Single-pass imaging method using spatial light modulator and anamorphic projection optics

摘要

Substantially one-dimensional scan line images at 1200 dpi or greater are generated in response to predetermined scan line image data. A substantially uniform two-dimensional homogenous light field is modulated using a spatial light modulator in accordance with the predetermined scan line image data such that the modulated light forms a two-dimensional modulated light field. The modulated light field is then anamorphically imaged and concentrated to form the substantially one-dimensional scan line image. The spatial light modulator includes light modulating elements arranged in a two-dimensional array. The light modulating elements are disposed such that each modulating element receives an associated homogenous light portion, and is individually adjustable between an “on” modulated state and an “off” modulated state, whereby in the “on” modulated state each modulating element directs its received light portion onto a corresponding region of the anamorphic optical system, and in the “off” state blocks or diverts the light portion.

主权项

1. A method for generating a substantially one-dimensional scan line image made up of a one-dimensional series of light pixels in response to predetermined scan line image data, the method comprising:
generating homogenous light by causing one or more light sources to generate one or more light beams having a first flux density such that all of said generated one or more light beams is directed into a homogenizer, and such that the homogenous light leaving said homogenizer forms a substantially uniform two-dimensional homogenous light field and has a second flux density, wherein the first flux density is greater than the second flux density; modulating the homogenous light in accordance with the predetermined scan line image data such that the modulated light forms a two-dimensional modulated light field; and anamorphically imaging and concentrating the modulated light such that the concentrated modulated light forms the substantially one-dimensional scan line image, wherein each of said light pixels comprises simultaneously combined portions of said two-dimensional modulated light field received from a plurality of light modulating elements that are aligned substantially perpendicular to said scan line, wherein anamorphically concentrating the modulated light comprises: projecting and magnifying said modulated light portions in a cross-process direction using first and second focusing lenses such that the modulated light portions remain parallel in a process direction between the first and second focusing lenses, and concentrating said modulated light portions in a direction parallel to the process direction using a third focusing lens positioned downstream from said first and second lenses.