Patents Examined by G T E
  • Patent number: 7079798
    Abstract: A multi color image forming apparatus includes a plurality of stations arranged side by side for forming unique mono-color toner images using mono-color developers each having a different mono-color toner. Each of the plurality of stations includes an image bearing member for bearing a latent image, and a developing device for visualizing the latent image into the mono-color toner image. A conveying device is provided to convey a transfer medium. A transfer device is provided to transfer the mono-color toner images from the image bearing members to the transfer medium. Charge ability of prescribed mono-color toner included in the mono-color developer used in the upstream station is smaller than that used in the downstream station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazumi Suzuki, Ichiro Kadota, Hisashi Shoji, Atsushi Shinozaki, Chikara Imai