Optical Scanner Mirror Retention to Prevent Cracking and Misalignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical scanners in image forming apparatuses face challenges in securely positioning and retaining optical elements like folding mirrors due to limitations in layout, which can lead to issues such as cracking or chipping of these components.
Innovation Solution
A scanning optical system with a housing and a pressing and retaining member that uses a pressing spring to securely retain optical elements, such as scanning lenses, by engaging with a retaining portion and support portion, preventing misalignment and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pressing and retaining member is used to secure the folding mirror, then the positioning and securing are improved, but the optical element may be subjected to cracking or chipping due to excessive or improper pressing force
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing force parameter is changed from a constant high force to a controlled variable force that is applied gradually and maintained at an optimal level, preventing both insufficient securing and excessive force that causes damage
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic pressing portion acts as a cushioning element that absorbs and distributes the pressing force, preventing direct transmission of excessive force to the optical element and thereby preventing cracking or chipping
2Ease of operation
If the distal end of the pressing portion abuts on the housing during insertion, then the pressing and retaining member can be easily inserted, but the optical element may be displaced or misaligned
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing and retaining member is designed to engage with the housing structure before applying pressing force to the optical element, establishing a stable reference position that prevents misalignment during subsequent operations
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing portion acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the housing and the optical element, controlling the interaction to ensure proper alignment while facilitating easy insertion through the abutment mechanism
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
The solution stabilizes the retention of optical elements, preventing cracking or chipping and ensuring proper alignment, thereby enhancing the durability and performance of the optical scanner.
Implementation Method 1
the pressing and retaining member includes a main body and a pressing portion that is connected to the main body and presses the optical element retained to the retaining portion toward the retaining portion
Data Source
AI summary
An optical scanner includes a scanning optical system, a housing, and a pressing and retaining member. The housing includes a retaining portion, a support portion that is formed to be opposed to the retaining portion, and an engaged portion to be engaged with an engaging portion. The pressing and retaining member includes a main body including the engaging portion and at least one pressing portion. In a first state where the engaging portion is engaged with the engaged portion, the at least one pressing portion presses the optical element toward the retaining portion. While the pressing and retaining member shifts from a second state where the engaging portion is not engaged with the engaged portion to the first state, a distal end of the at least one pressing portion passes beyond a boundary between the retaining portion and the optical element and abuts on a part of the housing.