Optical Scanner With Dual Deflectors and Single Detector
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical scanning devices for electrophotographic image forming apparatuses are bulky and have a high number of parts, which complicates their design and increases costs due to the need for multiple light sources, deflectors, and light detectors.
Innovation Solution
The optical scanning device incorporates two deflectors with rotating polygon mirrors that scan light in opposite directions, allowing for a compact design with fewer parts by using a single light detecting unit positioned between the axes of the deflectors, reducing the number of circuit boards and parts required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple light sources, deflectors, and light detectors are used in existing optical scanning devices, then light detection functionality is achieved, but device size and number of parts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light sources (first and second light sources emitting first and second lights respectively), multiple deflectors (first and second deflectors with polygon mirrors), and multiple light detectors into a single integrated optical scanning device. The light detecting unit detects both first and second deflected lights through a unified structure, reducing the number of separate components while maintaining complete light detection functionality for multiple wavelengths
Solution Approach 2:
The single light detecting unit is designed to perform multiple functions by detecting both first light deflected by the first deflector and second light deflected by the second deflector. This multi-functional detector replaces what would traditionally require separate detection systems, reducing device complexity while preserving comprehensive detection capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources, deflectors, and light detectors are disposed in a box-shaped housing, then complete scanning functionality is achieved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the first and second deflectors with polygon mirrors are positioned within the same housing space, and the light detecting unit is strategically located to receive both deflected light paths. The light sources are arranged to share optical pathways, creating a compact nested structure that achieves complete scanning functionality without requiring a large box-shaped housing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes spatial arrangement in multiple dimensions by positioning the light detecting unit at a specific location where it can intercept both first and second deflected lights through the rotation of polygon mirrors. The deflectors are oriented such that their rotation axes are parallel, allowing compact packaging while maintaining full scanning capability across different dimensions
3Device complexity
If a single light detecting unit is positioned between the axes of the deflectors, then device size is reduced, but light detection precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The light detecting unit is positioned at a specific location between the axes of the first and second deflectors where it optimally receives both deflected light paths. This strategic positioning ensures that despite the compact arrangement, the detector maintains sufficient reception area and optical path length for precise detection of both first and second lights
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 simplifies the device's structure, reduces costs and size, and improves the precision of image write start timing while maintaining efficient light beam detection and alignment.
Implementation Method 1
a first deflecting member configured to deflect the first light to scan the deflected first light, and a first driver configured to drive the first deflecting member to rotate about a first axis in a first rotation direction
Implementation Method 2
a light detecting unit configured to detect the first light deflected by the first deflecting member and the second light deflected by the second deflecting member
Data Source
AI summary
In an optical scanning device, a first deflector rotates about a first axis in a first direction and deflects light to scan the deflected light, and a second deflector rotates about a second axis parallel to the first axis in a second direction opposite to the first direction and deflects light to scan the deflected light. The light detecting unit detects the light deflected by the first deflector and the light deflected by the second deflector. As viewed in an axial direction along the first and second axes, the light detecting unit is disposed on one side relative to a first line and between second and third lines, the first line passing through the first and second axes, the second line passing through the first axis and being perpendicular to the first line, and the third line passing through the second axis and being perpendicular to the first line.