Scanner Apparatus Using Folded Optical Path for Compact Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional scanner apparatuses are bulky and require long scan times due to the direct placement of CCD image pickup devices on the optical path and the use of line scan methods.
Innovation Solution
A scanner apparatus that employs a 2D plane scan method by folding the light path using a reflecting means, such as a mirror, under the light source, and utilizing a combination of image lenses and an image sensor to reduce size and scan time, with specific lens configurations to correct aberrations and optimize focal distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a CCD image pickup device is disposed directly on the optical path, then high resolution image acquisition is achieved, but the overall size of the scanner apparatus is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a beam splitter and divides the optical path into two separate paths (first optical path to first CCD, second optical path to second CCD). This dimensional separation allows the image pickup devices to be positioned in different spatial locations rather than directly on the main optical path, thereby reducing the overall apparatus size while maintaining high resolution image acquisition capability through multiple parallel detection channels.
2Measurement precision
If a line scan method is used to acquire pixel images, then image quality is maintained, but the scan time required to scan the overall object is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging process by using multiple CCD devices (first CCD and second CCD) that simultaneously capture different portions of the object through divided optical paths. This segmentation enables parallel image acquisition, transforming the sequential line scan method into a concurrent multi-point detection system, thereby significantly reducing scan time while maintaining image quality through the combined data from multiple sensors.
3Measurement precision
If the aperture efficiency is set to 100% to achieve high spatial frequency contrast, then image resolution is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a beam splitter as an intermediary optical element that divides the incoming light into multiple paths without requiring the main optical system to operate at 100% aperture efficiency. This intermediary component enables the distribution of optical energy to multiple CCD sensors while maintaining adequate light intensity for high spatial frequency contrast, thereby achieving high resolution without the need for perfectly optimized single-path aperture settings.
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 reduces the overall size of the scanner apparatus and significantly decreases scan time by using a 2D plane scan method, while maintaining high optical quality through effective correction of spherical aberration, astigmatism, and distortion aberration.
Implementation Method 1
reflecting means placed under the light source at a specific angle of inclination with respect to a surface of the object, and configured to fold a path of the light when the light radiated by the light source is reflected from the object
Implementation Method 2
imaging means placed along a path of the light reflected from the reflecting means, and configured to condense light reflected from the reflecting means and then acquire an image of the object
Implementation Method 3
a light source located under an object, and configured to radiate light so that the light is reflected from the object
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a scanner apparatus. The scanner apparatus includes a light source, a reflecting means and an imaging means. The light source is located under an object, and radiates light so that the light is reflected from the object. The reflecting means is placed under the light source at a specific angle of inclination with respect to a surface of the object, and folds the path of the light when the light radiated by the light source is reflected from the object. The imaging means is placed along the path of the light reflected from the reflecting means, and condenses light reflected from the reflecting means and then acquires an image of the object.