Liquid Electrostatic Ink Developer Roller Coating

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Solution Overview

Problem

Liquid electrostatic printing processes face challenges with the development of Old Photoconductor Syndrome (OPS) and the longevity of developer rollers and photo imaging plates, which affect the efficiency and lifespan of these components.

Innovation Solution

A developer roller with a surface coating comprising a polyurethane resin formed from a polyol, a hydroxyl-terminated polysiloxane, and a polyisocyanate is used, enhancing the scratch resistance and slowing the development of OPS.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional developer rollers and photo imaging plates are used in liquid electrostatic printing, then the printing process can proceed, but the components suffer from Old Photoconductor Syndrome and reduced lifespan

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent lifespanVSAvoidOld Photoconductor Syndrome
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies composite materials by formulating a developer roller surface coating that combines multiple polymers and additives to create a multi-layered protective structure. This composite coating resists OPS and extends the lifespan of both the developer roller and photo imaging plate by providing enhanced chemical and mechanical stability during the printing process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Strength

If conventional surface coatings are used on developer rollers, then manufacturing is simpler, but scratch resistance is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescratch resistanceVSAvoidcoating formulation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by carefully adjusting the chemical composition ratios, molecular weights, and cross-linking densities of the polymers in the surface coating. These parameter modifications optimize the coating's scratch resistance and durability while maintaining manufacturability through established coating processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11181849B2Liquid electrostatic ink developer assembly
Publication Date: 2021.11.23 HP INDIGO BV
  • US11181849B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Described herein is a liquid electrostatic ink developer assembly comprising a developer roller having a surface coating, the surface coating comprising a polyurethane resin formed from a polyol; a hydroxyl-terminated polysiloxane; and a polyisocyanate. Also, described herein is a liquid electrostatic printing apparatus comprising the liquid electrostatic ink developer assembly.