Patent ID: 6754457
Filing Date: 2004-06-22
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
In a fusing assembly for an electrostatographic reproduction apparatus, in which an image-wise pattern of pigmented marking particles is fixed to a receiver member transported along a travel path in operative relation with said fusing assembly, said fusing assembly including a pre-heater for facilitating efficient fusing assembly operation and gloss control, said pre-heater comprising:a housing defining an internal chamber open adjacent to said receiver member travel path; a heating element within said housing internal chamber; an airflow system including a blower, a distribution plenum in flow communication between said blower and said heating element, an impingement member in said chamber opening adjacent to said travel path, an impingement plenum in flow communication between said heating element and said impingement member, and a return conduit in flow communication between said opening and said blower, whereby air from said blower is delivered through and heated by said heating element, impinges upon a receiver member bearing a marking particle image in the opening and is returned to said blower while being substantially prevented from escaping from said chamber.