US3743540A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Surface cleaning by ionized flow
Assignee: Individual
•
Filing: 1971-08-30
•
Granted: 1973-07-03
•
Expires: 1991-08-30
Abstract
Abstract Method and apparatus for cleaning a residual toner powder image bearing surface after transfer of substantially all of a charged toner image therefrom to a support member. Fans or air pumps are utilized to direct a flow of ionized air to the surface to be cleaned. The ionized air is directed to the surface and neutralizes any charge on the residual particles remaining on the surface after image transfer to allow the particles to be readily removed. The ionization is produced by corona discharge, and illuminating means may also be included.
Inventors
- 👤 F Hudson
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-27 23:23
CPC Classifications
G; G03; G03G; G03G21/00; G03G21/0005; G03G21/0052
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 8
Claim 1
Independent Claim
31 words
The apparatus of claim 1 further including airflow generating means for generating a flow of fluid of a sufficient velocity to remove from the surface particles neutRalized by ions carried thereto.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
14 words
The apparatus of claim 1 including means to convey particles from the support surface.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
24 words
The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said duct is supported within a casing for retaining and recirculating said separately generated airflow within said casing.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
18 words
The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said casing includes filter means for collecting airborne electroscopic particles circulated therethrough.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
16 words
The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said casing includes ports to create a predetermined airflow thereto.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
25 words
The apparatus of claim 1 including nozzle means supported from said duct to direct said separately generated airflow onto the surface at a predetermined angle.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
18 words
The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said casing includes means adapted to reduce the pressure therein below atmospheric.
Claim 8
Independent Claim
76 words
The method of removing electrically charged particles from a photosensitive support surface comprising generating a quantity of positive and negative ions with means including a corona electrode, directing airflow generated separately from the corona electrode past said corona electrode and through a duct onto the support surface to convey ions to the support surface and to the particles thereon and illuminating with light the areas of the photosensitive support surface onto which the airflow is directed.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1976-07-02 | 1977-01-01 | 1977-07-03 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1980-07-02 | 1981-01-01 | 1981-07-03 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1984-07-02 | 1985-01-01 | 1985-07-03 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |