Laser Scanning Aperture Alignment With Adjustable Support Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser scanning devices in tandem-type color image forming apparatuses face challenges in efficiently adjusting the positions of multiple apertures corresponding to multibeam light sources, complicating the optical path alignment and affecting image quality.
Innovation Solution
A support mechanism is introduced to adjust the position and angle of aperture units in the laser scanning device, allowing for precise alignment of multiple apertures relative to the light traveling direction and laser scanner, simplifying the adjustment process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If multiple apertures are arranged on a single substrate with the laser scanner, then the device structure is integrated, but the adjustment of aperture positions becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the aperture adjustment system into independent components: each aperture is mounted on its own adjustable support mechanism rather than being fixed on a single substrate. This segmentation allows individual apertures to be adjusted independently, simplifying the overall alignment process while maintaining integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces adjustable support mechanisms that enable dynamic positioning of apertures during alignment. The supports can be adjusted in position and angle, allowing operators to optimize the optical path alignment for each aperture individually, then lock them in place. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction between integrated structure and adjustment complexity.
2Device complexity
If aperture positions are adjusted manually without support mechanism, then the structure is simpler, but alignment precision and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces support mechanisms as intermediary components between the aperture and the substrate. These supports act as mediators that provide precise positioning and angular adjustment capabilities. The supports include adjustment elements that can be finely tuned to achieve accurate alignment, then locked to maintain precision during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables adjustment of multiple parameters for each aperture position: translational position along the optical path and angular orientation. By changing these parameters independently through the support mechanisms, precise alignment can be achieved without requiring complex integrated structures. The parameters can be adjusted, optimized, and then fixed.
3Device complexity
If fixed aperture arrangement is used, then the device is simpler and more stable, but adaptability to different optical paths is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the fixed aperture arrangement into a dynamic system where each aperture can be independently adjusted in position and angle. The support mechanisms allow real-time adjustment during setup and maintenance, providing adaptability to different optical paths while maintaining structural simplicity through modular, independent adjustment units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal adjustment system where the same type of support mechanism can be used for all apertures in the array. This standardized multi-functional support structure provides both positioning and angular adjustment capabilities across all apertures, enhancing adaptability without requiring complex aperture-specific configurations.
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 enables efficient alignment of apertures with multibeam light sources, improving image quality and reducing complexity in optical path adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of lenses which respectively cause the plurality of beam light sets to pass therethrough
Implementation Method 2
The laser scanner reflects and scans the plurality of beam light sets
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
An aperture unit (530) includes a plurality of apertures (53) which respectively cause a plurality of beam light sets that have passed through a plurality of lenses (52) to pass therethrough. A laser scanner (54) reflects and scans the plurality of beam light sets that have passed through the plurality of apertures (53). A support mechanism (58) supports the aperture unit (530) and is capable of changing a position of the aperture unit (530) in a light traveling direction that is directed from the plurality of lenses (52) toward the laser scanner (54) and an angle of the aperture unit (530) with respect to the light traveling direction.