ENDLESS BELT FOR USE IN DIGITAL IMAGING SYSTEMS AND METHOD OF MAKING

摘要

An endless belt (10) for use in digital imaging systems is provided having uniform edge to edge flatness, and precise circumferential and edge to edge thickness. The layers comprising the belt may be tailored as desired for use in either latent image formation, image transfer or sheet transport operations. In one embodiment, the belt includes an elastomeric base layer (40), an intermediate polymer ply (42) over the base layer, and an outer elastomeric layer (44). Alternatively, the belt includes an elastomeric base layer (40) and an outer polymer layer (45). The belt (10) may further include reinforcing layers which may comprise a woven or non-woven fabric layer (48) and/or an elastomer-impregnated spun cord layer (46). The belt is preferably manufactured by building the layers on a workpiece and then curing the layers.