Optical Scanning Apparatus Fixation Wall Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical scanning apparatuses face challenges in accurately positioning incidence optical elements, leading to deviations in scanned surface positions and reduced image quality, especially when trying to increase scan speed or downsize the apparatus.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a configuration where optical elements, such as cylindrical lenses, are fixed to a fixation wall at their edge surfaces in the main-scanning direction, allowing for precise alignment and reducing the need for high-accuracy positioning of incidence optical elements, thereby maintaining consistent light distributions and improving image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If incidence optical elements are disposed side by side in the sub-scanning direction with high accuracy, then the positions of scanned surfaces in the main-scanning direction are accurately maintained, but the apparatus becomes larger and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple incidence optical elements (cylindrical lenses and quarter-wave plates) onto a single substrate plate, integrating functions that would otherwise require separate components. This merging approach maintains positioning accuracy while reducing the number of discrete elements and simplifying the overall optical system arrangement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from arranging optical elements side by side in the sub-scanning direction to disposing them at different locations on a two-dimensional substrate plate surface. This dimensional approach allows precise positioning without requiring linear alignment, reducing complexity while maintaining accuracy
2Area of stationary object
If incidence optical elements are disposed in close proximity for downsizing, then the apparatus size is reduced, but it becomes difficult to form bearing surfaces and position elements with required accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple optical elements are integrated onto a single substrate plate, allowing them to be disposed in close proximity while maintaining accurate relative positioning through the unified substrate structure. This eliminates the need for separate bearing surfaces for each element
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate plate serves as an intermediary carrier that provides a unified reference frame for positioning multiple optical elements. This mediator enables close proximity disposal while maintaining manufacturing precision through the substrate's inherent structural accuracy
3Area of stationary object
If the angle between multiple optical systems is increased at long distance, then the apparatus can be downsized, but the apparatus actually gets upsized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent arranges optical elements on a two-dimensional substrate plate surface rather than along a linear optical path. This allows light beams to be separated in the sub-scanning direction while maintaining compact overall dimensions, avoiding the need for long optical paths
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 enables accurate and cost-effective positioning of optical elements, preventing deviations in scanned surface positions and maintaining consistent light distributions, which enhances image quality and allows for increased scan speeds without compromising the apparatus's size.
Implementation Method 1
a first optical member that is provided on a first optical path between the first light source and the deflector, and that guides the first light beam emitted from the first light source to the deflector
Data Source
AI summary
An optical scanning apparatus constructed to dispose optical elements guiding light beams to a deflector such as a rotary polygon mirror at a low cost with high accuracy, includes a first light source, a second light source, a deflector, a first optical member provided on a first optical path between the first light source and the deflector, a second optical member provided on a second optical path between the second light source and the deflector, and one wall holding both of a side surface of the first optical member and a side surface of the second optical member.