Abstract
We have developed a numerical method for calculating the motion of toner and carrier particles in an electrophotographic two-component magnetic brush development system to improve system performances by using a three-dimensional distinct element method. Key features of this simulation method are that forces applied to toner and carrier particles include not only magnetic but also electrostatic forces involving a time-dependent electric current in the brush of conductive carrier particles and the air drag due to the airflow induced by the rotation of the development sleeve and photoreceptor drum. Numerical calculations were performed to investigate several subjects that have not been investigated thoroughly : chain formation of the carrier brush, effectiveness of noncontact development, bead-carry-out, and effect of airflow. It was confirmed that the calculation results agree with the experimental observations, and some countermeasures against image defects are proposed. It is expected that the presented numerical method can be used to improve the two-component magnetic brush development system in electrophotography.
