Roger E Welch

US Patent:

63117452, Nov 6, 2001

Filed:

Jun 5, 2000

Appl. No.:

9/587391

Inventors:

Roger D. Welch - Fairport NY
Roman S. Kulik - Penfield NY

Assignee:

Xerox Corporation - Stamford CT

International Classification:

B65B 104

US Classification:

141346

Abstract:

A dispensing system for containing and dispensing powders, such as toner and developers, includes a dispensing container having an outlet and a chamber that contains powder. A fluidizing system introduces a gas into the chamber to increase the fluidity of the powder. The dispensing system includes a valve having a first portion attached to the dispensing container, and a second portion that attaches to a receiving container that receives the powder dispensed from the dispensing container. The valve is operable to dispense the powder from the dispensing container to the receiving container. The fluidizing system includes a porous member in the chamber and a gas source that flows a gas into the chamber through the porous member to fluidize the powder and enhance dispensing of the powder.