Image Formation System
Laser printing requires the interaction of several different
technologies (such as electronics, optics, and
electro-photographics) to provide a printed page. Each process
functions independently and must be coordinated with all other
printer processes. The image formation process centers around
the photosensitive drum and consists of six stages:
1. Cleaning 4. Developing
2. Conditioning 5. Transferring
3. Writing 6. Fusing
The toner cartridge houses the cleaning, conditioning, and
developing stages of the electro-photographic (EP) process.
Components of the image formation system that wear, degrade,
or are consumed are built into the replaceable cartridge. The
toner cartridge contains the photosensitive drum, primary
charging roller, developing station, toner cavity, and cleaning
station. This eliminates the need for a service call when
replacement is required.
Figure 5-6 Image Formation System
5-16 Functional Overview