Optical Scanning Device Linkage Blocking Unit Angle Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical scanning devices require complex optical path designs and additional components like auxiliary light sources and image sensors to accurately detect the angle of a reflection unit, leading to increased costs.
Innovation Solution
An optical scanning device with a blocking unit that operates in linkage with the reflection unit, blocking the detection target path between the output and detection units, allowing for accurate angle detection without a complex optical path design, using a simple configuration with a light emission unit and light detection unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an auxiliary light source and image sensor are used to detect the reflection unit angle, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the angle detection function from the main optical scanning system by using a separate, simple optical path with a light source and light receiving element. This separate detection path independently measures the reflection unit angle without interfering with the main scanning function, thereby achieving precise angle detection while maintaining overall system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The light receiving element serves dual purposes: it detects the angle of the reflection unit through the simple optical path, and can also potentially detect scanning light in the main optical path. This multi-functionality allows a single component to contribute to both angle detection and scanning operations, reducing the need for additional specialized components.
2Measurement precision
If an auxiliary light source and image sensor are used to detect the reflection unit angle, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive components (image sensor and complex optical path) with inexpensive alternatives (simple light receiving element and basic optical components). The light receiving element can be a standard, mass-produced component rather than a specialized image sensor, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining sufficient angle detection precision for the application.
Solution Approach 2:
By extracting the angle detection function into a separate, simplified subsystem, the patent eliminates the need for expensive image sensors and complex optical paths in the main scanning system. This separation allows the use of cheaper components specifically optimized for angle detection without compromising the overall system performance.
3Measurement precision
If a complex optical path design is used, then angle detection precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical system into two independent parts: the main scanning optical path and the angle detection optical path. The angle detection uses a simplified optical path with minimal components (light source, reflection unit, light receiving element), while the main scanning path handles the primary scanning function. This segmentation allows each subsystem to be optimized independently, with the detection path being simple and cost-effective.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflection unit acts as an intermediary element that serves both the main scanning function and the angle detection function. By detecting the angle at which the reflection unit redirects light into the simple detection optical path, the system indirectly measures the reflection unit angle without requiring direct observation or complex measurement apparatus.
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
Enables accurate detection of the reflection unit's angle with a simplified configuration, reducing costs and complexity while maintaining precise angle measurement capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a reflection unit (3) that swings while reflecting light rays from a light source for changing a light travelling direction and scan light
Data Source
Figure 1~2(B)
Figure 3
Figure 4(A)~4(E)
AI summary
Provided is an optical scanning device (1). The optical scanning device (1) includes a swingable reflection member (3); a blocking unit (4) provided in the reflection member (3) to move in linkage with the reflection member (3), wherein the blocking unit (4) includes at least a first blocking plate (401) disposed on a lower side of the reflection member (3) and a second blocking plate (402) disposed on an upper side of the reflection member (3); and a sensor unit (6) including an output unit (7) configured to output a detection target and a detection unit (5) configured to detect the detection target. The output unit (7) is at a position that faces the detection unit (5). When the reflection member (3) is in a predetermined swing angle range, the blocking unit (4) blocks a path of the detection target between the output unit (7) and the detection unit (5).