Method and apparatus for image forming

A process cartridge, comprising:

• means for bearing an image;
• means for carrying a developer toward the means for bearing;
• and
• first and second means for positioning the means for bearing and the means for carrying so as to regulate a gap formed for image forming performed by the means for bearing and the means for carrying to a predetermined distance.

An image forming apparatus, comprising:

• an optical writing unit configured to emit a laser light beam to write an image;
• and
• a process cartridge, comprising:
• an image bearing unit, comprising:
• a photoconductor configured to form the image emitted by the optical writing unit on a surface thereof;
• and
• a photoconductor case configured to accommodate the photoconductor;
• a developing unit detachably combined with the image bearing unit, comprising:
• a developer case configured to contain a developer;
• and
• a developing roller configured to carry the developer on a surface thereof to develop a toner image based on the image formed on the surface of the photoconductor;
• and
• first and second positioning members respectively disposed at each side of the photoconductor case and the developer case when the photoconductor case and the developer case are attached in combination, and configured to position the developing roller and the photoconductor so as to regulate a gap formed between the developing roller and the photoconductor to a predetermined distance.