CA1063156A - Multi-process control system for an electrophotographic printing machine - Google Patents
Multi-process control system for an electrophotographic printing machineInfo
- Publication number
- CA1063156A CA1063156A CA218,985A CA218985A CA1063156A CA 1063156 A CA1063156 A CA 1063156A CA 218985 A CA218985 A CA 218985A CA 1063156 A CA1063156 A CA 1063156A
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- probe
- photoconductive member
- printing machine
- electrical
- recited
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
- G03G—ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY
- G03G15/00—Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern
- G03G15/50—Machine control of apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern, e.g. regulating differents parts of the machine, multimode copiers, microprocessor control
- G03G15/5033—Machine control of apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern, e.g. regulating differents parts of the machine, multimode copiers, microprocessor control by measuring the photoconductor characteristics, e.g. temperature, or the characteristics of an image on the photoconductor
- G03G15/5037—Machine control of apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern, e.g. regulating differents parts of the machine, multimode copiers, microprocessor control by measuring the photoconductor characteristics, e.g. temperature, or the characteristics of an image on the photoconductor the characteristics being an electrical parameter, e.g. voltage
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Microelectronics & Electronic Packaging (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Control Or Security For Electrophotography (AREA)
- Discharging, Photosensitive Material Shape In Electrophotography (AREA)
- Electrostatic Charge, Transfer And Separation In Electrography (AREA)
- Developing For Electrophotography (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
An electrophotographic printing machine in which the electrical characteristics of the processing stations employed therein are regulated. The instantaneous condition of the photoconductive member is simulated and measured.
An electrical signal describing the state of the simulated photoconductive member is generated and employed to control the electrical parameters of the various processing stations in the printing machine.
The foregoing abstract is not intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor is it intended to be limiting as to the scope of the invention in any way.
An electrophotographic printing machine in which the electrical characteristics of the processing stations employed therein are regulated. The instantaneous condition of the photoconductive member is simulated and measured.
An electrical signal describing the state of the simulated photoconductive member is generated and employed to control the electrical parameters of the various processing stations in the printing machine.
The foregoing abstract is not intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor is it intended to be limiting as to the scope of the invention in any way.
Description
~06~5~i BACKGROUNI:) OF THE :I:NVENTION
This invention relates generally to an electro-photographic printing machine, and more particularly concerns an apparatus for controlling the various processing stations employed in the printing machine.
In the process of electrophotographic printing, a photoconductive surface is uniformly charged and exposed to a light image of an original document. Exposure of the photo-conductive surface records thereon an electrostatic laten~
image corresponding to the original document. The electro-static latent image is then rendered visible bsr depositing toner particles which adhere electrostatically thereto in image configuration. Thereater, the toner powder image may be transferred to a sheet of support material. The toner powder image is, then, permanently affixed to the support material providing a copy of the original document. The foregoing process was originally disclosed in U.S. Patent No.
This invention relates generally to an electro-photographic printing machine, and more particularly concerns an apparatus for controlling the various processing stations employed in the printing machine.
In the process of electrophotographic printing, a photoconductive surface is uniformly charged and exposed to a light image of an original document. Exposure of the photo-conductive surface records thereon an electrostatic laten~
image corresponding to the original document. The electro-static latent image is then rendered visible bsr depositing toner particles which adhere electrostatically thereto in image configuration. Thereater, the toner powder image may be transferred to a sheet of support material. The toner powder image is, then, permanently affixed to the support material providing a copy of the original document. The foregoing process was originally disclosed in U.S. Patent No.
2,297,691 issued to Carlson in 19~2.
In electrophotographic printing, the electrical characteristics of the photoconductive surface at each pro- -cessing station is critical. Preferably, the electrical characteristics of the photoconductive surface should be re-peated. However, it has been found that the electrical characteristics of the photoconductive surface will vary with temperature changes or with continuous usage thereof, i.e.
dark decay, etc. This causes difficulties in repeating the potential on the photoconductive surface for successive cycles at the various processing stations employed in electrophoto-graphic printing. To this end, electrometers have heretofore been employed to detect the characteristics of the photoconductive surface.
1~1163~5~;
The use of electrometers in electrophotographic printing is well known in the art. The major advantage of an electrometer is that it provides a direct measurement of the charge actually on a specific surface at the time the surface passes the electrometer probe. Thus, by positioning the probe after one of the !processing stations, the signal from the probe may be employed to control the station, However, an electrometer system is frequently employed only to control one of the processing stations. If all of the foregoing processing stations were to be controlled, one probe would be positioned after each processing station. This would provide a rather cumbersome system which would not be readily adaptable for employ~ent in a commercial machine, Various types of electrometer syskems, employed in the measurement of the electrical characteristics of the photoconductive surface, are known in the art. For ex~mple, U.S. Patent Nos. 2,781,705 issued in 1957 to Crumline, et al;
2,852,651 issued in 1958 to Crumline, et al.; 2,956,487 issued in 1960 to Giamo, Jr,; 3,013,203, issued in 1961 to Allen et al;
In electrophotographic printing, the electrical characteristics of the photoconductive surface at each pro- -cessing station is critical. Preferably, the electrical characteristics of the photoconductive surface should be re-peated. However, it has been found that the electrical characteristics of the photoconductive surface will vary with temperature changes or with continuous usage thereof, i.e.
dark decay, etc. This causes difficulties in repeating the potential on the photoconductive surface for successive cycles at the various processing stations employed in electrophoto-graphic printing. To this end, electrometers have heretofore been employed to detect the characteristics of the photoconductive surface.
1~1163~5~;
The use of electrometers in electrophotographic printing is well known in the art. The major advantage of an electrometer is that it provides a direct measurement of the charge actually on a specific surface at the time the surface passes the electrometer probe. Thus, by positioning the probe after one of the !processing stations, the signal from the probe may be employed to control the station, However, an electrometer system is frequently employed only to control one of the processing stations. If all of the foregoing processing stations were to be controlled, one probe would be positioned after each processing station. This would provide a rather cumbersome system which would not be readily adaptable for employ~ent in a commercial machine, Various types of electrometer syskems, employed in the measurement of the electrical characteristics of the photoconductive surface, are known in the art. For ex~mple, U.S. Patent Nos. 2,781,705 issued in 1957 to Crumline, et al;
2,852,651 issued in 1958 to Crumline, et al.; 2,956,487 issued in 1960 to Giamo, Jr,; 3,013,203, issued in 1961 to Allen et al;
3,068,056 issued in 1962 to Codichini; 3,321,307 issued to Urbach in 1967; 3,406,334 issued in 1969 to Marquart et al;
3,438,705 issued in 1969 to King; 3,611,982 issued in 1971 to Coriale; 3,654,893 issued in 1972 to Piper et al; 3,674,353 issued in 1972 to Tractenberg and 3,749,488 issued in 1973 to Delorme all describe the advantages of utilizing an elec-trometer to measure photoconductor charge. In particular, Delorme describes the automatic control of the exposure system by using an electrometer to detect the average charge of a photoconductive film during exposure. A sheet of zinc-oxide coated paper is positioned between a transparent, electrically ~l~63~L56 conductive sheet and a conductive grounded plate. The zinc-oxide coated paper functions as a photoconductive film. An electro-static latent image is produced on that ~ilm, This sheet is then removed for developing by the standard electrostatographic printing process. In the foregoing process, after the sandwich structure heretofore described is charged, it is exposed to a light image of the original document. The sandwich structure together with a high input impedence amplifier functions as an electrometer to provide an ou~put sig~al proportional to the average charge on the zinc-oxide paper. The signal from the amplifier, in conjunction with suitable electrical circuitry, is employed to vary the exposure time. Thus, in the foregoing patent, the length of time that the light image is projected onto the zinc~oxide plate is varied unt.il the charge remaining thereon reaches a preselected level.
The above efforts, in commercial rather than lab-oratory applications of electrometers to electrostatographic printing, have, as a practical matter, been hampered by the high cost, complexity, and instability of the systems. Most of the foregoing systems have required choppers or vibrating probes and expensive high voltage amplifiers and feedback ~ .
circuits. However, these patents illustrate the highly developed nature of this art. Other patents which disclose electrometer systems are U.S. Patent Nos. 3,370,228 issued in 1968 to Winder and 3,449,668 issued in 1969 to Blackwell, ..
et al. Examples of electrometer systems are disclosed in various tests. "Electrophotography" by Shaffert and "Xerography and Related Processes" by Dessauer and Clark both f:irst published in 1965 by Focal Press, Ltd. London, England, pgs. 99 through 100, inclusive, and 213 through 216, inclusive of ~ G3~5i6 "Electrophotograph~" relate specifically to electrQmeters. However, none of the foregoing references de~cri~e a relatively simple, low-cost rugged and accurate electrometer system which,readily enables all of the various processin~ stations within an electro- ~;
photographi~c printi`ng machine to be controlled.
~ccordingly r it is a primary aspect of the present invention to i`mprove the process of electrophotographic printing by continuously controlling the various process stations employed therein with an electrometer system.
Thus, in accordance with the present teachings, an electrophotographic printing machine of the type having a plurality of processing stations is provided. The machine includes a photoconductive member which is mounted movably in the printing machine and arranged to pass through each of the processing sta-tions. Probe means is provided mounted in the photoconductive member at a preselected location along the length thereof for monitoring the instantaneous potential of the photoconductive mem-ber to provide an electrical signal indicative of the instantane~
ous charge condition of the photoconductive member as a probe ,~
2Q passes relative to each processing station. `-Other advantages of the present invnetion will ;~, become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon reference to the drawings, in which:
3~ ~
'' . ~.: "
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B :
~l063:~ii6 F.igure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a color electrophotographic printing machine incorporating :~ ~
the features of the present invention therein; . ~ -~igure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the photoconductive drum employed in the Figure 1 printing machine ;~ :
and having the probe of the present invention mounted thereon;
Figure 3 is a fragmentary elevational view, in section, depicting the probe employed to simulate the photo~
conductive member;
Figure 4 is a schematic circuit diagram for periodically sampling the electrical signal from.the probe; ~ : .
Figure 5 is a schematic circuit diagram for con- ~ ;
t~Folling the corona generating device; :
Figure 6 is a schematic diagram for regulating :
the intensity of light rays exposing the charged photoconductive drum; :; ; ;
Figure 7 is a schematic diagram for regulating-the slectrical bias of the development system; .. :
Figure 8, appearing on the page containing Figures 4, 5 and 5, is a schematic diagram for regulating the electrical bias ~ :
of the transfer drum; and :..... ... ~ .
. . , - . ~ ~ .
Figure 9 is a schematic diagram for controlling : .
the dispensing of toner particles into the developer mix employed in the Figure 6 development system.
While the present invention will be described in ~:
connection with a preferred embodiment, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to that embodi~
ment. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, .~ .
modifications and equivalents as may be included within the .
spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF_T~E INVENTION
The present invention will be described in con-junction with a color electrophotographic printing machine.
For a general understanding of the printing machine continuous reference is had to the drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals have been used throughout to designate like elements. Initially, the overall process for producing color copies will be described. Thereafter, the detailed structural confi~uration of the various sub-assemblies employed in the printing machine will be described in conjunction with the present invention. Although the present invention is particularly well adapted for use in a color electrophoto-graphic printing machine, it should become evident from the following discussion that it is equally well-suited for other electrostatographic printing machines and is not necessarily ' limited to the particular embodiment shown herein.
As depicted in Figure l, the electrophotographic printing machine employs a photoconductive member having a drum 10 mourlted rotatably within the machine frame (not shown).
Photoconductive surface 12 is mounted on the exterior surface of drum 10. One type of suitable photoconductive material is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 3,655,377 issued to Sechak in 1972, In general, a suitable photoconductive member employs an aluminum substrate having a selenium layer adhering thereto.
A series of processing stations are disposed about the circum-ference of drum 10. Thus, as drum lO rotates in the direction of arrow 14 it passes sequentially therethrough. The present invention provides a closed loop system for controlling each of the processing stations. The operation of each processing station is substantially optimized for the specific characteristics ;3~6 of the photoconductive surface employed and the changes occurring thereto during the processing. The probe of the present invention, indicated generally by the reference numeral 16, may be mounted at a preselected location along the length of drum 10. However, one skilled in the art will realize that the probe may be mounted ~ovably on drum 10 so as to determine any variations in the electrical character istics of the drum in the lengthwise direction. Probe 16 is adapted to simulate the characteristics of the photocon-ductive surface and to produce an electrical signal indicative thereof. While probe 16 of the present invention is described hereinafter as being mounted on the photoconductive member, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention is not necessarily 90 limited, For example, probe 16 may be mounted adjacent to the photoconductive member after the processing station being controlled rather than ~h the photoconductive member. The detailed structural configuration of drum 10 and probe 16 will be described ~-hereinafter in greater detail with reference to Figures 2 and 3. A timing disc, mounted in the region of one end of the shaft of drum 10, cooperates with the machine logic to synchronize the various operations with the rotation of drum 10. In this manner, the proper sequence of events occurs at the respective processing station.
Initially, drum 10 rotates photoconductive surface 12 through charging station A. At charging station A, a corona generating device, indicated generally at 18, extends longitudinally in a transverse direction across photoconductive surfaca 12. This readily enables corona generator 18 to charge photoconductive surface 12 to a relatively high, substantially ~i3~6 uniform potential. It should be noted that probe 16 is also similarly charged. Preferably, corona generator 18 is of the type described in U.S. Patent No. 2,836,725 issued to Vyverberg in 1958. As is well known, this type of corona generator comprises a coronode wire connected to a high voltage source and supported in a conductive shield that is arranged in a closely spaced relation to photoconduct.ive surface 12. The shield generally surrounds the coronode wire except for an opening through which the charge is emitted. Preferably, the shield is arranged to attract surplus emissions from the coronod~ wire. When the coronode wire is energized, corona is generated along the surface of the wire and ions are caused to be deposited on adjacent photoconductive surface 12 and probe 16. The detailed structural configuration of corona lS generating device 18 and its relationship with probe 16 will be described hereinafter in greater detail with reference to Figure 5. Turning once again to Figure 1, after photoconduc-tive surface 12 and probe 16 are charged to a substantially uniform potential, drum 10 rotates to exposure station B.
At exposure station B, a colored filtered light image of original document 20 is projected onto the charged photoconductive surface 12 and probe 16. Exposure station B
includes a movi~g lens system, generally designated by the :
reference numeral 22, a color filter mechanism shown generally at 24, and scan lamps, shown generally at 26. Original document 20, such as a sheet of paper, book, or the like is placed face down upon a transparent viewing platen 28. As shown in Figure 1, lamps 26 are adapted to move in a timed relation with lens 22 and filter mechanism 24 to scan successive incremental areas ~ original document 20 disposed upon platen 26. It should _9_ ~L~63156 be noted that the foregoing movement is in synchronism with the rotation of drum 10 in the direction of arrow 14. This creates a flowing light image of original document 20 which is projected onto photoconductive surface 12. In operation, filter mechanism 24 interposes a selected color filter into the optical light path. This color fi:Lter operates on the light rays passing through lens 22 to record an electrostatic latent image on photoconductive surface 12 and to partially discharge probe 16. The electrostatic latent image recorded on photoconductive surface 12 corresponds to a preselected spectral region of the electromagnetic wave spectrum, here-inafter referred to as a single color electrostatic latent image, The manner in which the exposure system is conkrolled will be discussed hereinafter with reference to Figure 6.
~fter exposure, the single color electrostatic latent image recorded on photoconductive surface 12 and partially discharged probe 16 are advanced to development station C.
Development station C includes three individual units, generally indicated by the reference numerals 30, 32 and 34, respectively.
Preferably, the developer units are all of a type generally referred to in the art as "magnetic brush developer units".
A typical magnetic brush system employs a magnetizable developer mix which includes carrier granules and toner particles.
Generally, the toner particles are heat settable. In operation, the developer mix is continually brought through a directional flux field to form a brush thereof. The electrostatic latent image recorded on photoconductiwe surface 12 and partially discharged probe 16 are brought into contact with the brush of developer mix. The toner particles are attracted from the developer mix to the latent image and probe 16. Each of the , : :
~al6315~
developer units contain appropriately colored -toner particles.
For example, a green filtered electrostatic latent image is rendered visible by depositiny green absorbing magenta toner particles thereon. Similarly, blue and red latent images are developed with yellow and cyan toner particles, respectively.
As the toner particles are depleted from the system, additional toner particles are furnished thereto. Each developer unit contains a toner particle dispenser which stores a supply of colored toner particles therein. The probe of the present invention is employed to regulate the dispensing of toner particles to each of the respective developer units so as to maintain the concentration of toner particles within the developer mix substantially constant. This insures that the copy ~uality is maintained at a satisfactory level, The developmerrt system employed in the Figure 1 printing machine and its relationship with probe 16 will be discussed herein-after with reference to Figure 7. Similarly, the toner dis-pensing system and its relationship with probe 16 will be discussed hereinafter with reference to Figure 9.
Drum 10 is next rotated to transfer station D where the powder image adhering electrostatically to photoconductive surface 12 and probe 16 is transferred to a sheet of final support material 36. Support material 36 may be plain paper, or a sheet of thermoplastic material, amongst others. A
transfer roll, shown generally at 38, is electrically biased and recirculates support material 36 in the direction of arrow 40.
Transfer drum 38 rotates in synchronism with drum 10, `
i,e. at the same angular velocity. Transfer drum 38 is elec-trically e~cited by a variable voltage source. Inasmuch as , . , : . , . , ; . , , ':' ~0~3~LS~
support material 36 is secured releasably on transfer drum 38 fQr movement therewith in a recircu;Lating path, successive toner powder images may be transferred thereto in superimposed registration with one another. Probe 16 is in electrical communication with the voltage source electrically biasing transfer drum 38. In this manner, the electrical bias applied .
thereto is suitably adjusted so as to optimize the transfer process. This feature of the present invention will be des-cribed hereinafter in greater detail with reference to Figure 8.
Prior to proceeding with the remainder of the electro-photographic printing process, a brief description will be provided of the sheet feeding apparatus. Support material 36 is advanced from stack 42 disposed on tray 44. Feed roll 46 cooperating with retard roll 48 advances and separates suc-cessive uppermost sheets from stack 42. The advancing uppermost sheet moves into chute 50 which directs the sheet into the nip of xegister rolls 52. Thereafter, gripper fingers 54 mounted on transfer roll 38 secure releasably thereto support material 36 for movement therewith in a recirculating path. After a plurality of toner powder images have been transferred to support material 36 (in this case three powder images) gripper fingers 54 release support material 36. Support material 36 is then separated from transfer roll 38 by stripper bar 56 and advanced on endless belt conveyor 58 to fixing station E.
At fixing station E, a fuser permanently affixes the transferred multi-layered toner powder image to support material 36. One type of suitable fuser is described in U.S.
Patent No. 3,498,592 issued to Moser et al. in 1970. After the fusing process, support material 36 is advanced by endless belt conveyor 62 and 64 to catch tray 66 for subsequent removal ; - . .
1~6i3~5~i therefxom by the machine operator.
The last processing station in the direction of drum rotation, as indicated by arrow 14, is cleaning station E.
Although a preponderance of the toner particles are trans-ferred to support material 36, frequently residual toner par-ticles remain on photoconductive surface 12 and probe 16 after the transfer process. These residual toner particles are removed from photoconductive surface 12 as it passes through cleaning station E. Here the residual toner particles are initially brought under the influence of a cleaning corona generating aevice (not shown) adapted to neutralize the electrostatic charge remaining on photoconductive surface 12 and the residual toner particles, as well as on probe 16. The toner particles are then cleaned from photoconductive surface 12 and probe 16 by a rotatably mounted fibrous brush 68 in contact therewith. A suitable brush cleaning device is described in U.S. Patent No. 3,590,412 issued to Gerbasi in 1971.
It is believed that the foregoing description is sufficient for purposes of the present application to depict the general operation of the electrophotographic printing machine employing the apparatus of the present invention therein, Referring now to the specific subject matter of the present invention, Figure 2 depicts ~rum 10 with probe 16 mounted therein. A portion of probe 16 includes the photoconductive layer i.e. the selenium surface and aluminum substrate. The detailed structural configuration of probe 16 will be described hereinafter with reference to Figure 3. An aperture or bore is cut through the circumferential surface of drum 10 so as to 39 locate probe 16 thereon. Probe 16 may be mounted slidably on ' ~315i~ :
drum 10, i.e. by cutting a slot in drum 10 so that it may be located anywhere along the length thereo:f, or in a fixed location as is shown in Figure 2. Similarly, probe 16 may . :
be mounted movably in the printing machine so as to ~neasure the charge distribution in a lengthwise direc-tion across photoconductive surface 12, when probe 16 is spaced therefrom.
Shaft 70 of drum 10 is a tubular member permitting electrical wiring to pass through the hollow central core thereof and out therefrom to the associated electrical circuitry of probe 16. The foregoing electrical circuitry will be described hereinafter in greater detail with reference to Figure 4.
Slip ring 72 is adapted to transmit the electrical signals from probe 16 to the electrical circuitry shown in Figure 4.
The oregoing electrical circuitry processes the electrical signal from probe 16 and is in electric~l communication with the various processing stations so as to produce a control signal for regulating the respective station.
Turning now to Figure 3, there is shown a fragmentary sectional view depicting probe 16 and a porkion of drum 10.
As shown therein, a transparent, substantially conductive ~ :
sheet 73 is secured to photoconductive surface 12. A bore has been formed in photoconductive surface 12 and conductive substrate 74 to which it adheres. Bore 76 has positioned therein a tubular insulating member 78 adapted to have an electrically conductive member or wire 81 passing therethrough and secured conductively to transparent sheet 73. Transparent, electrically conductive sheet 73 is secured to photoconductive ~ .
surface 12 by an insulating cement 80. Wire 81 is secured to transparent electrically conductive sheet 73 by an electrically conductive cement 82. In this manner, the sum of the voltages ~L063~5~;
across the two dielectrics, that is, the sum o~ the voltage across photoconductive surface 12 and insulating layer or cement 80 is continually monitored. It is evident that the changing characteristics of photoconductive surface 12 are the only voltage induced changes that the sensor reads. The voltage across insulating layer 80 remains substantially constant. Thus, the electrical circuitry may subtract this constant voltage across the insulating layer to determine instantaneously the voltage characteristics of the photocon-ductive surface. The probe of the present invention is a photosensitive capacitive type device having three thin layers on an aluminum substrate. The device is ~abricated and mounted tangentially flush with the surface of the photoconductor.
The output of the device is a changing voltage measuring the state of the photoconductive surface as it passes through each processing unit adjacent thereto. The instantaneous output of the probe is analogous to the photoconductive surface as it passes through the various unit processes. The output is processed electronically to derive control signals repre~
senting the desired state of each of the foregoing process stations. Feedback is implemented to each of the processing stations thus controlling the electrical characteristic thereof in accordance with the measured characteristic of the photo conductive surface.
By way of example, transparent, electrically conductive sheet 73 is electrically conductive glass made by the Pittsburgh Plate Glass under the trademark ~ESA or may be made by the Corning Glass Company under the trademark Electro-Conductive.
Electrically conductive sheet 73 is preferably about 25 microns thick or less. Similarly, transparent bonding dielectric 80 .; .
1063~5~i is preferably also about 25 microns thick or less, Photo-conductive surface 12 preferably is about 60 microns thick.
Tubular me~ber 78 has a flange 76a adapted to properly position it in aperture or bore 76. Tubular member 78 is preferably made from a suitable insulating plastic such as Tef]on.
Turning now to Figure 4, the voltage signal from probe 16 is processed by a unity gain amplifier 84. A suitable amplifier having a high impedence can be utilized in con-junction with the probe of the present invention. I'he elec-trical output from amplifier 84 is transmitted through two successive amplifier stages ~6 and 88, and then applied to a hold circuit including a high impedence unit gain ampli~ier 90 and a capacitor 92. However, the signal is init:ially prevented from passing the hold circuit by a normally open contact 94.
The machine logic, pr0~erably, includes suitable circuitry adapted to close contact 94 at the appropriate time. Thus, a sample voltage is applied across the high impedence unity gain amplifier 90. Closing contact 94 causes two discrete conditions to occur. Initially, the probe potential is applied across high impedence amplifier 90 and secondarily capacitor 92, in the hold circuit, is charged to the probe potential.
Termination of the signal from the machine logic after the probe has passed the respective processing station permits contact 94 to return to its normally open position~ However, the probe potential is storëd in aapacitor 92 and continues to be impressed across a~plifier 90. Because of the high impedence o~ amplifier 90, a relatively constant output is maintained during the whole period until the subsequent re~losing o~ contacts 94 provides a new potential. This potential is applied to the respective processing station holding the ou~put 11~63'i56 voltage therefro~ substantially constant until the next sample signal is received. If the probe potential of the next sample differs from that of the first sample, capacitor 92 is allowed to recharge to the new potential through contact 94 and through the circuitry of amplifier 88. Capacitor 92 is recharged to this voltage. The output voltage is applied to power supply high-voltage operational amplifier 96 which holds the voltage output from the respective processing stations substantially constant until the next signal is received. At the end of the sample period, contact 94 is again opened and the whole circuit waits for the next sample. It is evident, therefore, that this type of arrangement permits the probe of the present invention to detect both increases and decreases in potential while, substantiall~ simultaneously therewith, generating a continuous control signal for regulating the potential applied to the respective processing stations. The foregoing circuitry heretofore described with regard to Figure 4 will be referred to hereinafter by the reference numeral 98.
Referring now to Figure 5, there is shown corona generating device 18 and the requisite circuitry associated therewith for regulating the charging voltage therefrom. The construction of corona generator 18 is exemplary of one practical embodiment that consists of a conductive shield 100, preferably made of aluminum or stainless steel. Shield 100 is of a generally inverted, U-shaped cross-section. A corona generator includes a coronode wire 102 functioning as a dis-charge electrode. Preferably, coronode wire 102 is made of any suitable non-corrosive material such as stainless steel, platinum or tungsten having a tungsten oxide coating thereon.
The wire has a substantially uniform exterior diameter of . . .. . . . . .
~L0633a5~
approximately 0.0035 inches~ Coronode wire 102 extends longitudinally along the length of shield 100 and is connected at either end thereof to suitable dielectric blocks which are made of insulating material and attached to opposed, spaced ends of shield 100. As hereinbefore indicated after probe 16 passes through charginy station A, it generates an electrical output signal. The electrical output signal is processed by circuit 98 which in turn produces an output signal which is processed by logic elements 10~. Logic circuitry 104, pre-ferably, includes a discriminator circuit for comparing a reference with the electrical output signal from circuit 98.
The discriminator circuit may utilize a silicon control switch adapted to turn on and effectively lock in after an electrical output singal having a magnitude greater than the reference level is obtained. The signal from the discriminator circuit changes the state of a flip-flop to develop an output signal therefrom. The output signal is a~plified by a suitable amplifier and is employed to excite an input controller. The output signal from the input controller regulates high voltage source 106. By way of example, high voltage source 106, preferably, is a constant current source adapted to excite coronode wire 102 at 400 micro-amps and about 7000 volts. In this manner coronode wire 102 is adapted to substantially uniformly charge photoconductive surface 12 to about 900 volts.
The output from coronode wire 102 is regulated to vary as a function of the electrical signal from probe 16. Thus, coronode wire 102 will produce a charge sufficient to maintain probe 16, preferably, at about 900 volts, irrespective of variations or changed conditions in the surrounding environment or aging effects of the photoconductive surface.
Referring now to Figure 6, there is shown probe 16 in electrical communication with scan lamps 26. Once again, . .
~(~63~56 the electrical circuit 98 develops an o~put signal after probe 16 is partially discharged at exposure s-tation B. This output signal is processed by logic circuitry 108. Preferably, logic circuitry 108 includes a suitable discriminator circuit for comparing a reference with the electrical outpu signal from circuit 98. The discriminator circuit may employ a silicon control switch adapted to turn and effectively lock in after an electrical output signal having a magnitude greater than that of the reference level is obtained. The signal from the discriminator circuit changes the state of a flip-flop to develop an output signal therefrom. The ou~t~put signal from the flip-flop is an error voltage corresponding to the requisite change in the lamp voltage in order to have probe 16 discharged to the desired level. The error signal is amplified by a suitable amplifier and is utilized to excite an input controller arranged to regulate a high voltage source 110 exciting scan lamps 26. In this manner, the intensity of light rays developed by lamps 26 is regulated as a function of the error signal. Preferably, lamp 26 is excited at a nominal value optimized for exposure. As an error signal is produced, the voltage applied to the lamps varies as a function thereof about the nominal value to compensate ~or deviations in the photoconductor characteristics.
With continued reference to the drawings, Figure 7 -will now be referred to in the discussion of the developer ,s~stem. After probe 16 is developed with toner particles, the electrical output signal from circuit 98 once again varies so as to indicate the present state of the photoconductive su~face.
The output signal from circuit 98 is processed by logic cir-cuitry 112. As shown in F.igure 7, each of the developer units --lg--~ ' , t ~. ` . , .
~063~5~
30, 32 and 34 include magnetic developer rolls 115, 117 and 119 which are electrically biased so as to develop only those regions of the electrostatic latent image on photoconductive surface 12 having a potential greater than that of the biasing ~' potential applied to the respective roller, Circuit ~8 ~ ' processes the electrical signal from probe 16 after probe 16 passes through exposure station D. An output signal ~rom circuit 98 is processed by logic circuitry 112, Logic circuitry 112 includes a suitable discriminator circuit for comparing a reference with the electrical ou-tput from circuit -~
98. The discriminator circuit may utilize a silicon control switch adapted to turn on and effectively lock in after an elec~rical output signal having a magnitude greater than the reference level is obtained. The signal ~rom the dlscriminator circuit changes the state of flip-~lop to develop an output signal therefrom. The output signal from the appropriate , developer unit actuates an;AND gate which, in turn, is-a~plified by a suitable amplifier and is utilized to excite an input controller. The input controller is arranged to regulate high voltage source 114 which excites developer rollers 115, 117 and 119. Logic circuitry 112 contains three channels, one channel for each of the developer units 30, 32 and 34. The machine logic provides the other signal for the AND gate so as to actuate the appropriate channel corresponding to the ~25 developer unit ~eing excited. It would be obvious to one skilled in the art that a single color electrophotographic machine would only require one channel inasmuch as only one devel-oper unit is employed. A suitable development system e~ploying a plurality of developer units is disclosed in U. S. Patent 3,854,449 issued December 17, 1~74 to Xerox Corporation.
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3~5~
It should be noted that voltage source 114 is adapted to electrically bias deveIoper rolls 115, 117 and ll9 to a - normal voltage of about 500 volts.
Turning now to Figure 8, there is shown in greater . .
detail probe 16 operatively associated with transfer drum 38 Transfer drum 38 includes an aluminum tube 116, preferably, having about a 1/4 inch thick layer of urethane 118 cast there-about, A polyurethane coating 120, preferably, of about 1 ~ ,.,mil thick is sprayed over the layer of cast urethane 118.
Preferably, transfer drum 38 has a drum hardness ranging from about 10 units to about 30 units on the Shore A.scale. The resistivity of transfer drum 38, preferably, ranges from ;~ about 108 to about 1011 ohm-centlmeters. Voltage source 122 ... . .
applies a direct current voltage to aluminum tube 116 by suitable means such as a carbon brush and brass ring assembly (not shown).
The biasing voltage may range from about 1500 to about 4500 ~ ~-volts nominally. This voltage is suitably adjusted depending upon the electrical signal generated by probe 16. Contact ;~
between photoconductive surface 12 of drum 10 and transfer drum 38 with the support material 36 interposed therebetween is, preferably, limited to a maximum of about 1 pound linear force.
A synchronous speed main drive motor rotates transfer drum 38.
This drive is coupled directly to transfer drum 38 by a flex-ible metal bellows which permits the lowering and raising of transfer drum 38. Synchronization of transfer drum 38 and drum 10 is accomplished by precision gears (not shown) coupling the main drive motor to both transfer drum 38 and drum 10~
After the transfer process, circuit 98 processes the electrical signl from probe 16. This processed electrical signal goes :, .
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- . , . , . . : :
1~63~5~
to logic circuit 124. Logic circuitry 12~, preferably, includes a suitable discriminary clrcuit for comparing a reference with the electrical output signal from circuit 98.
The discriminator circuit may employ a silicon control switch adapted to turn on and effectively lock in ~fter an electrical output signal having a magnitude greater than the rest is obtained. The signal from the discriminator circuit changes the state of a flip-flop to develop an output signal therefrom.
This output signal is amplified by a suitable amplifier and the resulting amplified signal is employed to energize an input controller arranged to regulate voltage source 122 which electrically biases transfer roll 38. Thus, depending upon the state of probe 16, transfer roll 38 has the electrical bias thereof suitably adjusted so as to substantially optimize the transfer process. This is achieved by detecting the state of probe 16. The next subsequent transfer process has the electrical bias therefor adjusted to correct any errors indicated in the previous cycle. Thus, this process is closed loop and self-adjusting.
Referring now to Figure 9, there is shown the detailed structural configuration for regulating the dispensing of toner particles to the respective developer unit. As shown therein, developer unit 30 contains toner particle storage container 126.
Similarly, developer unit 32 contains toner particle s~orage ; 25 container 128 and developer unit 34, toner particle storage container 130. Each of the foregoing toner particle s-torage containers has the respective colored toner particles therein.
The foregoing toner particle containers are all substantially the same, as such, only one thereof will be describedQ ~n this case, toner particle storage container 126 will he described ,.
- , ., ~
.
~;3~56 hereinafter in greater detail. Toner particle storage con-tainer 126 is a tubular cylinder having both ends thereof closed. The botton portion of tubular cylinder 132 has a screen 134 therein. Toner particle.s 136 are stored in tubular-member 132. Toner particle storage container 126 is rotated about its longitudinal axis. The rotation of the toner par-ticle housing about its longitudinal axis by an oscillator motor 138 dispenses a discrete amount of toner particles ; therefrom into the developer mix of developer unit 30. The electrical output signal from probe 16 passes through the commutator and out therefrom into circuitry 98. Circuitry 98 produces an electrical output signal which is processed by logic circuit 1~0. Logic circuitry 1~0 comprises a suitable discriminar~ circuit for comparing a reference with the electrical output signal from circuit 98. The discriminator cirCuit may employ a silicon control switch adapted to turn on and effectively lock in after an electrical output signal having a magnitude greater than the reference level is obtained The signal from the discriminator circuit changes the state of a flip-flop to develop an output signal therefrom. The output signal from the appropriate developer unit actuates an AND gate which, in turn, transmits a control signal to oscillator motor 138 of the corresponding toner particle container adapted to be actuated, i.e., the developer unit developing the output signal to the AND gate. This control signal also resets the flip-flop. In this manner, the electrical output signal from probe 16 is employed to determine the requisite concentration of toner particles within the developer mix. The electrical output signal of probe 16 will vary as the function of the density of toner particles , ~ !
~63~S6 deposited thereon as the resultant charge on probe 16 is dependen-t upon the charge remaining thereon after exposure as well as the charge of the toner particles. The output from probe 16 is suitabl~ processed by the heretofore described electrical circuitry to produce an output signal which excites an oscillator motor rotating one of the toner particle con-; tainers about its longitudinal axis. This dispenses the appropriate toner particles into the developer mix so as to maintain the concentration thereof substantially constant.
In this manner, the copy quality is maintained at the desired level.
In recapitulation, the apparatus of the present ;; invention is adapted to be mounted on the photoconductive member and undergo all of the various processes that the photoconductive surface undergoes. The apparatus is adapted to simulate the photoconductive member and to produce an `~ electrical signal indicative of the instantaneous condition thereof. In this manner, the electrical signal describes the state of the photoconductive surface as it passes through each processing station. This electrical signal is employed to regulate the respective processing station. In fact, this permits the complete control of each processing station throughout the electrophotographic prin-ting machine enabling the various system parameters associated with copy quality to be substantially optimized.
Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided in accordance with the present invention an apparatus for simulating the photoconductive surface and producing an elec-trical output signal indicative of the state thereof at each processing station. Each electrical signal is employed in a ,, ' -, . ~ . ~ . . : , ' ~L063~5~
closed loop control system to regulate the various processing stations throughout the printing machine~ The present inven-tion fully satisfies the objects, aims and advantages set forth hereinbefore. While the inventlon has been described in conjunction with specific embodimerlts thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordin~ly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.
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.
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,
3,438,705 issued in 1969 to King; 3,611,982 issued in 1971 to Coriale; 3,654,893 issued in 1972 to Piper et al; 3,674,353 issued in 1972 to Tractenberg and 3,749,488 issued in 1973 to Delorme all describe the advantages of utilizing an elec-trometer to measure photoconductor charge. In particular, Delorme describes the automatic control of the exposure system by using an electrometer to detect the average charge of a photoconductive film during exposure. A sheet of zinc-oxide coated paper is positioned between a transparent, electrically ~l~63~L56 conductive sheet and a conductive grounded plate. The zinc-oxide coated paper functions as a photoconductive film. An electro-static latent image is produced on that ~ilm, This sheet is then removed for developing by the standard electrostatographic printing process. In the foregoing process, after the sandwich structure heretofore described is charged, it is exposed to a light image of the original document. The sandwich structure together with a high input impedence amplifier functions as an electrometer to provide an ou~put sig~al proportional to the average charge on the zinc-oxide paper. The signal from the amplifier, in conjunction with suitable electrical circuitry, is employed to vary the exposure time. Thus, in the foregoing patent, the length of time that the light image is projected onto the zinc~oxide plate is varied unt.il the charge remaining thereon reaches a preselected level.
The above efforts, in commercial rather than lab-oratory applications of electrometers to electrostatographic printing, have, as a practical matter, been hampered by the high cost, complexity, and instability of the systems. Most of the foregoing systems have required choppers or vibrating probes and expensive high voltage amplifiers and feedback ~ .
circuits. However, these patents illustrate the highly developed nature of this art. Other patents which disclose electrometer systems are U.S. Patent Nos. 3,370,228 issued in 1968 to Winder and 3,449,668 issued in 1969 to Blackwell, ..
et al. Examples of electrometer systems are disclosed in various tests. "Electrophotography" by Shaffert and "Xerography and Related Processes" by Dessauer and Clark both f:irst published in 1965 by Focal Press, Ltd. London, England, pgs. 99 through 100, inclusive, and 213 through 216, inclusive of ~ G3~5i6 "Electrophotograph~" relate specifically to electrQmeters. However, none of the foregoing references de~cri~e a relatively simple, low-cost rugged and accurate electrometer system which,readily enables all of the various processin~ stations within an electro- ~;
photographi~c printi`ng machine to be controlled.
~ccordingly r it is a primary aspect of the present invention to i`mprove the process of electrophotographic printing by continuously controlling the various process stations employed therein with an electrometer system.
Thus, in accordance with the present teachings, an electrophotographic printing machine of the type having a plurality of processing stations is provided. The machine includes a photoconductive member which is mounted movably in the printing machine and arranged to pass through each of the processing sta-tions. Probe means is provided mounted in the photoconductive member at a preselected location along the length thereof for monitoring the instantaneous potential of the photoconductive mem-ber to provide an electrical signal indicative of the instantane~
ous charge condition of the photoconductive member as a probe ,~
2Q passes relative to each processing station. `-Other advantages of the present invnetion will ;~, become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon reference to the drawings, in which:
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~l063:~ii6 F.igure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a color electrophotographic printing machine incorporating :~ ~
the features of the present invention therein; . ~ -~igure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the photoconductive drum employed in the Figure 1 printing machine ;~ :
and having the probe of the present invention mounted thereon;
Figure 3 is a fragmentary elevational view, in section, depicting the probe employed to simulate the photo~
conductive member;
Figure 4 is a schematic circuit diagram for periodically sampling the electrical signal from.the probe; ~ : .
Figure 5 is a schematic circuit diagram for con- ~ ;
t~Folling the corona generating device; :
Figure 6 is a schematic diagram for regulating :
the intensity of light rays exposing the charged photoconductive drum; :; ; ;
Figure 7 is a schematic diagram for regulating-the slectrical bias of the development system; .. :
Figure 8, appearing on the page containing Figures 4, 5 and 5, is a schematic diagram for regulating the electrical bias ~ :
of the transfer drum; and :..... ... ~ .
. . , - . ~ ~ .
Figure 9 is a schematic diagram for controlling : .
the dispensing of toner particles into the developer mix employed in the Figure 6 development system.
While the present invention will be described in ~:
connection with a preferred embodiment, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to that embodi~
ment. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, .~ .
modifications and equivalents as may be included within the .
spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
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;3~1l56;
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF_T~E INVENTION
The present invention will be described in con-junction with a color electrophotographic printing machine.
For a general understanding of the printing machine continuous reference is had to the drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals have been used throughout to designate like elements. Initially, the overall process for producing color copies will be described. Thereafter, the detailed structural confi~uration of the various sub-assemblies employed in the printing machine will be described in conjunction with the present invention. Although the present invention is particularly well adapted for use in a color electrophoto-graphic printing machine, it should become evident from the following discussion that it is equally well-suited for other electrostatographic printing machines and is not necessarily ' limited to the particular embodiment shown herein.
As depicted in Figure l, the electrophotographic printing machine employs a photoconductive member having a drum 10 mourlted rotatably within the machine frame (not shown).
Photoconductive surface 12 is mounted on the exterior surface of drum 10. One type of suitable photoconductive material is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 3,655,377 issued to Sechak in 1972, In general, a suitable photoconductive member employs an aluminum substrate having a selenium layer adhering thereto.
A series of processing stations are disposed about the circum-ference of drum 10. Thus, as drum lO rotates in the direction of arrow 14 it passes sequentially therethrough. The present invention provides a closed loop system for controlling each of the processing stations. The operation of each processing station is substantially optimized for the specific characteristics ;3~6 of the photoconductive surface employed and the changes occurring thereto during the processing. The probe of the present invention, indicated generally by the reference numeral 16, may be mounted at a preselected location along the length of drum 10. However, one skilled in the art will realize that the probe may be mounted ~ovably on drum 10 so as to determine any variations in the electrical character istics of the drum in the lengthwise direction. Probe 16 is adapted to simulate the characteristics of the photocon-ductive surface and to produce an electrical signal indicative thereof. While probe 16 of the present invention is described hereinafter as being mounted on the photoconductive member, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention is not necessarily 90 limited, For example, probe 16 may be mounted adjacent to the photoconductive member after the processing station being controlled rather than ~h the photoconductive member. The detailed structural configuration of drum 10 and probe 16 will be described ~-hereinafter in greater detail with reference to Figures 2 and 3. A timing disc, mounted in the region of one end of the shaft of drum 10, cooperates with the machine logic to synchronize the various operations with the rotation of drum 10. In this manner, the proper sequence of events occurs at the respective processing station.
Initially, drum 10 rotates photoconductive surface 12 through charging station A. At charging station A, a corona generating device, indicated generally at 18, extends longitudinally in a transverse direction across photoconductive surfaca 12. This readily enables corona generator 18 to charge photoconductive surface 12 to a relatively high, substantially ~i3~6 uniform potential. It should be noted that probe 16 is also similarly charged. Preferably, corona generator 18 is of the type described in U.S. Patent No. 2,836,725 issued to Vyverberg in 1958. As is well known, this type of corona generator comprises a coronode wire connected to a high voltage source and supported in a conductive shield that is arranged in a closely spaced relation to photoconduct.ive surface 12. The shield generally surrounds the coronode wire except for an opening through which the charge is emitted. Preferably, the shield is arranged to attract surplus emissions from the coronod~ wire. When the coronode wire is energized, corona is generated along the surface of the wire and ions are caused to be deposited on adjacent photoconductive surface 12 and probe 16. The detailed structural configuration of corona lS generating device 18 and its relationship with probe 16 will be described hereinafter in greater detail with reference to Figure 5. Turning once again to Figure 1, after photoconduc-tive surface 12 and probe 16 are charged to a substantially uniform potential, drum 10 rotates to exposure station B.
At exposure station B, a colored filtered light image of original document 20 is projected onto the charged photoconductive surface 12 and probe 16. Exposure station B
includes a movi~g lens system, generally designated by the :
reference numeral 22, a color filter mechanism shown generally at 24, and scan lamps, shown generally at 26. Original document 20, such as a sheet of paper, book, or the like is placed face down upon a transparent viewing platen 28. As shown in Figure 1, lamps 26 are adapted to move in a timed relation with lens 22 and filter mechanism 24 to scan successive incremental areas ~ original document 20 disposed upon platen 26. It should _9_ ~L~63156 be noted that the foregoing movement is in synchronism with the rotation of drum 10 in the direction of arrow 14. This creates a flowing light image of original document 20 which is projected onto photoconductive surface 12. In operation, filter mechanism 24 interposes a selected color filter into the optical light path. This color fi:Lter operates on the light rays passing through lens 22 to record an electrostatic latent image on photoconductive surface 12 and to partially discharge probe 16. The electrostatic latent image recorded on photoconductive surface 12 corresponds to a preselected spectral region of the electromagnetic wave spectrum, here-inafter referred to as a single color electrostatic latent image, The manner in which the exposure system is conkrolled will be discussed hereinafter with reference to Figure 6.
~fter exposure, the single color electrostatic latent image recorded on photoconductive surface 12 and partially discharged probe 16 are advanced to development station C.
Development station C includes three individual units, generally indicated by the reference numerals 30, 32 and 34, respectively.
Preferably, the developer units are all of a type generally referred to in the art as "magnetic brush developer units".
A typical magnetic brush system employs a magnetizable developer mix which includes carrier granules and toner particles.
Generally, the toner particles are heat settable. In operation, the developer mix is continually brought through a directional flux field to form a brush thereof. The electrostatic latent image recorded on photoconductiwe surface 12 and partially discharged probe 16 are brought into contact with the brush of developer mix. The toner particles are attracted from the developer mix to the latent image and probe 16. Each of the , : :
~al6315~
developer units contain appropriately colored -toner particles.
For example, a green filtered electrostatic latent image is rendered visible by depositiny green absorbing magenta toner particles thereon. Similarly, blue and red latent images are developed with yellow and cyan toner particles, respectively.
As the toner particles are depleted from the system, additional toner particles are furnished thereto. Each developer unit contains a toner particle dispenser which stores a supply of colored toner particles therein. The probe of the present invention is employed to regulate the dispensing of toner particles to each of the respective developer units so as to maintain the concentration of toner particles within the developer mix substantially constant. This insures that the copy ~uality is maintained at a satisfactory level, The developmerrt system employed in the Figure 1 printing machine and its relationship with probe 16 will be discussed herein-after with reference to Figure 7. Similarly, the toner dis-pensing system and its relationship with probe 16 will be discussed hereinafter with reference to Figure 9.
Drum 10 is next rotated to transfer station D where the powder image adhering electrostatically to photoconductive surface 12 and probe 16 is transferred to a sheet of final support material 36. Support material 36 may be plain paper, or a sheet of thermoplastic material, amongst others. A
transfer roll, shown generally at 38, is electrically biased and recirculates support material 36 in the direction of arrow 40.
Transfer drum 38 rotates in synchronism with drum 10, `
i,e. at the same angular velocity. Transfer drum 38 is elec-trically e~cited by a variable voltage source. Inasmuch as , . , : . , . , ; . , , ':' ~0~3~LS~
support material 36 is secured releasably on transfer drum 38 fQr movement therewith in a recircu;Lating path, successive toner powder images may be transferred thereto in superimposed registration with one another. Probe 16 is in electrical communication with the voltage source electrically biasing transfer drum 38. In this manner, the electrical bias applied .
thereto is suitably adjusted so as to optimize the transfer process. This feature of the present invention will be des-cribed hereinafter in greater detail with reference to Figure 8.
Prior to proceeding with the remainder of the electro-photographic printing process, a brief description will be provided of the sheet feeding apparatus. Support material 36 is advanced from stack 42 disposed on tray 44. Feed roll 46 cooperating with retard roll 48 advances and separates suc-cessive uppermost sheets from stack 42. The advancing uppermost sheet moves into chute 50 which directs the sheet into the nip of xegister rolls 52. Thereafter, gripper fingers 54 mounted on transfer roll 38 secure releasably thereto support material 36 for movement therewith in a recirculating path. After a plurality of toner powder images have been transferred to support material 36 (in this case three powder images) gripper fingers 54 release support material 36. Support material 36 is then separated from transfer roll 38 by stripper bar 56 and advanced on endless belt conveyor 58 to fixing station E.
At fixing station E, a fuser permanently affixes the transferred multi-layered toner powder image to support material 36. One type of suitable fuser is described in U.S.
Patent No. 3,498,592 issued to Moser et al. in 1970. After the fusing process, support material 36 is advanced by endless belt conveyor 62 and 64 to catch tray 66 for subsequent removal ; - . .
1~6i3~5~i therefxom by the machine operator.
The last processing station in the direction of drum rotation, as indicated by arrow 14, is cleaning station E.
Although a preponderance of the toner particles are trans-ferred to support material 36, frequently residual toner par-ticles remain on photoconductive surface 12 and probe 16 after the transfer process. These residual toner particles are removed from photoconductive surface 12 as it passes through cleaning station E. Here the residual toner particles are initially brought under the influence of a cleaning corona generating aevice (not shown) adapted to neutralize the electrostatic charge remaining on photoconductive surface 12 and the residual toner particles, as well as on probe 16. The toner particles are then cleaned from photoconductive surface 12 and probe 16 by a rotatably mounted fibrous brush 68 in contact therewith. A suitable brush cleaning device is described in U.S. Patent No. 3,590,412 issued to Gerbasi in 1971.
It is believed that the foregoing description is sufficient for purposes of the present application to depict the general operation of the electrophotographic printing machine employing the apparatus of the present invention therein, Referring now to the specific subject matter of the present invention, Figure 2 depicts ~rum 10 with probe 16 mounted therein. A portion of probe 16 includes the photoconductive layer i.e. the selenium surface and aluminum substrate. The detailed structural configuration of probe 16 will be described hereinafter with reference to Figure 3. An aperture or bore is cut through the circumferential surface of drum 10 so as to 39 locate probe 16 thereon. Probe 16 may be mounted slidably on ' ~315i~ :
drum 10, i.e. by cutting a slot in drum 10 so that it may be located anywhere along the length thereo:f, or in a fixed location as is shown in Figure 2. Similarly, probe 16 may . :
be mounted movably in the printing machine so as to ~neasure the charge distribution in a lengthwise direc-tion across photoconductive surface 12, when probe 16 is spaced therefrom.
Shaft 70 of drum 10 is a tubular member permitting electrical wiring to pass through the hollow central core thereof and out therefrom to the associated electrical circuitry of probe 16. The foregoing electrical circuitry will be described hereinafter in greater detail with reference to Figure 4.
Slip ring 72 is adapted to transmit the electrical signals from probe 16 to the electrical circuitry shown in Figure 4.
The oregoing electrical circuitry processes the electrical signal from probe 16 and is in electric~l communication with the various processing stations so as to produce a control signal for regulating the respective station.
Turning now to Figure 3, there is shown a fragmentary sectional view depicting probe 16 and a porkion of drum 10.
As shown therein, a transparent, substantially conductive ~ :
sheet 73 is secured to photoconductive surface 12. A bore has been formed in photoconductive surface 12 and conductive substrate 74 to which it adheres. Bore 76 has positioned therein a tubular insulating member 78 adapted to have an electrically conductive member or wire 81 passing therethrough and secured conductively to transparent sheet 73. Transparent, electrically conductive sheet 73 is secured to photoconductive ~ .
surface 12 by an insulating cement 80. Wire 81 is secured to transparent electrically conductive sheet 73 by an electrically conductive cement 82. In this manner, the sum of the voltages ~L063~5~;
across the two dielectrics, that is, the sum o~ the voltage across photoconductive surface 12 and insulating layer or cement 80 is continually monitored. It is evident that the changing characteristics of photoconductive surface 12 are the only voltage induced changes that the sensor reads. The voltage across insulating layer 80 remains substantially constant. Thus, the electrical circuitry may subtract this constant voltage across the insulating layer to determine instantaneously the voltage characteristics of the photocon-ductive surface. The probe of the present invention is a photosensitive capacitive type device having three thin layers on an aluminum substrate. The device is ~abricated and mounted tangentially flush with the surface of the photoconductor.
The output of the device is a changing voltage measuring the state of the photoconductive surface as it passes through each processing unit adjacent thereto. The instantaneous output of the probe is analogous to the photoconductive surface as it passes through the various unit processes. The output is processed electronically to derive control signals repre~
senting the desired state of each of the foregoing process stations. Feedback is implemented to each of the processing stations thus controlling the electrical characteristic thereof in accordance with the measured characteristic of the photo conductive surface.
By way of example, transparent, electrically conductive sheet 73 is electrically conductive glass made by the Pittsburgh Plate Glass under the trademark ~ESA or may be made by the Corning Glass Company under the trademark Electro-Conductive.
Electrically conductive sheet 73 is preferably about 25 microns thick or less. Similarly, transparent bonding dielectric 80 .; .
1063~5~i is preferably also about 25 microns thick or less, Photo-conductive surface 12 preferably is about 60 microns thick.
Tubular me~ber 78 has a flange 76a adapted to properly position it in aperture or bore 76. Tubular member 78 is preferably made from a suitable insulating plastic such as Tef]on.
Turning now to Figure 4, the voltage signal from probe 16 is processed by a unity gain amplifier 84. A suitable amplifier having a high impedence can be utilized in con-junction with the probe of the present invention. I'he elec-trical output from amplifier 84 is transmitted through two successive amplifier stages ~6 and 88, and then applied to a hold circuit including a high impedence unit gain ampli~ier 90 and a capacitor 92. However, the signal is init:ially prevented from passing the hold circuit by a normally open contact 94.
The machine logic, pr0~erably, includes suitable circuitry adapted to close contact 94 at the appropriate time. Thus, a sample voltage is applied across the high impedence unity gain amplifier 90. Closing contact 94 causes two discrete conditions to occur. Initially, the probe potential is applied across high impedence amplifier 90 and secondarily capacitor 92, in the hold circuit, is charged to the probe potential.
Termination of the signal from the machine logic after the probe has passed the respective processing station permits contact 94 to return to its normally open position~ However, the probe potential is storëd in aapacitor 92 and continues to be impressed across a~plifier 90. Because of the high impedence o~ amplifier 90, a relatively constant output is maintained during the whole period until the subsequent re~losing o~ contacts 94 provides a new potential. This potential is applied to the respective processing station holding the ou~put 11~63'i56 voltage therefro~ substantially constant until the next sample signal is received. If the probe potential of the next sample differs from that of the first sample, capacitor 92 is allowed to recharge to the new potential through contact 94 and through the circuitry of amplifier 88. Capacitor 92 is recharged to this voltage. The output voltage is applied to power supply high-voltage operational amplifier 96 which holds the voltage output from the respective processing stations substantially constant until the next signal is received. At the end of the sample period, contact 94 is again opened and the whole circuit waits for the next sample. It is evident, therefore, that this type of arrangement permits the probe of the present invention to detect both increases and decreases in potential while, substantiall~ simultaneously therewith, generating a continuous control signal for regulating the potential applied to the respective processing stations. The foregoing circuitry heretofore described with regard to Figure 4 will be referred to hereinafter by the reference numeral 98.
Referring now to Figure 5, there is shown corona generating device 18 and the requisite circuitry associated therewith for regulating the charging voltage therefrom. The construction of corona generator 18 is exemplary of one practical embodiment that consists of a conductive shield 100, preferably made of aluminum or stainless steel. Shield 100 is of a generally inverted, U-shaped cross-section. A corona generator includes a coronode wire 102 functioning as a dis-charge electrode. Preferably, coronode wire 102 is made of any suitable non-corrosive material such as stainless steel, platinum or tungsten having a tungsten oxide coating thereon.
The wire has a substantially uniform exterior diameter of . . .. . . . . .
~L0633a5~
approximately 0.0035 inches~ Coronode wire 102 extends longitudinally along the length of shield 100 and is connected at either end thereof to suitable dielectric blocks which are made of insulating material and attached to opposed, spaced ends of shield 100. As hereinbefore indicated after probe 16 passes through charginy station A, it generates an electrical output signal. The electrical output signal is processed by circuit 98 which in turn produces an output signal which is processed by logic elements 10~. Logic circuitry 104, pre-ferably, includes a discriminator circuit for comparing a reference with the electrical output signal from circuit 98.
The discriminator circuit may utilize a silicon control switch adapted to turn on and effectively lock in after an electrical output singal having a magnitude greater than the reference level is obtained. The signal from the discriminator circuit changes the state of a flip-flop to develop an output signal therefrom. The output signal is a~plified by a suitable amplifier and is employed to excite an input controller. The output signal from the input controller regulates high voltage source 106. By way of example, high voltage source 106, preferably, is a constant current source adapted to excite coronode wire 102 at 400 micro-amps and about 7000 volts. In this manner coronode wire 102 is adapted to substantially uniformly charge photoconductive surface 12 to about 900 volts.
The output from coronode wire 102 is regulated to vary as a function of the electrical signal from probe 16. Thus, coronode wire 102 will produce a charge sufficient to maintain probe 16, preferably, at about 900 volts, irrespective of variations or changed conditions in the surrounding environment or aging effects of the photoconductive surface.
Referring now to Figure 6, there is shown probe 16 in electrical communication with scan lamps 26. Once again, . .
~(~63~56 the electrical circuit 98 develops an o~put signal after probe 16 is partially discharged at exposure s-tation B. This output signal is processed by logic circuitry 108. Preferably, logic circuitry 108 includes a suitable discriminator circuit for comparing a reference with the electrical outpu signal from circuit 98. The discriminator circuit may employ a silicon control switch adapted to turn and effectively lock in after an electrical output signal having a magnitude greater than that of the reference level is obtained. The signal from the discriminator circuit changes the state of a flip-flop to develop an output signal therefrom. The ou~t~put signal from the flip-flop is an error voltage corresponding to the requisite change in the lamp voltage in order to have probe 16 discharged to the desired level. The error signal is amplified by a suitable amplifier and is utilized to excite an input controller arranged to regulate a high voltage source 110 exciting scan lamps 26. In this manner, the intensity of light rays developed by lamps 26 is regulated as a function of the error signal. Preferably, lamp 26 is excited at a nominal value optimized for exposure. As an error signal is produced, the voltage applied to the lamps varies as a function thereof about the nominal value to compensate ~or deviations in the photoconductor characteristics.
With continued reference to the drawings, Figure 7 -will now be referred to in the discussion of the developer ,s~stem. After probe 16 is developed with toner particles, the electrical output signal from circuit 98 once again varies so as to indicate the present state of the photoconductive su~face.
The output signal from circuit 98 is processed by logic cir-cuitry 112. As shown in F.igure 7, each of the developer units --lg--~ ' , t ~. ` . , .
~063~5~
30, 32 and 34 include magnetic developer rolls 115, 117 and 119 which are electrically biased so as to develop only those regions of the electrostatic latent image on photoconductive surface 12 having a potential greater than that of the biasing ~' potential applied to the respective roller, Circuit ~8 ~ ' processes the electrical signal from probe 16 after probe 16 passes through exposure station D. An output signal ~rom circuit 98 is processed by logic circuitry 112, Logic circuitry 112 includes a suitable discriminator circuit for comparing a reference with the electrical ou-tput from circuit -~
98. The discriminator circuit may utilize a silicon control switch adapted to turn on and effectively lock in after an elec~rical output signal having a magnitude greater than the reference level is obtained. The signal ~rom the dlscriminator circuit changes the state of flip-~lop to develop an output signal therefrom. The output signal from the appropriate , developer unit actuates an;AND gate which, in turn, is-a~plified by a suitable amplifier and is utilized to excite an input controller. The input controller is arranged to regulate high voltage source 114 which excites developer rollers 115, 117 and 119. Logic circuitry 112 contains three channels, one channel for each of the developer units 30, 32 and 34. The machine logic provides the other signal for the AND gate so as to actuate the appropriate channel corresponding to the ~25 developer unit ~eing excited. It would be obvious to one skilled in the art that a single color electrophotographic machine would only require one channel inasmuch as only one devel-oper unit is employed. A suitable development system e~ploying a plurality of developer units is disclosed in U. S. Patent 3,854,449 issued December 17, 1~74 to Xerox Corporation.
---. -- . . -- . , . - -- . _ -- . .. .. . . _ .. _ .. . _ . _ _ . . . _. _ . _ . .. _ _ ._ . _ _ _ . --. . .
3~5~
It should be noted that voltage source 114 is adapted to electrically bias deveIoper rolls 115, 117 and ll9 to a - normal voltage of about 500 volts.
Turning now to Figure 8, there is shown in greater . .
detail probe 16 operatively associated with transfer drum 38 Transfer drum 38 includes an aluminum tube 116, preferably, having about a 1/4 inch thick layer of urethane 118 cast there-about, A polyurethane coating 120, preferably, of about 1 ~ ,.,mil thick is sprayed over the layer of cast urethane 118.
Preferably, transfer drum 38 has a drum hardness ranging from about 10 units to about 30 units on the Shore A.scale. The resistivity of transfer drum 38, preferably, ranges from ;~ about 108 to about 1011 ohm-centlmeters. Voltage source 122 ... . .
applies a direct current voltage to aluminum tube 116 by suitable means such as a carbon brush and brass ring assembly (not shown).
The biasing voltage may range from about 1500 to about 4500 ~ ~-volts nominally. This voltage is suitably adjusted depending upon the electrical signal generated by probe 16. Contact ;~
between photoconductive surface 12 of drum 10 and transfer drum 38 with the support material 36 interposed therebetween is, preferably, limited to a maximum of about 1 pound linear force.
A synchronous speed main drive motor rotates transfer drum 38.
This drive is coupled directly to transfer drum 38 by a flex-ible metal bellows which permits the lowering and raising of transfer drum 38. Synchronization of transfer drum 38 and drum 10 is accomplished by precision gears (not shown) coupling the main drive motor to both transfer drum 38 and drum 10~
After the transfer process, circuit 98 processes the electrical signl from probe 16. This processed electrical signal goes :, .
., ~ , .
" '``'`~ ', , ~ `' ~;
- . , . , . . : :
1~63~5~
to logic circuit 124. Logic circuitry 12~, preferably, includes a suitable discriminary clrcuit for comparing a reference with the electrical output signal from circuit 98.
The discriminator circuit may employ a silicon control switch adapted to turn on and effectively lock in ~fter an electrical output signal having a magnitude greater than the rest is obtained. The signal from the discriminator circuit changes the state of a flip-flop to develop an output signal therefrom.
This output signal is amplified by a suitable amplifier and the resulting amplified signal is employed to energize an input controller arranged to regulate voltage source 122 which electrically biases transfer roll 38. Thus, depending upon the state of probe 16, transfer roll 38 has the electrical bias thereof suitably adjusted so as to substantially optimize the transfer process. This is achieved by detecting the state of probe 16. The next subsequent transfer process has the electrical bias therefor adjusted to correct any errors indicated in the previous cycle. Thus, this process is closed loop and self-adjusting.
Referring now to Figure 9, there is shown the detailed structural configuration for regulating the dispensing of toner particles to the respective developer unit. As shown therein, developer unit 30 contains toner particle storage container 126.
Similarly, developer unit 32 contains toner particle s~orage ; 25 container 128 and developer unit 34, toner particle storage container 130. Each of the foregoing toner particle s-torage containers has the respective colored toner particles therein.
The foregoing toner particle containers are all substantially the same, as such, only one thereof will be describedQ ~n this case, toner particle storage container 126 will he described ,.
- , ., ~
.
~;3~56 hereinafter in greater detail. Toner particle storage con-tainer 126 is a tubular cylinder having both ends thereof closed. The botton portion of tubular cylinder 132 has a screen 134 therein. Toner particle.s 136 are stored in tubular-member 132. Toner particle storage container 126 is rotated about its longitudinal axis. The rotation of the toner par-ticle housing about its longitudinal axis by an oscillator motor 138 dispenses a discrete amount of toner particles ; therefrom into the developer mix of developer unit 30. The electrical output signal from probe 16 passes through the commutator and out therefrom into circuitry 98. Circuitry 98 produces an electrical output signal which is processed by logic circuit 1~0. Logic circuitry 1~0 comprises a suitable discriminar~ circuit for comparing a reference with the electrical output signal from circuit 98. The discriminator cirCuit may employ a silicon control switch adapted to turn on and effectively lock in after an electrical output signal having a magnitude greater than the reference level is obtained The signal from the discriminator circuit changes the state of a flip-flop to develop an output signal therefrom. The output signal from the appropriate developer unit actuates an AND gate which, in turn, transmits a control signal to oscillator motor 138 of the corresponding toner particle container adapted to be actuated, i.e., the developer unit developing the output signal to the AND gate. This control signal also resets the flip-flop. In this manner, the electrical output signal from probe 16 is employed to determine the requisite concentration of toner particles within the developer mix. The electrical output signal of probe 16 will vary as the function of the density of toner particles , ~ !
~63~S6 deposited thereon as the resultant charge on probe 16 is dependen-t upon the charge remaining thereon after exposure as well as the charge of the toner particles. The output from probe 16 is suitabl~ processed by the heretofore described electrical circuitry to produce an output signal which excites an oscillator motor rotating one of the toner particle con-; tainers about its longitudinal axis. This dispenses the appropriate toner particles into the developer mix so as to maintain the concentration thereof substantially constant.
In this manner, the copy quality is maintained at the desired level.
In recapitulation, the apparatus of the present ;; invention is adapted to be mounted on the photoconductive member and undergo all of the various processes that the photoconductive surface undergoes. The apparatus is adapted to simulate the photoconductive member and to produce an `~ electrical signal indicative of the instantaneous condition thereof. In this manner, the electrical signal describes the state of the photoconductive surface as it passes through each processing station. This electrical signal is employed to regulate the respective processing station. In fact, this permits the complete control of each processing station throughout the electrophotographic prin-ting machine enabling the various system parameters associated with copy quality to be substantially optimized.
Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided in accordance with the present invention an apparatus for simulating the photoconductive surface and producing an elec-trical output signal indicative of the state thereof at each processing station. Each electrical signal is employed in a ,, ' -, . ~ . ~ . . : , ' ~L063~5~
closed loop control system to regulate the various processing stations throughout the printing machine~ The present inven-tion fully satisfies the objects, aims and advantages set forth hereinbefore. While the inventlon has been described in conjunction with specific embodimerlts thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordin~ly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.
' .
.,, , ~
'~
.
' :
, :
'` ~
,
Claims (14)
property or privilege, is claimed are defined as follows:
1. An electrophotographic printing machine of the type having a plurality of processing stations, including:
a photoconductive member mounted movably in the printing machine and arranged to pass through each of the processing stations; and probe means, mounted in said phtotconductive member at a preselected location along the length thereof, for monitoring the instantaneous potential of said photoconductive member to provide an electrical signal indicative of the instantaneous charge condition of said photoconductive member as said probe means passes relative each processing station.
a photoconductive member mounted movably in the printing machine and arranged to pass through each of the processing stations; and probe means, mounted in said phtotconductive member at a preselected location along the length thereof, for monitoring the instantaneous potential of said photoconductive member to provide an electrical signal indicative of the instantaneous charge condition of said photoconductive member as said probe means passes relative each processing station.
2. A printing machine as recited in Claim 1, further including means, in electrical communication with said probe means and each of the processing stations, for generating an electrical control signal arranged to regulate the electrical output from each of the processing stations.
3. A printing machine as recited in Claim 2, wherein said electrical signal generating means includes:
means for periodically sampling the electrical signal from said probe means; and circuit means for analyzing the periodically sampled electrical signal and forming a continuous electrical output signal indicative thereof.
means for periodically sampling the electrical signal from said probe means; and circuit means for analyzing the periodically sampled electrical signal and forming a continuous electrical output signal indicative thereof.
4. A printing machine as recited in Claim 2, further including:
means for producing a reference signal indicative of the desired instantaneous charge condition of said photoconductive member;
means for comparing the reference signal with the electrical signal to form an error signal corresponding to the deviation therebetween; and means, responsive to the error signal, for controlling each one of the processing stations.
means for producing a reference signal indicative of the desired instantaneous charge condition of said photoconductive member;
means for comparing the reference signal with the electrical signal to form an error signal corresponding to the deviation therebetween; and means, responsive to the error signal, for controlling each one of the processing stations.
5. A printing machine as recited in Claim 1, wherein the processing stations include:
means for charging the surface of said photoconductive member and said probe means to a substantially uniform level;
means for producing a reference signal indicative of the desired charge level on said photoconductive member;
means for comparing the reference signal with the electrical signal from said probe means to form an error signal; and means, responsive to the error signal, for controlling said charging means.
means for charging the surface of said photoconductive member and said probe means to a substantially uniform level;
means for producing a reference signal indicative of the desired charge level on said photoconductive member;
means for comparing the reference signal with the electrical signal from said probe means to form an error signal; and means, responsive to the error signal, for controlling said charging means.
6. A printing machine as recited in claim 5, wherein said charging means includes:
an elongated shield defining an open-ended chamber; and at least one coronode wire mounted in said shield and extending substantially in a longitudinal direction along the length of said shield.
an elongated shield defining an open-ended chamber; and at least one coronode wire mounted in said shield and extending substantially in a longitudinal direction along the length of said shield.
7. A printing machine as recited in Claim 1, wherein the processing stations include:
means for charging said photoconductive member and said probe means to a substantially uniform level;
means for exposing said charged photoconductive member and said probe means to a light image recording an electrostatic latent image on said photoconductive member, and partially discharging said probe means;
means for producing a reference signal indicative of the desired charge level on said photoconductive member after exposure to the light image;
means for comparing the reference signal with the electrical signal from said probe means to form an error signal; and means, responsive to the error signal, for controlling said exposing means.
means for charging said photoconductive member and said probe means to a substantially uniform level;
means for exposing said charged photoconductive member and said probe means to a light image recording an electrostatic latent image on said photoconductive member, and partially discharging said probe means;
means for producing a reference signal indicative of the desired charge level on said photoconductive member after exposure to the light image;
means for comparing the reference signal with the electrical signal from said probe means to form an error signal; and means, responsive to the error signal, for controlling said exposing means.
8. A printing machine as recited in Claim 7, wherein said exposing means includes:
a light source arranged to illuminate an original document disposed in the printing machine;
means for energizing said light source; and lens means for receiving the light rays transmitted from the original document to form a light image thereof.
a light source arranged to illuminate an original document disposed in the printing machine;
means for energizing said light source; and lens means for receiving the light rays transmitted from the original document to form a light image thereof.
9. A printing machine as recited in Claim 1, wherein the processing stations include:
means for charging said photoconductive member and said probe means to a substantially uniform level;
means for exposing said charged photoconductive member to a light image recording an electrostatic latent image thereon and partially discharging said probe means;
means for developing the electrostatic latent image and said partially discharged probe means with toner particles;
means for electrically biasing said developing means; and means, in electrical communication with said probe means, arranged to control said electrical biasing means.
means for charging said photoconductive member and said probe means to a substantially uniform level;
means for exposing said charged photoconductive member to a light image recording an electrostatic latent image thereon and partially discharging said probe means;
means for developing the electrostatic latent image and said partially discharged probe means with toner particles;
means for electrically biasing said developing means; and means, in electrical communication with said probe means, arranged to control said electrical biasing means.
10. A printing machine as recited in Claim 9, wherein said developing means includes:
a developer housing defining a chamber for storing toner particles therein; and magnetic field producing means supported on said developer housing and operatively positioned closely adjacent to said photoconductive member, said magnetic field producing means forming a brush-like array of toner particles in brushing contact with the electrostatic latent image recorded on said photoconductive member and said partially discharged probe means.
a developer housing defining a chamber for storing toner particles therein; and magnetic field producing means supported on said developer housing and operatively positioned closely adjacent to said photoconductive member, said magnetic field producing means forming a brush-like array of toner particles in brushing contact with the electrostatic latent image recorded on said photoconductive member and said partially discharged probe means.
11. A printing machine as recited in Claim 1, wherein the processing stations include:
means for charging said photoconductive member and said probe means to a substantially uniform level;
means for exposing said charged photoconductive member and said probe means to a light image recording an electrostatic latent image on said photoconductive member and partially discharging said probe means;
means for developing the electrostatic latent image recorded on said photoconductive member and said partially discharged probe means with toner particles;
means for transferring the toner powder image adhering to the electrostatic latent image recorded on said photoconductive member and the toner powder adhering to said probe means to a sheet of support material;
means for electrically biasing said transferring means; and means, in electrical communication with said probe means, for generating an electrical signal arranged to control said electrical biasing means.
means for charging said photoconductive member and said probe means to a substantially uniform level;
means for exposing said charged photoconductive member and said probe means to a light image recording an electrostatic latent image on said photoconductive member and partially discharging said probe means;
means for developing the electrostatic latent image recorded on said photoconductive member and said partially discharged probe means with toner particles;
means for transferring the toner powder image adhering to the electrostatic latent image recorded on said photoconductive member and the toner powder adhering to said probe means to a sheet of support material;
means for electrically biasing said transferring means; and means, in electrical communication with said probe means, for generating an electrical signal arranged to control said electrical biasing means.
12, A printing machine as recited in claim 11, wherein said transfer means includes:
a cylindrical core of electrically conductive material;
a first layer of resilient material entrained about said cylindrical core and being substantially in contact therewith; and a second layer of resilient material entrained about said first layer of resilient material and being sub-stantially in contact therewith.
a cylindrical core of electrically conductive material;
a first layer of resilient material entrained about said cylindrical core and being substantially in contact therewith; and a second layer of resilient material entrained about said first layer of resilient material and being sub-stantially in contact therewith.
13. A printing machine as recited in Claim 1, wherein the processing stations include:
means for charging said photoconductive member and said probe means to a substantially uniform level;
means for exposing said photoconductive member and said probe means to a light image recording an electro-static latent image on said photoconductive member and partially discharging said probe means;
a developer housing defining a chamber for storing a developer mix comprising carrier granules and toner particles;
means for depositing toner particles on said probe means and the electrostatic latent image;
means for dispensing toner particles to said developer housing; and means, in electrical communication with said probe means and said toner dispensing means, for regulating the con-centration of toner particles in the developer mix,
means for charging said photoconductive member and said probe means to a substantially uniform level;
means for exposing said photoconductive member and said probe means to a light image recording an electro-static latent image on said photoconductive member and partially discharging said probe means;
a developer housing defining a chamber for storing a developer mix comprising carrier granules and toner particles;
means for depositing toner particles on said probe means and the electrostatic latent image;
means for dispensing toner particles to said developer housing; and means, in electrical communication with said probe means and said toner dispensing means, for regulating the con-centration of toner particles in the developer mix,
14. A printing machine as recited in Claim 13, wherein said regulating means includes:
means for producing a reference signal indicative of the desired toner particle concentration in the developer mix;
and means for comparing the electrical signal from said simulating means with toner particles deposited thereon to the reference signal forming an error signal indicative of the deviation therebetween.
means for producing a reference signal indicative of the desired toner particle concentration in the developer mix;
and means for comparing the electrical signal from said simulating means with toner particles deposited thereon to the reference signal forming an error signal indicative of the deviation therebetween.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US452023A US3891316A (en) | 1974-03-18 | 1974-03-18 | Multi-process control system for an electrophotographic printing machine |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1063156A true CA1063156A (en) | 1979-09-25 |
Family
ID=23794702
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA218,985A Expired CA1063156A (en) | 1974-03-18 | 1975-01-29 | Multi-process control system for an electrophotographic printing machine |
Country Status (9)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US3891316A (en) |
| JP (1) | JPS592897B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1063156A (en) |
| DE (1) | DE2511589A1 (en) |
| FR (1) | FR2265121B1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB1496925A (en) |
| IT (1) | IT1034291B (en) |
| NL (1) | NL7501860A (en) |
| SE (1) | SE397142B (en) |
Families Citing this family (14)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4129375A (en) * | 1974-05-10 | 1978-12-12 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Method and apparatus for electrically biasing developing electrode of electrophotography device |
| US4050806A (en) * | 1974-05-10 | 1977-09-27 | Ricoh Co., Ltd. | Method and apparatus for electrically biasing developing electrode of electrophotographic device |
| US4021112A (en) * | 1975-06-23 | 1977-05-03 | Xerox Corporation | Photoreceptor dark current leakage detecting apparatus for xerographic machines |
| JPS53106129A (en) * | 1977-02-28 | 1978-09-14 | Canon Inc | Recording electrostatic device |
| JPS55137546A (en) * | 1979-04-16 | 1980-10-27 | Canon Inc | Color image forming apparatus |
| US4326796A (en) * | 1979-12-13 | 1982-04-27 | International Business Machines Corporation | Apparatus and method for measuring and maintaining copy quality in an electrophotographic copier |
| JPS57102673A (en) * | 1980-12-19 | 1982-06-25 | Canon Inc | Color copying machine |
| JPS5886563A (en) * | 1981-11-18 | 1983-05-24 | Fuji Xerox Co Ltd | Electrophotographic copying machine |
| US4708459A (en) * | 1986-03-11 | 1987-11-24 | Eastman Kodak Company | Electrophotographic color proofing apparatus and method |
| JPH06266138A (en) * | 1993-03-15 | 1994-09-22 | Canon Inc | Electrophotographic device |
| JP2853763B2 (en) * | 1996-08-29 | 1999-02-03 | 日本電気株式会社 | Amplifier circuit |
| CA2334993A1 (en) * | 1998-07-02 | 2000-01-13 | Printer Ribbon Inkers Ltd. | Method and apparatus for testing toner cartridges |
| US7239148B2 (en) * | 2003-12-04 | 2007-07-03 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Method and device for measuring surface potential distribution |
| US7665819B2 (en) * | 2005-04-21 | 2010-02-23 | Tonerhead, Inc. | Method and apparatus for a printer cartridge tester |
Family Cites Families (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US2956487A (en) * | 1955-03-23 | 1960-10-18 | Rca Corp | Electrostatic printing |
| US3654893A (en) * | 1970-05-01 | 1972-04-11 | Eastman Kodak Co | Automatic bias control for electrostatic development |
| NL7210356A (en) * | 1971-08-06 | 1973-02-08 | ||
| US3788739A (en) * | 1972-06-21 | 1974-01-29 | Xerox Corp | Image compensation method and apparatus for electrophotographic devices |
| US3778146A (en) * | 1972-10-02 | 1973-12-11 | Xerox Corp | Illuminating apparatus |
-
1974
- 1974-03-18 US US452023A patent/US3891316A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1975
- 1975-01-29 CA CA218,985A patent/CA1063156A/en not_active Expired
- 1975-02-17 NL NL7501860A patent/NL7501860A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1975-03-03 SE SE7502357A patent/SE397142B/en unknown
- 1975-03-11 JP JP50029447A patent/JPS592897B2/en not_active Expired
- 1975-03-13 FR FR7507912A patent/FR2265121B1/fr not_active Expired
- 1975-03-14 IT IT21282/75A patent/IT1034291B/en active
- 1975-03-17 DE DE19752511589 patent/DE2511589A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1975-03-17 GB GB11004/75A patent/GB1496925A/en not_active Expired
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| NL7501860A (en) | 1975-05-30 |
| FR2265121A1 (en) | 1975-10-17 |
| GB1496925A (en) | 1978-01-05 |
| FR2265121B1 (en) | 1980-05-23 |
| DE2511589A1 (en) | 1975-09-25 |
| SE7502357L (en) | 1975-09-19 |
| US3891316A (en) | 1975-06-24 |
| JPS592897B2 (en) | 1984-01-21 |
| SE397142B (en) | 1977-10-17 |
| JPS50129041A (en) | 1975-10-11 |
| IT1034291B (en) | 1979-09-10 |
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