Segmented Lens Array Plate for Image Reading Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for manufacturing long, planar-shaped lens array plates face challenges such as high manufacturing costs and optical performance deterioration due to increased technical load and warp, especially when trying to maintain thinness and enlarge the width, and the method of connecting optical sheets results in light loss and image deterioration at the connecting portions.
Innovation Solution
A lengthy lens array plate is formed by connecting multiple planar-shaped lens array plates with a connecting portion at a position other than the lens portions, allowing for low-cost production without the need for a specialized molding die and minimizing light loss by optimizing the distance between connected lens arrangement lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If conventional methods are used to manufacture long, planar-shaped lens array plates, then the lens array plate can be produced, but manufacturing cost increases and optical performance deteriorates due to warp and technical load
Solution Approach 1:
The lens array plate is divided into multiple smaller planar-shaped lens array plates that are connected together. Each smaller plate can be manufactured with standard molding dies, avoiding the warp and technical load issues of manufacturing a single long plate. The segmented plates are then connected at positions other than lens portions to form the required long lens array plate, maintaining optical performance while enabling long-length production.
2Length of stationary object
If conventional methods are used to manufacture long, planar-shaped lens array plates, then the lens array plate can be produced, but manufacturing cost increases due to specialized molding dies
Solution Approach 1:
The lens array plate is divided into multiple smaller planar-shaped lens array plates that are connected together. Each smaller plate can be manufactured with standard molding dies, avoiding the warp and technical load issues of manufacturing a single long plate. The segmented plates are then connected at positions other than lens portions to form the required long lens array plate, maintaining optical performance while enabling long-length production.
3Length of stationary object
If optical sheets are connected to form long lens array plates, then the required length can be achieved, but light loss and image deterioration occur at connecting portions
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting portions are extracted from the lens portions, meaning connections are made at positions other than where lens portions are located. This separation ensures that light paths through the lens portions are not interrupted by connecting structures, eliminating light loss and image deterioration at connection points while still achieving the required total length through assembly of multiple plates.
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 approach enables the production of longer or larger area lens array plates with lower optical performance deterioration at a lower cost, maintaining high image quality by reducing light loss and image distortion at the connecting points.
Implementation Method 1
The light 514b obtained from irradiating point 516 (for example, for an image reading apparatus the reflected light from an original, or for an image writing apparatus the irradiating light from a light-emitting element) is focused into focusing point 518 through the erecting unit magnification lens array plate.
Data Source
AI summary
A lens array plate of long-size or large area is provided reducing deterioration of optical performance. A lengthy lens array plate (10), which is based on manufacturing process in accordance with the present invention, is formed by connecting a plurality of planar-shaped lens array plates (1) in the longer direction thereof, the planar-shaped lens array plate (1) including a plurality of lens portions that are regularly arranged. The connecting portion (3) is linearly formed at the position other than the plurality of lens portions. Thereby, a lengthy lens array plate with any length may be formed.