Patent ID: 7004650
Filing Date: 2006-02-28
Classification: G03B,G03G

Abstract:
1. A method for developing a latent image formed on an image carrier with a developing liquid, said developing method comprising: storing the developing liquid comprising a developing substance and a carrier liquid in a liquid storing section; depositing the developing liquid fed from said liquid storing section onto a developer carrier; and sensing a liquid level in said liquid storing section using a float type liquid level sensor, said float type liquid level sensor comprising: a magnetic force generating member; magnetic force sensing means for sensing a magnetic force of said magnetic force generating member; and spherical floats movable in an up-and-down direction in accordance with the liquid level in said liquid storing section, wherein a distance between said magnetic force generating member and said magnetic force sensing means varies in accordance with a movement of said floats, allowing the liquid level to be determined on the basis of an output of said magnetic force sensing means.