Radiant energy – Photocells; circuits and apparatus – Photocell controlled circuit
Reexamination Certificate
1998-12-11
2001-07-31
Lee, John R. (Department: 2878)
Radiant energy
Photocells; circuits and apparatus
Photocell controlled circuit
C250S234000, C250S229000, C358S474000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06268599
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a scanner, in particular to a function control key for the scanner.
In traditional design for a scanner, the control key is a mechanical switch, which triggers certain operation to start or produces a certain signal to trigger a pre-programmed function. To accomplish such a series of operations, a number of switching operations may be required for connection to a special motherboard with circuits for different functions. The multiple switches, the multiple wiring connections, and the extra mother board all increase the cost of the scanner.
Further more, electronic switches must carry current. Such current carrying switches may wear out in time.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of this invention is to use a single switch to perform a sequence of operations. Another object of this invention is to control optically a series of circuit functions. Still another object of this invention is to construct a switch which optically controls circuit functions without carrying any current.
These objects are achieved by using a push-button sequential switch in the path of a light.
When the push-button is depressed or moved to different positions, different degree of optical reflection or transmission occurs. The light reflections or transmissions in the two positions are used to irradiate the pixels of a light sensitive panel. The pixels are divided into different sections, each designated to a particular function of the scanner. The difference in reflection or transmission is used to activate the selected function.
REFERENCES:
patent: 5371359 (1994-12-01), Hagiuda et al.
patent: 5942746 (1999-08-01), Tsai
Chen Jih-Yam
Chen Michael
Lin Jack
Avision Inc.
Lee John R.
Lin H. C.
Patent Agent
Pyo Kevin
LandOfFree
Optical sensor switch system for a scanner does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.
If you have personal experience with Optical sensor switch system for a scanner, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Optical sensor switch system for a scanner will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-2560586