Abstract: The imaging debris produced by imaging a media with a higher power laser is prevented from accumulating on an optical imaging element by establishing a substantially non-turbulent fluid flow across the optical element. The non-turbulent flow forms a barrier between the optical element and the imaging environment such that debris is not able to reach a surface of the optical element during an imaging operation.

Abstract: A roller incorporating a relief surface is used for handling the emulsion coated surface of laser sensitive media in a laser imaging system. In some embodiments, the roller incorporating the relief surface is used to mount and demount media from a media support surface of the laser imaging system. The relief surface may be an integrally formed component of the roller. Alternatively, the relief surface may be provided by a braided sheath that is removably couplable to the roller. The relief surface minimizes debris contamination of the roller during the process of unloading an imaged media from the media support surface. This in turn minimizes contamination of subsequent pieces of media that are loaded by the roller onto the media support surface in order to be imaged.

Abstract: The imaging debris produced by imaging a media with a higher power laser is prevented from accumulating on an optical imaging element by establishing a substantially non-turbulent fluid flow across the optical element. The non-turbulent flow forms a barrier between the optical element and the imaging environment such that debris is not able to reach a surface of the optical element during an imaging operation.

Abstract: A roller used in handling a media sheet or plate has a non smooth surface. In some embodiments the surface comprises a braided sheath. The sheath may comprise a material such as polyethylene.