William K Goss

US Patent:

20100300604, Dec 2, 2010

Filed:

May 29, 2009

Appl. No.:

12/474319

Inventors:

William Krebs Goss - Missouri City TX, US
Chris Tice - Candler NC, US
Jeff Jennings - Hendersonville NC, US

International Classification:

B32B 37/00
B31F 1/07

US Classification:

156154, 156209

Abstract:

A three-layer image transfer belt having an uppermost surface that has been altered to reduce surface gloss and induce a desirable surface topography is presented. The image transfer belt can comprise a three layer laminate. In one embodiment, the base layer can be a polyimide, the intermediate layer can be a rubber/elastomer and the surface layer can be a fluoropolymer. In another embodiment, the base layer can also comprise a fabric for belt reinforcement. The desired surface topography improves toner release and print quality. The reduction of surface gloss of the image transfer belt is achieved by creating a linear pattern oriented in the machine direction or a grid-like pattern into the uppermost surface of the image transfer belt. The reduction of surface gloss of the image transfer belt is achieved without a significant change in surface rougheness.