Eccentric Cam Scanline Curvature Correction Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrophotographic image forming apparatuses face challenges in correcting scanline curvature in their imaging optical systems, which affects the quality of images formed on photoconductors due to design and component-related issues.
Innovation Solution
A scanline curvature correction mechanism is introduced, comprising a holding mechanism for the imaging optical elements, a pressing member to adjust the optical elements in the sub-scanning direction, and a curvature adjustment mechanism using an eccentric cam that can stepwisely adjust the curvature of the fθ lenses, allowing for precise correction of scanline curvature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If an imaging optical system is designed with standard components, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but scanline curvature occurs affecting image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the imaging optical element adjustable rather than fixed. The curvature adjustment mechanism allows the optical element's curvature to be dynamically changed to correct scanline curvature, transforming a static optical system into one that can adapt and compensate for optical imperfections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the curvature parameter of the imaging optical element. The curvature adjustment mechanism changes the physical curvature parameter of the optical element to correct scanline curvature, allowing optimization of image quality without redesigning the entire optical system.
2Manufacturing precision
If a scanline curvature correction mechanism is added to the optical system, then image quality and scanline curvature correction are improved, but the device complexity and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the curvature adjustment mechanism to serve multiple functions: it not only corrects scanline curvature but also provides adjustment capability for different imaging conditions. The mechanism integrates curvature adjustment with the existing optical element holder, making the system multi-functional without requiring completely separate correction devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to adapt to different scanline curvature conditions, providing a single mechanism that can handle various correction needs rather than requiring multiple fixed correction elements.
3Measurement precision
If the imaging optical element is made adjustable to correct scanline curvature, then correction precision is improved, but the ease of operation and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment systems with a more streamlined mechanism. The curvature adjustment uses a simplified mechanical structure that reduces the number of adjustment steps and operations required, making the precision adjustment more accessible and easier to operate while maintaining correction accuracy.
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
This solution effectively corrects scanline curvature, improving the accuracy and quality of images formed on photoconductors by allowing for precise adjustment and stabilization of the imaging optical system, thereby enhancing the overall performance of the image forming apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
an eccentric cam configured to be able to rotate around a rotation axis parallel to an optical axis of the imaging optical element and include a cam portion of which an outer peripheral surface is eccentric with respect to the rotation axis
Data Source
AI summary
A scanline curvature correction mechanism includes a holding mechanism to extend in a main scanning direction and hold an optical element in the main scanning direction, a pressing member provided near a center of the optical element in the main scanning direction and press the optical element of the optical scanning device in the sub-scanning direction, and a curvature adjustment mechanism provided on an opposite side of the pressing member with the optical element interposed therebetween and to adjust a curvature of the optical element in the sub-scanning direction. The curvature adjustment mechanism includes an eccentric cam to rotate around a rotation axis parallel to an optical axis of the optical element and include a cam portion of which an outer peripheral surface is eccentric with respect to the rotation axis, and a fixing mechanism to stepwisely fix an angular position of rotation of the eccentric cam.