9  in the optical axis direction during the contracting motion of the lens barrel, and thereby the suitable contracting motion of the lens barrel can be achieved. 
         [0086]    The lens barrel may be provided with a mechanism enabling adjustment of lens positions of the lenses held on the first to third lens frames both in the optical axis direction and the direction perpendicular to the optical axis. In this example, a lens position adjustment mechanism for the fourth lens LA held on the second holding frame  12  is explained.  FIG. 13A  is a perspective view illustrating the lens position adjustment mechanism, and  FIG. 13B  illustrates the lens position adjustment mechanism viewed from the image surface side along the optical axis.  FIG. 14A  is an exploded perspective view of the lens position adjustment mechanism. 
         [0087]    In  FIGS. 13A and 13B , the fourth lens L 4  is held on the second holding frame  12  via the fourth lens frame  11 , and the fourth lens frame  11  is configured to be able to move in the optical axis direction and the direction perpendicular to the optical axis relative to the second holding frame  12 . Specifically, as shown in  FIG. 14A , at the image surface side edge of the second holding frame  12 , a ring-shaped fixed ring  16  is supported integrally with the second holding frame  12 . On an inner diameter side of the fixed ring  16 , a ring-shaped adjustment ring  17  is inserted and supported to be able to rotate about the optical axis. Further, the fourth lens frame  11  is held by the fixed ring  16  and the second holding frame  12  while sandwiching the adjustment ring  17  between the second holding frame  12  and the fourth lens frame  11  in the state where the fourth lens frame  11  contacts the image side surface of the adjustment ring  17 . 
         [0088]    At three equally divided positions along the circumferential direction of the fourth lens frame  14 , tension coil springs  18   a  each having an elastic force in the optical axis direction are disposed. Each of the tension coil springs  18   a  is provided such that an end of the coil spring  18   a  is hooked to the second holding frame  12  and the other end of the coil spring  18   a  is hooked to the fourth lens frame  11 . With this configuration, the fourth lens frame  11  elastically contacts the adjustment ring  17  by a drawing force of the three tension coil springs  18   a , and is held on the second holding frame  12  by this drawing force. 
         [0089]    At two positions along the circumferential direction of the fourth lens frame  11  (namely, at two positions on one side of a virtual diameter line), compressed coil springs  18   b  each having an elastic force in the radial direction are disposed to intervene between the fixed ring  16  and the fourth lens frame  11 . Therefore, the fourth lens frame  11  is pressed, by the compressed coil springs  18   b , toward one radial direction in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis with respect to the fixed ring  16  (i.e., the second holding frame  12 ). 
         [0090]    At two positions in the circumferential direction opposite to the above described one side with respect to the virtual diameter line of the fourth lens frame  11 , adjustment cams  19  disposed on and supported by the fixed ring  16  are provided to contact the fourth lens frame  11 . The adjustment cam  19  is formed to be a circular eccentric cam, and is disposed such that a circumferential surface of the adjustment cam  19  (i.e., a can surface) contacts a circumferential edge of the fourth lens frame  11  in the radial direction. Each of the adjustment cams  19  is formed to have a slit on one surface thereof facing in the optical axis direction, and can be rotated through a rotation operation thereto via the slit using a jig. By this rotation operation, the forth lens frame  11  contacting a cam surface of the adjustment cam  19  can be pressed in the radial direction. 
         [0091]      FIG. 14B  is a perspective view of the adjustment ring  17  viewed from the object side. As shown in  FIG. 14B , the adjustment ring  17  is integrally formed with a contacting projection  17   a  on the object side surface in the optical axis direction. The contacting projection  17   a  contacts, in the optical axis direction, a tapered end surface  12   h  formed on the image side end part of the second holding frame  12 . The tapered end surface  12   h  is formed to be inclined along the circumferential direction, and is displaced in the optical axis direction by the positional difference of the tapered end surface  12   h  along the circumferential direction. Further, the adjustment ring  17  is provided with an operation projection  17   b  at a part of the image side surface thereof, and is exposed to the image surface side through an arc-shaped window part  11   a  formed in the fourth lens frame  11 . By operating the operation projection  17   b  in the circumferential direction through the window part  11   a , the position of the adjustment ring  17  in the rotational direction about the optical axis can be adjusted. 
         [0092]    According to the above described lens position adjustment mechanism, by operating the adjustment cam  19  to rotate, the adjustment cam  19  presses, in the radial direction, the periphery of the fourth lens frame  11  contacting the cam surface of the adjustment cam  19 . As a result, the fourth lens frame  11  is moved in the radial direction while bending the compressed coil springs  18   b . Therefore, by appropriately rotating the two adjustment cams  19 , the fourth lens frame  11  can be moved in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis. As a result, it becomes possible to cause the center of the fourth lens frame  11  (i.e., the optical axis of the fourth lens L 4 ) to coincide the optical axis of the lens barrel LL. 
         [0093]    When the position of the adjustment ring  17  is adjusted by operating the operation projection  17   b  around the optical axis, the contacting projection  17   a  of the adjustment ring  17  is moved along the tapered end surface  12   h  while contacting the tapered end surface  12   h  of the second holding frame  12 . Therefore, the position of the contacting projection  17   b  in the optical axis direction is changed by the tapered end surface  12   h . Accordingly, the fourth lens frame  14  which is caused to elastically contact the image side surface of the adjustment ring  17  by the tension coil springs  18   a  is also moved in the optical axis direction integrally with the adjustment ring  17 . As a result, the position of the fourth lens frame  11  (i.e., the position of the fourth lens L 4  in the optical axis direction) can be adjusted. Therefore, even when a position shift in the optical axis direction and/or in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis is caused between the first holding frame  9  and the second holding frame  12 , the lens barrel having a high degree of quality can be provided by adjusting the position of the fourth lens L 4 . 
         [0094]    It is understood that the above described lens position adjustment mechanism can be applied not only to the fourth lens IA but also to the other lens systems. 
         [0095]    In the above described embodiment, each of the first to fifth lenses may be configured as a lens group. 
         [0096]    In the above described embodiment, the disclosed feature is applied to the lens barrel; however, in another embodiment, the disclosed feature may be applied to other optical devices. That is, an optical element used in the optical device to which the disclosed feature is applied is not limited to a lens or a lens group, but may be various types optical elements, such as, an aperture stop, a shutter, a filter or an image pickup device (e.g., a CMOS device). 
         [0097]    The disclosed feature may be applied to a monocle, binoculars, a telescope, a camera module or a lens module for various types of mobile devices, in addition to a lens barrel for a lens interchangeable camera, a lens barrel for a compact camera, a lens barrel for a camcorder. 
         [0098]    The foregoing is the explanation about the embodiment of the invention. The invention is not limited to the above described embodiment, but can be varied in various ways within the scope of the invention. For example, the invention includes a combination of embodiments explicitly described in this specification and embodiments easily realized from the above described embodiment. 
         [0099]    This application claims priority of Japanese Patent Application No. 2015-018947, filed on Feb. 3, 2015. The entire subject matter of the application is incorporated herein by reference.
Optical Equipment, comprising: a first holding unit that holds a first optical element; and a second holding unit that holds a second optical element, wherein: the first holding unit and the second holding unit are provided to be movable in an optical axis direction so as to allow the optical equipment to reduce a length in the optical axis direction; the first holding unit is configured to be driven by a driving unit in the optical axis direction; and the second holding unit is coupled to the first holding unit in regard to the optical axis direction such that the second holding unit is allowed to move integrally with the first holding unit and is allowed to move relatively to the first holding unit.