Apparatus and method for manipulating a plate

Abstract

System for moving a flexible sheet (P), in particular a printing sheet or a printing sheet precursor, on a support surface in the direction of a treatment station (S2), such as a washing station, said system comprising: a support body (100) configured to support a sheet on its support surface and intended to be located upstream of said treatment station; a moving device (200) comprising sheet engagement means (250) configured to come into contact with a sheet in such a way as to engage with said sheet by adhesion or friction or a combination thereof in a moving mode and in which, by controlling said moving device (200), said sheet can slide on said support surface; a control device configured to control said moving device so as to cause said sheet to slide on said support body in the direction of said treatment station.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The field of the invention relates to an apparatus and method for handling a plate, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor. More in particular, the invention relates to an apparatus and method for aligning a leading edge of a plate, and to an apparatus and method for moving a plate, in particular a flexible plate. BACKGROUND

[0002] Printing plates need to be transported between various processing stations. Examples of processes that a printing plate can be subjected to are: cutting, ablation, electromagnetic radiation exposure, development, washing, brushing, rinsing, spraying, drying, irradiation, heating, cooling, removal of material, treatment with a gas or liquid, sanding, cutting, treatment with electromagnetic waves, and combinations thereof.

[0003] For flexographic printing, automated movement of the plate has been used for transport of the plate within a washing station and for preceding or subsequent processing steps. For example, the plate is moved from an imaging station to a curing station and then to a washing station. Known systems can use conveyor belts. In addition, a transport bar can be used to move a printing plate precursor, for example through a washing station. For this purpose, a certain area of the printing plate precursor can be provided with a series of through holes at a punching station. An example of a washing machine apparatus with a transport bar system is disclosed in PCT application PCT / EP2019 / 060370 in the name of the applicant. However, not all parts of the production process can use conveyor and transport bar systems.

[0004] When transporting a printing plate between different processing stations, the printing plate can need to be aligned and / or translated and / or rotated. Existing automated plate transport systems are not suitable for all steps. In particular when the plate needs to be aligned and / or rotated, it is often necessary for a human operator to manipulate and position the plate.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need in the art for an improved system for transport and alignment of a plate to reduce the operations of an operator. SUMMARY

[0006] It is an object of further embodiments of the invention to provide a system and method for moving a flexible plate, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, in a direction towards a processing station, for example a washing station, on a support surface, more in particular to provide a method or system that allows the plate to slide on the support surface in an improved manner and / or that allows the plate to couple / decouple from a moving device in an improved manner.

[0007] According to an aspect, there is provided a system for moving a flexible sheet, in particular a printing sheet or a printing sheet precursor, in the direction of a treatment station over a support surface. The system comprises a support body, a moving device and a control device. The support body is configured to support the sheet on its support surface and is intended to be located upstream of the treatment station. The moving device comprises a sheet engagement head configured to contact the sheet in such a way that it engages the sheet by means of its adhesive or frictional forces or a combination thereof and can slide the sheet over the support surface by controlling the moving device. The control device is configured to control the moving device such that the sheet is slid over the support body in the direction of the treatment station.

[0008] Such a moving device allows the sheet to be slid, i.e. moved, pushed or pulled, over the support surface while allowing the sheet to be translated and / or rotated, thereby enabling any desired way of moving the sheet. The engagement device has the advantage of being simple and robust. The sheet is not lifted: preferably, the sheet engagement device actively or simply presses the sheet against the support surface by means of gravity during the sliding of the sheet over the support surface.

[0009] Preferably, the moving device is configured to move the sheet engagement device vertically and to translate and / or rotate the sheet engagement device. The vertical movement allows the sheet engagement device to be brought from a rest position located above the sheet to a contact position in which the sheet engagement device is in contact with the sheet. The translation and / or rotation movement allows the sheet to be translated and rotated to any desired position on the support body.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the sheet engagement device comprises an elastically compressible layer, e.g. a rubber-like layer, for contacting the sheet in the moving mode. Rubber-like materials have the advantage of not leaving any significant marks on the sheet when in contact with the sheet. Furthermore, such an embodiment has the advantage of being simple and robust compared to systems using a plurality of suction cups. The thickness of the layer can be between e.g. 0.5 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 8 mm.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, the sheet engagement device comprises a tacky surface, e.g. a surface comprising a pressure sensitive adhesive material, for contacting the sheet in the moving mode. Such a material can "stick" to the sheet when pressure is applied without leaving marks on the sheet. The tacky contact surface can be achieved by e.g. using a tacky coating or a layer of adhesive tape material. The thickness of such a tacky layer can be below 10 mm, preferably below 5 mm, e.g. between 0.2 mm and 3 mm. The tackiness of the layer, determined according to DIN 53157, can be below 100, preferably below 90, more preferably below 80. In some cases, the tackiness can be below 20 or even 10.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the plate engagement device comprises a contact layer made of a material substantially identical to the material layer properties of the plate. This generally allows to obtain a good frictional contact while not leaving significant marks on the plate.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, the plate engagement device comprises a contact layer comprising any one of the following materials or combinations thereof: silicone rubber, diene rubber, styrene-butadiene (SB) rubber, styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) rubber, styrene-isoprene rubber (SI), styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS) rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, natural rubber or combinations thereof.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the plate engagement device comprises a contact layer made of a polymeric material, such as a polyolefin, a polyester, a polyethylene terephthalate, a polybutylene terephthalate, a polyamide, a polycarbonate or combinations thereof.

[0015] Preferably, the plate engagement device has a flat and smooth contact surface. This allows to achieve a good contact over a larger surface area. The roughness Ra of the surface is generally lower than 5 pm, preferably lower than 2 pm, more preferably lower than 1 pm. Optionally, the contact surface can be provided with grooves or holes. This can further enhance the mutual coupling in the moving mode, in particular when the plate is compressed, as several portions of the plate can slightly extend in the grooves or holes. Alternatively, the contact surface can also be provided with protrusions, which increase the friction between the plate and the engagement device as the protrusions can be pressed into the surface of the plate.

[0016] Preferably, the moving device is configured to press the plate against the support in the moving mode, more preferably at least a portion of the plate engagement device and / or the plate is compressed in the moving mode.

[0017] Preferably, the plate engagement device is configured to be in contact with the plate over a surface area of more than 100 cm2, preferably more than 200 cm2, more preferably more than 300 cm2. The surface area is more preferably a substantially rectangular surface area. For example, the plate engagement device can comprise a single contact head having a substantially rectangular contact area with a width between 5 cm and 20 cm, more preferably between 7 cm and 18 cm, and a length between 20 cm and 60 cm, more preferably between 30 cm and 50 cm. 2 2 2

[0018] ​​​In an exemplary embodiment, the plate engagement device comprises one or more contact heads, preferably a single contact head. Each contact head has a surface area configured to be pushed against the plate. The control device can then be configured to push the one or more contact heads against the plate such that the friction and / or adhesion between the one or more contact surfaces and the plate allows the plate to slide on the support surface.

[0019] According to an exemplary embodiment, the control device is configured to control the movement device in a first operating mode such that the following sequence of steps is performed:

[0020] - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate at a first position of the plate;

[0021] - moving the plate according to a first trajectory, which can be for example a substantially linear movement;

[0022] - decoupling the plate engagement device from the plate;

[0023] - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate at a second position of the plate different from the first position;

[0024] - moving the plate according to a second trajectory, optionally the movement of the plate according to the second trajectory comprises a substantially 90° rotation of the plate.

[0025] Such an operating mode can be preferred for large plates requiring a rotation.

[0026] The first position can be a position close to the leading edge of the plate, preferably substantially in the middle of the leading edge of the plate. The second position can be located on one side of the centerline of the plate, preferably in a quarter, for example in the front quarter, closest to the second rotation axis. By choosing such positions, the forces can be well distributed when for example the first trajectory is a linear movement along the machine conveying direction and the second trajectory is a rotation. In another embodiment, the second position can be located close to the center of the plate. Furthermore, the plate engagement device can be differently oriented at the first position and at the second position. For example, when the plate engagement device has a substantially rectangular shape with a length and a width, at the first position and at the second position, the length direction can be differently oriented with respect to the movement direction. In an exemplary embodiment, at the first position, the length direction can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the conveying direction, at the second position, the length direction can be oriented substantially parallel to the conveying direction.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises a rotation. In a possible embodiment, one of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises only a translation, and the other one of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises a substantially 90° rotation. In another possible embodiment, each of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises a translation and a rotation, wherein preferably the combination of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises a substantially 90° rotation.

[0028] According to an exemplary embodiment, the control device is configured to control the movement device in a further operation mode such that the following sequence of steps is performed:

[0029] - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate;

[0030] - moving the plate according to a trajectory, the trajectory comprising a rotation and a translation of the plate, preferably a rotation of 90° or a rotation of 180°;

[0031] - decoupling the plate engagement device from the plate.

[0032] In other words, the plate can be moved in a continuous movement without changing the coupling position. Especially for smaller plates or for linear movements, such an operation mode can be preferred.

[0033] Preferably, the control device is configured to control the movement device depending on the size of the plate. For example, the control device is configured to determine whether the plate is larger than a predetermined size and is configured to perform the sequence of steps of the first operation mode described above if it is determined that the plate is larger than the predetermined size and to perform the sequence of steps of the further operation mode described above if it is determined that the plate is not larger than the predetermined size.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, the movement device comprises an articulated robot arm, as more particularly defined in some of the embodiments described below.

[0035] Preferably, the control device is configured to control the movement device such that a rotation of substantially 90° is performed while pushing or pulling the plate towards the processing station. In this way, the orientation of the plate can be changed from a position in which the shortest direction of the plate is oriented towards the machine conveying direction to a position in which the longest direction of the plate is oriented towards the machine conveying direction or vice versa. This can be particularly useful for large plates when, for example, conveying from an exposure station to a cleaning station.

[0036] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support comprises a passive ball transfer conveyor comprising a plurality of rotatably mounted balls protruding from a support surface. The plurality of balls can be arranged along a regular grid, for example at equal distances from each other in the machine conveying direction. Preferably, the distance between adjacent balls of the plurality of balls is between 5 cm and 50 cm. Preferably, the diameter of the plurality of balls is between 5 mm and 50 mm. Preferably, the plurality of balls protrude from the support surface with a height of less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, for example between 0.5 mm and 4 mm. Preferably, the support surface between the plurality of balls is a flat surface. Preferably, the plate engagement device is pressed against the plate or placed on the plate by gravity. Due to the presence of the balls, the plate engagement device can slightly move up and down during the movement of the plate. This will not hinder the movement due to the compressibility of the contact layer of the plate and / or the plate engagement device.

[0037] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support comprises a first support portion, e.g. a table, e.g. a glass table of an exposure station, and a second support portion, e.g. a ball transfer conveyor, having a gap between the first support portion and the second support portion when seen in a downstream direction. The control device can then be configured to control the moving device such that the plate is moved from the first support portion to the second support portion in a downstream direction. Optionally, the system further comprises a blowing device configured to blow air through the gap between the first support portion and the second support portion and / or the conveying portion, e.g. a set of rollers or ball transfers. Such intermediate blowing device or other device will facilitate the conveying from the first support portion to the second support portion.

[0038] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support comprises at least a first table portion and a second table portion, wherein the processing station is a second processing station, and wherein the first processing station is located at an edge of the first table portion, wherein the second table portion is located downstream of the first table portion when seen in a machine conveying direction towards the second processing station, wherein the first table portion is movable, preferably hinged, such that it can be moved away or folded up to allow an operator to access the first processing station. Optionally, the support further comprises a third table portion located downstream of the second table portion, wherein the second processing station is located at an edge of the third table portion. The third table portion is movable, preferably hinged, such that it can be moved away or folded up to allow an operator to access the second processing station.

[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, the support comprises a table provided with a plurality of holes, and the system further comprises a blowing device configured to blow air through the holes in a direction towards a plate supported on the table to reduce the friction between the plate and the table. In this way, the force required to slide the plate over the support surface can be reduced. Preferably, the blowing can be performed over the entire contact surface between the support surface and the plate.

[0040] Preferably, the plate engagement device is arranged rotatable around a third rotation axis perpendicular to the support surface. The control device can then comprise a drive device configured to rotate the plate engagement device around the third rotation axis. This allows to couple the plate engagement device to the plate in any desired orientation, which can improve the force exerted on the plate when sliding the plate over the support surface. For example, when the plate engagement device is rectangular, this allows positioning such that the length direction is perpendicular to the machine conveying direction.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises a detection assembly configured to detect a measure representative of the position of the board, wherein the control device is configured to control the moving device as a function of the measure detected by the detection assembly. The detection assembly can be configured to detect whether the board is accurately aligned at the entrance of the treatment station. For example, the embodiment of the apparatus with movable elements described below can be used for this purpose.

[0042] Preferably, the moving device and the control device are configured to move a board having a weight comprised between 6 kg and 30 kg, i.e. a relatively heavy board, which is placed on the support surface during the movement.

[0043] According to another aspect, there is provided a method for moving a flexible board, in particular a printing board or a printing board precursor, on a support surface in the direction of a treatment station, such as a washing station, said method comprising the steps of:

[0044] - supporting the board on a support surface located upstream of the treatment station;

[0045] - sliding the board on the support surface using a moving device comprising board engagement means;

[0046] - controlling the moving device so that the board engagement means engage the board by friction and / or adhesion and / or suction forces, and so that the board slides on the support surface in the direction of the treatment station.

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, the control step is performed so that the following sequence of steps is executed: coupling the board engagement means to the board at a first position of the board; moving the board according to a first trajectory; decoupling the board engagement means from the board; coupling the board engagement means to the board at a second position of the board different from the first position; moving the board according to a second trajectory. The preferred features related to this sequence have been explained above in relation to the embodiment of the system, and are also applicable to said method.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, the control step is performed so that the following sequence of steps is executed: coupling the board engagement means to the board; moving the board according to a trajectory comprising a rotation and / or a translation of the board, preferably a rotation of 90° or 180°; decoupling the board engagement means from the board.

[0049] Preferably, the control step comprises controlling the moving device as a function of the size of the board. For example, a first sequence of steps can be executed if the board is larger than a predetermined size, and a second sequence of steps can be executed if it is determined that the board is not larger than the predetermined size.

[0050] Optionally, said method further comprises a step of detecting a measure representative of the position of the board, wherein the control step comprises controlling the rotation of the board as a function of the detected measure. The detection can comprise detecting whether the board is accurately aligned at the entrance of the treatment station.

[0051] The plate engagement device used in the method can be implemented as described above for the system or as described in the other embodiments below.

[0052] It is an object of other embodiments of the present application to provide an apparatus and a method for aligning an edge, typically a leading edge, of a plate which is robust and simple and provides reliable results.

[0053] According to another aspect of the present application, an apparatus for aligning an edge of a plate, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, is provided. The apparatus comprises a support body, at least two movable elements, a detection device, at least one controllable component and a control device. The support body is configured to support a plate in a support surface and is intended to be located upstream of a processing station, for example a washing station. The at least two movable elements are arranged to be moved by an edge, typically a leading edge, of the plate. The at least two movable elements comprise a first movable element and a second movable element. The detection device is configured to detect a first measurement value and a second measurement value representing a first position and a second position of the first movable element and the second movable element, respectively. The at least one controllable component is configured to exert an action on the plate. The control device is configured to control the at least one controllable component based on the first measurement value and the second measurement value.

[0054] By using at least two movable elements in combination with a detection device to detect a first measurement value and a second measurement value representing a first position and a second position of the first movable element and the second movable element, it can be determined whether the edge of the plate is aligned. This is a robust and simple apparatus which can easily be added to any support body and provides reliable results. In this way, the processing is faster and less handling by an operator is required. Furthermore, embodiments of the present application have the advantage over prior art solutions using for example optical sensors to directly detect the edge in that the detection device can be arranged such that it is not influenced by varying environmental conditions, such as an image on the plate, since the detection device detects measurement values representing the position of the movable elements.

[0055] Preferably, the at least two movable elements are arranged such that they protrude through the support surface in their starting position. This embodiment has the advantage that the movable elements do not obstruct other components and that the detection can be performed below the support surface. However, in other embodiments, the movable elements can be provided above the support surface and the plate can be passed below the movable elements.

[0056] Preferably, the at least one controllable component comprises a moving device configured to move the plate on the support surface. In this way, the movement of the plate can be controlled by the control device depending on the first and second measured values measured by the detection device. For example, the moving device can be configured to rotate the plate around an axis perpendicular to the support surface to improve the alignment and, once the difference between the first and second measured values is below a predetermined threshold, it can be determined that the plate is aligned.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the moving device is configured to rotate the plate around an axis perpendicular to the support surface and to translate the plate parallel to the support surface. Then, the control device can be configured to first translate and / or rotate the plate until the edge is in contact with the at least two movable elements, then it can further rotate the plate until the difference between the first and second measured values is below a predetermined threshold, and then it can further translate the plate above or below the at least two movable elements.

[0058] Preferably, the at least two movable elements are at least two pivotable pins arranged to be pivoted by the edge of the plate. The pivotable elements are easily installed in the support body so that they protrude through the support surface, or above the support body, and the angle at which the pivotable elements pivot is a direct and accurate measure of the position of the point of contact with the edge.

[0059] More preferably, the at least two pivotable pins comprise a first pivotable pin and a second pivotable pin, and the detection device is configured to detect the first and second measured values representative of the first and second angles of the first and second pivotable pins. The at least two pivotable pins can extend below and / or above the support surface, and the detection device, for example an angle detection device, can be arranged below the support surface, where it is not affected by measurement disturbing factors, or above the support body at a distance from the support surface, and preferably so that it is not affected by the features of the plate, for example images or colors.

[0060] In an exemplary embodiment, the at least two pins are arranged and configured so that they are directed in an upstream direction, preferably at an angle of between 15 and 75 degrees with respect to the support surface, when not touched by the edge of the plate. In this way, for example, the pins can be moved from a first starting position in which they are directed in an upstream direction (i.e. in the direction towards the approaching edge) to a position perpendicular to the support surface, and then to a position in which the pins are directed in a downstream direction, and the plate can be moved above the pins.

[0061] In an exemplary embodiment, the at least two pivotable pins are movable between a starting position and an end position, and a biasing device (e.g. a weight attached to the at least two pivotable pins, or a spring device) is configured to exert a force on the edge of the plate in the upstream direction, wherein optionally a further biasing device (e.g. a piston) is provided for forcing the at least two pivotable pins in the end position. Preferably, the end position is a position below the support surface or significantly above the support surface, to avoid damage.

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment, the at least two pivotable pins are pivotably arranged around a pivot axis, and the pivot axis is located at a distance of more than 5 cm below or above the support surface, preferably at a distance of more than 10 cm below or above the support surface. In this way, the edge can be moved over a relatively large distance on the support surface while remaining in contact with the pivotable pins. In fact, the larger the distance between the pivot axis and the support surface, the larger the distance the edge can be moved parallel to the support body while remaining in contact with the gradually pivoting pins. This will further improve the accuracy of the alignment of the plate.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the at least two movable elements and the support body are configured such that the at least two movable elements can be moved below or significantly above or flush with the support surface when the plate is passed above or below the at least two movable elements. Such an embodiment is particularly advantageous when it is desired to first align a plate moving in the machine transport direction, and then to move the plate further in the machine transport direction across the at least two movable elements. However, in other embodiments in which the at least one controllable component comprises for example a punching device, it can not be required that the at least two movable elements can be moved below or significantly above the support surface. In this case, the punching action can be performed when the difference between the first and second measurement values is below a predetermined threshold value, at which point the plate can be removed without the need to pass the plate above or below the at least two movable elements.

[0064] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support body is a support table provided with at least two slots through which the at least two movable elements protrude. When the movable members are pivotable pins, the slots can be dimensioned such that the pivotable pins can be moved from a rest position in which the pins point in the upstream direction to a position in which the pins point in the downstream direction, and optionally to an end position in which the pins are located below the support surface or flush with the support surface.

[0065] According to an exemplary embodiment, each pivotable pin comprises a first elongated portion and a second elongated portion, wherein the second elongated portion is angled relative to the first elongated portion between 120 degrees and 175 degrees. Preferably, in the home position, the second elongated portion extends at least partially above the support surface, while the first elongated portion extends below the support surface.

[0066] According to a preferred embodiment, the detection means are arranged below the support surface. In this way, the detection means are not disturbed by changing environments such as images on the board. For example, when the movable elements are pivotable pins, the detection means can comprise an angle sensor for each pin, preferably arranged close to the pivot axis of the pivotable pin. According to another embodiment, the detection means are arranged above the support surface, preferably such that they are not influenced by the properties of the board.

[0067] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support body can be configured such that the support surface is an inclined surface. Especially when the processing station located downstream of the movable elements is a washing station, it can be advantageous to slightly incline the support surface downward in the direction of the washing station.

[0068] According to an exemplary embodiment, the at least one controllable component comprises any one or more of: a punching device, a board coupling device, a board clamping device.

[0069] According to an exemplary embodiment, the moving device comprises any one or more of: at least one robot arm, a set of rollers, a set of chains, a set of belts.

[0070] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least two movable elements are intended to engage with the leading edge of the board and are used to align the board such that the leading edge is oriented substantially perpendicular to a machine conveying direction along which the board is intended to move through the apparatus.

[0071] According to another exemplary embodiment, the at least two movable elements can be used to center the board with the side edge in contact with one of the movable elements. For such an embodiment, preferably, the moving device is configured to translate the board parallel to the support surface in a direction perpendicular to the machine conveying direction, wherein the control device is configured to control the moving device until the measured value of the pin in contact with the side edge is within a predetermined range.

[0072] According to an exemplary embodiment, the moving device comprises an articulated operating arm configured to translate and / or rotate the plate so that its edge moves in the direction of the at least two movable elements. Optionally, the moving device further comprises a plate engagement device at the end of the articulated operating arm configured to contact the plate in such a way that the movement of the operating arm causes the plate to slide on the support surface. The plate engagement device can be a suction device, a clamping device, or simply a head with a contact surface that presses against the plate. In the latter case, the friction, adhesion between the contact surface and the plate can be sufficient to enable the plate to slide on the support surface.

[0073] Preferably, the control device is configured to compare the first measurement value and the second measurement value and to determine that the plate edge is aligned or that the plate is centered if the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value is smaller than a predetermined threshold value.

[0074] Preferably, the distance between the first movable element and the second movable element is in the range of 10 cm to 1000 cm, preferably in the range of 10 cm to 500 cm, more preferably in the range of 10 cm to 100 cm.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment, two movable elements are used to align the leading edge. However, three or more movable elements can also be used.

[0076] In another developed embodiment, two movable elements are provided for aligning the leading edge of a plate moving in the machine conveying direction, and one or two other movable elements are provided for centering the plate in a direction perpendicular to the machine conveying direction. When using pivotable pins, the pins for aligning the leading edge can be pivoted in a plane parallel to the machine conveying direction and perpendicular to the support surface, while the other pin or pins for centering the plate can be pivoted in a plane perpendicular to the machine conveying direction and perpendicular to the support surface.

[0077] Preferably, the plate is a rectangular plate.

[0078] The detection device can comprise any of the following: an optical detection device, a proximity detection device, a pressure detection device, an electrical detection device, a magnetic detection device, a mechanical detection device, a ferrous / non-ferrous metal detection device, or a combination thereof. Examples of suitable detection devices include angle sensors, proximity switches, light sensors, mechanical switches, magnetic switches, video cameras, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the detection device comprises a first detector and a second detector for detecting at the first movable element and the second movable element, respectively. However, certain detection devices, such as video cameras, can also examine the first movable element and the second movable element simultaneously.

[0079] In embodiments wherein the at least one controllable component comprises a punching device, the punching device can comprise a driving device configured to arrange one or more piercing elements or perforating elements through or in the edge portion of the plate. The driving device can be, for example, a hammer, which is movably arranged such that it can engage with the edge portion of the raised plate precursor in order to arrange one or more piercing elements or perforating elements through or in the edge portion of the plate.

[0080] According to another aspect, there is provided an apparatus for detecting or positioning an edge of a plate, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, the apparatus comprising: a support body configured to support the plate on a support surface and intended to be positioned upstream of a processing station; at least one pivotable pin arranged to be moved by the edge of the plate; a detection device configured to detect at least one measurement representative of a position of the at least one pivotable pin, wherein preferably the detection device is arranged below the support surface; at least one controllable component configured to exert an action on the plate; and a control device configured to control the at least one controllable component based on the at least one measurement. Preferably, the at least one pivotable pin protrudes through the support surface.

[0081] Embodiments with a single pivotable pin can provide a simple and robust mechanism to detect the edge of a plate, in particular when the plate is moved against and optionally above or below the pivotable pin.

[0082] Any of the features of the pivotable pin, the detection device, the controllable component, the support body and the control device described above can be used in embodiments of the previous aspect

[0083] According to an aspect of the present application, there is provided a system comprising an apparatus of any of the embodiments described above and a processing station, the processing station being positioned downstream of the support body and configured to receive the aligned plate.

[0084] According to exemplary embodiments, the processing in the processing station is selected from the group consisting of cleaning, brushing, rinsing, spraying, drying, irradiation, development, heating, cooling, removing material, treating with a gas or a liquid, sanding, cutting, treating with electromagnetic waves, ablation, measuring and combinations thereof.

[0085] According to exemplary embodiments, the processing in the processing station is a thermal treatment to liquefy a portion of the raised plate precursor, and then to bring the liquefied portion in contact with a moving receiver material (e.g. a mesh, a non-woven material or a foil), the molten material adhering to the receiver material and continuously moving out of the liquefied portion with the receiver material.

[0086] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of aligning an edge, typically a leading edge, of a plate, the method comprising the steps of:

[0087] - providing a plate having at least one substantially linear edge, typically a leading edge;

[0088] - coupling the plate to a movable device;

[0089] - moving the plate over a support surface such that the edge comes into contact with at least two movable elements;

[0090] - detecting the position of the at least two movable elements;

[0091] - controlling the movable device based on the result of the detection.

[0092] The movable elements can have any one or more of the features described above. Preferably, the movable elements are pivotable elements.

[0093] Preferably, the at least two movable elements are arranged such that they protrude over the support surface in a starting position of the at least two movable elements, wherein during the moving step the at least two movable elements are moved from the starting position to an end position. Alternatively, the at least two movable elements can be arranged above the support surface and can be moved upwards when moving from the starting position to the end position.

[0094] Optionally, the plate is decoupled from the movable device when it is detected that the movement of the at least two movable elements caused by the leading edge is substantially the same.

[0095] Preferably, the step of controlling the movable device based on the result of the detection comprises rotating and / or translating the plate until the position difference between a first movable element and a second movable element of the at least two movable elements is smaller than a predetermined threshold.

[0096] Preferably, the plate is a printing plate or a printing plate precursor. However, the method can also be used for other plates, such as printed circuit boards, hardboard, metal sheets or wood sheets, etc.

[0097] Preferably, the moving step comprises moving the plate such that its leading edge comes into contact with the at least two movable elements, and the method further comprises sending the plate to a processing unit when it is detected that the position difference between a first movable element and a second movable element of the at least two movable elements is smaller than a predetermined threshold.

[0098] Preferably, when the plate is sent to the processing unit, the at least two movable elements are moved below the support surface, or are moved well above the support surface so as to be positioned above the plate.

[0099] In a possible embodiment, the method further comprises centering the plate with respect to an inlet of a processing unit arranged downstream of the at least two movable elements. Optionally, the at least two movable elements comprise a first pair of movable elements and a third movable element, and the moving step comprises moving a leading edge of the plate against the first pair of movable elements and moving a side edge of the plate against the third movable element, respectively. In this way, alignment of the leading edge and centering of the plate can be achieved.

[0100] It is an object of further embodiments of the present invention to provide a system and method for moving a flexible plate, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, on a support surface in the direction of a processing station, e.g. a washing station, more in particular a system and method for sliding the plate on the support surface in an improved way.

[0101] According to an aspect, there is provided a system for moving a flexible plate, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, on a support surface in the direction of a processing station. The system comprises a support body, an articulated operating arm and a control device. The support body, typically a table, is configured to support the plate on its support surface and is intended to be located upstream of the processing station. The articulated operating arm extends substantially parallel to the support surface and comprises at least a first section and a second section. A first end of the first section is rotatably connected to the second section about a first rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the support surface and a second end is provided with a plate engagement device configured to come into contact with the plate in such a way that movement of the operating arm causes sliding of the plate on the support surface. The second section is rotatable about a second rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the support surface. The control device is configured to control the plate engagement device and to control the rotation of the first section and the second section of the articulated operating arm so as to slide the plate on the support surface in the direction of the processing station.

[0102] Such an articulated operating arm allows the plate to slide, i.e. to be moved or pushed or pulled, on the support surface while allowing the plate to rotate about the first movable rotation axis and the second fixed rotation axis, thereby enabling any desired movement pattern of the plate. Preferably, the plate is not lifted during the sliding of the plate on the support surface; on the contrary, preferably the plate engagement device presses the plate against the support surface.

[0103] Preferably, the plate engagement device is configured to couple the first section with the plate by suction, adhesion or friction forces or a combination thereof. Preferably, the plate engagement device rests on the plate under the action of gravity.

[0104] In an exemplary embodiment, the plate engagement device comprises one or more suction cups, preferably at least two suction cups. In a preferred embodiment, each suction cup has a portion for contact with the plate, said portion being made of a porous material, preferably of a porous metal, ceramic or plastic. Preferably, the portion for contact with the plate is substantially flat.

[0105] In another exemplary embodiment, the plate engagement device comprises one or more contact heads, preferably at least two contact heads, each contact head having a contact surface configured to be pushed against the plate. The control device can then be configured to push the one or more contact heads against the plate such that the frictional and / or adhesive forces between the one or more contact heads and the plate allow the plate to be slid over the support surface by the manipulator arm. For example, the contact surface can be made of a material that "sticks" to the plate when pressure is applied, without leaving marks on the plate. For example, a pressure sensitive adhesive can be attached to the engagement device.

[0106] Preferably, the control device is configured to control the articulated arm such that a rotation of substantially 90° is performed while pushing or pulling the plate towards the processing station. In this way, the orientation of the plate can be changed from a position in which the shortest direction of the plate is oriented towards the machine transport direction to a position in which the longest direction of the plate is oriented towards the machine transport direction, or vice versa. This can be particularly useful for large plates, for example when the plate is transported from an exposure station to a cleaning station.

[0107] In an exemplary embodiment, the support body is a worktable, the worktable is provided with a plurality of holes, and the system further comprises a blowing device configured to blow air through the holes towards the direction of a plate supported on the worktable to reduce the frictional forces between the plate and the worktable. In this way, the force required to slide the plate over the support surface can be reduced. Preferably, the blowing can be performed over the entire contact surface between the support surface and the plate.

[0108] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support body comprises a passive ball transfer conveyor comprising a plurality of rotatably mounted balls protruding from the support surface. The plurality of balls can be arranged along a regular grid, for example at equal distances from each other in the machine transport direction. Preferably, the distance between adjacent balls of the plurality of balls is between 5 cm and 50 cm. Preferably, the diameter of the plurality of balls is between 5 mm and 50 mm. Preferably, the plurality of balls protrude from the support surface with a height of less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, for example between 0.5 mm and 4 mm. Preferably, the support surface between the plurality of balls is a flat surface. Preferably, the plate engagement device is placed on the plate by gravity. When the balls are below the plate engagement device, the plate engagement device can slightly move upwards when moving over the balls. However, due to the plate being typically compressible, such upward movement is typically negligible.

[0109] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support comprises at least a first table portion and a second table portion, wherein the processing station is a second processing station, and wherein the first processing station is located at an edge of the first table portion, wherein the second table portion is located downstream of the first table portion when seen in a machine transport direction towards the second processing station, wherein the first table portion is movable, preferably hinged, so that it can be moved away or folded up to allow an operator to access the first processing station. Optionally, the support further comprises a third table portion located downstream of the second table portion, wherein the second processing station is located at an edge of the third table portion. The third table portion can be movable, preferably hinged, so that it can be moved away or folded up to allow an operator to access the second processing station.

[0110] The control device can comprise a first drive device for controlling the rotation of the first section relative to the second section and a second drive device for controlling the rotation of the second section about the second rotation axis.

[0111] Preferably, the plate engagement device is arranged rotatable about a third rotation axis perpendicular to the support surface. The control device then comprises a drive device configured to rotate the plate engagement device about the third rotation axis. This allows coupling the plate engagement device to the plate in any desired direction, which can improve the forces exerted on the plate when the plate is sliding on the support surface. For example, when the plate engagement device comprises two or more contact heads or suction cups arranged on a holder, this allows positioning the holder perpendicular to the machine transport direction.

[0112] Preferably, at least the plate engagement device is movable in a direction perpendicular to the support surface between a contact position in which the plate engagement device is in contact with the plate and a non-contact position in which the plate engagement device is located at a distance above the plate. In an exemplary embodiment, only the plate engagement device is movable and the sections of the arm are not movable. In another embodiment, the entire handling arm can be movable in a direction perpendicular to the support surface. The control device can then comprise a drive device configured to move at least the plate engagement device and optionally the entire handling arm between the contact position and the non-contact position.

[0113] According to an exemplary embodiment, the control device is configured to control the handling arm in a first operation mode such that the following sequence of steps is performed:

[0114] - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate at a first position of the plate;

[0115] - moving the plate according to a first trajectory, which can be for example a substantially linear movement;

[0116] - decoupling the plate engagement device from the plate;

[0117] - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate at a second position of the plate different from the first position;

[0118] - moving the plate according to a second trajectory, optionally the movement of the plate according to the second trajectory comprises a rotation of the plate of substantially 90 degrees.

[0119] Such an operating mode can be preferred for large plates that need to be rotated.

[0120] The first position can be a position close to the leading edge of the plate, preferably substantially in the middle of the leading edge of the plate. The second position can be located on one side of the centerline of the plate, preferably in a quarter, for example in the front quarter, closest to the second rotation axis. By choosing such positions, the forces can be well distributed when for example the first trajectory is a linear movement along the conveying direction of the machine and the second trajectory is a rotation. In another embodiment, the second position can be close to the center of the plate. Furthermore, the plate engagement device can be differently oriented in the first position and in the second position. For example, when the plate engagement device has a substantially rectangular shape with a length and a width, in the first position and in the second position, the length direction can be differently oriented with respect to the movement direction. In an exemplary embodiment, in the first position, the length direction can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the conveying direction, in the second position, the length direction can be oriented substantially parallel to the conveying direction.

[0121] In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises a rotation. In a possible embodiment, one of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises only a translation, and the other one of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises a rotation of substantially 90°. In another possible embodiment, each of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises a translation and a rotation, preferably the combination of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises a rotation of substantially 90°.

[0122] According to an exemplary embodiment, the control device is configured to control the operating arm in another operating mode such that the following sequence of steps is performed:

[0123] - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate;

[0124] - moving the plate according to a trajectory, the trajectory comprising a rotation and / or a translation of the plate, preferably comprising a rotation of 90° or a rotation of 180°;

[0125] - separating the plate engagement device from the plate.

[0126] In other words, the plate can be moved in a continuous movement without changing the coupling position. Such an operating mode can be preferred in particular for smaller plates or for linear movements.

[0127] Preferably, the control device is configured to control the handling arm depending on the size of the board. For example, the control device can be configured to determine whether the board is larger than a predetermined size, and configured to execute the sequence of steps of the first operational mode described above if it is determined that the board is larger than the predetermined size, and to execute the sequence of steps of the other operational mode described above if it is determined that the board is not larger than the predetermined size.

[0128] In an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises a detection assembly configured to detect a measurement representative of the position of the board, wherein the control device is configured to control the rotation of the board engagement device and / or the first section and / or the second section depending on the measurement detected by the detection assembly. The detection assembly can be configured to detect whether the board is accurately aligned at the entrance of the processing station. For example, the embodiment of the apparatus with a movable element as described hereinabove can be used for this purpose.

[0129] Preferably, the articulated handling arm and the control device are configured to move a board having a weight comprised between 6 kg and 30 kg, i.e. a relatively heavy board, which is placed on the support surface during the movement.

[0130] According to another aspect, there is provided a method for moving a flexible board, in particular a printing board or a printing board precursor, on a support surface in the direction of a processing station, such as a washing station, the method comprising the steps of:

[0131] - supporting the board on a support surface located upstream of the processing station;

[0132] - sliding the board on the support surface using an articulated handling arm extending substantially parallel to the support surface and comprising at least a first section having a board engagement device and a second section rotatably connected to said first section about a first rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the support surface, said second section being rotatable about a second rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the support surface, wherein preferably the board engagement device engages the board by friction, adhesion and / or suction;

[0133] - controlling the rotation of the first section and the second section of the articulated handling arm so that the board slides on the support surface in the direction of the processing station.

[0134] In an exemplary embodiment, the control step is performed so as to execute the following sequence of steps: coupling the board engagement device to the board at a first position of the board; moving the board according to a first trajectory; decoupling the board engagement device from the board; coupling the board engagement device to the board at a second position of the board different from the first position; moving the board according to a second trajectory. The preferred features related to this sequence have been explained hereinabove in relation to the embodiment of the system, and are also applicable to said method.

[0135] In an exemplary embodiment, the controlling step is performed such that the following sequence of steps is executed: coupling the plate engaging device to the plate; moving the plate according to a trajectory, the trajectory comprising a rotation and / or a translation of the plate, preferably a rotation of 90° or 180°; decoupling the plate engaging device from the plate.

[0136] Preferably, the controlling step comprises controlling the manipulator arm depending on the size of the plate. For example, if the plate is larger than a predetermined size, a first sequence of steps can be executed, and if it is determined that the plate is not larger than the predetermined size, a second sequence of steps can be executed.

[0137] Optionally, the method further comprises a step of detecting a measurement representative of the position of the plate, wherein the controlling step comprises controlling the rotation of the first section and / or the second section depending on the detected measurement. The detection can comprise detecting whether the plate is accurately aligned at the entrance of the processing station.

[0138] According to an aspect of the application, there is provided a system for moving a flexible plate, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, in the direction of a processing station, e.g. a washing station, on a support surface. The system comprises a support body and a moving device for moving the plate. The support body is configured to support the plate on its support surface and is intended to be located upstream of the processing station. The moving device comprises a plate engaging device configured to engage with the plate when moving the plate on the support surface. The plate engaging device comprises one or more contact bodies configured to be in a coupled state in contact with the plate when the plate is moved, or in a decoupled state at a distance from the plate, and one or more pusher elements configured to push the plate when the one or more contact bodies change from the coupled state to the decoupled state. The plate engaging device is configured to switch between the coupled state and the decoupled state by moving the one or more contact bodies relative to the one or more pusher elements.

[0139] By using such pusher elements, it is easy to change the one or more contact bodies from the coupled state to the decoupled state without the risk that the plate remains attached to the one or more contact bodies. In other words, the plate can be released in an improved manner. Indeed, as the plate and / or the one or more contact bodies can have a "sticky" property, the one or more pusher elements will facilitate avoiding that the plate remains attached when the one or more contact bodies are moved away from the plate. Furthermore, this will reduce or avoid alignment issues, as the plate will remain stationary during the decoupling.

[0140] Preferably, the one or more contact bodies are provided with one or more holes, and the one or more pusher elements extend through said one or more holes. In alternative embodiments, the one or more pusher elements can be provided adjacent to the one or more contact bodies, e.g. along the outer periphery of the one or more contact bodies. In another example, a plurality of contact bodies is provided, and the one or more pusher elements can be located between adjacent contact bodies.

[0141] In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more pusher elements are formed as one or more pin-like elements. For example, the pusher elements can be bolts, one end of which is fixed in a support, such as a bracket, and further, the other end is provided with a head for pushing against the plate when the one or more contact bodies are moved away from the plate. However, different shaped pusher elements can also be used, such as rod-like, circular or rectangular pusher elements. In some cases, the pusher elements can surround the contact bodies.

[0142] Preferably, the plate engagement device comprises a bracket on which the one or more pusher elements are fixed, and one or more drives configured to move the one or more contact bodies relative to the bracket. The one or more pusher elements extend from the bracket in the direction of the support. For example, the one or more drives can comprise one or more pistons, such as one or more air pistons, which are mounted, for example, on the bracket, wherein one end of the movable piston extends through a hole in the bracket and is attached to the contact body.

[0143] In a further developed embodiment, the one or more contact bodies can be mounted such that the one or more contact bodies can be pivoted about an axis parallel to the support surface to a limited extent. In this way, the plate can be better engaged. For example, the one or more drives can be arranged such that the one or more contact bodies can be pivoted relative to the bracket to a limited extent. For example, the one or more pistons can be pivotably connected to the bracket.

[0144] Preferably, the one or more contact bodies comprise a first contact body and a second contact body located on either side of the center of the bracket. In this way, larger plates can also be moved in a reliable manner.

[0145] Preferably, the one or more contact bodies are one or more plate-like elements. Preferably, each plate-like element is provided with a plurality of holes for the corresponding plurality of pusher elements, more preferably at least four holes. For example, the holes can be circular and the pusher elements can be pin-like pusher elements. According to another example, the holes can be rectangular and the pusher elements can be rod-like. The skilled person will understand that many other shapes are also possible within the scope of the invention.

[0146] Preferably, as described in the next aspect below, the plate engagement device is configured to engage with the plate in the coupled state by means of adhesive force or frictional force or a combination thereof.

[0147] According to an aspect, there is provided a system for moving a flexible plate, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, in the direction of a processing station over a support surface. The system comprises a support body, a moving device and a control device. The support body is configured to support the plate on its support surface and is intended to be located upstream of the processing station. The moving device comprises a plate engagement head configured to contact the plate in such a way that it engages with the plate by means of adhesive or frictional forces or a combination thereof and can cause the plate to slide over the support surface by controlling the moving device. The control device is configured to control the moving device so that the plate slides over the support body in the direction of the processing station.

[0148] Such a moving device allows the plate to slide, i.e. to be moved, pushed or pulled, over the support surface while allowing the plate to be translated and / or rotated, thereby enabling any desired way of moving the plate. The engagement device has the advantage of being simple and robust. The plate is not lifted: preferably, the plate engagement device is pressed against the support surface by gravity actively or simply during the sliding of the plate over the support surface.

[0149] Preferably, the moving device is configured to move the plate engagement device vertically and to translate and / or rotate the plate engagement device. The vertical movement allows the plate engagement device to be brought from a rest position located above the plate to a contact position in which the plate engagement device is in contact with the plate. The translation and / or rotation movement allows the plate to be translated and rotated to any desired position over the support body.

[0150] In an exemplary embodiment, the plate engagement device, in particular one or each contact body of the plate engagement device, comprises an elastically compressible layer, for example a rubber-like layer, for contacting the plate in the moving mode. Such a rubber-like layer can be arranged on a rigid base, for example a metal plate. The advantage of a rubber-like material is that it does not leave any significant marks on the plate when in contact with the plate. Examples of suitable rubber-like materials are silicone materials, or natural rubber or artificial rubber. Furthermore, such an embodiment has the advantage of being simple and robust compared to systems using a plurality of suction cups. The thickness of the layer can be between for example 0.5 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 8 mm, for example between 4 mm and 8 mm or between 1 mm and 5 mm. Materials that are commonly used for flexible printing plates can be used for the elastically compressible layer.

[0151] In example embodiments, the plate engagement device, in particular one or each contact of the plate engagement device, comprises an adhesive surface, for example a surface comprising a pressure sensitive adhesive material, for contacting the plate in the mobile mode. Such a material can "stick" to the plate when pressure is applied without leaving marks on the plate. The adhesive contact surface can be achieved by, for example, using an adhesive coating or a layer of adhesive tape material. The thickness of such an adhesive layer can be below 10 mm, preferably below 5 mm, for example between 0.2 mm and 3 mm. The adhesion of the layer, determined according to DIN 53157, can be below 100, preferably below 90, more preferably below 80. In some cases, the adhesion can be below 20 or even 10.

[0152] In example embodiments, the plate engagement device, in particular one or each contact of the plate engagement device, comprises a contact layer made of a material substantially identical to the properties of the material layer of the plate. This generally allows a good contact to be achieved by friction without leaving significant marks on the plate.

[0153] In example embodiments, the plate engagement device, in particular one or each contact of the plate engagement device, comprises a contact layer comprising any one of the following materials or combinations thereof: silicone rubber, diene rubber, styrene-butadiene (SB) rubber, styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) rubber, styrene-isoprene rubber (SI), styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS) rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, natural rubber or combinations thereof.

[0154] In example embodiments, the plate engagement device, in particular one or each contact of the plate engagement device, comprises a contact layer made of a polymeric material, for example a polyolefin, a polyester, a polyethylene terephthalate, a polybutylene terephthalate, a polyamide, a polycarbonate, a polysilicone, an ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber, a styrene-butadiene rubber or combinations thereof.

[0155] Preferably, the plate engagement device, in particular one or each contact of the plate engagement device, has a flat smooth contact surface. This allows a good contact to be achieved over a larger surface area. The roughness Ra of the surface is generally below 5 pm, preferably below 2 pm, more preferably below 1 pm. Optionally, the contact surface can be provided with grooves or holes. This can further enhance the mutual coupling in the mobile mode, in particular when the plate is compressed, as several portions of the plate can slightly extend in the grooves or holes. Alternatively, the contact surface can be provided with protrusions, which increase the friction between the plate and the engagement device as the protrusions can be pressed into the surface of the plate.

[0156] Preferably, the moving device is configured to press the plate against the support in the moving mode, wherein more preferably at least a portion of the plate engaging device and / or the plate is compressed in the moving mode.

[0157] Preferably, the plate engaging device is configured to be in contact with the plate over a surface area of more than 100 cm 2 , preferably more than 200 cm 2 , preferably more than 300 cm 2 , the surface area more preferably being a substantially rectangular surface area. For example, the plate engaging device can comprise a single contact head having a substantially rectangular contact area with a width between 5 cm and 20 cm, more preferably between 7 cm and 18 cm, and a length between 20 cm and 60 cm, more preferably between 30 cm and 50 cm.

[0158] In an exemplary embodiment, the plate engaging device comprises one or more contact heads or contact bodies, for example a single contact head. Each contact head has a contact surface configured to be pushed against the plate. The control device can then be configured to push the one or more contact heads against the plate such that the friction and / or adhesion between the one or more contact surfaces and the plate allows the plate to slide over the support surface.

[0159] According to an exemplary embodiment, the control device is configured to control the moving device in a first operating mode such that the following sequence of steps is performed:

[0160] - coupling the plate engaging device to the plate at a first position of the plate;

[0161] - moving the plate according to a first trajectory, which can for example be a substantially linear movement;

[0162] - decoupling the plate engaging device from the plate;

[0163] - coupling the plate engaging device to the plate at a second position of the plate different from the first position;

[0164] - moving the plate according to a second trajectory, optionally the movement of the plate according to the second trajectory comprising a substantially 90 degree rotation of the plate.

[0165] Such an operating mode can be preferred for large plates requiring rotation.

[0166] The first position can be a position close to the front edge of the board, preferably approximately in the middle of the front edge of the board. The second position can be located on one side of the centre line of the board, preferably in a quarter, for example in the front quarter, closest to the second axis of rotation. By choosing such positions, the forces can be well distributed when, for example, the first trajectory is a linear movement along the machine conveying direction and the second trajectory is a rotation. In another embodiment, the second position can be located close to the centre of the board. Furthermore, the board engagement device can be differently oriented in the first position and in the second position. For example, when the board engagement device has a shape of a generally rectangular shape having a length and a width, in the first position and in the second position, the length direction can be differently oriented with respect to the movement direction. In an exemplary embodiment, in the first position, the length direction can be oriented generally perpendicular to the conveying direction, in the second position, the length direction can be oriented generally parallel to the conveying direction.

[0167] In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises a rotation. In a possible embodiment, one of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises only a translation, and the other one of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises a rotation of approximately 90°. In another possible embodiment, each of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises a translation and a rotation, wherein preferably the combination of the first trajectory and the second trajectory comprises a rotation of approximately 90°.

[0168] According to an exemplary embodiment, the control device is configured to control the movement device in a further operating mode such that the following sequence of steps is performed:

[0169] - coupling the board engagement device to the board;

[0170] - moving the board according to a trajectory, the trajectory comprising a rotation and / or a translation of the board, preferably comprising a rotation of 90° or a rotation of 180°;

[0171] - decoupling the board engagement device from the board.

[0172] In other words, the board can be moved in a continuous movement without changing the coupling position. Such an operating mode can be preferred in particular for smaller boards or for linear movements.

[0173] Preferably, the control device is configured to control the movement device depending on the size of the board. For example, the control device is configured to determine whether the board is larger than a predetermined size, and is configured to perform the sequence of steps of the first operating mode described above if it is determined that the board is larger than the predetermined size, and to perform the sequence of steps of the further operating mode described above if it is determined that the board is not larger than the predetermined size.

[0174] In an exemplary embodiment, the movement device comprises an articulated operating arm, as more particularly defined in some embodiments described below.

[0175] Preferably, the control device is configured to control the moving device such that a rotation of substantially 90° is performed while pushing or pulling the plate towards the processing station. In this way, the orientation of the plate can be changed from a position in which the shortest direction of the plate is oriented towards the machine transport direction to a position in which the longest direction of the plate is oriented towards the machine transport direction, or vice versa. This can be very useful, in particular for large plates, when for example transported from the exposure station to the cleaning station.

[0176] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support comprises a passive ball transfer conveyor comprising a plurality of rotatably mounted balls protruding from the support surface. The plurality of balls can be arranged along a regular grid, for example at equal distances from each other as seen in the machine transport direction. Preferably, the distance between adjacent balls of the plurality of balls is between 5 cm and 50 cm. Preferably, the diameter of the plurality of balls is between 5 mm and 50 mm. Preferably, the plurality of balls protrude from the support surface with a height of less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, for example between 0.5 mm and 4 mm. Preferably, the support surface between the plurality of balls is a flat surface. Preferably, the plate engagement device is pressed against the plate or placed on the plate by gravity. Due to the presence of the balls, the plate engagement device can slightly move up and down during movement of the plate. This will not hinder the movement due to the compressible contact layer of the plate and / or the plate engagement device.

[0177] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support comprises a first support part, for example a table, for example a glass table of an exposure station, and a second support part, for example a ball transfer conveyor, having a gap between the first support part and the second support part when seen in the downstream direction. Then the control device can be configured to control the moving device such that the plate is moved from the first support part in the downstream direction to the second support part. Optionally, the system further comprises a blowing device configured to blow air through the gap between the first support part and the second support part and / or the conveyor part, for example a set of rollers or balls. Such intermediate blowing device or other device will facilitate the transfer from the first support part to the second support part.

[0178] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support comprises at least a first table portion and a second table portion, wherein the processing station is a second processing station, and the first processing station is located at the edge of the first table portion, wherein the second table portion is located downstream of the first table portion when viewed in the machine transport direction towards the second processing station, wherein the first table portion is movable, preferably hinged, so that it can be moved away or folded up to allow an operator to access the first processing station. Optionally, the support further comprises a third table portion located downstream of the second table portion, wherein the second processing station is located at the edge of the third table portion. The third table portion is movable, preferably hinged, so that it can be moved away or folded up to allow an operator to access the second processing station.

[0179] In an exemplary embodiment, the support comprises a table provided with a plurality of holes, and the system further comprises blowing means configured to blow air through the holes in the direction of the plate supported on the table, in order to reduce the friction between the plate and the table. In this way, the force required to make the plate slide on the support surface can be reduced. Preferably, the blowing can be carried out over the entire contact surface between the support surface and the plate.

[0180] Preferably, the plate engagement means are arranged rotatable around a third rotation axis perpendicular to the support surface. The control means then comprise drive means configured to rotate the plate engagement means around the third rotation axis. This allows to couple the plate engagement means to the plate in any desired orientation, which can improve the force exerted on the plate when it slides on the support surface. For example, when the plate engagement means are rectangular, this allows to position the length direction perpendicular to the machine transport direction.

[0181] In an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises a detection assembly configured to detect a measurement representative of the position of the plate, wherein the control means are configured to control the movement means as a function of the measurement detected by the detection assembly. The detection assembly can be configured to detect whether the plate is accurately aligned at the entrance of the processing station. For example, the embodiments of the apparatus with movable elements described below can be used for this purpose.

[0182] Preferably, the movement means and the control means are configured to move a plate having a weight of between 6 kg and 30 kg, i.e. a relatively heavy plate, which is placed on the support surface during the movement.

[0183] According to another aspect, there is provided a method for moving a flexible plate, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, in the direction of a processing station, such as a washing station, on a support surface, the method comprising the steps of:

[0184] - supporting the plate on a support surface located upstream of the processing station;

[0185] - coupling the plate to the plate engagement device such that the plate engagement device is in a coupled state and sliding the plate over the support surface;

[0186] - decoupling the plate engagement device from the plate while pushing the plate such that the plate engagement device is in a decoupled state.

[0187] Preferably, the plate engagement device comprises one or more contact bodies configured to be in contact with the plate in the coupled state and to have a distance from the plate in the decoupled state, and one or more pusher elements; wherein decoupling is accomplished by pushing the plate with the one or more pusher elements and simultaneously moving the one or more contact bodies away from the plate. Preferred embodiments of the plate engagement device have been disclosed above.

[0188] Preferably, the plate engagement device is coupled to the plate by frictional and / or adhesive and / or suction forces, as will be further explained in another aspect below.

[0189] Further embodiments are defined in the following clauses:

[0190] 1. A system for moving a flexible plate (P), in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, in the direction of a treatment station (S2), such as a washing station, over a support surface, the system comprising:

[0191] - a support body (100) configured to support the plate on its support surface and intended to be located upstream of the treatment station;

[0192] - a moving device (200) for moving the plate, the moving device comprising a plate engagement device (250) configured to engage with the plate while the plate is moved over the support surface;

[0193] - wherein the plate engagement device comprises one or more contact bodies (251, 252) configured to be in a coupled state in contact with the plate when the plate is moved or in a decoupled state having a distance from the plate, and one or more pusher elements (240) configured to push the plate when the one or more contact bodies change from the coupled state to the decoupled state;

[0194] - wherein the plate engagement device is configured to switch between the coupled state and the decoupled state by moving the one or more contact bodies relative to the one or more pusher elements.

[0195] 2. The system according to clause 1, wherein the one or more contact bodies are provided with one or more apertures (245) and wherein the one or more pusher elements (240) extend through the one or more apertures.

[0196] 3. The system according to clause 1 or 2, wherein the plate engagement device comprises a holder (253) from which the one or more pusher elements are fixed and extend towards the support body, and one or more drivers (440) configured to move the one or more contact bodies relative to the holder.

[0197] 4. The system according to clause 3, wherein the one or more contact bodies comprise a first and a second contact body (251, 252) located on either side of the center of the holder (253).

[0198] 5. The system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the one or more contact bodies are one or more plate-like elements.

[0199] 6. The system according to clause 5, wherein each plate-like element is provided with a plurality of holes (245), preferably at least four holes, for a corresponding plurality of pusher elements.

[0200] 7. The system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the plate engagement device is configured to engage with the plate in the coupled state by adhesive or frictional forces or a combination thereof.

[0201] 8. The system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the movement device is configured to move the plate engagement device vertically, and to translate and / or rotate the plate engagement device.

[0202] 9. The system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein one or each contact body comprises a resilient compression layer, such as a rubber-like layer, for contact with the plate in the coupled state.

[0203] 10. The system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein one or each contact body comprises an adhesive surface, such as a surface comprising a pressure sensitive adhesive material, for contact with the plate in the coupled state.

[0204] 11. The system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein one or each contact body has a flat, smooth contact surface.

[0205] 12. The system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the movement device is configured to press the plate against the support body in the coupled state, wherein more preferably at least a part of the plate engagement device and / or the plate is compressed in the coupled state.

[0206] 13. The system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the one or more contact bodies are configured to be arranged at a distance of more than 100 cm from the support body in the coupled state.2 preferably more than 200 cm 2 more preferably more than 300 cm 2 of total surface area in contact with the board, preferably the total surface area is formed by one or more substantially rectangular surface areas.

[0207] 14. The system according to any preceding clause, further comprising a control device configured to control the moving device such that the board is moved on the support towards the direction of the processing station, and configured to control the board engaging device such that the one or more pusher elements push the board while the one or more contact bodies are controlled to move away from the board to the disengaged state.

[0208] 15. The system according to the preceding clause, wherein the control device is configured to control the moving device such that the following sequence of steps is performed:

[0209] coupling the board engaging device to the board at a first position (CL1) of the board;

[0210] moving the board according to a first trajectory (T1);

[0211] disengaging the board engaging device from the board;

[0212] coupling the board engaging device to the board at a second position (CL2) of the board different from the first position;

[0213] moving the board according to a second trajectory (T2).

[0214] 16. The system according to the preceding clause, wherein the movement of the board according to the first trajectory (T1) is a substantially linear movement.

[0215] 17. The system according to any of clauses 15-16, wherein the movement of the board according to the second trajectory (T2) comprises a rotation of the board of substantially 90 degrees.

[0216] 18. The system according to any of clauses 15-17, wherein the first position (LC1) is a position close to a leading edge (LE) of the board, preferably substantially in the middle of the leading edge of the board.

[0217] 19. The system according to any of clauses 15-18, wherein the second position (LC2) is located on one side of a centre line (L1) of the board, preferably in the front quarter (Q) closest to a second axis of rotation (A2); or wherein the second position (LC2) is located close to the centre of the board.

[0218] 20. The system according to any one of clauses 14-19, wherein the control device is configured to control the movement device such that the following sequence of steps is performed:

[0219] coupling the plate engagement device to the plate;

[0220] moving the plate according to a trajectory, the trajectory comprising rotation and translation of the plate, preferably comprising a rotation of 90° or a rotation of 180°;

[0221] separating the plate engagement device from the plate.

[0222] 21. The system according to any one of clauses 14-20, wherein the control device is configured to control the movement device in dependence of the size of the plate.

[0223] 22. The system according to the preceding clause, wherein the control device is configured to determine whether the plate is larger than a predetermined size, and configured to perform the sequence of steps according to any one of clauses 15-19 if it is determined that the plate is larger than the predetermined size, and to perform the sequence of steps according to clause 20 if it is determined that the plate is not larger than the predetermined size.

[0224] 23. The system according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the support comprises a passive ball transfer conveyor comprising a plurality of rotatably mounted balls protruding from the support surface.

[0225] 24. The system according to the preceding clause, wherein the distance between adjacent balls of the plurality of balls is between 5 cm and 50 cm, and / or wherein the diameter of the plurality of balls is between 5 mm and 50 mm, and / or wherein the height by which the plurality of balls protrude from the support surface is less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, for example between 0.5 mm and 4 mm.

[0226] 25. The system according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the support comprises a first support portion, for example a table, and a second support portion, for example a ball transfer conveyor, having a gap between the first and second support portions, when viewed in a downstream direction, wherein the control device is configured to control the movement device such that a plate is moved from the first support portion to the second support portion in a downstream direction, and wherein the system further comprises a blowing device configured to blow air through the gap and / or conveyor portion, for example a set of rollers or balls, between the first support portion and the second support portion.

[0227] 26. The system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the control device is configured to control the movement device such that a rotation of substantially 90° is performed while pushing or pulling the board towards the treatment station.

[0228] 27. The system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the support comprises at least a first table portion and a second table portion (110, 120), wherein the treatment station is a second treatment station, and wherein a first treatment station is located at an edge of the first table portion, wherein the second table portion is located downstream of the first table portion when viewed in a machine conveying direction towards the second treatment station, wherein the first table portion is movable, preferably hinged, such that it can be moved away or folded up to allow an operator to access the first treatment station.

[0229] 28. The system according to the preceding clause, wherein the support further comprises a third table portion (130) located downstream of the second table portion, wherein the second treatment station is located at an edge of the third table portion, wherein the third table portion is movable, preferably hinged, such that it can be moved away or folded up to allow an operator to access the second treatment station.

[0230] 29. The system according to the preceding clause, wherein the movement device comprises a hinged operating arm (200) extending substantially parallel to the support surface and comprising at least a first section (210) and a second section (220); the first section (210) having a first end (211) rotatably connected to the second section about a first rotation axis (Al) substantially perpendicular to the support surface, and a second end (212) provided with a board engagement device (250) configured to come into contact with the board in such a way that movement of the operating arm causes sliding of the board on the support surface; the second section (220) being rotatable about a second rotation axis (A2) substantially perpendicular to the support surface.

[0231] 30. The system according to the preceding clause, wherein the control device comprises a first drive device (410) for controlling rotation of the first section relative to the second section and a second drive device (420) for controlling rotation of the second section about the second rotation axis (A2).

[0232] 31. The system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the board engagement device is arranged to be rotatable about a third rotation axis (A3) perpendicular to the support surface.

[0233] 32. The system according to the preceding clause, further comprising a drive device (430) configured to rotate the plate engagement device (250) around the third axis of rotation (A3).

[0234] 33. The system according to clause 14 and any preceding clause, further comprising a detection assembly configured to detect a measurement representative of a position of the plate, wherein the control device is configured to control the plate engagement device and / or the movement device in dependence on the measurement detected by the detection assembly.

[0235] 34. The system according to the preceding clause, wherein the detection assembly is configured to detect whether the plate is accurately aligned at an entrance of the processing station.

[0236] 35. The system according to any preceding clause, wherein the movement device and the control device are configured to move a plate having a weight of between 5 kg and 30 kg.

[0237] 36. The system according to any preceding clause, wherein the support comprises a table provided with a plurality of holes, and further comprising a blowing device configured to blow air through the holes towards a plate supported on the table, in order to reduce a friction force between the plate and the table.

[0238] 37. A method for moving a flexible plate (P), in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, towards a processing station (S2), such as a washing station, on a support surface, the method comprising the steps of:

[0239] supporting the plate on a support surface located upstream of the processing station;

[0240] coupling the plate to a plate engagement device so that it is in a coupled state, and moving the plate on the support surface;

[0241] disengaging the plate engagement device from the plate while pushing the plate.

[0242] 38. The method according to the preceding clause, wherein the plate engagement device comprises one or more contact bodies (251, 252) configured to be in contact with the plate when in the coupled state and to be at a distance from the plate when in the disengaged state, and one or more pusher elements (240); wherein the disengaging is done by pushing the plate with the one or more pusher elements while moving the one or more contact bodies away from the plate.

[0243] 39. The method according to clause 37 or 38, wherein the plate engagement device is coupled to the plate by friction and / or adhesive and / or suction forces.

[0244] 40. The method according to any one of clauses 37-39, comprising controlling the coupling and decoupling steps such that the following sequence of steps is performed:

[0245] coupling the plate engagement device to the plate at a first position (CL1) of the plate;

[0246] moving the plate according to a first trajectory (T1);

[0247] decoupling the plate engagement device from the plate;

[0248] coupling the plate engagement device to the plate at a second position (CL2) of the plate different from the first position;

[0249] moving the plate according to a second trajectory (T2).

[0250] 41. The method according to the preceding clause, wherein the movement of the plate according to the first trajectory (T1) is a substantially linear movement.

[0251] 42. The method according to any one of clauses 40-41, wherein the movement of the plate according to the second trajectory (T2) comprises a rotation of the plate by substantially 90°.

[0252] 43. The method according to any one of clauses 40-42, wherein the first position (LC1) is a position in the vicinity of a leading edge (LE) of the plate, preferably substantially in the middle of the leading edge of the plate.

[0253] 44. The method according to any one of clauses 40-43, wherein the second position (LC2) is located on one side of a centre line (L1) of the plate, preferably in the front quarter (Q) closest to the second axis of rotation (A2); or wherein the second position (LC2) is located close to the centre of the plate.

[0254] 45. The system according to any one of clauses 37-39, comprising controlling the coupling and decoupling steps such that the following sequence of steps is performed:

[0255] coupling the plate engagement device to the plate;

[0256] moving the plate according to a trajectory comprising a rotation and a translation of the plate, preferably comprising a rotation by 90° or 180°;

[0257] decoupling the plate engagement device from the plate.

[0258] 46. The method according to the preceding clause, wherein it is determined whether the board is larger than a predetermined size, and wherein if it is determined that the board is larger than the predetermined size, the sequence of steps according to any one of clauses 40-44 is performed, and if it is determined that the board is not larger than the predetermined size, the sequence of steps according to clause 45 is performed.

[0259] 47. The method according to any one of clauses 40-46, further comprising the step of detecting a measure representative of the position of the board, wherein the step of controlling comprises controlling the rotation of the board in dependence on the detected measure, wherein preferably the detecting comprises detecting whether the board is accurately aligned at the entrance of the treatment station. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0260] The presently preferred non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, system and method of the present application are set forth in the accompanying drawings and described below. The above advantages of the features of the present application and other advantages of the present application will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which:

[0261] Figure 1 schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system for moving a printing plate;

[0262] Figure 2 schematic perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a system for moving a printing plate, wherein the operating arm is in a position for rotating the board;

[0263] Fig. 3 is a schematic front top view of an exemplary embodiment of Figure 2 showing the trajectory followed by a large printing plate;

[0264] Figure 3B schematic front top view of another exemplary embodiment showing the trajectory followed by a large printing plate;

[0265] Figure 4 schematic perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of Figure 2 , wherein the operating arm is in a position for coupling with a small plate.

[0266] Figure 5A schematic front top view of an exemplary embodiment of Figure 4 showing the trajectory followed by a small printing plate;

[0267] Figure 5B schematic front top view of another exemplary embodiment showing the trajectory followed by a small printing plate;

[0268] Figure 6A and Figure 6Bperspective view of the plate engagement device in the upper position and in the lower position, respectively;

[0269] Figure 6C perspective view of another embodiment of the plate engagement device in the upper position;

[0270] Figure 7A and Figure 7B top view and a sectional view of a part of the worktable, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of the worktable;

[0271] Figures 8A-8B perspective view showing the movement of the plate by the device for aligning the leading edge of the plate of the exemplary embodiment;

[0272] Figure 9 schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the device for aligning the leading edge of the plate;

[0273] Figure 10 schematic top view of another embodiment of the device for aligning and / or centering the plate;

[0274] Figure 11 schematic side view of another exemplary embodiment of the device for aligning the leading edge of the plate;

[0275] Figure 12A and Figure 12B schematic perspective views of an exemplary embodiment with a pusher element, respectively, in a coupled state and in a decoupled state; and

[0276] Figure 13A , Figure 13B and Figure 13C schematic front views of an exemplary embodiment of Figure 12A and Figure 12B in a coupled state, in an intermediate state and in a decoupled state, respectively. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0277] Figure 1A system is shown for moving a flexible plate P, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, on a support surface 106 from a first processing station S1 (schematically shown as a rectangle) towards a second processing station S2 (schematically shown as a rectangle), such as a washing station. The system comprises a support body 100, an articulated handling arm 200 and control means 410, 420, 430. The support body 100, typically a worktable, is configured to support the plate P on a support surface 106 of the worktable 100. The worktable 100 is located upstream of the second processing station S2. The articulated handling arm 200 extends substantially parallel to the support surface 106 and comprises at least a first section 210 and a second section 220. The first section 210 has a first end 211 rotatably connected to the second section 220 about a first rotation axis Al substantially perpendicular to the support surface 106 and a second end 212 provided with a plate engagement device 250 configured to come into contact with the plate P in such a way that movement of the handling arm 200 causes a sliding of the plate P on the support surface 106. The second section 220 is rotatable about a second rotation axis A2 substantially perpendicular to the support surface 106. The control means 410, 420, 430 are configured to control the plate engagement device and the rotation of the first section 210 and the second section 220 of the articulated handling arm 200 so as to cause the plate to slide on the support surface 106 in the direction of the second processing station S2. With the arm 200, the plate P can be slid, i.e. moved, pushed or pulled, on the support surface 106 while the plate P can be rotated about the first rotation axis Al and the second rotation axis A2, thereby creating any desired way of movement of the plate. Preferably, the weight of the plate engagement device 250 is placed on the support surface 106 during the sliding of the plate on the support surface 106, thereby exerting a downward force on the plate P.

[0278] Preferably, the plate engagement device 250 is configured to couple the first section with the plate by suction, adhesion or friction forces or a combination thereof. Preferably, the plate engagement device is placed on the plate under the action of gravity.

[0279] In the illustrated embodiment, the support comprises a first table portion 110, a second table portion 120 and a third table portion 130. A first processing station S1 is located at the edge of the first table portion 110. The second table portion 120 is located downstream of said first table portion 110 when viewed in the machine transport direction towards the second processing station S2. The first table portion 110 is hinged about a pivot axis AT1 so as to be foldable away to allow an operator to access the first processing station S1. The third table portion 130 is located downstream of the second table portion 120 and a second processing station S2 is located at the edge of the third table portion 130. The third table portion 130 is hinged about a pivot axis AT3 so as to be foldable away to allow an operator to access the second processing station S2.

[0280] The control device comprises a first drive device 410 for controlling the rotation of the first section 210 relative to the second section 220, and a second drive device 420 for controlling the rotation of the second section 220 about the second rotation axis A2. The plate engagement device 250 is arranged rotatable about a third rotation axis A3 perpendicular to the support surface 106. The control device comprises a drive device 430 configured to rotate the plate engagement device 250 about the third rotation axis A3. This will allow the plate engagement device 250 to be coupled with the plate P in any desired direction, which can improve the forces exerted on the plate as it slides on the support surface 106.

[0281] The plate engagement device 250 or the entire handling arm 200 can be movable in a direction perpendicular to the support surface 106 between a contact position in which the plate engagement device 250 is in contact with the plate, and a non-contact position in which the plate engagement device 250 is located at a distance above the plate. The control device can thus comprise a drive device (not shown) configured to move at least the plate engagement device 250 and optionally the entire handling arm 200 between the contact position and the non-contact position.

[0282] Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment is shown which is similar to the embodiment of Figure 1 The same or similar components have been denoted with the same reference numerals. Figure 2 It is shown that the control device can be configured to control the articulated arm 200 so that the plate P performs a rotation of substantially 90° while being pulled or pushed from the first processing station S1 towards the second processing station S2. In Figure 2 In the embodiment of

[0283] Figure 3A Show Figure 2 An example of a first operating mode of the implementation, wherein the following steps are performed:

[0284] -At the first position LC1 on the plate (see...) Figure 3A Position of the left side plate 1) Connect the plate joining device 250 to plate P;

[0285] -Move plate P according to the first trajectory T1, which is a roughly linear movement here;

[0286] - This separates the plate joining device 250 from the plate, which is done at the second position 2 of the plate;

[0287] -When the plate is still in the second position 2, the plate joining device 250 is connected to the plate P in the second position LC2 of the plate, which is different from the first position;

[0288] - The plate is moved according to a second trajectory T2, which includes approximately a 90-degree rotation of the plate. See [reference needed] Figure 3A Positions 3 and 4 are shown.

[0289] This operating mode can be used for large plates that need to be rotated.

[0290] Figure 2 and 3A The illustration is shown in the following text. Figure 6A and Figure 6B The described plate joining device 250 can be any suitable type of plate joining device. For example, such as... Figure 3B As schematically shown, the plate joint can have a generally rectangular contact surface and can include a single contact head. An example of such a plate joint device 250 is referred to below. Figure 6C Let's discuss this. For example, in... Figure 3B As can be seen, the same sequence of steps can be performed using such a plate joining device 250.

[0291] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3B In this configuration, the first position LC1 is located near the leading edge LE of plate P, preferably approximately at the middle of the leading edge LE. At the first position LC1, the rectangular contact head 250 is preferably oriented so that its length direction is approximately perpendicular to the direction of movement, i.e., perpendicular to the trajectory T1. The plate is pulled on the support by the operating arm according to the first trajectory (which may be a linear trajectory). Figure 3A In the middle, the second position LC2 is located on one side of the center lines L1 and L2 of the plate, preferably at the first quarter Q closest to the second rotation axis A2. Figure 2). By choosing such a position, the forces can be well distributed. Such an embodiment can be advantageous when the friction is rather large, for example when a perforated worktable is used. In Figure 3B the second position LC2 is located near the center of gravity of the plate P and the rectangular contact head 250 can be oriented with its length direction substantially parallel to the movement direction, i.e. parallel to the trajectory T2. Such an embodiment can be advantageous when the plate is a ball bead conveyor. The plate is pushed by the operating arm on the support according to a second trajectory which can comprise a rotation of 90° as shown.

[0292] Figure 4 embodiments of the operating arm 200 in different positions are shown. Figure 2 Figure 4 The display control device can be configured to control the articulated operating arm 200 such that for small plates P only one of the suction devices of the plate engagement device 250 can be used (see also the description of Figure 6A and Figure 6B below).

[0293] Figure 5A Examples of a second operating mode of the embodiments of the Figure 2 and Figure 4 are shown, wherein the following sequence of steps is performed:

[0294] - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate, see plate position 1’ in Figure 5A - moving the plate according to a trajectory comprising a rotation and a translation of the plate, see plate positions 2’ and 3’ in Fig. 5;

[0295] - decoupling the plate engagement device from the plate, see plate position 4’ in

[0296] Figure 5A

[0297] In other words, here the plate P follows a continuous movement without changing the coupling position. Such an operating mode can be preferred in particular for smaller plates.

[0298] Figure 4 and Figure 5A The plate engagement device 250 is shown schematically below in connection with Figure 6A and Figure 6B but can be any type of suitable plate engagement device. For example, as shown schematically in Figure 5B the plate engagement can have a substantially rectangular contact surface and can comprise a single contact head. Examples of such plate engagement devices 250 are discussed below with reference to Figure 6C As can be seen in Figure 5B such a plate engagement device 250 can be used for the plate handling system 100 shown in Figure 5A ​​​a similar sequence of steps is shown. In Fig. 5, the plate is rotated 90° during movement along the shown trajectory. In Figure 5B Fig. 6, the plate is rotated 180° during movement along the shown trajectory. Performing a rotation of 180° can reduce the size of the operating arm compared to a trajectory in which the plate is rotated 90°.

[0299] Preferably, the control device is configured to control the operating arm 200 in dependence of the size of the plate P. For example, the control device can be configured to determine whether the plate is larger than a predetermined size, and if it is determined that the plate is larger than the predetermined size, the sequence of steps of Fig. 3 or Figure 3B Fig. 4 is performed, and if it is determined that the plate is not larger than the predetermined size, the sequence of steps of Fig. 5 or Figure 5A Fig. 6 is performed. Figure 5B

[0300] Figure 6A and Figure 6B An exemplary embodiment of a suitable plate engagement device 250 is shown. The plate engagement device 250 comprises a holder 253, on which two suction cups 251 and 252 are arranged. In a preferred embodiment, each suction cup 251, 252 has a portion with a flat underside made of a porous material (porous metal, ceramic or plastic) for contacting the plate. However, as mentioned in the summary, other plate engagement devices 250 can be used as well. For example, instead of the suction cups 251 and 252, two contact heads can be used, each having a contact surface configured to be pushed against the plate. Then the control device can be configured to push one or more contact heads against the plate such that the friction and / or adhesion between the contact head and the plate allows the plate to be slid on the support surface 106 by the operating arm 200.

[0301] In Figure 6A and Figure 6B , the plate engagement device 250 is movable in a direction perpendicular to the support surface 106 between a contact position in which the plate engagement device 250 is in contact with the plate and a non-contact position in which the plate engagement device 250 is located at a distance above the plate. Then the control device can comprise a drive device 440 configured to move the plate engagement device 250 between the contact position and the non-contact position.

[0302] Figure 6C Another embodiment of a plate engagement device 250 is shown, which is configured to contact the plate in a way that it engages the plate by adhesion or by friction or a combination thereof. A movement device (e.g. comprising an operating arm as described above) is configured to move the plate engagement device 250 vertically and to translate and / or rotate the plate engagement device 250. It is noted that the movement device does not necessarily have to be an operating arm, but can also comprise a frame with a vertically movable carriage structure, which is movably suspended from the frame. In such an embodiment, the plate engagement device 250 can be fixed to the carriage structure.​

[0303] The plate engagement device 250 comprises a contact layer 255, for example an elastically compressible layer, for example a rubber-like layer, for contact with the plate in the moving mode. Additionally or alternatively, the layer 255 can also comprise a pressure sensitive adhesive material. Such a layer 255 can be fixed on a rigid base 256 connected to the driving device 440. Preferably, the layer 255 has a flat and smooth contact surface. Optionally, the layer 255 can comprise recesses or holes in the flat contact surface.

[0304] The moving device and the control device, for example as implemented as described above, are configured to press the layer 255 against the printing plate, preferably such that at least a portion of the layer 255 and / or the printing plate is compressed.

[0305] Preferably, the plate engagement device 250 is configured to contact the plate over a surface area, preferably a substantially rectangular surface area (but also other shapes, for example an ellipse or any polygon), which is larger than 100 cm 2 , preferably larger than 200 cm 2 , more preferably larger than 300 cm 2 . Thus, preferably, the layer 255 extends over a surface area of, for example, larger than 300 cm 2 . In alternative implementations, the plate engagement device 250 can comprise two or more contact heads, each having a base 256 and a corresponding contact layer 255. In such implementations, the sum of the surface areas of the plurality of contact layers 255 of the plurality of contact heads is preferably larger than, for example, 300 cm 2 .

[0306] In the implementations of Figure 1 Fig. 5, the support table 100 can be provided with a plurality of holes (not shown), and the system can further comprise a blowing device (not shown) configured to blow air through said holes in the direction of the plate P supported on the table 100, to reduce the friction between the plate P and the table 100. In this way, the force required to make the plate slide on the support surface 106 can be lower. Additionally or alternatively, as Figure 7A and Figure 7BAs shown, the worktable 100 can further comprise a passive ball conveyor comprising a plurality of rotatably mounted balls 105 protruding from a support surface 106. The plurality of balls 105 can be arranged along a regular grid, e.g. with equal distances between each other as seen in the machine conveying direction. Preferably, the distance between adjacent balls 105 of the plurality of balls is between 5 cm and 50 cm. Preferably, the diameter of the plurality of balls 105 is between 5 mm and 50 mm. Preferably, the plurality of balls 105 protrude from the support surface 106 with a height of less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, e.g. between 1 mm and 4 mm or between 0.5 mm and 4 mm. Preferably, the support surface 106 between the plurality of balls 105 is a flat surface.

[0307] Optionally, Figure 1 The system of Fig. 6 further comprises a detection assembly configured to detect a measurement value representative of the position of the plate, and the control device is configured to control the plate engagement device 250 and / or the rotation of the first section 210 and / or the second section 220 depending on the measurement value detected by the detection assembly. The detection assembly can be configured to detect whether the plate is accurately aligned at the entrance of the second processing station S2. Embodiments of possible detection assemblies will be described below.

[0308] Preferably, the articulated handling arm 200 and the control device 410, 420, 430, 440 are configured to move a plate having a weight of between 6 kg and 30 kg, i.e. a relatively heavy plate, which is placed on the support surface 106 during the movement.

[0309] Figures 8A to 8C And Figure 9 A first exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for aligning the edges of a plate P, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, is shown. Figures 8A to 8C Successive method steps are shown, and Figure 9 A perspective view of a partial cut is shown to better illustrate the movable elements 501, 502 of the apparatus. The apparatus comprises a support body 100 (here a worktable), two movable elements 501, 502, a detection device 601, 602, at least one controllable component 200 (e.g. Figure 1 to the handling arm 200 shown in Fig. 6) and a control device 700. The support body 100 is configured to support a plate in a support surface 106 and is intended to be located at a processing station (e.g. Figure 1 And Figure 2The second station S2) is schematically shown upstream. The two movable elements 501, 502 are arranged to be moved by the leading edge LE of the plate P. The two movable elements comprise a first movable element 501 and a second movable element 502. The detection means 601, 602 are configured to detect a first measurement value and a second measurement value representative of a first position and a second position of the first movable element and the second movable element, respectively. The at least one controllable component 200, e.g. a moving device, is configured to exert an action on the plate. The control device 700 is configured to control the at least one controllable component based on the first measurement value and the second measurement value. For example, the control device can control the movement of the plate P as a function of the first measurement value and the second measurement value measured by the detection means 601, 602. For example, the moving device 200 can be configured to rotate the plate around an axis perpendicular to the support surface 106 to improve the alignment, and once the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value is below a predetermined threshold, it can be determined that the plate is aligned.

[0310] The moving device 200 can be configured to rotate the plate around an axis perpendicular to the support surface 106 and to translate the plate parallel to the support surface 106. The control device can then be configured to first translate and / or rotate the plate until the edge is in contact with the at least two movable elements, and then can further rotate the plate until the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value is below a predetermined threshold, and then can further translate the plate above or below the at least two movable elements.

[0311] The movable elements 501, 502 can be arranged so that in a starting position Ps they protrude through the support surface 106. This embodiment has the advantage that the movable elements do not obstruct other components, and that the detection can be performed below the support surface 106.

[0312] In the embodiment of Figures 8A to 8C and Figure 9 , the movable elements 501, 502 are two pivotable pins arranged to be pivoted by the edge of the plate. The pivotable elements are easy to install in the support so that they protrude through the support surface 106, or above the support, and the angle at which the pivotable elements pivot is a direct and accurate measure of the position of the point of contact with the edge. The detection means 601, 602 are configured to detect a first measurement value and a second measurement value representative of a first angle and a second angle of the first pivotable pin 501 and the second pivotable pin 502. The pivotable pins 501, 502 are partly below the support surface 106 and partly above the support surface 106 in a starting position Ps, and the detection means 601, 602, e.g. angle detection means, are arranged below the support surface 106, where they are not affected by measurement disturbing factors.

[0313] At the start position Ps, before the edge of the plate hits it, the at least two pins 501, 502 are oriented in the upstream direction Du, see Figure 8A and Figure 9 , preferably at an angle of between 15 and 75 degrees with respect to the support surface 106. In this way, for example, the pins can be moved from the start position Ps, where the pins point in the upstream direction Du, to a position perpendicular to the support surface 106, and further to the end position Pe, where the pins point in the downstream direction Dd, and the plate can be moved over the pins, see Figure 8C and Figure 9 .

[0314] A biasing device, here a weight 505 attached to each pivotable pin 501, 502, is configured to exert a force on the edge of the plate in the upstream direction Du. Optionally, another biasing device, here a piston 520, is provided to force the pivotable pins 501, 502 in the end position Pe, for example when the pins are not in use. Preferably, the end position Pe is a position below the support surface 106, to avoid damage.

[0315] The pivotable pins 501, 502 are pivotably arranged around a pivot axis A, and the pivot axis is located at a distance of more than 5 cm below or above the support surface 106, preferably at a distance d of more than 10 cm below or above the support surface 106. In this way, the plate P can be moved over the support surface 106 for a relatively long distance while remaining in contact with the pivotable pins 501, 502. This will further improve the accuracy of the alignment of the plate.

[0316] The support body 100 is a support table provided with two slots 101, 102 through which the two pivotable pins 501, 502 protrude. The slots 501, 502 are elongated slots, which are dimensioned such that the pivotable pins can be moved from the start position Ps, where the pins point in the upstream direction Du, to a position where the pins point in the downstream direction Dd, and optionally to the end position Pe, where the pins are located below the support surface 106 or are flush with the support surface 106.

[0317] Each pivotable pin comprises a first elongated portion 510 and a second elongated portion 511, wherein the second elongated portion 511 is oriented at an angle of between 120 and 175 degrees with respect to the first elongated portion 510. At the start position Ps, the second elongated portion 511 extends at least partially above the support surface 106, while the first elongated portion 510 extends below the support surface 106. This allows to reduce the length of the slots, while still allowing the pins 501, 502 to be invisible in the support body 100.

[0318] Optionally, as Figure 9As shown, the support body 100 can be configured such that the support surface 106 is an inclined surface, for example when the processing station downstream of the movable elements 501, 502 is a washing station.

[0319] Optionally, the at least one controllable component comprises any one or more of: a moving device, a punching device, a plate coupling device, a plate clamping device. The moving device 200 can be an operating arm as previously described, but can also comprise any one or more of: at least one robotic arm, a set of rollers, a set of chains, a set of belts.

[0320] Preferably, the control device 700 is configured to compare the first measurement value and the second measurement value, and to determine the edge alignment or the plate centering of the plate if the difference between the first measurement value and the second measurement value is smaller than a predetermined threshold value.

[0321] Preferably, the distance between the first movable element 501 and the second movable element 502 is in the range of 10 cm to 1000 cm, preferably in the range of 10 cm to 500 cm, more preferably in the range of 10 cm to 100 cm.

[0322] Figure 10 A top view of an exemplary embodiment is shown, in which two movable elements 501, 502 are used to align the leading edge of a plate moving in the machine conveying direction, and one or two other movable elements 503, 504 are used to center the plate in a direction perpendicular to the machine conveying direction. It is worth noting that only one of the movable elements 503, 504 can be used. Here the movable elements 501, 502 are pivotable pins that pivot in a plane parallel to the machine conveying direction and perpendicular to the support surface 106, while the other one or more pins 503, 504 used to center the plate can pivot in a plane perpendicular to the machine conveying direction and perpendicular to the support surface 106. More generally, the pivotable pins 501 can be oriented in any suitable direction depending on the detection that is desired to be performed.

[0323] Figure 11Another exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for detecting or positioning a plate P, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, is shown. The apparatus comprises a support 100, here a table, a pivotable pin 501, a detection device 601, e.g. an angle detector, a controllable component 200 and a control device 700. The support 100 is configured to support a plate on a support surface 106. The pivotable pin 501 is arranged to be moved by an edge of the plate P. The detection device 601 is configured to detect a measurement value representative of a position of the pivotable pin 501. The controllable component 200, e.g. a moving device, is configured to exert an action on the plate. The control device 700 is configured to control the controllable component based on the measurement value. For example, the moving device 200 can be configured to translate the plate in the support surface and / or to rotate the plate around an axis perpendicular to the support surface 106, depending on the measurement value. In this example, the pin 501 is arranged such that its pivot axis is located above the support surface, and the detection is also performed above the support surface. However, it is also possible to provide the detection device 601 below the surface. As in the embodiment of Figures 8A to 8C When the edge of the plate P hits the pin 501, it will move from a start position Ps to an end position Pe. Here the end position Pe is a position above the support 100, which is high enough for the plate P to pass from below. Optionally, a biasing device (not shown) can be provided to bias the pin 501 in the start position Ps or in the end position Pe.

[0324] Examples of suitable detection devices 601, 602 include angle sensors, proximity switches, light sensors, mechanical switches, magnetic switches, video cameras, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the detection device comprises a first detector 601 and a second detector 602 for detecting the first movable element and the second movable element, respectively. However, certain detection devices, e.g. video cameras, can also inspect the first movable element and the second movable element simultaneously.

[0325] Figures 12A to 12B and Figures 13A to 13CAnother exemplary embodiment of a system for moving a flexible plate, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, in a direction towards a processing station, e.g. a washing station, on a support surface is shown. The system comprises a support body 100 and a moving device 200. The support body 100 is configured to support a plate P on its support surface and is intended to be located upstream of the processing station. The moving device 200 is configured to move the plate and can comprise a segmented arm, as already described above. The moving device 200 comprises a plate engagement device 250 configured to engage with the plate P while moving the plate P on the support surface. The plate engagement device 250 comprises two contact bodies 251, 252 configured to be in a coupled state in contact with the plate when moving the plate or in a decoupled state at a distance from the plate. The plate engagement device 250 further comprises a plurality of pusher elements 240 (see in particular Figures 13A to 13C ) configured to push the plate P when the contact bodies 251, 252 change from the coupled state to the decoupled state. The plate engagement device 250 is configured to switch between the coupled state and the decoupled state by moving the contact bodies 251, 252 relative to the pusher elements 240.

[0326] The contact bodies 251, 252 are formed as plate-like elements, each provided with a plurality of holes 245, preferably at least four holes, for a corresponding plurality of pusher elements 240, and the pusher elements 240 extend through the holes 245. The plate-like contact bodies can comprise a rigid base, such as a metal plate, on which a rubber-like layer as described above is provided. However, it is also possible to use one or more pusher elements in combination with one or more suction heads 251, 252 as disclosed above with respect to Figure 6A and Figure 6B In such an embodiment, the pusher elements can for example extend through holes in the suction heads or along the periphery of the suction heads. Furthermore, in such an embodiment, the plate can be prone to stick to the suction heads, for example when the surface of the plate is sticky due to the processing it is subjected to, and the use of one or more pusher elements can avoid such a problem.

[0327] The plate engagement device 250 comprises a holder 253 on which the one or more pusher elements 240 are fixed and from which the one or more pusher elements 240 protrude in a direction towards the support body 100. The plate engagement device 250 further comprises two drives 440 configured to move the two contact bodies 251, 252 relative to the holder 253. The contact bodies 251, 252 are located on both sides of the center of the holder 253 and each contact body 251, 252 is associated with a respective drive 440.

[0328] In the illustrated embodiment, the one or more pusher elements 240 are formed as one or more pin-like elements. For example, the pusher elements 240 can be bolts, one end of which is fixed in the bracket 253 and the other end of which is provided with a head for pushing the plate when the one or more contact bodies 251, 252 are moved away from the plate, see Figure 13B .

[0329] For example, the drivers 440 can be pistons, e.g. air pistons, e.g. mounted on the bracket 253, one end of each movable piston extending through a hole in the bracket 253 and being attached to a respective contact body 251, 252. The contact bodies 251, 252 can be mounted such that they can be pivoted about an axis parallel to the support surface. This can better engage with the plate P. For example, the pistons can be pivotably connected to the bracket 253.

[0330] Preferably, the contact bodies 251, 252 are configured to engage with the plate P in the coupled state by adhesive forces or frictional forces or a combination thereof, as explained for the other embodiments described above. The moving device 200 can be configured to move the plate engagement device 250 vertically and to translate and / or rotate the plate engagement device 250, e.g. as explained with respect to the other embodiments described above.

[0331] The apparatus in Figs. 8 to Figure 11 or Figures 12A to 12B and Figures 13A to 13C may be used in a system further comprising a processing station downstream of the support and configured to receive the aligned plate. The processing in the processing station can be selected from the group consisting of cleaning, brushing, rinsing, spraying, drying, irradiation, development, heating, cooling, removing material, treating with a gas or liquid, sanding, cutting, treating with electromagnetic waves, ablation, measuring, and combinations thereof.

[0332] The convex plate precursor generally comprises a support layer made of a first material and an additional layer made of a second material different from the first material. The support layer can be a flexible metal, a natural or synthetic polymer, paper, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the support layer is a flexible metal or polymer film or sheet. If it is a flexible metal, the support layer can be a thin film, a sieve structure, a mesh structure, a woven or non-woven structure, or a combination thereof. Steel, copper, nickel, or aluminum plates are preferred and can be from about 50 μm to 1000 μm thick. If it is a polymer film, the film is dimensionally stable but flexible and can be made of, for example, polyolefins, polyesters, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polyamides, and polycarbonates, polymers reinforced with woven, non-woven, or layered fibers (e.g., glass fiber, carbon fiber, polymer fiber), or combinations thereof. Preferably, polyethylene and polyester foil are used, with a thickness ranging from 100 μm to 300 μm, preferably from 100 μm to 200 μm. The convex plate precursor may have an additional layer. For example, the additional layer can be any of the following: a directly sculptable layer (e.g., laser-engraved), a solvent- or water-developable layer, a thermally developable layer, a photosensitive layer, or a combination of a photosensitive layer and a mask layer. Optionally, one or more additional additional layers can be disposed on top of the additional layer. Such one or more additional additional layers may include a masking layer located on top of all other layers, which may be removed before imaging of the imageable layer. One or more additional layers may include an embossing layer, and an anti-halation layer located between the support layer and the embossing layer, or on the side of the support layer opposite to the embossing layer. One or more additional layers may include an embossing layer, an imageable layer, and one or more barrier layers located between the embossing layer and the imageable layer, the barrier layers preventing oxygen diffusion.

[0333] One or more adhesive layers may be located between the different layers mentioned above, which ensure proper adhesion between the different layers.

[0334] Although the principles of the invention have been described in conjunction with specific embodiments, it should be understood that these descriptions are by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection, which is determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system for moving a flexible sheet (P) on a support surface in the direction of a treatment station (S2), the system comprising: - a support body (100) configured to support a sheet on its support surface and located upstream of the treatment station; - a moving device (200) comprising sheet engagement means (250) configured to be in contact with the sheet in a moving mode by adhesion or friction or a combination thereof, while the sheet is pressed against the support surface, and in which, in the moving mode, the sheet slides on the support surface while the sheet is pressed against the support surface, by controlling the moving device (200); - control means configured to control the moving device so that the sheet slides on the support body in the direction of the treatment station.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein, The moving device is configured to move the sheet engagement means vertically, and to translate and / or rotate the sheet engagement means.

3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The sheet engagement means comprise a resilient compression layer for contacting the sheet in the moving mode.

4. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The sheet engagement means comprise a tacky surface for contacting the sheet in the moving mode.

5. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The sheet engagement means have a flat, smooth contact surface.

6. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The moving device is configured to press the sheet against the support body in the moving mode, in which at least a portion of the sheet engagement means and / or of the sheet is compressed.

7. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The plate engagement device is configured to contact the plate over a surface area of more than 100 cm 2 .

8. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control means are configured to control the moving device so that the following sequence of steps is performed: - coupling the sheet engagement means to the sheet at a first position (CL1) of the sheet; - moving the sheet according to a first trajectory (T1); - decoupling the sheet engagement means from the sheet; - coupling the sheet engagement means to the sheet at a second position (CL2) of the sheet different from the first position; - moving the sheet according to a second trajectory (T2).

9. The system of claim 8, wherein, The movement of the sheet according to the first trajectory (T1) is a linear movement.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein, The movement of the sheet according to the second trajectory (T2) comprises a 90° rotation of the sheet.

11. The system of claim 8, wherein, The first position (LC1) is a position near a leading edge (LE) of the sheet.

12. The system of claim 8, wherein, The second position (LC2) is located on one side of a center line (L1) of the sheet; or wherein the second position (LC2) is located near the center of the sheet.

13. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control means are configured to control the moving device so that the following sequence of steps is performed: - coupling the sheet engagement means to the sheet; - moving the sheet according to a trajectory comprising a rotation and / or a translation of the sheet; - decoupling the sheet engagement means from the sheet.

14. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control means are configured to control the moving device according to the dimensions of the sheet.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein, The control means are configured to determine whether the sheet is larger than a predetermined size, and are configured to perform the following sequence of steps if it is determined that the sheet is larger than the predetermined size: - coupling the sheet engagement means to the sheet at a first position (CL1) of the sheet; - moving the sheet according to a first trajectory (T1); - decoupling the plate engagement device from the plate; - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate at a second position (CL2) of the plate different from the first position; - moving the plate according to a second trajectory (T2); and if it is determined that the plate is not larger than the predetermined size, then performing the following sequence of steps: - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate; - moving the plate according to a trajectory, the trajectory comprising a rotation and / or a translation of the plate; - decoupling the plate engagement device from the plate.

16. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The support body comprises a passive ball transport conveyor comprising a plurality of rotatably mounted balls protruding from the support surface.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein, The distance between adjacent balls of the plurality of balls is between 5 cm and 50 cm, and / or wherein the diameter of the plurality of balls is between 5 mm and 50 mm, and / or wherein the plurality of balls protrude from the support surface with a height of less than 10 mm.

18. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, When viewed in a downstream direction, the support body comprises a first support body portion and a second support body portion, wherein there is a gap between the first support body portion and the second support body portion, wherein the control device is configured to control the movement device such that a plate is moved from the first support body portion towards the downstream direction to the second support body portion, and wherein the system further comprises a blowing device configured to blow air through the gap and / or conveyor portion.

19. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The control device is configured to control the movement device such that a rotation of 90° is performed while pushing or pulling the plate towards the processing station.

20. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The plate engagement device comprises one or more contact heads.

21. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The support body comprises at least a first table portion and a second table portion (110, 120), wherein the processing station is a second processing station, and wherein a first processing station is located at an edge of the first table portion, wherein the second table portion is located downstream of the first table portion when viewed along a machine transport direction towards the second processing station, wherein the first table portion is movable such that it can be moved away or folded up to allow an operator to access the first processing station.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein, The support body further comprises a third table portion (130) located downstream of the second table portion, wherein the second processing station is located at an edge of the third table portion, wherein the third table portion is movable such that it can be moved away or folded up to allow an operator to access the second processing station.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein, The moving device comprises an articulated operating arm (200) extending substantially parallel to the support surface and comprising at least a first section (210) and a second section (220); the first section (210) has a first end (211) rotatably connected to the second section about a first rotation axis (Al) perpendicular to the support surface and a second end (212) provided with plate engagement means (250) configured to come into contact with the plate in such a way that the movement of the operating arm causes the sliding of the plate on the support surface; the second section (220) is rotatable about a second rotation axis (A2) perpendicular to the support surface.

24. The system of claim 23, wherein, The control device comprises first drive means (410) for controlling the rotation of the first section with respect to the second section and second drive means (420) for controlling the rotation of the second section about the second rotation axis (A2).

25. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The plate engagement means are arranged rotatable about a third rotation axis (A3) perpendicular to the support surface.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein, The control device comprises drive means (430) configured to rotate the plate engagement means (250) about the third rotation axis (A3).

27. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, At least the plate engagement means are movable in a direction perpendicular to the support surface between a contact position, in which the plate engagement means are in contact with the plate, and a non-contact position, in which the plate engagement means are located at a distance above the plate.

28. The system of claim 27, wherein, The control device comprises drive means (440) configured to move at least the plate engagement means (250) between the contact position and the non-contact position.

29. The system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a detection assembly configured to detect a measure representative of the position of the plate, wherein the control device is configured to control the plate engagement means and / or the moving device as a function of the measure detected by the detection assembly.

30. The system of claim 29, wherein, The detection assembly is configured to detect whether the plate is correctly aligned at the entrance of the treatment station.

31. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The moving device and / or the control device are configured to move a plate having a weight comprised between 5 kg and 30 kg.

32. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The support body comprises a worktable provided with a plurality of holes and the system further comprises blowing means configured to blow air through the holes towards the direction of a plate supported on the worktable in order to reduce the friction between the plate and the worktable.

33. A method for moving a flexible plate (P) on a support surface towards a treatment station (S2), the method comprising the steps of: - supporting the plate on a support surface located upstream of the treatment station; - sliding the plate on the support surface using a moving device comprising plate engagement means (250); - moving the plate engagement means (250) between a contact position, in which the plate engagement means are in contact with the plate, and a non-contact position, in which the plate engagement means are located at a distance above the plate; and - controlling the movement of the plate on the support surface as a function of the position of the plate engagement means. - controlling the moving device so that the plate engagement device presses the plate against the support surface and engages with the plate by friction and / or adhesion and / or suction force, and so that the plate slides on the support surface towards the direction of the treatment station while being pressed against the support surface by the plate engagement device.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein, The control step is performed so that the following sequence of steps is executed: - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate at a first position (CL1) of the plate; - moving the plate according to a first trajectory (T1); - decoupling the plate engagement device from the plate; - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate at a second position (CL2) of the plate different from the first position; - moving the plate according to a second trajectory (T2).

35. The method of claim 34, wherein, The movement of the plate according to the first trajectory (T1) is a linear movement.

36. The method of claim 34, wherein, The movement of the plate according to the second trajectory (T2) comprises a rotation of 90° of the plate.

37. The method of claim 34, wherein, The first position (LC1) is a position in the proximity of a leading edge (LE) of the plate.

38. The method of claim 34, wherein, The second position (LC2) is located on one side of a centre line (L1) of the plate; or wherein the second position (LC2) is located in the proximity of a centre of the plate.

39. The method of claim 33, wherein, The control step is performed so that the following sequence of steps is executed: - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate; - moving the plate according to a trajectory comprising a rotation and / or a translation of the plate; - decoupling the plate engagement device from the plate.

40. The method of claim 33 or 34, wherein, The control step comprises controlling the moving device according to the dimensions of the plate.

41. The method of claim 40, wherein, It is determined whether the plate is larger than a predetermined dimension, and wherein if it is determined that the plate is larger than the predetermined dimension, the following sequence of steps is executed: - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate at a first position (CL1) of the plate; - moving the plate according to a first trajectory (T1); - decoupling the plate engagement device from the plate; - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate at a second position (CL2) of the plate different from the first position; - moving the plate according to a second trajectory (T2); and if it is determined that the plate is not larger than the predetermined dimension, the following sequence of steps is executed: - coupling the plate engagement device to the plate; - moving the plate according to a trajectory comprising a rotation and / or a translation of the plate; - decoupling the plate engagement device from the plate.

42. The method according to claim 33 or 34, further comprising a step of detecting a measure representative of a position of the plate, wherein the control step comprises controlling the rotation of the plate according to the detected measure.

43. The method of claim 42, wherein, The detection comprises detecting whether the plate is accurately aligned at the entrance of the treatment station. The detection comprises detecting whether the plate is accurately aligned at the entrance of the treatment station.

Images