Patent · US Expired

Multi-functional fuser backup roll release mechanism

US6253046A · kind A · utility

39Cited by
39References
27Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateApr 19, 2000
Grant dateJun 26, 2001
Priority date
Expiry dateApr 19, 2020

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC G)Physics
  • CPC primaryG03G2215/20
  • WIPO fieldOptics
  • WIPO sectorInstruments

Abstract

A multi-functional fuser backup roll release mechanism and operating process are defined. In the event of a paper jam, the primary gear train from a prime mover to driven rolls of the imaging apparatus is interrupted, and a secondary drive train is engaged. The drive train operates a drive shaft, rotating a worm gear to control a cam and lever apparatus connected to springs and bellcranks at opposite ends of the backup roll. Upon the detection of a paper jam, or prolonged inactivity of the fuser, the nip between the fuser hot roll and backup roll is opened. During normal operation, the mechanism can be used to control the nip force between the fuser roll and the backup roll, to provide the optimal nip load for the media being processed, and the print glossiness desired.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.