Patent ID: 6778794
Filing Date: 2004-08-17
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
An image forming apparatus comprising:at least one image carrier configured to carry a visual image formed thereon; an intermediate transfer element configured to carry the visual image from the at least one image carrier to a recording material; a primary transfer device configured to transfer the visual image from the at least one image carrier onto the intermediate transfer element; a secondary transfer device configured to transfer the visual image on the intermediate transfer element onto the recording material; a cleaning device configured to make contact with the intermediate transfer element to remove developer remaining on the intermediate transfer element; a discharging device configured to discharge the intermediate transfer element, the discharging device being positioned in downstream of the secondary transfer device and upstream of the cleaning device in a moving direction of the intermediate transfer element; and a grounding member configured to electrically around the intermediate transfer element at an opposite side of the discharging device with respect to the intermediate transfer element.