Compact Scan Bar Assembly Using Nested Spacer Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scan bar assemblies in optical scanners have limitations in reducing overall size, particularly in the direction perpendicular to the scan direction, which hinders the miniaturization of scanners and multi-function printers, affecting user convenience and cost savings.
Innovation Solution
A compact scan bar assembly design featuring an illuminating unit longer than the photosensor array, with spacer members positioned such that the distance between their inner sides is greater than the photosensor array length but less than the illuminating unit length, allowing for a more compact configuration that reduces the footprint of the scanner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional scan bar assembly configuration is used, then scanning functionality is maintained, but the overall size and footprint of the scanner cannot be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer members are positioned nested within the boundaries defined by the illuminating unit, with the distance between inner sides of spacer members being less than the illuminating unit length. This nesting arrangement allows compact packaging of all functional components without compromising scanning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the arrangement by considering the dimensional relationship between the illuminating unit length and photosensor array length, and positioning spacer members at a specific distance that utilizes available space efficiently, reducing the overall footprint in the direction perpendicular to scan direction
2Area of stationary object
If scanner footprint is reduced for user convenience and cost savings, then compactness is improved, but scanning functionality may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer members are positioned at specific locations with precise spacing relationship to the illuminating unit, creating optimal local conditions for maintaining scanning effectiveness while achieving overall compactness. The distance between inner sides of spacer members is specifically controlled to be greater than photosensor array length but less than illuminating unit length
Data Source
AI summary
A scan bar assembly includes an illuminating unit including a first length; a photosensor array including a second length; and a first spacer member and a second spacer member, each of the first and second spacer members including: an inner side that is proximate the photosensor array; and an outer side that is distal to the photosensor array, wherein a distance between the inner side of the first spacer member and the inner side of the second spacer member is greater than the second length and less than the first length.