Patent ID: 8107872
Filing Date: 2012-01-31
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
1. An image forming apparatus comprising: a charging unit configured to charge a surface of an image bearing member utilizing discharge generated by applying a voltage containing an alternating current component to a charging member disposed in contact with or close to the image bearing member, so that a latent electrostatic image is formed on the image bearing member, a developing unit configured to develop the latent electrostatic image formed on the image bearing member using a toner, a cleaning unit configured to clean the surface of the image bearing member using a blade, a protecting agent applying unit configured to rub and scrape a protecting agent by a brush roller and apply the protecting agent to the surface of the image bearing member, and a protecting agent charging member configured to charge the protecting agent, the protecting agent charging member being disposed between the protecting agent applying unit and the charging unit, wherein the protecting agent charging member is a conductive blade.