Cleaning equipment and cleaning methods

Abstract

This invention provides a cleaning apparatus and method for stably performing development and other processing on flexographic printing plates, characterized by a compact structure. The cleaning apparatus, while conveying the flexographic printing plate after imaging exposure, simultaneously performs development using a cleaning solution. The cleaning apparatus includes: a guide for fixing the front and rear ends of the flexographic printing plate; and a tension applying unit for applying tension to the flexographic printing plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a cleaning apparatus and method for developing a flexographic printing plate original after imaging exposure using a cleaning solution. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, various methods are known for developing printing plates using photosensitive resin plates. For example, methods for developing printing plates include fixing the printing plate to a platen called a stenter using adhesives or the like, or fixing the printing plate to a rotating cylinder. During the development of a printing plate, it is necessary to fix the printing plate in place to prevent wrinkles and loosening from occurring on the support structure.

[0003] When the printing plate is fixed to a setting machine coated with adhesive, after temporarily fixing the printing plate to the adhesive surface, it is rolled on the printing plate to smooth out wrinkles, thereby squeezing out the air between the adhesive and the printing plate and fixing it.

[0004] When the printing plate is fixed to a rotating cylinder, as shown in Patent Documents 1 and 2, for example, the front end of the printing plate is fixed using pins or clamping mechanisms provided on the surface of the cylinder, and the printing plate is fixed by being wound around the rotating cylinder in a manner that is both clamped to the rotating cylinder by a laydown roll and tightly fitted to the rotating cylinder. While tightly fitted to the support, the printing plate is developed.

[0005] Furthermore, for example, Patent Document 3 describes a flexible photosensitive resin plate-making apparatus, comprising: a washing section consisting of a washing area for removing uncured portions of the photosensitive resin plate and a rinsing area adjacent to the washing area for surface washing of the photosensitive resin plate from which uncured portions have been removed in the washing area; and a conveying section disposed below the washing section for conveying the photosensitive resin plate, wherein the washing area has a washing brush unit having one or more washing brushes and a washing brush unit drive mechanism for driving the washing brush unit in a horizontal direction, and the rinsing area has a rotating brush unit having one or more rotating brushes; the conveying section has an annular belt having a fixing member for fixing the photosensitive resin plate and an annular belt drive mechanism for moving the annular belt in a horizontal direction below the washing section. The photosensitive resin plate is fixed to the annular belt by an adhesive layer serving as the fixing member.

[0006] Previous technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-63774

[0009] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-66584

[0010] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-114558 Summary of the Invention

[0011] The technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0012] As in Patent Documents 1 and 2, in apparatuses that fix a printing plate to a rotating drum, the size of the drum depends on the size of the printing plate to be developed. Therefore, in order to develop a large printing plate, the circumference of the drum needs to be extended, which in turn requires increasing the diameter of the drum. With a large drum, a large amount of power is also required to drive the drum, and the drive motor and other components also need to be larger, resulting in a larger apparatus.

[0013] Furthermore, the flexible photosensitive resin plate-making apparatus shown in Patent Document 3 is large-scale because each process is arranged in series by horizontal conveying.

[0014] Furthermore, in Patent Document 3, the fixing member uses an adhesive layer. After processing, when the photosensitive resin plate is unloaded from the conveyor belt, there is a problem of the photosensitive resin plate buckling. Moreover, when using an adhesive layer, if the photosensitive resin plate is immersed in the washing liquid in the washing area, it may detach from the adhesive layer during the immersion process. Thus, it is impossible to reliably wash the photosensitive resin plate, etc.

[0015] The purpose of this invention is to provide a cleaning device and method that is small in size and can stably perform processes such as developing flexographic printing plates.

[0016] means for solving technical problems

[0017] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a cleaning apparatus that simultaneously transports a flexographic printing plate original after imaging exposure and develops it using a cleaning solution. The cleaning apparatus includes: a guide for fixing the front and rear ends of the flexographic printing plate original; and a tension applying unit for applying tension to the flexographic printing plate original.

[0018] Preferably, the flexographic printing plate has a developing section that uses a cleaning solution to remove the unexposed portions of the flexographic printing plate and performs development. The developing section has at least one cup brush for development and a drive section that moves the cup brush relative to the transport direction of the flexographic printing plate along the width direction of the flexographic printing plate.

[0019] Preferably, the developing section has at least two types of brushes for developing, one of which is a brush whose rotating axis is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the flexographic printing plate original.

[0020] Preferably, the drive unit moves the cup brush by more than 1 / 3 of its diameter along the width direction of the flexographic printing plate.

[0021] The preferred configuration is as follows: the cup brush has bundles of bristles in the substrate, and the bristles are located in areas other than the area with a radius of 10 mm or less relative to the center of the substrate.

[0022] The bristles of the cup brush are preferably set in an area of ​​more than 30% of the substrate.

[0023] The preferred length of the bristles on a cup brush or brush is 5–25 mm.

[0024] Preferably, the rinsing section supplies rinsing fluid to the flexographic printing plate original that has been developed and removed from the developing section, and the rinsing section is provided on the downstream side of the flexographic printing plate original in the traveling direction of the developing section.

[0025] Preferably, a pre-rinsing section is provided between the rinsing section and the developing section to supply cleaning solution to the flexographic printing plate original after developing.

[0026] Preferably, the rinsing section has a spray nozzle that supplies rinsing solution to the developed flexographic printing plate. For the spray nozzle, the amount of rinsing solution supplied per unit area of ​​the developed flexographic printing plate is 0.3 to 7 kg / m². 2 .

[0027] Preferably, the rinsing section is configured to supply rinsing fluid to a liquid film formed by the cleaning fluid remaining on the flexographic printing plate original removed from the developing section after development.

[0028] Because it is easy for the liquid film formed by the cleaning solution to flow into the developing tank together with the rinsing solution, the position where the rinsing solution is supplied is preferably 50 cm or less from the liquid surface of the cleaning solution, more preferably 30 cm or less, and even more preferably 15 cm or less.

[0029] Preferably, the developing section uses a cleaning solution stored in the developing tank for developing, and the rinsing solution supplied from the rinsing section to the flexographic printing plate original at the end of developing flows into the developing tank of the developing section.

[0030] Preferably, the developing section uses a cleaning solution stored in the developing tank for developing, and the rinsing solution supplied from the rinsing section to the flexographic printing plate original at the end of developing and the cleaning solution supplied from the pre-rinsing section to the flexographic printing plate original at the end of developing flow into the developing tank of the developing section.

[0031] Preferably, it includes: a developing section for removing unexposed portions of the flexographic printing plate original using a cleaning solution and performing development; and a rinsing section for supplying rinsing solution to the flexographic printing plate original after development is completed and removed from the developing section, wherein the rinsing section is provided on the downstream side of the flexographic printing plate original in the traveling direction of the developing section.

[0032] Preferably, a pre-rinsing section is provided between the rinsing section and the developing section to supply cleaning solution to the flexographic printing plate original after developing.

[0033] Preferably, the rinsing section has a spray nozzle that supplies rinsing solution to the developed flexographic printing plate. For the spray nozzle, the amount of rinsing solution supplied per unit area of ​​the developed flexographic printing plate is 0.3 to 7 kg / m². 2 .

[0034] For example, the developing section uses cleaning solution stored in the developing tank for developing, and the rinsing solution supplied from the rinsing section to the flexographic printing plate original at the end of developing flows into the developing tank of the developing section.

[0035] Furthermore, for example, the developing section uses cleaning fluid stored in the developing tank for developing, and the rinsing fluid supplied from the rinsing section to the flexographic printing plate original at the end of developing and the cleaning fluid supplied from the pre-rinsing section to the flexographic printing plate original at the end of developing flow into the developing tank of the developing section.

[0036] Preferably, the tension-applying part applies a tension to the flexographic printing plate after it is fixed to the guide, which is greater than the tension applied to the flexographic printing plate when it is fixed.

[0037] Preferably, the following is provided: a curved conveyor path for conveying a flexographic printing plate original is provided, and a steering rod that contacts the flexographic printing plate original is provided in the curved part formed by the curved conveyor path.

[0038] Preferably, the guide has a loading and unloading unit that fixes both the front and rear ends of the flexographic printing plate original and releases the flexographic printing plate original based on the guide.

[0039] Preferably, the steering rod, which is located on a curved conveyor path, moves forward and backward relative to the curved conveyor path.

[0040] The preferred method is as follows: immerse the flexographic printing plate original in a cleaning solution for development.

[0041] The preferred embodiment is as follows: a conveying path for a flexible printing plate original, the conveying path having both curved and straight conveying paths, and the conveying direction of the flexible printing plate original including an upward direction and a downward direction.

[0042] The preferred method is as follows: the flexographic printing plate original is fixed to the guide using pins.

[0043] The preferred embodiment is as follows: the flexographic printing plate is fixed by multiple pins, and the loading and unloading unit has an extrusion part that presses between the pins of the flexographic printing plate to remove the pins, thereby disassembling the flexographic printing plate.

[0044] The preferred pin has a barb.

[0045] Preferably, the surface in contact with the flexographic printing plate has a resin layer, a plating layer, or a diamond-like carbon layer, or multiple protrusions and depressions are formed on the surface in contact with the flexographic printing plate.

[0046] The preferred embodiment is as follows: a back plate is provided on the back side of the flexographic printing plate original, and with the back plate provided on the back side of the flexographic printing plate original, the front and rear ends of the flexographic printing plate original are fixed to the guide by the loading and unloading unit.

[0047] The preferred embodiment is as follows: a sensor with a detection guide, which positions the guide based on the detection of the sensor guide.

[0048] Furthermore, the present invention provides a cleaning method in which a flexible printing plate original after imaging exposure is transported while a cleaning solution is used for development, wherein the front and rear ends of the flexible printing plate original are fixed and tension is applied to the flexible printing plate original for development.

[0049] The preferred method is as follows: the tension applied to the flexographic printing plate after fixing the flexographic printing plate is greater than the tension applied to the flexographic printing plate when fixing the flexographic printing plate.

[0050] The preferred embodiment is as follows: the flexographic printing plate is conveyed on a conveying path that has both curved and straight conveying paths, and the conveying direction of the flexographic printing plate includes the upward and downward directions.

[0051] The preferred method is as follows: immerse the flexographic printing plate original in a cleaning solution for development.

[0052] The preferred method is as follows: the flexographic printing plate original is fixed to the guide using pins.

[0053] Preferably, after the developing process, there is a rinsing process that supplies rinsing solution to the flexographic printing plate original after the developing process is completed.

[0054] The preferred embodiment is as follows: a pre-rinsing process is provided between the developing process and the rinsing process to supply cleaning solution to the flexographic printing plate original after developing.

[0055] The preferred method is as follows: the rinsing process involves supplying rinsing solution to the developed flexographic printing plate using a spray nozzle. For the spray nozzle, the amount of rinsing solution supplied per unit area of ​​the developed flexographic printing plate is 0.3–7 kg / m². 2 .

[0056] For example, in the developing process, the cleaning solution stored in the developing tank is used, and the rinsing solution supplied to the flexographic printing plate original after developing flows into the developing tank during the rinsing process.

[0057] Furthermore, for example, in the developing process, the cleaning solution stored in the developing tank, the rinsing solution supplied to the flexographic printing plate original after developing in the rinsing process, and the cleaning solution supplied to the flexographic printing plate original after developing in the pre-rinsing process flow into the developing tank.

[0058] Invention Effects

[0059] According to the present invention, a cleaning apparatus and cleaning method are provided that are compact in structure and capable of stably performing processes such as developing flexographic printing plates. Attached Figure Description

[0060] Figure 1 This is a schematic side view illustrating an example of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view showing the main parts of an example of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 3 This is a schematic top view showing the main parts of an example of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 4 This is a schematic top view illustrating the transport method of the flexographic printing plate original according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a front-end guide used in the transport of a flexographic printing plate original according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the rear end of the guide mechanism used in the transport of a flexographic printing plate original according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 7 This is a schematic top view illustrating another example of the transport method of the flexographic printing plate original according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the installation of a flexible printing plate original in the unloading unit of a cleaning apparatus based on an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of disassembling the flexible printing plate original of the unloading unit of the cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the installation of a flexible printing plate original in the unloading unit of a cleaning apparatus based on an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the disassembly of the flexible printing plate original of the unloading unit of the cleaning apparatus based on an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the back plate portion of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 13 This is a schematic top view illustrating an example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 14 This is a schematic side view illustrating an example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 15 This is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of the brush in the cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 16 This is a schematic top view showing the bristle side of the brush in the cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the brush in the cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the developing process of a cleaning apparatus based on an embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the developing process of a cleaning apparatus based on an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the developing process of a cleaning apparatus based on an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the developing process of a cleaning apparatus based on an embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the developing process of a cleaning apparatus based on an embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the developing process of a cleaning apparatus based on an embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a method for mounting a flexographic printing plate original in a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 26 This is a schematic top view illustrating another example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Figure 30 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the brush used in the developing section of the cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Figure 31 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the method for supplying cleaning fluid to the cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0091] Figure 32 This is a schematic top view illustrating another example of the developing unit of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] Figure 33 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the developing unit of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Figure 34 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] Figure 35 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Figure 36 This is a schematic side view illustrating another example of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Figure 37 This is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a heater used in a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Figure 38 This is a schematic diagram showing a first example of the rinsing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] Figure 39 This is a schematic diagram showing a second example of the rinsing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Figure 40 This is a schematic diagram showing a third example of the rinsing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Figure 41 This is a schematic diagram showing the fourth example of the rinsing section of the cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] Figure 42 This is a schematic diagram showing the fifth example of the rinsing section of the cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Figure 43 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the sixth example of the rinsing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] Figure 44 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the rinsing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, in the seventh example.

[0104] Figure 45 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the rinsing section of the cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, in the eighth example.

[0105] Figure 46 This is a schematic side view illustrating another example of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] Figure 47 This is a schematic side view illustrating another example of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0107] Hereinafter, the cleaning apparatus and cleaning method of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0108] Furthermore, the figures described below are illustrative of the invention, and the invention is not limited to the figures shown below.

[0109] The "~" sign indicating a range of values ​​includes the values ​​on either side. For example, ε for the value α ~ β means that the range of ε includes both the values ​​α and β. In mathematical notation, this is α ≤ ε ≤ β.

[0110] Furthermore, regarding "orthogonality" and specific angles, unless otherwise specified, they include the generally permissible error range in the corresponding technical field. Additionally, regarding numerical values, unless otherwise specified, they include the generally permissible error range in the corresponding technical field.

[0111] (Cleaning device)

[0112] Figure 1 This is a schematic side view illustrating an example of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view showing the main parts of an example of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a schematic top view illustrating the main parts of an example of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 compared to, Figure 2 and Figure 3 A portion of the structure of the cleaning device 10 has been omitted.

[0113] Figure 1 The cleaning apparatus 10 shown is a conveyor-type cleaning apparatus that transports the flexographic printing plate 70, which has undergone imaging exposure on surface 70a, while simultaneously developing it using cleaning solution Q. This development process using the cleaning solution Q is referred to as the developing step. Figure 1 As shown, the transport path Dp of the flexographic printing plate original 70 has a curved transport path Dpc and a straight transport path Dps. The transport direction D of the flexographic printing plate original 70 includes an upward direction and a downward direction. The upward direction refers to the direction from the developing tank 13 toward the deflector rod 34a, and the downward direction refers to the direction from the deflector rod 34a toward the developing tank 13. The curved transport path Dpc is also referred to as a deflector section.

[0114] Figure 1 The conveyor path Dp shown is a cyclic conveyor path with a curved conveyor path Dpc, a straight conveyor path Dps, and a curved conveyor path Dpc. Therefore, as described later, the flexographic printing plate master 70 can be developed multiple times.

[0115] As described later, the flexographic printing plate 70 is only a few millimeters thick and has the flexibility to be bent and transported within the developing tank 13. Furthermore, imaging exposure of the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 is performed, for example, using an exposure device (not shown). The surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 after imaging exposure becomes the printing surface.

[0116] In the cleaning apparatus 10, the unexposed portions (not shown) of the flexographic printing plate 70, which is immersed in the cleaning solution Q and in a conveying state after imaging exposure, are removed and developed. The cleaning apparatus 10 is a single-piece device that performs development while conveying the flexographic printing plate 70 along a defined conveying path. In the cleaning method using the cleaning apparatus 10, development is performed while conveying the flexographic printing plate 70 along a defined conveying path Dp. The cleaning method refers to the developing method.

[0117] Furthermore, the state of conveying the aforementioned flexographic printing plate original 70 and conveying the flexographic printing plate original 70 refers to moving the flexographic printing plate original 70 along the conveying path Dp.

[0118] The cleaning apparatus 10 includes a transport section 11, a developing section 12, and a rinsing section 14. In addition, although not shown, the cleaning apparatus 10 has a control section that controls the operation of each section. Unless otherwise specified, the control section controls the operation of each section of the cleaning apparatus 10.

[0119] The cleaning apparatus 10 has a transport section 11 and a developing section 12 provided on the frame 15, but is not limited to this structure.

[0120] The cleaning device 10 has a feeding device 60 that feeds the flexographic printing plate original 70 into the loading / unloading station E. m and transport from loading / unloading station E m The flexographic printing plate original 70 is sent to the outside of the cleaning device 10.

[0121] Loading and unloading station E m The flexographic printing plate original 70 is fixed to the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 in the area where the fixation is released. From the point of view of ease of operation, loading and unloading station E... m It is preferred to set in the area of ​​the straight transport path Dps.

[0122] The feeding device 60 is only required to feed the flexographic printing plate original 70 into the loading and unloading station E. m Furthermore, the structure is not particularly limited when conveying the flexographic printing plate 70 to the outside of the cleaning device 10. The feeding device 60 can be, for example, a belt conveyor or a roller conveyor, which can be a conveyor with a general structure.

[0123] The feeding device 60 includes, for example, a drive roller 60a and a driven roller 60b, and an annular belt conveyor 60c is mounted on the drive roller 60a and the driven roller 60b. Power generated by a drive unit such as a motor (not shown) is transmitted to the drive roller 60a, causing the drive roller 60a to rotate. This, in turn, causes the belt conveyor 60c to rotate. The flexographic printing plate original 70 is then conveyed to the loading / unloading station E via the belt conveyor 60c. m In the feeding device 60, until it reaches the loading / unloading station E m Up to the front guide 37 or the rear guide 38, a guide member 61 is provided to guide the flexographic printing plate original 70. In the guide member 61, for example, a guide plate 61a disposed on the surface 70a side of the flexographic printing plate original 70 and a guide plate 61b disposed on the back side 70b side are arranged opposite each other with a gap.

[0124] Regarding guide plates 61a and 61b, they can be made of a material with good lubricity, such as stainless steel. Furthermore, they are designed to efficiently guide the material to the loading / unloading station E while minimizing friction with the flexographic printing plate 70. m Guide plates 61a and 61b are respectively provided with a resin layer, a glass layer or a coating layer on the surface opposite to the flexographic printing plate 70.

[0125] For example, as a resin layer, a fluoropolymer resin can be applied to the part of the guide plates 61a and 61b of stainless steel or other metals that come into contact with the flexible printing plate original 70. Alternatively, multiple components made of fluoropolymer resins such as high molecular weight polyethylene resin or PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) can be arranged along the conveying direction at the part of the guide plates 61a and 61b of stainless steel or other metals that come into contact with the flexible printing plate original 70.

[0126] Furthermore, the cleaning device 10 includes a sensor 62 for detecting the rear guide 38 and a sensor 63 for detecting the front guide 37. The rear guide 38 is detected by sensor 62, and the front guide 37 is detected by sensor 63, thereby enabling the determination and positioning of the positions of the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38. Therefore, it is possible to achieve this at the loading / unloading station E. m The system is equipped with a front guide 37 and a rear guide 38, capable of fixing or releasing the flexographic printing plate 70 at the loading / unloading position. If sensors 62 and 63 detect the front guide 37 or the rear guide 38, they output a detection signal to the conveyor drive unit 32, for example. Based on the detection signal, the conveyor drive unit 32 stops driving the conveyor chain 31, causing the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 to remain at the loading / unloading station E. m Stop. The conveyor drive unit 32 and the conveyor chain 31 will be explained later.

[0127] In addition, if sensors 62 and 63 can detect the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38, they are not particularly limited, and can be non-contact sensors, limit switches, area sensors, etc.

[0128] The positions of the two sensors 62 and 63 are not particularly limited, for example, in a direction orthogonal to the conveying direction D, DL (see reference). Figure 3 The positions on the sensor 62 and sensor 63 can be the same or different. The front guide 37 can be detected by sensor 62, and the rear guide 38 can be detected by sensor 63. Considering the space available for configuring sensors 62 and 63, it is preferable to detect them in the direction DL (refer to...). Figure 3 The settings are located in different positions.

[0129] The structure is set with two sensors 62 and 63, but as long as the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 can be detected, the number of sensors is not particularly limited, and there can also be only one sensor.

[0130] Furthermore, the cleaning device 10 includes a loading / unloading unit 64, which has a loading section 65 for fixing the flexographic printing plate original 70 to the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38, and an unloading section 66 for releasing the flexographic printing plate original 70 from the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38. The loading / unloading unit 64 is disposed at the loading / unloading station E. m The flexographic printing plate original 70 is fixed and released using the loading and unloading unit 64, as described later. The position where the loading and unloading unit 64 is located is called the loading and unloading position.

[0131] Frame 15, for example, is rectangular in shape. Within frame 15, as... Figure 2 As shown, two components 15a extending in one direction are arranged in parallel. Beam components 15b are arranged at both ends and the center of the component 15a along a direction orthogonal to its length. A straight transport path Dps is formed between the beam components 15b at both ends of the component 15a in the length direction of the frame 15. For example, the beam component 15b extends to the center of the component 15a in the frame 15, that is, up to the center of the beam component 15b, within the developing tank 13. The developing tank 13 is a container that stores the cleaning solution Q. The developing section 12 is arranged within the straight transport path Dps within the developing tank 13.

[0132] like Figure 3 As shown, gears 30 are rotatably provided at both ends of each component 15a along its length. Gears 30 facing each other along the length of beam component 15b are connected by shafts 30a. In each component 15a, a conveyor chain 31 is wound around a pair of gears 30 facing each other along the length. A pair of conveyor chains 31 are arranged facing each other along the length of beam component 15b of frame 15.

[0133] For example, a conveyor drive unit 32 is connected to one of the plurality of gears 30. The gear 30 rotates via the conveyor drive unit 32, thereby moving the conveyor chain 31 in a specific direction. The connection method between the gear 30 and the conveyor drive unit 32 is not particularly limited; it can be connected by a shaft or the like, or by a chain or belt.

[0134] The conveying unit 11 consists of a gear 30, a conveyor chain 31, and a conveying drive unit 32. The conveying unit 11 uses a winding transmission method with the gear 30 and the conveyor chain 31. The flexographic printing plate original 70 is conveyed through the conveying unit 11 in a state of being immersed in the cleaning solution Q in the developing tank 13.

[0135] The conveying unit 11 preferably has a tension adjusting unit 33 for adjusting the tension of the flexible printing plate 70 during conveying (see reference). Figure 1 If the tension of the conveyor chain 31 is low, the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70 during transport will be low, resulting in slackness and unstable transport of the flexographic printing plate 70. Furthermore, if the tension of the conveyor chain 31 is low, it may sometimes disengage from the gear 30. To address this, a tension adjustment part 33 for adjusting the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70 during transport is provided at the end of component 15a. The tension adjustment part 33 allows for adjustment of the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70 during transport, preventing slackness during transport.

[0136] Furthermore, if the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70 during transport can be adjusted, the placement and structure of the tension adjustment unit 33 are not particularly limited, and known placement and structures can be appropriately utilized. For example, tension adjustment units that change the distance between the gears 30 that wrap around the conveyor chain 31 and tension adjustment units that apply tension by pressing the gears against the conveyor chain 31 can be appropriately utilized.

[0137] The conveying section 11 may have a guiding mechanism for guiding the conveyor chain 31. This guiding mechanism can suppress serpentine movement of the conveyor chain 31. The guiding mechanism, for example, is located on the opposite side of the flexographic printing plate 70 on which the conveyor chain 31 is positioned, and is composed of a component inserted between rollers (not shown) of the conveyor chain 31. This component is, for example, made of a fluoropolymer such as high molecular weight polyethylene or PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene).

[0138] Steering rods 34a and 34b are provided on the beam members 15b at the ends of each component 15a along the longitudinal direction (see reference). Figure 2 Steering rods 34a and 34b are composed of semi-cylindrical components, with the flat portion of the semi-cylindrical components facing the beam component 15b.

[0139] Semi-cylindrical guide rods 34a and 34b are provided in the curved section formed by the curved transport path. That is, the curved transport path Dpc is formed by the semi-cylindrical guide rods 34a and 34b, and the flexographic printing plate original 70 is transported along the surface of the guide rods 34a and 34b. At this time, the back surface 70b of the flexographic printing plate original 70 contacts the guide rods 34a and 34b. The guide rods 34a and 34b are composed of semi-cylindrical components of a size corresponding to the curvature of the curved transport path Dpc.

[0140] Since the guide rods 34a and 34b are in contact with the flexographic printing plate original 70, it is preferable that the frictional resistance of at least the surface in contact with the flexographic printing plate original 70 is low. Low frictional resistance allows for smooth transport of the flexographic printing plate original 70 without causing scratches or other damage on the back side 70b. The guide rods 34a and 34b also suppress tension fluctuations on the curved transport path Dpc during the transport of the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0141] Steering rods 34a and 34b are located at the ends of component 15a along its length, with steering rod 34b immersed in developing tank 13 containing cleaning solution Q.

[0142] Furthermore, the flexographic printing plate 70 is mounted on the rear guide 38 with the flexographic printing plate 70 suspended around the guide rod 34a in the guide rod 34b. The guide rod 34a moves forward and backward relative to the curved transport path Dpc. When the guide rod 34a enters the curved transport path Dpc, it contacts the flexographic printing plate 70. On the other hand, when the guide rod 34a moves backward relative to the curved transport path Dpc, the transport length of the flexographic printing plate 70 becomes shorter, becoming a shortpass state as described later. Specifically, the guide rod 34a moves up and down relative to the beam member 15b, thereby moving forward and backward relative to the curved transport path Dpc. For example, a direct-acting mechanism using a solenoid is provided between the guide rod 34a and the beam member 15b. For example, the structure is configured such that the guide rod 34a descends when the solenoid is closed and rises when the solenoid is open. Thus, when fixing the flexographic printing plate 70, the guide rod 34a can be lowered.

[0143] By raising or lowering the steering rod 34a, the tension applied to the flexographic printing plate 70 can be changed. The steering rod 34a functions as a tension-applying part. In the tension-applying part, after the flexographic printing plate 70 is fixed to the guide, raising the steering rod 34a causes a force to act along the length extension direction of the flexographic printing plate 70 while it is fixed to the guide, thereby making the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70, i.e., the tension after the flexographic printing plate 70 is fixed to the guide, greater than the tension when the flexographic printing plate 70 is fixed.

[0144] Furthermore, the tension when the flexographic printing plate original 70 is fixed refers to the tension of the flexographic printing plate original 70 when the steering rod 34a is in the lowered state. The tension after the flexographic printing plate original is fixed is the tension of the flexographic printing plate original 70 when the steering rod 34a is in the uppered state.

[0145] The tension of the flexographic printing plate 70 can be determined based on its tension.

[0146] Furthermore, if the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70 is high, i.e., the flexographic printing plate 70 stretches, longitudinal wrinkles will occur in the flexographic printing plate 70. On the other hand, if the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70 is low, i.e., the flexographic printing plate 70 is slack, transverse wrinkles will occur. Both longitudinal and transverse wrinkles can cause poor development. Operators can visually confirm longitudinal and transverse wrinkles and begin transporting the plate when neither longitudinal nor transverse wrinkles have occurred, using this as the appropriate tension. It is also preferable to install a device for measuring the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70 in the tension-applying section or transport path, adjusting the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70 to a certain range.

[0147] Next, the apparatus for measuring the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70 will be described.

[0148] With the flexographic printing plate 70 fixed to the guide, visually confirm that the solenoid is in the open position and the steering rod 34a is raised. Adjust the solenoid's mounting position or stopper to ensure that no longitudinal or lateral wrinkles are generated. In addition to the solenoid, the direct-acting mechanism can also use a cylinder or hydraulic actuator. Any direct-acting mechanism is fixed in the open position with appropriate tension by adjusting the mounting position or stopper.

[0149] Furthermore, if a drive device or electric actuator composed of a ball screw, linear guide, or servo motor is used, the linear motion can not only be in an open and closed state, but also move arbitrarily within a certain range, thereby enabling fine-tuning of the tension. If these linear motion mechanisms are configured to operate the tension-applying unit via a force sensor or strain gauge, the tension applied to the flexographic printing plate 70 can be measured. By visually quantifying the tension range in the flexographic printing plate 70 where no longitudinal or transverse wrinkles occur, it is possible to visually confirm, with the solenoid in the open state and the steering rod 34a raised, and adjust the solenoid's mounting position or limiter to achieve a state where no longitudinal or transverse wrinkles occur, while the flexographic printing plate 70 is fixed to various types of guides corresponding to the width, length, and thickness of the flexographic printing plate 70. In addition to solenoids, direct-acting mechanisms can also use cylinders or hydraulic actuators. Any direct-acting mechanism is fixed in a moderately tensioned state when in the open state by adjusting the installation position or limiters.

[0150] Furthermore, by using a drive device or electric actuator composed of a ball screw, linear guide, or servo motor, the linear motion can not only be in an open and closed state, but also move arbitrarily within a certain range, thereby enabling fine adjustment of the tension applied to the flexographic printing plate 70. If these linear motion mechanisms are configured to operate the tension-applying unit via a force sensor or strain gauge, the tension applied to the flexographic printing plate 70 can be measured. By visually quantifying the tension range in the flexographic printing plate 70 that does not produce longitudinal or transverse wrinkles, it becomes easy to set appropriate tension states corresponding to various factors such as the width, length, and thickness of the flexographic printing plate 70.

[0151] As a tension measuring device, a tension controller is preferred.

[0152] The tension-applying unit is not limited to the aforementioned guide rod 34a; a roller (not shown) can also be used instead of the guide rod 34a. When a roller is provided, similar to the aforementioned guide rod 34a, it is configured to allow the roller to move forward and backward relative to the curved transport path Dpc, so that tension can be applied to the flexographic printing plate 70 when the roller enters the curved transport path Dpc.

[0153] The surfaces of the steering rods 34a and 34b that contact the flexographic printing plate original 70 are, for example, composed of a resin layer, a plating layer, or a diamond-like carbon (DLC) layer. The resin layer can be composed of fluoropolymers such as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) and high-density polyethylene. The plating layer is, for example, hard chrome plating. Alternatively, a titanium nitride (TiN) layer can be used. Furthermore, non-woven fabric can also be used in the steering rods 34a and 34b. When non-woven fabric is used, adhering materials on the back surface 70b of the flexographic printing plate original 70 can be removed.

[0154] Furthermore, in the steering rods 34a and 34b, the surfaces that contact the flexographic printing plate 70 can have multiple irregularities. By forming multiple irregularities, the contact area is reduced, and the frictional resistance is decreased. For example, a metal sheet such as embossed stainless steel can be used as a component with multiple irregularities.

[0155] In addition, the steering rods 34a and 34b as a whole can be made of the material that forms the surface that contacts the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0156] In addition, the steering rod 34b is sometimes used in a state of being immersed in the cleaning fluid Q, so it is preferable that it does not dissolve in the cleaning fluid Q, will not deteriorate due to the cleaning fluid Q, and will not swell or deform due to the cleaning fluid Q.

[0157] Furthermore, a back plate portion 35 that contacts the flexographic printing plate original 70 is provided between the central beam member 15b and the end beam member 15b of the component 15a of the frame 15. For example, the back plate portion 35 is provided on the back side 70b side of the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0158] Since the back plate portion 35 comes into contact with the flexographic printing plate original 70, the surface in contact with the flexographic printing plate original 70 is preferably flat. By making the surface in contact with the flexographic printing plate original 70 flat, the flexographic printing plate original 70 can be washed efficiently and effectively.

[0159] The backplate portion 35 is made of metal, for example. Stainless steel and titanium are preferred metals. The surface of the backplate portion 35 that contacts the flexographic printing plate original 70 can be electroplated; hard chrome plating is preferred, and DLC (diamond-like carbon) treatment is more preferred. Alternatively, the surface that contacts the flexographic printing plate original 70 can be treated with titanium nitride (TiN) or similar materials.

[0160] Furthermore, the back plate portion 35 is preferably also provided in the area where the loading and unloading unit 64 is configured. By also providing the back plate portion 35 in the area where the loading and unloading unit 64 is configured, when the flexographic printing plate original 70 is fixed to the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38, the back plate portion 35 becomes a support for the flexographic printing plate original 70, and the flexographic printing plate original 70 can be more reliably fixed to the pins 37d and 38d. The surface of the back plate portion 35 that contacts the flexographic printing plate original 70 may not be flat, but may have at least one of a convex or concave surface. The convex or concave surface of the contact surface is formed, for example, by embossing.

[0161] Furthermore, if the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70 is high (i.e., the flexographic printing plate 70 stretches), longitudinal wrinkles will occur within it. Conversely, if the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70 is low (i.e., the flexographic printing plate 70 is slack), transverse wrinkles will occur. Both longitudinal and transverse wrinkles contribute to poor development. Operators visually inspect for longitudinal and transverse wrinkles to determine the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70. A suitable tension is defined as a state where neither longitudinal nor transverse wrinkles occur within the flexographic printing plate 70.

[0162] Furthermore, for example, three clamping rollers 36 are provided at intervals along the length of component 15a, opposite to the back plate portion 35. Two of these are located near the brush 41 in the developing section 12. As described above, the flexographic printing plate 70 is flexible, but the clamping rollers 36 suppress deflection during transport and ensure stable transport of the flexographic printing plate 70. Especially during development, even if the brush 41 rotates or moves, the flexographic printing plate 70 can be transported stably. However, the number of clamping rollers 36 is not limited to three. When there is only one brush 41, the clamping rollers 36 are arranged in pairs near the brush 41 to clamp the brush 41 along the length of component 15a. Figure 2 When two brushes 41 are arranged along the length of component 15a, clamping rollers 36 are arranged near each brush along the length of component 15a. When the two brushes 41 are arranged at a distance apart, clamping rollers 36 are arranged near each brush, thus making a total of four.

[0163] Furthermore, to avoid scratching the printing surface, i.e., the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70, when the clamping roller 36 is a hard roller such as metal, the surface roughness of the clamping roller 36, measured by the arithmetic mean roughness Ra, is set to less than 6.3, preferably 3.2, and more preferably 1.6 or less. When the clamping roller 36 is a soft roller such as a rubber roller, it is preferable to use a relatively hard material with a rubber hardness of 50 degrees or higher.

[0164] As described above, the flexographic printing plate 70 is flexible, and therefore, when rubbed against the brush 41, it may bend or be unable to efficiently remove unexposed portions using the brush 41. For example, by providing the back plate portion 35 on the back side 70b of the flexographic printing plate 70, the back side 70b of the flexographic printing plate 70 is supported by the back plate portion 35 when removing unexposed portions using the brush 41, thus enabling efficient removal of unexposed portions. Furthermore, the back plate portion 35 functions as a transport guide, allowing for more stable transport of the flexographic printing plate 70.

[0165] Here, Figure 4 This is a schematic top view illustrating the conveying method of the flexographic printing plate original according to an embodiment of the present invention, and a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the front-end guide used in the conveying of the flexographic printing plate original according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the guide mechanism used in the transport of a flexographic printing plate original according to an embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, Figure 7 This is a schematic top view illustrating another example of the transport method of the flexographic printing plate original according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0166] The conveying unit 11 fixes the guide to a pair of conveyor chains 31 to convey the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0167] The guide is positioned at the front end 70c of the flexographic printing plate original 70 in the travel direction, i.e., the conveying direction D side (see reference). Figure 4 ) and front-end 70c (reference) Figure 4 ) The rear end 70d on the opposite side (reference) Figure 4 The guide includes... Figure 4 and Figure 7 The front guide 37 and rear guide 38 are shown. The front and rear ends of the flexographic printing plate original 70 are fixed by the guides.

[0168] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, multiple fixing parts 31b are provided at equal intervals along the length direction of the conveyor chain 31. The front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 are fixed to the fixing parts 31b. The length direction of the conveyor chain 31 is the same as the conveying direction D.

[0169] like Figure 4 As shown, the front guide 37 has a long base 37a and bent portions 37b disposed at each end of the base 37a along its length. Figure 5 As shown, a plurality of mounting portions 37c are provided at equal intervals along the length of the base 37a. A pin 37d is provided in each mounting portion 37c. The pin 37d passes through the flexographic printing plate 70, thereby fixing the flexographic printing plate 70 to the front guide 37. In this case, to suppress movement of the flexographic printing plate 70 during transport, it is preferable to align and fix the base 37a with the front end of the flexographic printing plate 70.

[0170] like Figure 4 As shown, the bent portion 37b of the front guide 37 is fixed to the fixing portion 31b of the conveyor chain 31, thereby fixing the front guide 37 to the conveyor chain 31. The method of fixing the front guide 37 to the conveyor chain 31 is not particularly limited, and it can be fixed by at least one of the following methods: hooking, screwing, clamping, and fixing by magnetic force.

[0171] For example, "hanging" refers to the method of hanging the bent part 37b on the fixed part 31b.

[0172] For example, threaded engagement refers to a method of fixing the bent portion 37b to the fixed portion 31b using bolts and nuts. In addition, a method of fixing the bent portion 37b to the fixed portion 31b by pre-forming internal threads in the fixed portion 31b is also included in threaded engagement.

[0173] Clamping, for example, refers to a method of bringing together and clamping the bent part 37b and the fixed part 31b using components such as clamps.

[0174] For example, magnetic fixing refers to a method in which a bending part 37b and a fixing part 31b are pre-formed from a magnetic body, and a magnet is used to fix the bending part 37b and the fixing part 31b.

[0175] The rear guide 38 has a substantially the same structure as the aforementioned front guide 37. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the rear guide 38 has a long base 38a and bent portions 38b located at each end of the base 38a along its length. Multiple mounting portions 38c are provided at equal intervals along the length of the base 38a. A pin 38d is provided in each mounting portion 38c. The pin 38d passes through the flexographic printing plate 70, thus securing the flexographic printing plate 70 to the rear guide 38. In this case, to suppress movement of the flexographic printing plate 70 during transport, it is preferable to align and fix the base 38a with the rear end of the flexographic printing plate 70. As described above, pins 37d and 38d are fixing components for securing the flexographic printing plate.

[0176] The bent portion 38b of the rear guide 38 is fixed to the fixing portion 31b of the conveyor chain 31, thereby fixing the rear guide 38 to the conveyor chain 31. The method of fixing the rear guide 38 to the conveyor chain 31 is not particularly limited, and similar to the front guide 37, it can be fixed by at least one of the following methods: hooking, screwing, clamping, and fixing by magnetic force.

[0177] Furthermore, since the front guide 37 is located on the traveling direction side, even when engaged, the force acts in the direction that the fixing part 31b presses against the bent portion 37b of the front guide 37. In the rear guide 38, in order for the force to act in the direction that presses against the bent portion 37b, the bent portion 38b needs to be engaged in the opposite direction to the front guide 37. Therefore, the rear guide 38 is preferably capable of engaging in the direction that presses against the bent portion 37b. Figure 4 and Figure 7 Fixed states include screwing, clamping, and fixing methods using magnetic force.

[0178] Furthermore, during transport, the transport tension sometimes fluctuates due to variations in transport conditions. This fluctuation in transport tension causes instability in the transport process. Additionally, the flexographic printing plate 70 sometimes expands or contracts due to the transport tension. Therefore, it is preferable to suppress the effects of fluctuations in transport tension and the expansion or contraction of the flexographic printing plate 70. Therefore, the guide preferably has a guide mechanism 39 that expands or contracts relative to the travel direction of the flexographic printing plate 70. By expanding or contracting relative to the travel direction of the flexographic printing plate 70, the guide mechanism 39 can reduce the effects of fluctuations in transport tension and the expansion or contraction of the flexographic printing plate 70.

[0179] Since the front guide 37 is located on the traveling direction side, its conveying tension is less prone to change, but the conveying tension of the rear guide 38 is more prone to change. Therefore, the rear guide 38 preferably has a guide mechanism 39 (see reference). Figure 6 ).

[0180] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, the guide mechanism 39 is disposed between the base 38a and the flexographic printing plate 70. The guide mechanism 39 has a frame 39a and elastic components 39b such as springs and rubber. The frame 39a and the base 38a are arranged in parallel and connected by the elastic components 39b. When the guide mechanism 39 is provided, the pin 38d is not provided in the base 38a, but in the frame 39a (see reference). Figure 5 The frame material 39a is fixed to the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0181] Alternatively, the front guide 37 can be a structure having a guide mechanism 39. In this case, the guide mechanism 39 is provided in the base 37a.

[0182] In the cleaning apparatus 10, the installation is not limited to the method described above, where the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 are mounted on a single flexographic printing plate 70. Multiple flexographic printing plates can also be mounted on the guides. For example, as... Figure 7 As shown, two flexographic printing plates 70 can be mounted on the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38. Figure 7 The example shown has two flexographic printing plates 70. The number of flexographic printing plates 70 is not limited to two. There can be more than three flexographic printing plates 70 installed. As mentioned above, it can also be set to install multiple flexographic printing plates 70.

[0183] The front guide 37 uses pins 37d to fix the flexographic printing plate original 70, and the rear guide 38 uses pins 38d to fix the flexographic printing plate original 70, but the shape, number, and spacing of the pins 37d and 38d are not particularly limited. For ease of disassembly of the flexographic printing plate original 70, the mounting portions 37c for pins 37d and 38c for pins 38d are preferably spaced apart. Furthermore, to avoid contaminating the exposure surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 when fixing it, or to avoid contaminating the cleaning solution Q in the developing tank 13, the pins 37d and 38d are preferably designed not to produce residue.

[0184] Furthermore, pins 37d and 38d, for example, have barbs. These barbs prevent the flexographic printing plate original 70 from easily detaching from pins 37d, thus reliably securing the flexographic printing plate original 70. Therefore, pins 37d and 38d preferably have barbs. Additionally, as described later, the barb refers to pin 37d (see reference). Figure 8 The base of 37e (reference) Figure 8 The portion that protrudes further from the base 37e. The flexographic printing plate original 70 is secured by the base 37e, but the barb 37f (see reference) Figure 8 The base 37e is more bulging, which restricts the movement of the flexographic printing plate 70 toward the front end of the pin 37d. Thus, the barb makes it difficult for the flexographic printing plate 70 to detach from the pin 37d.

[0185] Furthermore, pins 37d and 38d preferably have at least a resin layer, a plating layer, or a DLC layer (diamond-like carbon layer) on the surface that contacts the flexographic printing plate original 70, or have multiple protrusions and depressions formed on the surface that contacts the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0186] As the plating layer, a hard chrome plating layer is preferred. In addition, the surfaces of pins 37d and 38d that contact the flexographic printing plate original 70 can be surface-treated with titanium nitride (TiN) or similar materials. This reduces friction between pins 37d and 38d and the flexographic printing plate original 70, allowing pins 37d and 38d to easily penetrate the flexographic printing plate original 70. Consequently, the durability of pins 37d and 38d is improved, enabling repeated use of pins 37d and 38d. Furthermore, the durability of the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 is also improved.

[0187] In pins 37d and 38d, multiple protrusions and recesses on the surface that contacts the flexographic printing plate original 70 are formed, for example, by embossing.

[0188] In the cleaning apparatus 10, the developing section 12 and the rinsing section 14 are arranged along the transport path Dp of the flexographic printing plate original 70. For example, the developing section 12 is provided inside the developing tank 13, and the rinsing section 14 is provided at the upper part of the developing tank 13 where the flexographic printing plate original 70 first leaves after passing through the developing section 12. The rinsing section 14 is located downstream of the flexographic printing plate original 70 in the traveling direction of the developing section 12. Here, downstream refers to the front end 70c of the flexographic printing plate original 70 when it is transported (see reference). Figure 4 The direction of travel. Furthermore, downstream refers to the front end 70c on the conveying direction D of the flexographic printing plate original 70 (refer to...). Figure 4 The position of travel. Additionally, the side opposite to the downstream side is the upstream side.

[0189] Additionally, the cleaning apparatus 10 has a processing unit 18 disposed in the developing tank 13 via a connecting pipe 17. In the cleaning apparatus 10, for example, the flexographic printing plate original 70 that has passed through the rinsing unit 14 is removed. The position at which the flexographic printing plate original 70 is removed from the cleaning apparatus 10 is not particularly limited.

[0190] (Transportation Department)

[0191] The gear 30 of the conveying unit 11 rotates via the conveying drive unit 32, thereby moving the flexible printing plate original 70, which is fixed to the conveying chain 31 using the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38, around the frame 15. The conveying path Dp of the flexible printing plate original 70 is a path that circulates around the frame 15, having a curved conveying path Dpc and a straight conveying path Dps.

[0192] In the cleaning apparatus 10, for example, after one development cycle, the process is completed in the rinsing section 14. The rinsing cycle is performed after the development cycle. However, the development is not limited to one cycle, and the area around the frame 15 can be circulated multiple times to perform multiple development cycles.

[0193] In addition, regarding the transport path Dp of the flexographic printing plate original 70, there are various transport paths such as unidirectional transport path, reciprocating transport path and circular transport path. However, since processing based on the washing section 14 is required after development, the transport path Dp of the flexographic printing plate original 70 is preferably a unidirectional transport path or a circular transport path.

[0194] (Loading and unloading unit for the original flexographic printing plate)

[0195] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the installation of a flexible printing plate master in the unloading unit of a cleaning apparatus based on an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of disassembling the flexographic printing plate original of the cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, in Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the middle, to and Figures 1-3 The same structures of the cleaning device 10 shown are labeled with the same symbols, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0196] The loading / unloading unit 64 secures and releases the flexographic printing plate original 70 to the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38. As described above, the loading / unloading unit 64 has a mounting section 65 and an unloading section 66. The mounting section 65 is provided at each pin, preferably with the same number of pins on the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38. Therefore, if there are multiple pins, the loading / unloading unit 64 is also provided with multiple pins. Furthermore, the unloading section 66 presses on the area of ​​the flexographic printing plate original 70 that is not secured to the pin to remove the flexographic printing plate original 70, preferably provided between the pins, i.e., between the mounting sections. Therefore, the unloading section 66 is also provided with multiple unloading sections depending on the number of mounting sections.

[0197] As described above, the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 have essentially the same structure, so the front guide 37 will be used as an example for explanation, but the rear guide 38 is also the same.

[0198] Figure 8The plate mounting section 65 shown has a driving section 100 and a pressing section 102. The pressing section 102 has a recess 103. Since the recess 103 engages with the pin 37d, the inner diameter of the recess 103 is preferably larger than the maximum outer diameter of the pin 37d. This allows the pin 37d to penetrate the flexographic printing plate master 70 more reliably.

[0199] The structure of the drive unit 100 is not particularly limited if it can move the pressing part 102 from its initial position toward the pin 37d and back to its initial position; for example, a cylinder can be used. The initial position refers to the setting position of the pressing part 102, and is also called the initial position.

[0200] The pressing part 102 is used to allow the pin 37d to penetrate the flexographic printing plate 70, and therefore preferably has strength to prevent deformation, for example, it is made of metal.

[0201] Among stainless steels that are not prone to rust, the press-fit portion 102 is preferably a martensitic stainless steel with hardening properties that is resistant to wear when the flexographic printing plate original 70 is perforated. Original brand stainless steels developed for tool applications, such as SUS (stainless steel) 410, SUS420J1, and SUS420J2, correspond to martensitic stainless steels. Alternatively, carbon tool steel, alloy tool steel, high-speed tool steel, and cemented carbide can also be used for the press-fit portion 102.

[0202] The flexographic printing plate original 70 is arranged with its back side 70b facing the pin 37d of the front guide 37. The pressing part 102 of the plate mounting part 65 is disposed on the surface 70a side of the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0203] If the recess 103 of the pressing portion 102 is aligned with the pin 27d of the front guide 37, and the pressing portion 102 is extruded towards the pin 27d via the drive portion 100, the flexographic printing plate 70 is pressed towards the pin 27d, the pin 27d penetrates the flexographic printing plate 70, and the flexographic printing plate 70 is fixed to the front guide 37. At this time, the pin 37d engages with the recess 103. The pressing portion 102 is then returned to its initial position via the drive portion 100.

[0204] The pin 37d is, for example, conical in shape, with a base 37e on the bottom surface of the cone having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the bottom surface of the cone. The base 37e is connected to the mounting portion 37c. For example, the length of the base 37e is the same as the thickness of the flexographic printing plate original 70. The base 37e side of the pin 37d is more bulging than the base 37e and has a barb 37f. The barb 37f is the portion of the pin 37d that is more bulging than the base 37e. As described above, if the pin 37d penetrates the flexographic printing plate original 70, it is reliably fixed because the barb 37f is not easily disengaged from the pin 37d.

[0205] For example, the unloading section 66 is set in Figure 3 The space 15c between the two beam components 15b of the frame 15 shown. Figure 9 The ejector section 66 shown has a drive section 104 and an extrusion section 105. The extrusion section 105 has a cylindrical component. The extrusion section 105 is disposed in the area of ​​the front guide 37 where there is no mounting section 37c (see reference). Figure 5 ).

[0206] The structure of the drive unit 104 is not particularly limited, for example, as long as it can cause the extrusion unit 105 to protrude from its initial position toward the back 70b of the flexographic printing plate original 70, press the flexographic printing plate original 70 to remove the pin 37d and return to its initial position.

[0207] In order to press the flexographic printing plate 70, the extrusion part 105 preferably has strength to prevent deformation, for example, it is made of austenitic stainless steel such as SUS304 or SUS303 which is easy to machine, or martensitic stainless steel that can be hardened to obtain a hardness of HRC (Rockwell Hardness C scale) of 50 or more.

[0208] The extrusion part 105 protrudes from the initial position along the length direction of the pin 37d via the drive part 104 and presses the back side 70b of the flexographic printing plate original 70, thereby removing the flexographic printing plate original 70 from the pin 37d.

[0209] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the installation of a flexible printing plate master in the unloading unit of a cleaning apparatus based on an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the disassembly of the flexible printing plate original of the unloading unit of the cleaning apparatus based on an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the back plate portion of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, in Figures 10-12 In the middle, to and Figures 1-3 The same structures of the cleaning device 10 shown are labeled with the same symbols, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0210] like Figure 10 As shown, a back plate portion 35 can be provided on the unloading portion 66 side of the front guide 37. When the pin 37d is extruded towards the pressing portion 102 of the mounting portion 65 through the back plate portion 35, since the mounting portion 37c of the front guide 37 is supported by the back plate portion 35, the displacement of the mounting portion 37c is suppressed when the pin 37d contacts the flexographic printing plate original 70, and the pin 37d stably penetrates the flexographic printing plate original 70, further reliably fixing the flexographic printing plate original 70 to the front guide 37.

[0211] And, as Figure 11 As shown, when a back panel portion 35 is provided, such as Figure 12 As shown, corresponding to the area of ​​the front guide 37 where there is no mounting portion 37c, an opening 35c is provided in the back plate portion 35. The extrusion portion 66 is arranged so that the extrusion portion 105 passes through the opening 35c.

[0212] (Developing Department)

[0213] The structure of the developing section 12 is not particularly limited as long as it can remove the unexposed portions (not shown) of the flexographic printing plate original 70 and perform development, and it is not limited to development using the brush 41 described later. The structure of the brush is also not particularly limited; in addition to the structure of the brush 41 described later, a rotary brush and a brush having a rotating axis parallel to the clamping roller 36 can also be used. In this case, a roller-shaped brush with bristles radially bundled relative to the rotating axis can be used. The structure and number of brushes in the developing section 12 are not particularly limited.

[0214] The developing section 12 includes, for example, a developing unit 40, which develops a flexible printing plate original 70 that is immersed in cleaning solution Q in the developing tank 13 and is in a conveying state.

[0215] In the developing section 12, fatigue developer Qw is generated in the developing tank 13 by developing based on the developing unit 40. The fatigue developer Qw refers to the cleaning liquid Q containing solids generated by removing unexposed portions (not shown) of the flexographic printing plate original 70 by developing with the aid of cleaning liquid Q. The developing section 12 performs development, for example, using the cleaning liquid Q stored in the developing tank 13.

[0216] In addition, the flexographic printing plate original that has had its unexposed areas removed through development is called the flexographic printing plate original after development is completed.

[0217] Here, Figure 13 This is a schematic top view illustrating an example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 This is a schematic side view illustrating an example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, Figure 15 This is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of the brush in the cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 16 This is a schematic top view showing the bristle side of the brush in the cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the brush in the rinsing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, in Figure 13 The illustration of a portion of the clamping roller 36 is omitted.

[0218] The developing unit 40 of the developing section 12 has a brush 41 used in developing and a control brush 41 around a rotation axis C (see reference). Figure 15 The drive unit 26 drives the rotation of the brush 41 and the movement of the brush 41. Figure 13 The developing unit 40 shown has two brushes 41. The two brushes 41 are arranged along the transport direction D of the flexographic printing plate 70. Furthermore, the rotation axis C of the brushes 41 (refer to...) Figure 15 The surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 is set in a vertical direction.

[0219] In the developing unit 40, two brushes 41 can be used simultaneously for developing. This increases the area rubbed by the brushes 41, suppressing the adhesion of developing residue and accelerating the developing speed while maintaining developing uniformity. In this case, the rotational speed of the multiple brushes 41 can be the same, or the rotational speed can be varied for each brush. Furthermore, the two brushes 41 can be the same size or different sizes.

[0220] Furthermore, when multiple brushes are used, for example, at least two brushes can be driven simultaneously by a single motor (instead of rotating each brush individually). Regarding the two brushes 41, at least two brushes 41 can be driven simultaneously by a single motor (instead of rotating each brush 41 individually). This reduces the number of motors, thereby enabling miniaturization of the device. Moreover, when multiple brushes are rotated by a single motor, the rotation rate for each brush 41 can be changed by providing a speed reducer. This reduces the number of motors, thereby enabling miniaturization of the device. Furthermore, when multiple brushes are rotated by a single motor, the rotation rate for each brush 41 can be changed by providing a speed reducer.

[0221] The rotation of brush 41 around the rotation axis C refers to the rotation of brush 41 with rotation axis C as the center of rotation; brush 41 rotates on its own axis. The rotation axis C is a fixed axis passing through point 1 inside brush 41. A rotation axis portion 45 is provided on brush 41, and the central axis of the rotation axis portion 45 is the rotation axis C. The rotation axis portion 45 functions as a rotation drive shaft that transmits power from the drive unit 26 to rotate. By rotating the rotation axis portion 45, brush 41 rotates, for example, along the rotation direction r.

[0222] The drive unit 26 rotates the brush 41 when the rotation axis C of the brush 41 passes through the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 (see reference). Figure 17 Furthermore, the drive unit 26 moves the rotation axis C of the brush 41 along at least one direction intersecting the rotation axis C. Additionally, unless otherwise specified, the rotation and movement of the brush 41 are controlled by the drive unit 26.

[0223] like Figure 13As shown, brush 41 is disposed on the surface 70a side of flexographic printing plate original 70. The first moving direction D1 of brush 41, which intersects the rotation axis C, is, for example, a direction DL orthogonal to the transport direction D. Brush 41 is structured to move along direction DL. Furthermore, brush 41 can also be structured to move in two directions relative to the rotation axis C. When moving in two directions, there is no particular limitation as long as there are two directions; they can be two directions intersecting the rotation axis C or two directions orthogonal to the rotation axis C. Specifically, for example, the first moving direction D1 can be set as direction DL, and the second moving direction D2 can be set as the transport direction D. If brush 41 can uniformly rub the entire area of ​​surface 70a of flexographic printing plate original 70, the moving direction of brush 41 is not particularly limited. If the structure allows brush 41 to move in two orthogonal directions, the entire area of ​​surface 70a of flexographic printing plate original 70 can be uniformly rubbed using brush 41, improving development uniformity. Furthermore, by moving the brush 41 in two orthogonal directions, the developing speed is also increased.

[0224] When two brushes 41 are arranged along the transport direction D of the flexographic printing plate 70, it is preferable to change at least one of the density and coarseness of the implanted bristles 41b in the first and second brushes 41. Brushes with high-density or coarse bristles will develop even within the same processing time, and the finishing state, such as individual small dots, which is related to print quality, may sometimes deteriorate. Therefore, when two or more brushes 41 are arranged along the transport direction D, it is preferable to arrange a type of brush that develops quickly first and a type of brush with excellent development quality as the brush in the latter half of the development process.

[0225] <Brush>

[0226] Brush 41 removes and develops the unexposed portions (not shown) of the flexographic printing plate original 70. Brush 41 is, for example, immersed in cleaning solution Q and positioned on the surface 70a side of the flexographic printing plate original 70 in the transport direction D within the developing tank 13. While the flexographic printing plate original 70 is being transported, brush 41 is driven by drive unit 26 along the rotation direction r (see reference). Figure 13 The plate is rotated, thereby rubbing the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70, and removing the unexposed portion (not shown) of the flexographic printing plate original 70 and developing it. During this development, the fatigue developer Qw described above is generated.

[0227] Since the brush 41 is immersed in and disposed of in the cleaning solution Q, the cleaning solution Q adhering to the brush 41 will not dry, which can prevent unexposed parts and the like removed by the brush 41 from adhering to the brush 41 as developing residue.

[0228] Regarding the brush 41, the area of ​​the brush 41 projected onto the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 is smaller than the surface area of ​​the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70. Therefore, development is performed by partially contacting the brush 41 with the entire width of the flexographic printing plate original 70. During development, because the brush 41 is small, in order to make the brush 41 rub the entire area of ​​the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 evenly, as described above, the brush 41 can be moved, for example, along the transport direction D and the direction DL, but it can also be a structure that moves only along the direction DL.

[0229] Furthermore, the movement path of the brush 41 is predetermined based on the size of the brush 41, the size of the flexographic printing plate 70, and the transport speed. Therefore, by pre-programming the movement path of the brush 41 in the drive unit 26, the brush 41 can be moved along the movement path by the drive unit 26 according to the program to perform development.

[0230] like Figure 15 As shown, the brush 41 is formed by the bristles 41b being bundled perpendicularly to the substrate 41a. The shape of the substrate 41a is the same as that of the brush 41. The substrate 41a is circular, for example, and is not particularly limited thereto.

[0231] A rotating shaft portion 45 is provided on the base 41a. Thus, the rotating shaft C is disposed within the brush 41. Furthermore, by adjusting the position of the rotating shaft portion 45, the position of the rotating shaft C can be adjusted within the brush 41. Figure 15 As shown, the rotating shaft portion 45a can also be provided at a location other than the center of the base 41a.

[0232] Here, the center of brush 41 refers to the center of the base 41a of brush 41, that is, the geometric center of the shape of the base 41a projected onto the plane. If the base 41a is circular, then the center of the circle becomes the center of brush 41. If the base 41a is rectangular, then the point where the diagonals of the rectangle intersect becomes the center of brush 41.

[0233] Furthermore, if the substrate 41a is circular, then the rotation axis C of the brush 41 passing through the center of the brush 41 means that the rotation axis C is arranged in such a way that it passes through the center of the substrate 41a. By arranging the rotation axis C through the center of the brush 41, the brush 41 can be made to contact the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 uniformly. Therefore, the uniformity of development is improved.

[0234] Furthermore, by arranging the rotation axis C around the center of the brush 41, the brush 41 rotates stably when it rotates on its own axis. Therefore, even if the rotation speed of the brush 41 is increased, it can still be rotated stably. As a result, the developing speed can be increased.

[0235] Furthermore, when multiple brushes 41 are arranged side by side, contact between the brushes 41 can be suppressed even if the spacing between the brushes 41 is reduced. Accordingly, the rotation axis C of the brush 41 preferably passes through the center of the brush 41.

[0236] Brush 41, for example, is a brush called a cup brush. Preferably, the bristles 41b of brush 41 are used to contact the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 at approximately perpendicular angles.

[0237] As described above, the brush 41 is smaller than the flexographic printing plate original 70. Because the brush 41 is small, moving the brush 41 relative to the flexographic printing plate original 70 for development can uniformize the pressure of the brush 41, thereby improving the uniformity of development.

[0238] Furthermore, by conveying the flexographic printing plate 70 while moving the brush 41 along the planar direction for development, the brush area required for development can be reduced, thus simplifying the cleaning device.

[0239] Furthermore, the size of the brush 41 is not particularly limited as long as it is smaller than the flexographic printing plate original 70. When the shape of the base 41a of the brush 41 is circular, the diameter DB is preferred (see reference). Figure 16 The diameter DB is 30mm to 500mm, more preferably 100mm to 400mm, and most preferably 200mm to 400mm.

[0240] Furthermore, when the shape of the base 41a of the brush 41 is a brush shape other than a circle, the diameter of the circle equivalent diameter, that is, the diameter equivalent to the area of ​​the brush, is taken as the diameter of the outer circle of the base 41a.

[0241] Furthermore, the brush 41 performs development by rotating, and the rotation speed of the brush 41 is preferably 10 rpm (revolutions per minute) to 2000 rpm, more preferably 20 to 800 rpm, and even more preferably 30 to 200 rpm.

[0242] By increasing the rotation speed of brush 41, as described above, the developing speed and developing uniformity can be improved.

[0243] Regarding the adhesion mechanism of developing residue, the following inference is made: During development, residue accumulates inside the brush 41 and is transferred to the flexographic printing plate 70 at a certain moment, thus adhering to the developing residue. Therefore, it is necessary to efficiently remove the developing residue from inside the brush 41 to the outside of the brush 41. Therefore, if the rotation speed of the brush 41 is high, the cleaning solution inside the brush 41 can be easily discharged to the outside of the brush 41 through rotation, thus efficiently removing the developing residue from inside the brush 41 to the outside of the brush 41.

[0244] Furthermore, the number of rotations of brush 41 is not limited to a fixed value, but can also be a value that can be changed. When the number of rotations of brush 41 can be changed, for example, the number of rotations can be predetermined from the beginning of development to the end of development, and development can be performed at the determined number of rotations.

[0245] The base 41a of the brush 41 retains the bristles 41b, for example, by embedding them in bundles. The base 41a is not particularly limited as long as it can retain the bristles 41b and is not deteriorated by the cleaning solution Q.

[0246] The material of the bristles of brush 41 is not particularly limited. As long as they can be made into fibers, natural fibers such as palm, metals, polyamides, polyesters, vinyl chloride, vinylidene chloride, polyimide, polyacrylonitrile, etc. can be preferred.

[0247] The fiber diameter of the brush bristles is preferably around 10 μm to 1 mm. They can be implanted in bundles or individually in groups of a few. The implantation spacing is preferably around 1 to 20 mm. When implanted in bundles, the diameter of the bundle is preferably around 1 to 10 mm. Furthermore, the bristle length hb (refer to...) Figure 15 , Figure 17 The bristles are preferably about 2 to 50 mm long, and more preferably 5 to 25 mm long. If the bristle length hb is 5 to 25 mm, it can pass through the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 for conveying, thereby increasing the brush force and achieving independent small dot performance, and also increasing the developing speed.

[0248] Furthermore, the length of the bristles in a brush 41 can vary, with the bristles in the center being preferred. Also, the thickness and density of the bristles in a brush 41 can vary.

[0249] The brush 41 has bristles 41b clustered within the substrate 41a. For example... Figure 16 As shown, a bristle 41b is provided in region 41e, excluding region 41d with a radius of 10 mm or less relative to the center of the base 41a. That is, preferably in region 41e with a radius d relative to the rotation axis C. B The 10mm region 41d is not provided with bristles 41b, while the region 41e, excluding region 41d, is provided with bristles 41b. Thus, the brush 41 is preferably positioned at a radius d relative to the rotation axis C. B The area within 10mm 41d is not equipped with burrs 41b, while the area within radius d is not equipped with burrs 41b. B Area 41e exceeding 10mm is set with hair 41b.

[0250] In brush 41, if bristles 41b are provided in area 41e other than the area 41d with a radius of 10mm, it is easier to remove developing residue during developing and the rotation speed is also faster, resulting in independent small dot performance, which is therefore preferred.

[0251] To maintain the developing speed, the brush 41 preferably has bristles 41b in an area of ​​30% or more of the substrate 41a. The area of ​​bristles 41b in an area of ​​30% or more of the substrate 41a of the brush 41 is referred to as the area of ​​bristles being 30%.

[0252] As described above, brush 41 is driven by drive unit 26 (reference) Figure 1 The brush 41 rotates with its rotation axis C passing through the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 (see reference). Figure 17 In this case, such as Figure 17 As shown, when the angle between the rotation axis C and the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 is set to θ, the angle θ is preferably 30°≤θ≤90°, more preferably 45°≤θ≤90°, and most preferably 60°≤θ≤90°. By setting the angle θ to 60°≤θ≤90°, the brush 41 can be made to contact the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 evenly, and development can be performed even when the pressure of the brush 41 is increased. Therefore, it is possible to achieve both uniform development and development speed. Thus, the rotation axis C of the brush 41 is most preferably perpendicular to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70.

[0253] The angle θ can be obtained as follows. First, an image of the brush 41 positioned on the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 is obtained, and from the image, a line corresponding to the rotation axis C of the brush 41 and a line corresponding to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 are obtained. Next, the angle between these two lines is calculated. Thus, the angle θ can be obtained.

[0254] In addition, the state in which the rotation axis C of the brush 41 passes through the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 refers to the surface after the rotation axis C or the extended rotation axis C passes through the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 or the expanded surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70, indicating the configuration relationship between the brush 41 and the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0255] Therefore, depending on the tilt angle of the rotation axis C, the rotation axis C of the brush 41 sometimes does not pass through the surface 70a of the actual flexographic printing plate original 70, and is not limited to the actual passage of the rotation axis C of the brush 41 through the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 as described above.

[0256] Furthermore, the position of the brush 41 relative to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 can be fixed. It can also be configured to move closer to or further away from the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70. Since the brush 41 can move closer to or further away from the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70, the pressure of the brush 41 on the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 can be adjusted. This allows for an increase in the pressure of the brush 41 and an increase in the developing speed.

[0257] Furthermore, when increasing the pressure of the brush 41, it is preferable that the material, length, and thickness of the bristles 41b of the brush 41 correspond to the pressure. In a brush 41, the bristles in the center portion can be lengthened, or the thickness of the bristles can be changed, or the density of the bristles can be changed.

[0258] Furthermore, since the brush 41 can separate from the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70, the brush 41 can be lifted off the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70. As a result, when developing residue adhered to the brush 41, the developing residue can be removed from the brush 41.

[0259] Regarding the movement of brush 41, it can be kept constantly moving during development, or it can be rotated only when the flexographic printing plate original 70 is transported to the developing tank 13. In this case, for example, by placing a sensor (not shown) that detects the flexographic printing plate original 70 above the developing tank 13, the arrival time of brush 41 can be determined using the transport timing and speed of the flexographic printing plate original 70, and brush 41 can be rotated for development.

[0260] Furthermore, for example, the outer surface of the flexographic printing plate 70 and the area above the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 can be used as the retraction portion of the brush 41. The movement of the brush 41 toward the retraction portion is performed by the drive unit 26, which retracts the brush 41 from the flexographic printing plate 70. By retracting the brush 41 from the flexographic printing plate 70, the adhesion of developing residue can be suppressed, which is therefore preferable.

[0261] When the exterior of the flexographic printing plate 70 is used as the retraction area, compared to the case where the brush 41 is only lifted off the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 and retracted, the developing residue is less likely to re-adhere to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70, and the adhesion of developing residue can be further suppressed.

[0262] Alternatively, when removing developing residue, the structure can be configured such that, in addition to moving the brush 41 to the retraction position, retraction conditions such as developing time and developing area are preset. When the retraction conditions are met, the brush 41 moves to the retraction position. In this case, for example, by placing a sensor (not shown) that detects the flexographic printing plate 70 above the developing tank 13 and preset the retraction conditions for the drive unit 26, the amount of flexographic printing plate 70 fed into the system can be determined by using the conveying time and conveying speed of the flexographic printing plate 70 to control the retraction of the brush 41.

[0263] Furthermore, in order to efficiently discharge the developing residue inside the brush 41 to the outside of the brush 41, cleaning fluid can be supplied to the brush 41 at the retractable part of the brush 41 to discharge the developing residue to the outside of the brush 41.

[0264] (Rinsing section)

[0265] The rinsing section 14 uses a rinsing solution such as a cleaning solution to remove latex and rubber residues from the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 after development, which is then removed from the developing section 12. The process of removing latex and rubber residues from the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 using a rinsing solution such as a cleaning solution in the rinsing section 14 is called the rinsing process.

[0266] The developed flexographic printing plate 70 is transported from the developing section 12 to the outside of the developing tank 13 and processed by the washing section 14.

[0267] The rinsing unit 14, for example, includes a supply unit 22 that supplies the fatigue developer Qw processed by the processing unit 18 to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70. The fatigue developer Qw processed by the processing unit 18 is supplied to the supply unit 22 via piping 20. The supply unit 22 is a nozzle that supplies the cleaning solution Q to at least the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 where the unexposed portions have been removed. The rinsing solution may also be water, other than the cleaning solution and the fatigue developer Qw described above.

[0268] The supply unit 22 preferably has a spray nozzle. The type of spray nozzle is not particularly limited; for example, it can be a single-fluid type that uses only liquid or a two-fluid type that uses both liquid and air.

[0269] The rinsing unit 14, for example, applies the fatigue developer Qw processed by the processing unit 18 as a cleaning fluid Q from the supply unit 22, for example, in a spray form, to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 after development, thereby rinsing away the aforementioned residues. The fatigue developer Qw supplied from the supply unit 22 and the rinsed-away residues accumulate in the developing tank 13.

[0270] Preferably, the rinsing section 14 is configured to supply rinsing liquid to a liquid film formed by the cleaning liquid remaining on the flexographic printing plate original 70 after development is completed and removed from the developing section 12.

[0271] Because it is easy for the liquid film formed by the cleaning solution to flow into the developing tank 13 together with the rinsing solution, the position of the rinsing solution is preferably 50 cm or less from the liquid surface of the cleaning solution, more preferably 30 cm or less, and even more preferably 15 cm or less.

[0272] By allowing the used rinsing solution supplied from the rinsing unit 14 to flow into the developing tank 13, the overall waste liquid volume can be reduced. In particular, the effect of reducing waste liquid volume is greater when the transport path is vertical. Therefore, it is also preferable to allow the used rinsing solution to flow into the developing tank 13 during the rinsing process.

[0273] The preferred amount of rinsing liquid supplied per unit area to the flexographic printing plate original to which the rinsing liquid is supplied is 0.3 to 7 kg / m². 2 Spray, preferably 0.5~4kg / m 2 By setting the supply rate of the above-mentioned flushing fluid to 0.3 kg / m³ 2 The above methods can reliably remove the aforementioned residues remaining on the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 after development. On the other hand, by setting the supply rate of the rinsing solution to 7 kg / m³... 2 The amount of rinsing fluid flowing into the developing tank 13 is reduced, thereby reducing the amount of waste liquid.

[0274] As the rinsing fluid, the supplied cleaning fluid Q can be a freshly prepared cleaning fluid Q in another tank (not shown). In this case, as... Figure 1 As shown, a supply pipe 21a is connected to the piping 20, and a valve 21b is installed on the supply pipe 21a, which is connected to the flushing fluid supply unit 21. The flushing fluid supply unit 21 stores the cleaning fluid Q and supplies the cleaning fluid Q to the supply unit 22 at a specific flow rate. The flushing fluid is the cleaning fluid Q.

[0275] During the rinsing process, the cleaning fluid Q is supplied from the rinsing fluid supply unit 21 to the supply unit 22 via valve 21b and supply pipe 21a.

[0276] (Processing Department)

[0277] The processing unit 18 removes the solids 23 from the fatigue developer Qw, which contains solids 23 generated during the development process using the cleaning solution Q to remove unexposed portions. Furthermore, the fatigue developer Qw containing solids 23 refers to a state in which solids 23 are dissolved or dispersed.

[0278] Furthermore, the treated fatigue developer Qw refers to the fatigue developer Qw in which the solids 23 contained in the fatigue developer Qw have been removed.

[0279] In the processing unit 18, the solids 23 removed from the fatigue developing solution Qw are recovered by the receiving tray 19 located below the processing unit 18.

[0280] On the other hand, the fatigue developer Qw from which solids 23 have been removed, i.e., the treated fatigue developer Qw described above, is supplied to the supply unit 22 via piping 20 and used in the rinsing unit 14. A pump (not shown) is used, for example, in the supply of the treated fatigue developer Qw from the processing unit 18 to the supply unit 22.

[0281] By providing the processing unit 18, the fatigue developer Qw can be reused, thus enabling the effective use of the cleaning solution Q and improving the utilization efficiency of the cleaning solution Q.

[0282] The structure of the processing unit 18 is not particularly limited as long as it can remove solids 23 from the fatigue developer Qw as described above; for example, it can be composed of a centrifugal separator.

[0283] Furthermore, a separation membrane 24 for removing solids 23 from the fatigue developer Qw can be installed on the piping 20. The separation membrane 24 is not particularly limited as long as it can separate the solids contained in the fatigue developer Qw, and can be appropriately determined according to the size of the solids to be separated; for example, a ceramic filter can be used. Preferably, the separation membrane 24 can separate solids with a particle size of 1 μm or less.

[0284] Furthermore, the separation membrane 24 is not necessarily required, and the structure can be without the separation membrane 24. However, it is preferable to pass the fatigue developer Qw through the separation membrane 24, because the concentration of solids in the fatigue developer Qw supplied to the rinsing section 14 can be further reduced, and a fatigue developer Qw with a low concentration of solids can be used in the rinsing section 14.

[0285] Furthermore, the separation membrane 24 can also be used as the processing unit 18. In this case, for example, the centrifuge described above is not required, and only the separation membrane 24 is used.

[0286] Furthermore, the processing unit 18 is not necessarily required, and the structure may be without a processing unit 18. In this case, for example, cleaning fluid Q may be used in the rinsing unit 14.

[0287] Here, the higher the concentration of solids in the fatigue developer Qw, the more adhesive the developing residue becomes, and the easier it is to contaminate the equipment. Therefore, the lower the concentration of solids in the fatigue developer Qw, the better it is at suppressing equipment contamination, thus resulting in excellent maintainability. Therefore, it is preferable to provide a solids removal processing unit 18.

[0288] (Cleaning method)

[0289] Next, the cleaning method for the flexographic printing plate original 70 using the cleaning device 10 will be described.

[0290] Figures 18-23 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the developing process of a cleaning apparatus based on an embodiment of the present invention, arranged in the order of the processes. Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the mounting method of the flexographic printing plate original in the cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, in Figures 18-24 In the middle, to and Figures 1-3 The same structures as those in the cleaning device 10 shown are labeled with the same symbols, and their detailed descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, in Figures 18-24 The illustrations are omitted in order to illustrate the fixing, disassembly, and transport of the flexographic printing plate original of the cleaning device.

[0291] First, the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 is imaged and exposed using an exposure device (not shown), that is, exposed with a specific pattern.

[0292] In the cleaning device 10, for example, the front guide 37 is fixed by being wrapped around the fixing part 31b of each of a pair of conveyor chains 31. For example, the rear guide 38 is fixed to the fixing part 31b of the conveyor chain 31 using a magnet. Thus, the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 are conveyed on the conveying path via the conveying part 11.

[0293] Next, as Figure 18 As shown, for example, staff member H m The original flexible printing plate 70, after imaging and exposure, is placed in the feeding device 60. At this time, the front guide 37 is placed in the loading / unloading station E. m At loading and unloading station E m The pin 37d of the front guide 37 is opposite to the pressing part 102 of the plate mounting part 65. The position of the front guide 37 is detected by the sensor 63 and adjusted by the transport drive part 32.

[0294] The flexographic printing plate original 70 is fed from the feeding device 60 through the guide 61 toward the front guide 37.

[0295] Next, in the mounting section 65, the pressing section 102 is moved toward the pin 37d by the driving section 100, pressing the pressing section 102 from the surface 70a side of the flexographic printing plate original 70 into the pin 37d, so that the pin 37d penetrates the flexographic printing plate original 70. As a result, the flexographic printing plate original 70 is fixed to the front guide 37.

[0296] Next, the flexographic printing plate 70 is fixed to the front guide 37, as follows: Figure 19As shown, lowering the steering lever 34a moves the front guide 37 via the delivery drive unit 32, causing the rear guide 38 to move to a position where the pin 38d is opposite the press-in part 102. In this case, the rear guide 38 is detected by the sensor 62.

[0297] With the steering lever 34a lowered, as Figure 24 As shown, the flexographic printing plate 70 has a shorter conveying path than the conveyor chain 31 in the section without the steering rod 34a, which is called a short path state. In this state, the tension of the flexographic printing plate 70 is small, and the flexographic printing plate 70 can be easily installed and removed from the rear guide 38.

[0298] Next, in the mounting section 65, the pressing part 102 is moved toward the pin 38d by the driving part 100, pressing the pressing part 102 from the surface 70a side of the flexographic printing plate original 70 into the pin 38d, so that the pin 38d penetrates the flexographic printing plate original 70. Thus, the flexographic printing plate original 70 is fixed to the rear end guide 38. In this manner, the front end of the flexographic printing plate original 70 is fixed to the front end guide 37, and the rear end is fixed to the rear end guide 38. With the flexographic printing plate original 70 fixed to the front end guide 37 and the rear end guide 38, as... Figure 20 As shown, raising the steering lever 34a from its lowered state applies tension to the flexographic printing plate 70. This fixes the flexographic printing plate 70 to the guide. With the flexographic printing plate 70 fixed to the guide, a force is applied along the length extension direction of the flexographic printing plate 70 to fix it. Then, the tension applied to the flexographic printing plate 70 is greater than the tension required to fix the flexographic printing plate 70 to the guide. Figure 19 The guide shown applies tension to the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0299] Next, as Figure 21 As shown, the flexographic printing plate 70 is conveyed along the conveying path Dp via the conveying unit 11. While the flexographic printing plate 70 is immersed in the cleaning solution Q and being conveyed, as described above, the unexposed portions of the flexographic printing plate 70 are removed using the brush 41 of the developing unit 40, and development is performed. During this developing process, while conveying the flexographic printing plate 70, the brush 41 is rotated, for example, with the rotation axis C of the two brushes 41 passing through the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70, and the rotation axis C of the brush 41 is moved in at least one direction intersecting the rotation axis C. The operation of the brush 41 is as described above, therefore its detailed description is omitted. During the developing process, fatigue developing solution Qw is generated.

[0300] Then, the flexographic printing plate 70 leaves the developing tank 13. While the flexographic printing plate 70 is being transported, the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 is treated with fatigue developer Qw by the processing unit 18 by the supply unit 22 to remove residues from the surface 70a. Then, the flexographic printing plate 70 is transported until it passes through the rinsing unit 14. If development is performed once, at that point, the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 are released from their fasteners and the flexographic printing plate 70 is removed from the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 as described later. If development is performed multiple times, the flexographic printing plate 70 is circulated and transported, and then transported back to the developing unit 12 for development. The developing and rinsing processes are repeated until a predetermined number of times is reached.

[0301] For example, after the developing process is completed, such as Figure 22 As shown, the rear guide 38 is moved to the loading / unloading station E of the flexographic printing plate original 70. m In the plate removal section 66, the extrusion section 105, located in the area where the mounting section 38c is not provided, is protruded from its initial position along the length of the pin 38d by the drive section 104, pressing against the back surface 70b of the flexographic printing plate original 70, thereby removing the flexographic printing plate original 70 from the pin 38d. As a result, the fixation is released, and the flexographic printing plate original 70 is removed from the rear guide 38.

[0302] Next, as Figure 23 As shown, lowering the steering lever 34a reduces the tension of the flexographic printing plate original 70. In this case, as described above, the flexographic printing plate original 70 becomes the so-called short path (see reference). Figure 24 In this state, the tension of the flexographic printing plate original 70 is small.

[0303] Next, the extrusion section 105 presses down on the flexographic printing plate 70 to guide the guide 61. Then, the extrusion section 105 is returned to its initial position.

[0304] Next, the conveyor chain 31 is driven by the conveyor drive unit 32, causing the front guide 37 to move in the opposite direction to the conveying direction D, thereby transferring the flexographic printing plate original 70 to the belt conveyor 60c of the feeding device 60. Then, the belt conveyor 60c is rotated by rotating the drive roller 60a, thereby placing the flexographic printing plate original 70 onto the belt conveyor 60c. When the front guide 37 moves to... Figure 18 Loading and unloading station E shown m When this happens, the drive conveyor chain 31 stops. Additionally, sensor 63 detects that the front guide 37 has moved... Figure 18 Loading and unloading station E shown m .

[0305] In the unloading section 66, the extrusion section 105, located in the area where the mounting section 37c is not provided, is protruded from its initial position along the length of the pin 37d by the drive section 104, pressing against the back surface 70b of the flexographic printing plate original 70, thereby removing the flexographic printing plate original 70 from the pin 37d. As a result, the fixing is released, the flexographic printing plate original 70 is disassembled from the front guide 37, and the belt conveyor 60c of the feeding device 60 rotates, placing the flexographic printing plate original 70 onto the belt conveyor 60c. (By operator H) m The original flexographic printing plate 70, which has undergone development treatment, is recovered from the belt conveyor 60c.

[0306] By setting the conveying path Dp around the circulating frame 15, as in the cleaning device 10, the installation area can be reduced compared to a cleaning device that conveys the flexographic printing plate original 70 in one direction.

[0307] By changing the size of component 15a and beam component 15b of frame 15, the size of flexographic printing plate original 70 can be matched, so that even if flexographic printing plate original 70 becomes larger, the structure of cleaning device 10 will not become complicated.

[0308] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, by setting the frame 15 in an upright position and conveying the flexographic printing plate 70 perpendicularly to the liquid surface of the cleaning solution Q in the developing tank 13, and by placing the frame 15 from... Figure 1 Compared to the state shown, which is rotated 90°, the grounding area can be reduced, thereby saving space. Furthermore, even if the transport path Dp becomes longer, the cleaning device 10 will not become larger, further reducing the grounding area and saving space. Additionally, when the frame 15 is rotated from... Figure 1 When developing the device with the frame 15 rotated 90° as shown, it is necessary to increase the area immersed in the cleaning solution Q and also to enlarge the developing tank 13. However, even when the frame 15 is rotated from the position shown... Figure 1 Even when rotated 90° as shown, the volume of the cleaning device 10 is still small. Therefore, the cleaning device 10 has a small structure regardless of the configuration of the frame 15, thus achieving space saving.

[0309] Furthermore, the process of conveying the flexographic printing plate 70 vertically relative to the surface of the cleaning solution Q in the developing tank 13 is referred to as longitudinal conveying.

[0310] Furthermore, when the flexographic printing plate original 70 is removed from the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38, it is removed from pins 37d and 38d, thus preventing bending. Moreover, even when the flexographic printing plate original 70 is immersed in cleaning solution Q, since no adhesive layer is used, it will not detach, allowing for stable development and other treatments of the flexographic printing plate original.

[0311] With the flexographic printing plate 70 fixed to the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 and tensioned by the tension-applying unit, it is conveyed while being developed using a cleaning solution. Therefore, tension fluctuations in the flexographic printing plate 70 can be suppressed, and development processing can be performed under stable tension, thereby enabling stable development and other processing of the flexographic printing plate.

[0312] Additionally, by setting relative to Figure 6 The guide mechanism 39, which extends and retracts in the traveling direction of the flexographic printing plate original 70, allows for development processing under more stable tension. This enables more stable development and other processing of the flexographic printing plate original.

[0313] In the cleaning device 10, a conveyor chain 31 is used to transport the flexographic printing plate original 70, so the device structure does not become complicated and the maintainability is excellent.

[0314] Furthermore, by performing the developing process while the flexographic printing plate 70 is being transported, the brushes can be miniaturized, thereby improving cleaning productivity. In conventional methods where only the brushes are movable and the printing plate is fixed, it is necessary to prepare brushes with a wide area corresponding to the size of the printing plate, or, when using small brushes, it is necessary to increase the number of brushes or increase the brush's operating range. When transporting the printing plate, even with small brushes, the same processing capacity can be obtained. Moreover, by adding brushes to the straight transport path Dps and the curved transport path Dpc (turning section) in the processing liquid (not shown), the processing time is shortened by an amount equivalent to the increase in the number of brushes, thus accelerating the transport speed of the printing plate and increasing the productivity of the cleaning device 10.

[0315] Furthermore, by developing the flexographic printing plate 70 in the cleaning solution Q, the adhesion of developing residue to the brush 41 can be suppressed, thereby reducing the frequency of maintenance. As a result, the maintenance load can be reduced, and the maintainability of the cleaning device 10 is excellent.

[0316] In addition, since the frequency of maintenance can be reduced, the monthly or annual average development process can be increased, and from this point of view, the productivity of the cleaning device 10 is also high.

[0317] (Other structures of the transport section and developing unit)

[0318] Furthermore, the structure of the transport unit 11 and the developing unit 40 is not limited to the above structure, and can also be configured with other structures.

[0319] Here, Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 26This is a schematic top view illustrating another example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0320] In addition, Figure 25 and Figure 26 In the middle, to and Figure 13 The same structures as the developing section 12 shown are labeled with the same symbols, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0321] For example, such as Figure 25 As shown in the developing unit 40 of the developing section 12, a plurality of guide rollers 42 can be arranged in a position opposite to the brush 41 clamping the flexographic printing plate 70 to replace the back plate section 35 (see reference). Figure 1 Each guide roller 42 is capable of rotation. By configuring the guide rollers 42, and the back plate portion 35 (see reference...) Figure 1 Similarly, when the brush 41 removes the unexposed portions, the back side 70b of the flexographic printing plate 70 is supported by the guide roller 42, which enables efficient and good removal of the unexposed portions. Furthermore, the guide roller 42 functions as a transport guide for the flexographic printing plate 70, enabling more stable transport of the flexographic printing plate 70.

[0322] Furthermore, each guide roller 42, like the back plate portion 35, can be made of metals such as stainless steel and titanium. The surface of the guide roller 42, like that of the back plate portion 35, can undergo surface treatments such as hard chrome plating, diamond-like carbon (DLC), or titanium nitride (TiN).

[0323] Furthermore, although the structure is designed with two brushes 41, it is not limited to this, such as... Figure 26 As shown, a single brush 41 can also be used. In this case, for example, when the first moving direction D1 is set as direction DL and the second moving direction D2 is set as the conveying direction D, the brush 41 moves in two directions orthogonal to the rotation axis C. However, it is also possible to have a structure that makes it move only in the first moving direction D1, i.e., direction DL.

[0324] As described above, the brush 41 is smaller than the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70, thus the brush 41 is partially in contact with the entire width of the flexographic printing plate original 70 for development. As described above, during development, because the brush 41 is small, it is moved, for example, in two orthogonal directions. Alternatively, the structure could be such that, in addition to moving the brush 41 in two orthogonal directions, it is also moved in at least one direction intersecting the rotation axis, such as direction DL. In this way, by moving the brush 41, development can be performed efficiently with a small brush 41.

[0325] Furthermore, during development, if the brush 41 can evenly rub the entire area of ​​the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70, the direction of movement of the brush 41 is not particularly limited.

[0326] Furthermore, the movement path of brush 41 is predetermined based on the size of brush 41, the size of the flexographic printing plate 70, and the transport speed. Therefore, by programming the movement path of brush 41, development can be performed according to the program.

[0327] The structure of the developing unit 40 of the developing section 12 is not limited to the structure described above, and may also be the structure shown below.

[0328] Here, Figures 27-29 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the developing section of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, in Figures 27-29 In the middle, to and Figure 13 The same structures as the developing section 12 shown are labeled with the same symbols, and their detailed descriptions are omitted. Figures 27-29 The diagram shows a structure where brush 41 is a single unit, but... Figures 27-29 The developing unit 40 shown can also be used in structures with two brushes 41, or in structures with three or more brushes 41.

[0329] As will be described later, drive unit 26 (reference) Figure 1 A drive shaft 27 is connected to the brush 41. To transmit the rotational force of the drive shaft 27 of the drive unit 26 to the rotation shaft C of the brush 41, a shaft connector 80 is provided, connecting the drive shaft 27 of the drive unit 26 and the rotation shaft 45 of the brush 41, and adjusting the angle of the rotation shaft C of the brush 41 relative to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70. The angle of the rotation shaft C of the brush 41 is adjusted by the shaft connector 80, so that the front end face 41c of the brush 41 is arranged parallel to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0330] Figure 27 The shaft connector section 80 shown is a component referred to as a ball joint. A first component 82 and a second component 84 are connected to the shaft connector section 80 via a ball 85. The first component 82 and the second component 84 are movable relative to each other via the ball 85.

[0331] The first component 82 is connected to the rotating shaft portion 45 of the brush 41. The second component 84 is connected to the drive shaft portion 27. For example, a pulley 29 is provided at the end of the drive shaft portion 27 on the opposite side of the second component 84. A pulley 29b is arranged opposite to the pulley 29, and a drive belt 29a is wound on the pulleys 29 and 29b. A drive unit 26 is connected to the pulley 29b. If the pulley 29b rotates through the drive unit 26, the pulley 29 rotates, thereby driving the shaft portion 27 to rotate. The rotational force of the drive shaft portion 27 is transmitted to the rotating shaft portion 45 via the shaft connector portion 80, causing the brush 41 to rotate.

[0332] As described above, the first component 82 and the second component 84 move relative to each other via the ball 85, thus changing the angle of rotation of the rotation axis C of the brush 41's rotation shaft 45 relative to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70. This allows the orientation of the tip face 41c of the brush 41 to be changed, enabling the tip face 41c of the brush 41 to be arranged parallel to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70. Consequently, development can be performed with the tip face 41c of the brush 41 in uniform contact with the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70, and development can be performed efficiently and even more effectively by suppressing contact at one end.

[0333] Furthermore, even if the rotation axis C of the brush 41 is tilted due to the device structure, the drive shaft Dc can be made horizontal through the shaft connector 80.

[0334] Furthermore, the shaft connector portion 80 is not limited to Figure 27 The structure shown can also utilize universal joints, flexible couplings, and floating joints. Furthermore, for example, it can also be used as... Figure 28 The shaft connector section 81 is shown. Additionally, in... Figure 28 In the middle, to and Figure 27 Structures that are identical to those shown are labeled with the same symbol, and their detailed descriptions are omitted. Figure 28 The shaft connector 81 shown has the same characteristics as the shaft connector 81, except for the structural difference. Figure 27 The shaft connector section 80 shown has the same function.

[0335] Figure 28 The shaft connector portion 81 shown has, for example, a first flange 86, a second flange 87, and two elastic members 88 and 89. The first flange 86 and the second flange 87 are arranged opposite each other, and two elastic members 88 and 89 are provided between the first flange 86 and the second flange 87. The two elastic members 88 and 89 are, for example, springs.

[0336] The first flange 86 and the second flange 87 can move relative to each other through the displacement of two elastic components 88 and 89.

[0337] The first flange 86 is connected to the rotating shaft portion 45 of the brush 41. The second flange 87 is connected to the drive shaft portion 27.

[0338] As described above, the first flange 86 and the second flange 87 move relative to each other via two elastic members 88 and 89, thereby changing the angle of rotation of the rotation axis C of the brush 41's rotation shaft 45 relative to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70. This allows the orientation of the tip face 41c of the brush 41 to be changed, enabling the tip face 41c of the brush 41 to be arranged parallel to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70. Development can be performed with the tip face 41c of the brush 41 in uniform contact with the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70, and development can be performed efficiently and even more effectively by suppressing contact at one end.

[0339] Furthermore, even if the rotation axis C of the brush 41 is tilted due to the device structure, the drive shaft Dc can be made horizontal through the shaft connector 80.

[0340] Furthermore, by providing two elastic members 88 and 89 in a contracted state, for example, when no force is applied, the first flange 86 and the second flange 87 are subjected to a force of relative separation. As a result, the first flange 86 displaces towards the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70, thereby pressing the front end face 41c of the brush 41 against the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70. Additionally, the two elastic members 88 and 89 are not limited to springs; they can also be rubber or elastomers. The number of elastic members is not limited to two; it can be one or more, depending on the force acting on the brush 41.

[0341] And, as Figure 29 As shown, it can also have a structure with a pressing part 90 that presses the front end face 41c of the brush 41 against the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70. Additionally, in Figure 29 In the middle, to and Figure 27 Structures that are identical to those shown are labeled with the same symbol, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0342] For example, the pressing part 90 presses the drive shaft part 27 against the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 to press the front end face 41c of the brush 41 against the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0343] A drive belt 29a is wound around a pulley 29 disposed on the drive shaft portion 27 and a pulley 29b disposed opposite to the pulley 29. A drive portion 26 is connected to the pulley 29b, and the pulley 29b rotates via the drive portion 26. The pulley 29, drive belt 29a, and pulley 29b are housed in a housing 92. An elastic member 94 is provided on the pulley 29b side of the housing 92, for example, in a contracted state where no force is applied. The end of the elastic member 94 on the opposite side of the housing 92 is fixed to a fixed wall 95. Through the elastic member 94, the housing 92 is pressed against the flexographic printing plate original 70 side, and the front end face 41c of the brush 41 is pressed against the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 via the drive shaft portion 27 and the shaft connector portion 80.

[0344] By providing a pressing part 90 in addition to the shaft connector part 80, the front end face 41c of the brush 41 can be pressed against the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 in a state where the front end face 41c of the brush 41 is arranged parallel to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70. Therefore, development can be performed while the front end face 41c of the brush 41 is uniformly pressed against the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70, and development can be performed more efficiently and even more effectively.

[0345] exist Figure 29 In, it was used Figure 27 The shaft connector portion 80 shown is not limited to this; other types can also be used. Figure 28 In addition to the shaft connector section 81 shown, as described above, universal joints, flexible couplings, and floating joints can also be used.

[0346] (Another example of a cleaning method)

[0347] Next, another example of a cleaning method for the flexographic printing plate original 70 using the cleaning device 10 will be described.

[0348] First, the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 is imaged and exposed using an exposure device (not shown), that is, exposed with a specific pattern.

[0349] Next, the front guide 37 is fixed by attaching it to the fixing part 31b of each of the pair of conveyor chains 31. For example, the rear guide 38 is fixed to the fixing part 31b of the conveyor chain 31 using a magnet. Then, as described above, the front end of the flexographic printing plate original 70 is fixed to the front guide 37, and the rear end is fixed to the rear guide 38.

[0350] The flexographic printing plate 70 is conveyed along the conveying path Dp via the conveying unit 11. While the flexographic printing plate 70 is immersed in the cleaning solution Q and being conveyed, the unexposed portions of the flexographic printing plate 70 are removed by the brush 41 of the developing unit 40, and development is performed. During this developing process, while conveying the flexographic printing plate 70, the brush 41 is rotated, for example, with the rotation axis C of the two brushes 41 passing through the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70, as described above, and the rotation axis C of the brush 41 is moved in at least one direction intersecting the rotation axis C. The operation of the brush 41 is as described above, therefore its detailed description is omitted. During the developing process, fatigue developer Qw is generated.

[0351] In addition, using the above Figure 27 The shaft connector part 80 shown and Figure 28 In the development process, the shaft connector 81 shown adjusts the angle of the rotation axis C of the brush 41 relative to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 so that the front end face 41c of the brush 41 is arranged parallel to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70. This allows development to be performed with the front end face 41c of the brush 41 arranged parallel to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70.

[0352] In addition to the above Figure 27 The shaft connector part 80 shown and Figure 28 In addition to the shaft connector portion 81 shown, further through the above... Figure 29 The pressing part 90 shown presses the front end face 41c of the brush 41 against the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 during the developing process. This allows developing to be performed with the front end face 41c of the brush 41 arranged parallel to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 and with the front end face 41c of the brush 41 pressed against the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70.

[0353] Then, the flexographic printing plate 70, after development, is removed from the developing tank 13, i.e., from the developing section 12. While the flexographic printing plate 70 is being transported, residues on the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70 are removed by applying fatigue developer Qw, processed by the processing section 18, to the surface 70a via the supply section 22. The flexographic printing plate 70 is then transported until it passes through the rinsing section 14. If development is performed once, at that point, as described above, the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 are released, and the flexographic printing plate 70 is transferred to the feeding device 60 and removed from the cleaning device 10. If development is performed multiple times, the flexographic printing plate 70 is circulated and transported, then transported back to the developing section 12 for development. The developing and rinsing processes are repeated until a predetermined number of times is reached. Next, as described above, the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 are released, and the flexographic printing plate 70 is transferred to the feeding device 60 and removed from the cleaning device 10.

[0354] Furthermore, in the cleaning apparatus 10, development is performed while the flexographic printing plate original 70 is immersed in the cleaning solution Q, but it is not limited to this; development can also be performed while the cleaning solution Q is supplied to the brush 41. In this case, the structure of the brush 41 can be, for example, as shown in... Figure 30 As shown, a brush 41 may be provided with a supply pipe 47. The supply pipe 47 is connected to a supply section 46 that supplies cleaning fluid Q. The cleaning fluid Q is supplied from the supply section 46 to the brush 41 through the supply pipe 47, and the cleaning fluid Q is supplied between the brush 41 and the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70.

[0355] And, as Figure 31 As shown, the supply pipe 47 can also be provided outside the brush 41 to supply cleaning fluid Q between the brush 41 and the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70. In this case, development can be performed while supplying cleaning fluid Q from the supply section 46 to the brush 41 through the supply pipe 47.

[0356] It is preferable to supply the cleaning solution Q while developing, as this can inhibit the adhesion of developing residue.

[0357] (Another structure of the developing unit)

[0358] Figures 32-35 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the developing unit of the cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, in Figures 32-35 In the middle, to and Figures 1-3 The same structures as those in the cleaning device 10 shown are labeled with the same symbols, and their detailed descriptions are omitted. Additionally, in Figures 32-35 The clamping roller 36 is omitted from the diagram (reference). Figure 1 ).

[0359] like Figure 32 As shown, the developing section 12 (reference) Figure 1 The developing unit 40 (reference) Figure 1 The structure can be configured by arranging multiple brushes 41, for example, four brushes 41, in a row along the direction DL. The four brushes 41 are connected to the drive unit 26, which controls the rotation of the brushes 41 around the rotation axis C and the movement of the brushes 41.

[0360] Developing can be performed simultaneously using four brushes 41. This increases the surface area rubbed by the brushes 41, suppressing the adhesion of developing residue and accelerating the developing speed while maintaining developing uniformity. In this case, the rotation speed of the multiple brushes 41 can be the same, or the rotation speed can be varied for each brush. Furthermore, the four brushes 41 can be the same size or different sizes. However, from the viewpoint of suppressing developing unevenness, it is preferable that the four brushes 41 have the same size and rotation speed.

[0361] Furthermore, it is preferable to move the four brushes 41 along the width direction of the flexographic printing plate 70, i.e., in a direction orthogonal to the transport direction D. That is, it is preferable to oscillate the multiple brushes 41 along the direction DL. In this case, it is preferable to move the brushes 41 by a diameter DB (refer to...) Figure 16 The distance that will cause brush 41 to move along direction DL is called the swing width Mb.

[0362] As described above, by oscillating the brush 41 along the direction DL, uneven development can be suppressed. This is achieved by setting the oscillation width Mb to the diameter DB of the brush 41 (see reference). Figure 16 A distance of more than 1 / 3 of the distance can further suppress uneven development, therefore it is preferred.

[0363] Furthermore, when multiple brushes are used, for example, at least four brushes can be driven simultaneously by a single motor (instead of rotating each brush individually). Regarding the four brushes 41, at least four brushes 41 can be driven simultaneously by a single motor (instead of rotating each brush 41 individually). This reduces the number of motors, thereby enabling miniaturization of the device. Moreover, when multiple brushes are rotated by a single motor, the rotation rate for each brush 41 can be changed by providing a speed reducer. This reduces the number of motors, thereby enabling miniaturization of the device. Furthermore, when multiple brushes are rotated by a single motor, the rotation rate for each brush 41 can be changed by providing a speed reducer.

[0364] Furthermore, the cleaning apparatus 10 includes at least two types of brushes used in development, one of which is preferably a brush with its rotation axis C arranged perpendicularly to the flexographic printing plate original 70. By arranging the rotation axis C parallel to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70, development can be performed efficiently.

[0365] For example, such as Figure 33 As shown, the developing section 12 (reference) Figure 1 The developing unit 40 is equipped with a roller brush 110 upstream of the conveying path Dp of the flexographic printing plate 70 in the conveying direction D, and a brush 41 is arranged sandwiched between the frame 15. Furthermore, a roller brush 112 is arranged downstream of the brush 41 in the conveying direction D. Figure 33 There are three types of brushes included. Figure 33 In this configuration, brush 41, roller brush 110, and roller brush 112 are all arranged in a state of being immersed in the liquid surface Qs of the cleaning solution Q. Additionally, roller brush 112 is used to complete the developing process. While roller brush 112 is preferred as it can remove residues from the plate, it is not strictly necessary to include it.

[0366] In brush 41, the rotation axis C is positioned perpendicular to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70. For example, as Figure 32 The diagram shows a structure with four brushes 41. Therefore, a detailed description of the brushes 41 is omitted.

[0367] Regarding brush 41, as Figures 1-3 and Figure 13 As shown, it can also be configured with two brushes 41.

[0368] In the roller brush 110, the rotation axis C is arranged parallel to the direction DL, which is orthogonal to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0369] The roller brush 110 is a roller-shaped brush formed by radially clustering bristles 110b onto a substrate 110a relative to the rotation axis C. The roller brush 110 rotates with the rotation axis C as its center of rotation.

[0370] Furthermore, in the roller brush 112, the rotation axis C is arranged parallel to the direction DL, which is orthogonal to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0371] The roller brush 112 has the same structure as the roller brush 110, and is a roller-shaped brush. The bristles 112b are radially bundled into the substrate 112a relative to the rotation axis C. The roller brush 112 rotates with the rotation axis C as the rotation center.

[0372] Compared to roller brush 110, roller brush 112 has longer bristles 112b. As a result, roller brush 112 does not leave brush marks on the plate, so-called brush marks, and is able to remove developing residues on the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0373] The length of the bristles 110b and 112b of roller brushes 110 and 112 is preferably 5 to 25 mm. If the length of the bristles 110b and 112b of roller brushes 110 and 112 is 5 to 25 mm, they can pass through the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 for conveying, thereby increasing the brush force, obtaining independent small dot performance, and increasing the developing speed.

[0374] In addition, the material of the bristles of roller brushes 110 and 112 is not particularly limited. For example, materials known to be used in the development of flexographic printing plate originals 70, such as nylon 6,6, nylon 610, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), can be used appropriately.

[0375] To maintain the developing speed, the rollers 110 and 112 preferably have bristles 110b and 112b in an area of ​​30% or more of the substrates 110a and 112a. The area in which bristles 110b and 112b are provided in an area of ​​30% or more of the substrates 110a and 112a of the rollers 110 and 112 is referred to as the area of ​​bristles being 30%.

[0376] The length of the bristles 110b and 112b of roller brushes 110 and 112 is preferably 5 to 25 mm. If the length of the bristles 110b and 112b of roller brushes 110 and 112 is 5 to 25 mm, they can pass through the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 for conveying, thereby increasing the brush force, obtaining independent small dot performance, and increasing the developing speed.

[0377] exist Figure 33 In this configuration, roller brush 110 is positioned at the inlet Di side of the conveying path Dp, and brush 41 is positioned at the outlet De side of the conveying path Dp. Roller brush 112 is positioned further away from the outlet De side of the conveying path Dp than brush 41.

[0378] Additionally, the inlet Di side of the transport path Dp refers to... Figure 33 In the state shown, when the front guide 37 is conveyed along the conveying path Dp in the conveying direction D, it initially reaches the side of the liquid surface Qs of the cleaning fluid Q. The outlet De side of the conveying path Dp refers to the downstream side of the inlet Di of the conveying path Dp in the conveying direction D.

[0379] exist Figure 33The device includes three types of brushes: roller brush 110, brush 41, and roller brush 112. By separating the brushes, both productivity and quality can be balanced during development. Roller brush 112 is less prone to uneven development, but its development speed is slow. Even with the slow development speed of roller brush 112, brush 41, acting as a cup brush, can compensate for this. This allows for faster development and high-quality development.

[0380] And, as Figure 34 As shown in the developing unit 40, it can replace Figure 33 The developing unit 40 has a roller brush 110 and a flat brush 114. Figure 34 In the conveying path Dp, a flat brush 114 is arranged on the inlet Di side, a brush 41 is arranged on the outlet De side, and a roller brush 112 is arranged on the outlet De side.

[0381] exist Figure 34 In this configuration, the flat brush 114, brush 41, and roller brush 112 are all arranged in a state of being immersed in the liquid surface Qs of the cleaning solution Q. Additionally, the roller brush 112 is used to complete the development process. The roller brush 112 is preferred because it can remove residues from the plate, but it is not always necessary to include it.

[0382] The flat brush 114 is, for example, formed by bundling bristles 114b perpendicularly to the substrate 114a. The bristles 114b of the flat brush 114 are in approximately perpendicular contact with the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate 70. Furthermore, the structure of the flat brush 114 is not limited to the structure described above. Also, the material of the bristles 114b of the flat brush 114 is not particularly limited, and the same material as the roller brush 110 can be used.

[0383] To maintain the development speed, the flat brush 114 preferably has bristles 114b in an area of ​​30% or more of the substrate 114a. The area in which bristles 114b are provided in an area of ​​30% or more of the substrate 114a of the flat brush 114 is referred to as the area of ​​bristles being 30%.

[0384] The length of the bristles 114b of the flat brush 114 is preferably 5 to 25 mm. If the length of the bristles 114b of the flat brush 114 is 5 to 25 mm, it can pass through the front guide 37 and the rear guide 38 for conveying, thereby increasing the brush force, obtaining independent small dot performance, and increasing the developing speed.

[0385] exist Figure 34The developing process includes three types of brushes: a flat brush 114, a brush 41, and a roller brush 112. By separating the brushes, both productivity and quality can be balanced during development. The flat brush 114, due to its large contact area, results in a fast development speed, allowing for rapid initial development. Even if uneven development occurs due to the flat brush 114, the brush 41, acting as a cup brush, can suppress this unevenness. Therefore, compared to the combination of the roller brush 112 and the brush 41, the development speed is accelerated, and high-quality development can be achieved.

[0386] And, as Figure 35 As shown in the developing unit 40, it can replace Figure 33 The developing unit 40 has a roller brush 110 and a brush 41 is configured thereon. Figure 35 In this configuration, a brush 41 is arranged on the inlet Di side of the conveying path Dp, and a brush 41 is arranged on the outlet De side of the conveying path Dp. Furthermore, a roller brush 112 is arranged on the outlet De side of the conveying path Dp. Figure 35 In this configuration, both brush 41 and roller brush 112 are arranged to be immersed in the liquid surface Qs of the cleaning solution Q. Additionally, roller brush 112 is used to complete the developing process. While roller brush 112 is preferred as it can remove residues from the plate, it is not strictly necessary.

[0387] exist Figure 35 The device includes two types of brushes: a brush 41 and a roller brush 112, each positioned differently. The brush 41 is positioned in different locations. In the brush 41 located at the inlet (Di) side of the transport path Dp and the brush 41 located at the outlet (De) side of the transport path Dp, at least one of the density and thickness of the implanted bristles 41b is varied. For example, regarding the structure of the brush 41 located at the inlet (Di) side of the transport path Dp, increasing the bristle area or thickening the bristles accelerates the development process. Furthermore, for example, decreasing the bristle area of ​​the brush 41 located at the outlet (De) side of the transport path Dp improves the development quality. Therefore, compared to a combination of roller brush 112 and brush 41, the development speed is increased, and high-quality development can be achieved.

[0388] In the developing process, flat brushes or roller brushes are generally used. Flat brushes, due to their large contact area, result in fast developing speeds and are less likely to leave brush marks (hereinafter referred to as brush marks) on the plate. However, flat brushes are prone to uneven development due to their high cost or the need for high-precision setting, resulting in poor uniformity of the brush surface. Furthermore, because flat brushes have a structure that makes it difficult for developing residue to be expelled from the brush, developing residue on the plate becomes a problem.

[0389] On the other hand, roller brushes offer excellent removal of developing residue due to their rotation around an axis, and are also inexpensive. Furthermore, roller brushes do not require precise settings, resulting in superior in-plane uniformity and reducing the likelihood of uneven development. However, the small contact area of ​​a circular roller brush leads to a slower development speed. To compensate for this, sometimes the bristle density is increased or the bristle diameter is thickened. In such cases, individual dots on the printed material tend to disappear, causing actual damage to the printing process and creating brush marks.

[0390] For example, as in Patent Document 3, flat brushes and roller brushes are sometimes used simultaneously as washing brushes. By using brushes simultaneously, it is attempted to address issues related to developing speed, developing residue, cost, uneven developing, and the performance of individual small dots. However, because a roller brush is used in the final process, brush marks remain on the plate, failing to solve all problems. Through the above... Figures 33-35 The brush configuration shown enables high quality, low cost, and high productivity in development, thereby solving the aforementioned problems of development speed, development residue, cost, uneven development, individual spot performance, and brush marks.

[0391] (Another structure of the cleaning device)

[0392] Figure 36 This is a schematic side view illustrating another example of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, in Figure 36 In the middle, to and Figures 1-3 The same structures of the cleaning device 10 shown are labeled with the same symbols, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0393] and Figure 1 Compared to the cleaning device 10 shown, Figure 36 The difference in the cleaning device 10a shown is that it has a heater 130 and a partition 132, and the other structures are the same as those shown. Figure 1 The cleaning device 10 shown has the same structure.

[0394] Heater 130 is connected to piping 20a and piping 20b. Heater 130 adjusts the temperature of the cleaning solution Q supplied to the developing tank 13 to a specified temperature, for example, within the range of 40 to 50°C. The structure of heater 130 is not particularly limited, and known structures can be appropriately utilized.

[0395] The heater 130 can adjust the temperature of the developing fatigue liquid Qw processed by the processing unit 18 to a certain temperature in the range of 40 to 50°C and supply it to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0396] The cleaning apparatus 10a has a separating member 132 provided along the frame 15 in the developing tank 13. Through the separating member 132, the gap 13g between the bottom surface 13b of the developing tank 13 and the end 132a of the separating member 132 divides the tank into two sides: one where the flexographic printing plate original 70 enters the cleaning solution Q, and the other where the flexographic printing plate original 70 is discharged from the cleaning solution Q. That is, through the separating member 132, the developing tank 13 becomes a structure where the first tank section M1 and the second tank section M2 are connected by the gap 13g. Therefore, in the developing tank 13, solid components floating on the surface of the liquid in the first tank section M1 (where the flexographic printing plate original 70 enters the cleaning solution Q) can be prevented from moving to the surface of the liquid in the second tank section M2 (where the flexographic printing plate original 70 is discharged from the cleaning solution Q). Thus, the second tank section M2 can maintain a lower amount of solid components compared to the first tank section M1. Furthermore, as described above, the cleaning solution Q can pass through the gap 13g of the developing tank 13.

[0397] The material of the partition component 132 is not particularly limited, and can be, for example, a block of vinyl chloride resin, a block of polyethylene resin, a block of polypropylene resin, or a foamed molded body.

[0398] Furthermore, the cleaning solution Q is supplied to the second tank section M2 via the supply section 22. At this time, the cleaning solution Q stored in the developing tank 13 is squeezed out through the gap 13g of the developing tank 13 towards the first tank section M1 where the flexographic printing plate original 70 enters. Thus, for example, the cleaning solution Q overflows. At this time, if the cleaning solution Q contains solid components, they are discharged.

[0399] In the cleaning apparatus 10a, since the separating member 132 is provided, solid components are even less likely to adhere to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 after development is completed.

[0400] In addition, although the structure is provided with a heater 130 and a partition member 132, it is not limited to this and can also be a structure having either a heater 130 or a partition member 132.

[0401] (Example of a heater)

[0402] Figure 37 This is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a heater used in a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, in Figure 37 In the middle, to and Figure 36 The same structures as those in the cleaning device 10a shown are labeled with the same symbols, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0403] like Figure 36 As shown, heater 130 is connected to separation membrane 24 and supply section 22.

[0404] like Figure 37As shown, the heater 130 includes a piping 140, a block 142 in which a portion of the piping 140 is embedded, and a heater 143 disposed within the block 142. The block 142 is made of a metallic material. Preferably, the metallic material constituting the block 142 is a metal with excellent castability, such as copper, copper alloy, aluminum, or aluminum alloy.

[0405] Pipe 140 is formed by seamlessly arranging a single pipe within block 142. It has a straight portion 140a located inside block 142 and a bent portion 140b connecting the straight portion 140a. The bent portion 140b is located outside block 142. Furthermore, three heating heaters 143 are arranged at intervals, for example, along the direction in which the straight portion 140a of pipe 140 extends.

[0406] The straight section 140a of the piping 140 and the heater 143 for heating are cast and integrated with the block 142.

[0407] The heater 143 for heating can appropriately utilize a heater used for casting heaters.

[0408] An overheat protection device, such as a thermostat (not shown), is installed inside the heater 130 to cut off power in case of abnormal overheating. This allows the treatment fluid containing the cleaning solution to be maintained at a specified temperature.

[0409] The power density of the heater 143 for heating the heater 130 is preferably 5 W / cm³. 2 Below. If the power density of the heater 143 for heating is set to 5 W / cm². 2 This allows the heating temperature of the heating element to be suppressed to a lower level, thereby extending the lifespan of the heating element. Since the heating heater 143 is difficult to repair when it is cast, malfunctions of the heater 130 can be suppressed.

[0410] When the power density is low, the heater lifespan is longer, but when the power density is 1W / cm², the lifespan is shorter. 2 In the following cases, the heater block becomes larger, increasing the cost and making it impractical. A more preferable power density for the heater 143 is 3–5 W / cm². 2 .

[0411] By configuring the heater 130 as described above, the cleaning fluid Q will not come into direct contact with the heating heater 143, and heat exchange will be carried out uniformly in the straight section 140a. Therefore, even if the cleaning fluid Q contains solid components, local scorching can be suppressed.

[0412] Furthermore, by allowing the cleaning fluid Q to flow through the piping within the block at a flow rate of 100 cm / s or more, the heating set temperature of the heater 130 is set to approximately 100°C, and even when the solid component concentration of the cleaning fluid Q is high, scorching of the cleaning fluid Q containing solid components can be suppressed. Therefore, it is preferable to set the flow rate of the cleaning fluid within the heater 130 to 100 cm / s, and more preferably to 200 cm / s or more. For example, a pump is used to allow the cleaning fluid to flow through the heater 130 at the aforementioned flow rate.

[0413] The flow rate of the cleaning fluid in the heater 130 can be measured by various commercially available liquid flow meters. Furthermore, the flow rate of the cleaning fluid in the heater 130 can also be calculated based on the cross-sectional area of ​​the piping inside the heater 130 and the circulation rate of the pump.

[0414] Figure 36 The heater 130 shown is also referred to as a casting heater. In addition, casting heaters can be used as heaters other than those described above. Besides casting heaters, for example, metal block heaters in which a heater and a tube for passing through a solution are pressed into a metal block, and heaters obtained by fixing a cartridge heater or sheath heater and a metal tube in a mold and injecting metal, etc.

[0415] (Another example of a rinsing section)

[0416] The structure of the flushing section is not limited to Figure 1 The structure shown can also be configured as the flushing section 14 as shown below.

[0417] Figures 38-45 These are schematic diagrams illustrating the rinsing section of the cleaning apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention, specifically examples 1 to 8. Furthermore, in Figures 38-45 In the middle, to and Figure 1 The same structures as those in the cleaning device 10 shown are labeled with the same symbols, and their detailed descriptions are omitted. Figures 38-45 The diagram omits a portion of the processing unit 18, piping 20, separation membrane 24, flushing fluid supply unit 21, supply pipe 21a, and valve 21b.

[0418] For example, such as Figure 38 As shown, the rinsing unit 14 has a supply unit 22 disposed opposite to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 on the liquid surface Qs of the cleaning liquid Q, and a liquid removal nozzle 50 disposed on the downstream side of the flexographic printing plate original 70 in the travel direction, i.e., the downstream side of the conveying direction D, which is closer to the supply unit 22 than the supply unit 22.

[0419] As described above, the supply unit 22 is a nozzle that supplies cleaning fluid Q to at least the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 where the unexposed portion has been removed.

[0420] The cleaning nozzle 50 removes or draws in gas by spraying gas, thereby removing the cleaning fluid Q supplied to the flexographic printing plate 70 by the supply unit 22. Furthermore, the structure of the cleaning nozzle 50 is not particularly limited as long as it can spray or draw in gas, and various pumps can be used.

[0421] like Figure 38 As shown, by providing a supply unit 22 and a removal nozzle 50, the cleaning fluid Q from the supply unit 22 is drawn in through the removal nozzle 50. Even if the supply amount of cleaning fluid Q from the supply unit 22 is small, it can diffuse on the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70, thereby removing the aforementioned unexposed areas. This reduces the amount of cleaning fluid Q required to remove latex and rubber residues remaining on the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 after development.

[0422] Furthermore, it is preferable to drive the supply unit 22 and the dehydration nozzle 50 simultaneously. By driving the supply unit 22 and the dehydration nozzle 50 simultaneously, the aforementioned entrapment effect of the cleaning fluid Q can be further achieved.

[0423] The nozzle angle γ of the liquid removal nozzle 50 is preferably 0° to 85°, more preferably 0° to 45°.

[0424] When the gas vent of the liquid removal nozzle 50 is located on a line (hereinafter referred to as the baseline) that is 90° relative to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70, the nozzle angle γ is set to 0°.

[0425] The angle formed by the line extending from the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70 and passing through the air vent of the liquid removal nozzle 50 and the reference line is the nozzle angle γ.

[0426] like Figure 39 As shown, the rinsing section 14 can be configured such that a supply section 22 and a liquid removal nozzle 50 are provided symmetrically opposite the back side 70b, sandwiching the flexographic printing plate original 70. This allows for the removal of latex and rubber residues left over from development from both sides of the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0427] The rinsing section 14 can also be used in addition to Figure 38 In addition to the structure shown, such as Figure 40As shown, a structure also includes a brush 52 or a scraper that contacts the back surface 70b of the flexographic printing plate 70. The brush 52 is, for example, a roller-shaped brush with bristles radially bundled relative to the axis. Thus, when the flexographic printing plate 70 is conveyed, the brush 52 rotates in contact with the back surface 70b, removing residues such as latex and rubber components remaining on the back surface 70b of the flexographic printing plate 70.

[0428] The rinsing section 14 can also be used in addition to Figure 39 In addition to the structure shown, such as Figure 41 As shown, a structure is also provided that includes a brush 52 that contacts the back surface 70b of the flexographic printing plate 70. Therefore, when the flexographic printing plate 70 is conveyed, the brush 52 rotates in contact with the back surface 70b, removing latex and rubber residues remaining on the back surface 70b of the flexographic printing plate 70. Furthermore, any residue not completely removed by the brush 52 can also be removed by the supply unit 22 and the liquid removal nozzle 50.

[0429] In addition, Figure 40 and Figure 41 In this configuration, the brush 52 is positioned in contact with the surface Qs of the cleaning fluid Q, but this is not a limitation; the brush 52 may also be configured to be immersed in the cleaning fluid Q.

[0430] (Pre-rinse section)

[0431] A pre-rinsing section 53 may be provided between the rinsing section 14 and the developing section 12 to supply cleaning fluid Q to the flexographic printing plate original 70 after developing. For example, the pre-rinsing section 53 may have a pre-rinsing nozzle 54. For example, in addition to Figure 38 In addition to the structure shown, such as Figure 42 As shown, a pre-rinsing nozzle 54 is also provided, which is disposed opposite to the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70. The pre-rinsing nozzle 54 supplies cleaning fluid Q to the flexographic printing plate original 70 after development before the rinsing section 14. Specifically, the pre-rinsing nozzle 54 sprays cleaning fluid Q to prevent foreign matter from adhering to the surface of the cleaning fluid Q in the developing tank 13 onto the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0432] The process of supplying cleaning solution Q to the flexographic printing plate original 70 after development between the developing and rinsing processes is called the pre-rinsing process. The pre-rinsing process is performed using the aforementioned pre-rinsing unit 53.

[0433] The pre-rinse nozzle 54 preferably supplies cleaning fluid Q at a flow rate that disturbs the liquid level Qs of the cleaning fluid Q in the developing tank 13.

[0434] In the developing tank 13, residue generated during development floats on the surface Qs of the cleaning solution Q in the developing tank 13. If this residue adheres to the surface 70a and back surface 70b of the flexographic printing plate original 70, it becomes a defect. Small residues that cannot be removed also exist in the supply section 22, and their adhesion also causes defects. By providing the pre-rinsing nozzle 54, the adhesion of small residues can be prevented, thereby improving the cleanliness of the surface 70a of the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0435] And, as Figure 43 As shown, the supply unit 22, the descaling nozzle 50, and the pre-rinsing nozzle 54 can also be arranged symmetrically around the flexographic printing plate 70. This prevents small residues from adhering to both sides of the flexographic printing plate 70, thereby improving the cleanliness of both sides. Alternatively, the pre-rinsing nozzle 54, which faces the back side 70b of the flexographic printing plate 70, may not be provided. A pre-rinsing process is not always necessary.

[0436] By allowing the used cleaning solution supplied from the pre-rinsing unit 53 to flow into the developing tank 13, the overall waste liquid volume can be reduced. In particular, the effect of reducing waste liquid volume is greater when the transport path is vertical. Therefore, it is also preferable to allow the used cleaning solution to flow into the developing tank 13 during the pre-rinsing process.

[0437] Furthermore, it can also be used for, in addition to Figure 42 In addition to the structure shown, such as Figure 44 As shown, a structure is also provided that includes a brush 52 that contacts the back surface 70b of the flexographic printing plate 70. Therefore, when the flexographic printing plate 70 is conveyed, the brush 52 rotates in contact with the back surface 70b, removing latex and rubber residues remaining on the back surface 70b of the flexographic printing plate 70. Furthermore, any residue not completely removed by the brush 52 can also be removed by the supply unit 22 and the liquid removal nozzle 50.

[0438] Furthermore, it can also be used for, in addition to Figure 42 In addition to the structure shown, such as Figure 45 As shown, a brush 52 is also provided that contacts the back surface 70b of the flexographic printing plate 70. Furthermore, a supply section 22 and a descaling nozzle 50 are arranged symmetrically opposite the back surface 70b, sandwiching the flexographic printing plate 70. Thus, when the flexographic printing plate 70 is transported, the brush 52 rotates in contact with the back surface 70b, removing latex and rubber residues remaining on the back surface 70b of the flexographic printing plate 70. Additionally, any residue not completely removed by the brush 52 can also be removed by the supply section 22 and the descaling nozzle 50.

[0439] In addition, Figure 44 and Figure 45 In this configuration, the brush 52 is positioned in contact with the surface Qs of the cleaning fluid Q, but this is not a limitation; the brush 52 may also be configured to be immersed in the cleaning fluid Q.

[0440] Furthermore, the liquid removal nozzle 50 is tilted relative to the transport direction D of the flexographic printing plate 70, but in other cases, it can also be tilted relative to the direction DL (see reference). Figure 3 The nozzle 50 is tilted relative to the direction DL, allowing the cleaning fluid Q to be collected on one side and removed. In other words, the cleaning fluid Q can be concentrated on one side and removed.

[0441] (Another structure of the cleaning device)

[0442] Figure 46 and Figure 47 This is a schematic side view illustrating another example of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, in Figure 46 and Figure 47 In the middle, to and Figures 1-3 The same structures as those in the cleaning device 10 shown are labeled with the same symbols, and their detailed descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, Figure 46 and Figure 47 The cleaning devices 10b and 10c have been simplified respectively.

[0443] and Figure 1 Compared to the cleaning device 10 shown, Figure 46 The conveying method and brush configuration of the cleaning device 10b shown are different; other than these, the structure is the same as... Figure 1 The cleaning device 10 shown has the same structure.

[0444] The cleaning device 10b is positioned such that the frame 15 is made of Figure 1 The state shown is rotated 90°. Furthermore, the cleaning device 10b is equipped with a roller brush 110 and a brush 41 at the inlet Di side of the conveying path Dp. The roller brush 110 and brush 41 are also equipped at the outlet De side of the conveying path Dp. The roller brush 110 is positioned downstream of the conveying direction D.

[0445] For example, such as Figure 32 As shown, the brush 41 is a structure in which multiple brushes 41, for example, four brushes 41 are arranged in a row along the direction DL.

[0446] Roller brush 110 is with Figure 33 The roller brush 110 of the developing unit 40 shown has the same structure.

[0447] A developing tank 13 is provided on the inlet Di side of the transport path Dp, in which the flexographic printing plate original 70 is immersed. On the inlet Di side of the transport path Dp, the flexographic printing plate original 70 is developed while immersed in the cleaning solution Q.

[0448] Furthermore, at the outlet De side of the transport path Dp, the roller brush 110 and the brush 41 are disposed outside the developing tank 13. At the outlet De side of the transport path Dp, for example, cleaning fluid Q is supplied to the flexographic printing plate original 70 to develop the flexographic printing plate original 70, or cleaning fluid Q is supplied to the roller brush 110 and the brush 41 to develop the flexographic printing plate original 70.

[0449] Additionally, in making frame 15 by Figure 1 The state shown, in which the flexible printing plate original is rotated 90° and then transported, is called horizontal transport.

[0450] and, Figure 47 The cleaning device 10c shown is positioned such that the frame 15 is made of Figure 1 The state shown is tilted. The tilt angle is approximately 70°. Compared to the cleaning device 10b, which is rotated 90°, the tilt angle of the frame 15 of the cleaning device 10c is smaller. Compared to the cleaning device 10a, the cleaning device 10c can reduce the size of the developing tank 13. Furthermore, as long as the frame 15 is... Figure 1 The tilt of the inclined cleaning device 10c shown in the figure does not constitute a certain degree of inclination. Figure 1 The cleaning device 10 shown and Figure 46 The cleaning device 10b shown is not particularly limited to the aforementioned 70° or so.

[0451] Even in non-longitudinal conveying methods such as cleaning devices 10b and 10c, space-saving can be achieved due to the small volume and compact structure of the cleaning devices 10b and 10c. The cleaning devices 10b and 10c can then achieve the same results as described above. Figure 1 The cleaning device 10 shown has the same effect.

[0452] Furthermore, in the cleaning devices 10b and 10c, the structure of the brush in the developing unit 40 is not limited to... Figure 46 and Figure 47 The structure shown can also be configured as described above. Figures 33-35 The structure of the brush in the developing unit 40 shown.

[0453] (Transportation Department)

[0454] The conveying unit 11 described above uses a winding transmission method employing gears 30 and a conveyor chain 31 as an example, but the conveying unit 11 is not limited to this. For example, gears 30 can be replaced with pulleys, and conveyor chain 31 can be replaced with conveyor belts. A pair of conveyor belts are used, and guides are fixed to each conveyor belt to convey the flexographic printing plate original.

[0455] When using a conveyor belt, the belt is wound in parallel. There are no particular limitations on the conveyor belt; flat belts, V-belts, ribbed belts, round belts, and toothed belts can be used.

[0456] In addition to the above, the conveying unit 11 can also use a winding method with a traction member installed on the guide.

[0457] In the case of the above-described winding method, for example, a traction member (not shown) for conveying the flexographic printing plate original 70 is installed on the guide of the flexographic printing plate original 70. The flexographic printing plate original 70 is conveyed along the above-described conveying path Dp by the winding traction member. The traction member can be a rope or a strip.

[0458] (Original flexographic printing version)

[0459] The flexographic printing plate 70 forms the flexographic printing plate used in flexographic printing, and its structure is not particularly limited. The flexographic printing plate 70 is only a few millimeters thick and is flexible. Furthermore, flexibility means that after the force is removed, the bent state returns to its original state under the action of force. The size of the flexographic printing plate 70 is, for example, 800mm × 1200mm or 1050mm × 1500mm. Since the brush 41 is moved for development, even large flexographic printing plate 70s can be accommodated.

[0460] The flexographic printing plate 70 is preferably a plate that can be developed with an aqueous developer, primarily composed of water, and is referred to as a water-developable flexographic printing plate plate. In this case, the cleaning solution is an aqueous developer.

[0461] The flexographic printing plate original 70 can be a known flexographic printing plate original that can be developed with an aqueous developer. As the flexographic printing plate original 70, it can be a flexographic plate material corresponding to CTP (Computer To Plate) with a black layer coated on the surface.

[0462] The cleaning solution will be explained below.

[0463] Cleaning solution

[0464] The cleaning solution is preferably an aqueous cleaning solution, but it can also be a solution consisting solely of water, or an aqueous solution containing 50% by mass or more water and to which a water-soluble compound is added. Examples of water-soluble compounds include surfactants, acids, and alkalis. The aforementioned aqueous cleaning solution is equivalent to an aqueous developer.

[0465] Examples of surfactants include anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, and amphoteric surfactants, with anionic surfactants being preferred.

[0466] As anionic surfactants, examples include aliphatic carboxylates such as sodium lauryl ether and sodium oleate; higher alcohol sulfates such as sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium cetyl sulfate, and sodium oleyl sulfate; polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfates such as sodium polyoxyethylene lauryl ether sulfate; polyoxyethylene alkyl allyl ether sulfates such as sodium polyoxyethylene octylphenyl ether sulfate and sodium polyoxyethylene nonylphenyl ether sulfate; alkyl sulfonates such as alkyl diphenyl ether disulfonate, sodium dodecyl sulfonate, and sodium dialkyl sulfosuccinate; alkyl allyl sulfonates such as alkyl disulfonate, sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate, sodium dibutylnaphthalene sulfonate, and sodium triisopropylnaphthalene sulfonate; higher alcohol phosphates such as disodium lauryl phosphate and sodium lauryl phosphate; and polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphates such as disodium polyoxyethylene lauryl ether phosphate and sodium polyoxyethylene lauryl ether phosphate. These can be used alone or in combination of two or more. In addition, sodium salts were given as a specific example, but it is not particularly limited to sodium salts. Even calcium salts or ammonium salts can achieve the same effect.

[0467] As nonionic surfactants, examples include polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers such as polyoxyethylene oil-based ethers or polyoxyethylene lauryl ethers; polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ethers such as polyoxyethylene nonylphenyl ethers or polyoxyethylene octylphenyl ethers; polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene glycols; mono- and diesters of fatty acids and polyethylene glycol such as polyethylene glycol monostearate, polyethylene glycol monooleate, or polyethylene glycol dilaurate; esters of fatty acids and dehydrated sorbitol such as dehydrated sorbitol monolaurate or dehydrated sorbitol monooleate; and polyoxyethylene dehydrated sorbitol monolaurate, polyoxyethylene dehydrated sorbitol monostearate, or polyoxyethylene dehydrated sorbitol trilaurate. Additives and esters of fatty acids, such as sorbitol monopalmitate or sorbitol dilaurate, esters of fatty acids and sorbitol, polyoxyethylene sorbitol monostearate or polyoxyethylene sorbitol dioleate, polyoxyethylene adducts of sorbitol and esters of fatty acids, pentaerythritol monostearate, esters of fatty acids and pentaerythritol, esters of fatty acids and glycerol monolaurate, alkyl alcohol amides of fatty acids such as lauric acid diethanolamide or lauric acid monoethanolamide, amine oxides such as lauryl dimethylamine oxide, alkyl alcohol amines of fatty acids such as stearyl diethanolamine, polyoxyethylene alkylamines, triethanolamine fatty acid esters, phosphates, carbonates, silicates, and other salt compounds exhibiting basicity. They can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0468] As cationic surfactants, examples include primary, secondary, and tertiary amine salts such as monostearin ammonium chloride, distearate ammonium chloride, and tripearin ammonium chloride; quaternary ammonium salts such as stearin trimethyl ammonium chloride, distearate dimethyl ammonium chloride, and stearin dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride; alkylpyridinium salts such as N-cetylated pyridinium chloride or N-stearinized pyridinium chloride; N,N-dialkylmorpholinium salts; fatty acid amide salts of polyvinylpolyamine; acetate salts of urea compounds containing amides of aminoethylethanolamine and stearic acid; and 2-alkyl-1-hydroxyethyl imidazoline chloride. These can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0469] As amphoteric surfactants, examples include amino acid-type surfactants such as sodium laurylamine propionate, carboxyl betaine-type surfactants such as lauryl dimethyl betaine or lauryl dihydroxyethyl betaine, sulfobetaine-type surfactants such as stearyl dimethyl sulfonyl vinyl ammonium betaine, imidazoline betaine-type surfactants, and lecithin. They can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0470] As acids, specifically, examples include inorganic or organic acids such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, formic acid, acetic acid, oxalic acid, succinic acid, citric acid, malic acid, maleic acid, and p-toluenesulfonic acid.

[0471] As bases, examples include lithium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, calcium oxide, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate.

[0472] The fatigue developer will be described in detail below.

[0473] <Fatigue developing solution>

[0474] The fatigue developer is not particularly limited to any cleaning solution that contains solids generated by removing unexposed portions of the flexographic printing plate through development using the aforementioned cleaning solution, i.e., a cleaning solution containing uncured resin. However, it may also include fatigue developers containing conventionally known photosensitive resin compositions for forming general photosensitive resin layers.

[0475] Uncured resin removed by development can also be the photosensitive resin contained in the photosensitive resin composition.

[0476] Furthermore, since the fatigue developer used in LAM (Laser Ablation Masking) is preferably the target of the treatment, the uncured resin removed by development is preferably the photosensitive resin contained in the photosensitive resin composition.

[0477] Furthermore, examples of such photosensitive resin compositions include compositions that, in addition to photosensitive resin, also contain polymerization initiators, polymerizable compounds, polymerization inhibitors, and plasticizers. Therefore, fatigue developing solutions may contain polymerization initiators, polymerizable compounds, polymerization inhibitors, and plasticizers, in addition to uncured resin.

[0478] <Uncured resin>

[0479] The uncured resin contained in fatigue developer is a solid product generated by removing unexposed portions. Examples of uncured resins contained in fatigue developer include water-dispersible latex, rubber components, polymer components, and uncrosslinked olefinic unsaturated compounds (polymers).

[0480] Examples of water-dispersible latexes include polybutadiene latex, natural rubber latex, styrene-butadiene copolymer latex, acrylonitrile-butadiene copolymer latex, polychloroprene latex, polyisoprene latex, polyurethane latex, methyl methacrylate-butadiene copolymer latex, vinylpyridine copolymer latex, butyl polymer latex, polysulfide rubber (Thiokol) polymer latex, acrylate polymer latex, and other water-dispersible latex polymers, or polymers obtained by copolymerizing these polymers with other components such as acrylic acid or methacrylic acid.

[0481] Examples of rubber components include butadiene rubber, isoprene rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, acrylonitrile rubber, acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber, chloroprene rubber, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, butyl rubber, ethylene-propylene rubber, and epichlorohydrin rubber.

[0482] As a polymer component, it can be either hydrophilic or hydrophobic. Specifically, examples include polyamide resin, unsaturated polyester resin, acrylic resin, polyurethane resin, polyester resin, and polyvinyl alcohol resin.

[0483] Solids with a specific gravity less than that of the cleaning solution include, for example, rubber components and photosensitive resins such as latex.

[0484] Solids with a higher specific gravity than the cleaning fluid, such as carbon, are components of the outer coating.

[0485] Examples of olefinically unsaturated compounds (polymers) include (meth)acrylic acid modified polymers that have olefinically unsaturated bonds in their molecules.

[0486] Examples of (meth)acrylic acid modified polymers include (meth)acrylic acid modified butadiene rubber and (meth)acrylic acid modified nitrile rubber.

[0487] "(Meth)acrylic acid" is a term referring to acrylic acid or methacrylic acid, while "(meth)acrylate" as used later refers to acrylate or methacrylate.

[0488] The amount of uncured resin contained in the fatigue developer is not particularly limited, but is preferably 70% by mass or less, more preferably 35% by mass or less.

[0489] <Polymerization Initiator>

[0490] As a polymerization initiator that can be included in fatigue developing solution, a photopolymerization initiator is preferred.

[0491] Examples of photopolymerization initiators include alkyl phenyl ketones, acetophenones, benzoin ethers, benzophenones, thioxanones, anthraquinones, benzoinyls, and diacetyls, with alkyl phenyl ketones being preferred.

[0492] Examples of alkyl phenyl ketone photopolymerization initiators include 2,2-dimethoxy-1,2-diphenylethane-1-one, 1-hydroxy-cyclohexyl-phenyl-one, and 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenyl-propane-1-one.

[0493] The concentration of polymerization initiator that may be included in the fatigue developer is not particularly limited, but is preferably 2.0% by mass or less, more preferably 1.0% by mass or less.

[0494] <Polymerizing compounds>

[0495] Polymerizable compounds that can be included in fatigue developing solutions include, for example, olefinic unsaturated compounds other than the aforementioned olefinic unsaturated compounds (polymers) that correspond to the so-called monomeric components.

[0496] An olefin unsaturated compound can be a compound with one olefin unsaturated bond or a compound with two or more olefin unsaturated bonds.

[0497] As compounds having an olefinic unsaturated bond, examples include hydroxyl-containing (meth)acrylates such as 2-hydroxyethyl (meth)acrylate, 2-hydroxypropyl (meth)acrylate, 2-hydroxybutyl (meth)acrylate, 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl (meth)acrylate, and β-hydroxy-β'-(meth)acryloyloxyethyl phthalate; alkyl (meth)acrylates such as methyl (meth)acrylate, ethyl (meth)acrylate, propyl (meth)acrylate, butyl (meth)acrylate, isoamyl (meth)acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl (meth)acrylate, lauryl (meth)acrylate, and stearyl (meth)acrylate; cycloalkyl (meth)acrylates such as cyclohexyl (meth)acrylate; and (meth)propylene. Haloalkyl methacrylates such as ethyl chloromethacrylate and chloropropyl methacrylate; alkoxyalkyl methacrylates such as methoxyethyl methacrylate, ethoxyethyl methacrylate, and butoxyethyl methacrylate; phenoxyethyl acrylate, nonylphenoxyethyl methacrylate, and phenoxyalkyl methacrylate; alkoxyalkylene glycol (meth)acrylates such as ethoxydiethylene glycol (meth)acrylate, methoxytriethylene glycol (meth)acrylate, and methoxydipropylene glycol (meth)acrylate; 2,2-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate, 2,2-diethylaminoethyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, and 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate, etc.

[0498] Examples of alkyl diol dimethacrylates, such as 1,9-nonanediol dimethacrylate; polyethylene glycol dimethacrylates, such as diethylene glycol dimethacrylate; polypropylene glycol dimethacrylates, such as dipropylene glycol dimethacrylate; trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate, pentaerythritol trimethacrylate, pentaerythritol tetramethacrylate, glycerol trimethacrylate; polyvalent (meth)acrylates obtained by adding unsaturated carboxylic acids or unsaturated alcohols with alkyl unsaturated bonds and active hydrogen to ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether; polyvalent (meth)acrylates obtained by adding unsaturated epoxy compounds such as glycidyl (meth)acrylate to compounds with active hydrogen, such as carboxylic acids or amines; polyvalent (meth)acrylates obtained by adding unsaturated epoxy compounds such as glycidyl (meth)acrylate to compounds with active hydrogen, such as carboxylic acids or amines; polyvalent (meth)acrylamides such as methylene bis(meth)acrylamide; and polyvalent vinyl compounds such as divinylbenzene.

[0499] The concentration of polymeric compounds that may be included in the fatigue developer is not particularly limited, but is preferably 30.0% by mass or less, more preferably 15.0% by mass or less.

[0500] <Polymerization inhibitor>

[0501] Polymer inhibitors that can be included in fatigue developing solutions include, for example, hydroquinone monomethyl ether, p-methoxyphenol, di-tert-butyl-p-cresol, pyrogallol, tert-butylcatechol, benzoquinone, 4,4'-thiobis(3-methyl-6-tert-butylphenol), 2,2'-methylenebis(4-methyl-6-tert-butylphenol), and N-nitrosophenylhydroxylamine cerium salt.

[0502] The concentration of the polymerization inhibitor that may be included in the fatigue developer is not particularly limited, but it is preferably 0.3% by mass or less, and more preferably 0.15% by mass or less.

[0503] <Plasticizers>

[0504] Plasticizers that can be included in fatigue developing solutions include, for example, liquid rubber, oil, polyester, and phosphoric acid compounds.

[0505] As a liquid rubber, examples include liquid polybutadiene, liquid polyisoprene, and rubbers modified with maleic acid or epoxy groups.

[0506] As for oils, examples include paraffin, naphthene, and aromatic oils.

[0507] As for polyesters, specifically, adipic acid-based polyesters can be cited as an example.

[0508] Phosphoric acid compounds, specifically, phosphate esters, etc., can be cited as examples.

[0509] The concentration of plasticizer that may be included in the fatigue developer is not particularly limited, but it is preferably 30% by mass or less, more preferably 15% by mass or less.

[0510] The present invention is basically constructed as described above. The cleaning apparatus and cleaning method of the present invention have been described in detail above, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications or alterations can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0511] Example

[0512] The present invention will be further described in detail below with examples. The materials, reagents, dosages, quantities, ratios, processing contents, and processing steps shown in the following examples can be appropriately modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be interpreted as limited by the specific examples shown below.

[0513] In this embodiment, the cleaning apparatus of Examples 1 to 10 were evaluated for plate residue, brush marks, isolated small dots, uneven development, brush cost, and development speed.

[0514] The following shows the apparatus and pharmaceuticals used in Examples 1 to 10.

[0515] <Imaging Machine>

[0516] • CDI Spark 4835 Inline (manufactured by ESKO)

[0517] <Exposure Machine>

[0518] • UV Exposure Machine Concept 302 ECDLF (Product Name) (Manufactured by Glunz & Jensen)

[0519] <Original Flexographic Print>

[0520] ·FLENEX FW-L (manufactured by FUJIFILM Global Graphic Systems)

[0521] • Size of the plate: 800mm × 1200mm

[0522] Cleaning solution

[0523] • An aqueous solution of Finish Power & Pure Powder SP (manufactured by Reckitt Benckiser Japan Ltd.) (concentration 0.5% by mass)

[0524] ·Liquid temperature 50℃

[0525] <Imaging and exposure of the original flexographic printing plate>

[0526] Back exposure was performed by exposing the flexographic printing plate original to the back side at 80W for 10 seconds using the aforementioned ultraviolet exposure machine. Then, imaging was performed by ablating the mask layer using the aforementioned imaging machine, followed by main exposure by exposing the surface (the back side of the back side) to the surface at 80W for 1000 seconds. The flexographic printing plate original after main exposure was used as the flexographic printing plate original after imaging exposure.

[0527] In addition, individual dot patterns, equivalent to individual dots of 100μm, 120μm, and 150μm in size, are exposed on the flexographic printing plate original after imaging exposure.

[0528] The following section explains the issues of residue on the plate, brush marks, isolated small dots, uneven development, brush cost, and development speed.

[0529] [Remnants on the plate]

[0530] After the development process of the flexographic printing plate original, it was dried and then exposed.

[0531] After the above drying and post-exposure, the original flexographic printing plate is removed using tape, and any residue that cannot be removed is treated as plate residue.

[0532] Check for any residue on the plate larger than 100μm that cannot be removed with tape, and mark it at 1m increments. 2 The amount of residue on the plate was evaluated.

[0533] Based on the results of visual inspection of the processed flexographic printing plate original, residues larger than 100μm were found to be present in every 1m² of the plate. 2 A score of "A" is given if there are none (0).

[0534] Remove plate residues larger than 100μm in size from every 1m. 2 A score of 1 to 2 is rated "B".

[0535] Remove plate residues larger than 100μm in size from every 1m. 2 A score of "C" is given for 3 or more scores.

[0536] [Brush marks]

[0537] After the development process of the flexographic printing plate original, it was dried and then exposed.

[0538] After the aforementioned drying and post-exposure, brush marks were visually confirmed on the flexographic printing plate. For flexographic printing plates where brush marks were confirmed, printing was performed, and the printed products were visually evaluated.

[0539] The rating for brush marks that cannot be confirmed is "A".

[0540] A grade "B" is given to items where brush marks can be identified but not on printed materials.

[0541] The rating for items where brush marks can be identified and are also visible on printed materials is "C".

[0542] [Independent sub-point]

[0543] After the development process of the flexographic printing plate original, it was dried and then exposed.

[0544] After the aforementioned drying and post-exposure, an optical microscope was used to confirm whether an independent dot pattern equivalent to 100μm, 120μm, and 150μm was formed on the flexographic printing plate as an independent dot.

[0545] For individual small dot patterns, all those at 100μm, 120μm, and 150μm will be rated "A".

[0546] For individual small dot patterns, it will be impossible to identify 100μm among 100μm, 120μm and 150μm, but the evaluation of 120μm and 150μm that can be identified is "B".

[0547] For individual small dot patterns, it is impossible to identify 100μm and 120μm in 100μm, 120μm and 150μm, but the 150μm can be identified and rated as "C".

[0548] Uneven development

[0549] After the development process of the flexographic printing plate original, it was dried and then exposed.

[0550] The development process continues until the thickness of the flexographic printing plate original, which is 1.7 mm thick, becomes 1.1 mm (1100 μm).

[0551] The average value is calculated by measuring eight points on the flexographic printing plate original at a location with a thickness equivalent to that of the base plate. The thickness of the base plate and the height of the image area were measured using a dial thickness gauge / 7321 manufactured by Mitutoyo Corporation.

[0552] Compared to the average of 1100μm for the above 8 points, the evaluation for the range of 1070μm to 1130μm is "A".

[0553] Compared to the average of 1100μm for the above 8 points, those exceeding 1070μm to 1130μm but within 1050μm to 1150μm are rated as "B".

[0554] Compared to the average of 1100μm for the above 8 points, those exceeding 1050μm to 1150μm but within 1070μm to 1170μm are rated as "C".

[0555] [Brush Cost]

[0556] The cost of the brushes was evaluated using the price of the brushes used.

[0557] A brush costing less than 150,000 yen is rated "A".

[0558] The brushes costing between 150,000 yen and 300,000 yen are rated "B".

[0559] Brushes costing 300,000 yen or more are rated "C".

[0560] [Developing speed]

[0561] Regarding the development speed, developing a flexographic printing plate with a thickness of 1.7 mm to a thickness of 1.1 mm (1100 μm) is considered as one plate development.

[0562] The number of prints that could be developed per hour was evaluated.

[0563] A rating of "A" is given for 4 pages or more per hour.

[0564] A rating of "B" is given for versions 2 or more per hour but less than 4 per hour.

[0565] A rating of "C" is given for less than 2 versions per hour.

[0566] Next, Examples 1 to 10 will be described.

[0567] (Example 1)

[0568] In Example 1, Figure 33 The cleaning apparatus 10 shown has a developing unit 40 (reference) Figure 1 In the above-mentioned flexographic printing plate original after imaging exposure, the brush 110 is used as the inlet brush 1 and the brush 41, which is used as a cup brush, is used as the outlet brush 2.

[0569] The brush 1 on the entrance side is equivalent to Figure 33 The roller brush 110 is shown positioned on the inlet Di side. The brush 2 on the outlet side is equivalent to... Figure 33 The brush 41 shown is positioned on the outlet De side.

[0570] In addition, in Example 1, a roller brush with an outer diameter of 70 mm, a length of 1200 mm, and a bristle length of 16 mm was used. The roller brush has bristles embedded in 80% of the area of ​​the substrate.

[0571] Five cup brushes are arranged along the width of the flexographic printing plate, which is orthogonal to the transport direction. The cup brushes are 260 mm in diameter and 16 mm in bristle length. The cup brushes have no bristles embedded in the area 30 mm from the center, and bristles are embedded in 80% of the substrate area.

[0572] Furthermore, during development, the cup brush is moved along the width of the flexographic printing plate master with a swing width of 50 mm. The swing width is approximately 19.3% of the brush diameter.

[0573] (Example 2)

[0574] Compared to Example 1, in Example 2, the swing width of the cup brush on the outlet side of the brush 2 is set to 90 mm, except that it is the same as in Example 1. The swing width is approximately 34.6% of the brush diameter.

[0575] (Example 3)

[0576] Compared to Example 1, in Example 3, the swing width of the cup brush of the outlet side brush 2 is set to 130mm, except that it is the same as in Example 1. The swing width is 50% of the brush diameter.

[0577] (Example 4)

[0578] Compared to Example 1, in Example 4, the length of the bristles of the cup brush on the outlet side of the brush 2 is set to 3mm, and the swing width is set to 130mm. Except for this, it is the same as in Example 1. The swing width is 50% of the brush diameter.

[0579] (Example 5)

[0580] Compared to Example 1, in Example 5, the length of the bristles of the cup brush on the outlet side of the brush 2 is set to 26 mm and the swing width is set to 130 mm. Except for this, it is the same as in Example 1. The swing width is 50% of the brush diameter.

[0581] (Example 6)

[0582] Compared to Example 1, in Example 6, the area of ​​the cup brush of the outlet side brush 2 that is not implanted with bristles is set to a region 10 mm from the center and the swing width is set to 130 mm. Except for this, it is the same as in Example 1. The swing width is 50% of the diameter of the brush.

[0583] (Example 7)

[0584] Compared to Example 6, in Example 7, it is set as Figure 33 The cleaning apparatus 10 shown has a developing unit 40 (reference) Figure 1 The structure is the same as that of Example 6, except that it has a roller brush 112 as the brush 3 on the outlet side.

[0585] The roller brush 112 of the brush 3 on the outlet side uses a roller brush with an outer diameter of 70 mm, a length of 1200 mm, and a bristle length of 20 mm. The roller brush has bristles embedded in 80% of the area of ​​the substrate.

[0586] (Example 8)

[0587] In Example 8, Figure 34 The cleaning apparatus 10 shown has a developing unit 40 (reference) Figure 1In the above-mentioned imaging exposure, the flexible printing plate original is developed by using a flat brush 114 as the brush 1 on the inlet side and a cup brush 41 as the brush 2 on the outlet side.

[0588] The flat brush used has a length of 1100mm, a width of 1100mm, and a bristle length of 16mm. The flat brush has bristles embedded in 80% of the substrate area.

[0589] Furthermore, during development, the flat brush is moved along the width of the flexographic printing plate with a swing width of 60mm.

[0590] The same cup brush as in Example 1 was used, with a swing width of 130 mm. The swing width was 50% of the brush diameter.

[0591] (Example 9)

[0592] In Example 9, Figure 35 The cleaning apparatus 10 shown has a developing unit 40 (reference) Figure 1 In the above-mentioned flexographic printing plate original after imaging exposure, the brush 1 on the inlet side is a brush 41 that serves as a cup roller, and the brush 2 on the outlet side is a brush 41 that serves as a cup brush.

[0593] The cup brush of brush 1 on the inlet side uses the same cup brush as the cup brush of brush 2 on the outlet side in Example 3. The swing width is 50% of the brush diameter.

[0594] Compared to the outlet-side brush 2 of Example 3, the area of ​​the bristles of the cup brush 2 on the outlet side is 50%, except that it is the same as the outlet-side brush 2 of Example 3. The swing width is 50% of the brush diameter.

[0595] (Example 10)

[0596] Compared to Example 9, in Example 10, the cup brush of the inlet-side brush 1 and the cup brush of the outlet-side brush 2 have no areas without implanted bristles. Apart from this, they are set to be the same as in Example 9.

[0597] [Table 1]

[0598]

[0599] [Table 2]

[0600]

[0601] As shown in Table 2, in Examples 1 to 10, good results were obtained regarding plate residue, brush marks, isolated small dots, uneven development, brush cost, and development speed.

[0602] Based on a comparison of Embodiment 6 and Embodiment 7, which differ in the presence or absence of the brush 3 on the outlet side, by providing the brush 3 on the outlet side, less residue is left on the plate.

[0603] According to Examples 3-5, compared to Example 4 with short hair, the evaluation of individual dots was good in Example 3 where the hair length was within the preferred range. Furthermore, compared to Example 5 with long hair, the evaluation of development speed was good in Example 3 where the hair length was within the preferred range.

[0604] Based on the comparison of Examples 1-7, 8, 9, and 10, the combination of roller brush and cup brush, or cup brush and cup brush, resulted in better brush cost. The combination of cup brush and cup brush yielded the best results.

[0605] Symbol Explanation

[0606] 10, 10a, 10b - Cleaning device; 11 - Conveying section; 12 - Developing section; 13 - Developing tank; 14 - Rinsing section; 15 - Frame; 15a - Component; 15b - Beam component; 17 - Connecting pipe; 18 - Processing section; 19 - Receiving tray; 20 - Piping; 21 - Rinsing fluid supply section; 21a - Supply pipe; 21b - Valve; 22 - Supply section; 23 - Solids; 24 - Separation membrane; 26 - Drive section; 27 - Drive shaft section; 29, 29b - Pulley; 29a - Drive belt; 30 - Gear; 30a - Shaft; 31 - Conveyor chain; 31b - Fixing section; 32 - Conveying drive section; 33 - Tension adjustment section; 3 4a, 34b - Steering rod, 35 - Back plate section, 35c - Opening section, 36 - Clamping roller, 37 - Front guide, 37a, 38a - Base, 37b, 38b - Bending section, 37c, 38c - Mounting section, 37d, 38d - Pin, 37e - Base, 37f - Barb, 38 - Rear guide, 39 - Guide mechanism section, 39a - Frame material, 39b, 88, 89, 94 - Elastic components, 40 - Developing unit, 41, 52 - Brush, 41a - Substrate, 41b - Bristle, 41c - Front end face, 42 - Guide roller, 45 - Rotating shaft section, 45a - Rotating shaft section, 46 - Supply section, 47 - Supply pipe, 50 - Liquid removal nozzle, 53 - Pre-rinse section, 54 - Pre-rinse nozzle, 60 - Feeding device, 60a - Drive roller, 60b - Moving roller, 60c - Conveyor belt, 61 - Guide, 61a, 61b - Guide plates, 62, 63 - Sensors, 64 - Loading / unloading unit, 65 - Plate mounting section, 66 - Plate unloading section, 70 - Flexographic printing plate original, 70a - Surface, 70b - Back side, 70c - Front end, 70d - Rear end, 80, 81 - Shaft connector section, 82 - First component, 84 - Second component, 85 - Ball, 86 - First flange, 87 - Second flange, 90 - Pressing part, 92 - Housing, 95 - Fixed Fixed wall, 100-Drive section, 102-Pressure section, 103-Recess, 104-Drive section, 105-Extrusion section, 110, 112-Roller brush, 110a, 112a, 114a-Base, 110b, 112b, 114b-Bristles, 114-Flat brush, 114a-Base, 114b-Bristles, 130-Heater, 132-Separating component, 132a-End, 140-Pipeline, 140a-Straight section, 140b-Bend section, 142-Block, 143-Heater for heating, C-Rotating shaft, D-Conveying direction, D1-First moving direction, D2-Second moving direction, DB-Diameter, d B - Radius, Dc - Drive shaft, De - Outlet, Di - Inlet, DL - Direction, Dp - Conveyor path, Dpc - Curved conveyor path, Dps - Straight conveyor path, E m - Loading / unloading station, H m- Staff, Mb - Swing width, Q - Cleaning fluid, Qs - Liquid level, Qw - Fatigue developing fluid, r - Rotation direction, γ - Nozzle angle, θ - Angle.

Claims

1. A cleaning apparatus, wherein a flexographic printing plate original after imaging exposure is conveyed while a cleaning solution is used for development, wherein... The cleaning device has: The conveying path is formed as a circular conveying path with curved conveying paths and straight conveying paths; A guide, which fixes the front and rear ends of the flexographic printing plate original and moves along the conveying path; and The tension-applying section applies tension to the flexible printing plate. The tension-applying part causes the tension applied to the flexible printing plate after fixing the flexible printing plate original to be greater than the tension applied to the flexible printing plate original when fixing it.

2. The cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein, The cleaning apparatus includes a developing unit, which uses the cleaning solution to remove the unexposed areas of the flexographic printing plate original to perform the developing process. The developing section has at least one cup brush for developing. It also has a drive unit that moves the cup brush relative to the conveying direction of the flexographic printing plate along the width direction of the flexographic printing plate.

3. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The developing section has at least two types of brushes for developing. One type of brush is a brush whose rotating axis is positioned perpendicular to the original flexible printing plate.

4. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The drive unit causes the cup brush to move a distance of more than 1 / 3 of the diameter of the cup brush along the width direction of the flexographic printing plate original.

5. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The cup brush has bristles bundled on a substrate. The hair is disposed in an area other than the region with a radius of 10 mm or less relative to the center of the substrate.

6. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The bristles of the cup brush are disposed in an area of ​​more than 30% of the substrate.

7. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, The length of the bristles of the cup brush or the brush is 5 to 25 mm.

8. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The cleaning apparatus includes a rinsing section that supplies rinsing solution to the developed flexographic printing plate original removed from the developing section. The rinsing section is provided on the downstream side of the flexographic printing plate original in the traveling direction of the developing section.

9. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The cleaning device also has a pre-rinsing section between the rinsing section and the developing section, which supplies the cleaning solution to the flexible printing plate original after the developing process.

10. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The rinsing section has a spray nozzle that supplies the rinsing solution to the flexographic printing plate original after development. For the spray nozzle, the amount of rinsing liquid supplied per unit area of ​​the developed flexographic printing plate original to which the rinsing liquid is supplied is 0.3–7 kg / m². 2 .

11. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The developing section uses the cleaning solution stored in the developing tank for developing. The rinsing solution supplied from the rinsing section to the flexographic printing plate original after development flows into the developing tank of the developing section.

12. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The developing section uses the cleaning solution stored in the developing tank for developing. The rinsing solution supplied from the rinsing section to the flexographic printing plate original after development and the cleaning solution supplied from the pre-rinsing section to the flexographic printing plate original after development flow into the developing tank of the developing section.

13. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The cleaning device has: The developing section uses the cleaning solution to remove the unexposed areas of the flexographic printing plate original to perform the developing process; and The rinsing section supplies rinsing solution to the developed flexographic printing plate original that has been removed from the developing section. The rinsing section is provided on the downstream side of the flexographic printing plate original in the traveling direction of the developing section.

14. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 13, wherein, The cleaning device also has a pre-rinsing section between the rinsing section and the developing section, which supplies the cleaning solution to the flexible printing plate original after the developing process.

15. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The rinsing section has a spray nozzle that supplies the rinsing solution to the flexographic printing plate original after development. For the spray nozzle, the amount of rinsing liquid supplied per unit area of ​​the developed flexographic printing plate original to which the rinsing liquid is supplied is 0.3–7 kg / m². 2 .

16. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The developing section uses the cleaning solution stored in the developing tank for developing. The rinsing solution supplied from the rinsing section to the flexographic printing plate original after development flows into the developing tank of the developing section.

17. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 14, wherein, The developing section uses the cleaning solution stored in the developing tank for developing. The rinsing solution supplied from the rinsing section to the flexographic printing plate original after development and the cleaning solution supplied from the pre-rinsing section to the flexographic printing plate original after development flow into the developing tank of the developing section.

18. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, A steering rod that contacts the flexible printing plate original is provided in the curved section formed by the curved conveyor path.

19. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The guide has a loading and unloading unit that fixes both the front and rear ends of the flexographic printing plate original and releases the flexographic printing plate original based on the guide.

20. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 18, wherein, The steering rod, which is located on the curved conveyor path, moves forward and backward relative to the curved conveyor path.

21. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The original flexible printing plate is immersed in the cleaning solution for development.

22. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The conveying direction of the flexographic printing plate original includes the upward direction and the downward direction.

23. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 19, wherein, The flexographic printing plate is fixed to the guide using pins.

24. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 23, wherein, The flexographic printing plate is secured using multiple pins. The loading and unloading unit has an extrusion section that presses between the pins of the flexographic printing plate to remove the pins, thereby disassembling the flexographic printing plate.

25. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 23, wherein, The pin has barbs.

26. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 23, wherein, In the pin, a resin layer, a plating layer, or a diamond-like carbon layer is provided on the surface in contact with the flexographic printing plate, or multiple protrusions and recesses are formed on the surface in contact with the flexographic printing plate.

27. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 19, wherein, The cleaning device has a back plate portion on the back side of the flexographic printing plate original. With the back plate disposed on the back side of the flexographic printing plate original, the front and rear ends of the flexographic printing plate original are fixed to the guide by the loading and unloading unit.

28. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The cleaning device has a sensor for detecting the guide. The guide is positioned based on the detection of the guide by the sensor.

29. A cleaning method, wherein a flexographic printing plate original after imaging exposure is conveyed while a cleaning solution is used for development, wherein... The development process involves fixing both the front and rear ends of the flexographic printing plate and applying tension to the flexographic printing plate. The tension applied to the flexographic printing plate after it is fixed is greater than the tension applied to the flexographic printing plate when it is fixed. The transport path for conveying the flexographic printing plate is formed as a cyclic transport path with both curved and straight transport paths. The guides used to fix the front and rear ends of the flexographic printing plate original move along the conveying path.

30. The cleaning method according to claim 29, wherein, The conveying direction of the flexographic printing plate original includes the upward direction and the downward direction.

31. The cleaning method according to claim 29, wherein, The original flexible printing plate is immersed in the cleaning solution for development.

32. The cleaning method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein, The flexographic printing plate is fixed to the guide using pins.

33. The cleaning method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein, After the development process, there is a rinsing process that supplies rinsing solution to the flexographic printing plate original after the development is completed.

34. The cleaning method according to claim 33, wherein, Between the developing process and the rinsing process, there is a pre-rinsing process in which the cleaning solution is supplied to the flexographic printing plate original after the developing process is completed.

35. The cleaning method according to claim 33, wherein, The rinsing process involves supplying the rinsing solution to the flexographic printing plate original after development using a spray nozzle. For the spray nozzle, the amount of rinsing liquid supplied per unit area of ​​the developed flexographic printing plate original to which the rinsing liquid is supplied is 0.3–7 kg / m². 2 .

36. The cleaning method according to claim 33, wherein, The cleaning solution stored in the developing tank is used in the developing process. The rinsing solution supplied to the flexographic printing plate original after development during the rinsing process flows into the developing tank.

37. The cleaning method according to claim 34, wherein, The cleaning solution stored in the developing tank is used in the developing process. The rinsing solution supplied to the flexographic printing plate original after development in the rinsing process and the cleaning solution supplied to the flexographic printing plate original after development in the pre-rinsing process flow into the developing tank.

Images