Evaluation of oscillatory actuator for optical scanner

Optical scanners are applicable to various devices, for example, a distribution system and a handy terminal (potable instrument). Potable instruments are expected to work precisely and efficiently. They must be miniaturized and thinned. The authors manufacture and evaluate an oscillatory actuator (prototype) with two torsion bar springs for an optical scanner. The prototype has outer dimensions of 20 × 14 × 6 mm³, and is smaller than a conventional laser module. It generates torque that realizes the target scanning angle ± = 54 degrees. The mechanical time constant T_m is 191 ms. To meet the target specification, T_m decreased to 70.2 %.