Abstract A liquid developer is contained in a receptacle and a carrier having a latent electrostatic image thereon is guided through the liquid developer together with a development electrode for a distance sufficient to give a developed image of optimum density. In the several embodiments of the invention disclosed and described, the carrier is maintained in spaced relation to the development electrode and both are moved substantially in synchronism so that the developer therebetween is moved therewith at substantially the same linear speed as the carrier. By this arrangement with which the liquid developer is moved, a high degree of density uniformity and solid area coverage is obtained to provide an image of optimum density.
Apparatus for developing a latent electrostatic image on one surface of a carrier, comprising: a receptacle containing a liquid developer; a plurality of drums interconnected by an endless, electroconductive belt for establishing a path of movement for said carrier; said carrier being maintained by said drums with said one surface in spaced relation to at least the portion of said belt immersed in said liquid developer; each of said drums comprising a central hub for engaging said belt and a pair of spaced, dielectric flanges for supporting said carrier in spaced relation to said belt; the hub of at least one of said drums being electrically conductive; a source of electrical potential connected to said belt; and means for moving said carrier and belt substantially in synchronism, whereby the liquid developer between said one surface and said portion of said belt is moved with and at substantially the same linear speed as said carrier.