Scanning apparatuses with floating window member

摘要

The present invention is directed to a hand-held scanning device (10) in which the scanning device housing window (150) is attached directly to the optical assembly (40). In this manner, alignment between the window (150) and the optical assembly (40) may be maintained even when the housing (20) is being subjected to stress. The window (150) is also designed to float with respect to at least a portion of the housing (20), thus allowing the housing (20) to flex without causing movement of the window (150) relative to the optical assembly (40). A tortuous path seal arrangement (360) may be provided between the window (150) and the housing (20). The tortuous path seal (360) allows the housing (20) to move relatively to the window (150), and yet inhibits the entry of dust and other contaminants into the interior(21) of the housing (20) through the space provided between the window (150) and the housing (20). <IMAGE>