Laser Scanner Layout for Compact Image Forming Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face the challenge of increased height due to the positioning of optical scanning apparatuses, particularly when deflecting mirrors are disposed above photosensitive members near the fixing device, necessitating a larger main assembly.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a scanner unit with a rotatable polygonal mirror that reflects laser beams towards both the fixing device and an opposite side, utilizing an oblique incident optical system where the rotational axis of the polygonal mirror is inclined relative to the vertical direction, and incorporates asymmetrical placement of reflecting members to optimize space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the optical scanning apparatus is positioned above the photosensitive members near the fixing device with deflecting mirrors disposed above the photosensitive members, then the optical scanning operation is facilitated, but the height of the main assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the optical scanning apparatus from a vertical arrangement (above photosensitive members) to a horizontal arrangement (below photosensitive members). This dimensional change allows the deflecting mirrors to be positioned in the horizontal plane rather than vertically stacked, reducing the height of the main assembly while maintaining optical scanning functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the conventional arrangement by placing the optical scanning apparatus below the photosensitive members instead of above them. This inversion allows the light beam path to travel upward through the photosensitive members, enabling the deflecting mirrors to be positioned in a configuration that reduces vertical space requirements
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 a compact design by effectively utilizing internal space, reducing the overall height of the image forming apparatus while ensuring efficient scanning and fixing operations.
Implementation Method 1
a rotatable polygonal mirror configured to reflect and deflect the laser beams emitted from the light sources
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of reflecting members configured to reflect the laser beams, respectively, reflected by the rotatable polygonal mirror
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a plurality of photosensitive members; a scanner unit including light sources, a rotatable polygonal mirror, and reflecting members; and a fixing portion. Parts of the laser beams emitted from the light sources are reflected by the rotatable polygonal mirror toward the fixing device side, and rest parts of the laser beams are reflected by the rotatable polygonal mirror toward a side opposite from the fixing device side. Of the parts of the laser beams reflected by the rotatable polygonal mirror toward the fixing device side, the laser beam reflected toward the reflecting member provided at a position remotest from the rotatable polygonal mirror travels downward relative to a horizontal direction. A rotational axis of the rotatable polygonal mirror is inclined relative to a vertical direction.