Developer which discharges used carrier particles using a magnetic valve
US5095338A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 21, 1991 |
| Grant date | Mar 10, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 21, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG03G15/0844
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A developer unit which develops an electrostatic latent image recorded on a photoconductive member used in an electrophotographic printing machine. The developer unit uses a developer material which ages during the life of the electrophotographic printing machine. Additional developer material having at least carrier granules and toner particles, is supplied to the developer material in the developer unit to extend the life of the developer material. Discharge of developer material from the developer unit is controlled by a permanent magnet and an electromagnet positioned adjacent an exit port in the developer unit. The permanent magnet generates a magnetic flux field in the region of the exit port to form a developer material curtain which prevents the passage of developer material from the exit port. When the electromagnet is energized, it generates a magnetic flux field which attracts developer material from the developer material curtain. Upon de-energization of the electromagnet, the developer material attracted thereto is discharged therefrom.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.