Laser Timing Adjustment via Shared Sensor Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for adjusting the timing of laser light sources in image formation apparatuses to correct deviations in the main scanning direction are inefficient and costly, requiring hardware like image read sensors, which increases manufacturing costs and reduces processing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method that adjusts the light emitting timing of multiple laser light sources in an image formation apparatus by generating signals in synchronization with a pixel clock based on outputs from a light receiving sensor, allowing for electronic detection and correction of deviations without the need for additional hardware, using a scanner and light receiving sensor to synchronize the emission periods of the laser light sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If hardware such as image read sensors is used to detect deviation in main scanning direction, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The light receiving sensor that originally serves to receive laser lights for image formation is made to also detect beam spot positions and timing deviations. By utilizing the existing sensor's capability in a dual function, the system achieves self-detection without adding specialized hardware, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The light receiving sensor is designed to perform multiple functions: receiving laser lights for image formation and detecting beam spot positions for timing adjustment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate detection hardware, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision
2Measurement precision
If image formation and reading process is used to detect deviation, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases and processing efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The timing deviation detection is performed during the normal image formation process by utilizing timing information from the light receiving sensor outputs. The system detects deviations in real-time as images are formed, eliminating the need for separate detection steps and reducing overall processing time
Solution Approach 2:
The light receiving sensor continuously outputs signals that contain timing information throughout the image formation process. By continuously monitoring these signals, the system detects timing deviations without interrupting the image formation process, maintaining continuous useful action and reducing detection time
3Productivity
If multiple laser light sources are used to increase scanning speed, then productivity is improved, but object-generated harmful factors increase due to beam interference
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from the light receiving sensor to detect timing deviations between multiple laser light sources. By monitoring the actual beam spot positions and comparing them with expected positions, the system identifies timing mismatches that cause interference and adjusts accordingly
Solution Approach 2:
The system adjusts the timing parameters of laser light source emissions based on detected deviations. By changing the emission timing parameters to compensate for beam spot position deviations, the system eliminates beam interference while maintaining high scanning speed
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 method enables precise electronic detection and correction of deviations between laser light sources, improving image quality and processing efficiency while reducing production costs by eliminating the need for specialized sensors.
Implementation Method 1
a light receiving sensor for receiving the laser lights deflected and scanned by the scanner
Data Source
AI summary
A laser scanning apparatus includes: a plurality of laser light sources including a first laser light source and a second laser light source; a scanner for scanning laser lights emitted from the plurality of laser light sources in a main scanning direction; a light receiving sensor for receiving the laser lights deflected and scanned by the scanner; and a signal generation unit for generating a first signal which is in synchronization with a pixel clock for the second laser light source based on an output from the light receiving sensor obtained by a laser light emitted from the first laser light source, and for generating a second signal which is in synchronization with a pixel clock for the first laser light source based on an output from the light receiving sensor obtained by a laser light emitted from the second laser light source.