Curved Synchronization Mirror for Compact Optical Scanning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical scanning systems in imaging devices are bulky and costly due to complex synchronization optics designs that include multiple mirrors and additional focusing lenses, which increase the size and cost of the scanning unit.
Innovation Solution
A compact synchronization optics design using at least one curved synchronization mirror positioned between the scan lens and the scanning member, which deflects and focuses light beams to indicate the start and end of scan lines, eliminating the need for additional optical components and reducing the overall size and cost of the scanning unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple mirrors and additional focusing lenses are used for synchronization optics, then light beams can be properly directed and focused to the photodetector, but the size and cost of the scanning unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the synchronization mirror and scan lens into a single integrated optical component. The synchronization mirror is positioned at the edge of the scan lens, eliminating the need for separate synchronization optics. This merging reduces the number of components, decreases the overall size of the scanning unit, and lowers cost while maintaining the ability to properly direct and focus light beams to the photodetector for accurate synchronization detection.
2Measurement precision
If mirrors are emplaced within the housing to intercept and direct light beams, then optical path length constraints are satisfied, but the housing size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the synchronization mirror at the edge of the scan lens, utilizing the peripheral dimension of the lens rather than requiring additional space within the housing. This dimensional repositioning allows the synchronization function to be achieved without increasing housing area, while the scan lens itself provides the necessary optical path length matching.
3Measurement precision
If additional optical components are added for synchronization, then light beam focusing is improved, but the number of components and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scan lens serves dual functions: it focuses the scanned light beams onto the image plane surface and simultaneously provides optical path length matching for the synchronization beam. The synchronization mirror, positioned at the edge of the scan lens, directs the synchronization beam to the photodetector. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate synchronization lenses and mirrors, reducing component count and system complexity while maintaining proper focusing.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design achieves a more compact and cost-efficient scanning unit by integrating optical power in both scan and process directions without compromising laser spot velocity, reducing the size and cost of the scanning unit while improving alignment robustness.
Implementation Method 1
at least one curved synchronization mirror is disposed for deflecting and focusing at least a portion of the at least one light beam that is deflected by the scanning member
Implementation Method 2
at least one curved synchronization mirror is disposed for deflecting and focusing at least a portion of the at least one light beam
Data Source
AI summary
A scanning system includes a scanning member having at least one reflective surface and at least one light source for emitting at least one light beam to be incident on the at least one reflective surface of the scanning member during a scanning operation. At least one curved synchronization mirror deflects and focuses at least a portion of the at least one light beam that is deflected by the scanning member to indicate at least one of a start and an end of a scan line operation of the scanning operation. A sensor receives the at least one light beam deflected and focused by the at least one curved synchronization mirror.