Patent ID: 8824940

Claim:
An image forming apparatus, comprising: at least two image bearers configured to carry toner images; an endless intermediate transfer member rotating in a prescribed direction; at least two semiconductive primary transfer members arranged inside the intermediate transfer member opposing the at least two image bearers, said at least two semiconductive primary transfer members transferring and superimposing the toner images on the endless intermediate transfer member in a primary transfer in a primary electric field created between the at least two image bearers and the at least two semiconductive primary transfer members, respectively; a heat generating member arranged inside the intermediate transfer member and configured to generate heat; a plate member that is made of metal and that is nonrotatable inside the intermediate transfer member and that is arranged below the heat generating member, the plate member extending horizontally from a position of the heat generating member to a position below the at least two semiconductive primary transfer members; and at least two heat shielding side plates configured to substantially close an inner space of the intermediate transfer member.