JP2010175688A - Optical scanner and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an optical scanner in which the angles of respective light sources are accurately adjusted in a short period of time. <P>SOLUTION: A light source 2,200a and a light source 2,200b are held on a holding member 125A and a holding member 125B, respectively, and mounted on the outer wall 120a of an optical housing, being adjacent to each other in a sub scanning direction. The distance between the holding member 125A and the holding member 125B in the sub scanning direction is broadened from the central part toward the end part in a main scanning direction. In this case, even when the distance between the light sources is small, the adjustable angles of the light source 2,200a and the light source 2,200b are made larger than conventional types without interfering with other holding members. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an optical scanning apparatus and an image forming apparatus, and more particularly to an optical scanning apparatus that scans a surface to be scanned with a light beam and an image forming apparatus including the optical scanning apparatus.

  As an image forming apparatus that forms an image using the Carlson process, for example, the surface of a rotatable photosensitive drum is scanned, a latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum, and the latent image is visualized. An image forming apparatus is known that forms an image by fixing the toner image on a sheet as a recording medium. In recent years, this type of image forming apparatus is often used for simple printing as an on-demand printing system, and demands for higher image density and faster image output are increasing.

  Therefore, recently, a light source such as a multi-beam laser diode capable of emitting a plurality of laser beams or a surface emitting laser array in which a plurality of light emitting units are monolithically arranged in a two-dimensional manner is provided. There has been proposed an image forming apparatus capable of simultaneously scanning a surface to be scanned with a plurality of laser beams.

  In an optical scanning device used in this type of image forming apparatus, a beam pitch (scanning line interval) is adjusted by rotating a light source for emitting a plurality of laser beams around the optical axis of a scanning optical system. ing. Various techniques for adjusting the beam pitch have been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2).

  From a first viewpoint, the present invention is an optical scanning device that scans a surface to be scanned in a main scanning direction with a light beam, and includes a plurality of first light sources and second light sources each having a plurality of light emitting units. A light source; and an optical system for condensing light beams from the plurality of light sources on the scanned surface and moving a light spot on the scanned surface in a main scanning direction; An optical housing in which the first light source and the second light source are attached adjacent to each other in a sub-scanning direction orthogonal to a main scanning direction; and the first and second light sources attached to the optical housing individually. A first holding member and a second holding member that can be held and rotated about an axis in a direction orthogonal to both the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. 2 holding members At least one of the inclined portions is provided with a central portion in the main scanning direction as a base point so that an interval between the first holding member and the second holding member in the sub scanning direction is widened, and an end portion in the main scanning direction is provided. The optical scanning device is characterized in that the distance between the first holding member and the second holding member is equal to or greater than the distance at the end point of the inclined portion.

  According to this, the angle adjustment of each light source can be performed with high accuracy in a short time.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, at least one image carrier; and at least one optical scanning device according to the invention that scans the at least one image carrier with a light beam modulated according to image information; An image forming apparatus.

  According to this, since the optical scanning device of the present invention is provided, as a result, a high-quality image can be formed.

1 is a diagram for describing a schematic configuration of a color printer according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. It is FIG. (1) for demonstrating schematic structure of an optical scanning device. FIG. 3 is a second diagram for explaining a schematic configuration of the optical scanning device; FIG. 3 is a third diagram for explaining a schematic configuration of the optical scanning device; FIG. 4 is a diagram (part 4) for explaining a schematic configuration of the optical scanning device; FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C are diagrams for explaining the schematic configuration of the light source. It is a figure for demonstrating the light emission part of a light source. It is a figure for demonstrating the core housing and subhousing of an optical housing. It is a figure for demonstrating the optical element accommodated in a core housing. It is a figure for demonstrating the outer wall 120a of a core housing. It is FIG. (1) for demonstrating attachment of the light source to the outer wall 120a. It is FIG. (2) for demonstrating attachment of the light source to the outer wall 120a. It is a figure for demonstrating holding member 125A. It is a figure for demonstrating holding member 125B. It is a figure for demonstrating attachment of the holding member to the outer wall 120a. It is a figure for demonstrating the screw used for attachment of each holding member. It is a figure for demonstrating the rotation method of a holding member. FIGS. 18A and 18B are diagrams for explaining the adjustment of the distance between the two light emitting units in the sub-scanning direction by the rotation of the holding member. It is a figure for demonstrating the outer wall 120b of a core housing. It is a figure for demonstrating attachment of the light source to the outer wall 120b. It is a figure for demonstrating holding member 125C. It is a figure for demonstrating holding member 125D. It is a figure for demonstrating attachment of the holding member to the outer wall 120b. It is a figure for demonstrating integration of a core housing and a subhousing. It is a figure for demonstrating the prior art example of a holding member. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification of a holding member.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 shows a schematic configuration of a color printer 2000 according to an embodiment.

  The color printer 2000 is a tandem multi-color printer that forms a full-color image by superimposing four colors (black, cyan, magenta, and yellow), and includes an optical scanning device 2010, four photosensitive drums (2030a, 2030b, 2030c, 2030d), 4 cleaning units (2031a, 2031b, 2031c, 2031d), 4 charging chargers (2032a, 2032b, 2032c, 2032d), 4 developing rollers (2033a, 2033b, 2033c, 2033d), 4 Toner cartridges (2034a, 2034b, 2034c, 2034d), transfer belt 2040, fixing roller 2050, paper feed roller 2054, registration roller pair 2056, paper discharge roller 2058, paper feed tray 2060, paper discharge Ray 2070, and includes a communication controller 2080, and a printer controller 2090 for totally controlling the above elements.

  In this specification, in the XYZ three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system, the direction along the longitudinal direction of each photosensitive drum is described as the Y-axis direction, and the direction along the arrangement direction of the four photosensitive drums is described as the X-axis direction.

  The communication control device 2080 controls bidirectional communication with a host device (for example, a personal computer) via a network or the like.

  Each photosensitive drum has a photosensitive layer formed on the surface thereof. That is, the surface of each photoconductive drum is a surface to be scanned. Each photosensitive drum is rotated in the direction of the arrow in the plane of FIG. 1 by a rotation mechanism (not shown).

  The photosensitive drum 2030a, the charging charger 2032a, the developing roller 2033a, the toner cartridge 2034a, and the cleaning unit 2031a are used as a set, and form an image forming station (hereinafter also referred to as “K station” for convenience) that forms a black image. Constitute.

  The photosensitive drum 2030b, the charging charger 2032b, the developing roller 2033b, the toner cartridge 2034b, and the cleaning unit 2031b are used as a set and form an image forming station (hereinafter also referred to as “C station” for convenience) that forms a cyan image. Constitute.

  The photosensitive drum 2030c, the charger 2032c, the developing roller 2033c, the toner cartridge 2034c, and the cleaning unit 2031c are used as a set, and form an image forming station (hereinafter also referred to as “M station” for convenience) that forms a magenta image. Constitute.

  The photosensitive drum 2030d, the charging charger 2032d, the developing roller 2033d, the toner cartridge 2034d, and the cleaning unit 2031d are used as a set, and form an image forming station (hereinafter also referred to as “Y station” for convenience) that forms a yellow image. Constitute.

  Each charging charger uniformly charges the surface of the corresponding photosensitive drum.

  Based on the multicolor image information (black image information, cyan image information, magenta image information, yellow image information) from the higher-level device, the optical scanning device 2010 charges the light flux modulated for each color correspondingly. Irradiate each surface of the photosensitive drum. As a result, on the surface of each photoconductive drum, the charge disappears only in the portion irradiated with light, and a latent image corresponding to the image information is formed on the surface of each photoconductive drum. The latent image formed here moves in the direction of the corresponding developing roller as the photosensitive drum rotates. The configuration of the optical scanning device 2010 will be described later.

  The toner cartridge 2034a stores black toner, and the toner is supplied to the developing roller 2033a. The toner cartridge 2034b stores cyan toner, and the toner is supplied to the developing roller 2033b. The toner cartridge 2034c stores magenta toner, and the toner is supplied to the developing roller 2033c. The toner cartridge 2034d stores yellow toner, and the toner is supplied to the developing roller 2033d.

  As each developing roller rotates, the toner from the corresponding toner cartridge is thinly and uniformly applied to the surface thereof. Then, when the toner on the surface of each developing roller comes into contact with the surface of the corresponding photosensitive drum, the toner moves only to a portion irradiated with light on the surface and adheres to the surface. In other words, each developing roller causes toner to adhere to the latent image formed on the surface of the corresponding photosensitive drum so as to be visualized. Here, the toner-attached image (hereinafter referred to as “toner image” for convenience) moves in the direction of the transfer belt 2040 as the photosensitive drum rotates.

  The yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toner images are sequentially transferred onto the transfer belt 2040 at a predetermined timing, and are superimposed to form a color image.

  Recording paper is stored in the paper feed tray 2060. A paper feed roller 2054 is disposed in the vicinity of the paper feed tray 2060, and the paper feed roller 2054 takes out recording sheets one by one from the paper feed tray 2060 and conveys them to a pair of registration rollers 2056. The registration roller pair 2056 sends the recording paper toward the transfer belt 2040 at a predetermined timing. As a result, the color image on the transfer belt 2040 is transferred to the recording paper. The recording sheet transferred here is sent to the fixing roller 2050.

  In the fixing roller 2050, heat and pressure are applied to the recording paper, whereby the toner is fixed on the recording paper. The recording paper fixed here is sent to a paper discharge tray 2070 via a paper discharge roller 2058 and is sequentially stacked on the paper discharge tray 2070.

  Each cleaning unit removes toner (residual toner) remaining on the surface of the corresponding photosensitive drum. The surface of the photosensitive drum from which the residual toner has been removed returns to the position facing the corresponding charging charger again.

  Next, the configuration of the optical scanning device 2010 will be described.

  2 to 5 as an example, the optical scanning device 2010 includes four light sources (2200a, 2200b, 2200c, 2200d), four coupling lenses (2201a, 2201b, 2201c, 2201d), four openings. Plate (2202a, 2202b, 2202c, 2202d), four cylindrical lenses (2204a, 2204b, 2204c, 2204d), polygon mirror 2104, four fθ lenses (2105a, 2105b, 2105c, 2105d), eight folding mirrors (2106a, 2106b, 2106c, 2106d, 2108a, 2108b, 2108c, 2108d), 4 toroidal lenses (2107a, 2107b, 2107c, 2107d), 4 light detection sensors (2205a, 2205b) 2205c, 2205d), 4 single light detection mirror (2207a, includes 2207b, 2207c, 2207d), and the like scanning control device (not shown). These are assembled at predetermined positions of the optical housing 2300 (not shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, see FIG. 5).

  In the following, for convenience, the direction corresponding to the main scanning direction is abbreviated as “main scanning corresponding direction”, and the direction corresponding to the sub scanning direction is abbreviated as “sub scanning corresponding direction”.

  For convenience, the direction along the optical axis of the coupling lens 2201a and the coupling lens 2201b is referred to as “w1 direction”, and the main scanning corresponding direction in the light source 2200a and the light source 2200b is referred to as “m1 direction”. Furthermore, a direction along the optical axis of the coupling lens 2201c and the coupling lens 2201d is referred to as “w2 direction”, and a main scanning corresponding direction in the light source 2200c and the light source 2200d is referred to as “m2 direction”. Note that the sub-scanning corresponding direction in the light source 2200a and the light source 2200b and the sub-scanning corresponding direction in the light source 2200c and the light source 2200d are both the same direction as the Z-axis direction.

  The light source 2200b and the light source 2200c are disposed at positions separated from each other in the X-axis direction. The light source 2200a is disposed on the −Z side of the light source 2200b. The light source 2200d is arranged on the −Z side of the light source 2200c.

  The coupling lens 2201a is disposed on the optical path of the light beam emitted from the light source 2200a, and makes the light beam a substantially parallel light beam.

  The coupling lens 2201b is disposed on the optical path of the light beam emitted from the light source 2200b, and makes the light beam a substantially parallel light beam.

  The coupling lens 2201c is disposed on the optical path of the light beam emitted from the light source 2200c, and makes the light beam a substantially parallel light beam.

  The coupling lens 2201d is disposed on the optical path of the light beam emitted from the light source 2200d, and makes the light beam a substantially parallel light beam.

  The aperture plate 2202a has an aperture and shapes the light beam that has passed through the coupling lens 2201a.

  The aperture plate 2202b has an aperture and shapes the light beam that has passed through the coupling lens 2201b.

  The aperture plate 2202c has an aperture and shapes the light beam that has passed through the coupling lens 2201c.

  The aperture plate 2202d has an aperture and shapes the light beam that has passed through the coupling lens 2201d.

  The cylindrical lens 2204 a forms an image of the light beam that has passed through the opening of the aperture plate 2202 a in the vicinity of the deflection reflection surface of the polygon mirror 2104 in the Z-axis direction.

  The cylindrical lens 2204b forms an image of the light beam that has passed through the opening of the aperture plate 2202b in the vicinity of the deflection reflection surface of the polygon mirror 2104 in the Z-axis direction.

  The cylindrical lens 2204 c forms an image of the light beam that has passed through the opening of the aperture plate 2202 c in the vicinity of the deflection reflection surface of the polygon mirror 2104 in the Z-axis direction.

  The cylindrical lens 2204d forms an image of the light flux that has passed through the opening of the aperture plate 2202d in the vicinity of the deflection reflection surface of the polygon mirror 2104 in the Z-axis direction.

  An optical system composed of two coupling lenses (2201a, 2201b), two aperture plates (2202a, 2202b), and two cylindrical lenses (2204a, 2204b) is unitized as a pre-deflector optical system 102A.

  Similarly, an optical system composed of two coupling lenses (2201c, 2201d), two aperture plates (2202c, 2202d) and two cylindrical lenses (2204c, 2204d) is unitized as a pre-deflector optical system 102B. ing.

  The polygon mirror 2104 has a four-stage mirror having a two-stage structure, and each mirror serves as a deflection reflection surface. The light beam from the cylindrical lens 2204a and the light beam from the cylindrical lens 2204d are deflected by the first-stage (lower) tetrahedral mirror, respectively, and the light beam from the cylindrical lens 2204b and the cylindrical light are deflected by the second-stage (upper) tetrahedral mirror. It arrange | positions so that the light beam from the lens 2204c may be deflected, respectively. Note that the first-stage tetrahedral mirror and the second-stage tetrahedral mirror rotate with a phase shift of 45 °, and writing scanning is alternately performed in the first and second stages.

  Here, the light beams from the cylindrical lens 2204 a and the cylindrical lens 2204 b are deflected to the −X side of the polygon mirror 2104, and the light beams from the cylindrical lens 2204 c and the cylindrical lens 2204 d are deflected to the + X side of the polygon mirror 2104.

  Each fθ lens has a non-arc surface shape having such a power that the light spot moves at a constant speed in the main scanning direction on the surface of the corresponding photosensitive drum as the polygon mirror 2104 rotates.

  The fθ lens 2105a and the fθ lens 2105b are disposed on the −X side of the polygon mirror 2104, and the fθ lens 2105c and the fθ lens 2105d are disposed on the + X side of the polygon mirror 2104.

  The fθ lens 2105a and the fθ lens 2105b are stacked in the Z-axis direction, the fθ lens 2105a is opposed to the first-stage tetrahedral mirror, and the fθ lens 2105b is opposed to the second-stage tetrahedral mirror. Further, the fθ lens 2105c and the fθ lens 2105d are stacked in the Z-axis direction, the fθ lens 2105c is opposed to the second-stage tetrahedral mirror, and the fθ lens 2105d is opposed to the first-stage tetrahedral mirror.

  Therefore, the light beam from the cylindrical lens 2204a deflected by the polygon mirror 2104 is irradiated onto the photosensitive drum 2030a through the fθ lens 2105a, the folding mirror 2106a, the toroidal lens 2107a, and the folding mirror 2108a, thereby forming a light spot. The This light spot moves in the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 2030a as the polygon mirror 2104 rotates. That is, the photosensitive drum 2030a is scanned. The moving direction of the light spot at this time is the “main scanning direction” on the photosensitive drum 2030a, and the rotational direction of the photosensitive drum 2030a is the “sub-scanning direction” on the photosensitive drum 2030a.

  The light beam from the cylindrical lens 2204b deflected by the polygon mirror 2104 is irradiated onto the photosensitive drum 2030b through the fθ lens 2105b, the folding mirror 2106b, the toroidal lens 2107b, and the folding mirror 2108b, and a light spot is formed. The This light spot moves in the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 2030b as the polygon mirror 2104 rotates. That is, the photosensitive drum 2030b is scanned. The moving direction of the light spot at this time is the “main scanning direction” on the photosensitive drum 2030b, and the rotational direction of the photosensitive drum 2030b is the “sub-scanning direction” on the photosensitive drum 2030b.

  The light beam from the cylindrical lens 2204c deflected by the polygon mirror 2104 is irradiated to the photosensitive drum 2030c through the fθ lens 2105c, the folding mirror 2106c, the toroidal lens 2107c, and the folding mirror 2108c, and a light spot is formed. The This light spot moves in the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 2030c as the polygon mirror 2104 rotates. That is, the photosensitive drum 2030c is scanned. The moving direction of the light spot at this time is the “main scanning direction” on the photosensitive drum 2030c, and the rotational direction of the photosensitive drum 2030c is the “sub-scanning direction” on the photosensitive drum 2030c.

  The light beam from the cylindrical lens 2204d deflected by the polygon mirror 2104 is irradiated onto the photosensitive drum 2030d through the fθ lens 2105d, the folding mirror 2106d, the toroidal lens 2107d, and the folding mirror 2108d, and a light spot is formed. The This light spot moves in the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 2030d as the polygon mirror 2104 rotates. That is, the photosensitive drum 2030d is scanned. The moving direction of the light spot at this time is the “main scanning direction” on the photosensitive drum 2030d, and the rotational direction of the photosensitive drum 2030d is the “sub-scanning direction” on the photosensitive drum 2030d.

  Each folding mirror is arranged so that the optical path lengths from the polygon mirror 2104 to each photosensitive drum coincide with each other, and the incident position and the incident angle of the light flux on each photosensitive drum are equal to each other. ing.

  Further, the cylindrical lens and the corresponding toroidal lens constitute a surface tilt correction optical system in which the deflection point and the corresponding photosensitive drum surface are conjugated in the sub-scanning direction.

  An optical system disposed on the optical path between the polygon mirror 2104 and each photosensitive drum is also called a scanning optical system. In this embodiment, a scanning optical system of the K station is configured by the fθ lens 2105a, the toroidal lens 2107a, and the folding mirrors (2106a and 2108a). Further, the scanning optical system of the C station is composed of the fθ lens 2105b, the toroidal lens 2107b, and the folding mirrors (2106b, 2108b). The f-theta lens 2105c, the toroidal lens 2107c, and the folding mirrors (2106c, 2108c) constitute the M station scanning optical system. Further, a scanning optical system of the Y station is configured by the fθ lens 2105d, the toroidal lens 2107d, and the folding mirrors (2106d and 2108d).

  A part of the light beam before the start of writing out of the light beam deflected by the polygon mirror 2104 and passed through the scanning optical system of the K station enters the light detection sensor 2205a via the light detection mirror 2207a.

  The light detection sensor 2205b is deflected by the polygon mirror 2104, and a part of the light beam before starting writing out of the light beam via the scanning optical system of the C station enters through the light detection mirror 2207b.

  The light detection sensor 2205c is deflected by the polygon mirror 2104, and a part of the light beam before starting writing out of the light beam via the scanning optical system of the M station enters through the light detection mirror 2207c.

  A part of the light beam before the start of writing out of the light beam deflected by the polygon mirror 2104 and passed through the scanning optical system of the Y station enters the light detection sensor 2205d via the light detection mirror 2207d.

  Each of the light detection sensors outputs a signal (photoelectric conversion signal) corresponding to the amount of received light.

  The scanning control device detects the scanning start timing on the corresponding photosensitive drum based on the output signal of each light detection sensor.

  As shown in FIGS. 6A to 6C as an example, the light source 2200a includes a cylindrical main body a1, a circular plate-shaped stem a2, and four leads extending from the stem a2 in the −w1 direction. A terminal a3 is provided. The stem a2 is formed with two V-shaped cutouts a4 facing each other. Furthermore, a concave notch a5 is formed in the stem a2.

  The light source 2200a includes two light emitting units (L1, L2) as shown in FIG. 7 as an example. That is, the light source 2200a is a multi-beam laser diode. These two light emitting portions (L1, L2) are accommodated in the main body a1 and mounted on the stem a2. The two light emitting units (L1, L2) are on a straight line passing through the center of the light source 2200a in a plane orthogonal to the w1 direction, and are disposed at positions where the distances from the center are equal to each other. Note that the positional relationship between each light emitting unit and each notch is not limited to this.

  The other light sources (light source 2200b, light source 2200c, and light source 2200d) are also multi-beam laser diodes and have the same configuration as that of the light source 2200a.

  As shown in FIG. 8 as an example, the optical housing 2300 includes a core housing 120 and a sub-housing 110.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the core housing 120 includes a first portion having a rectangular shape in plan view in which a polygon mirror 2104 and four fθ lenses (2105a, 2105b, 2105c, and 2105d) are accommodated, and a pre-deflector optical system 102A. And a second portion in which the pre-deflector optical system 102B is accommodated. As an example, this container is made of aluminum die cast.

  Further, the wall surface on the + Y side of the container includes an outer wall 120a and an outer wall 120b inclined by about 30 degrees with respect to the XZ plane. A light source 2200a and a light source 2200b are attached to the outer wall 120a, and a light source 2200c and a light source 2200d are attached to the outer wall 120b.

The outer wall 120a, as shown in FIG. 10 as an example, two fitting portions (121A, 121B), 4 screw holes _{(122A 1, 122A 2, 122B} 1, 122B 2), like the four T-shaped notches _{(123A 1, 123A 2, 123B} 1, 123B 2) is formed.

The fitting portion 121A, the two screw holes (122A ₁ , 122A ₂ ), and the two T-shaped notches (123A ₁ , 123A ₂ ) are used as a set and correspond to the K station. The fitting portion 121B, the two screw holes (122B ₁ , 122B ₂ ), and the two T-shaped notches (123B ₁ , 123B ₂ ) are used as a set and correspond to the C station.

  The two fitting parts (121A, 121B) are formed adjacent to each other in the Z-axis direction. Here, the fitting part 121B is formed on the + Z side of the fitting part 121A.

  Each fitting part is a circular stepped opening. The fitting part 121A is a fitting part to which the light source 2200a is attached, and the fitting part 121B is a fitting part to which the light source 2200b is attached.

Threaded hole 122A ₁ is a -m1 side of the fitting portion 121A, and is formed on the -Z side, the screw hole 122A ₂ is a + m1 side of the fitting portion 121A, and is formed on the -Z side.

Notch 123A ₁ is a -m1 side of the screw hole 122A _1, and is formed on the -Z side, notches 123A ₂ is a + m1 side of the screw hole 122A _2, and is formed on the -Z side.

And the center of the fitting portion 121A, and the center of the screw hole 122A _1, a line connecting the center of the notch 123A ₁ is a straight line and is inclined in the -Z side of the m1 direction (inclination angle theta ₃₎ . Further, the center of the fitting portion 121A, and the center of the screw hole 122A _2, the line connecting the center of the notch 123A ₂ is a straight line, the inclination on the -Z side relative m1 direction (inclination angle theta ₄₎ and ing.

Threaded hole 122B ₁ is a -m1 side of the fitting portion 121B, and is formed on the + Z side, the threaded hole 122B ₂ is formed in + m1 side of the fitting portion 121B, and the + Z side.

Notch 123B ₁ is a -m1 side of the screw hole 122B _1, and is formed on the + Z side, notches 123B ₂ is formed in + m1 side of the screw hole 122B _2, and the + Z side.

And the center of the fitting portion 121B, and the center of the threaded hole 122B _1, the line connecting the center of the notch 123B ₁ is linear and is inclined to the + Z side with respect to m1 direction (inclination angle theta _1). Further, the center of the fitting portion 121B, and the center of the screw hole 122B _2, the line connecting the center of the notch 123B ₂ is a straight line, the inclination on the + Z side with respect to m1 direction (inclination angle theta ₂₎ to Yes.

  In the present embodiment, the inclination angles are the same. Each inclination angle may be different.

  11 and 12 show a state in which the light source 2200a is attached to the fitting part 121A and the light source 2200b is attached to the fitting part 121B. In addition, each fitting part is made with the fitting tolerance of a light source and the extent of sliding. At this time, the stem of each light source is in contact with the stepped portion of the fitting portion.

The light source 2200a is fixed to the outer wall 120a via the holding member 125A. As shown in FIG. 13 as an example, the holding member 125A is an inverted V-shaped plate member, and includes an opening 125A ₁ , two round holes (125A ₂ , 125A ₃ ), two slits (125A ₄ , 125A ₅ ) is formed. Instead of the round holes (125A ₂ , 125A ₃ ), long holes whose longitudinal direction is a direction parallel to the adjacent short sides may be formed.

Opening 125A ₁ is a circular opening which stem a1 of the light source 2200a is inserted, is formed in the center of the holding member 125A. The opening 125A _1, projections 125A ₆ that is engaged concave notch a5 stem a2 is provided. Also, around the opening 125A _1, the -w1 side, three locking claws 125A ₇ which is brought into contact with -w1 side surface of the stem a2 is provided. It should be noted that the shape of Kakukakaritometsume 125A ₇ may be the same.

Round hole 125A ₂ corresponds to the screw hole 122A _1, at -m1 side of the opening 125A _1, and is formed on the -Z side. Round hole 125A ₃ corresponds to the threaded holes 122A _2, at + m1 side of the opening 125A _1, and is formed on the -Z side.

Slit 125A ₄ is formed on the -m1 end corresponding to the T-shaped notch 123A _1, the slits 125A ₅ is formed so as to correspond to the T-shaped notch 123A ₂ + m1 end ing.

The light source 2200b is fixed to the outer wall 120a via the holding member 125B. As shown in FIG. 14 as an example, the holding member 125B is a V-shaped plate member, and includes an opening 125B ₁ , two round holes (125B ₂ , 125B ₃ ), and two slits (125B ₄ , 125B). ₅ ) is formed. That is, the holding member 125B has the same shape as that obtained by rotating the holding member 125A by 180 degrees around an axis parallel to the w1 direction. Instead of the round holes (125B ₂ , 125B ₃ ), long holes whose longitudinal direction is a direction parallel to the adjacent short sides may be formed.

Opening 125B ₁ is a circular opening which stem of the light source 2200b is inserted, it is formed in the center of the holding member 125B. The opening 125B _1, protrusion 125B ₆ that is engaged outs concave cut stem is provided. Also, around the opening 125B _1, the -w1 side, three locking claws 125B ₇ which is brought into contact with -w1 side surface of the stem is provided. It should be noted that the shape of Kakukakaritometsume 125B ₇ may be the same.

The round hole 125B ₂ corresponds to the screw hole 122B ₁ and is formed on the −m1 side of the opening 125B ₁ and on the + Z side. Round hole 125B ₃ corresponds to the screw hole 122B _2, which is formed on at + m1 side of the opening 125B _1, and the + Z side.

Slit 125B ₄ is formed on the -m1 end corresponding to the T-shaped notch 123B _1, the slits 125B ₅ is formed so as to correspond to the T-shaped notch 123B ₂ + m1 end ing.

  The surfaces of the holding member 125A and the holding member 125B that face the lead terminals of the light source are, for example, vinyl-coated and have an insulating property. In addition, the whole surface of each holding member may have insulation. Moreover, it is not limited to a vinyl coating, and in short, it should just have insulation.

Holding member 125A, as shown in FIG. 15, the stem a2 of the light source 2200a is inserted into the opening 125A _1, concave notches a5 stem a2 is engaged with the protrusion 125A _6, 3 single locking in a state where -w1 side surface of the stem a2 to pawl 125A ₇ is abutting, by a screw 126 inserted into the round hole 125A ₂ and a round hole 125A ₃ is screwed on the outer wall 120a, attached to the outer wall 120a It has been. As shown in FIG. 16 as an example, the screw 126 has an elastic member for pressing the holding member 125A against the outer wall 120a. As a result, the light source 2200a is in a state in which its posture is stably defined with respect to the core housing 120.

Returning to Figure 15, the holding member 125B is fitted into the stem of the light source 2200b to the opening 125B _1, the protrusion 125B ₆ notched stem concave of the is engaged, the stem into three claws 125B ₇ in a state where -w1 side surface of which abuts, by a screw 126 inserted into the round hole 125B ₂ and a round hole 125B ₃ is screwed on the outer wall 120a, is attached to the outer wall 120a. As a result, the light source 2200b is in a state in which its posture is stably defined with respect to the core housing 120.

  By the way, the degree of screw tightening when temporarily fixing the holding member 125A to the outer wall 120a is slightly looser than that at the time of main fixing (the holding member 125A is not rotated by screw tightening at the time of main fixing, for example, at the time of main fixing. When the screw is tightened with a force of 70 to 80%, the holding member 125A can rotate around an axis parallel to the w1 direction through the center of the light source 2200a in a temporarily fixed state.

Here, as shown in FIG. 17 as an example, between the notches 123A ₁ of slits 125A ₄ and the outer wall 120a of the holding member 125A, for example, by inserting the tip of the screwdriver 127, the screwdriver 127 The holding member 125A is rotated by turning (twisting) around an axis parallel to the w1 direction. As the holding member 125A rotates, the light source 2200a rotates about an axis passing through the center and parallel to the w1 direction. That is, the angle adjustment of the light source 2200a is performed.

  For example, when the light source 2200a is rotated counterclockwise by an angle α from the state shown in FIG. 18A, as shown in FIG. 18B, the Z of the two light emitting units (L1, L2) The distance in the axial direction can be set to d. As a result, the beam pitch of the two light beams emitted from the light source 2200a is d.

  Similarly, if the degree of screw tightening at the time of temporarily fixing the holding member 125B to the outer wall 120a is made slightly looser than that at the time of the main fixing, the holding member 125B is positioned in the center of the light source 2200b in the temporarily fixed state. It is possible to turn around an axis parallel to the w1 direction. Therefore, when the holding member 125B is rotated in the same manner as the holding member 125A, the light source 2200b is rotated about an axis parallel to the w1 direction through the center. That is, the angle of the light source 2200b can be adjusted.

  Here, since the holding member 125A is an inverted V-shaped plate member and the holding member 125B is a V-shaped plate member, an angular range in which the holding member 125A can be rotated without being interfered by other holding members. Can be made wider than before in any holding member.

Further, as shown in FIG. 19, the outer wall 120b has two fitting parts (121C, 121D), four screw holes (122C ₁ , 122C ₂ , 122D ₁ , 122D ₂ ), four T-shaped Notches (123C ₁ , 123C ₂ , 123D ₁ , 123D ₂ ) are formed.

The fitting portion 121C, two screw holes (122C ₁ , 122C ₂ ), and two T-shaped notches (123C ₁ , 123C ₂ ) are used as a set and correspond to the M station. The fitting portion 121D, the two screw holes (122D ₁ , 122D ₂ ) and the two T-shaped cutouts (123D ₁ , 123D ₂ ) are used as a set and correspond to the Y station.

  The two fitting parts (121C, 121D) are formed adjacent to each other in the Z-axis direction. Here, the fitting portion 121C is formed on the + Z side of the fitting portion 121D.

  Each fitting part is a circular stepped opening. The fitting part 121C is a fitting part to which the light source 2200c is attached, and the fitting part 121D is a fitting part to which the light source 2200d is attached.

Threaded hole 122C ₁ is a -m2 side of the fitting portion 121C, and is formed on the + Z side, the screw hole 122C ₂ is formed in + m2 side of the fitting portion 121C, and the + Z side.

Notch 123C ₁ is a -m2 side of the screw hole 122C _1, and is formed on the + Z side, notches 123C ₂ is formed in + m2 side of the screw hole 122C _2, and the + Z side.

And the center of the fitting portion 121C, and the center of the threaded hole 122C _1, a line connecting the center of the notch 123C ₁ is linear and is inclined to the + Z side with respect to m2 direction (inclination angle theta _1). Further, the center of the fitting portion 121C, and the center of the screw hole 122C _2, a line connecting the center of the notch 123C ₂ is a straight line, the inclination in respect m2 direction + Z side (the inclination angle theta ₂₎ to Yes.

Threaded hole 122D ₁ is a -m2 side of the fitting portion 121D, and is formed on the -Z side, the screw hole 122D ₂ is a + m2 side of the fitting portion 121D, and is formed on the -Z side.

Notch 123D ₁ is a -m2 side of the screw hole 122D _1, and is formed on the -Z side, notches 123D ₂ is a + m2 side of the screw hole 122D _2, and is formed on the -Z side.

And the center of the fitting portion 121D, and the center of the screw hole 122D _1, a line connecting the center of the notch 123D ₁ is a straight line, is inclined on the -Z side relative m2 direction (inclination angle theta ₃₎ . Further, the center of the fitting portion 121D, and the center of the screw hole 122D _2, the line connecting the center of the notch 123D ₂ is a straight line, the inclination on the -Z side relative m2 direction (inclination angle theta ₄₎ and ing.

  In the present embodiment, the inclination angles are the same. Each inclination angle may be different.

  FIG. 20 shows a state in which the light source 2200c is attached to the fitting part 121C and the light source 2200d is attached to the fitting part 121D. In addition, each fitting part is made with the fitting tolerance of a light source and the extent of sliding. At this time, the stem portion of each light source is in contact with the stepped portion of the fitting portion.

The light source 2200c is fixed to the outer wall 120b via a holding member 125C having the same shape as the holding member 125B. As shown in FIG. 21 as an example, the holding member 125C is a V-shaped plate member, and includes an opening 125C ₁ , two round holes (125C ₂ , 125C ₃ ), and two slits (125C ₄ , 125C). ₅ ) is formed. Instead of the round holes (125C ₂ , 125C ₃ ), long holes whose longitudinal direction is a direction parallel to the adjacent short sides may be formed.

Opening 125C ₁ is a circular opening which stem of the light source 2200c are inserted, is formed in the center of the holding member 125C. The opening 125C _1, protrusions 125C ₆ that is engaged outs concave cut stem is provided. Also, around the opening 125C _1, the -w2 side, three locking claws 125C ₇ which is brought into contact with -w2 side surface of the stem is provided. It should be noted that the shape of Kakukakaritometsume 125C ₇ may be the same.

Round hole 125C ₂ corresponds to the screw hole 122C _1, and is formed on at -m2 side of the opening 125C _1, and the + Z side. Round hole 125C ₃ corresponds to the screw hole 122C _2, and is formed on at + m2 side of the opening 125C _1, and the + Z side.

Slit 125C ₄ is formed on the -m2 end corresponding to the T-shaped notch 123C _1, slit 125C ₅ is formed so as to correspond to the T-shaped notch 123C ₂ + m @ 2 side end portion ing.

The light source 2200d is fixed to the outer wall 120b via a holding member 125D having the same shape as the holding member 125A. As shown in FIG. 22 as an example, the holding member 125D is an inverted V-shaped plate member, and includes an opening 125D ₁ , two round holes (125D ₂ , 125D ₃ ), and two slits (125D ₄ , 125D ₅ ) is formed. Instead of the round holes (125D ₂ , 125D ₃ ), long holes whose longitudinal direction is a direction parallel to the adjacent short sides may be formed.

Opening 125D ₁ is a circular opening which stem of the light source 2200d is inserted, it is formed in the center of the holding member 125D. The opening 125D ₁ is provided with a protrusion 125D ₆ that is engaged with the concave notch of the stem. Also, around the opening 125D _1, in -w2 side, three locking claws 125D ₇ which is brought into contact with -w2 side surface of the stem is provided. It should be noted that the shape of Kakukakaritometsume 125D ₇ may be the same.

Round hole 125D ₂ corresponds to the screw hole 122D _1, in -m2 side of the opening 125D _1, and is formed on the -Z side. Round hole 125D ₃ corresponds to the screw hole 122D _2, in + m2 side of the opening 125D _1, and is formed on the -Z side.

Slit 125D ₄ is formed on the -m2 end corresponding to the T-shaped notch 123D _1, slit 125D ₅ is formed so as to correspond to the T-shaped notch 123D ₂ + m @ 2 side end portion ing.

  The surfaces of the holding member 125C and the holding member 125D that face the lead terminals of the light source are, for example, vinyl-coated and have an insulating property. In addition, the whole surface of each holding member may have insulation. Moreover, it is not limited to a vinyl coating, and in short, it should just have insulation.

Holding member 125C is as shown in Figure 23, the stem of the light source 2200c to the opening 125C ₁ is inserted, the protrusion 125C ₆ stem concave cutouts to is engaged, the three locking claws 125C ₇ -w2 side surface of the stem in a state of being contact, by a screw 126 inserted into the round hole 125C ₂ and a round hole 125C ₃ is screwed on the outer wall 120b, it is attached to the outer wall 120b to the. As a result, the light source 2200c is in a state in which its posture is stably defined with respect to the core housing 120.

Holding member 125D is the opening 125D ₁ is the stem of the light source 2200d fitted, the stem protrusion 125D ₆ concave notch is engaged, the -w2 side of the stem to the three engaging claws 125D ₇ while the surface is in contact, by a screw 126 inserted into the round hole 125D ₂ and a round hole 125D ₃ is screwed on the outer wall 120b, is attached to the outer wall 120b. As a result, the light source 2200d is in a state in which its posture is stably defined with respect to the core housing 120.

  If the degree of screw tightening for temporarily fixing the holding member 125C to the outer wall 120b is set slightly looser than that for the main fixing, the holding member 125C passes through the center of the light source 2200c and w2 in the temporarily fixed state. It can be rotated around an axis parallel to the direction. Therefore, when the holding member 125C is rotated in the same manner as the holding member 125A, the light source 2200c is rotated about an axis parallel to the w2 direction through the center. That is, the angle of the light source 2200c can be adjusted.

  In addition, if the degree of screw tightening when temporarily fixing the holding member 125D to the outer wall 120b is set slightly looser than that during the main fixing, the holding member 125D passes through the center of the light source 2200d in the temporarily fixed state. , And can be rotated around an axis parallel to the w2 direction. Therefore, when the holding member 125D is rotated in the same manner as the holding member 125A, the light source 2200d is rotated about an axis parallel to the w2 direction through the center. That is, the angle of the light source 2200d can be adjusted.

  Here, since the holding member 125C is a V-shaped plate member and the holding member 125D is an inverted V-shaped plate member, an angular range in which the holding member 125C can be rotated without being interfered by other holding members. Can be made wider than before in any holding member.

  Returning to FIG. 8, the sub-housing 110 includes a pair of side plates (111, 112) that face each other in the Y-axis direction, and five connecting members 113 that connect these side plates. Each side plate is disposed such that the longitudinal direction thereof coincides with the X-axis direction.

  Each side plate is manufactured, for example, by processing a metal plate into a sheet metal. Each side plate has a plurality of openings. In addition, a rectangular cutout is formed at the center of the side plate 112, and a bent portion 112a in which a part of the side plate 112 is bent horizontally is formed in the cutout.

  The connecting member 113 is a long member having a U-shaped cross section, and both end portions in the Y-axis direction are fixed to the side plates. Thereby, the side plate 111 and the side plate 112 are connected in a parallel state.

  The sub-housing 110 includes four toroidal lenses (2107a, 2107b, 2107c, 2107d), eight folding mirrors (2106a, 2106b, 2106c, 2106d, 2108a, 2108b, 2108c, 2108d), four light detection sensors (2205a, 2205b, 2205c, 2205d), four light detection mirrors (2207a, 2207b, 2207c, 2207d) and the like are held.

  The lower surface of the core housing 120 is supported by the bent portion 112a, and the −Y side surface of the core housing 120 is fixed to the side plate 111 with a bolt or the like. Thereby, the core housing 120 and the sub-housing 110 are integrated (refer FIG. 24).

  As is clear from the above description, in the optical scanning device 2010 according to the present embodiment, the optical system is configured by the pre-deflector optical system, the polygon mirror 2104, and the scanning optical system.

  As described above, according to the optical scanning device 2010 according to the present embodiment, the four light sources (2200a, 2200b, 2200c, 2200d) each having a plurality of light emitting units correspond to the respective light beams from the four light sources. An optical system that focuses light on the surface of the photosensitive drum and moves a light spot on the surface of the photosensitive drum in the main scanning direction, and an optical housing 2300 that houses the optical system and that has four light sources attached thereto. Four holding members (125A, 125B, 125C, 125D) for holding the four light sources individually and fixing the light source to the optical housing 2300 are provided.

  The light source 2200a and the light source 2200b are respectively held by the holding member 125A and the holding member 125B, and are attached to the optical housing 2300 adjacent to the Z-axis direction (sub-scanning corresponding direction). The holding member 125 </ b> A and the holding member 125 </ b> B are wide in the Z-axis direction from the center to the end in the m <b> 1 direction (main scanning corresponding direction). In this case, even if the distance between the light sources in the Z-axis direction is short, the angle range in which each light source can be rotated without interference by other holding members can be made wider than before. . That is, the adjustment angle of each light source can be made larger than before.

  The light source 2200c and the light source 2200d are respectively held by the holding member 125C and the holding member 125D, and are attached to the optical housing 2300 adjacent to the Z-axis direction (sub-scanning corresponding direction). The distance between the holding member 125C and the holding member 125D in the Z-axis direction increases from the center to the end in the m2 direction (main scanning corresponding direction). In this case, even if the distance between the light sources in the Z-axis direction is short, the angle range in which each light source can be rotated without interference by other holding members can be made wider than before. . That is, the adjustment angle of each light source can be made larger than before.

  An example of a conventional holding member is shown in FIG. In this case, since the interval between the two holding members in the Z-axis direction is uniform and narrow, when one holding member is rotated, it immediately collides with another holding member. That is, the adjustment angle of each light source is small. Therefore, conventionally, before the light source is held by the holding member, it has been necessary to adjust the intervals between the light emitting portions of the plurality of light emitting portions so as to be substantially desired. This has led to a complicated process and a long adjustment time. Further, even if the light source is accurately adjusted before being held by the holding member, the light source may be rotated by screw tightening at the time of fixing (main fixing).

  In this embodiment, since the adjustment angle of each light source can be made larger than in the past, before the light source is held by the holding member, the light emitting unit intervals of the plurality of light emitting units are adjusted so as to be approximately desired. There is no need to keep it. Therefore, the angle adjustment of each light source can be accurately performed in a short time. As a result, it becomes possible to improve productivity more than before.

  In the present embodiment, the degree of screw tightening when temporarily fixing the holding member to the outer wall of the optical housing 2300 is slightly less than that during the main fixing, so that the slit of the holding member and the notch portion of the outer wall For example, the holding member is rotated by inserting a tip of a minus driver and turning the minus driver. In this case, there is no fear that the light source is rotated by screwing at the time of fixing (main fixing), and the angle adjustment of the light source can be easily performed.

  In this embodiment, the holding member is permanently fixed to the outer wall of the optical housing 2300 after adjusting the angle of the light source. In this case, even if an external force is applied to the optical housing 2300 after adjusting the angle of the light source, the light source can be prevented from rotating or moving (shifting).

  In this embodiment, the line connecting the center of the fitting portion formed on the outer wall of the optical housing, the center of one screw hole corresponding to the fitting portion, and the center of the one notch portion is a straight line. Therefore, when the holding member is rotated, it can be rotated with good balance.

  Moreover, since the screw 126 has an elastic member for pressing each holding member against the outer wall of the optical housing, the torque when rotating each holding member can be stabilized. As a result, shortening of the adjustment time can be promoted.

  In addition, since the surface of each holding member that faces the lead terminal of the light source has an insulating property, the light source can be prevented from being destroyed by static electricity.

  Further, since the color printer 2000 according to the present embodiment includes the optical scanning device 2010, a high-quality image can be formed as a result.

  In the above embodiment, instead of the holding member 125A and the holding member 125B, as shown in FIG. 26 as an example, one of the long sides of the conventional holding member is inclined with respect to the m1 direction to perform sub-scanning. The interval between the holding members in the corresponding direction may be increased from the center to the end in the main scanning corresponding direction. Even in this case, the adjustment angle of each light source can be made larger than before. At this time, it is good also considering the said inclination as the middle toward an edge part from a center part. In short, in at least one of the first holding member and the second holding member, an inclined portion in which the distance between the first holding member and the second holding member in the sub-scanning corresponding direction is wide in the main scanning corresponding direction. The central portion is provided as a base point, and the interval between the first holding member and the second holding member at the end in the main scanning correspondence direction may be equal to or greater than the interval at the end point of the inclined portion.

  Moreover, although the said embodiment demonstrated the case where there were four light sources, it is not limited to this. For example, you may have only two of the light source 2200a and the light source 200b. However, in this case, the number of photosensitive drums is also one or two.

  Moreover, although the said embodiment demonstrated the case where a holding member had two slits, it is not limited to this. For example, the holding member may have only one slit.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, a groove having a depth into which a tool such as a flat-blade screwdriver may be provided in the outer wall instead of the T-shaped notch formed in the outer wall of the optical housing 2300.

  In the above embodiment, instead of the T-shaped notch formed on the outer wall of the optical housing 2300, the holding member is rotated with a tool such as a flat-blade screwdriver corresponding to the slit of the holding member. The outer wall of the optical housing 2300 may have a structure capable of

  Moreover, although the said embodiment demonstrated the case where each light source had two light emission parts, it is not limited to this. In short, each light source may have a plurality of light emitting units.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the optical housing includes the core housing 120 and the sub-housing 110 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the optical housing includes an integral structure of the core housing and the sub-housing. Also good.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the case of the color printer 2000 including a plurality of photosensitive drums has been described as the image forming apparatus. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a single photosensitive drum is scanned with a plurality of light beams to obtain a single color. The present invention can also be applied to a printer that forms an image.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the optical scanning device 2010 is used in a printer has been described. However, the present invention is also suitable for an image forming apparatus other than a printer, for example, a copier, a facsimile, or a multifunction machine in which these are integrated. .

  As described above, the optical scanning device of the present invention is suitable for accurately adjusting the angle of each light source in a short time. The image forming apparatus of the present invention is suitable for forming a high quality image.

102A ... pre-deflector optical system (a part of the optical system), 102B ... (part of the optical system) pre-deflector optical system, 125A-125D ... holding member, 125A 4 _... slit, 125A 5 _... slit, 125B ₄ ... Slit, 125B ₅ ... Slit, 125C ₄ ... Slit, 125C ₅ ... Slit, 125D ₄ ... Slit, 125D ₅ ... Slit, 126 ... Screw, 2000 ... Color printer (image forming apparatus), 2010 ... Optical scanning devices, 2030a to 2030d ... photosensitive drum (image carrier), 2104 ... polygon mirror (part of optical system), 2105a to 2105d ... fθ lens (part of optical system), 2106a to 2106d ... folding mirror (part of optical system), 2107a to 2107d ... Toroidal lens (part of the optical system), 2108a to 2108d ... Folded Mirror (part of the optical system), 2200a to 2200d ... light source, 2300 ... optical housing, L1 · · · emitting portion, L2 · · · emitting portion.

Japanese Patent No. 3666853 JP 2002-182141 A

Claims (12)

An optical scanning device that scans a surface to be scanned in a main scanning direction with a light beam,
A plurality of light sources including a first light source and a second light source each having a plurality of light emitting portions;
An optical system for condensing light beams from the plurality of light sources on the scanned surface and moving a light spot on the scanned surface in a main scanning direction;
An optical housing in which the optical system is housed and the first light source and the second light source are attached adjacent to each other in a sub-scanning direction orthogonal to a main scanning direction;
The first and second light sources attached to the optical housing are individually held, and can be rotated about an axis in a direction orthogonal to both the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. A second holding member;
At least one of the first holding member and the second holding member has an inclined portion in the main scanning direction in which the interval between the first holding member and the second holding member in the sub-scanning direction is widened. A light having a central portion as a base point, wherein an interval between the first holding member and the second holding member at an end portion in the main scanning direction is equal to or greater than an interval at an end point of the inclined portion. Scanning device.   An interval between the first holding member and the second holding member in the sub-scanning direction is wider from a central portion of each holding member in the main scanning direction toward the at least one end portion. The optical scanning device according to claim 1. Each of the first and second holding members is a plate member whose longitudinal direction is the main scanning direction,
3. The optical scanning device according to claim 1, wherein opposite sides of the first holding member and the second holding member are inclined with respect to a main scanning direction.   The first and second holding members are V-shaped plate members whose directions are opposite to each other with respect to the sub-scanning direction, and their central portions are close to each other. Optical scanning device. Each of the first and second light sources has a notch formed in a stem on which the plurality of light emitting units are mounted.
The first holding member has a protrusion engaged with the notch in the first light source attached to the optical housing,
The said 2nd holding member has a projection part engaged with the said notch in the said 2nd light source attached to the said optical housing, The Claim 1 characterized by the above-mentioned. Optical scanning device. The first and second holding members are provided with slits into which jigs are inserted when rotating each of the first and second holding members,
The said optical housing has a some notch part each provided corresponding to each slit of the said 1st and 2nd holding member, The Claim 1 characterized by the above-mentioned. Optical scanning device.   The optical scanning device according to claim 6, wherein the slit is provided at at least one end of the first and second holding members in the main scanning direction. The optical housing is formed with a plurality of screw holes for screwing the first holding member,
Provided corresponding to the center of the optical housing where the first light source is attached, the center of one screw hole for screwing the first holding member, and the slit of the first holding member. 8. The optical scanning device according to claim 6, wherein a line connecting the center of the one notch portion is a straight line.   The optical scanning device according to claim 8, wherein a screw used for screwing the first holding member includes an elastic member for pressing the first holding member against the optical housing. The first and second light sources each have a plurality of lead terminals,
10. The optical scanning device according to claim 1, wherein surfaces of the first and second holding members facing the lead terminals have insulating properties. At least one image carrier;
An image forming apparatus comprising: at least one optical scanning device according to claim 1 that scans the at least one image carrier with a light beam modulated according to image information.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the image information is multicolor image information.

Images