Transfer medium separating device
 An improved copy paper separating device for use in a transfer type electrophotographic copying machine is provided. The separating device includes a conductive carrier member, preferably in the form of a conductive endless belt extended between a pair of pulleys. The conductive carrier member is disposed in the periphery of the photosensitive member to which a copy paper is brought into contact for the transfer of a toner image formed on the photosensitive member. The potential of the conductive carrier member is maintained nearly at zero level during the first step of the separating operation; whereas, the potential of the carrier member is increased to a predetermined value of the polarity opposite to that of the toner image during the second step. Information as to the conditions of separating operation is also supplied and the timing of changing potentials is appropriately adjusted. Moreover, a plurality of voltage sources having different potential levels are provided and the potential is selectively applied to the carrier member as required, which is particularly useful when applied to a duplex copying machine. 
Ricoh Company, Ltd.
Y G
Y10S G03G
additional inventional
Yoshihiro Yoshihiro Harumi
Ogata Abe Takahashi