Multiple beam scanning system for an imaging device
US5912458A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 18, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jun 15, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 18, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N1/2038
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A multiple beam scanning system for an imaging device, such as a photoplotter and scanner, includes a plurality of scanning assemblies slidably coupled to a spar that extends the length and parallel to the longitudinal axis of a scanning surface of an internal drum. The scanning assemblies simultaneously reflect a plurality of optical beam to or from a plate of media disposed on the scanning surface. A photoplotter includes a plurality of independently controlled optical beam generators that emit an optical beam to a corresponding scanning assembly which then reflects the optical beams to the media. A scanner includes a plurality of optical beam receivers that generate imaging signals indicative of the optical beam reflected from the media by each corresponding scanning assembly. The optical beam generators and receivers may be disposed at one end of the internal drum. This embodiment requires the rearward scanning assembly include an optical periscope for reflecting the optical beam parallel to the longitudinal axis of the internal drum. A controller generates independent drive signals to move each of the scanning assemblies along the spar at a preferred rate for scanning the medi…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.