Patent ID: 7386249
Filing Date: 2008-06-10
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
1. A roller capable for use as a developer roller in a printer comprising: a roller having a surface, a length and two end portions, wherein said roller provides a first surface flexibility (SF 1 ) when said roller rotates in one direction and a second surface flexibility (SF 2 ) when said roller rotates in a second direction wherein SF 1 and SF 2 have different values, and wherein said roller includes an inner portion, an outer portion and ribs extending from the inner portion to the outer portion wherein said inner portion, outer portion and ribs independently have a thickness in the range of about 0.5-5.0 mm, wherein said ribs are capable of bending when said roller rotates in one direction and compression when said roller rotates in a second direction and wherein said roller comprises polyepichlorohydrin or a polyurethane and said ribs extend from the two ends of said roller a distance of up to about 10 mm and said roller includes portions without said ribs along the length of said roller.