Scanning optical system having image forming optical system and reading optical system with at least one common optical component

摘要

A scanning optical system having an image forming optical system for emitting a scanning beam modulated in accordance with image information onto a destination surface. The scanning optical system further includes a reading optical system for receiving light reflected from an object surface to obtain image information from the object surface. Both systems make use of at least one common optical component, for example, a polygonal mirror, a cylindrical mirror, a common optical path or a toric lens.