Quality Engineering Associates, Inc.

Ming-Kai Tse

Michael H Wollowitz

Peter F Hays

David J Forrest

A test system and data analysis procedure are provided for use in electrophotographic printing with a whole set of characteristics determined to be important for efficiency and high quality images. The test system and data analysis procedure characterize dielectric relaxation processes in materials in terms of charge transport parameters that may include intrinsic charge density, charge mobility, and charge injection from the contact surfaces. The materials may include photoconductive drums or belts, charging rolls, developer rolls, intermediate transfer belts and output media such as paper transparencies or textiles. The apparatus consists of a charging source, a voltage detector and a current detector in an open-circuit mode of measurement. The configuration closely simulates the actual application of the materials in electrophotography and thus, can yield information more relevant for the applications.

Semi-insulating material testing and optimization

An automated test system is provided for evaluating characteristics of photoreceptors used in the electrophotographic process. The test system includes a dielectric material support adapted to receive said dielectric material one or more electrodes adapted to apply electrical energy from a source to a two dimensional area adjacent the support for storage by the dielectric material and a sensor for the electrical energy stored in the dielectric material and providing an output representation of the dielectric relaxation of the material in response to the stored energy over the two dimensional area. This test system provides advantages over conventional Electrostatic Charge Decay (ECD) methods by eliminating corona pre-charging and a moving detector when a full-length array is used. Also, this test system utilizes a lower cost current detector in comparison to conventionally used voltage detectors.

Automated stationary/portable test system for applying a current signal to a dielectric material being tested

Palm based photosensor instrumentation

An automated test system is provided for evaluating characteristics of photoreceptors used in the electrophotographic process. The test system includes a retainer for holding the photoreceptor, typically in the form of a cylinder or drum, high voltage power supplies, a charging device, light sources, and non-contact electrostatic surface potential probes, the entirety of the test system enclosed in a light-proof cabinet. A control unit responsive to user defined parameters automatically performs tests for drum substrate surface cleanliness, photoreceptor layer thickness, physical defects, and electrophotographic properties. Linear and circular scanning and fixed adaptable systems are shown.

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Lexington, MA, United States of America

Ming-Kai Tse