Scanner Calibration Member Separation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image reading apparatuses, vibrations from calibration members can cause flickers in read images, leading to decreased reading accuracy and image quality, and existing solutions either result in apparatus enlargement or interference between the scanner and calibration member during maintenance.
Innovation Solution
An image reading apparatus with a conveyance unit that includes a separation unit to lift the calibration member upward, disconnecting it from the housing, and a positioning system to maintain the calibration member's relative position to the scanner, preventing interference and vibrations from affecting image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the calibration member is directly linked with the scanner, then the calibration function is effective, but vibrations cause flickers in read images and degrade image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration member is extracted from the scanner assembly and mounted on a separate conveyance unit. This physical separation removes the vibration source from the scanner, eliminating flickers in read images while preserving the calibration function when the conveyance unit is in the extended position.
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyance unit is designed to be movable between extended and retracted positions. When extended, the calibration member is positioned for calibration operations; when retracted, it is moved away from the scanner to prevent vibration interference, creating a dynamic configuration that adapts to different operational modes.
2Ease of operation
If the conveyance unit is withdrawn from the housing, then maintenance access is improved, but the calibration member may interfere with the scanner due to weight-induced lowering
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is pre-configured to automatically support the calibration member when the conveyance unit is in the retracted position. This preliminary positioning action prevents the calibration member from lowering due to its own weight, eliminating potential interference with the scanner during maintenance operations.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the calibration member is drawn upward obliquely to separate it from the scanner, then interference is prevented, but the apparatus size must be increased to reserve space
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of separating the calibration member obliquely upward which requires additional space, the invention uses vertical separation through the movable conveyance unit mechanism. The calibration member is moved vertically along with the conveyance unit, achieving separation from the scanner without requiring additional horizontal or oblique space, thus maintaining compact apparatus dimensions.
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 effectively prevents image quality degradation by maintaining the calibration member's position relative to the scanner, avoiding interference and vibrations, while allowing for maintenance without enlarging the apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
a first calibration member connected to the conveyance unit, arranged above the first scanner, and structured to reflect light which is radiated from the first scanner
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading apparatus includes a first scanner provided in a housing, a conveyance unit, and a first calibration member. The conveyance unit is provided with a separation unit which separates the first calibration member upward from the first scanner. When the first calibration member is separated, the separation unit releases connection between the conveyance unit and the housing.