Apparatus and method for removal of back-plated developer

摘要

An apparatus and method for removing back-plated developer from a development device in a liquid electrographic imaging system make use of a blade disposed to remove back-plated developer from the development device, and a brush disposed to remove the back-plated developer from the blade and redisperse the back-plated developer into a developer liquid supply. The brush includes a shaft and bristles disposed about the shaft. The shaft preferably is rotated to drive the bristles against the blade. In this manner, the bristles remove the back-plated developer from the blade and redisperse the back-plated developer within the developer liquid supply. The bristles can be formed from a substantially resilient material to generate a flicking action upon deflection and recovery. This flicking action facilitates redispersion of the back-plated developer into the developer liquid supply. The brush preferably is submerged in the developer liquid residing in the developer liquid supply, thereby avoiding significant drying of the developer liquid on the brush and significant splattering of the developer liquid by the brush. Submersion also enables the bristles to provide a churning action that aids in redispersion. The apparatus and method are capable of providing enhanced cleaning efficiency, as well as effective redispersion of back-plated developer for recovery and reuse. A bias potential can be applied to the brush to further aid in effective removal of back-plated developer.