Patent ID: 6253046
Filing Date: 2001-06-26
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
A backup roll release mechanism for an imaging apparatus fuser having a fuser roll and a backup roll, said release mechanism comprising:first and second roll journals for rotatably holding said backup roll therebetween;a first roll positioner connected to said first roll journal;a second roll positioner connected to said second roll journal;a first variable force applicator connected to said first roll positioner;a second variable force applicator connected to said second roll positioner;each said first and second variable force applicators having a plurality of force application configurations cooperatively adapted and arranged for establishing positions for said backup roll relative to said fuser roll, said positions including an open position in which said backup roll is spaced from said fuser roll and a plurality of nipped positions of different nip loads; andan adjuster connected to said first variable force applicator and to said second variable force applicator, said adjuster being adapted and arranged for placing said first variable force applicator and said second variable force applicator in selected force application configurations.