Abstract: Apparatus for aligning a scanner assembly in a laser scanning unit for an image forming device. A MEMS torsion oscillator is attached to a spherical base that is received by a socket in a laser scanning unit. The pivotal center of the scanner coincides with the center of the spherical base such that the center of the scanner does not move as the scanner is aligned in the skew, process, and scan directions. In various embodiments, the aligned relationship of the spherical base to the socket is maintained by an adhesive, a through-bolt, or a plurality of spring-biased adjustment screws. The configuration and location of the adjustment screws is such that adjustment of the scanner assembly is accomplished without blocking the laser beam used for alignment.

Abstract: A method for improving the operation of an electrophotographic printer. The method includes providing an electrophotographic printer containing a laser scanning unit. A torsion oscillator for the laser scanning unit is enclosed in closed compartment. The closed compartment includes side walls having first and second side wall edges, a bottom wall attached on the first side wall edges, and a cover attached adjacent to the second side wall edges. The closed compartment is sufficient to reduce stray air currents from adjacent the torsion oscillator thereby improving the operation of the electrophotographic printer.