W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.

Beth P Powell

Alex R Hobson

Robert L Sassa

F Michael McCollam

The present invention provides an improved cleaning material for critical imaging surfaces for use in a variety of printers, including laser printer, plain paper copiers and facsimile machines, etc. Moreover, the present invention utilizes the unique properties of expanded PTFE and sintered PTFE as the cleaning medium.

Cleaning assembly for critical image surfaces in printer devices and

The present invention is an improved device for delivering a release agent to fuser rollers employed in various printer devices, such as laser printers, fax machines, copier machines, etc. The release agent delivery device of the present invention comprises an elongated web of microporous membrane (e.g., expanded polytetrafluoroethylene) bonded to a substrate, filled with release agent, and mounted between two shafts. The web spans across the fuser roller so that the roller is simultaneously cleaned and oiled during normal operation. When the portion of the web in contact with the fuser roller becomes contaminated or expends its release agent supply, the web can be advanced to place a fresh surface in contact with the fuser roller.

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Elkton, MD, United States of America

Beth P Powell