| 摘要 |
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prolong the life of an image forming apparatus, which has an intermediate transfer medium composed of an endless image carrier belt having a seam, by restraining damage to the intermediate transfer medium. SOLUTION: The intermediate transfer belt 71 is formed from the endless belt having the seam along which the edges of a substantially rectangular sheet body are joined together. When the rotation movement of the intermediate transfer belt 71 is resumed, a cleaner 761 is allowed to move and come into contact with the intermediate transfer belt 71 such that a transfer inhibition area 714 (area where no toner images are held) of the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 71 is at a cleaning position Pc(condition (1)) and the seam 711 is not at the cleaning position Pc (condition (2)). This prevents the cleaner 761 from moving and coming into contact with the seam 711 in the course of a cleaner and process initialization. Accordingly, damage such as curling of the intermediate transfer belt 71 caused by the cleaner 761 can be prevented. COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI
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