Patent ID: 6054241
Filing Date: 2000-04-25
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
An image forming method comprising an exposure step of effecting exposure on the basis of image data to form an electrostatic latent image on a latent image support member which is uniformly charged, and a developing step of developing the electrostatic latent image by using a developer on a developer support member to make the electrostatic latent image visible, whereinthe developer comprises a magnetic carrier and a toner;a developing curve of the developer at the time when the developer is used has a saturated characteristic, the developing curve being an expression of the relation between the amount of toner transferred to the latent image support member and contrast potential, the contrast potential being determined by the developing bias potential applied to the developer support member and the potential of an exposed portion of the latent image support member;the proportion of the toner in the developer is in a range from 5 to 10% by weight;the time constant of the developer is less than or equal to 40 msec; andthe developing step comprises applying a developing bias voltage to the developer support member such that the amount of the toner transferred to the latent image support member reaches a saturated range.