Toner application and circulation apparatus

Abstract

A toner solution circulation apparatus controls the application, concentration, and circulation by pumping of toner solution for an electrostatic imaging system by using a vacuum to draw toner solution, which is selectively mixed with concentrated toner solution and clear isopar, from a mixer manifold, and by using the rotating action of an applicator roll to pump, circulate, and mix toner solution, pigment, and isopar. A float and pivot block assembly maintains the correct isopar solution level in the chamber. A tube pump apparatus, having two tubes, one inside the other with sliding seals between the tubes, each tube having a ball type check (foot) valve at its end is submerged in concentrated toner solution in a supply container or bottle, to add pigment to the toner soltuion. The cycle time of the pump stroke is monitored by a Hall effect sensor.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.