Device for measuring the ridges on the surface of a rotating body

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for measuring elevations on the surface of a rotating body, which is designed as a drum, roller, sleeve or plate for a graphics industry machine, and which has a first motor and a measuring device, the first motor being used to rotate the rotating body about an axis of rotation. For contactless measurement, the measuring device is part of a mount for printing plates or is integrated into the mount for printing plates; and the measuring device enables measurement and inspection of the stamp, thereby on the one hand checking the quality of the installation and on the other hand determining diameter differences. Preferably, the measuring device also includes a reference object for contactless measurement, such as an axially parallel tensioned metal wire; and a second motor and, if necessary, a further second motor to be able to adjust the measuring device and / or the reference object perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The device enables rapid and high-precision measurement of elevations, such as flexographic printing dots.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a device for measuring elevations on the surface of a rotating body.

[0002] The invention is in the field of graphic arts technology, in particular in the field of measuring rotating bodies, such as cylinders, rollers, sleeves (preferably laser-etched flexographic printing sleeves), or plates, preferably flexographic printing plates mounted on sleeves. During the measurement, the ridges of the rotating body are detected. Background Art

[0003] Document DE 33 02 798 A1 discloses a method for detecting surface coverage or printed areas and non-printed areas in combination with register presetting in order to shorten the setup time.

[0004] Document DE102014215648A1 discloses a rotary printing press having: a central counter-pressing cylinder, which is rotatable about a rotation axis; at least one (preferably a plurality of) printing layers (Druckdeck), which are arranged around the central counter-pressing cylinder, wherein each printing layer has a printing roller provided with a reference mark; and at least one sensor for detecting the reference mark. The sensor is arranged on a separate rotating mechanism, by means of which the sensor can be rotated about the rotation axis.

[0005] Document EP3251850 discloses a so-called mounter for determining the registration data of a sleeve provided with a die and registration marks of a flexographic printing press, the mounter comprising: a shaft on which the sleeve can be fixed; a detection unit (e.g. a 3D scanner) for scanning the surface contour of the die; and a computing unit, in which the scanned surface contour of the die is assigned to a stored rated contour and the registration data is calculated based on this assignment with reference to the registration marks.

[0006] Document DE102006060464A1 discloses a rotary printing press, comprising a plurality of ink layers, at least one of which has a roller (e.g. a flexographic impression roller or an anilox roller), and an adjustment system for adjusting the position of the roller relative to at least another component of the printing press. At least one ink layer has a control unit, which is arranged to receive and process data about the roller, which describe the spatial relationship between the topography of the surface of the specific roller and / or the printing pattern and the reference mark formed on the roller. In addition, the control unit is configured to drive the adjustment system in coordination with these adjustment data, so as to adjust the roller to an optimized position for printing without or at least with reduced waste. The determination or scanning of the topography of the roller surface can be achieved by means of a moving laser head (for laser triangulation or laser interferometry). The goal here is to determine the rated line pressure for the pre-adjustment (or register adjustment) and to avoid the generation of waste based on this. The adjustment values ​​used for this purpose can be stored on a radio frequency identification chip. It is also possible to determine the printing and non-printing areas. The same document DE202007004717U1 discloses rolling scanning as a sensor or measurement based on the shielding principle by means of a laser micrometer as a sensor as an alternative to scanning topography. The same document CN102381013A discloses a method for adjusting a plate cylinder and a pressure roller in a rotary printing press, comprising the following steps: rotatably mounting the plate cylinder; scanning the circumferential surface of the plate cylinder; deriving and storing data for adjusting the plate cylinder; rotatably mounting the pressure roller; scanning the circumferential surface of the pressure roller; deriving and storing data for adjusting the pressure roller from the appearance of the pressure roller surface; and storing the adjustment data; mounting the plate cylinder and the pressure roller in the printing press; and adjusting the plate cylinder and the pressure roller according to the adjustment data.

[0007] The so-called "register and makeready" device sold by the company Bobst is called The systems work with scanning rollers which contact the printing plate to be measured. However, there is a customer desire to measure the printing plate in a contactless manner and thus without damage in all cases, even in the case of very fine printing dots.

[0008] Document WO 2010146040 A1 discloses a similar method, in which a camera and an evaluation algorithm in the form of a setpoint-actual value comparison (measured radius versus theoretical radius) are used.

[0009] Document WO2008049510A1 discloses a method and a device for checking the quality of at least one impression cylinder. This allows the necessary quality assurance measures to be carried out automatically, i.e. the impression cylinder is transferred to a testing device, in which the surface of the impression cylinder is optically scanned in an automated manner and the diameter or circumference of the impression cylinder and / or the surface roughness of its surface are measured by means of an automated measuring device. For example, the printed image is checked based on its ink density.

[0010] In printing with flexible printing plates or printing sleeves (liners) that are colored by an anilox roller and mounted on a sleeve, a number of variable parameters are known: changes in the size parameters of the anilox roller (i.e. its circumference); changes in the strength of the printing plate in relation to the working width and in the unwinding; changes in the sleeve in relation to the working width and in the roundness; eccentricity; changes in the mounting of the printing plate by means of adhesive tape. The working pressure between the anilox roller and the impression cylinder (with sleeve, rubber surface and printing plate) and between the impression cylinder and the counter cylinder (with the printing material located therebetween) and thus the printing result can be influenced by these changes and in particular impaired.

[0011] DE102020111341A1 disclosed later discloses a device for measuring the ridges of the surface of a rotating body and provides an improvement, which in particular enables rapid and high-precision measurement of the ridges of the rotating body, such as the flexible printing dots of a flexographic printing plate. In this document, a device for measuring the ridges of the surface of a rotating body is disclosed, the rotating body being configured as a cylinder, roller, sleeve or plate for a printing press, such as a flexographic printing plate mounted on a sleeve, the device having a first motor and a measuring device, the first motor being used to rotate the rotating body about a rotation axis, the device being characterized in that, for contactless measurement, the measuring device comprises at least one radiation source and at least one area camera. A measuring station can be provided, which can be part of a so-called mounter.

[0012] Therefore, a variety of systems for measuring are known. Nevertheless, the market constantly demands innovations, in particular in order to be able to produce higher quality printed products more quickly and more cost-effectively. The known systems cannot always fully meet this demand. Summary of the invention

[0013] The object of the present invention is therefore to propose a solution which is improved compared to the prior art and which in particular allows rapid and high-precision measurement of elevations of a rotating body, for example flexographic printing dots of a flexographic printing plate.

[0014] The solution of the present invention:

[0015] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. Advantageous and therefore preferred further embodiments of the invention are apparent from the optional embodiments as well as from the description and the drawings.

[0016] The present invention proposes a device for measuring the raised portions of the surface of a rotating body (e.g. a flexible printing plate mounted on a sleeve) configured as a cylinder, roller, sleeve or plate of a graphic industrial machine, in particular a printing press, comprising a first motor for rotating the rotating body around an axis of rotation and a measuring device, the device being characterized in that the measuring device is part of a mount for the printing plate or is integrated into the mount for the printing plate for contactless measurement; and the measuring device makes it possible to measure and inspect the stamp, thereby on the one hand checking the mounting quality and on the other hand determining the diameter difference.

[0017] The invention allows fast and high-precision measurement by measuring contactlessly and in the installer. Contactless measurement enables very high (measurement) accuracy and (measurement) speed; measurement in the installer enables further improvement of accuracy and speed.

[0018] In the present application, "mounter" refers to a machine (or apparatus) in which a printing plate, preferably a flexible printing plate, is mounted on, in particular bonded to, a surface. The surface may be a roller or a sleeve for a roller. Mounting may be performed manually or automatically.

[0019] Furthermore, another feature of the present invention is that, for contactless measurement, the measuring device comprises i) at least one radiation source and ii) at least one area camera or at least one line camera.

[0020] Area cameras differ from line cameras in that not only one-dimensional, light-sensitive line sensors but also two-dimensional, light-sensitive area sensors are present, wherein the area sensor preferably comprises a plurality of line sensors. An area camera can be formed from several, for example adjacent, line cameras.

[0021] The surface camera can be a plurality of surface cameras arranged side by side. The surface camera can be arranged fixedly or movably in the axial direction (preferably in the horizontal direction) (relative to the roller or the supporting roller or its axis) and / or the surface camera can be arranged fixedly or movably perpendicular to the axis (preferably in the vertical direction).

[0022] The use of an area camera allows very fast and at the same time very precise measurements. Alternatively, a line camera can be used.

[0023] The device according to the invention enables contactless measurement and advantageously avoids possible damage to the object to be measured, in particular to the soft printing points of a flexographic printing plate. Furthermore, the measurement by means of radiation, in particular electromagnetic radiation, such as light, allows very fine measurements, which is advantageous in particular when measuring fine printing points of a flexographic printing plate. Another advantage of contactless measurement is the measurement of sleeves or so-called bushings with or without a mounted printing plate, which have a sticky surface. In contrast, the measurement of such surfaces with contact measuring systems is either impossible or very difficult.

[0024] In use, such a device allows, for example, the automatic measurement of a mounted printing plate or a mounted flexographic printing plate or a printing sleeve or a flexographic printing sleeve in a mount and thus the automatic presetting of a correspondingly optimized operating pressure between the cylinders and / or rollers involved in the printing process (e.g. anilox roller, impression cylinder with printing plate and counter cylinder). A uniform printed image is obtained at the optimized operating pressure. Advantageously, downtimes and start-up waste can be reduced or even avoided by presetting, for example in the case of a change in print order.

[0025] This device also allows the optimized working pressure, the optimized printing speed and / or the optimally adapted dryer power to be dynamically adjusted in relation to the production speed during use, so that high-quality printed products can be produced industrially (automatically, with little personnel input and advantageously).

[0026] In the absence of data technology networking and / or in the case of a large spatial distance between the prepress phase (e.g. the production of flexographic printing plates) and the printing phase (e.g. printing with a flexographic printing press), the device of the present invention can be used locally to: quickly and accurately generate and provide all values ​​required for local high-quality printing (e.g. operating pressure, printing speed and / or dryer power).

[0027] Further description of the invention and its environment

[0028] It is already known to mount printing templates or printing plates for flexographic printing on corresponding supports, more precisely round sleeves or cylinders (cylindrical supports), using corresponding mounting machines (mounters). More precisely, the mounters enable precise mounting of one or more printing plates for flexographic printing on sleeves with an adhesive surface or with a double-sided adhesive material, which in turn adheres to the surface of the support.

[0029] Regardless of the type of cylindrical carrier used, one of the most important technical issues when attaching the printing template to an adhesive surface is that the printing template should be positioned on the carrier precisely and correctly radially and axially relative to a reference object. The mounting should be carried out without air inclusions and at right angles.

[0030] —Known machines ("installers") usually include one or preferably two or more cameras, which are directed from above at the printing plate to be installed and thus enable or support error-free installation; preferably there are two cameras, which detect at least two marks (e.g. micromarks) on the printing plate. These marks can be prominent points or prominent crosshairs. The detected marks can be displayed side by side for the user on a display. The detected marks can be used when manually or automatically orienting the printing plate to be installed. In this case, the orientation of the printing plate is manually or automatically changed on the sleeve before installation so that the two detected marks are oriented correctly to each other, for example on a predetermined orientation axis. If the two detected marks are not yet oriented correctly, an alarm can be issued. In this way, orientation errors of the printing plate when it is installed on the sleeve can be advantageously prevented.

[0031] —When mounting the printing plate on the cylindrical carrier, axial deviations as well as circumferential deviations can occur. These can be assembly errors such as air inclusions, eccentric cylindrical carriers with small diameter fluctuations, thickness fluctuations in the printing plate, thickness fluctuations in the foam tape, axial and radial misalignment of the printing plate, which together run as a printing task.

[0032] - The completely mounted printing sleeve then arrives at the printing press.

[0033] In order to design the workflow as simply, briefly and efficiently as possible, it is useful to integrate a measuring device in the setter. Ideally, the die is measured and checked simultaneously with the setting in the setter, so that on the one hand the setting quality is checked and on the other hand the diameter difference is determined and communicated to the subsequent process, i.e. the flexographic printing press, so that the latter can compensate for the different diameters in the working width autonomously in order to calculate the ideal printing position. It is also important to communicate this position to the printing press based on features on the cylindrical plate carrier so that the latter positions the cylinder radially and axially correctly in order to start registering right from the start.

[0034] —In addition, the customer wants possible errors to be displayed visually, preferably directly on the installer, after the printing plate has been mounted and after the mounting quality has been checked. This is done on the one hand by means of a screen, on which errors or particles or hairs of the printing plate, bushing are displayed or directly on the printing bushing. To this end, the operator taps on the error, for example on the screen, and then moves the cross laser system to the position on the bushing. To this end, a laser line is projected along the working width and a line laser is moved in the radial direction to the error location, which projects a line vertically (90°) and is simultaneously equipped with a cleaning roller, so that the cross is projected exactly in the center of the error. Instead of a cross, other markings, such as dots, can also be produced.

[0035] The operator can check the area and the machine can perform error correction, either manually or automatically, for example using a cleaning roller. Due to the fact that the installer can accurately identify the circumference, gentle cleaning of the surface can be performed using flexible, soft, sticky rollers.

[0036] One of the market requirements is flexographic printing and the ability to print independently or autonomously in the future after the printing plate has been installed, as well as reducing press downtimes and start-up waste, ideally to zero, especially when changing print jobs.

[0037] - In addition, the data obtained by the invention (which are communicated to the flexographic printing press) are used to intervene in its process during production and the printing press (or the operator) thus uses the obtained data (e.g. dynamic printing preparation) to adjust the optimal speed and drying power in order to ensure the best printing result, but at the same time produce the printed product as energy-efficiently as possible.

[0038] — In addition, one of the market requirements is to check the runout accuracy and thus the quality assurance of the sleeves, more precisely the intermediate sleeves / bridge sleeves or printing sleeves (so-called bushings) during production and processing, since the runout has a decisive influence on the printing quality. In other words, the mounting device (mounter) can carry out a quality check.

[0039] Furthermore, one of the market requirements is to replace the printers who are missing from the labour market by means of automation and thus to replace the work requiring the set-up of printing technology by means of automated systems or to relieve the burden on the printing press operators.

[0040] Compared to offset or digital printing, the data flow from the prepress stage to the printing press is significantly more complex in flexographic or gravure printing. In this case, the prepress stage and the printing press are usually separated. This means that the prepress company provides the impressions to different printing houses and the printing houses receive the impressions from different prepress companies. In addition, the prepress stage and the printing stage are not "under the same roof" and therefore cannot be simply networked via a network cable, that is, the prepress data cannot be directly provided to the printing press. The present invention and its further developments are aimed at precisely this and provide the required prepress data to the printing press.

[0041] - Currently no interface is known that provides prepress data directly to flexographic or gravure printing presses. A possible solution here is the industry standard JDF or XJDF, which has been successfully established as a cross-manufacturer interface in digital printing or offset printing. However, it is not yet foreseeable when JDF or XJDF data can be read and processed directly by flexographic and gravure printing presses and how this information can be used for setup. However, the present invention and its further developments make it possible to process JDF or XJDF data.

[0042] The invention and its further developments are a useful supplement to so-called DiDs (“double ink deck”) or double printing units, ie printing units comprising two printing units.

[0043] - The current prior art has the disadvantage that mechanical scanning is performed, which is undesirable for customers because there is a risk of damaging the very fine anilox dots on the printing plate. This will become more critical if higher resolution printing plates with finer dot sizes are used in the future. Mechanical scanning is not advantageous even in the case of sticky surfaces.

[0044] Furthermore, the prior art does not provide information about the dot density, which is important for dynamic print preparation or print feed, so that more automation can be implemented with the printing press. By determining the dot density, the ink consumption and thus the dryer power can also be calculated and automatically adjusted in hot air operation or UV operation.

[0045] - In addition, the so-called free areas, i.e. non-printing areas, can be precisely detected using a high-resolution camera system. This can reduce or even eliminate problems typical for flexographic printing, i.e. channel shocks or so-called bounces or shakes during the printing run. The detection of free areas also offers the possibility of significantly saving energy, for example by switching off LEDs in a targeted manner in areas that do not need to be dried. This saves energy and increases the service life of the LEDs.

[0046] - When manually adjusting the register controller, even trained operators can make mistakes, which can result in defective products / waste. By spatially resolving the register marks on the printing plate, incorrect configuration of the register controller will no longer be possible in the future, because the printing press can now do this autonomously using previously detected data.

[0047] Furthermore, there are currently no known systems for checking the print quality (e.g. by spectral online measurement) and information about the location or measurement position in flexographic printing. According to the invention, the quality position in the print can be determined and automatically communicated to the printing press or the quality control system.

[0048] —The present invention provides significantly higher value in the direction of automation and improved user experience. The system not only provides the setting of the ideal printing point (which is carried out contactlessly according to the present invention), but also goes deeper into the flexographic printing process: for example, using dynamic printing preparation or automated setting of printing feed, dryer, register adjustment device, and also alleviates or even solves typical problems of flexographic plates. In addition, ink consumption can be estimated and energy costs can be reduced if necessary. Another positive point is to locate the measurement area for printing inspection system or quality system. In other words, the present invention can predict data for the flexographic printing process and thus improve efficiency, reduce costs and reduce risks in the printing plant.

[0049] Two operating modes for the present invention are described exemplarily:

[0050] 1) Quality assurance of sleeve

[0051] The runout of the printing sleeve and the adapting sleeve is checked and, if necessary, recorded or indicated. If a predetermined limit value is exceeded, a notification is issued. For this purpose, the sleeve is pushed onto the mounter or its receptacle for the sleeve, detected and measured, and the result is displayed and / or stored after the measurement is completed. The mounter can indicate the detected faulty position.

[0052] 2) Plate topography measurement and dot density measurement

[0053] i) After the printing plate has been mounted on the printing sleeve, the printing sleeve is first identified by a unique number. This can be done by a barcode, QR code or RFID, NFC, etc.

[0054] ii) The actual scanning process is then initiated, which detects the exact diameter or radius very accurately at the final or limited location, but over the entire width of the printing sleeve.

[0055] iii) After the scanning process, an algorithm is implemented which finds the best settings for the printing settings. If the settings are outside the tolerance range, a notification or alarm is issued.

[0056] iv) In addition, the free space or free surface on the printing plate is evaluated using suitable sensors and the position of the register marks in the coordinate system is detected. The distribution of the dot density of the entire printing plate is determined by a scanning system and graded, and the register marks and quality measurement areas are located. The results of the algorithm are then written into a file that can be read by the printing press.

[0057] v) The device does not necessarily have to be located in the direct vicinity of the printing press, but can also be located in another room (offline measurement).

[0058] vi) The measuring instrument provides data as a server or solution. The printer is able to process the data of the server or cloud.

[0059] vii) After the measuring process, the printing sleeve is removed and provided to the printing press and installed in the provided printing unit. After the installation process is completed, the printing press reads the unique number of the sleeve and obtains the associated data provided by the device. The printing unit / printing press processes the data for the printing sleeve and performs the settings. In this case, the anilox roller, which is also provided in an identifiable manner in the printing unit, is preferably also taken into account in the setting values. The important characteristic variables are provided to the output device purely as information, if necessary.

[0060] Further aspects of the present invention:

[0061] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that an error is detected during the inspection of the assembly quality.

[0062] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that the detected error is displayed visually on the mounter.

[0063] A preferred further development of the present invention may be characterized in that the error is displayed on a screen.

[0064] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that the error is displayed on the rotating body.

[0065] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that a laser is provided which produces a laser marking on the surface of the rotating body at the faulty position.

[0066] A preferred further development of the invention may be characterized in that the laser marking is a laser dot or a laser cross.

[0067] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that a cleaning roller is provided which carries out error correction.

[0068] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that the cleaning roller is flexible, soft and adhesive.

[0069] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that the determined diameter difference is communicated to the flexographic printing press, so that the latter independently compensates for the different diameters across the working width in order to thereby calculate the ideal printing position.

[0070] A preferred further embodiment of the present invention can be characterized in that the measuring device includes a reference object for contactless measurement. The reference object can preferably be a tensioned metal wire (axially parallel to the rotating body). When measuring the ridges of the surface, the reference object is used as a reference. The reference object or at least its (axially parallel) contour can be detected together by the surface camera. In the case of the preferred application of multiple adjacent surface cameras, the images of the individual cameras can be advantageously oriented to each other with the aid of the reference object or its corresponding imaging (in the camera image). Therefore, high-precision and therefore time-consuming orientation of the camera is not required. Another advantage is obtained in the following way, namely: when using and detecting the reference object together, the amount of data to be processed can be significantly reduced.

[0071] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that a second motor is present, which enables the measuring device to be adjusted perpendicularly to the axis of rotation.

[0072] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that the second motor adjusts (preferably not only the measuring device but also preferably the reference object) perpendicularly to the axis of rotation.

[0073] A preferred further development of the present invention may be characterized in that a further second motor adjusts the reference object perpendicularly to the rotation axis. The further second motor is not the aforementioned second motor, ie, there are two independent second motors.

[0074] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that the radiation source, in particular the light source, irradiates, in particular illuminates, at least one region of the surface.

[0075] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that the reference object is parallel to the axis of rotation, in particular does not move during the measurement. The reference object can be arranged fixed in place, for example a wire can be tensioned fixed in place at its two ends.

[0076] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that the reference object is a linear object, which is stretched parallel to the axis of rotation; or the reference object is an object with an edge, or a beam. The object with an edge can be a knife-shaped object. The edge of the edge or the beam serves as a reference line for the reference object.

[0077] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that the reference object is a tensioned string, or a tensioned metal wire, or a tensioned carbon fiber. Preferably, a tensioned metal wire is used. The tensioned metal wire has shown in a large number of tests to be a feasible and sufficiently accurate technical solution. Possible vibrations of the metal wire during the measurement can be compensated in an algorithmic manner. In a slightly less preferred application of the above-mentioned knife or beam, it may be necessary to compensate for thermal changes (expansion or thermal expansion and contraction) in the structure. This compensation by algorithmic technology and therefore the use of metal wires are preferred due to the low cost.

[0078] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that a third motor is present, which moves the radiation source, in particular the light source, and the camera parallel to the axis of rotation. The radiation source, in particular the light source, can form a structural unit with the camera, in particular be integrated into the camera.

[0079] A preferred further embodiment of the invention may be characterized in that the measuring device comprises at least one reflector. The reflector may extend over the axial length of the carrier roller. The reflector may be arranged in a fixed position. The reflector may be a foil that produces specular reflection or produces scattered light (white noise).

[0080] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that the camera records at least one common image, image sequence or common film of an axial region of the contour of the rotating body and the same axial region of a reference object or its contour, in particular its contour facing the contour of the rotating body. A further advantage results from the fact that the amount of data to be processed can be significantly reduced in the use and joint detection of the reference object, preferably its contour. The (radial) distance between the elevation (or its contour) and the reference object (or its contour facing it) which is recognizable in the image can be used for the calculation of the (radial) height of the elevation of the stamp based on digital image processing.

[0081] A preferred further development of the invention can be characterized in that a computer is present, which evaluates the images, the image sequence or the film and determines the radial spacing between the elevations of the surface and the axis of rotation. The image sequence or the film can include, for example, 1 or up to 10 or up to 100 images per 1 mm of the circumference of the rotating body. The resolution in the axial direction can be between 10,000 pixels and 100,000 pixels, for example 1,280 pixels times 30 cameras, i.e. 38,400 pixels.

[0082] It can be provided that so-called KI techniques are used. This KI technique can be used together with or independently of data evaluation of large data volumes (large surfaces to be measured and high resolution), for example, in the case of determining feed values ​​for the AS and BS print feed. This KI technique can be learned based on data evaluations that have already been carried out.

[0083] The features of the present invention, the further solutions of the present invention and the embodiments of the present invention can also constitute advantageous further solutions of the present invention in any combination with each other. In addition, the further solutions of the present invention can have individual features or feature combinations disclosed in the above-mentioned "technical field" and other paragraphs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0084] The present invention and its preferred further embodiments are further explained below with reference to the drawings by means of preferred embodiments. Corresponding features are provided with the same reference numerals in the drawings. In the drawings:

[0085] Figures 1 to 5 : Views showing preferred embodiments of the device of the present invention and details thereof. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0086] Figure 1 The cross section of the measuring station 2 shows a rotatable support cylinder 1, a sleeve 3 received thereon and a (so-called) "mount" received thereon and fixed to the sleeve 3 preferably by means of an adhesive tape 4 (or alternatively by means of an adhesive coating of the sleeve), a printing plate 5 to be measured at least in terms of its topography as a rotating body 6. Alternatively, a preferably laser-etched printing sleeve can be measured on the support cylinder.

[0087] In order to rotate the carrier cylinder during the measurement, a motor 7 can be present in the measuring station. The measuring station can be part of a so-called "mounter" (in which the printing plate is mounted, in particular bonded, on the carrier sleeve) or can be integrated into the "mounter". The measuring station or the mounter can be arranged independently of the printing press 8, which is provided with at least one printing mechanism 9 for the printing plate 5 and a dryer 10 for printing and drying a preferably web-shaped printing material 11. The printing press is preferably a flexographic printing press and the printing plate is therefore preferably a flexible stamp, for example with a diameter of 106 mm to 340 mm. The dryer is preferably a hot air dryer and / or an ultraviolet dryer and / or an electron beam dryer and / or an infrared dryer. The sleeve can be pushed onto the carrier cylinder from the side. The carrier cylinder can have openings in its circumference, from which compressed air can be ejected for expanding the sleeve and for generating an air cushion during the push. The sleeve with the printing plate can be removed from the measuring instrument after the measurement and pushed onto the impression cylinder of the printing mechanism in the printing press. As an alternative to a pneumatic tensioning system, a hydraulic tensioning system can also be used.

[0088] The calibration of the measuring station 2 can be carried out with the aid of the measuring ring 12 on the carrier roller 1. Alternatively, the measuring sleeve or the carrier roller itself can be used for the calibration.

[0089] The following figures show the device of the present invention (see Figure 2c ) for contactlessly measuring elevations 13 of a surface 14 of a rotating body 6, which is designed as a cylinder, roller, sleeve or plate of a printing press 8. These elevations can be, for example, flexible printing dots (in the case of a grid) or flexible printing surfaces (in the case of a full plate) of a flexographic printing plate. In the following exemplary embodiments, the measurement of a printing plate 5 is described by way of example. By measuring the printing plate 5, the corresponding optimized working pressures between the cylinders involved in the printing process (for example, anilox cylinder 15, impression cylinder 16 with printing plate 5 and counter cylinder 17) can be automatically preset.

[0090] Figures 2a to 2c A preferred embodiment of the device for measuring the topography of a printing plate 5 of the present invention is shown; Figure 2a A cross section is shown; Figure 2b A top view is shown; Figure 2c Show Figure 2a According to this embodiment, the topography is detected preferably by means of a plurality of devices 18 within the scope of 3D radius determination by means of optional reference lines.

[0091] In this and subsequent embodiments, "2D" means: scanning a segment of the printing plate 5 (e.g. annular height profile), and "3D" means: scanning the entire printing plate 5 (e.g. a cylindrical height profile composed of annular height profiles).

[0092] The device comprises a plurality of radiation sources 19 (in particular light sources 19, preferably LED light sources), at least one reflector 20 and at least one light receiver 21 (preferably an area camera and particularly preferably a high-speed camera). In the following, the radiation source is exemplarily based on a light source, that is, emitting visible light. Alternatively, the radiation source can emit other electromagnetic radiation, such as infrared. These light sources are preferably arranged in a row perpendicular to the rotation axis 22 of the carrier roller 1 and generate a light curtain 23, wherein the carrier roller 1 with the sleeve 3 and the printing plate 5 generates a shielding 24 (that is, a contour). The reflected and subsequently received light 25 (that is, essentially the emitted light 23, without the light 24 shielded by the topography 13) carries information about the topography 13 to be measured. The reflector 20 can be configured as a reflective foil.

[0093] The light source 19 is planar (area camera). The light source preferably emits visible light. Preferably, the light source 19 and the light receiver 21 cover the working width 26, that is, the extension of the printing plate 5 in the direction of its axis 22 (for example 1650 mm). Preferably, n light sources 19 and light receivers 21 can be provided, wherein, for example, 2>n>69. In the case of using smaller cameras, an upper limit larger than 69 may be required. If the entire working width 26 is covered, the printing plate 5 can be measured during one revolution of the carrier roller 1. Otherwise, the light source and the light receiver must move along the printing plate in the axial direction 27 or have a beat.

[0094] Preferably, a powerful but fast-working camera 21, such as a black-and-white camera, is used. These cameras can take single images or films during the rotation of the printing plate 5.

[0095] The arrangement consisting of the light source 19, the reflector 20 and the light receiver 21 can preferably be moved in a direction 28 perpendicular to the axis 22 of the support roller 1 in order to direct the generated light strip 23 toward the feature 13 to be measured or the reference object 30. For this purpose, a motor 29 can be provided. It can also be provided that the reflector is designed in a fixed manner and only the light source and / or the light receiver are moved (for example by means of a motor).

[0096] Contrary to the illustration, the measurement of the topography 13 is preferably carried out in a vertical direction (e.g. the camera is "down" and the reflector is "up") and not in a horizontal direction, since in this case any sags of the support roller 1 and the reference object 30 can be left out of account. In this preferred solution, it is necessary to assume that Figure 2a Rotate 90° in a clockwise direction.

[0097] As an optional reference object 30, a linear object 30 is provided, preferably a tensioned wire 30 or a tensioned string 30, for example a metal wire or carbon fiber, or a knife (or a knife-like object or an object with an edge) or a beam, which generates a reference line 31 for a plurality of light receivers 21. The linear object preferably extends parallel to the axis of the support cylinder 1 and is arranged at a small distance 32, for example 2 mm to 10 mm (up to 20 mm) from its circumference 33 (or from the printing plate 5 arranged on this circumference 33). The received light 25 also contains analyzable information about the reference object 30, such as its location and / or distance from the surface 14 of the printing plate 5 (preferably etched and therefore deeper than the elevation 13). With the help of the reference line, preferably using digital image processing, the radial distance R of the topography 13 (or contour or contour elevation) from the reference object 30 can be determined. The distance between the reference object 30 and the axis 22 of the support roller 1 is known by the arrangement and / or motorized displacement of the reference object 30 (optionally together with the light source 19 and the light receiver 21 and, if necessary, the reflector 20). The radial distance between the contour elevations (i.e., the radius R of the printing point) can thus be determined in an algorithmic manner. By using the reference object 30 and thus by the presence of the mask caused thereby or of a reference line 31 corresponding to the mask for each camera 21 (in the captured image or based on the received light), an exact (e.g., pixel-accurate) orientation of the cameras relative to one another is not absolutely necessary. Furthermore, the reference object 30 can be used to calibrate the measuring system.

[0098] The reference object 30 can be coupled to the light source 19 and / or the motor 29 for the movement or adjustment along the direction 28. Alternatively, the reference object can have its own motor 29b for the movement / adjustment.

[0099] For initial reference of the device, a measurement is preferably carried out with the aid of a (“empty”) carrier roller or a measuring sleeve arranged thereon (measuring the distance between the reference object and the surface, from AS to BS).

[0100] In order to further initialize the device before the measuring process, it is preferred to first move the surface camera 21 in the direction 28 toward the support roller 1. Preferably, the movement is stopped as soon as the camera preferably detects the first ridge. Subsequently, the reference object 30 is preferably also moved in the direction 28 to a predetermined distance (e.g. 2 mm) from the support roller 1.

[0101] Alternatively, the light source 19 and the light receiver 21 can also be arranged on opposite sides of the support roller 1 ; in this case, the reflector 20 can be omitted.

[0102] Preferably, the light source 19 , the reflector 20 (if present according to the embodiment), the light receiver 21 and the optional reference object 30 form a unit 34 which is movable (perpendicular to the axis 22 of the support roller), in particular adjustable or displaceable by a motor.

[0103] During the measurement, the carrier cylinder 1 with the printing plate 5 located thereon rotates so that preferably all elevations 13 can be detected along the circumferential direction 35. As a result, a topographic image and the radius R or diameter D (measured between opposite elevations) of individual elevations 13, such as flexographic printing dots, relative to the axis 22 can be determined as a function of the angular position of the carrier cylinder 1.

[0104] exist Figure 2c The enlarged view of FIG. 5 shows a detail of the topography 13 of the printing plate 5 and it is possible to recognize the shadows 24 of the topography and the shadows 36 of the reference object 30. These topography elevations 13 can be in the range of 2 μm to 20 mm.

[0105] Furthermore, a sensor 37 may be provided which detects a detection feature 38 (see Figure 2b ) detection sleeve 3 and / or printing plate 5. The feature may be, for example, a barcode, a two-dimensional code (such as a QR code or a data matrix code), a radio frequency identification chip or an NFC (near field communication) chip.

[0106] The signals and / or data generated by the light receiver 21, which include information about the topography 13 of the measured surface 14 and about the reference object 30, are preferably transmitted via a line or via a radio connection to a computer 39 and further processed there. The computer is connected to the printing press 8. The computer 39 evaluates this information.

[0107] Reference object 30 can be placed in the detection area of ​​light receiver 21 before measurement in order to calibrate the light receiver. Light receiver 21 detects the reference object and transmits the generated calibration signal to computer 39. The calibration data are recorded in digital memory 40 of computer 39.

[0108] It is thus possible to store a virtual reference object in computer 39. Reference object 30 is then removed from the detection region of light receiver 21 and measured topography 39 of surface 14 is further processed together with the virtual reference object.

[0109] The results of the evaluation are stored in a digital memory 40 of a computer, in a memory 40 of a printing press, or in a cloud-based memory. These results are preferably stored in association with the corresponding identification features 38. During the subsequent use of the printing plate 5 (or printing sleeve / flexographic printing plate) mounted on a sleeve in a printing press 8, the identification features 38 of the printing plate 5 (or printing sleeve / flexographic printing plate) can be read in again. The values ​​stored for the identification features 38 can then be called up (for example for presetting purposes). For example, it can be provided that the printing press obtains the data required for the print job from a cloud-based memory.

[0110] The result of the analysis and processing may preferably include up to four values: the pressure feed of the impression roller 16 (i.e. the roller carrying the measured printing plate 5) on both sides 41 or AS (drive side) and 42 or BS (operating side) relative to the counter roller 17 (or printing material transport roller 17) in accordance with operating requirements, and the pressure feed of the anilox roller 15 that colors the measured printing plate 5 relative to the impression roller 16 on both sides 41 or AS (drive side) and 42 or BS (operating side) in accordance with operating requirements.

[0111] Furthermore, a device 43 for detecting the point density, for example by optical scanning, can be provided, preferably a laser triangulation device, a CIS scanning strip (contact image sensor) or an area camera. Alternatively, the device 43 can be a swiveling or movable reflector, so that it can be used together with the light source 19, 21 to measure the point density. The device is preferably connected to a device for image processing and / or image analysis, which is preferably a computer 39 (or a computer 39 with corresponding programming) or can be another computer 39b.

[0112] The CIS scanning strip can be arranged axially parallel to the cylinder. The CIS scanning strip preferably includes an LED for illumination and a sensor for image capture (similar to the scanning strips in commercially common copiers). Such a strip is preferably arranged or positioned at a distance of 1 to 2 cm from the surface. A cylinder with a surface to be measured, such as a printing plate, rotates under the strip, which generates an image of the surface and provides it to an image analysis process for dot density analysis. The data obtained by the detection of the dot density can also be used, for example, to select or recommend an anilox roller (optimized for printing with the detected stamp) in an algorithmic manner based on a plurality of provided anilox rollers.

[0113] Figure 3a and 3b A preferred embodiment of the device for measuring the topography of a printing plate 5 of the present invention is shown; Figure 3a Showing a cross section, Figure 3bAccording to this embodiment, the topography is detected, preferably by means of a laser micrometer 44 , within the scope of the 2D diameter determination.

[0114] The device comprises a light source 19, preferably a line LED light source 19 or a line laser 19, and a light receiver 21, preferably a line camera 21. The laser and the light receiver together form a laser micrometer 44. The light source 19 generates a light curtain 23, and the carrier cylinder 1 with the sleeve 3 and the printing plate 5 generates a mask 24. The line length of the light source 19 and the light receiver 21 is preferably greater than the diameter D of the carrier cylinder together with the sleeve and the printing plate, so that the topography can be obtained without a movement of the device 44 perpendicular to the axis 22 of the carrier cylinder. In other words: the cross section of the carrier cylinder is completely located in this light curtain.

[0115] The arrangement 44 consisting of the light source 19 and the light receiver 21 can be moved parallel to the axis 22 of the support roller (in the direction 27) in order to detect the entire working width 26. A motor 45 can be provided for this purpose.

[0116] A sensor 37 may be provided which detects the presence of a recognition feature 38 (see Figure 2b ) sleeve 3 and / or printing plate 5.

[0117] The signals and / or data generated by the optical receiver 21 are preferably transmitted via a line or via a radio connection to a computer 39 and processed further there. The computer is connected to the printing press 8 .

[0118] Alternatively, the light source 19 and the light receiver 21 can also be arranged on the same side of the carrier roller 1; in this case, similar to Figures 2a to 2c As in the embodiment of the present invention, a reflector 20 is arranged on the opposite side.

[0119] According to an alternative embodiment, the topography is preferably detected within the scope of 2D diameter determination by means of a laser micrometer 44, wherein not only individual measurement lines 46 but also a wider (shown in dashed lines) measurement strip 47 consisting of a plurality of (shown in dashed lines) measurement lines 48 is detected. In this exemplary embodiment, the light source 19 and the light receiver 21 are preferably designed in a planar manner and not just in a line-shaped manner. The light source 19 can include a plurality of light lines 48, each of which has a width of approximately 0.1 mm and a corresponding spacing of approximately 5 mm from one another. In this example, the camera is preferably designed as an area camera.

[0120] Figure 4a and 4b A preferred embodiment of the device for measuring the topography of a printing plate 5 of the present invention is shown; Figure 4a Showing a cross section, Figure 4b According to this embodiment, the topography is detected within the scope of the 2D radius determination, preferably by means of a laser micrometer.

[0121] The device comprises a light source 19, preferably an LED light source 19, and a light receiver 21, preferably a line-shaped LED light source 21 or a line-shaped laser 21. The light source 19 generates a light curtain 23 and the support cylinder 1 with the sleeve 3 and the printing plate 5 generates a mask 24.

[0122] The arrangement consisting of the light source 19 and the light receiver 21 can preferably be moved in a direction 28 perpendicular to the axis 22 of the support roller 1 in order to direct the light curtain 23 toward the feature 13 to be measured. For this purpose, a motor 29 can be provided. In the case where the light curtain 23 is wide enough and thus covers the measurement area, the motor 29 can be omitted.

[0123] The signals and / or data generated by the light receiver 21 are preferably transmitted via a line or via a radio connection to a computer 39 and further processed there. The computer is connected to the printing press 8. Alternatively, the light source 19 and the light receiver 21 can be arranged on the same side of the carrier cylinder; in this case, similar to Figures 2a to 2c As in the embodiment of the present invention, a reflector 20 is arranged on the opposite side.

[0124] According to an alternative embodiment, the topography 13 is detected within the scope of the 3D radius determination, preferably by means of a laser micrometer 44, wherein not only the measuring line 46 but also a wider (shown by dashed lines) measuring strip 47 is detected, i.e., a plurality of measuring lines 48 are detected simultaneously. In this exemplary embodiment, the light source 19 and the light receiver 21 are designed to be planar and not just line-shaped.

[0125] According to another alternative embodiment, the topography 13 is detected within the scope of 3D radius determination, preferably by means of a laser micrometer 44, wherein the arrangement consisting of the light source 19 and the light receiver 21 can preferably be moved in a direction 28 perpendicular to the axis of the support roller 1 in order to direct the light curtain 23 toward the topography 13 to be measured. For this purpose, a motor 29 (shown in dashed lines) can be provided.

[0126] According to an alternative embodiment, the topography 13 is detected within the scope of the 3D radius determination, preferably by means of a laser micrometer 44 , wherein the last two alternative embodiments described above are combined.

[0127] Figure 5 An exemplary and greatly enlarged topographic measurement result of a printing plate 5 is shown, comprising two printing areas 50 and two non-printing areas 51. Here, the radial measurement result for 360° is shown at an axial position (with respect to the axis of the carrier cylinder). These non-printing areas can be produced, for example, by etching and therefore have a smaller radius than the printing areas.

[0128] The illustration also shows the radius 52 of the envelope or the envelope 52 of the point of the printing plate 5 having the largest radius, ie the highest elevation of the topography 13 at the axial position.

[0129] The dot 53 of the printing plate 5 is a printing dot because it has sufficient contact with the printing material and with the ink-transmitting anilox roller during printing operation at the pressure (or printing feed) normally set between the printing plate 5 and the printing material 11 or the transport cylinder 17. The normally set pressure produces a so-called kiss print, in which the printing plate just touches the printing material and in which the flexible printing dots are not significantly damaged.

[0130] Point 54 is a point which is still printed during printing operation at the normally set press, since it is still in contact with the printing material.

[0131] These two dots 55 are dots that are not to be printed, since during printing operation, at the conventionally set nip level, these dots 55 do not come into contact with either the printing material or the anilox roller.

[0132] A computer program runs on the computer 39, which determines the radially deepest point 56 and its radial spacing 57 from the envelope 52 in the printing area 50 in a computationally-technical manner, for example using digital image processing. This calculation is performed at regular intervals in the axial direction, for example from AS to BS at all measuring points, and the respective maximum values ​​(i.e. the deepest values) from AS to the center and from the center to the deepest point of BS are determined. These two maximum values ​​or the feed values ​​or setting values ​​thus determined in a computationally-technical manner can be selected, for example, in printing as a corresponding feed / adjustment for AS and BS, i.e.: the cylinder spacing between the cylinders involved in printing is reduced by this feed for AS and BS. For this purpose, a motor-driven lead screw can be used from AS and to BS.

[0133] Here are some specific numerical examples:

[0134] On one side this results in a distance ΔR=65 μm, on the other side a distance ΔR=55 μm. In order to print all dots 53 to 55 of printing plate 5 , an advance of 65 μm is necessary.

[0135] In all the embodiments shown and the alternatives mentioned therein, the production-related and / or operation-related (due to wear) runout accuracy of the sleeve 3 can be additionally measured and, based on the measurement and evaluation results, can be taken into account in printing to improve the quality of the resulting printed product. In the event of a predefined runout tolerance being exceeded, a warning can be output. This measurement can be carried out both in the case of a smooth sleeve and in the case of a porous sleeve.

[0136] In all the embodiments shown and the alternatives mentioned therein, the printing plate 5, in particular its polymer material, can additionally be measured for production-related thickness fluctuations and / or distortions thereof (in particular due to mounting on a sleeve) and / or dust and / or hair or airborne impurities (between sleeve and mounted printing plate) and / or existing elevations caused by the adhesive surface 4 and / or temperature influences (thermal expansion). Dust particles and their position can be determined individually by topographic detection. The individual dust particles can be displayed to the operator, for example, by a laser dot / a laser cross projected on the printing plate 5, for removal. Alternatively, a dust removal device can be moved to the position of the dust particles and the dust particles can be removed, for example, by air jets or by means of rollers.

[0137] Instead of a light source 19 or a light transmitter 19 (which emits visible light), a radar transmitter 19 (with a correspondingly adapted receiver) can also be used within the scope of the invention.

[0138] In all the embodiments shown and the alternatives mentioned therein, parameters for a dynamic pressure feed can also be determined and sent to the printing press. For example, a known (e.g. measured in advance) and available to the computer 39 hysteresis extension of the deformable and / or compressible printing dots 53 to 55 made of polymer material can be taken into account. Alternatively, the hardness of the printing plate determined in advance by means of a hardness tester can be used. This extension can be particularly dependent on the printing speed that prevails in accordance with the operating regulations, or this printing speed dependency can be taken into account. For example, a higher pressure feed can be selected at a higher printing speed.

[0139] Here, the printing surface or dot density of the printing plate 5 can also be taken into account (instead of or in addition to the printing speed), that is: the variable location density of the printing dots on the printing plate 5: for example, a higher pressure feed can be selected in the case of a higher dot density, and / or the dot density can be used when adjusting the dynamic pressure feed.

[0140] To determine the local point density, received light 25 may be used, ie essentially emitted light 23 without light 24 obscured by feature 13. This light carries information about feature 13 to be measured and / or its surface point density and / or its elevations.

[0141] For this purpose, a device 43 can also be provided for detecting or measuring the dot density, i.e. its local or local value, on a stamp, such as a flexographic printing plate, which device is preferably a CIS scanning strip or an area camera. For example, it can be provided that, based on the data obtained / calculated by the dot density determination, predetermined values ​​for different pressure feeds on the AS (drive side of the printing press) and the BS (operating side of the printing press) are provided.

[0142] Knowing the dot density of the printing plate 5 and / or the inked anilox roller 15 and / or the anilox sleeve 15, the expected ink consumption when printing on a given printing material 11 with the printing plate 5 can be determined in a computational manner. From this ink consumption, the required dryer power of the dryer 10 for drying the ink on the printing material can be determined in a computational manner. Based on the calculated, expected ink consumption, the ink reserve to be provided can also be calculated.

[0143] In all the embodiments shown and the alternatives mentioned therein, so-called channel impact patterns can also be taken into account. A channel impact pattern is a disturbance that occurs periodically during the rotation of the printing plate 5 in accordance with the operating regulations, which is caused by a vacancy or channel (i.e., a large interfering area or other axial channel without a printing point) with a page width or at least an interfering width (mostly extending in the axial direction) in the printed image. Such a channel or its channel impact pattern may impair the printing quality, because the cylinders involved in the printing are close and collide rhythmically by kissing and pressing in the channel area that is repeatedly passed during rotation. This may lead to undesirable density fluctuations or even printing interruptions in unfavorable circumstances. The existing channel impact pattern can preferably be detected by means of a CIS measuring device 43 (e.g., the above-mentioned swingable or movable mirror together with a surface camera) or by means of a surface camera and analyzed in a computational manner, and compensated in the pressure feed required in accordance with the operating regulations. For example, it can be pre-calculated based on the detected channel impact pattern: at what speed (or rotation frequency) of the printing press, vibrations will occur. These speeds or rotation frequencies are then not applied during production and are exceeded, for example, when the machine is started.

[0144] Each printing plate 5 can have an individualized channel impact pattern. Channels in the stamp can adversely affect the printing result or even lead to printing interruptions. In order to reduce or completely eliminate channel impacts, the printing plate is checked with respect to the channels along the unfolding direction. Knowing the resonance frequency of the printing mechanism 9, it is possible to calculate production speeds that are particularly unfavorable for a given stamp. These printing speeds should be avoided as appropriate (so-called "no go speeds").

[0145] In all the embodiments shown and the alternatives mentioned therein, the register mark (or multiple register marks, such as wedges, double wedges, dots or crosshairs) on the stamp can also be detected (for example using a camera 21 or 43 and using a post-placed digital image processing device) and its position can be measured, stored and prepared. As a result, the register regulator or its register sensor can be automatically adjusted to the register mark or axial position. This can advantageously prevent errors due to the otherwise usually manual adjustment of the sensor. Alternatively, the pattern can be detected and used for the configuration of the register regulator. It can also be provided that the register sensor movable by motor means is automatically positioned (especially in the axial direction). It can also be provided that the predetermined zero point of the angular position of the impression cylinder and / or the printing sleeve arranged thereon is compared with the angle value of the actual location of the printed image (for example by manual bonding), especially along the circumferential direction (or the circumferential direction of the cylinder / sleeve). Based on this comparison, an optimized initial value for the angular position of the cylinder / sleeve can be obtained. In this way, printing production can be started with a reduced register deviation. This also applies correspondingly to the transverse direction (or transverse direction of the drum / sleeve).

[0146] In all the embodiments shown and their mentioned alternatives, the power of the dryer 10 of the printing press 8 can also be controlled or regulated. For example, LED dryer sections can be switched off in areas where no printing ink is transferred to the printing material, thereby enabling advantageous energy saving and life extension of the LEDs.

[0147] Advantageously, the power of the dryer 10 (or the power of individual sections of the dryer) can be reduced for printing areas with a low dot density on the printing plate. This can save energy and / or extend the service life of the dryer or individual sections. This switching off or reduction can be done on the one hand regionally and on the other hand in a direction parallel to and / or transverse to the axial direction of the printing plate (or the transverse direction of the printing material to be processed therewith). For example, dryer sections or modules can be switched off in areas corresponding to gaps between printing plates (for example, arranged at a distance from one another, in particular manually glued).

[0148] In all of the illustrated embodiments and their mentioned alternatives, the corresponding location (on the printing plate 5 ) of the measurement error can also be detected for a print inspection system and made available for further use, for example a local adjustment of such a print inspection system.

[0149] In all the embodiments shown and the alternatives mentioned therein, an online or inline ink measuring system can also be positioned. To determine the location and thus the position of the online ink measurement, an image and / or pattern recognition is performed, based on which the axial position for the measuring system is determined. In order to be able to realize free areas for calibration with respect to the printing material, the free printing areas can be communicated to the online ink measuring system.

[0150] An exemplary overall process will be described below which can be carried out with the aid of the device according to the invention in a suitable embodiment.

[0151] Measurement process:

[0152] Step 1: Sleeve 3 with or without printing plate 5 is pushed onto air-loaded support cylinder 1 of measuring station 2 by air cushion and locked.

[0153] Step 2: The sleeve 3 is identified by means of a unique character string 38. This can be achieved by a barcode, a two-dimensional code (QR code or data matrix code), an RFID code, or NFC.

[0154] Step 3: Positioning the camera 21 and optionally the reference object 30 according to the diameter of the sleeve 3 (with or without the printing plate 5).

[0155] Step 4: The topography 13 of the printing plate (i.e. the radius of the elevations / printing dots 53 to 55) is determined with the aid of a reference point relative to the axis 6 (or the axis center point) of the support cylinder 22. The light source 19 and the camera 21 of the measuring device 18 can be moved axially if necessary, and the support cylinder 22 is rotated (the angular position of which is known via an encoder).

[0156] Step 5: Perform an area scan to identify dot density, free printing areas, printing surfaces, registration marks and / or measurement errors for inline ink measurement.

[0157] Step 6: Using a topography algorithm running on the computer 39, the surfaces are analyzed by surface scanning in such a way that channel impact patterns are identified and registration mark areas or in-line ink measurements are constructed.

[0158] Step 7: Optionally determine the hardness of the printing plate (in Shore A).

[0159] Step 8: Apply a dust detector and / or hair detector.

[0160] Step 9: Store the data of the measurement results in the digital memory 40.

[0161] Step 10: Displaying the measurement results, including a prompt for dust / hair (or trapped air bubbles) and / or a display of boundary values, such as roundness, eccentricity and / or convexity.

[0162] Step 11: It is possible to repeat the measurement or remove the printed sleeve to measure another sleeve.

[0163] Installation process:

[0164] Step 1: The sleeve 3 with the printing plate 5 is pushed onto the air-impacted impression cylinder 16 of the printing press 8 by means of an air cushion and locked.

[0165] Step 2: The sleeve 3 is identified by a corresponding printing unit 9 or a sensor located there with a unique character string 38. This can be achieved by a barcode, a two-dimensional code (QR code or data matrix code), an RFID code, or NFC.

[0166] Step 3: The printing mechanism (or printing press) retrieves the stored data relating to the associated identified printing sleeve / printing forme.

[0167] Adjustment process:

[0168] Step 1: For example, based on the topography, roundness and substrate data for the optimized printing point, a so-called "kiss printing" feed (adjustment of the pressure or working pressure) is performed for the impression cylinder 16 and the anilox cylinder 15. The diameter or radius is determined. The diameter or radius is known from measurement.

[0169] Step 2: Calculate the pre-registration based on the registration mark data on the plate or sleeve reference point.

[0170] Step 3: According to the determined dot density value and the printing surface and speed and the optional printing material, the dynamic pressure feed is adjusted. The hardness of the printing plate (in Shore hardness) can optionally be taken into account.

[0171] Step 4: Setting an optimized material web speed, for example, as a function of the determined resonance frequency of the printing unit for the printing plate calculated by channel impact pattern recognition.

[0172] Step 5: According to the dot density value and the printing surface and the anilox cylinder data (absorption volume, etc.), the optimized drying power (UV or hot air) is adjusted, and optionally dynamically adapted to the product web speed.

[0173] Step 6: Calculate the ink consumption based on the dot density value and the printing surface and anilox roller data (pickup volume, etc.).

[0174] Step 7: Reduce or switch off the LED UV dryer section at locations where there is a small dot density on the printing plate or where no drying is required, in order to save energy and increase the service life of the LED lamp in this way.

[0175] Step 8: Based on the acquired register mark data, for example the mark configuration, the register controller is fully automatically adjusted and the register sensor is automatically axially positioned.

[0176] Step 9: Setting the measuring position for the spectral online measurement and the print inspection of the printed ink, information about the location or the measuring position.

[0177] Alternatively, the pattern can be detected and used to configure the register controller. To automatically configure or adjust the register controller control, the image of the flexible stamp 410 is digitally processed using a camera 400, 21, 43 (eg, using a computer 410), wherein at least one register mark 310, 311 is xy-positioned.

[0178] The positioned xy data of the register mark can be stored in a digital memory 317 with respect to an ID or with respect to an identifier 316 of the sleeve and, when using this sleeve, the data can be provided to the flexographic printing press or flexographic printing mechanism by stating or naming the ID.

[0179] The flexographic printing press or the flexographic printing mechanism implements the adjustment of the register regulator control device according to the register mark position data (xy positioning). For example, the adjustment of the register regulator control device also refers to the configuration of the register marks of the printing order.

[0180] For a printing job, there are usually multiple printing units with ink or lacquer for printing operation, in which a flexible stamp 410 is used for each printing unit. Here, for example, for two flexible stamps, the position data (xy positioning) of the printed marks 310, 311 can be different.

[0181] To this end, the register control of the printing press receives position data (xy positioning) of the printing marks 310 , 311 with the identifier 316 for each flexographic stamp 410 used, whereby the configuration of the register marks for the print job can be composed of a plurality of flexographic stamps 410 .

[0182] An advantageous method for configuring the register regulator is that before printing, a camera 400 captures an image 410 of the surface of a sleeve having at least one flexible stamp and subjects this image to image processing, wherein at least one register mark 310 is xy-positioned so that the adjustment of the register regulator is automated for detecting the register mark.

[0183] For example, you can set:

[0184] - for configuring a register controller of a flexographic printing press, before printing at least one image of the surface of a sleeve or sleeves having at least one or more flexible stamps is captured by a camera and the image is subjected to digital image processing, wherein at least one or at least two register marks are xy-positioned and the register controller is automatically configured to detect the register marks using the position data of the xy-positioned register marks; or

[0185] To configure the register controller of the flexographic printing press, it is derived from the detected data by means of computing technology and used: which register mark of the register mark configuration is printed in which printing unit.

[0186] Reference numerals list

[0187] 1 Loading roller

[0188] 2 measuring stations

[0189] 3 sleeves

[0190] 4. Tape

[0191] 5 Printing Plate

[0192] 6 Rotating body, especially printing plate

[0193] 7 First Motor

[0194] 8 Printing presses, especially flexographic printing presses

[0195] 9Printing Agency

[0196] 10. Dryer

[0197] 11 Printing materials

[0198] 12 Measuring ring

[0199] 13. Protrusion / morphology

[0200] 14 Surface

[0201] 15Anilox roller / Anilox drum

[0202] 16Impression roller

[0203] 17 pairs of pressure rollers / printing material conveying rollers

[0204] 18. Measuring device

[0205] 19 Radiation sources, especially light sources

[0206] 20 reflectors

[0207] 21 Radiation receiver, in particular light receiver, such as a camera

[0208] 22 Rotation axis

[0209] 23 Light curtain / light emitted

[0210] 24 Shelter

[0211] 25 Reflected Light

[0212] 26 Working width

[0213] 27 Axial direction

[0214] 28 Movement direction

[0215] 29 Second Motor

[0216] 30 reference objects / linear objects, especially wires / chords / knives / beams

[0217] 31 Reference Lines

[0218] 32 Pitch

[0219] 33 Circumference

[0220] 34 units

[0221] 35 Circumferential direction

[0222] 36 Shelter

[0223] 37 Sensors

[0224] 38 Identification features

[0225] 39 Digital Computer

[0226] 40 Digital Memory

[0227] 41 driving side (AS)

[0228] 42 Operating side (BS)

[0229] 43. Device for detecting point density

[0230] 44 Laser Micrometer

[0231] 45 Third Motor

[0232] 46 measurement lines

[0233] 47 Measuring strips

[0234] 48+ measurement rows

[0235] 50 printing area

[0236] 51 Non-printing area

[0237] 52 Envelope radius / envelope line

[0238] 53 Printing point of printing plate

[0239] 54 The point where the printing plate is still printed

[0240] 55 Non-printing points of the printing plate

[0241] 56 The Deepest Point

[0242] 57 Radial spacing

[0243] 29b Another second motor

[0244] 39b Another digital computer

[0245] R Radial spacing

[0246] D diameter

Claims

1. A device for measuring elevations (13) on a surface (14) of a rotating body (6), the rotating body being in the form of a cylinder, a roller, a sleeve (3) or a plate for a graphics industry machine, the device comprising a first motor (7) for rotating the rotating body (6) about an axis of rotation (22) and a measuring device (18), It is characterized in that For contactless measurement, the measuring device (18) is part of a mounter for printing plates or is integrated into the mounter for printing plates; and the measuring device enables the printing plates to be measured and checked, thereby on the one hand checking the mounting quality and on the other hand determining diameter differences; the measuring device (18) includes a reference object (30), which is a tensioned string or a tensioned metal wire or a tensioned carbon fiber.

2. The device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that Errors were identified during the quality check of the installation.

3. The device according to claim 2, It is characterized in that Determined errors are displayed visually on the installer.

4. The device according to claim 3, It is characterized in that The error display is performed on the screen.

5. The device according to claim 3, It is characterized in that The error is displayed on the rotating body.

6. The device according to claim 5, It is characterized in that A laser is provided which produces a laser mark on the surface of the rotating body at the faulty position.

7. The device according to claim 6, It is characterized in that The laser mark is a laser dot or a laser cross.

8. The device according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, It is characterized in that A cleaning roller is provided which carries out error elimination.

9. The device according to claim 8, It is characterized in that The cleaning roller is flexible, soft and sticky.

10. The device according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, It is characterized in that The determined diameter difference is communicated to the flexographic printing press so that it independently compensates for the different diameters across the working width in order to thereby calculate the ideal printing position.

11. The device according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, It is characterized in that For contactless measurement, the measuring device (18) comprises i) at least one radiation source (19) and ii) at least one area camera (21) or at least one line camera.

12. The device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that A second motor is present which enables the measuring device (18) to be adjusted perpendicularly to the axis of rotation (22).

13. The device according to claim 12, It is characterized in that The second motor adjusts the reference object (30) perpendicular to the rotation axis (22).

14. The device according to claim 12 or 13, It is characterized in that A further second motor adjusts the reference object (30) perpendicularly to the axis of rotation (22).

15. The device according to claim 11, It is characterized in that The radiation source (19) irradiates at least one area of ​​the surface.

16. The device according to claim 15, It is characterized in that The radiation source (19) is a light source.

17. The device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The reference object (30) does not move parallel to the rotation axis (22).

18. The device according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, It is characterized in that The reference object (30) is a linear object which is stretched parallel to the rotation axis (22); or the reference object is an object with an edge, or a beam.

19. The device according to claim 11, It is characterized in that There is a third motor (45) which moves the radiation source (19) and the camera parallel to the axis of rotation.

20. The device according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, It is characterized in that The measuring device (18) comprises at least one reflector (20).

21. The device according to any one of the preceding claims 2 to 7, It is characterized in that Identify misorientation when checking the quality of the installation.

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