Optical linear encoder and recording apparatus using the same
US6264303A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 27, 1996 |
| Grant date | Jul 24, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 27, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01D5/34753
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A detection unit for optically detecting the position of a carriage via a linear scale is fixed to the rear surface of the carriage that moves along the linear scale, and an absorber which serves as a cleaning member and can absorb liquid is fixed to the detection unit. The absorber moves upon movement of the carriage and slides on the scale to absorb and remove liquid contaminants such as ink, water droplets, or the like attached to the surface of the scale. Hence, generation of an error signal and a drop in signal output caused by contamination on the scale surface can be prevented, and high-resolution, high-precision position detection can be realized.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.