COLOR ELECTROSTATOGRAPHIC APPARATUS HAVING AN INTERMEDIATE TRANSFER MEMBER

摘要

A method of forming multicolor images includes forming a series of toner images of different color on an image member (2), transferring the images directly to the surface of an endless intermediate transfer member (109) in registration as an endless intermediate member rotates repeatedly into transfer relationship with the image member and then transferring the resulting multicolor images in one step from the transfer member to a copy sheet or other receiving surface. The image forming step includes both forming large toner images on the image member which large toner images have a long dimension running parallel with the direction of motion of the image member and forming small toner images which small toner images have their long dimension running accross said direction of motion. The transfer member (109) has a circumference substantially equal to the distance on said image member between comparable points in consecutive large images and equal to the distance on said image member between comparable points in consecutive pairs of small images. Apparatus for accomplishing the method includes alternative embodiments in which the intermediate transfer member is a drum (109) or is a belt or web (81).