Magnetic toner imaging-multiplexing apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates to magnetic toner imaging-multiplexing techniques and apparatus wherein the number of required voltage drivers is substantially reduced. The apparatus includes a multi-pole magnet assembly surrounded by a shell-like member operatively coupled to a drive motor for creating relative motion between said magnet assembly and said shell-like member. A multiplicity of helical, highly permeable electrodes are circularly disposed around the periphery of the shell member with electrical connections to external voltage drivers through a slip-ring assembly. Magnetic imaging toner is circulated across the toner electrodes as a result of the relative motion between the shell and the magnet assembly. Field concentrating apparatus is disposed within the shell adjacent to a dielectric drum on which the intelligible image is to be produced. As the toner is circulated across the shell, a toner tree or brushlike pile of toner is formed at points where the toner electrodes intersect the magnetic field from the concentrating apparatus and the dielectric drum. Dots of toner are deposited on the drum at these points when the electrodes are driven to a suitable electrical potential. A modification of this apparatus incorporates a plurality of magnetic wire pins arranged parallel to the axis of the shell in diagonal arrays there across. Field concentrating members extend parallel to the shell axis and cause toner trees or brushes to be generated at the line of pins normal to the magnet pole faces as the magnet assembly is moved relative to the shell.