Image side tensioner for xerographic belt

A tensioning device for minimizing tension variations in a moveable endless belt having a desired tension setting and configured to be mounted for rotation about rollers mounted to a frame, the endless belt having an image side and a non-image side, the tensioning device comprising:

• a belt tension member for mounting in relation to the movement of the moveable endless belt and being movable into contact with the moveable endless belt;
• and
• a force exerting mechanism urging the moveable member into contact with the image side of the moveable endless belt thereby tensioning the moveable endless belt.

A tensioning device for minimizing tension variations in a moveable endless belt configured to be mounted for rotation about rollers mounted to a frame, the tensioning device comprising:

• a belt tension member for movement into contact with the moveable endless belt;
• a force exerting mechanism coupled to a frame, and
• first and second tension support rolls, the force exerting mechanism urging the belt tension member into contact with the moveable endless belt, the first and second tension support rolls and the belt tension member forming an open loop in the path of the endless belt.