Laser scanning unit and image forming apparatus having the same

摘要

A laser scanning unit and an image forming apparatus employing the laser scanning unit including a light source generating light; a polygon mirror that includes a plurality of reflection mirrors with a polygonal horizontal cross-section, and the polygon mirror rotates to scan the beam from the light source in a main scanning direction, and a light interruption member swinging between a shut position and an open position to selectively block or clear the light path to the polygon mirror according to whether the polygon mirror is operated or not. The light interruption member is swung to the opening position by air pressure generated during an operation of the polygon mirror and returns to the shut position by a restoration force when the polygon mirror stops rotating. The laser scanning unit and the image forming apparatus employing the laser scanning unit include a laser beam interruption structure to prevent body damage of the operators during maintenance and repair and to reduce additional manufacturing costs and installation space.