Cleaning device and method for manufacturing flexographic printing plate precursor

Abstract

The invention provides a cleaning device with good productivity and work efficiency and a method for manufacturing a flexographic printing plate precursor. A cleaning device for developing a flexographic printing plate precursor after image exposure using a developer, the cleaning device comprising: a station on which the flexographic printing plate precursor is mounted; and a measuring unit that measures at least one of the size and the thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor and the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor on the station.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning device for developing an image-like exposed flexographic printing plate precursor using a developer and a method for manufacturing a flexographic printing plate precursor, and more particularly to a cleaning device for measuring at least one of the size and thickness of a flexographic printing plate precursor and the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor at a workstation and a method for manufacturing a flexographic printing plate precursor. Background Art

[0002] Various methods have been known for developing printing plates using photosensitive resin plates. For example, in a development method using an aqueous developer primarily composed of water, the aqueous developer is applied to the imagewise exposed photosensitive resin plate while cleaning the unexposed areas with a brush or the like.

[0003] There are various devices for developing printing plates made of photosensitive resins. For example, there are devices that develop by fixing the printing plate to a flat plate called a setter with adhesive or the like, devices that develop by fixing the printing plate to a rotating drum, and devices that develop by fixing the printing plate to a transport rod.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a device for processing a relief plate original such as a printing plate original to be processed, which comprises: a conveying rod having at least one penetrating element, preferably a plurality of penetrating elements; and a plate connecting station, which is configured to connect the relief plate original to the conveying rod by allowing at least one penetrating element to penetrate a non-perforated area near an edge of the relief plate original.

[0005] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 describes a punching station in which an edge portion is directly connected to a transport rod. Patent Document 2 describes a punching station for disposing one or more penetrating elements in or through an edge portion of a relief precursor, or for disposing one or more perforations in the edge portion. The punching station comprises: a punching mechanism comprising one or more penetrating elements or perforating elements and configured to pass the one or more penetrating elements or perforating elements through or dispose them in the edge portion of the relief precursor; an abutment mechanism aligned with the punching mechanism and configured to form an abutment portion on the edge of the relief precursor; a detection mechanism configured to detect whether the edge portion of the relief precursor is correctly positioned relative to the abutment mechanism at two or more locations along the abutment mechanism; and a signal mechanism configured to transmit a signal during the detection function of the detection mechanism.

[0006] Previous technical literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2019 / 206906

[0009] Patent Document 2: International Publication No. 2021 / 069540 Summary of the Invention

[0010] Technical issues to be solved by the invention

[0011] Currently, photosensitive resin plates are available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses. During the development process, to ensure proper development, the plate size and thickness must be entered into the developer. Because entering the plate size and thickness requires manual operation, it cannot be fully automated. Consequently, human errors caused by incorrectly entering the plate size and thickness are common. This results in reduced platemaking yield or unnecessary work, resulting in reduced productivity and work efficiency. Furthermore, if the plate size and thickness are incorrect, proper development cannot be performed, potentially resulting in poor development and the need for re-making the plate.

[0012] In Patent Documents 1 and 2, the plate size and thickness are not measured, so the plate size and thickness must be input, which further reduces productivity and work efficiency. Furthermore, as mentioned above, proper development cannot be performed, which may result in poor development and require re-plate making.

[0013] Furthermore, if the photosensitive resin plate is installed in an inclined state during the process of being set in the developing machine, transport failure or development failure of the photosensitive resin plate may occur, necessitating re-plate making.

[0014] The object of the present invention is to provide a cleaning device and a method for manufacturing a flexographic printing plate precursor with good productivity and work efficiency.

[0015] Means for solving technical problems

[0016] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the invention [1] is a cleaning device for developing a flexographic printing plate precursor after image-like exposure using a developer, the cleaning device comprising: a work station for mounting the flexographic printing plate precursor; and a measuring unit for measuring at least one of the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor and the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor on the work station.

[0017] Invention [2] is the cleaning device described in invention [1], wherein:

[0018] The measuring section includes a camera for photographing the flexographic printing plate precursor.

[0019] Invention [3] is a cleaning device as described in invention [1] or [2], which comprises: a plate position adjustment unit that changes the position of the flexographic printing plate original at the work station based on at least one of the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate original measured by the measuring unit and the position of the flexographic printing plate original at the work station.

[0020] Invention [4] is the cleaning device according to any one of Inventions [1] to [3], which has a punching unit that punches the leading end portion of the flexographic printing plate precursor.

[0021] Invention [5] is a cleaning device according to any one of Inventions [1] to [4], which has a plate loading section that installs a front end guide on a flexographic printing plate original at a work station.

[0022] Invention [6] is the cleaning device described in invention [5], wherein:

[0023] The front end guide is telescopic in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the workstation.

[0024] Invention [7] is the cleaning device according to any one of Inventions [1] to [6], wherein:

[0025] The flexographic printing plate precursor is developed using a developer in a developing tank. The cleaning device includes a conveying unit that positions the conveying position of the flexographic printing plate precursor in the developing tank at a predetermined position in the conveying direction of the flexographic printing plate precursor during development.

[0026] Invention [8] is a cleaning device according to any one of Inventions [1] to [7], comprising a developing section that uses a developer to remove unexposed portions of a flexographic printing plate precursor for development, the developing section comprising a brush for development.

[0027] Invention [9] is the cleaning device described in invention [8], which has a height position adjustment unit, which adjusts the position of the brush of the developing unit relative to the developing tank, and the height position adjustment unit adjusts the position of the brush relative to the flexographic printing plate original based on the thickness of the flexographic printing plate original obtained by the measuring unit.

[0028] Invention

[10] is the cleaning device according to any one of Inventions [1] to [9], comprising an inspection section that measures the surface shape of the flexographic printing plate precursor after development and inspects the development state.

[0029] Invention

[11] is the cleaning device according to any one of Inventions [1] to [9], which has an adjustment unit for adjusting the position of the measuring unit.

[0030] Invention

[12] is the cleaning device described in invention [8] or [9], which has a rear end pressing portion that presses the rear end of the flexographic printing plate original.

[0031] Invention

[13] is a method for producing a flexographic printing plate precursor, which uses the cleaning device described in any one of Inventions [1] to

[12] .

[0032] Effects of the Invention

[0033] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a cleaning device and a method for producing a flexographic printing plate precursor that are excellent in productivity and work efficiency. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic side sectional view showing an example of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 2 This is a schematic plan view showing an example of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of adjusting the position of a flexographic printing plate precursor in a cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 4 This is a schematic plan view showing a method of conveying a flexographic printing plate precursor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of how a flexographic printing plate precursor is mounted by a punching unit of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 6 This is a schematic side sectional view for explaining an example of development using the cleaning device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing a method for producing a flexographic printing plate precursor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 8 It is a schematic side sectional view showing another example of the cleaning device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 9 It is a schematic plan view showing another example of the cleaning device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing a rear end pressing portion of a flexographic printing plate precursor in another example of the cleaning device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 11This is a schematic diagram showing another example of the rear end pressing portion of the flexographic printing plate precursor, which is another example of the cleaning device according to the embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Hereinafter, the cleaning device and the method for producing a flexographic printing plate precursor according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0046] In addition, the drawings described below are exemplary drawings for explaining the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the drawings shown below.

[0047] Hereinafter, "to" indicating a numerical range includes the values ​​on both sides. For example, "ε is a value εα to a value εβ" means that the range of ε is a range including the values ​​εα and εβ. In mathematical notation, this is εα≤ε≤εβ.

[0048] Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the terms “orthogonal,” “parallel,” and specific angles include the generally acceptable error range in the relevant technical field. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, numerical values ​​include the generally acceptable error range in the relevant technical field.

[0049] [An example of a cleaning device]

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic side sectional view showing an example of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 1 is a schematic top view showing an example of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 In, omitted Figure 1 The structure of the control unit 48 and the like is not shown. In addition, the developing unit 50 including the brush 51 is not shown.

[0051] Figure 1 The cleaning device 10 shown is a cleaning device that develops the image-wise exposed flexographic printing plate precursor 60 using a developer Q. Each of the following components of the cleaning device 10 is controlled by a control unit 48 .

[0052] The cleaning apparatus 10 is sequentially provided with a workstation 12, a developer tank 13, and a discharge station 14. For example, the surface 12a of the workstation 12 and the surface 14a of the discharge station 14 are coplanar. The bottom surface 13b of the developer tank 13 is flat and parallel to the surface 12a of the workstation 12. The bottom surface 13b of the developer tank 13 is lower than the surface 12a of the workstation 12 and the surface 14a of the discharge station 14.

[0053] Furthermore, the cleaning apparatus 10 includes a transport section 16 that transports the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 .

[0054] In the station 12 , an image-wise exposed flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is placed on the surface 12 a. The measuring unit 25 measures at least one of the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and its position in the station 12 .

[0055] Furthermore, for example, the station 12 is a portion where the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is mounted on the front end guide 30 .

[0056] Although not shown, the workstation 12 can be a belt conveyor or a roller conveyor, for example. These belt conveyors or roller conveyors can use a common structure. In the case of a belt conveyor, the surface 12a of the workstation 12 is the surface of the conveyor belt. In the case of a roller conveyor, the surface 12a of the workstation 12 is the surface in contact with the plurality of rollers.

[0057] Image-wise exposure of the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is performed using an exposure device (not shown). In the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, the exposed portions (not shown) are cured and exist as cured portions, while the unexposed portions (not shown) remain uncured and exist as uncured portions. After a development step, the exposed portions become image portions, and the unexposed portions become non-image portions.

[0058] The developing tank 13 is a portion for developing the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. For example, a support table 15 for supporting the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is disposed on the bottom surface 13b of the developing tank 13. The flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is placed and supported on the surface 15a of the support table 15. Furthermore, a developer solution Q is stored in the developing tank 13.

[0059] The discharge station 14 is where the developed flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is removed from the developing tank 13 and placed. At the discharge station 14, the surface shape of the developed flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is measured and the development status is checked. The discharge station 14 also serves to dry the developed flexographic printing plate precursor 60.

[0060] Although not shown, the discharge station 14 can be, for example, a belt conveyor or a roller conveyor. Belt conveyors and roller conveyors can use common structures. In the case of a belt conveyor, the surface 14a of the discharge station 14 is the surface of the conveyor belt. In the case of a roller conveyor, the surface 14a of the discharge station 14 is the surface in contact with the plurality of rollers.

[0061] The transport unit 16 transports the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the transport direction D and the opposite direction DL. The transport unit 16 can move the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 to any position in the station 12 , the developing tank 13 , and the discharge station 14 .

[0062] The conveying direction D is a direction from the station 12 toward the developing tank 13 . The opposite direction DL to the conveying direction D is a direction from the discharge station 14 toward the developing tank 13 .

[0063] In the cleaning apparatus 10 , the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is conveyed in a conveyance direction D with its surface 60 a facing a frame 20 described later. Such conveyance of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is referred to as horizontal conveyance.

[0064] For example, the transport unit 16 includes a frame 20 , a guide rail 21 , a ball screw 22 , and a drive unit 24 .

[0065] like Figure 2 The frame 20 shown has two linear components 20a and 20b. The two linear components 20a and 20b are arranged parallel to each other, above the work station 12, the developing tank 13, and the discharge station 14, and along the arrangement direction of the work station 12, the developing tank 13, and the discharge station 14.

[0066] Guide rails 21 are provided on the two linear members 20 a and 20 b of the frame 20 along the extending directions of the linear members 20 a and 20 b , respectively.

[0067] The ball screw 22 is provided on the guide rail 21 of the linear member 20a along the extending direction of the linear member 20a. The ball screw 22 is provided on the guide rail 21 of the linear member 20b along the extending direction of the linear member 20b.

[0068] The housing 30a of the front end guide 30 described later is screwed to the ball screw 22. When the ball screw 22 is rotated by the driving unit 24, the front end guide 30 moves in the conveying direction D or the opposite direction DL according to the direction of rotation. As a result, the flexographic printing plate original 60 is conveyed along the conveying direction D and the opposite direction DL. And, for example, in the case where the driving unit 24 is a servo motor provided with an encoder, the position of the component screwed to the ball screw 22 is determined by the encoder, that is, the position of the front end guide 30 and the flexographic printing plate original 60 in the conveying direction is determined. Even if a linear encoder is provided on the component screwed to the ball screw 22 instead of the driving unit 24, the position of the front end guide 30 and the flexographic printing plate original 60 in the conveying direction can be determined.

[0069] Information on the positions of the leading end guide 30 and the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveying direction is output from the driving section 24 to the control section 48 , which determines the positions of the leading end guide 30 and the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveying direction.

[0070] In addition, the structure in which the ball screw 22 is provided on the two linear members 20a and 20b is preferable, but it is not limited to this. The structure in which the ball screw 22 is provided on either of the two linear members 20a and 20b may be sufficient.

[0071] Furthermore, in the cleaning apparatus 10, a structure may be adopted in which a single ball screw 22 is provided at a midpoint between the two linear members 20a and 20b in the direction Dw perpendicular to the conveying direction D on the station 12. When a single ball screw 22 is provided between the two linear members 20a and 20b in the direction Dw perpendicular to the conveying direction D on the station 12, the arrangement position thereof is not particularly limited.

[0072] During development, the transport unit 16 positions the transport position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the developing tank 13 at a predetermined position in the transport direction D of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. As will be described later, during development, the transport unit 16 positions the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 at the transport positions P1 and P2 (see FIG. Figure 6 ).

[0073] like Figure 1 The cleaning device 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes a measuring unit 25 . The measuring unit 25 is disposed above the workstation 12 . The measuring unit 25 is provided with an adjusting unit 26 , for example.

[0074] The measuring unit 25 measures at least one of the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the workstation 12. The measuring unit 25 determines the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the workstation 12. This determines the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, including its inclination on the workstation 12. Furthermore, the size of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is determined.

[0075] The position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the station 12 includes a direction Dw perpendicular to the conveying direction D on the station 12 (reference Figure 2 ) parallel to the reference line (not shown), the angle 60e of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the conveying direction D side (reference Figure 3 ) in the direction Dw. For example, the inclination and angle 60e (reference Figure 3 ) in the direction Dw can be determined by extracting the contour of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and using known image processing techniques or known image pattern matching based on the contour information. For image pattern matching, a model obtained by machine learning using flexographic printing plate precursors 60 of various sizes and thicknesses can also be used.

[0076] For example, information on the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 obtained by the measuring unit 25, and the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 at the station 12 is stored in the memory 49. The information on the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 at the station 12 is also referred to as information on the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60.

[0077] The information on the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 stored in the memory 49 is read from the memory 49 by the control unit 48 during the conveyance of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and used for position adjustment of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and for the conveyance positions P1 and P2 of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 (see FIG. Figure 6 ) positioning.

[0078] Furthermore, information regarding the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate original 60 and the position of the flexographic printing plate original 60 stored in the memory 49 is read from the memory 49 by the control unit 48 during the development process of the flexographic printing plate original 60, and the position of the brush 51 during the development process is adjusted.

[0079] Based on the size information about the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 , length information of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveying direction D and length information of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the direction Dw can be obtained.

[0080] As described above, the measuring unit 25 is not particularly limited as long as it can measure at least one of the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the workstation 12. For example, the measuring unit 25 may include a measuring device equipped with a camera for imaging the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, a three-dimensional measuring device using two cameras, or a three-dimensional scanner using a laser beam or ultrasonic waves.

[0081] The camera that captures the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is, for example, a camera that captures the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 from above the station 12. The camera is not particularly limited as long as it can capture the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. For example, a camera having a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor can be used.

[0082] The use of a three-dimensional measuring device or a three-dimensional scanner in the measuring unit 25 is preferred because it enables acquisition of information regarding the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, as well as the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. For example, three-dimensional measuring devices manufactured by KEYENCE CORPORATION or Mech-Mind Robotics Technologies Ltd. can be used. Three-dimensional scanners manufactured by KEYENCE CORPORATION can be used.

[0083] Furthermore, a handheld 3D scanner can be used as the 3D scanner. Furthermore, the handheld 3D scanner can be mounted on a multi-axis robot, which can be operated by the multi-axis robot to obtain information about the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 600, as well as the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60.

[0084] The adjustment unit 26 adjusts the position of the measuring unit 25. If the measuring unit 25 comprises, for example, a camera, a three-dimensional measuring device, or a three-dimensional scanner, the adjustment unit 26 changes the distance between the camera, the three-dimensional measuring device, or the three-dimensional scanner and the surface 12a of the workstation 12. In other words, the adjustment unit 26 adjusts the height of the measuring unit 25 relative to the surface 12a of the workstation 12. The adjustment unit 26 can also change the position of the measuring unit 25 in the conveying direction D.

[0085] Furthermore, the adjustment unit 26 may be an adjustment unit that changes the direction of a camera, a three-dimensional measuring device, or a three-dimensional scanner.

[0086] The structure of the adjustment portion 26 is not particularly limited as long as it can change at least the distance between the measurement portion 25 and the surface 12 a of the station 12 .

[0087] The adjustment unit 26 allows the measurement unit 25 to be arranged at a position corresponding to the measurement range of the measurement unit 25 .

[0088] The cleaning device 10 includes a plate position adjusting unit 27. The plate position adjusting unit 27 changes the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the station 12 based on information on at least one of the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 measured by the measuring unit 25 and the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60.

[0089] The plate position adjustment unit 27 is, for example, a multi-axis robot.

[0090] When the plate position adjustment unit 27 is a multi-axis robot, for example, Figure 3In the case where the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is arranged at an angle, after the pair of arms 27a of the plate position adjustment unit 27 clamp the opposing side edges 60c of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is rotated, for example, based on the size of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the workstation 12, thereby adjusting the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. In this case, for example, the pair of arms 27a is used to rotate the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 so that the leading edge 60d of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the conveyance direction D is parallel to the direction Dw orthogonal to the conveyance direction D within the surface 12a of the workstation 12.

[0091] The control unit 48 can measure the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 by the measuring unit 25 after the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is adjusted by the plate position adjusting unit 27. In this way, the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the station 12 after the position adjustment can be determined.

[0092] The control unit 48 may also be configured to determine whether the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the workstation 12 is appropriate based on information regarding the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 obtained by the measuring unit 25. For example, the appropriate position, including information such as the inclination of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the workstation 12, may be predetermined, and a threshold value may be set for the appropriate position. If the threshold value is exceeded, the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the workstation 12 is changed. For example, the appropriate position and the threshold value relative to the appropriate position are stored in the memory 49. For example, the threshold value may be set based on the position of the corner portion 60e on the conveyance direction D of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the direction Dw and the inclination of the leading edge 60d relative to the direction Dw.

[0093] Furthermore, after adjusting the position of the flexographic printing plate original 60, the control unit 48 can measure the size and thickness related to the flexographic printing plate original 60 and the position of the flexographic printing plate original 60 in the measuring unit 25 to determine whether the position of the flexographic printing plate original 60 on the workstation 12 is an appropriate position.

[0094] The plate position adjustment unit 27 is not limited to a multi-axis robot. For example, it may be a rotating table provided on the station 12. The inclination of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 may be adjusted by rotating the rotating table.

[0095] Furthermore, a plurality of belt conveyors may be arranged at the workstation 12 , and the conveying direction of the belt conveyors may be adjusted to adjust the inclination of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 .

[0096] After the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is adjusted using a multi-axis robot or the like as described above, the multi-axis robot is used to transport the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 to the punching section 40 of the front end guide 30. The transport method is not limited to the multi-axis robot, and a belt conveyor, a roller conveyor, or a vacuum suction cup may also be used for transport.

[0097] The flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is transported by the transport unit 16 using the front end guide 30. The front end guide 30 is transported by the transport unit 16 from the start position Ps to the position Pe.

[0098] The front end guide 30 includes a housing 30a that is threadedly engaged with the ball screw 22, an arm 30b provided on the housing 30a, and a support portion 30c that is retractable relative to the arm 30b. The ball screw 22 is rotated by the drive unit 24, thereby moving the housing 30a in the conveying direction D and the front end guide 30 in the conveying direction D.

[0099] The front end guide 30 has a support portion 30 c that is telescopic relative to the arm 30 b , and the front end guide 30 is telescopic in a direction perpendicular to the surface 12 a of the workstation 12 .

[0100] The arm 30b and the support portion 30c extend from the frame 20 toward the surface 12a of the station 12. A plate fixing portion 32 is provided at the end of the support portion 30c on the opposite side from the arm 30b.

[0101] The housing 30 a , the arm 30 b , and the support portion 30 c are disposed so as to face each other on both sides of the plate fixing portion 32 in the direction Dw.

[0102] For example, Figure 4 The plate fixing portion 32 shown has a long strip-shaped base 32a, and a plurality of pins 32b are arranged at equal intervals along the length direction of the base 32a. Figure 4 The pin 32b is used to fix the flexographic printing plate original 60 to the front end guide 30. The length direction of the base 32a is parallel to the conveying direction D (reference Figure 4 ) is perpendicular to the direction Dw and is parallel to the direction Dw.

[0103] The front end guide 30 of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is configured to secure the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 using pins 32b. However, the shape, number, and spacing of the pins 32b are not particularly limited. To facilitate removal of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, the pins 32b are preferably spaced apart. Furthermore, to prevent contamination of the exposed surface of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, i.e., the surface 60a, during the securing process, and to prevent contamination of the developer solution Q in the developer tank 13, the pins 32b preferably do not generate residue.

[0104] The pin 32b has, for example, a barb. The barb prevents the flexographic printing plate original 60 from falling off the pin 32b, thereby reliably fixing the flexographic printing plate original 60. Therefore, the pin 32b preferably has a barb. In addition, the barb means that the base 33a of the pin 32b (refer to Figure 5 ) side protrudes from the base 33a. The flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is secured by the base 33a, but the barbs 33b protrude beyond the base 33a, restricting movement of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 toward the tip of the pin 32b. Thus, the barbs prevent the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 from falling off the pin 32b. As described above, once the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is penetrated by the pin 32b, the barbs 33b prevent it from falling off the pin 32b, thereby reliably securing it.

[0105] Furthermore, it is preferable that at least the surface of the pin 32 b that contacts the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 has a resin layer, a plating layer, or a DLC layer (diamond-like carbon layer), or that a plurality of depressions and projections are formed on the surface that contacts the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 .

[0106] The electroplated layer is preferably a hard chromium electroplated layer. Furthermore, the surface of the pin 32b that contacts the flexographic printing plate original 60 may be surface-treated with titanium nitride (TiN) or the like. This reduces friction between the pin 32b and the flexographic printing plate original 60, making it easier for the pin 32b to penetrate the flexographic printing plate original 60. This further improves the durability of the pin 32b, allowing for repeated use of the pin 32b and, in turn, enhancing the durability of the front end guide 30.

[0107] For example, a plurality of concavo-convex patterns are formed on the surface of the pin 32 b that contacts the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 by embossing.

[0108] In order to fix the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 to the front end guide 30 via the pins 32 b , a punching unit 40 is provided for punching a front end portion 60 f of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 .

[0109] For example, the punching portion 40 is provided for each pin 32b. Therefore, if there are a plurality of pins 32b, a plurality of punching portions 40 are provided according to the number of pins.

[0110] Figure 5 The punching unit 40 shown includes a driving unit 41 and a pressing unit 42. The pressing unit 42 includes a recess 43. To ensure that the recess 43 fits into the pin 32b, the inner diameter of the recess 43 is preferably larger than the maximum outer diameter of the pin 32b. This allows the pin 32b to more reliably penetrate the flexographic printing plate precursor 60.

[0111] Here, the leading end portion 60 f of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 refers to the end portion on the advancing side of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveyance direction D. Punching means penetrating the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 .

[0112] The structure of the driving portion 41 is not particularly limited as long as it can move the pressing portion 42 from the initial position toward the pin 32b and return to the initial position. For example, a cylinder is used. The initial position refers to the setting position of the pressing portion 42, and the initial position is also called the initial position.

[0113] The press-fit portion 42 is used to punch a hole in the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 with the pin 32 b and to penetrate the pin 32 b . Therefore, the press-fit portion 42 preferably has strength to prevent deformation and is made of metal, for example.

[0114] The press-fit portion 42 is preferably made of rust-resistant stainless steel, such as martensitic stainless steel or austenitic stainless steel, which exhibits high wear resistance and quench-hardening properties during the opening process of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. Martensitic stainless steel and austenitic stainless steel are developed for tool applications, and examples include the manufacturer's original brand stainless steel, SUS (stainless steel) 410, SUS420J1, SUS420J2, SUS304, and SUS316. Alternatively, carbon tool steel, alloy tool steel, high-speed tool steel, or hard alloy may be used for the press-fit portion 42.

[0115] The flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is arranged so that the back surface 60b faces the pin 32b of the front end guide 30. The pressing portion 42 is arranged on the front surface 60a side of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60.

[0116] When the recess 43 of the punching unit 40 and the pin 32b of the front end guide 30 are aligned, and the driving unit 41 pushes the pressing unit 42, which is in its initial position, toward the pin 32b, the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is pushed toward the pin 32b. The pin 32b punches the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, and the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is fixed to the front end guide 30. At this time, the pin 32b is engaged with the recess 43. Afterwards, the driving unit 41 returns the pressing unit 42 to its initial position.

[0117] It is preferable to determine the size of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveying direction D (reference direction) based on the information on the size of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 obtained by the measuring unit 25. Figure 2 ) perpendicular to the direction Dw (reference Figure 2 ) and the pin 32b to be punched is determined based on the information of the length and the position of the flexographic printing plate original 60. As a result, it is not necessary to operate the punching unit 40 relative to the pin 32b where the flexographic printing plate original 60 is not arranged, which can improve the working efficiency. The flexographic printing plate original 60 is in the direction Dw (reference Figure 2 ) is generally called width.

[0118] The front end guide 30 is attached to the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 via the punching unit 40, also serving as the plate mounting unit 44. The front end 60f of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is placed on the pin 32b. The flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is then punched by the punching unit 40 and secured to the front end guide 30.

[0119] When the plate position adjustment unit 27 is a multi-axis robot, the multi-axis robot can be used to arrange the leading end portion 60 f of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the pin 32 b .

[0120] Furthermore, the punching section 40 is configured to also serve as the plate-mounting section 44, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the punching section 40 and the plate-mounting section 44 may be provided separately, and after forming a through-hole (not shown) for mounting the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the front end guide 30 through the punching section 40, the front end guide 30 may be mounted on the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 by inserting the pin 32b through the through-hole in the front end portion 60f of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60.

[0121] In the front end guide 30, the structure of the support portion 30c is not particularly limited as long as it can be extended and retracted relative to the arm 30b. Examples of structures for extending and retracting the support portion 30c relative to the arm 30b include a structure utilizing an elastic body such as a spring or rubber, a structure utilizing air pressure, and a structure utilizing hydraulic pressure.

[0122] The cleaning device 10 includes a developing section 50 for removing unexposed portions (not shown) of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 using a developer Q and performing development. The developing section 50 is provided above the developing tank 13. The developing section 50 includes a brush 51 used for development.

[0123] For example, the brush 51 is arranged between the arm 30 b and the support portion 30 c arranged to face each other on both sides of the plate fixing portion 32 in the direction Dw.

[0124] For example, the brush 51 is larger than the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 when viewed from above. For example, the brush 51 is a brush in which the bristles 51b are bundled and vertically attached to the rectangular base 51a when viewed from above. This is called a flat brush. The base 51a is attached to the height adjustment unit 53. The shape of the base 51a corresponds to that of the brush 51. The shape of the base 51a is not limited to a rectangular shape when viewed from above.

[0125] For example, the brush 51 is connected to a motor 52 for causing the brush 51 to reciprocate during the development process.

[0126] The movement of the brush 51 is not particularly limited, and may be any of rotation, reciprocation, a combination of rotation and reciprocation, or eccentric motion.

[0127] Furthermore, the brush 51 may be operated continuously during the development process, or may be configured to operate only while the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is being conveyed to the development tank 13. In this case, for example, a sensor (not shown) for detecting the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 may be provided above the development tank 13, and the timing and speed of conveyance of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 may be used to determine the time at which the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 reaches the brush 51, thereby rotating the brush 51 for development.

[0128] In addition, a height adjustment unit 53 is provided for adjusting the position of the brush 51 relative to the developer tank 13. The height adjustment unit 53 determines the distance between the brush 51 and the bottom surface 13b of the developer tank 13. The height adjustment unit 53 allows the position of the brush 51 relative to the bottom surface 13b of the developer tank 13 to be changed. Furthermore, the height adjustment unit 53 allows the pressure of the brush 51 on the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 to be adjusted. This increases the pressure of the brush 51 and also increases the development speed. Furthermore, when increasing the pressure of the brush 51, it is preferable to adjust the material, length, and thickness of the bristles of the brush 51 according to the desired pressure. The bristles in the center of a brush 51 can be lengthened, the thickness of the bristles can be changed, or the density of the bristles can be changed.

[0129] Furthermore, since the height adjustment unit 53 can separate the brush 51 from the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, the brush 51 can be suspended above the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. Therefore, if development residue adheres to the brush 51, the residue can be removed from the brush 51. Retracting the brush 51 from the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is preferred because it can suppress the adhesion of development residue.

[0130] The structure of the height position adjusting portion 53 is not particularly limited as long as the position of the brush 51 relative to the bottom surface 13 b of the developer tank 13 can be changed.

[0131] For example, a brush called a cup brush can be used as the brush 51. In the cup brush, it is preferable to use the brush with the bristles of the brush in contact with the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 substantially perpendicularly.

[0132] The cup brush is smaller than the size of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. Since the brush is small, the pressure of the brush can be made uniform by moving the brush relative to the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 during development, thereby improving development uniformity.

[0133] Furthermore, by moving the cup brush in a planar direction while conveying the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 for development, the brush area required for development can be reduced, thereby simplifying the cleaning apparatus. The number of cup brushes is not particularly limited and can be appropriately determined based on the size of the developer tank 13 and the size of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60.

[0134] A roller brush can also be used as the brush 51. A roller brush is a brush in which bristles are radially bundled and implanted relative to the rotation axis. The bristles of the roller brush can be the same as those of the brush 51 described above.

[0135] The roller brush is disposed so that its rotation axis is parallel to the direction Dw. The number of roller brushes is not particularly limited and can be appropriately determined according to the size of the developer tank 13 and the size of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 .

[0136] For example, after the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is conveyed into the developing tank 13, the height position adjusting unit 53 moves the brush 51 toward the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 based on information about the thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. This allows the brush 51 to be positioned at an appropriate height based on the thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, enabling appropriate development. For example, development can be performed with the bristles 51b of the brush 51 in contact with the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60.

[0137] Furthermore, a distance sensor 54 may be provided to measure the distance between the brush 51 and the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the developer tank 13. This allows information on the thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 to be obtained without measuring the thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 by the measuring unit 25.

[0138] The distance sensor 54 is not particularly limited as long as it can measure the distance between the brush 51 and the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the developer tank 13. For example, the distance sensor 54 can use a sensor using a laser beam, millimeter waves, or ultrasonic waves.

[0139] The cleaning device 10 includes, for example, an inspection unit 56 that measures the surface shape of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 after development and inspects the development state. The inspection unit 56 is disposed above the discharge station 14 .

[0140] For the surface shape after development, a reference value and an allowable range relative to the reference value are set in advance and stored in the memory 49 .

[0141] For example, the inspection unit 56 determines whether appropriate development has been performed within an allowable range relative to a reference value based on the measurement result of the surface shape after development.

[0142] As the reference value, for example, the presence or absence of adhesion of development residues, the presence or absence of brush marks, and the thickness of the unexposed film after development can be used.

[0143] The inspection unit 56 is not particularly limited as long as it can measure the surface shape of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 after development. Similar to the measuring unit 25 described above, for example, a measuring device using a single camera, a three-dimensional measuring device using two cameras, or a three-dimensional scanner using a laser beam or ultrasonic waves can be used. Using a three-dimensional measuring device or a three-dimensional scanner in the inspection unit 56 is preferred because it enables acquisition of three-dimensional information on the surface shape of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 after development.

[0144] Furthermore, similarly to the measuring unit 25 , the inspection unit 56 may be provided with an adjusting unit 57 for adjusting the position of the inspection unit 56 .

[0145] If the inspection unit 56 includes, for example, a camera, a three-dimensional measuring device, or a three-dimensional scanner, the adjustment unit 57 changes the distance between the camera, three-dimensional measuring device, or three-dimensional scanner and the surface 12a of the workstation 12. Specifically, the adjustment unit 57 adjusts the height of the inspection unit 56 relative to the surface 14a of the unloading station 14. The adjustment unit 57 may also change the position of the inspection unit 56 in the conveying direction D. Furthermore, the adjustment unit 57 may also be an adjustment unit that changes the orientation of the camera, three-dimensional measuring device, or three-dimensional scanner.

[0146] The structure of the adjustment portion 57 is not particularly limited as long as it can change at least the distance between the inspection portion 56 and the surface 14 a of the discharge station 14 .

[0147] The adjustment unit 57 allows the inspection unit 56 to be arranged at a position corresponding to the measurement range of the inspection unit 56 .

[0148] With the above-described configuration, in the cleaning device 10, the measuring unit 25 measures at least one of the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 at the workstation 12. This reduces human error caused by incorrectly inputting the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. Consequently, proper development can be performed without reducing platemaking yield or increasing unnecessary work, and without causing transport or development problems. This improves productivity and work efficiency.

[0149] <Method for Manufacturing Flexographic Printing Plate Precursor>

[0150] A method for producing a flexographic printing plate precursor using the cleaning device 10 will be described. In the method for producing a flexographic printing plate precursor, the image-wise exposed flexographic printing plate precursor is developed using a developer. Development is also referred to as cleaning.

[0151] Figure 61 is a schematic side sectional view for explaining an example of development using a cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 Flowchart showing a method for producing a flexographic printing plate precursor according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 In, with Figure 1 The same components of the cleaning apparatus 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0152] In the method for producing a flexographic printing plate precursor, first, as Figure 6 As shown, the imagewise exposed flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is placed on the surface 12a of the station 12 (step S10). The placement of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the surface 12a of the station 12 is also referred to as setting.

[0153] Next, with the flexographic printing plate original 60 placed on the second station 12, for example, the measuring unit 25 is used to measure the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate original 60 on the surface 12a of the station 12 and the position of the flexographic printing plate original 60 on the station 12 (step S12).

[0154] The information on the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and the information on the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 obtained by the measurement in step S12 are stored in, for example, the memory 49 .

[0155] The control unit 48 determines the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the workstation 12 based on the information about the position and size of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. As described above, the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the direction Dw on the workstation 12 and the inclination of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 are thereby determined. Furthermore, the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 are also determined.

[0156] Next, the control unit 48 determines whether the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the station 12 is an appropriate position based on the information on the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the station 12 (step S14 ).

[0157] As described above, for example, the appropriate position including the inclination of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and the like is determined in advance, and a threshold value is set for the appropriate position.

[0158] In step S14 , the control unit 48 compares the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the station 12 with the appropriate position to determine whether it is the appropriate position.

[0159] If it is determined in step S14 that the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is appropriate, the leading end portion 60 f of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is fixed to the leading end guide 30 (step S16 ).

[0160] In step S16, for example, using Figure 5 The punching unit 40 shown in FIG. 1 punches holes in the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 with the pins 32b and mounts the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 on the front end guide 30. In this case, according to the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and the direction of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 relative to the conveying direction D (reference Figure 2 ) perpendicular to the direction Dw (reference Figure 2 ) on the pins 32b to be punched.

[0161] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S14 that the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is inappropriate, the plate position adjustment unit 27 adjusts the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 using, for example, a multi-axis robot (step S15 ).

[0162] In addition, after step S15 , the above-mentioned step S14 may be executed again, and in step S14 , the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is repeatedly adjusted (step S15 ) until the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is determined to be appropriate.

[0163] After step S16, the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is transported into the developer tank 13 (step S18). The bottom surface 13b of the developer tank 13 is lower than the surface 12a of the station 12. In this case, since the support portion 30c is extended and retracted relative to the arm 30b, the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is transported along the bottom surface 13b of the developer tank 13.

[0164] Here, in the station 12, the size of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is determined in the conveying direction D (reference Figure 6 ) length, and in the direction Dw (reference Figure 2 ) on the length.

[0165] In step S18, with the rear end of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 as a reference for aligning the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, the position of the leading end guide 30 during the development process is changed according to the length of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveying direction D. According to the length of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, for example, Figure 6 The front end guide 30 is determined to be in the conveying position P1 (refer to Figure 6 ) and develop. And, according to the length of the flexographic printing plate original 60, for example, the front end guide 30 is determined to be the conveying position P2 (reference Figure 6 ) and develop.

[0166] The conveyance positions P1 and P2 are determined based on the length of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveyance direction D. Therefore, the control unit 48 predetermines the amount of movement of the front end guide 30 controlled by the drive unit 24 based on information about the length of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveyance direction D. Thus, the amount of movement of the front end guide 30 controlled by the drive unit 24 is set based on information about the length of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveyance direction D obtained by the measuring unit 25. In other words, the amount of movement of the front end guide 30 from the starting position Ps is set. The starting position Ps is the position where the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is fixed to the front end guide 30.

[0167] According to the length of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveying direction D, after the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is conveyed into the developing tank 13 (step S18), the height position adjusting unit 53 adjusts the brush 51 as follows according to the thickness information of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. Figure 6 The height of the brush 51 relative to the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is adjusted so that the brush 51 is located at an appropriate position (step S20).

[0168] After adjusting the height of the brush (step S20), the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is subjected to a developer Q (reference Figure 6 ) The unexposed portion of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is removed and the image portion as the exposed portion is developed (step S22). Thus, after step S22, the exposed portion becomes the image portion and the unexposed portion becomes the non-image portion.

[0169] In step S22 (development process), the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is conveyed into the developing tank 13 according to the length of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveying direction D. In this state, the brush 51 is moved by the motor 52 to perform development. Development is performed at the conveying positions P1 and P2 (refer to FIG. 1 ) of the front end guide 30 corresponding to the length of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. Figure 6 ) is carried out at .

[0170] After step S22 (development process), the front end guide 30 is moved to the discharge station 14, thereby transporting the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 to position Pe along the transport direction D. At this point, the surface 14a of the discharge station 14 is at a higher position than the bottom surface 13b of the developer tank 13. In this situation, the support portion 30c is extended and retracted relative to the arm 30b, so the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is transported along the surface 14a of the discharge station 14.

[0171] Thereafter, the inspection section 56 measures the surface shape of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 after development, and inspects the development state (step S24 ).

[0172] In addition, a reference value and an allowable range relative to the reference value are set in advance for the surface shape after development. In step S24 (inspection process), inspection is performed using the allowable range relative to the reference value.

[0173] In step S24 , if the surface shape after development is within the permissible range relative to the reference value, it is determined that appropriate development has been performed. Thus, the method for manufacturing the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 ends.

[0174] On the other hand, if the surface shape after development falls outside the permissible range relative to the reference value in step S24, development is determined to be inappropriate. In this case, for example, platemaking is performed again. Specifically, a new flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is prepared after imagewise exposure of the surface 60a, and the process returns to step S10 to perform development again. As described above, if development is determined to be inappropriate in step S24, additional development can be performed on the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 that has already been developed.

[0175] As described above, in the method for manufacturing a flexographic printing plate precursor, at least one of the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 at the workstation 12 are measured. This prevents human error caused by incorrectly inputting the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. Consequently, proper development can be performed without reducing the platemaking yield or increasing unnecessary work, and without causing transport or development problems. This improves productivity and work efficiency.

[0176] [Another example of a cleaning device]

[0177] Figure 8 It is a schematic side sectional view showing another example of the cleaning device according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 It is a schematic plan view showing another example of the cleaning device according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 1 is a schematic diagram showing a rear end pressing portion of a flexographic printing plate precursor, which is another example of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing another example of the rear end pressing portion of the flexographic printing plate precursor, which is another example of the cleaning device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0178] exist Figure 8 In, omitted Figure 9 The diagram of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is shown. Figure 9 In, omitted Figure 8 In the diagram of the configuration of the control unit 48 and the like, the developing unit 50 including the brush 51 is omitted.

[0179] Figure 10 and Figure 11In the figure, the Figure 9 The rear end pressing parts 70 and 71 are viewed from the direction A shown.

[0180] In addition, Figures 8 to 11 In, with Figure 1 and Figure 2 The same components of the cleaning apparatus 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0181] Figure 8 and Figure 9 The cleaning device 10a shown is Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cleaning device 10 shown in FIG. 1 is different in that it has a rear end pressing portion 70 for pressing the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate original 60. The other structures are the same as those in FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cleaning devices 10 shown are identical.

[0182] The rear end pressing portion 70 is provided on the developer tank 13 .

[0183] The rear end pressing portion 70 includes a base 72 , a support portion 73 that extends and contracts relative to the base 72 in a direction perpendicular to the surface 15 a of the support platform 15 , and a pressing plate 74 provided at an end of the support portion 73 on the surface 15 a side of the support platform 15 .

[0184] The base 72 is provided on the opposite side of each of the components 20a and 20b. Since the housing 30a of the front end guide 30 passes over the base 72, the base 72 is arranged at a position that does not interfere with the housing 30a of the front end guide 30.

[0185] For example, the support portion 73 can be extended and retracted relative to the base portion 72 in a direction perpendicular to the surface 15a of the support platform 15 using a pneumatic cylinder, hydraulic cylinder, or ball screw in a drive unit (not shown). Furthermore, the drive unit (not shown) can retract the support portion 73 relative to the base portion 72, and position the end of the support portion 73 at a predetermined position. This allows the pressure plate 74 to be stopped at a predetermined position perpendicular to the surface 15a of the support platform 15.

[0186] Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the support portion 73 in the direction perpendicular to the extension and contraction direction of the support portion 73 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a circle or a polygon such as a triangle or a quadrilateral.

[0187] The pressing plate 74 is, for example, a rectangular plate. In this case, the pressing plate 74 is positioned so that its longitudinal direction is aligned with the direction Dw. The pressing plate 74 is moved toward the surface 15a of the support table 15 by the support portion 73, thereby pressing the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in a strip-like manner along the direction Dw.

[0188] When the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is used as a reference for aligning the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, the position of the rear end pressing portion 70 remains unchanged and is fixed. Therefore, during development, the position of the front end guide 30 in the conveying direction D is changed according to the size of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60.

[0189] In the rear end pressing portion 70, for example, the flexographic printing plate original 60 is conveyed into the developing tank 13 and reaches the rear end pressing portion 70, the support portion 73 is in a retracted state, and the pressing plate 74 is separated from the surface 15a of the support table 15 in a manner that the flexographic printing plate original 60 can pass through.

[0190] As mentioned above Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cleaning device 10 shown can prevent curling and plate falling off of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 even with only the front end guide 30. However, by further providing the rear end pressing portion 70, the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is pressed, thereby further preventing curling and plate falling off of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. Therefore, it is preferable to provide the rear end pressing portion 70.

[0191] exist Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the illustrated cleaning apparatus 10a, a flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is conveyed into the developing tank 13. Using the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 as a reference for aligning the position of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, the front end guide 30 stops at a position in the conveying direction D corresponding to the length of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveying direction D. At this point, the pressing plate 74 is separated from the surface 15a of the support table 15 and positioned so that the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 can reach it.

[0192] After the front end guide 30 stops, the base 72 of the rear end pressing portion 70 extends toward the surface 15a of the support table 15, sandwiching the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 between the pressing plate 74 and the surface 15a of the support table 15, thereby securing the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. With the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 secured, the development process is performed. As described above, the development process is performed without causing the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 to curl or fall off.

[0193] After the development process is completed, the base 72 of the rear end pressing portion 70 is retracted, and the pressing plate 74 is separated from the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. Then, the front end guide 30 moves in the conveying direction D, and the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is conveyed to the discharge station 14.

[0194] The structure of the rear end pressing portion 70 is not limited to the following. Figure 10 The structure shown has a pressure plate 74. For example, Figure 11 The rear end pressing portion 71 shown in FIG. 1 may also be a structure without the pressing plate 74. Figure 11 In the rear end pressing portion 71 shown, Figure 10 The same components of the rear end pressing portion 70 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0195] In the rear end pressing portion 71, the support portion 73 extends and retracts relative to the base portion 72 in a direction perpendicular to the surface 15a of the support table 15, similar to the rear end pressing portion 70 described above. Furthermore, for example, the end 73a of the support portion 73 on the side of the surface 15a of the support table 15 is flat. The flat end 73a of the support portion 73 presses the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. In the rear end pressing portion 71, the two support portions 73 press the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, partially suppressing the flexographic printing plate precursor 60.

[0196] The rear end pressing portion 71 is in the same manner as the above-mentioned pressure plate 74, for example, until the flexographic printing plate original 60 is transported into the developing tank 13 and reaches the rear end pressing portion 71, the support portion 73 is in a retracted state, and the end portion 73a of the support portion 73 is separated from the surface 15a of the support table 15 in a manner that allows the flexographic printing plate original 60 to pass through.

[0197] In the rear end pressing portion 71 and the support portion 73, the cross-sectional shape in the direction perpendicular to the extension and contraction direction of the support portion 73 is not particularly limited and can be set to the same structure as the rear end pressing portion 70. For example, it can be circular or polygonal such as a triangle or a quadrilateral.

[0198] In the rear end pressing parts 70 and 71 , the base 72 , the support part 73 , and the pressing plate 74 are preferably made of stainless steel having excellent corrosion resistance, and austenitic stainless steel and martensitic stainless steel are particularly preferred.

[0199] Austenitic and martensitic stainless steels developed for knife applications. Manufacturer's original brand stainless steels, including SUS410, SUS420J1, SUS420J2, SUS304, and SUS316.

[0200] The rear end pressing portions 70 and 71 can be made of resin. In this case, a resin having alkali resistance is preferable. For example, polyvinyl chloride resin can be used.

[0201] use Figure 8 and Figure 9 The method for manufacturing a flexographic printing plate precursor using the cleaning device 10a shown is similar to the method using the cleaning device 10 (see Figure 1 )of Figure 7 The manufacturing method of the flexographic printing plate precursor shown is the same as that of the flexographic printing plate precursor except for the following differences.

[0202] according to Figure 7 The length of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveying direction D in step S18 is such that the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is conveyed into the developing tank 13, and the front end guide 30 is at the conveying positions P1 and P2 (reference Figure 6 At this time, the pressing plate 74 is separated from the surface 15a of the support table 15 and is arranged at a position where the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate original 60 can reach.

[0203] After the front end guide 30 stops, the base 72 of the rear end pressing portion 70 extends toward the surface 15a of the support table 15, clamps the flexographic printing plate original 60 between the pressure plate 74 and the surface 15a of the support table 15, and fixes the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate original 60.

[0204] Next, with the rear end 60g of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 fixed, step S20 is performed. Next, development is performed to remove the unexposed portion of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and obtain the image portion as the exposed portion (step S22). Thereafter, step S24 (inspection process) is performed. As described above, in step S24, it is determined whether appropriate development has been performed or whether inappropriate development has been performed. If appropriate development has been performed, the method for manufacturing the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 ends.

[0205] On the other hand, when development is inappropriate, as described above, for example, re-plate making is performed, or additional development is performed on the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 that has been developed once.

[0206] Hereinafter, each structure of the cleaning device will be described.

[0207] <Brush>

[0208] The brush 51 is used to remove unexposed portions (not shown) of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and perform development. For example, the brush 51 is immersed in developer solution Q and positioned on the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 in the conveyance direction D within the developer tank 13. After the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is conveyed into the developer tank 13, the bristles 51b of the brush 51 are brought into contact with the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. The brush 51 is then moved by the motor 52 to rub the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, thereby removing unexposed portions (not shown) of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 and performing development. During this development process, waste developer solution is generated.

[0209] Since the brush 51 is immersed in the developer Q, the developer Q adhering to the brush 51 does not dry up, and the unexposed portion removed by the brush 51 is prevented from adhering to the brush 51 as development residue.

[0210] When the area of ​​the brush 51 projected onto the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is smaller than the area of ​​the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, development is performed by partially contacting the brush 51 relative to the total width of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. During development, since the brush 51 is small, the brush 51 is moved, for example, in the transport direction D and the direction Dw as described above so that the brush 51 uniformly rubs the entire surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. However, a configuration in which the brush 51 is moved only in the direction Dw is also possible.

[0211] The movement path of the brush 51 is predetermined based on the size of the brush 51, the size of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, the conveying speed, etc. Thus, the movement path of the brush 51 is pre-programmed in the drive unit, and the brush 51 can be moved along the movement path by the drive unit according to the program to perform development.

[0212] As described above, a brush called a cup brush can be used as the brush 51. A cup brush is smaller than the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. In this case, if the cup brush base is circular, the diameter is preferably 30 mm to 500 mm, more preferably 100 mm to 400 mm, and most preferably 200 mm to 400 mm.

[0213] When the cup brush base has a brush shape other than a circle, the circle-equivalent diameter, that is, the diameter corresponding to the brush area, is used as the diameter of the outer circle of the base.

[0214] The cup brush rotates to perform development. The rotation speed of the cup brush is preferably 10 rpm (revolutions per minute) to 2000 rpm, more preferably 20 to 800 rpm, and even more preferably 30 to 200 rpm.

[0215] By increasing the rotation speed of the cup brush to increase the rotation speed, as described above, the development speed can be increased, and the development uniformity can also be improved.

[0216] The mechanism of developer residue adhesion is presumed to be as follows: during development, developer residue accumulates within the cup brush and is transferred to the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 at some point, thereby adhering thereto. Therefore, it is necessary to effectively discharge developer residue from within the cup brush to the outside. Therefore, if the cup brush rotates at a high speed, the developer within the cup brush is easily discharged to the outside due to the rotation, effectively discharging developer residue from within the cup brush to the outside.

[0217] Furthermore, the rotation speed of the cup brush is not limited to a fixed value but may be a variable value. When the rotation speed of the cup brush is variable, for example, the rotation speed from the start to the end of development may be predetermined and development may be performed at the determined rotation speed.

[0218] The base of the brush 51 is a base for fixing the bristles. For example, the bristles can be embedded in bundles. The base is not particularly limited as long as it can hold the bristles and is not deteriorated by the developer Q.

[0219] Furthermore, the material of the bristles of the brush 51 is not particularly limited. For example, known materials used in the development of the flexographic printing plate original 60, such as nylon 6,6, nylon 610, nylon 612, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), can be appropriately utilized.

[0220] In addition, as the material of the bristles of the brush 51, for example, natural fibers such as palm, metal, polyamide, polyester, vinyl chloride, vinylidene chloride, polyimide, polyacrylonitrile, etc. can be preferably used as long as the brush can be made into a fibrous shape.

[0221] The fiber diameter of the bristles of the brush is preferably about 10μ to 1mm, and can be implanted in bundles or individually implanted within a few pieces. The implantation interval is preferably about 1 to 20mm. When implanted in a bundle, the diameter of the bundle is preferably about 1 to 10mm. In addition, the length of the bristles of the brush is preferably about 2 to 50mm, more preferably 5 to 25mm. If the length of the bristles of the brush is 5 to 25mm, it can pass through the front end guide 30 for transportation. In addition, the force of the brush is enhanced, independent small dot performance can be obtained, and the development speed is also faster.

[0222] In addition, the length of the bristles in one brush 51 may be different, and the bristles in the center portion are preferably longer. Furthermore, the thickness of the bristles in one brush 51 may be different, and the density of the bristles in one brush 51 may be different.

[0223] Furthermore, if the bristles of the brush are made of a material to which fine abrasive materials such as aluminum oxide or silicon carbide are added, the development speed can be increased in the first half of the development process, thereby shortening the development processing time. The bristles to which abrasive materials are added can use wavy bristles called wavy bristles instead of straight bristles. By adding abrasive materials, not only can the wear of the brush be reduced, but the service life of the brush can also be extended. Examples of commercially available bristle materials include SUNGRID (trade name) from ASAHI KASEI ADVANCE CORPORATION, Toregrid (trade name) from Toray Industries, Inc., and Tynex (trade name) from DuPont de Nemours, Inc.

[0224] The bristles of the cup brush are embedded in a base in bundles. Bristles are provided in areas other than those within a radius of 10 mm relative to the center of the base. Specifically, it is preferred that bristles be absent from an area within a radius of 10 mm relative to the rotation axis, while bristles be provided in areas other than that area. Thus, the cup brush preferably has no bristles within an area within a radius of 10 mm relative to the rotation axis, while bristles are provided in areas with a radius exceeding 10 mm.

[0225] In the cup brush, it is preferable to provide bristles within a region with a radius of 10 mm or less because this facilitates discharge of development residues during development and also increases the rotation speed, thereby achieving independent small dot performance.

[0226] In order to maintain the development speed, the cup brush preferably has bristles arranged on 30% or more of the base. The case where bristles are arranged on 30% or more of the base of the cup brush is referred to as having a 30% area of ​​bristles.

[0227] The cup brush's rotation axis rotates while passing through the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60. In this case, when the angle θ formed by the rotation axis with respect to the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is set to be 30°≤θ≤90°, more preferably 45°≤θ≤90°, and most preferably 60°≤θ≤90°. By setting the angle θ to 60°≤θ≤90°, the cup brush can be brought into uniform contact with the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60, and development can be performed even with increased cup brush pressure. Therefore, both development uniformity and development speed can be achieved. In this manner, the cup brush's rotation axis is most preferably perpendicular to the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60.

[0228] Angle θ is obtained as follows. First, an image of a cup brush placed on the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is captured. From the image, a line corresponding to the cup brush's rotation axis and a line corresponding to the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 are obtained. Next, the angle formed by these two lines is calculated. This provides the angle θ.

[0229] In addition, the state in which the rotation axis of the cup brush passes through the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate original 60 refers to the state of the surface passing through the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate original 60 when the rotation axis or the rotation axis is extended, or the state of the surface after the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate original 60 is unfolded, indicating the configuration relationship between the cup brush and the flexographic printing plate original 60.

[0230] Therefore, the rotation axis of the cup brush may not actually pass through the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 depending on the inclination of the rotation axis. However, the rotation axis of the cup brush is not limited to actually passing through the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 as described above.

[0231] (Flushing section)

[0232] The cleaning device 10 may also have a structure including a flushing unit (not shown).

[0233] The rinsing section uses a rinse liquid such as a developer to remove residual latex components, rubber components, and the like remaining on the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 after development has been completed and removed from the developing tank 13. The process of removing residual latex components, rubber components, and the like remaining on the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 using a rinse liquid such as a developer in the rinsing section is referred to as a rinse step.

[0234] For example, the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 after development is transported from the developing tank 13 to the outside of the developing tank 13 and processed in the rinsing section.

[0235] The flushing unit includes a flushing liquid supply unit and a liquid discharge nozzle.

[0236] The rinsing section sprays rinsing liquid from the rinsing liquid supply section, for example, in a spray form, onto the surface 60a of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 to rinse away the above-mentioned residue. For example, the development waste liquid supplied from the rinsing liquid supply section and the above-mentioned residue washed away are accumulated in the developer tank 13.

[0237] The rinsing section is preferably configured to supply rinsing liquid to the film of developer remaining on the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 after development has been removed from the developer tank 13. By allowing the used rinsing liquid supplied from the rinsing section to flow into the developer tank 13, the overall amount of waste liquid can be reduced. The effect of reducing waste liquid is particularly significant when the transport path is vertical. Therefore, during the rinsing step, it is also preferable to allow the used rinsing liquid to flow into the developer tank 13.

[0238] Figure 1 The cleaning device 10 shown is a structure that conveys the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 horizontally along the conveying direction D. However, the structure of the cleaning device is not limited to this. For example, it can also be applied to the vertical conveying type cleaning device described in International Publication No. 2022 / 024724, which conveys the flexographic printing plate precursor perpendicularly relative to the liquid level of the developer corresponding to the developer. In addition, it can be applied to a device that fixes the printing plate to a flat plate called a fixture with an adhesive or the like for development, and it can also be applied to a cleaning device that develops the flexographic printing plate precursor by winding it around a rotating drum and fixing it. In addition, it can also be applied to a flip-top (batch processing) cleaning device.

[0239] (Flexographic printing plate original)

[0240] The flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is used to form a flexographic printing plate used in flexographic printing. Its structure is not particularly limited. The flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is as thin as a few millimeters and is flexible. Flexibility refers to the ability to bend under external force and then return to its original state after the force is removed. Examples of the size of the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 include 800 mm × 1200 mm and 1050 mm × 1500 mm.

[0241] For example, the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is a plate material that can be developed with an aqueous developer containing water as a main component, and is called a water-developable flexographic printing plate precursor. In this case, the developer is an aqueous developer.

[0242] The flexographic printing plate precursor 60 may be a known flexographic printing plate precursor that can be developed with an aqueous developer. The flexographic printing plate precursor 60 may be a flexographic plate material suitable for CTP (Computer to Plate) with a black layer coated on its surface.

[0243] The flexographic printing plate precursor 60 is not limited to one that can be developed with an aqueous developer containing water as a main component, and may be one that can be developed with a developer using an organic solvent, for example.

[0244] In this case, as the flexographic printing plate precursor 60 , for example, a flexographic printing plate precursor including a photopolymerizable layer, an elastomer layer, and an actinic radiation opaque material capable of forming an in-situ mask can be used.

[0245] The photopolymerizable layer is sensitive to actinic radiation and contains a binder, a monomer, and a photoinitiator. The elastomeric layer contains at least an elastomeric binder and a particulate substance. An actinic radiation-opaque material is present on the elastomeric layer on the side opposite the photopolymerizable layer. The in-situ mask is formed by imagewise exposing the actinic radiation-opaque material to laser radiation, which is ablated or vaporized from a flexographic printing plate precursor, leaving only the portion of the radiation-opaque layer that was not removed from the flexographic printing plate precursor on the flexographic printing plate precursor.

[0246] As the photopolymerizable layer, the elastic layer, and the actinic ray opaque material, for example, materials described in paragraphs 0017 to 0063 of JP-A-2015-514232 can be used, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0247] The developer will be described below. As the developer, a developer corresponding to the flexographic printing plate precursor can be used.

[0248] <Developer>

[0249] For example, an aqueous cleaning solution is used as a developer. The aqueous cleaning solution may be a liquid consisting solely of water, or may be an aqueous solution containing 50% or more of water by mass and containing a water-soluble compound. Examples of the water-soluble compound include surfactants, acids, and alkalis. The aqueous cleaning solution described above is equivalent to an aqueous developer.

[0250] Examples of the surfactant include anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, and amphoteric surfactants. Among them, anionic surfactants are preferred.

[0251] Specific examples of the anionic surfactant include aliphatic carboxylates such as sodium laurate and sodium oleate; higher alcohol sulfates such as sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium cetyl sulfate, and sodium oleyl sulfate; polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfates such as sodium polyoxyethylene lauryl ether sulfate; polyoxyethylene alkyl allyl ether sulfates such as sodium polyoxyethylene octylphenyl ether sulfate and sodium polyoxyethylene nonylphenyl ether sulfate; alkyl sulfonates such as alkyl diphenyl ether disulfonate, sodium dodecylsulfonate, and sodium dialkylsulfosuccinate; alkyl allyl sulfonates such as alkyl disulfonate, sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate, sodium dibutylnaphthalenesulfonate, and sodium triisopropylnaphthalenesulfonate; higher alcohol phosphates such as disodium lauryl phosphate monoester and sodium lauryl phosphate diester; and polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphates such as disodium polyoxyethylene lauryl ether phosphate monoester and sodium polyoxyethylene lauryl ether phosphate diester. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Furthermore, although sodium salt is mentioned as a specific example, the present invention is not particularly limited to sodium salt, and the same effect can be obtained even with calcium salt, ammonium salt, or the like.

[0252] Specific examples of the nonionic surfactant include polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers such as polyoxyethylene oleyl ether and polyoxyethylene lauryl ether, polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ethers such as polyoxyethylene nonylphenyl ether and polyoxyethylene octylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene glycols, mono- and diesters of fatty acids with polyethylene glycol such as polyethylene glycol monostearate, polyethylene glycol monooleate or polyethylene glycol dilaurate, esters of fatty acids with sorbitan such as sorbitan monolaurate or sorbitan monooleate, and polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monostearate or polyoxyethylene sorbitan trilaurate. Esters of adducts and fatty acids, esters of fatty acids and sorbitol such as sorbitol monopalmitate or sorbitol dilaurate, esters of polyoxyethylene adducts of sorbitol and fatty acids such as polyoxyethylene sorbitol monostearate or polyoxyethylene sorbitol dioleate, esters of fatty acids and pentaerythritol such as pentaerythritol monostearate, esters of fatty acids and glycerol such as glycerol monolaurate, fatty acid alkanolamides such as lauric acid diethanolamide or lauric acid monoethanolamide, amine oxides such as lauryl dimethylamine oxide, fatty acid alkanolamines such as stearyl diethanolamine, polyoxyethylene alkylamines, triethanolamine fatty acid esters, phosphates, carbonates, silicates, etc. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0253] Specific examples of the cationic surfactant include primary, secondary, and tertiary amine salts such as monostearylammonium chloride, distearyllammonium chloride, and tristearylammonium chloride; quaternary ammonium salts such as stearyltrimethylammonium chloride, distearyldimethylammonium chloride, and stearyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride; alkylpyridinium salts such as N-hexadecylpyridinium chloride and N-stearylpyridinium chloride; N,N-dialkylmorpholinium salts; fatty acid amide salts of polyethylene polyamine; acetates of urea compounds of amides of aminoethylethanolamine and stearic acid; and 2-alkyl-1-hydroxyethylimidazolinium chloride. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0254] Specific examples of amphoteric surfactants include amino acid-type surfactants such as sodium laurylamine propionate, betaine-type surfactants such as lauryl dimethyl betaine and lauryl dihydroxyethyl betaine, sulfobetaine-type surfactants such as stearyl dimethyl sulfoethylene ammonium betaine, imidazolinium betaine-type surfactants, and lecithin. These surfactants may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0255] Specific examples of the acid include inorganic acids and organic acids such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, formic acid, acetic acid, oxalic acid, succinic acid, citric acid, malic acid, maleic acid, and p-toluenesulfonic acid.

[0256] Specific examples of the base include lithium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, calcium oxide, sodium carbonate, sodium hydrogen carbonate, and calcium carbonate.

[0257] In addition, the developer solution mainly depends on the chemical properties of the photopolymerizable material to be removed. The developer solution is not particularly limited to the above-mentioned aqueous cleaning solution. The developer solution can also be an organic solvent, an aqueous solution, a semi-aqueous solution, or water. Suitable organic solvent developers include aromatic or aliphatic hydrocarbons, aliphatic or aromatic halogenated hydrocarbon solvents, or mixtures of such solvents with suitable alcohols. Another organic solvent developer solution is disclosed in the specification of British Patent Application Publication No. 3828551. Suitable semi-aqueous developers generally contain water, a water-miscible organic solvent, and an alkaline substance. Suitable aqueous developers generally contain water and an alkaline substance. Another suitable combination of aqueous developers is described in the specification of U.S. Patent No. 3,796,602.

[0258] When the unexposed portion is subjected to solvent development using an organic solvent developer, preferred examples of the developing solvent include esters such as heptyl acetate and ethyl 3-methoxybutyrate; hydrocarbons such as petroleum fractions, toluene, and decahydronaphthalene; solvents obtained by mixing alcohols such as propanol, butanol, and pentanol with chlorinated organic solvents such as tetrachloroethylene; water; ethers such as polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers; and the like.

[0259] <Development waste liquid>

[0260] The developer waste liquid is a developer containing solid matter generated by removing the unexposed portion of the flexographic printing plate precursor after imagewise exposure. The term "containing solid matter" in the developer containing solid matter means that the solid matter is dissolved or dispersed.

[0261] The developer waste liquid is not particularly limited as long as it contains a solid substance produced by removing the unexposed portions of the flexographic printing plate precursor by development using the aforementioned developer, that is, a developer containing an uncured resin. However, the developer waste liquid may also include a developer waste liquid containing a conventionally known photosensitive resin composition used to form a general photosensitive resin layer.

[0262] The uncured resin removed by development may be the photosensitive resin contained in the photosensitive resin composition.

[0263] Furthermore, it is preferable to treat development waste liquid generated during development by the LAM (Laser Ablation Masking) method. Therefore, the uncured resin removed by development is preferably the photosensitive resin contained in the photosensitive resin composition.

[0264] Furthermore, as such a photosensitive resin composition, for example, in addition to the photosensitive resin, there can also be mentioned a composition containing a polymerization initiator, a polymerizable compound, a polymerization inhibitor, and a plasticizer, etc. Therefore, the developer waste liquid can also contain a polymerization initiator, a polymerizable compound, a polymerization inhibitor and a plasticizer, etc. in addition to the uncured resin.

[0265] The present invention is basically constructed as described above. The cleaning device and the method for manufacturing a flexographic printing plate precursor of the present invention have been described in detail above, but the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and various improvements or modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0266] Explanation of symbols

[0267] 10-cleaning device, 12-station, 12a-surface, 13-developing tank, 13b-bottom surface, 14-discharging station, 14a, 15a-surface, 15-support table, 16-transportation part, 20-frame, 20a, 20b-components, 21-guide rail, 22-ball screw, 24-driving part, 25-measuring part, 26-adjusting part, 27-plate position adjustment part, 27a-arm, 30-front end guide, 30a-housing, 30b-arm, 30c-supporting part, 32-plate fixing part, 32a-base, 32b-pin, 33a-base, 40-punching part, 41-driving part, 42-pressing part, 43-recess, 44-plate loading part, 4 8-control unit, 49-memory, 50-developing unit, 51-brush, 51a-base, 51b-bristles, 52-motor, 53-height position adjustment unit, 54-distance sensor, 56-inspection unit, 57-adjustment unit, 60-flexographic printing plate original, 60a-surface, 60b-back, 60c-side, 60d-edge, 60e-corner, 60f-front end, 60g-rear end, 70, 71-rear end pressing unit, 72-base, 73-support unit, 73a-end, 74-pressing plate, D-conveying direction, DL-opposite direction, Dw-direction, P1, P2-conveying position, Pe-position, Ps-starting position, Q-developer.

Claims

1. A cleaning device for developing an image-wise exposed flexographic printing plate precursor using a developer, the cleaning device comprising: a work station for mounting the flexographic printing plate precursor; and The measuring unit measures at least one of a size and a thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor and a position of the flexographic printing plate precursor on the workstation.

2. The cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein: The measuring section includes a camera for photographing the flexographic printing plate precursor.

3. The cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein: The cleaning device has a plate position adjustment unit, which changes the position of the flexographic printing plate original on the work station based on at least one of the size and thickness of the flexographic printing plate original measured by the measuring unit and the position of the flexographic printing plate original on the work station.

4. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The cleaning device includes a punching unit that punches a leading end portion of the flexographic printing plate precursor.

5. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The cleaning device includes a plate mounting portion, which mounts a front end guide on the flexographic printing plate original at the work station.

6. The cleaning device according to claim 5, wherein: The front end guide is telescopic in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the workstation.

7. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The flexographic printing plate precursor is developed in a developing tank using the developer, The cleaning device includes a conveying portion that positions the conveying position of the flexographic printing plate precursor in the developing tank at a predetermined position in the conveying direction of the flexographic printing plate precursor during the development.

8. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The cleaning device includes a developing section that uses the developer to remove unexposed portions of the flexographic printing plate precursor to perform the development. The developing section includes a brush used in the development.

9. The cleaning device according to claim 8, wherein: The cleaning device includes a height adjustment portion for adjusting the position of the brush of the developing portion relative to the developing tank. The height position adjustment section adjusts the position of the brush relative to the flexographic printing plate precursor based on the thickness of the flexographic printing plate precursor obtained by the measurement section.

10. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The cleaning device includes an inspection section that measures the surface shape of the flexographic printing plate precursor after development and inspects a development state.

11. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The cleaning device includes an adjustment portion for adjusting a position of the measuring portion.

12. The cleaning device according to claim 8, wherein: The cleaning device includes a rear end pressing portion that presses the rear end of the flexographic printing plate precursor. 13 . A method for producing a flexographic printing plate precursor, comprising using the cleaning device according to claim 1 .

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