Optical information disc apparatus with autofocusing servo system

An optical information disc apparatus for optically scanning a recording medium on which information is recorded, comprising:

• optical means including a laser source and a converging lens for focusing a laser beam from a laser source into said recording medium;
• first detecting means for detecting the laser beam reflected from said recording medium and for producing electric signals which indicate a focus error representative of the extent to which the laser beam is out of focus on said recording medium;
• driving means for varying the relative distance between said converging lens and said recording means;
• first circuit means responsive to the output of said first detecting means for generating a focus error signal for application to said driving means so as to establish with said first detecting means and said driving means an auto focus servo system;
• second circuit means for generating a gradual control signal to be applied to said driving means when said converging lens is spaced from said recording medium by more than a predetermined amount so that said converging lens is moved toward said recording medium in response to the gradual control signal;
• second detecting means for generating a timing signal indicating that said converging lens and said recording medium have a predetermined relationship;
• and
• switching means connected to said first and second circuit means for applying said gradual control signal to said driving means in the absence of said timing signal and for applying said focus error signal to said driving means instead of said gradual control signal in response to said timing signal.