Optical Box Barrier Wall Design for Dust Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical scanning devices face issues with foreign matter invasion due to incomplete fastening between the housing and cover members, allowing particles and dust to enter the optical box.
Innovation Solution
The optical scanning device incorporates a box main body with a vertical wall forming a space inside the first engaging portion and a barrier wall on the cover member that enters this space, preventing foreign matter invasion by intercepting and redirecting particles and dust.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a snap-fit type fastening means is used between the housing and cover member, then the fastening process is simplified and assembly is easier, but foreign matters such as particles and dust may invade into the optical box through the locking hole
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fastening function into multiple independent locking holes distributed around the periphery of the cover member. Each locking hole is equipped with its own locking projection, creating multiple discrete fastening points. This segmentation allows the cover member to be securely fastened to the housing while maintaining proper sealing at each individual fastening location, preventing foreign matter invasion through any single hole.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different structural characteristics to different parts of the fastening system. The locking holes are strategically positioned and sized to allow snap-fit engagement while minimizing intrusion paths. The locking projections are designed with specific geometries that enable secure fastening at critical locations while maintaining overall sealing integrity. This local optimization of fastening structures prevents foreign matter invasion without requiring complete sealing of all holes.
2Reliability
If multiple locking holes are provided for fastening the cover member to the housing, then the fastening reliability is improved, but the number of potential invasion paths for foreign matters increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates sealing structures and proper positioning features within the locking hole design itself, before assembly occurs. The locking holes are pre-configured with appropriate dimensions, positions, and sealing characteristics that prevent foreign matter invasion during the fastening process. This preliminary design of the locking hole structures ensures that even though multiple holes are present, they do not become invasion paths for foreign matters.
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 effectively prevents foreign matter invasion into the optical box without the need for tight fastening or additional shock-absorbing materials, ensuring a dustproof environment for the optical components.
Implementation Method 1
a second engaging portion that is formed on the first fitting wall portion in an elastically deformable manner, which engaging with the first engaging portion so as to lock the cover member to the box main body
Data Source
AI summary
An optical scanning device comprises an optical box that houses an optical component(s). The optical box includes a box main body and a cover member. A first engaging portion is formed on a side wall of the box main body, and a second engaging portion that engages with the first engaging portion is formed on a first fitting wall portion of the cover member. The box main body is provided with a vertical wall that is erected inside the first engaging portion. Moreover, there is formed on the cover member with a first barrier wall that is protruded downward from a top wall so as to enter a space between the first engaging portion and the vertical wall.