Dual-mode Scanner Single Light Source Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dual-mode scanners require two individual lamps for transmissive and reflective scanning, leading to high costs and large size due to the need for separate light sources.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode scanning apparatus utilizing a single segmental light source that can be selectively turned on for either transmissive or reflective scanning, with a light-guiding member and a carriage module to direct light appropriately, and a light mask to prevent direct illumination in transmissive mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two individual lamps are used for transmissive and reflective scanning, then both scanning modes can be performed, but the cost and size of the scanner increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single lamp is designed to serve dual purposes by being selectively positioned and directed to perform both transmissive and reflective scanning functions. The lamp acts as a universal light source that can adapt to different scanning modes through mechanical positioning and optical guidance, eliminating the need for separate dedicated lamps for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The lamp assembly is divided into segmental lamps that can be independently controlled and positioned. At least one segmental lamp is positioned in the lower housing and at least one in the upper housing, allowing selective activation based on scanning mode. This segmentation enables a single physical lamp structure to function as multiple independent light sources would traditionally be required.
2Ease of operation
If two lamps are positioned at both sides of the scanning platform, then proper illumination for both modes is achieved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning segmental lamps in both the lower housing and upper housing at different heights. This vertical arrangement allows the single lamp structure to provide proper illumination for both transmissive and reflective modes without increasing the horizontal footprint or overall length of the scanner housing, as the light paths are differentiated through vertical positioning rather than horizontal placement.
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 solution allows for both transmissive and reflective scanning with a single light source, reducing the cost and size of the scanner while maintaining efficient image processing capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a light-guiding member arranged over the scanning platform for guiding the light emitted by the active light source to the object
Implementation Method 2
The light is reflected by the object to enter the carriage module in a reflective scanning mode
Implementation Method 3
The light penetrates through the object to enter the carriage module in a transmissive scanning mode
Data Source
AI summary
A dual-mode scanning apparatus is capable of scanning both transmissive and reflective objects. An opaque object or a light-transmissible object is placed on the scanning platform when either of the reflective or transmissive scanning modes is performed. The carriage module is arranged under the scanning platform, and has therein an active light source for emitting light. The light emitted by the active light source is reflected by the opaque object to enter the carriage module in the reflective scanning mode. On the other hand, a light-guiding member arranged over the scanning platform guides the light emitted by the active light source to the light-transmissible object. The light penetrates through the object to enter the carriage module in the transmissive scanning mode.