摘要 |
<p>Abstract and method for electrostatically separating a first medium such as a magnetic tape (13) from a second medium such as paper (15) following transfer of images from the tape (13) to the paper (15). The apparatus includes a movable member or platen (43) disposed for moving the tape (13) into contact with and away from the paper (15), and a voltage source (119) coupled across predetermined portions of the tape and platen. The method includes the step of creating an electrostatic force between the tape (13) and platen (43) sufficient to overcome adherence of the tape (13) to the paper (15) during contact of the tape (13) with the paper (15), facilitating separation of the tape (13) from the paper (15) as the platen (43) is moved away from the paper (15) following image transfer. Separation is accomplished substantially independent of tape tension. This permits operation with significantly less tape tension which, in turn, preserves tape integrity and provides for reduced tape breakage and misregistration of tape with paper, more effective cleaning of the tape, and less wear of the tape and the tape cleaning devices.</p> |