Externally heated low-power roll fuser

Abstract

A roll fuser structure for a xerographic reproducing apparatus. The contemplated roll fuser comprises a fuser roll member having an outer layer of silicone rubber which is externally heated by a source of radiant thermal energy adapted to raise the temperature thereof to approximately 300.degree. F. The energy source is positioned adjacent the inlet of a nip formed between the fuser roll and a backup roll such that part of the energy therefrom impinges on the fuser roll surface and part of the energy impinges on the toner images carried by the support member prior to the images being contacted by the heated fuser roll member. By so positioning the energy source, it is possible to reduce the operating temperature of the fuser roll to 300.degree. F. and still satisfactorily fuse high density or thick images by virtue of pre-heating them by the portion of the energy which impinges on the toner images.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.