Image Reading Device Lens Array Gap Optical Path Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image reading devices with multiple lens arrays arranged in the main scanning direction with gaps between them, the fields of view of adjacent lens bodies do not overlap at the gap portion, leading to discontinuous read images.
Innovation Solution
The image reading device incorporates a second slit portion with a second light shielding plate that restricts the optical path of the lens body closest to the gap, ensuring that its field of view overlaps with that of the adjacent lens body on the image sensor, thus preventing image discontinuity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If multiple lens arrays are arranged with gaps between them to extend the reading length, then the reading length is improved, but the images discontinuate at gap portions
Solution Approach 1:
The optical path separation structure is divided into multiple light shielding plates arranged in sequence. Each plate separates the optical paths of adjacent lens bodies, creating segmented control zones that prevent optical crosstalk while maintaining image continuity across lens array gaps
Solution Approach 2:
Light shielding plates are introduced as intermediary elements between adjacent lens bodies. These plates act as mediators that block stray light from one lens body from reaching the image sensor through the gap, thereby preventing image discontinuity while allowing the gap to exist for manufacturing purposes
2Reliability
If light shielding plates are added to separate optical paths, then the depth of field is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple light shielding plates are merged into a single integrated optical path separation structure. This consolidated design reduces the number of discrete components and simplifies assembly while maintaining the depth of field improvement achieved through optical path separation
Solution Approach 2:
The light shielding plate structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it separates optical paths to increase depth of field, prevents image discontinuity at gaps, and blocks stray light. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
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 configuration allows for continuous read images even when multiple lens arrays are arranged with gaps, enhancing the depth of field and maintaining image quality across the scanning direction.
Implementation Method 1
converge light transmitted through or reflected by a reading target (illumination target) with a lens array including an array of lens bodies
Implementation Method 2
the first light shielding plates each separating an optical path of light passed through one lens body of the plurality of lens bodies from another optical path of light passed through an adjacent lens body
Implementation Method 3
the second light shielding plate restricting an optical path of light passed through a lens body of the plurality of lens bodies closest to the gap at a gap side in the main scanning direction
Data Source
AI summary
Lens arrays of an image reading device in which lens bodies are arranged in a main scanning direction are connected with a gap therebetween. A plurality of first slit portions and a plurality of second slit portions are provided along the main scanning direction between the lens arrays and an image sensor. The first slit portion includes first light shielding plates that separate optical paths of light passed through the lens bodies. The second slit portion includes the first light shielding plates and a second light shielding plate that restricts an optical path of light passed through a lens body closest to the gap at a gap side. The position of the second light shielding plate in a direction along the optical path at the image sensor side is closer to the lens arrays than the first light shielding plates are.