JP2000346919A - Method and device for analyzing magnetic field distribution - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily facilitate the input for analysis of a magnetic field distribution. SOLUTION: A typical shape-parameter or the like is displayed on a screen when inputting a parameter for analysis by a finite element method to a data inputting part 11 including a mouse and a keyboard. A user can input a parameter referencing to the screen. A member of object for analysis is displayed as an image based on the input parameter, and also, the parameter can be changed from the data inputting part 11 based on the result. An input for change of the parameter is done to the data inputting part 11 and adequacy of the input parameter is confirmed. Thereafter, an analysis part 15 conducts an analysis by the finite element method, and the analysis result is displayed by a display part 16. The progress status of the analysis is easy-understandably displayed by a computing process display part 18. Even a magnetization process can be included as an object of analysis.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for analyzing a magnetic field distribution of a device equipped with a magnet, particularly a magnet roller used for forming an image using a magnetic developer in an electrophotographic system. .

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, development systems used in an electrophotographic system of an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or a laser printer are roughly classified into two systems, a two-component development system and a one-component development system.

[0003] The two-component development system uses Fe as a developer.
A carrier composed of ferromagnetic particles such as (iron) or ferrite and a toner that is fine particles having a pigment or the like are mixed and used. In the two-component development system, the charging characteristics of the developer can be adjusted by changing the mixing ratio of the carrier and the toner. The two-component development system is also excellent in the development characteristics of fine lines and solid images and the reproducibility of gradation.
Also suitable for forming color images.

On the other hand, the one-component developing method is a method using only toner as a developer. There is an advantage that there is no need to mix or stir the toner and the carrier, and further, it is not necessary to control the toner concentration and replace the toner. Further, the one-component developing method is divided into a method using a magnetic toner as a toner and a method using a non-magnetic toner.
Can be divided into two types.

In a one-component developing system using a magnetic toner,
Further, there is an advantage that a uniform toner layer can be easily formed and the toner can be easily transported. Further, a phenomenon called fog in which toner adheres to a background portion of an image and toner scattering can be suppressed by the magnetic binding force of the toner. However, since the magnetic toner contains colored magnetic powder, it is not suitable for forming a color image. For this reason, at present, the colorization of the image forming apparatus is progressing, the one-component developing method using the magnetic toner is no longer used, and the two-component developing method and the non-magnetic one-component developing method are becoming mainstream. Hereinafter, a developing device employing the two-component developing method will be described.

At present, in the two-component developing method, a magnet fixing method in which a magnet roller having a plurality of magnets is fixed and a cylindrical sleeve provided outside thereof is rotated to convey a developer is mainly used. The development process by such a method is controlled mainly by the magnetic field distribution of the magnet. Therefore, in order to design an image forming apparatus using an electrophotographic system, it is necessary to design the magnet so that the magnetic field distribution of the magnet is in an appropriate state.

The magnetic field distribution in the magnet roller is determined according to the position and magnetic force of the magnetic pole of the magnet used. Therefore, in order to design the magnetic field distribution to be in an appropriate state, it is preferable to previously perform a magnetic field distribution analysis by simulation based on conditions such as the arrangement of the magnets and the strength of the magnetic force. By such a simulation, the number of trial productions of the developing device can be reduced, and the cost required for design can be reduced.

[0008] The simulation related to the magnet roller of such an image forming apparatus is, for example, organized by the Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers and held on May 28-31, 1996 in Oji, Kita-ku, Tokyo. "Dynamics related to electromagnetic force" Symposium, pp.235-24
It is disclosed in a paper entitled "Dynamics Related to Electromagnetic Force in Electrophotography" on page 0. Hereinafter, this paper is referred to as Document (I).

This document (I) describes a simulation of a magnetic force acting on a carrier and a simulation of a calculation for magnetizing a magnet roller. In the simulation of the magnetic force acting on the carrier, the influence of the magnetic field generated by the magnet on the carrier on the sleeve surface is analyzed using the position of the carrier as a parameter. At this time, the interaction between carriers is ignored. According to this document (I), it is possible to perform a simulation with high consistency with the actually measured value for the magnetic flux density on the sleeve surface.

On the other hand, in the simulation of the calculation of the magnetization of the magnet roller, a simulation is performed on the magnetization of the magnet roller necessary to obtain a desired distribution of the magnetic flux density on the sleeve surface. The magnet to be simulated is a so-called plastic magnet, which is created by injection-molding a plastic including a powder magnet. A magnet for magnetization is incorporated as a magnetizing member in a mold for injection molding, and the plastic magnet is anisotropically magnetized simultaneously with injection molding.

The simulation is performed by the following steps (1) to (3) using the finite element method and the shape and arrangement of the magnet as parameters. (1) The magnetic flux density in the magnet roller is obtained by calculation of the static magnetic field of the system including the magnet. (2) The magnetization distribution of the magnet roller is determined from the relationship between the magnetization of the magnet and the magnetic flux density determined in advance by an element test. (3) Using the obtained magnetization distribution, a static magnetic field in a system including only a magnet roller without a magnetized magnet is calculated, and a magnetic flux density in a space is obtained.

According to Document (I), the error from the actual measurement value in this simulation is ± 15% or less at the peak value of the magnetic flux density and 5 ° or less at the peak position. Therefore, by using such a simulation, the cost for designing a magnet having a desired mode can be reduced by analyzing the magnetizing conditions for obtaining the desired magnetic characteristics and feeding it back to the setting of the magnetizing conditions. It is considered possible.

An analysis system for performing a simulation using the finite element method is disclosed, for example, in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-2.
It is also disclosed in JP-A-12683. Hereinafter, this publication is referred to as Document (II). Document (II) discloses a prior art for performing a simulation of the behavior of a structure by a finite element method. The simulation was performed using a mouse as an input device and a CR as a display device.
T, a solver program as an analyzer, a pre / post processor, and a system controller.
The analysis device and the pre / post processor create a finite element model for the structural model to be analyzed, perform a numerical analysis, and output an analysis result to a CRT. The system control device controls the entire system.

In the system of this document (II), the structural model to be analyzed is changed using a mouse and an input screen on a CRT. Further, as an analysis result, the behavior of each member in the structural model can be clearly displayed on a CRT. Therefore, it is described that the user can easily change the analysis target and visually determine whether the analysis result is appropriate.

[0015]

However, in the systems described in the above-mentioned references (I) and (II), the user must input the structural model to be analyzed as data input, which makes inputting simple and easy. No consideration is given to operability. Therefore, in the system of Document (II), modeling of a structure to create a structural model,
Alternatively, work such as setting of boundary conditions necessary for finite element analysis is very complicated and difficult, and it is very difficult work for general users. Further, in the system of this document (II), no consideration is given to incorporating the analysis result into a CAD system or the like. Therefore, it is not possible to create other images using the analysis results,
The use range of the analysis result becomes very narrow.

In order to efficiently design a magnet or the like used in an image forming apparatus, the magnetic field distribution of the magnet roller is determined by a magnetizing process for giving spontaneous magnetization to the magnet, the shape and arrangement of the magnet in the developing device, and the like. Alternatively, an analysis method and an analysis device that can be obtained by numerical analysis based on parameters such as the size and the like, and that can easily use analysis results and can easily input necessary parameters are desired.

An object of the present invention is to provide a method and an apparatus for analyzing a magnetic field distribution which can easily input a shape and a numerical parameter required for analysis and use a result.

[0018]

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for analyzing a magnetic field distribution formed on a device having a magnet, comprising:
For a device to be analyzed, a plurality of types of first parameter candidates required when performing analysis are determined in advance,
Displaying the predetermined first parameter candidates on a display screen, determining a necessary first parameter from among the candidates, and requesting inputs for a plurality of second parameters that determine the characteristics of the first parameter; First and second input
A magnetic field distribution analysis method characterized by analyzing a magnetic field distribution of the device based on parameters and outputting an analysis result.

According to the present invention, when analyzing a magnetic field distribution formed by a device having a magnet, candidates for the first parameter required for the device to be analyzed, for example,
A plurality of shapes to be analyzed are determined in advance. These predetermined first parameter candidates are displayed on the display screen, and an input for determining the first parameter is requested from the candidates. Then, the input of the numerical value of the second parameter for determining the characteristic of the determined first parameter is required. As described above, since the user can input the parameters of the shape and the numerical value while viewing a plurality of types of candidates, the parameters can be easily input. The input parameters are used to analyze the magnetic field distribution of the device by a numerical analysis method such as a finite element method, and the analysis result is output.

According to the present invention, an image representing the device is displayed on a display screen based on the input first and second parameters, and an instruction as to whether or not there is a change in each of the above parameters is obtained together with the display. When there is a change instruction, the parameter is changed according to the instruction, and an image representing the device is displayed based on the changed parameter.

According to the present invention, an image of the device based on the input parameters is displayed on the display screen, and an instruction as to whether or not there is a change in each parameter is obtained. Then, since the image of the device is displayed based on the changed parameter, the parameter can be compared with the displayed image of the device to confirm. The user can easily judge the validity of the parameter and improve the efficiency of data processing.

Further, the present invention relates to an apparatus provided with a magnet which is formed while applying an external magnetic field.
A first step of analyzing the magnetizing process when magnetizing the magnet by applying an external magnetic field to determine the orientation characteristics, and a second step of determining the magnetization intensity characteristics of the magnet based on the analysis result of the orientation characteristics. A third step of obtaining a magnetic field distribution formed by the magnet based on the analysis result of the magnetization intensity characteristics, wherein each of the first to third steps includes:
Displaying a plurality of parameters on a display screen, prompting a user to input predetermined parameters, and including a parameter input step of performing a magnetic analysis based on the input parameters. This is an analysis method of the magnetic field distribution.

According to the invention, the device is provided with a plastic or rubber magnet. The magnetic characteristics of the magnet are determined based on the orientation characteristics and the magnetization intensity characteristics of the magnet particles existing in the plastic or rubber material. Displaying a plurality of parameters on a display screen, prompting the user to input predetermined parameters, and performing a parameter inputting step of performing magnetic analysis based on the input parameters; Third
Respectively. In the first step, an orientation characteristic is obtained by analyzing a magnetization process when an external magnetic field is applied to magnetize the magnet. In the second step, the magnetization intensity characteristic of the magnet is obtained based on the analysis result of the orientation characteristic. In the third step, a magnetic field distribution formed by the magnet is obtained based on the analysis result of the magnetization intensity characteristics. When performing the analysis in each of the first to third steps, necessary parameters can be input based on the parameters displayed on the display screen in the parameter input step, so that the parameter input operation by the user is very easy. It can be.

In the present invention, the first step displays an image of the magnetized member and the magnet for generating the external magnetic field and identifies the magnetized member and the magnet based on a parameter input by a user. Create an identification symbol and display it on the screen,
The method includes an image display step of requesting an instruction to change a parameter.

According to the present invention, in the first step of analyzing the magnetization process when applying an external magnetic field to magnetize the magnet to determine the orientation characteristics, the external magnetic field is generated based on the parameters input by the user. In addition to displaying the image of the magnetized member and the magnet to be generated, an identification symbol for identifying the magnetized member and the magnet is created and displayed on the screen, and the user is instructed to change the parameter. Since the magnetized members and magnets to be analyzed can be visually confirmed by the image, it is easy to determine the validity of the parameters and the member that has a problem, and to improve the efficiency of data processing. it can.

The first step of the present invention is characterized in that the first step includes a magnetization characteristic display step of displaying an initial magnetization curve and a minor loop, which are magnetization characteristics of the magnet, on a display screen.

According to the present invention, in the first step of analyzing the magnetization process when applying an external magnetic field to magnetize the magnet to determine the orientation characteristics, the initial magnetization curve and the minor loop, which are the magnetization characteristics of the magnet, are determined. Display on the display screen. By displaying the image of the magnetization characteristics of the magnet to be magnetized, it is possible to visually grasp the physical properties of the material,
It is easy to grasp the relationship between the magnet material and the magnetization characteristics. Further, in obtaining a desired magnetic field distribution, the range of choice of the magnet material is expanded, and the magnetization intensity can be easily selected.

According to the present invention, the output of the analysis result is performed by displaying the image on a display screen as an image. Features.

According to the present invention, the output of the analysis result is displayed as an image on the display screen in a display form selected from a plurality of display forms prepared in advance, so that the analysis result can be displayed in a display form desired by the user. Output can be performed, and the user can easily grasp the analysis result.

In the present invention, the user is required to select a desired storage mode from a plurality of storage modes provided in advance in order to individually store the analysis results by the analysis unit in association with each other. And a storage unit for storing the analysis result in a storage mode.

According to the present invention, as the output of the analysis result,
Since the data can be stored and stored in a storage format that can be selected from a plurality of types of storage formats prepared in advance, if the analysis result is stored as image data such as CAD data, the analysis result and the device to be analyzed are stored. An image can be formed by combining the above CAD data and the like, and an effective magnet can be designed in association with the overall structure of the device.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that when analyzing the magnetic field distribution, the progress of the analysis is displayed on a display screen.

According to the present invention, when analyzing the magnetic field distribution, the progress of the analysis is displayed on the display screen, so that the user can grasp the progress of the analysis by looking at the display screen. When the target processing amount is large and it takes time, it is possible to confirm the progress of the analysis and to efficiently perform other operations.

Further, in the present invention, the apparatus is an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, which is used for conveying a magnetic developer.

According to the present invention, the distribution of the magnetic field generated from the magnet is easily analyzed for the device used to transport the magnetic developer in the electrophotographic image forming apparatus. It is possible to easily design equipment in design and the like.

Further, the present invention relates to a magnetic field distribution analyzing apparatus for analyzing a magnetic field distribution formed in a device provided with a magnet, wherein the predetermined device required for performing analysis on the device to be analyzed is determined. A plurality of first parameter candidates, a display unit for displaying the first parameter candidates on a display screen, and an instruction for determining and instructing a required first parameter from the plurality of displayed first parameters. A data input unit for inputting a plurality of second parameters for determining characteristics of the first parameter, and a program for presetting a magnetic field distribution of the device based on each parameter input to the data input unit And an analysis unit for calculating by an analysis according to (1).

According to the present invention, in order to analyze a magnetic field distribution formed in an apparatus having a magnet, a plurality of types of predetermined first parameter candidates are held.
The predetermined first parameter candidates are displayed on the display screen, and a required first parameter is selected from the candidates. When inputting the numerical value of the second parameter that determines the characteristic of the selected first parameter, the meaning of the second parameter is displayed on the screen, and the user can refer to it. Input can be performed easily. The analysis unit calculates the magnetic field distribution of the device by analysis according to a preset program based on the shape and numerical value of the parameter input to the data input unit. Thus, the analysis result on the magnetic field distribution can be easily obtained.

Further, in the present invention, the data input unit can finely adjust the second parameter when inputting the second parameter for the shape specified by the first parameter.

According to the present invention, fine adjustment of the second parameter for the shape specified by the first parameter is possible in the data input unit, so that the design of the magnet and the like can be performed easily and accurately.

Further, according to the present invention, based on the first and second parameters input to the data input unit, an image of the device is displayed on the screen of the display unit, and the data input unit changes the parameter. It is characterized by further comprising a data confirmation unit that controls to prompt input of the presence / absence of and confirms the parameter.

According to the present invention, an image of a device to be analyzed is displayed on the screen of the display unit based on the input first and second parameters, and the data input unit is notified of whether or not there is a change in the above parameters. A data confirmation unit that confirms parameters so that the user is prompted to input the parameters. Therefore, it is possible to judge the validity of the parameters while visually confirming the displayed image and input the parameters, thereby improving the processing efficiency. Can be achieved.

Further, according to the present invention, in order to individually store the data of the analysis results by the analysis unit in association with each other, the user is required to select a desired storage form from a plurality of types of storage forms provided in advance. The data storage unit may further include a data storage unit for storing the analysis result in a storage format selected and selected.

According to the present invention, a desired storage mode is selected from a plurality of storage modes provided in advance, and the analysis result of the analysis section is stored and stored in the data storage section in the selected storage mode. it can. For example, if the data is stored as CAD data, an image can be formed by combining the analysis result and the CAD data of the device to be analyzed, and the structure of the entire device can be examined, and the analysis result can be effectively used. be able to.

Further, according to the present invention, the orientation characteristics of the magnet are analyzed based on the characteristics of a magnet formed while applying an external magnetic field and a magnetized member generating the external magnetic field. In the magnetic field distribution analysis apparatus for calculating the magnetic field distribution of the magnet based on the analysis result of the magnetization intensity, the orientation characteristics and the magnetization intensity characteristics of the magnet are calculated based on the parameters representing the characteristics of the individual magnetized members and the magnet. And an analysis unit for analyzing the magnetic field distribution by a numerical analysis method, a display unit for displaying characters and images, and displaying a plurality of types of parameters on the display unit, and providing a user with a predetermined parameter used for the analysis by the numerical analysis method. A data input unit for requesting input of a parameter.

According to the present invention, the orientation characteristics of the magnet are analyzed based on the characteristics of the magnet and the magnetized member to which an external magnetic field is applied, and based on the result, the magnetization intensity of the magnet is calculated. In order to predict the magnetic field distribution of the magnet based on the above, the analysis unit analyzes the orientation characteristics / magnetization intensity characteristics and the magnetic field distribution of the magnet by a numerical analysis method based on the parameters representing the characteristics of the individual magnetized members and the magnet. The display unit displays a plurality of types of parameters in order to require the user to input predetermined parameters used for analysis by the numerical analysis method to the data input unit. By the display on the display unit, the operation of the user at the time of inputting the parameter can be made very easy.

Further, according to the present invention, an image of a magnetized member and a magnet is created on the basis of the parameters input to the data input unit and displayed on the display unit, and an identification symbol for identifying the magnetized member and the magnet is created. The display device further includes a data confirmation unit for displaying on the display unit and requesting the user to indicate whether the parameter has been changed.

According to the present invention, the data confirmation unit creates an image of the magnetized member and the magnet and displays the image together with the identification symbol on the display unit. By displaying images, the parameters to be input to the data input unit can be visually confirmed, so that it is easy to determine the validity of the parameters and the member or the like having a defect, and to perform data processing associated with the design of a magnet or the like. Efficiency can be improved.

The present invention is further characterized by further comprising a magnet characteristic display section for displaying an initial magnetization curve and a minor loop of the magnet on the display section.

According to the present invention, since the initial magnetization curve and the minor loop representing the magnetization characteristics of the magnet to be magnetized are displayed on the display unit, the material properties of the magnet can be visually grasped. In addition, the relationship between the magnetization characteristics and the shape of the magnet required to obtain a desired magnetic field distribution can be easily understood, the range of choice of the magnet material can be expanded, and the selection of the magnetization intensity can be easily performed. Become.

Further, in the present invention, the analysis unit derives, as an analysis result by the numerical analysis method, an orientation characteristic and a magnetization intensity characteristic due to the magnetization of the magnet, and a magnetic field distribution of the magnetized magnet. Can be stored in a plurality of types prepared in advance in order to store them individually in association with each other. The user is requested to select a desired mode via the display unit, and the selected mode is selected. The apparatus may further include a data storage unit that stores the analysis result in a form.

According to the present invention, the orientation characteristics and the magnetization intensity characteristics due to the magnetization of the magnet, which are derived from the analysis unit as the data of the analysis result by the numerical analysis method, and the magnetic field distribution of the magnetized magnet are individually associated with each other. It can be stored in the data storage. The user is requested to select a desired form from a plurality of forms prepared in advance via the display unit, and the analysis result is stored in the selected form, so after analysis, if related data is necessary, Each can be easily extracted. Further, by storing data of the analysis result of the magnetic field distribution of the magnet as image data such as CAD data, an image combining the analysis result and the image forming apparatus can be formed, and the photosensitive member and the developing device can be formed. The examination of the entire system including the above can also be performed effectively.

The present invention also provides a data suitability judging unit for judging the suitability of a parameter input to the data input unit and excluding a negated parameter, and displaying the progress of the analysis in the analyzing unit on the display unit. And an analysis result display unit for displaying a result analyzed by the analysis unit on the display unit in a display form desired by the user, and controls at least one of the units. And a controller for controlling the operation.

According to the present invention, the parameters input to the data input unit are judged by the data suitability judging unit to be appropriate, and the parameters denied by the data suitability judging unit are excluded. This can be performed in a state where inconsistent parameters and the like have been removed, and efficient analysis of the magnetic field distribution can be performed using only effective parameters. Further, since the progress of the analysis in the analysis unit is displayed on the screen of the display unit, the user can easily grasp the progress of the analysis by looking at the screen. Further, when a desired display mode is selected from a plurality of types of display modes, the analysis result is displayed on the screen in the selected display mode. That is, when the user selects a desired display mode, the analysis result can be displayed in an easily understandable manner.

Further, according to the present invention, when analyzing a magnetic field distribution formed in a device having a magnet, a plurality of types of first parameter candidates required for performing analysis on a device to be analyzed are determined in advance. In addition, the predetermined plurality of first parameter candidates are displayed on a display screen, a necessary first parameter is determined from the displayed plurality of first parameters, and the characteristics of the first parameter are determined. An input is obtained for a second parameter to be determined, a magnetic field distribution of the device is analyzed based on the input first and second parameters, and a program for causing a computer to execute an analysis method of outputting an analysis result is recorded. It is a computer-readable medium.

According to the present invention, a general-purpose computer such as a personal computer or a workstation reads a program from a medium, analyzes a magnetic field distribution, selects a first parameter candidate for a shape or the like, and selects a selected first parameter. Since the second parameter, such as a numerical value, is input for one parameter, the process can be executed in a state where the input by the user is easy.

Further, the present invention relates to an apparatus provided with a magnet which is formed while applying an external magnetic field. And a second step of obtaining a magnetization intensity characteristic of the magnet based on the analysis result of the orientation characteristic. And a third step of obtaining a magnetic field distribution to be formed. The first to third steps include displaying a plurality of parameters on a display screen and inputting predetermined parameters to a user. And recording a program for causing a computer to execute a magnetic field distribution analysis method including a parameter input step of performing magnetic analysis based on the input parameters. Computer is a readable medium.

According to the present invention, a general-purpose computer such as a personal computer or a work station reads a program from a medium and analyzes a magnetic field distribution in a first step for obtaining orientation characteristics by magnetizing a magnet. A second step of obtaining a strength characteristic; and a third step of obtaining a magnetic field distribution formed by a magnet. In each step, a plurality of parameters are displayed on a display screen, and a predetermined parameter is input to a user. Is obtained and a magnetic analysis is performed based on the input parameters, so that the input can be executed easily by the user.

[0058]

FIG. 1 shows a schematic system configuration of a magnetic field distribution analyzer 1 used for a simulation in each embodiment of the present invention. The magnetic field distribution analyzer 1 includes a data input unit 11, a finite element model generation unit 12, a data conversion unit 13, a boundary condition setting unit 14, an analysis unit 15, an analysis result display unit 16, a control unit 17, a calculation process display unit 18, A data storage unit 19, a storage unit 20, a macro unit 21, a data suitability determination unit 22, a data confirmation unit 23, and a display unit 24 including a CRT display or a liquid crystal display device are provided.
Each unit can be configured by dedicated hardware, or can be downloaded to a general-purpose computer device such as a personal computer or a workstation via a medium such as a CD-ROM or FD (floppy disk) or from a network. Alternatively, the program can be read to operate as the magnetic field distribution analyzer 1.

The data input unit 11 allows the user to input the first and second data using an input device such as a mouse or a keyboard.
The display unit 24 allows the user to input parameters.
A predetermined input screen is set on the display screen, and an operation of requesting the user to input the above parameters is performed. The input screen will be described later.

The finite element model generation unit 12 sets a first boundary condition and divides the mesh into finite elements according to the first and second parameters input by the user to generate a finite element model. I do. The first boundary condition is a strength that is a condition of the magnetic field in the magnet.

The data converter 13 converts the finite element model generated by the finite element model generator 12 into a predetermined form. The boundary condition setting unit 14 sets a second boundary condition for the finite element model converted by the data conversion unit 13. The second boundary condition is a boundary condition in the analysis area. The analysis unit 15 handles the finite element model converted by the data conversion unit 13. That is, the data conversion unit 13
Converts the finite element model generated by the finite element model generation unit 12 into a form that the analysis unit 15 can handle. The analysis unit 15 performs a numerical analysis of the magnetic field distribution by applying the finite element method based on the finite element model from the data conversion unit 13 and the boundary conditions from the boundary condition setting unit 14. The analysis result display unit 16 sets a predetermined output screen on the display screen,
The result of the numerical analysis by the analysis unit 15 is displayed. This display screen will be described later.

The control unit 17 is a central unit that controls the operation of the entire system of the magnetic field distribution analyzer 1. The calculation process display unit 18 displays the progress of the operation of the calculation process in the present system on a display screen. The display of this progress situation will be described later. The storage unit 20 stores and stores the analysis result of the analysis unit 15. The macro unit 21 performs processing that is repeated in the finite element model generation unit 12. The data suitability determination unit 22 determines whether parameters and data input to the data input unit 11 are appropriate. The data confirmation unit 23 confirms the parameter so as to prompt the user to input whether or not the parameter has been changed. The display unit 24 outputs images and character strings output from the analysis result display unit 16 and the calculation process display unit 18 to a liquid crystal display (LC).
It is displayed on a display screen such as D).

FIG. 2 shows a flowchart of a simulation performed as the first embodiment of the present invention by the magnetic field distribution analyzer 1 of FIG. In the magnet to be simulated, the orientation direction of the magnetic substance inside is treated as being constant. As a material of the magnet, a general magnet manufactured by a sintering method or a casting method, a plastic magnet or a rubber magnet in which magnetic particles are mixed in a plastic material or a rubber material, and the like can be generally applied.

When the simulation is started, the control unit 17 controls the data input unit 11 in step S1 to
A predetermined input screen is set on the display unit 24, and the user is requested to input data of the first and second parameters. The detailed operation of step S1 will be described later. When the data is input, the control unit 17 supplies the data to the finite element model generation unit 12 in step S2, and controls the finite element model generation unit 12 to generate a finite element model according to the data. After that, in step S3, the control unit 17 controls the data conversion unit 13 to convert the finite element model into a predetermined form, and controls the boundary condition setting unit 14 to set the second boundary condition. The control unit 17 further controls the analysis unit 15 in step S4, and
The magnetic field distribution is analyzed by the finite element method from the second boundary condition obtained in (1). After completion of this analysis, the control unit 17
Controls the analysis result display unit 16 to display the analysis result on the display unit 24 in step S5, and requests the user to indicate whether to save the analysis result.

In step S6, the control unit 17 determines whether or not the data input unit 11 has received an instruction from the user to save the analysis result. When it is determined that there is an instruction, in step S7, the control unit 17 controls the data storage unit 19 to store the analysis result. The detailed operations of step S5 and step S7 will be described later. If it is determined in step S6 that there is an instruction not to save the analysis result, or if the saving operation in step S7 is completed, in step S8, the controller 17
Requests the user to indicate whether to end the simulation or to perform another simulation by inputting other data. When an instruction to perform another simulation is made via the data input unit 11, the process returns to step S1. In step S8, when an instruction to end is given via the data input unit 11, the simulation ends.

During the operation of steps S2 to S4, the control unit 17 controls the calculation process display unit 18 to display the progress of the calculation process on the display screen of the display unit 24. This control will also be described later.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus to be analyzed in the simulation of FIG. Such image forming apparatuses are used in copiers, page printers, and the like that form images using an electrophotographic method.
A magnetic field is generated by a magnet 101 in a developing tank 100 which is a developing device of the image forming apparatus. Developing tank 100
Inside, a stirring roller 102 is provided to stir the developer 103. The developer 103 is a two-component or one-component developer having magnetism. In the present embodiment, the two-component developer 103 is used.

The developer 103 receives an attraction force according to the magnetic field generated by the magnet 101. Magnet 10
Around the circumference 1, a cylindrical sleeve 104 is rotatably arranged. A stirring roller 10 is provided on the surface of the sleeve 104.
The developer 103 stirred in 2 adheres by magnetic force.
The sleeve 104 rotates counterclockwise in the drawing, and the layer thickness of the developer 103 attached to the surface of the sleeve 104 is regulated by the doctor blade 105. Sleeve 104
Inside, a magnet roller 106 having a plurality of magnets 101 is arranged. Magnet roller 106
The sleeve 104 that rotates around the outside of the developer transports the developer 103 to a development area approaching the photoconductor 107, and
3 is brought into contact with the photoconductor 107 to perform development. Photoconductor 10
An electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image is formed on the surface of the developing device 7, and the developer 103 is electrostatically attracted to perform development, which is visualization of the electrostatic latent image. In the magnet roller 106, a plurality of magnets 101 are fixed and held by a base 109.

One development process by the developing device shown in FIG. 3 is performed in the following steps (1) to (5). (1) The developer 103 is supplied to the surface of the sleeve 104. (2) The sleeve 104 is moved by the doctor blade 105.
The layer thickness of the upper developer 103 is controlled. (3) Developer 1 adhering on the surface of sleeve 104
The particles of the developer 103 are connected in the direction of the magnetic field in a development area approaching the photoconductor 107 by 03 to form a soft developer brush. (4) The surface of the photoconductor 107 is rubbed with a developer brush to develop an electrostatic latent image on the photoconductor 107. (5) The developer 103 is scraped off from the sleeve 104 and collected.

The toner concentration in the developing tank 100 is
The toner is detected by a toner concentration sensor (not shown), and a predetermined amount of toner is supplied from the toner replenishing device 108 according to the detection result. The toner and the carrier are mixed by the stirring roller 102 to form the developer 103. .

The above steps are mainly performed by each magnet 101
Is controlled by the magnetic field distribution. That is, the sleeve 1
The developer 103 transported along with the magnet 1
01 receives a magnetic attractive force according to the magnetic field distribution.
Therefore, the magnetic field distribution formed by the magnet 101 is
For example, the magnetic field received by the developer 103 is set to be small in the step (5) and large in the step (4). This magnetic field distribution is also closely related to the distance between the sleeve 104 and the doctor blade 105 and the distance between the sleeve 104 and the photoconductor 107.

If the magnetic field distribution analyzer 1 of FIG. 1 is used, the arrangement and shape of the magnet 101 and the strength of the magnetic force capable of generating an ideal magnetic field distribution for the above-mentioned steps (1) to (5) are determined. It can be determined by simulation using the finite element method, using the shape, arrangement, strength of magnetic force, and the like of the magnet as parameters.

FIG. 4 shows an example of the analysis model. Analysis area 1 of the magnet 101 to be analyzed (shaded area in the figure)
10 can be appropriately determined according to the set strength of the magnet based on the fact that the strength of the magnetic field is inversely proportional to the square of the distance. In the above-described setting of the first boundary condition, the strength of the magnetic field in each element of the analysis region of the magnet 101 divided into the finite elements is set. The boundary condition in the region 110, that is, ∂B / ∂n = 0, which is a condition that the magnetic field does not leak outside the analysis region, is set. Here, B indicates a magnetic flux density, and n indicates a unit vector in a normal direction.

FIG. 5 shows a more detailed operation of the data input shown as step S1 in FIG. In this data input, the control unit 17 controls the operation of the data input unit 11 in all cases. When data input is started, the data input unit 11 sets a predetermined data input screen on the display screen of the display unit 24. Using this data input screen, the user inputs the first and second parameters, which are data to be input, for each predetermined characteristic item. That is, the user sets the sleeve 10 in step S11.
Then, characteristic items such as dimensions of No. 4 are inputted, and in step S12, characteristic items such as polarity and dimensions of the magnet roller 106 are inputted. In step S13, the magnet 101
Is input to the data input screen, indicating the characteristic items such as position, shape, size, magnetic flux density and polarity. Here, among the characteristic items, the shape parameter representing the shape of the magnet 101 is the first parameter, and the numerical data input to the other characteristic items correspond to the second parameter.

In step S14, after inputting all the data of the characteristic items of each member, the input data confirmation button is used to confirm whether the numerical data among the data input by the user is incomplete or not. Make a selection. With this selection, the data input unit 11 confirms whether or not the numerical data indicating the respective characteristic items input in steps S11 to S13 is incomplete. When it is confirmed that there is no deficiency in the numerical values, in step S15, the data input unit 11 displays on the display screen of the display unit 24 an image showing the magnet 101 / sleeve 104 and the magnet roller 106 corresponding to each input characteristic item. Is displayed. This display mainly confirms whether the shape or arrangement according to the input characteristic item is correct, that is, whether or not the magnet is interfering, and whether or not the arrangement of the magnet or the like is intended. This is performed so that the user can visually check the information. In step S16, it is determined whether or not an input as to whether or not to change the data is made based on the result of the visual confirmation by the user. When it is confirmed in step S14 that the numerical values are incomplete, or when an input for changing data is performed in step S16, the process returns to step S11. If it is determined in step S16 that there is no change in data, the data input operation ends.

FIG. 6 shows, as an example, a data input screen 120 displayed when data is input in steps S11 to S13 of FIG. The data input screen 120 includes a sleeve property item field 120SC, a magnet roller property item field 120RC, and a magnet property item field 120M.
C · Check message field 120TM · Parameter menu field 120PM · Input data confirmation button 120IB · O
K button 120OB / partial correction button 120PB / overall correction button 120AB and cancel button 120C
B is displayed.

Step S11 and step S1 in FIG.
In 2, in the sleeve characteristic item column 120SC and the magnet roller characteristic item column 120RC, the user uses the keyboard of the data input unit 11 to input numerical data, which is the second parameter indicating the characteristic items of the sleeve 104 and the magnet roller 106, respectively. input. FIG.
In step S13, the parameter menu column 1
20 PM is used. Parameter menu column 120PM
A predetermined number of second parameters indicating the position, angle, and fine adjustment amount of the magnet 101 and first parameters indicating the type of a typical shape of the magnet 101 are displayed in the table. The user can select the first parameter indicating the type of the shape of the magnet 101, input the first parameter into the magnet characteristic item field 120MC, and further input the second parameter indicating the position, angle, and fine adjustment amount of the magnet 101 by numerical values. .

In the input of the magnet characteristic items in step S13, the user first selects the shape of the magnet 101, which is the first parameter. Selected magnet 10
The position, angle, and dimension, which are the second parameters, are input using the keyboard of the data input unit 11 based on the shape of 1, and the fine adjustment amount is selected, and the previously input or selected position and angle are finely adjusted. Adjusted. Further, a second parameter as data such as magnetic flux density and polarity is input using a keyboard.

FIG. 7 shows the magnet characteristic item column 12 shown in FIG.
A specific example of data input is shown based on the example of 0MC and the parameter menu column 120PM. FIG. 7A shows a specific example of the magnet characteristic item column 120MC.
The “magnet number” is a position number of the plurality of magnets 101 in the magnet roller 106, for example, II
I, III, etc. are input, and then the angle as "A", which is information on the position of the magnet, and the distance from the center as "B" are input. "Polar" means that the polarity of the magnet is N
Enter the pole or S pole. “Strength” is the strength of the magnet. In the “shape”, a desired magnet shape is selected from the parameter menu field 120PM, and a symbol indicating the shape is input. In the “basic dimensions”, shape data C and D corresponding to the shape specified in the “shape” are input. In the “detailed dimension”, similarly, values of E and F which are the detailed dimension of the corresponding shape are input. If fine adjustment of the shape or position of the magnet is required, the necessary data is input in the "shape adjustment" column.

In this case as well, although not shown, necessary input data relating to fine adjustment is shown in the same manner as in the case of magnet position information, and the user can easily determine what data to input. I understand it. Further, the magnet characteristic item field 120MC is configured so that only data corresponding to the selected magnet can be input, and data cannot be input by clicking the input field of unnecessary data with a mouse. This prevents calculation errors due to input of unnecessary data.

FIGS. 7 (b) and 7 (c) correspond to FIG.
A parameter menu field 120PM displayed when an input is made for the magnet characteristic item field 120MC of (a).
Here is an example. FIG. 7 shows the parameter menu column 120PM.
As shown in (b), data required for input, for example, A: an angle for indicating the position of the magnet, B: a distance from the center, C, D, E: dimensions indicating the size of the magnet are displayed. ing. Also, as shown in FIG.
The preset magnet shapes c1, c2,... Are displayed. For example, when the magnet shape c1 shown in FIG. 7C is selected, data corresponding to “E” or “F” of “detailed dimensions” in FIG. 7A exists as magnet shape data. Therefore, input prohibition processing is performed on the input field. As a method of clearly indicating whether input is possible or not, for example, a column in which input is possible and a column in which input is not possible can be displayed in different colors or patterns.

Input data confirmation button 120IB in FIG.
Is selected by a mouse operation in order to check whether or not there is an error or the like in the numerical data among the data input by the user. To determine whether the input data is incomplete,
This is performed by controlling the data suitability determination unit 22 by the control unit 17. The data propriety determining unit 22 includes, for example,
It is determined whether character data is input instead of numerical data. If there is an error, the item causing the error is displayed in the check message field 120TM. If there is no error, a message indicating that there is no error is displayed in the check message field 120TM, and the process waits until the user selects the OK button 120OB. When the user selects the OK button 120OB with the mouse, the process proceeds to step S15 in FIG.

FIG. 8 is an example of an image displayed in step S15 of FIG. In the example shown in FIG.
There is no error in the input data in the property items of the magnet roller and the magnet, and each member is arranged in a normal state. On the other hand, in the example shown in FIG. 8B, since there is an error in the characteristic item indicating the position of one magnet 101a, the two magnets 101a and 101b are displayed overlapping. As shown in FIG. 8B, when an error is found in step S15 in FIG. 5, the data input unit 11 determines the inconsistency in the image due to the error in FIG.
This is indicated to the user by a predetermined mark such as an arrow 130 shown in FIG.

In step S16 of FIG. 5, step S1
Based on the image displayed in step 5, the user determines whether or not to change the input characteristic item. The processing in steps S15 and S16 is performed by the control unit 17
Is performed by controlling the data confirmation unit 22. As shown in FIG. 8A, even when no error is found in particular, if the partial correction button 120PB or the whole correction button 120AB in the correction column of FIG.
The data at a predetermined location can be corrected. Or,
It is also possible to correct the data by directly clicking a predetermined location with a mouse. In addition, after step S14 or step S16 in FIG. 5, even when returning to step S11 to change the data to be input as the characteristic item, the previously input data is not deleted. Therefore, if the user changes only the data causing the error, the user can proceed to the next step. Such an operation is enabled by the data input unit 11 storing data once input in the storage unit 20. The cancel button 120CB shown in FIG. 6 is selected when the simulation process is stopped.

As described above, when the input of the data necessary for the analysis is completed and it is confirmed that the respective members are properly arranged, the magnetic field distribution analyzer 1 of FIG. Perform processing automatically. First, the shape of the magnet input based on the data input screen 120 shown in FIG. 6 is introduced into the finite element model generation unit 12, and the sleeve and each magnet and the magnet roller shown in FIGS. The attributes of each area of the base are set individually. The attribute set for each region is represented by a region identification flag, and mesh division for the finite element method suitable for the region is performed. Next, each material characteristic is read from the storage unit 20 storing the characteristic data of the sleeve, the magnet roller, and each magnet, and the first boundary condition is set based on the area identification flag.

The data conversion unit 13 converts the finite element model generated by the finite element model generation unit 12 into a form that can be handled by the analysis unit 15. When the data is converted into a predetermined format, the second boundary condition is set by the boundary condition setting unit 14 based on the area identification flag. The analysis unit 15 executes an analysis, that is, a calculation according to the finite element method based on the converted finite element model, the first boundary condition, and the second boundary condition. The macro unit 21 is used for the repetitive processing in each process. The processes described above are all controlled by the control unit 17 and are automatically performed sequentially.

The following is an example of the repetition processing performed by the macro unit 21. (1) The shape of each magnet is determined by the finite element model generation unit 12
(2) Setting attributes and finite element division for each area (3) Setting first and second boundary conditions

FIG. 9 shows the operation for displaying the analysis result shown as step S5 in FIG. The display of the analysis result is performed by controlling the analysis result display unit 16 by the control unit 17. Analysis unit 1 performed in step S4 of FIG.
After the analysis of the magnetic field distribution according to 5, the analysis result display unit 16
An analysis result is acquired from the analysis unit 15, and an image of the data of the analysis result is displayed. In step S21, a predetermined input screen is set on the display screen of the display unit 24 so that the user can select a form of an image for displaying the analysis result. However, a display on a specific input screen is omitted. When the user selects a desired form using the input screen, in step S22, the analysis result display unit 16
Creates an image indicating the analysis result in accordance with the selected form, and displays the image on the display screen. In step S23,
After displaying the image in one mode, the analysis result display unit 16
Requests a determination as to whether or not to perform display in another form.
If the user desires display in another form, the analysis result display unit 16 returns to step S21 and repeats the image display of step S22. If the display in another form is not desired in step S23, the display operation of the analysis result ends.

FIG. 10 shows an example of an image display form that can be selected by the user in step S21 of FIG. FIG. 10A is a graph showing the analysis results with respect to orthogonal radial and tangential components. The r component as the radial component in the magnetic field distribution on the surface of the sleeve 104 is indicated by a thick solid line, the θ component as the tangential component is indicated by a thin solid line, and the absolute value of the combined component in the θ direction and the r direction is defined as a function of θ. This is indicated by a broken line. FIG.
3B, the surface position of the sleeve 104 and the strength of the magnetic field at each position are shown in a pie chart. In this graph, the magnitudes of the radial component and the tangential component of the magnetic field at each position on the surface of the sleeve 104 are indicated by thick solid lines and thin solid lines, respectively. Further, FIG.
In the above, the analysis result is displayed as an image obtained by superimposing the shapes of the magnets 101, the sleeve 104 and the magnet roller 106, which are the respective members, and the magnetic vectors.

FIG. 11 shows the storage operation of the magnetic field distribution analyzer 1 of this embodiment shown as step S7 in FIG. This storage operation is performed by the control unit 17 controlling the data storage unit 19. In step S6 of FIG. 2, when there is an instruction from the user to save the data of the analysis result, the data saving unit 19 determines in step S31 that the user selects a data format for saving the analysis result. A predetermined input screen is set on the display screen of the display unit 24 so as to allow the user to perform the operation. However, illustration of the input screen is omitted.
When the user selects a desired storage mode using this input screen, the data storage unit 19 creates a data file corresponding to the selected mode and stores it in the storage unit 20 in step S32. After saving according to one storage format,
In step S33, the data storage unit 19 requests the user to determine whether or not to perform storage in another mode.
If the user desires to save in another form in step S33, the process returns to step S31, and the data saving unit 19 repeats the operation from step S31 to step S33 as long as the user desires to save in another form. Step S3
If it is determined in step 3 that the user does not want to save the data in another form, the operation of saving the analysis result ends.

In step S31, the user can save the analysis result in the form of an image as shown in FIGS. 10 (a) to 10 (c), for example. In this case, the data storage unit 19 causes the storage unit 20 to store the analysis result as image data. The image data indicates, for example, data having a DXF format or the like that can be used in a CAD system. Further, not only each numerical data and analysis result corresponding to each image data shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C described above, but also all data input from the input screen.
It is also possible to save the user name, date and time, etc. as an input data file.

FIG. 12 shows the display operation of the calculation process by the calculation process display section 18. The control unit 17 controls the calculation process display unit 18 to display the progress of the operation to the user during the operation shown in steps S2 to S4 of FIG. Display on the screen. The calculation process display 140 includes basic data setting 141, mesh division 142, and calculation condition setting 14.
3. The name of each calculation process such as 144 in progress is displayed on the calculation process display 140 as one progress status display window. When one calculation process is completed, a predetermined portion in the calculation process display 140 is displayed in a solid color. The example of FIG. 12 shows a state in which the processing has been completed up to the calculation condition setting 143.

As described above, in the simulation by the magnetic field distribution analyzer 1 of the present embodiment, the magnet 101
By inputting the characteristic items of the sleeve 104 and the magnet roller 106, a finite element model is generated, boundary conditions are set, and a magnetic field distribution is analyzed. by this,
The user can obtain the magnetic field distribution of the magnet roller 106 very easily. Further, in the magnetic field distribution analysis device 1, at the time of inputting the characteristic item, the data input unit 11 sets a predetermined data input screen on the display unit 24, and requests the user to input data using this screen. I have. For a predetermined characteristic item, data input can be performed by the user selecting a pattern from the parameter menu column 120PM. Therefore, the user can input data very easily, so that the time required for data input can be reduced. Also,
After the data input unit 11 completes the input of each characteristic item,
Before starting the analysis, a cross-sectional view of each member corresponding to the input specific item is displayed on the display screen of the display unit 24, and the user is requested to confirm the input data. Therefore, the user can visually judge the validity of the input data.

Further, the calculation process display section 18 displays the progress of the calculation process on the display section 24. This allows the user to easily grasp the progress of the analysis process. Even when analysis takes time,
Since the progress status is displayed, it is possible to easily grasp how long the waiting time is, and the time can be effectively used for other purposes.

The data storage unit 19 stores the data of the analysis result in a form desired by the user. Therefore, the user can save the analysis result in the form of image data, for example, and can also create an image that combines the image of the entire image forming apparatus with the image of the analysis result.

In the input of the characteristic items of the magnet in step S13 shown in FIG. 5, the input of the characteristic items is performed by selecting a pattern from the parameter menu column 120PM as shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C. Although it can be performed, the present invention is not limited to this, and a numerical value can be directly input using a keyboard as in steps S11 and S12. In step S15, if there is an error in data other than the numerical data, the data input unit 11 allows the user to select whether or not to change the data in step S16. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to return to step S11 when an error is found.

FIG. 13 shows a flowchart of a simulation performed as the second embodiment of the present invention by the magnetic field distribution analyzer 1 of FIG. The magnet to be simulated is the magnet 101 in the developing tank 100 of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, in obtaining the magnetic field distribution of the magnet roller 106, a simulation including the magnetizing process of the magnet 101 is performed, and the orientation characteristics in the magnet 101 are also taken into consideration. Therefore, since the simulation including the manufacturing process is performed, the present embodiment covers a wider range than the first embodiment.

Here, the orientation characteristics and the magnetization intensity characteristics of the magnet 101 will be described. The magnetic force of a magnet or the like is represented by a vector, like a general force.
Magnetization of the magnet 101 is performed, for example, by applying an external magnetic field from a magnetized member 200 to a magnet material 201 before molding as the magnet 101 as shown in FIG. The magnetized member 200 includes a yoke 20 as a magnetized member.
The coil 203 has a coil 203 wound therearound, and generates an external magnetic field with respect to the magnet material 201 by passing a current through the coil 203.

At this time, the orientation characteristic shown in FIG. 15A indicates the direction and magnitude of the magnetic force generated inside the magnet 101 under a predetermined reference condition (described later). Based on the orientation characteristics, the magnetic force distribution inside the magnet 101 when the conditions, for example, the energy given from the magnetized member 200 to the magnet material 201 is changed, is the magnetization intensity characteristic shown in FIG.

The magnetization characteristics of the magnet 101 as a permanent magnet are represented by an initial magnetization curve 210, a demagnetization curve 211, and minor loops 212, 213,... Shown in FIG. Minor loop 212,213, ...
Are displayed as representatives. When an external magnetic field is applied from a state where the magnet is not magnetized, the magnet is magnetized according to the initial magnetization curve 210. Assuming that the external magnetic field Hs when the magnetic flux density is saturated is set to 100%, a value expressed as a percentage of the external magnetic field Ha applied to magnetize the magnet 101 is called a magnetization rate, which indicates the strength of magnetization. That is,
Ha / Hs × 100%. External magnetic field of 100% H
When the external magnetic field is reduced by applying more than s, the demagnetization curve 21
The magnetization state changes according to 1, and even when the external magnetic field is 0, the magnetic flux density Bs does not become 0, and the spontaneous magnetization remains. After the application of the external magnetic field Ha, the spontaneous magnetization of the magnetic flux density Ba remains according to the minor loops 215 parallel to the displayed minor loops 212, 213,.

The orientation characteristics are as follows: (a) the cross-sectional shape of the magnet; (b) the initial magnetization curve and the minor loop; (c) the cross-sectional shape of the yoke; (d) the relative permeability of the yoke; ) Calculated from the value of the current supplied to the coil as the energy applied to the yoke, (f) the positional relationship between the magnet and the yoke, and (g) the magnetization rate. At this time, the shape and the positional relationship of the magnet 101 and the yoke 202 are fixed, a certain reference condition is set as the energy applied from the coil 203 to the yoke 202, the orientation characteristic is calculated, and the calculation result is stored as data. By doing so, it is possible to use the above-described calculation results of the orientation characteristics when obtaining the magnetization intensity characteristics by changing the energy applied to the yoke 202 variously.

Returning to FIG. 13, when the operation of the simulation is started, the control section 17 sets a predetermined input screen on the display section 24 for the user and controls the data input section 11 in step S41. Then, the user is requested to input whether or not to analyze the orientation characteristics. If there is an input to analyze the orientation characteristics, data input is performed on the parameters for analysis in step S42. Step S4
In 3, the control unit 17 controls each of the units 12 to 15 to analyze the orientation characteristics as the first step based on the input parameters, and to generate the orientation characteristics data. If there is an input not to analyze the alignment characteristics in step S41, in step S44, the control unit 17 stores in advance the storage unit 2
Input of parameters, data, etc. designating the orientation characteristics stored in 0 is requested, and the orientation characteristic data designated in step S45 is read from the storage unit 20.

In step S46, the control unit 17 compares the parameters and data input in step S42 or S44 with the data in step S43 or S45.
Based on the orientation characteristic data obtained in
5 to analyze the magnetization intensity characteristics as the second step, and calculate the magnetization intensity characteristics. In step S47, a magnetic field distribution is analyzed as a third step based on the magnetization intensity characteristics, and the magnetic field distribution is calculated. afterwards,
In step S48, the control unit 17 asks the user for an instruction indicating whether or not to perform another simulation by inputting another data, and based on the instruction, returns to step S41 or ends the operation.

FIG. 17 shows an example of the data input screen 220 in the operation of FIG. At the upper left of the data input screen 220, an orientation characteristic analysis instruction column 220HC is arranged as an input column for data to be input in step S41 of FIG. In the orientation characteristic analysis instruction field 220HC, the orientation calculation is performed or not performed in a so-called button method.
Is indicated. Further, the data input screen 220 includes a sleeve property item field 220SC, a magnet roller and a magnet property item field 220RC as a data input field in step S42 or step S44.
A magnet material property table 220MC and a magnetizing condition item column 220TJ are displayed. The data input screen 220 includes a numerical value check button 220SB, a shape check button 220KB, and a calculation execution button 220J for receiving a user's instruction during data input.
B and a cancel button 220CB, and a check message field 220TM and a sectional shape display window 220DW for performing a predetermined display to the user during data input.
And initial magnetization curve and minor loop display window 220B
W is displayed.

FIG. 18 shows a flowchart as a subroutine of a data input operation in the case of analyzing the orientation characteristics shown in step S42 of FIG. When the data input is started, the input to the magnet roller and magnet characteristic item field 220RC in FIG.
This is performed for the number of poles and dimensions. In step S52,
An input is made to the magnetization condition item field 220TJ.
In step S53, an initial magnetization curve and a minor loop are input. In step S54, an input is made in the sleeve characteristic item column 220SC. When the input to the characteristic item column is completed, the user can enter the numerical value check button 22
0SB is selected, and the process proceeds to step S55.

In step S55, it is confirmed whether or not the input numerical value is incomplete. If there is no defect, a shape check as described later is performed in step S56,
In step S57, it is confirmed whether to change the data. If it is to be changed, the process returns to step S51. If not, the subroutine is terminated and the process returns to the calling routine. If it is determined in step S55 that there is a defect,
The item causing the error is displayed in the check message field 220TM, and the process returns to step S51.

FIG. 19 shows a flowchart as a subroutine of a data input operation when the analysis of the orientation characteristics shown in step S44 of FIG. 13 is not performed. When data input is started, in step S61, an input to the magnet roller and magnet characteristic item field 220RC of FIG. 17 is performed for the number of poles, dimensions, and the like. In step S62, an input is made to the sleeve characteristic item column 220SC. When the input in the characteristic item field is completed, the user:
The numerical value check button 220SB is selected, and step S6
In 3, it is confirmed whether or not the input numerical value is incomplete. If there is no defect, a shape check as described later is performed in step S64, and in step S65, it is confirmed whether or not the data is changed. If it is to be changed, the procedure returns to step S61. If not, the subroutine is terminated and the procedure returns to the calling routine. If it is determined in step S63 that there is a defect, the check message field 220
The item causing the error is displayed on the TM, and the process returns to step S61.

Here, each characteristic item will be described. First, the characteristic items of the magnetization conditions will be described. As shown in FIG. 14, the magnetization of the magnet material 201 is performed by the magnetized member 200. Therefore, the characteristic items of the magnetizing condition include the number, position, shape, and yoke 2 of the magnetized members 200.
G / Yoke 2 between the 02 and the magnet material 201
02, the magnitude of the current supplied to the coil 203, and the like.

The characteristic items of the magnet 101 are as follows.
The number, position, shape, magnetization rate, material, and the like of the magnets 101. For the input of the magnet material / initial magnetization curve and the minor loop, the magnet material property table 220M
C is used. That is, “magnet 1”, “magnet 2”,..., Etc. in this table indicate specific magnet material names, and when the user selects a selection button on the left side thereof, the magnet characteristic display section Is accessed, the initial magnetization curve and the minor loop of each magnet material stored in the storage unit 20 are read in advance, and the initial magnetization curve and the minor loop display window 220BW are read.
(Magnetization characteristic display step / magnet characteristic display section). This allows the user to visually check the magnetization characteristics of the magnet material.

When storing the data of the initial magnetization curve and the minor loop for a new magnet material that does not exist in the magnet material list of the magnet material property table 220MC, the user operates the mouse to operate the magnet material property table 220MC. , And inputting predetermined data through the data input unit 11 or the like. If the data input unit 11 is provided with a device for reading recorded contents from a recording medium or a device for downloading data from a network such as a modem, a large amount of data can be input easily and quickly.

After inputting data to all of the characteristic items in step S54 of FIG. 18 or step S62 of FIG. 19, as described above, the user
In order to check whether there is an error in the numerical data, a numerical check button 220S is used with a mouse.
Select B. By this selection, the data suitability determination unit 2
Step 2 checks whether there is an error in the input numerical data. A typical error is that character data is input instead of numerical data. For example,
“1” is “I” and “0” is “O”. If it is determined in step S55 or step S63 that the numerical value is incomplete, the item causing the error is displayed in the check message column 220TM of the input data. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no error in the numerical value, the fact that there is no error is displayed in the check message column 220TM.

In this case, the data suitability judging section 22 displays that there is no error in the check message field 220TM, and then inputs the shape check button 220KB by the user.
Wait for the selection. When the user selects the shape check button 220KB by operating the mouse, the data check unit 2
Reference numeral 3 denotes a magnet material 201 and a magnetized member 200 or a magnet 101 / sleeve 104 and a magnet in the sectional shape display window 220DW in accordance with the data input to the magnetizing condition characteristic item 220TJ and the magnet roller and magnet characteristic item 220RC. Roller 1
The image showing the section of the image No. 06 is displayed (Step S in FIG. 18).
56. Step S64 in FIG. ). This display indicates whether the shape or arrangement in the input characteristic item is correct, that is, whether each member interferes and overlaps, or whether the arrangement of each member is as intended. Is performed for the user to visually confirm.

FIG. 20 shows an example of an image displayed in the shape check for the magnetization process. The magnet material is
It is plastic or rubber, and one or more of them are formed into a fan shape, a squeezing shape, or the like. The magnet roller 106 according to the present embodiment includes the fan-shaped magnet 101. The fan-shaped angle θ is 0 <θ ≦ 360 °.
The fan-shaped magnets 101 are individually magnetized. There is a case where a single magnet is formed and magnetized partially.
The magnetized member 200 is arranged on the magnet material 201 so as to form the magnet 101 in five parts. The magnetized members 200 are denoted by Y1 to Y5, and the magnets 101 are denoted by M1 to M5. If an identification symbol or an identification number is given in this way, it is easy to identify the member that caused the error (image display step).

In the example shown in FIG. 20A, there is no error in the characteristic items, and the magnetized member 200 is appropriately arranged around the magnet material 201. In the example shown in FIG. 20B, since there is an error in the characteristic item indicating the position of one magnetized member 200, Y4 and M4 are displayed overlapping. Such interference can be easily detected by the arithmetic processing on the image data by the data check unit 23, and the arrow 2
By adding a predetermined mark such as 30, a contradiction point on the image due to the error can be displayed to the user in an easily understandable manner.

After viewing the display as shown in FIG. 20, the user determines in step S57 in FIG. 18 or step S65 in FIG. 19 whether or not to change the input characteristic item. Then, if it is determined to change, step S
Returning to step 51 or step S61, if it is determined not to change, the data input operation ends, and the routine returns to the original routine that called the subroutine.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for orientation characteristic analysis shown as step S43 in FIG. The control unit 17 of FIG.
Then, the data of the magnet roller 106 and the magnet 101 and the magnetizing conditions input in step S42 of FIG. Generate a finite element model. That is, the finite element model generation unit 12 includes the magnet 101 and the magnet roller 106
And characteristic items for each member of the magnetized member 200,
An area identification flag is used, and the first
Set the boundary conditions for The area identification flag can be provided using, for example, data on attributes of the finite element model, colors, materials, and the like. After setting the first boundary condition, each member is subjected to finite element division using a mesh having a size suitable for the region.

Thereafter, in step S72 of FIG. 21, the control unit 17 controls the data conversion unit 13 to convert the finite element model into a predetermined form, controls the boundary condition setting unit 14, and sets the area identification flag. Is set as the second boundary condition. At the next step S73, the control unit 17
5 to perform a numerical analysis of the orientation characteristics by the finite element method from the finite element model and the second boundary condition obtained in step S72. In step S74, the analysis result is stored in the storage unit 20 as the orientation characteristic data, and the process returns to the calling routine.

FIG. 22 shows a flowchart as a subroutine for analyzing the magnetization intensity characteristic shown as step S46 in FIG. The control unit 17 of FIG.
In step S42 or step S4 in FIG.
Based on the data input in step 4 and the orientation characteristic data obtained in step S43 or step S45, the analysis unit 15 is controlled to perform a numerical analysis of the magnetization intensity characteristic. In step S82, the analysis result is stored in the storage unit 20 as magnetization strength characteristic data, and the process returns to the calling routine.

FIG. 23 shows a flowchart as a subroutine for magnetic field distribution analysis shown as step S47 in FIG. In step S91, the control unit 17 first controls the storage unit 20 to store data of the magnetization intensity characteristics,
The data of the characteristic item of the sleeve 104 is transmitted to the finite element model generation unit 12. In step S92, the finite element model generation unit 12 is controlled to generate a finite element model according to the data. That is, the finite element model generation unit 12 sets the characteristic item of the sleeve 104 as the region identification flag, sets the first boundary condition based on the region identification flag, and furthermore, sets the finite element model with a mesh suitable for the region of each member. Perform a split.

Thereafter, in step S93, the control unit 17
Controls the data conversion unit 13 to convert the finite element model into a predetermined form, controls the boundary condition setting unit 14,
A second boundary condition based on the region identification flag is set. In step S94, the control unit 17 controls the analysis unit 15 to perform a numerical analysis of the magnetic field distribution by the finite element method from the predetermined form of the finite element model and the second boundary condition obtained in step S93.

After the analysis in step S94 is completed, the control unit 17 controls the analysis result display unit 16 to display the analysis result on the display unit 24 in step S95. Step S9
In step 6, the user is requested to indicate whether to save the analysis result. Then, when there is an instruction to save, in step S97, the control unit 17 controls the data saving unit 19 to save the analysis result. After the end of step S97 or when instructed not to save the analysis result in step S96, the process returns to the calling source routine.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of the analysis result display operation shown as step S95 in FIG. After the analysis of the magnetic field distribution by the analysis unit 15 in step S94 in FIG. 23, the analysis result display unit 16 acquires the analysis result from the analysis unit 15 in step S101 and changes the form of the image for displaying the analysis result. A predetermined input screen is set on the display unit 24 so that the user can make a selection. Then, when the user selects a desired form using the input screen, step S102
Then, the analysis result display unit 16 creates an image according to the selected form based on the analysis result, and displays the image on the display unit 24.

In step S103, after displaying the image in one mode, the analysis result display section 16 requests the user to determine whether or not to perform the display in another mode. If the user wants to display in another form, the analysis result display unit 1
6 returns to step S101 and repeats up to step S102. If display in another form is not desired in step S103, the display operation of the analysis result ends, and the process returns to the calling source routine.

The image display modes that can be selected by the user in step S101 include, for example, various graphs and magnetic vector diagrams. FIG. 25 shows an example of display by the analysis result display unit 16. Each mode shown in FIG. 25 is the same as each mode shown in FIG. That is, FIG.
In FIG. 25A and FIG. 25B, the analysis result is displayed as a graph, while in FIG. This is shown as an image. However, FIG. 25 (c) and FIG.
Comparison with (c) shows that the direction of the magnetic vector changes inside the magnet 101, and that the orientation characteristics are taken into consideration.

Next, the operation of storing the analysis result shown as step S97 in FIG. 23 will be described. FIG. 26 shows a flowchart as a subroutine of the operation for storing the analysis result of the magnetic field distribution. When the user gives an instruction to save the analysis result in step S96 of FIG. 23, the data saving unit 19 allows the user to select a data format for saving the analysis result in step S111. Next, a predetermined input screen is set on the display unit 24. Then, when the user selects a desired form using the input screen, in step S112, the data storage unit 19 creates a data file corresponding to the selected form, and stores the data file in the storage unit 2.
Store it in 0.

After saving in one form, step S1
At 13, the data storage unit 19 requests the user to determine whether or not to perform another type of storage. If the user desires to save in another mode, the data saving unit 19 returns to Step S111 and repeats Step S112. If it is not desired to save in another form, the operation of saving the analysis result ends.

In step S111, the user can save the analysis result in the form of an image as shown in, for example, FIGS. In this case, the data storage unit 19 can cause the storage unit 20 to store the analysis result as image data. As image data, for example, DX that can be used in many CAD systems
An F format or the like can be used. FIG.
5 (a), (b) and (c), not only numerical data and analysis results corresponding to each image data, but also
It is also possible to save all data, user name, date and time, etc. input from the input screen as an input data file.

Next, the display of the calculation process by the calculation process display section 18 will be described. The control unit 17 is configured as shown in FIG.
Step S43, Step S46 and Step S3
During the operation of each step 47, the calculation process display unit 18 is controlled to display the progress of the calculation process on the display unit 24 in order to show the progress of the operation to the user. The display of the calculation process is performed, for example, in the same manner as in FIG.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the generation of the finite element model, the setting of the boundary conditions, and the numerical analysis are performed by inputting the magnetization conditions and the characteristic items of each member. Thus, the user can very easily acquire the magnetic field distribution of the magnet roller 106. In the embodiment, the orientation characteristics and the magnetization intensity characteristics of each magnet 101 are obtained.
The magnetic field distribution of the magnet roller 106 is obtained based on these characteristics.

The analysis of the magnetization intensity characteristic shown in step S46 of FIG. 13 may be performed for each magnet 101, or may be performed for all the magnets 101 at once. This analysis is preferably performed in consideration of the magnetic interaction between the magnets 101. This makes it possible to analyze the magnetization intensity characteristics more accurately.

Further, in this embodiment, after the input of each characteristic item is completed, before the analysis is started, the data confirmation unit 2
3 displays a sectional view of each member according to the input characteristic item on the display unit 24, and requests the user to confirm the input data. Therefore, the user
The validity of the input data can be visually determined. The data storage unit 19 stores the analysis result in a form desired by the user. Therefore, the user can save the analysis result in the form of image data, for example, and use the analysis result to create a desired image, for example, a combination of an image of the entire image forming apparatus and an image of the analysis result. can do. In step S42 or step S44 of FIG. 13, the user inputs the characteristic items. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The control unit 17 controls the storage unit 20 to store the data input in the past. Can be read.

In the above description of each embodiment, the analysis unit 15 analyzes the magnetic field distribution using the finite element method. However, the analysis unit 15 uses other numerical analysis methods, such as the difference method and the boundary element method. Numerical analysis can also be performed based on this. As described above, in order to execute the analysis using the difference method / boundary element method, the mesh division method in the finite element model generation unit 12, the boundary condition setting method in the boundary condition setting unit 14, and the calculation are executed. The analysis units 15 to be used may be changed for the difference method and the boundary element method.

Also, in step S22 of FIG. 9 or FIG.
In step S102, the analysis result display unit 16 creates an image corresponding to the selected form and displays it on the display screen of the display unit 24. However, the analysis result display unit 16 It can also be output to a printer or the like for printing.

Although the magnetic field distribution analyzing apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 is described as simulating the magnetic field distribution of the magnet in the image forming apparatus, the case where the magnet is used in another device such as a DC motor or a magnetic circuit of a speaker is described. The same can be applied to the simulation for the magnetic field distribution of (1). Furthermore, the concept of data input as in the present invention can also be applied to a simulation based on structural mechanics or material mechanics to analyze the mechanical strength of a structure or the like. In particular, it is preferable to apply the present invention to a simulation of a relatively simple structure such as an aluminum sash window frame.

[0135]

As described above, according to the method of the present invention, when analyzing a magnetic field distribution formed by a device having a magnet, candidates for the first parameter required for the device to be analyzed, for example, A plurality of types of shapes to be analyzed are determined in advance. On the display screen, these predetermined first parameter candidates are displayed, a desired one is selected from the displayed first parameters, and numerical data representing the characteristics of the first parameter, that is, the first parameter is displayed. By inputting the two parameters while viewing the display screen, it is possible to easily obtain an analysis result of the magnetic field distribution based on the input parameters. For example, if the orientation characteristics of the magnetic field in the magnet are unidirectional, such as a normal ferrite magnet formed by a sintering method, the magnetic field distribution characteristics can be obtained for various devices using the magnet.

Further, according to the method of the present invention, a user who inputs a parameter can compare the parameter with the image of the device on the display screen to confirm. The user
The validity of the parameters can be easily determined, and the efficiency of data processing can be improved.

Further, according to the method of the present invention, when the device is provided with a plastic magnet or a rubber magnet, the magnetic characteristics of the magnet are determined based on the orientation characteristics of the magnet particles molded together with the plastic material or the rubber material. The analysis of the magnetic field distribution generated by the magnet is performed in three steps.
In each process, multiple parameters are displayed on the display screen,
The user is requested to input predetermined parameters. In particular, in the first step, since the magnetization process when magnetizing the magnet by applying an external magnetic field is analyzed to determine the orientation characteristics, the magnetization process when molding a plastic magnet or a rubber magnet by injection molding or the like is performed. In addition, when designing the magnet, etc., it is possible to make the user's parameter input operation very easy.

According to the method of the present invention, in the first step, based on parameters input by a user,
An image of a magnetized member and a magnet for generating an external magnetic field is displayed. While displaying the identification symbols for identifying the magnetized member and the magnet on the screen, an instruction from the user indicating the change of the parameter is obtained. Since the magnetized members and magnets to be analyzed can be visually confirmed by the image, it is easy to determine the validity of the parameters and the member that has a problem, and to improve the efficiency of data processing. it can.

According to the method of the present invention, in the first step, the initial magnetization curve and the minor loop, which are the magnetization characteristics of the magnet, are displayed on the display screen, so that the material properties of the magnet to be magnetized can be visually checked. Can be caught.
The relationship between the magnet material and the magnetization characteristics can be easily grasped, the range of choice of the magnet material for obtaining a desired magnetic field distribution is widened, and the magnetization intensity can be easily selected.

Further, according to the method of the present invention, the output of the analysis result can be performed in a display form desired by the user, and the analysis result which is easy for the user to grasp can be obtained.

Further, according to the method of the present invention, the analysis result can be stored in a storage form selected from a plurality of types prepared in advance. For example, if saved as image data such as CAD data, an image is formed by combining the analysis results with the CAD data of the device to be analyzed, and the effective magnet is associated with the overall structure and characteristics of the device. Can be designed.

Further, according to the method of the present invention, parameters for a magnetic field distribution in a device having a magnet, such as a magnet roller used to transport a magnetic developer in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, can be easily input. In this way, the entire system including the photoconductor and the developing device can be effectively studied.

Further, according to the apparatus of the present invention, the user can input parameters necessary for analyzing a magnetic field distribution formed by a device having a magnet by using a numerical analysis method such as a finite element method. When performing from the data input unit, a plurality of first parameters and second parameters for determining detailed specifications of the magnet are displayed on the display unit.
The operation of the user at the time of inputting the parameter can be made very easy.

Further, according to the apparatus of the present invention, since the parameter relating to the shape of the magnet, which is the first parameter, can be finely adjusted, the degree of freedom in designing the magnet can be increased, and the efficiency of the magnet can be improved. Design can be performed.

Further, according to the apparatus of the present invention, since the image of the device is displayed on the display screen in accordance with the parameter, it is easy to determine the validity of the parameter, and the appropriate parameter is efficiently determined. be able to.

Further, according to the apparatus of the present invention, the orientation characteristics / magnetization intensity characteristics and the magnetic field distribution of the magnet are analyzed by a numerical analysis method based on the parameters representing the characteristics of the magnet and the magnetized member for applying an external magnetic field. On the display unit, a plurality of types of parameters are displayed in order to request the user to input predetermined parameters used for the analysis by the numerical analysis method to the data input unit. It can be easy.

According to the apparatus of the present invention, the images of the magnetized member and the magnet are displayed on the display unit together with the identification symbols, and the parameters input to the data input unit can be visually confirmed. Therefore, it is easy to determine a member or the like having a problem and a defect, and the efficiency of data processing accompanying the design of a magnet or the like can be improved.

Further, according to the device of the present invention, the initial magnetization curve and the minor loop of the magnet are displayed on the display unit, so that the material properties of the magnet can be visually grasped. The relationship between the magnetizing properties and the shape of the magnet required to obtain a desired magnetic field distribution can be easily grasped, the range of choice of the magnet material is expanded, and the selection of the magnetizing intensity can be easily performed.

Further, according to the apparatus of the present invention, the orientation characteristics and the magnetization intensity characteristics due to the magnetization of the magnet, which are derived as the data of the analysis result, and the magnetic field distribution of the magnetized magnet are associated with each other, and a plurality of forms are obtained. The analysis result can be saved in a selected form. By storing the analysis result of the magnetic field distribution of the magnet as image data such as CAD data, an image combining the analysis result and the image forming apparatus can be formed.
The whole system including the photoreceptor and the developing device can be effectively studied.

Further, according to the apparatus of the present invention, the parameters input to the input section are excluded when they are determined to be inappropriate, so that only analysis results based on appropriate parameters can be obtained. In addition, since the progress of the analysis in the analysis unit is displayed on the screen, the user can grasp the progress of the analysis and can effectively utilize the waiting time and the like. further,
Since the analysis result can be displayed on the screen according to the display form desired by the user, the display of the analysis result can be made easy for the user to understand.

Further, according to the medium of the present invention, a general-purpose computer such as a personal computer or a workstation is made to read a program from the medium, and the analysis of the magnetic field distribution is guided in an easy-to-understand manner in the form of an image. One parameter candidate is selected, and a second parameter, such as a numerical value, is input to the selected first parameter, so that it can be executed in a state where input by the user is easy.

Further, according to the medium of the present invention, a general-purpose computer such as a personal computer or a workstation reads the program from the medium, analyzes the magnetic field distribution, and performs a first step of obtaining the orientation characteristics by magnetizing the magnet. A second step of determining the magnetization intensity characteristics of the magnet;
Dividing a magnetic field distribution formed by the magnet into third steps, displaying a plurality of parameters on a display screen in each step,
The user is requested to input a predetermined parameter, and a magnetic analysis is performed based on the input parameter, so that the user can execute the input in an easy state.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic system configuration of a magnetic field distribution analyzer 1 used for a simulation in each embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a magnetic field distribution analysis process performed using the magnetic field distribution analyzer 1 of FIG. 1 as a simulation according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

3 is a simplified cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a developing tank in an image forming apparatus to be analyzed by the magnetic field distribution analyzer of FIG.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a method of setting a boundary condition in the magnetic field distribution analyzer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an operation of performing data input as a subroutine in step S1 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a data input screen when data is input by the operation of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a diagram specifically showing a data input screen when data is input by the operation of FIG. 5;

8 is a diagram showing an example of a display when requesting confirmation of data input in the operation of FIG. 5;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of displaying the analysis result in step S5 of FIG. 2 as a subroutine.

FIG. 10 is a graph and an image showing an example of a form displayed by the operation of displaying the analysis result of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 shows the storage of the analysis result in step S7 in FIG.
It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement performed as a subroutine.

12 is a diagram illustrating a calculation process display showing the progress of the analysis processing performed by the magnetic field distribution analyzer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a magnetic field distribution analysis process performed by using the magnetic field distribution analyzer of FIG. 1 as a simulation according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a partial cross-sectional view showing an outline of a magnetizing process targeted in the embodiment of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an outline of an orientation characteristic and a magnetization intensity characteristic of the magnet 101.

FIG. 16 is an initial magnetization curve, which is a magnetization characteristic of the magnet 101 as a permanent magnet, and minor loops 212 and 2;
It is a graph which shows 13, ... etc.

FIG. 17 is a data input screen 220 in the embodiment of FIG.
It is a figure showing the example of.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a subroutine of a data input operation in the case where the orientation characteristics are analyzed in step S42 of FIG. 13;

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of a data input operation in the case where the analysis of the orientation characteristics shown in step S44 of FIG. 13 is not performed.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image displayed in a shape check for a magnetization process in the embodiment of FIG. 13;

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for orientation characteristic analysis shown as step S43 in FIG.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a subroutine for analyzing magnetization intensity characteristics shown as step S46 in FIG. 13;

FIG. 23 is a flowchart as a subroutine for magnetic field distribution analysis shown as step S47 in FIG. 13;

24 is a flowchart as a subroutine of an operation for displaying an analysis result shown as step S95 in FIG. 23;

25 is a graph and an image showing an example of a form displayed by the operation of displaying the analysis result of FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a subroutine of an operation of storing an analysis result of a magnetic field distribution shown as step S97 in FIG. 23;

[Description of Signs] 1 Magnetic field distribution analyzer 11 Data input unit (input unit) 12 Finite element model generation unit 13 Data conversion unit 14 Boundary condition setting unit 15 Analysis unit 16 Analysis result display unit 17 Control unit 18 Calculation process display unit 19 Data storage unit (storage unit) 20 Storage unit 100 Developing tank 101 Magnet 103 Developer 104 Sleeve 106 Magnet roller 110 Analysis area 120, 220 Data input screen 140 Calculation process display 200 Magnetization member 201 Magnet material 202 Yoke 203 Coil 210 Initial magnetization curve 212,213, ... minor loop

Continuation of the front page (72) Inventor Koichi Fujita 22-22 Nagaikecho, Abeno-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka F-term (reference) 2G017 AA07 AA08 AC09 BA11 BA15 BA17 BA18 CA02 CA09 CB18 CC01 CD14

Claims (20)

[Claims] In a method of analyzing a magnetic field distribution formed in a device having a magnet, a plurality of types of first parameter candidates required for performing analysis on a device to be analyzed are determined in advance. Displaying the predetermined candidates for the first parameter on a display screen, determining a required first parameter from among the candidates, and requesting input for a plurality of second parameters that determine the characteristics of the first parameter. And analyzing the magnetic field distribution of the device based on the input first and second parameters and outputting an analysis result. 2. An image representing the device is displayed on a display screen based on the input first and second parameters, and an instruction as to whether or not there is a change in each of the parameters is obtained together with the display. The method according to claim 1, wherein when there is an instruction, the parameter is changed according to the instruction, and an image representing the device is displayed based on the changed parameter. 3. An apparatus provided with a magnet which is formed while applying an external magnetic field. In a method for analyzing a magnetic field distribution for predicting a magnetic field distribution by the magnet, a magnetizing process when applying an external magnetic field to magnetize the magnet is analyzed. A first step of determining the orientation characteristics by performing the following steps: a second step of determining the magnetization intensity characteristics of the magnet based on the analysis results of the orientation characteristics; and forming the magnet based on the analysis results of the magnetization intensity characteristics. A third step of obtaining a magnetic field distribution, wherein each of the first to third steps displays a plurality of parameters on a display screen, and requests the user to input predetermined parameters. A method for analyzing a magnetic field distribution, comprising a parameter inputting step of performing a magnetic analysis based on input parameters. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first step displays an image of the magnetized member and the magnet for generating the external magnetic field based on a parameter input by a user, and identifies the magnetized member and the magnet. 4. The method according to claim 3, further comprising an image display step of generating and displaying on a screen and requesting a user to indicate an instruction to change a parameter. 5. The method according to claim 3, wherein the first step includes a step of displaying a magnetization characteristic, which is a magnetization characteristic of the magnet, and a minor loop on a display screen. 4. The method for analyzing a magnetic field distribution according to 4. 6. An output of the analysis result is performed by displaying it as an image on a display screen, and a display form at the time of the display can be selected from a plurality of display forms prepared in advance. The method for analyzing a magnetic field distribution according to any one of claims 1 to 5. 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the output of the analysis result is stored and stored, and the storage mode can be selected from a plurality of storage modes prepared in advance. 6. The method for analyzing a magnetic field distribution according to any one of 6. 8. The method for analyzing a magnetic field distribution according to claim 1, wherein when analyzing the magnetic field distribution, a progress of the analysis is displayed on a display screen. . 9. The magnetic field according to claim 1, wherein the device is an electrophotographic image forming apparatus that is used for conveying a magnetic developer. How to analyze the distribution. 10. A magnetic field distribution analysis device for analyzing a magnetic field distribution formed in a device having a magnet, comprising: a plurality of predetermined plurality of predetermined devices required for performing analysis on a device to be analyzed. A display unit for holding candidates for the first parameter and displaying the candidates for the first parameter on a display screen; and an input for determining and instructing a required first parameter from the plurality of displayed first parameters. And a data input unit for inputting a plurality of second parameters for determining characteristics of the first parameter, and a magnetic field distribution of the device is set in advance based on each parameter input to the data input unit. A magnetic field distribution analysis device, comprising: an analysis unit configured to calculate by an analysis according to a program. 11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the data input unit is capable of finely adjusting the second parameter when inputting a second parameter for the shape specified by the first parameter. An apparatus for analyzing a magnetic field distribution as described. 12. A screen of the display unit based on first and second parameters input to the data input unit,
11. The apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising a data confirmation unit that controls the data input unit to display an image of the device and prompts the data input unit to input whether there is a change in the parameter, and confirms the parameter. An apparatus for analyzing a magnetic field distribution according to claim 11. 13. A user is requested to select a desired storage mode from a plurality of types of storage modes provided in advance in order to individually store the data of the analysis results by the analysis unit in association with each other. 13. The magnetic field distribution analysis apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising a data storage unit configured to store the analysis result in a saved storage format. 14. An orientation characteristic of a magnet is analyzed based on characteristics of a magnet formed while applying an external magnetic field and a magnetized member generating an external magnetic field, and a magnetization intensity of the magnet is calculated based on the analysis. In the magnetic field distribution analysis device for predicting the magnetic field distribution of a magnet based on the analysis result of the magnetization intensity, the orientation characteristics / magnetization intensity characteristics and the magnetic field distribution of the magnet are determined based on parameters representing the characteristics of the individual magnetized members and the magnet. An analysis unit for analyzing by a numerical analysis method; a display unit for displaying characters and images; displaying a plurality of types of parameters on the display unit; and inputting predetermined parameters used for analysis by the numerical analysis method to a user. A magnetic field distribution analysis device, comprising: 15. An image of a magnetized member and a magnet is created and displayed on the display unit based on the parameters input to the data input unit, and an identification symbol for identifying the magnetized member and the magnet is created. 15. The magnetic field distribution analysis apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising a data confirmation unit that is displayed on a display unit and requests a user to indicate whether or not the parameter has been changed. 16. The magnetic field distribution analyzing apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising a magnet characteristic display section for displaying an initial magnetization curve and a minor loop of the magnet on the display section. 17. The analysis unit derives, as an analysis result by the numerical analysis method, an orientation characteristic and a magnetization intensity characteristic due to magnetization of a magnet, and a magnetic field distribution of a magnetized magnet, and associates the analysis results with each other. In order to save individually, it is possible to save in a plurality of forms prepared in advance, ask the user to select the desired form via the display unit, and analyze the analysis results in the selected form 2. The data storage device according to claim 1, further comprising a data storage unit for storing the data.
An apparatus for analyzing a magnetic field distribution according to any one of claims 4 to 16. 18. A data suitability judging unit for judging suitability of a parameter input to the data input unit and excluding a negated parameter, and a calculation process of displaying the progress of analysis in the analysis unit on the display unit. A display unit, and an analysis result display unit for displaying a result analyzed by the analysis unit on a display unit in a display mode desired by the user, and a control for controlling at least one of the units. 18. The apparatus for analyzing a magnetic field distribution according to claim 10, further comprising a unit. 19. When analyzing a magnetic field distribution formed in a device having a magnet, a plurality of types of first parameter candidates required for performing analysis on a device to be analyzed are determined in advance. Displaying the predetermined plurality of first parameter candidates on a display screen, determining a necessary first parameter from the displayed plurality of first parameters, and determining a characteristic of the first parameter. A computer-readable program storing a program for causing a computer to execute an analysis method of obtaining an input of a parameter, analyzing a magnetic field distribution of the device based on the input first and second parameters, and outputting an analysis result. Medium. 20. An apparatus provided with a magnet for forming while applying an external magnetic field, and analyzing a magnetic field distribution for predicting a magnetic field distribution, analyzing a magnetization process when applying an external magnetic field to magnetize the magnet. A second step of obtaining a magnetization intensity characteristic of the magnet based on the analysis result of the orientation characteristic, and a magnetic field formed by the magnet based on the analysis result of the magnetization intensity characteristic. A third step of obtaining a distribution, wherein each of the first to third steps displays a plurality of parameters on a display screen and requests the user to input predetermined parameters. Computer-executable program for causing a computer to execute a magnetic field distribution analysis method including a parameter inputting step of performing a magnetic analysis based on the set parameters. Data-readable media.