Apparatus and method for resealing toner cartridges

摘要

Resealing apparatus for closing the toner-dispensing slot of a toner cartridge, preparatory to refilling that cartridge with toner. The apparatus includes a pair of work stations, each including a fixture for receiving an empty toner cartridge and a guide for supporting a seal insertion tool into predetermined juxtaposition with that cartridge. A motorized actuator extends each seal insertion tool into juxtaposition with the toner cartridge, and retracts that tool from the cartridge after sealing is completed. Powered clamps engage the toner cartridge to assure positive contact between the cartridge and the seal. A single heater power supply is selectively connected to the seal insertion tools of each work station. A programmed logic controller performs the sequence of resealing operations for each work station, once initiated by an operator, so that the operator may then prepare the other work station for a resealing operation. Also disclosed is a tool for temporary insertion within a toner cartridge being resealed, to keep that cartridge from deforming during resealing.