Sheet processing system

Abstract

To improve the efficiency of using the sheets that are processed by the sheet processing system. [Solution] The sheet processing system includes a reading unit that reads the positions of multiple registration marks on a sheet, a first processing unit, and a second processing unit. Both the first and second processing units perform first and second processing, respectively, on processing positions determined based on the positions of the multiple registration marks read by the reading unit. At least a portion of the multiple registration marks are used for both determining the processing positions for the first processing and determining the processing positions for the second processing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sheet processing system.

[0002] There is known a sheet processing system that reads the position of a registration mark pre-printed on a sheet and performs processing on a processing position determined based on the read position of the registration mark.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] On a sheet to be processed, registration marks for determining the positions for performing the processing are pre-printed. On the other hand, cases where a product is completed with only one type of processing are rare, and in many cases, it is necessary to perform a plurality of types of processing using a plurality of devices. Since the registration marks are different for each device, it is necessary to pre-print all the registration marks corresponding to each of the devices to be used in the blank area on the sheet. Therefore, a large blank area must be taken, and the utilization efficiency of the sheet deteriorates.

[0005] The present invention has been made in such a situation, and an exemplary object of one aspect thereof is to provide a sheet processing system that can efficiently use sheets.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, a sheet processing system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a reading unit that reads the positions of a plurality of registration marks on a sheet, a first processing unit that performs a first processing on processing positions determined based on the positions of the plurality of registration marks read by the reading unit, and a second processing unit that performs a second processing on processing positions determined based on the positions of the plurality of registration marks read by the reading unit, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of registration marks is used for both determining the processing position for the first processing and determining the processing position for the second processing. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, the utilization efficiency of the sheet being processed by the sheet processing apparatus can be increased. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a schematic front view showing the printing system of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic top view illustrating the printing system of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows the sheet SH1 applied to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows varnish image 300 corresponding to sheet SH1. [Figure 5] This figure shows cut image 400 corresponding to sheet SH1. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows the procedure for sheet processing performed by the printing system 10. [Figure 7] This figure shows the finished product created from sheet SH1 through the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 6. [Figure 8] This is a schematic front view showing the printing system of the second embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a schematic top view illustrating the printing system of the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure shows the sheet SH2 applied to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure shows varnish image 600 corresponding to sheet SH2. [Figure 12] This figure shows the die-cutting die 124 corresponding to sheet SH2. [Figure 13] This flowchart shows the procedure for sheet processing performed by the printing system 11. [Figure 14] This figure shows the carton blank created from sheet SH2 through the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 13. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, based on preferred embodiments. The embodiments are illustrative and not limiting, and not all features or combinations thereof described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the invention. The same or equivalent components, members, and processes shown in each drawing will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted as appropriate.

[0010] (First Embodiment) A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Figures 1 and 2 are schematic diagrams showing a printing system (sheet processing device) 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 is a side view, and Figure 2 is a top view. The printing system 10 is a device that performs a predetermined process (printing) on ​​a sheet while conveying the sheet. The sheet material can be various, such as paper, cloth, resin, or metal. Hereafter, the direction in which the sheet is conveyed (from right to left in Figures 1 and 2) will be called the conveying direction Y, and the direction perpendicular to the conveying direction Y (the direction perpendicular to the paper surface in Figure 1 and the vertical direction in Figure 2) will be called the width direction X.

[0011] The printing system 10 includes a feeding device 12 that feeds sheets one by one, an adhesive coating device 14 that applies adhesive to the sheets fed one by one, a foil pressing device 16 that performs foil pressing by transferring foil to the adhesive on the sheet using the tackiness of the adhesive, a cutting device 17 that performs a cutting process of cutting or half-cutting the sheet along a predetermined cut line based on image data, a stacker 18 that accumulates the sheets, and a control device 20 that integrally controls the printing system 10. The feeding device 12, the adhesive coating device 14, the foil pressing device 16, the cutting device 17, and the stacker 18 are arranged in a row in this order from the upstream side (the right side in FIGS. 1 and 2) in the conveying direction Y. The control device 20 is connected to the feeding device 12, the adhesive coating device 14, the foil pressing device 16, the cutting device 17, and the stacker 18 via a network 2.

[0012] The feeding device 12 includes a feeder 22, a corona treatment unit 26, and an alignment unit 24. The feeder 22 includes a table 28 and a suction head 30. Sheets are stacked on the table 28. The table 28 is configured to be able to move up and down. The suction head 30 feeds out the sheets stacked on the table 28 one by one in order from above.

[0013] The corona treatment unit 26 (surface modification unit) includes an electrode 36 (applied electrode) disposed above the conveyance path 34 and a dielectric roller 38 (opposing electrode) disposed below the conveyance path 34 so as to face the electrode 36 vertically. The corona treatment unit 26 performs surface modification of the sheet fed by the feeder 22 by corona discharge between the electrode 36 and the dielectric roller 38. Specifically, hydrophilic groups are generated on the surface of the sheet to improve the wettability. When the sheet is conveyed in a state of being adsorbed to the conveyance path 34 by the air suction unit 40, the distance between the electrode 36 and the sheet becomes constant, and the corona discharge becomes stable. The air suction unit 40 generates negative pressure by disposing one of the suction ports of an exhaust blower (not shown), but it may be configured to generate negative pressure by disposing a suction fan.

[0014] The alignment unit 24 corrects the skew of the sheet fed out by the feeder 22 and aligns the position in the width direction X by abutting against the alignment reference guide 32.

[0015] The varnish coating device 14 includes a sheet sensor 42, a pair of image sensors 44, at least one varnish discharge unit 46, an ultraviolet lamp 48 for semi-curing, and an ultraviolet lamp 50 for full-curing. The image sensor 44 is a sensor that can image a predetermined region on the sheet and acquire the captured image. In this embodiment, a CMOS sensor is used, but it is not limited thereto, and a CCD sensor or a sensor using other imaging elements may be used. The pair of image sensors 44, the varnish discharge unit 46, the ultraviolet lamp 48 for semi-curing, and the ultraviolet lamp 50 for full-curing are arranged in this order from the upstream side. In the illustrated example, the varnish coating device 14 includes three varnish discharge units 46, but it is not limited thereto. The varnish coating device 14 may include one varnish discharge unit 46 extending over the entire width direction X, or may include two or four or more varnish discharge units 46. The ultraviolet lamp 48 for semi-curing and the ultraviolet lamp 50 for full-curing use LEDs that irradiate ultraviolet rays, but other light sources such as bulbs and fluorescent lamps may be used as long as they irradiate ultraviolet rays. It is desirable that the light source is adjustable in output.

[0016] The sheet sensor 42 detects the sheet fed from the feeding device 12.

[0017] The varnish discharge unit 46 is a line-type inkjet head without particular limitation. The varnish discharge unit 46 discharges ultraviolet-curable varnish according to the varnish discharge data triggered by the detection of the leading edge of the sheet by the sheet sensor 42, and applies ultraviolet-curable varnish to the sheet. The varnish discharge data is data indicating where to apply the varnish on the sheet.

[0018] The sheets fed by the feeding device 12 have a background image and a number of registration marks that serve as a reference for identifying the position of the background image printed on them in advance. The varnish application device 14 applies varnish to the background image in accordance with varnish discharge data that defines the areas on the sheet to be varnished, so as to have a predetermined relationship with the background image. For example, the varnish may be applied so as to overlap the background image.

[0019] In this case, the background image of the sheet may be misaligned or distorted. Therefore, when applying varnish in a manner that has a predetermined relationship with the background image, it is necessary to correct the varnish ejection data to account for any misalignment or distortion. In this embodiment, the image sensor 44 captures an image of the sheet triggered by the detection of the sheet by the sheet sensor 42, and the control device 20 analyzes the image data captured by the image sensor 44 and corrects the varnish ejection data of the area surrounded by the registration marks based on the difference between the theoretical position of the multiple registration marks and the actual position. This correction method will be described later.

[0020] The semi-curing UV lamp 48 irradiates the varnish on the sheet with relatively weak ultraviolet light, semi-curing the varnish. Semi-curing means lightly curing the varnish to the extent that its fluidity is reduced but it is not completely cured (for example, to a state where it can be further cured). By semi-curing at least the surface of the varnish, the tackiness of the varnish can be maintained while preventing the varnish from flowing on the sheet and stabilizing its position on the sheet. The semi-cured varnish is fully cured in the foil stamping device 16. If foil is not to be transferred to the sheet (foil stamping is not performed), the semi-curing UV lamp 48 is usually turned off. However, the semi-curing UV lamp 48 may be used even when foil stamping is not performed. For example, if the varnish applied to the sheet is prone to bleeding, the semi-curing UV lamp 48 is turned on to semi-cure at least the surface of the varnish. This can suppress the bleeding of the varnish.

[0021] The UV curing lamp 50 irradiates the varnish applied to the sheet with ultraviolet light, causing the varnish to fully harden. When transferring foil to the sheet (foil stamping), the UV curing lamp 50 should be turned off.

[0022] In other words, when foil stamping is performed on a sheet, the varnish is partially cured by the semi-curing UV lamp 48, and the semi-cured varnish is fully cured by the foil stamping UV lamp 66 of the foil stamping device 16. In this case, the full-curing UV lamp 50 is turned off. When foil stamping is not performed on the sheet, i.e., when only varnish is applied to the sheet, the varnish is fully cured by the full-curing UV lamp 50. In this case, the semi-curing UV lamp 48 and the foil stamping UV lamp 66 of the foil stamping device 16 are turned off. As mentioned above, the semi-curing UV lamp 48 may be turned on even when foil stamping is not performed. In addition, an LED that emits ultraviolet light is used as the light source for the foil stamping UV lamp 66, but other light sources that emit ultraviolet light may also be used.

[0023] In the area facing the varnish dispensing section 46, the semi-curing ultraviolet lamp 48, and the full-curing ultraviolet lamp 50, the sheet is carried by adsorption onto the circumferential belt 51. Methods for adsorption onto the circumferential belt 51 include a suction belt method that sucks air in through an opening in the circumferential belt 51, and an electrostatic method that charges the sheet with static electricity.

[0024] Although Figure 1 depicts the sheet being transported on a single circular belt in the areas facing the varnish dispensing unit 46, the semi-curing UV lamp 48, and the main curing UV lamp 50, the areas facing the varnish dispensing unit 46, the semi-curing UV lamp 48, and the main curing UV lamp 50 may be configured so that all or part of each area is transported on separate circular belts.

[0025] The foil stamping device 16 transports the web (transfer web) 52 roll-to-roll. The web 52 is unwound from the unwinding roll 74, transported along a predetermined path, and then wound onto the take-up roll 76. In this embodiment, the web 52 is a foil-holding film in which foil, such as metal foil, is held (laminated) on a long film (base sheet). The foil stamping device 16 brings the web 52 into contact with the sheet while transporting it. Due to its tackiness, the foil held by the web 52 adheres to the semi-cured varnish on the sheet. In this state, that is, with the foil held by the web 52 and adhered to the semi-cured varnish, the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 irradiates the varnish with ultraviolet light to fully cure the varnish. Once the varnish is fully cured, the force with which the fully cured varnish adheres to the foil becomes stronger than the force with which the web 52 holds the foil. In this state, when the sheet is transported and separated from the web 52, the foil held by the web 52 is transferred to the varnished portion on the sheet.

[0026] The cutting device 17 cuts or half-cuts the sheet based on the cut data. The cut data includes cut lines indicating the lines to be cut.

[0027] The cutting device 17 includes a carriage 90, a cutting head 92 supported by the carriage 90, a support member 98 supporting the cutting head 92, rails 96 supporting both ends of the support member 98 in the width direction X, a conveyor belt 94 that conveys the sheet in the conveying direction Y while adhering to its upper surface, a sheet sensor 100, and a pair of image sensors 102.

[0028] Furthermore, a suction chamber (not shown) with an opening on its upper surface is provided inside the circumferential path of the conveyor belt 94. A negative pressure is created inside the suction chamber by a fan or the like, and air is drawn in through the opening on the upper surface. The conveyor belt 94 is driven to circulate so that the sheet is attracted to its upper surface by this suction air and conveyed in the conveying direction Y. The conveyor belt 94 is made of a nonwoven fabric or the like that can maintain its conveying function while receiving the cutting edge of the cutter during the cutting process, and can also allow the suction air to pass through.

[0029] The rail 96 supports both ends of the support member 98 in the width direction X so as to be movable along the conveying direction Y. The support member 98 supports the carriage 90 so as to be movable along the width direction X. Therefore, the carriage 90 is movable above the upper surface of the conveying belt 94 and in a plane parallel to the upper surface, and the cutting head 92 supported by the carriage 90 can move freely on the sheet on the conveying belt 94.

[0030] The cutting head 92 has a cutter capable of cutting a sheet being transported on the conveyor belt 94. By switching the height position of the cutter, it is possible to perform a cutting process that completely cuts the sheet and a half-cut process that cuts only the upper part of the sheet in the thickness direction.

[0031] The sheet sensor 100 detects the sheet sent from the foil stamping device 16. The control device 20, triggered by the detection of the leading edge of the sheet by the sheet sensor 100, drives the carriage 90 and support member 98 according to the cut data and causes the cutting head 92 to scan along the cut line included in the cut data.

[0032] The image sensor 102, like the image sensor 44 in the varnish coating apparatus 14, is a sensor capable of imaging a predetermined area on a sheet and acquiring the image. In this embodiment, a CMOS sensor is used, but it is not limited to this, and a CCD sensor or a sensor using other image sensors may also be used. Similar to the image sensor 44, the image sensor 102 images the sheet triggered by the detection of the sheet by the sheet sensor 100, and the control device 20 analyzes the image data from the image sensor 102 and corrects the cut data of the area surrounded by registration marks based on the difference from the theoretical position of multiple registration marks. This correction method will be described later.

[0033] The stacker 18 stores the sheets discharged from the foil stamping machine 16.

[0034] The control device 20 is, for example, an information processing terminal such as a PC. The control device 20 accepts input regarding the definition of a print job. The control device 20 may also display a predetermined job management screen and accept input regarding the job definition through that job management screen. The job definition includes, for example, the number of sheets to be printed (number of copies), the sheet size of the sheets to be printed, varnish ejection data, whether or not corona treatment is performed, whether or not foil stamping is performed, adjustment of the pinning strength (degree of hardening of semi-hardened material), whether or not cutting is performed, and the selection of whether or not to cut or half-cut. Based on the job definition, the control device 20 controls the feeding device 12, the varnish application device 14, the foil stamping device 16, and the cutting device 17.

[0035] The above is the basic configuration of the printing system 10.

[0036] As a variation, the printing system 10 may be equipped with a printer that prints a background image and registration marks on sheets, instead of the feeding device 12, and the sheets may be fed one by one from the printer.

[0037] Figure 3 shows sheet SH1 applied to this embodiment. Hereinafter, the longitudinal direction of sheet SH1 and the varnish image 300, cut image 400, sheet SH2, and varnish image 600, which will be described later, will be referred to as the P1 direction, and the short direction as the P2 direction. The position on each sheet or each image is called a coordinate. The upper left corner of the figure is taken as the origin of the coordinates P0, and the coordinates are shown as the number of pixels (P1, P2) in the P1 and P2 directions from the origin P0 as needed.

[0038] Sheet SH1 has 16 objects OB11 to OB26 (hereinafter collectively referred to as object OB1) and 10 registration marks RG1 to RG10 (hereinafter collectively referred to as registration marks RG) printed on it. The registration marks RG are shaped like a cross superimposed on a circle. That is, they are shaped in a way that allows the center coordinates of the cross to be identified. Other shapes are also acceptable as long as the coordinates can be identified. For example, a circle may also be used. Hereafter, when referring to the coordinates of a registration mark, it refers to the center coordinates of the cross of that registration mark.

[0039] A pair of registration marks RG1 and RG2 are provided near both ends in the P2 direction near the leading edge of sheet SH1 (hereinafter also referred to as registration mark pair RG1-2; the same applies to other registration mark pairs spaced apart in the P2 direction). Similarly, registration mark pair RG9-10 is provided near both ends in the P2 direction near the rear edge of sheet SH1, and three registration mark pairs RG3-4, RG5-6, and RG7-8 are provided near both ends in the P2 direction in the portion between registration mark pair RG1-2 and registration mark pair RG9-10.

[0040] Region AR1 is formed within the area enclosed by registration marks RG1, RG2, RG3, and RG4; Region AR2 is formed within the area enclosed by registration marks RG3, RG4, RG5, and RG6; Region AR3 is formed within the area enclosed by registration marks RG5, RG6, RG7, and RG8; and Region AR4 is formed within the area enclosed by registration marks RG7, RG8, RG9, and RG10 (hereinafter collectively referred to as Region AR). In Figure 3, the dashed lines indicate the boundaries of these regions (the same applies to Figures 4, 5, 10, and 11).

[0041] In other words, a background image is pre-printed on sheet SH1. The background image is printed by a printing device separate from the printing system 10, based on a background image file. The background image file includes the registration mark RG and object OB1. Therefore, the registration mark RG and object OB1 are printed simultaneously by the same printing device.

[0042] In the background image file, the coordinates in the P1 direction of registration marks RG1 and RG2 are identical. The same applies to each of the other registration marks RG3-4, RG5-6, RG7-8, and RG9-10. The center coordinates in the P2 direction of registration marks RG1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 are identical, as are the center coordinates in the P2 direction of registration marks RG2, 4, 6, 8, and 10.

[0043] Objects OB11-14 are located in region AR1, objects OB15-18 are located in region AR2, objects OB19-22 are located in region AR3, and objects OB23-26 are located in region AR4. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and object OB1 may span multiple regions AR.

[0044] Figure 4 shows a varnish image 300 corresponding to sheet SH1. The varnish image 300 is input to the printing system 10 by operator input or via wired or wireless communication lines, web lines, etc., and stored in the control device 20. The control device 20 sends the varnish image 300 to the varnish application device 14. The varnish application device 14 converts the varnish image 300 into varnish data that determines the discharge timing of each nozzle in the varnish discharge unit 46. Alternatively, the conversion from varnish image 300 to varnish data may be performed by the control device 20, and the varnish data may be sent to the varnish discharge unit 46.

[0045] Varnish image 300 contains 16 objects OBv11 to OBv26 (hereinafter collectively referred to as object OBv1) and 10 registration marks RGv1 to RGv10 (hereinafter collectively referred to as registration marks RGv). The registration marks RGv have the same shape as the registration marks RG of the background image printed on sheet SH1, but any shape is acceptable as long as the center coordinates can be identified. The coordinates of each registration mark RGv are the same as the registration marks RG of the background image. Therefore, four regions ARv1 to ARv4 are formed, corresponding to regions AR1 to AR4 of the background image.

[0046] Object OBv1 is the same shape as object OB1 in the background image, but with the outer ellipse removed. Otherwise, its shape and coordinates are identical to object OB1.

[0047] Figure 5 shows a cut image 400 corresponding to sheet SH1. The cut image 400 is input to the printing system 10 by operator input or via wired or wireless communication lines, web lines, etc., and stored in the control device 20. The control device 20 sends the cut image 400 to the cutting device 17. The cutting device 17 converts the cut image 400 into cut data, which is drive data for driving the support member 98 and carriage 90.

[0048] Cut image 400 contains 16 cut lines CL11 to CL26 (hereinafter collectively referred to as cut lines CL). Each of the cut lines CL11 to CL26 is formed in a position that encloses each of the objects OB11 to OB26. In addition, areas ARc1, ARc2, ARc3, and ARc4 are formed, corresponding to areas AR1, AR2, AR3, and AR4 of sheet SH1. However, cut image 400 does not include registration marks.

[0049] Varnish image 300 and cut image 400 are images that show the positions for the undercoat printing, varnishing, foil stamping, and cutting processes applied to the same sheet SH1, and therefore are the same size.

[0050] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the sheet processing procedure performed by the printing system 10 using these varnish images 300 and cut images 400.

[0051] Before sheet processing by the printing system 10 begins, the base image, varnish image 300, and cut image 400 are created in advance by a designer or the like, according to the desired output. The base image is then stored in a separate base image printing device, and the base image printing device prints the base image onto the sheet SH1.

[0052] In this embodiment, the background image printing device is an electrophotographic full-color printer, but is not limited to this. For example, monochrome printing may be used, and various printing methods such as inkjet, offset, and flexographic printing can be employed. Printing by the background image printing device yields a sheet SH1 with registration marks RG1 to RG10 and objects OB11 to OB26 printed on it. The operator loads the sheet SH1 with the background image printed on it into the feeder 12 of the printing system 10 beforehand. In this embodiment, the sheet SH1 is loaded so that the P1 direction is parallel to the transport direction Y.

[0053] The control device 20 of the printing system 10 identifies the varnish image 300 and cut image 400 to be processed (step S1). The varnish image 300 and cut image 400 are stored in the memory of the control device 20 in advance by the designer or operator. The operator selects the varnish image 300 and cut image 400 corresponding to the base image as the processing targets via an interface such as a PC that can communicate with the control device 20. The base image may also be stored in the memory of the control device 20 in advance and displayed as a reference image on a graphic interface such as a PC, or it may be possible to place or overlay it with the varnish image 300 and cut image 400. In this way, the operator can reliably select the varnish image 300 and cut image 400 corresponding to the base image.

[0054] The control device 20 performs image processing on the varnish image 300 to be processed and obtains the position (coordinates) of the registration marks RGv (step S2). Specifically, it identifies each registration mark RGv1 to RGv10 through image processing and identifies the coordinates (P1, P2) where their crosses intersect. The image processing methods used here include, but are not limited to, blob analysis, feature point extraction, brightness comparison, pattern matching, and shape dimension calculation comparison. The control device 20 stores the coordinates of the acquired registration marks RGv. Through this process, the shape of each region ARv is determined by the positions of the four identified registration marks RGv. In this embodiment, the shape of each region ARv1 to ARv4 is rectangular.

[0055] Image processing should not be performed on the entire varnish image 300, but only on the areas where the registration mark RGv should be present. In other words, for varnish image 300, processing should be performed on the areas near both ends in the P2 direction. Of course, it is also possible to perform the processing on the entire varnish image 300.

[0056] Details regarding the acquisition of the registration mark RGv position by image processing are as described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-111813.

[0057] In this embodiment, the varnish image 300 is processed, but a registration mark may be added to the cut image 400, and the cut image may be processed. Also, if the control device 20 stores a base image, the base image may be processed.

[0058] Next, the operator operates the start switch provided on the printing system 10, or performs a start operation on the interface connected to the control device 20. The control device 20 starts the operation of the printing system 10 in response to the operator's start operation (step S3).

[0059] When the printing system 10 starts, sheets SH1 are fed one by one from the feeder 12 (step S4). The fed sheets SH1 are sent to the corona processing unit 26, where corona processing is performed on the sheets SH1 to improve their wettability. Next, the sheets SH1 are sent to the alignment unit 24, where the right side (upper side in Figure 2) in the width direction X toward the transport direction Y of the sheets SH1, that is, the edge on the side where the origin P0 is located (hereinafter referred to as the reference edge), abuts against the alignment reference guide 32 (step S6). In other words, even if the sheets SH1 are skewed, this is corrected, and the position of the reference edge of the sheets SH1 in the width direction X becomes the position of the abutting surface of the alignment reference guide 32.

[0060] Next, sheet SH1 is transported in the transport direction Y and sent to the varnish coating device 14, where the leading edge is detected by the sheet sensor 42 (step S7). Sheet SH1 is transported further, and the image sensor 44 images the area on sheet SH1 that includes the registration mark RG (step S8). The imaging is triggered by the detection of the leading edge of the sheet by the sheet sensor 42 and is performed on the area on the sheet where the printed registration mark RG should be located. Whether or not the area to be imaged has arrived is determined by whether or not the transport amount of the circulating belt 51 has reached a predetermined value, triggered by the detection of the leading edge of the sheet by the sheet sensor 42. The transport amount of the circulating belt 51 is obtained from the count value of pulses emitted in accordance with the circulating movement of the circulating belt 51 from an optical encoder or the like provided in the drive mechanism of the circulating belt 51, or from the drive amount of the drive source.

[0061] The control device 20 analyzes the image captured by the image sensor 44, including the registration mark RG, identifies the position where the cross of the registration mark RG intersects, and calculates its coordinates (step S9). The coordinates in the P1 direction are calculated based on the image analysis results, taking into account the amount of transported by the circumferential belt 51 from the timing of detection of the leading edge of the sheet by the sheet sensor 42 until the image is captured, and the positional relationship between the sheet sensor 42 and the image sensor 44. The coordinates in the P2 direction are calculated based on the image analysis results, taking into account the positional relationship between the alignment reference guide 32 and the image sensor 44. The calculated coordinates are stored in the control device 20.

[0062] Next, the control device 20 compares the position (coordinates) of the registration mark RGv acquired in step S2 with the position (coordinates) of the registration mark RG acquired in step S9 to identify the deviation of the region AR surrounded by the registration mark RG from its theoretical position (step S10). In contrast, the coordinates of the registration mark RGv acquired in step S2 represent the theoretical position acquired from the image. In contrast, the coordinates of the registration mark RG acquired in step S9 are obtained by imaging the registration mark RG on the sheet SH, and therefore represent the position actually printed on the sheet SH1. Since the coordinates of the registration mark RG in the background image are the same as the coordinates of the registration mark RGv in the varnish image 300, the comparison in step S10 means comparing the theoretical position of the registration mark RG in the background image used for printing on the sheet SH1 with the actual position of the registration mark RG printed on the sheet SH1 based on this background image.

[0063] The misalignment is identified for each region AR and ARv. Specifically, first, the registration marks RG1 and RG2 that arrive first are captured by the image sensor, and their actual positions are stored. Subsequently, registration marks RG3 and RG4 arrive, are captured, and their positions are stored. Therefore, at this time, the actual shape of region AR1 surrounded by registration marks RG1, RG2, RG3, and RG4 is identified. In this embodiment, the shape of region ARv1 identified by the positions of registration marks RGv1, RGv2, RGv3, and RGv4 acquired in step S2 is rectangular. In contrast, the shape of the actually printed region AR1 is slightly deformed due to misalignment of the background image print, mechanical differences between individual printing devices used, etc. Examples of deformation include enlargement, reduction, offset, trapezoidal shape, parallelogram shape, and combinations thereof.

[0064] Next, based on the actual deformation of region AR with respect to the shape of region ARv, which is determined by its theoretical position, the object OBv1 within region ARv in the varnish image 300 is corrected to match the actual shape of region AR (step S11). This correction is performed for each pixel within the region, assuming that the displacements of the registration marks surrounding region AR in the P1 and P2 directions occur on average within that region. The correction may be performed on the varnish image 300 itself, or on the varnish data obtained from the varnish image 300.

[0065] Subsequently, registration marks RG5, 6, RG7, 8, RG9, 10 are acquired sequentially, and varnish data correction is performed in the order of regions ARv2, ARv3, and ARv4.

[0066] Next, when area AR of sheet SH1 reaches the varnish ejection unit 46, varnish is ejected onto sheet SH1 based on the corrected varnish data (step S12). Varnish ejection is performed based on varnish data converted from varnish image 300. Therefore, varnish is applied to the portion of object OB1 of the base image formed on sheet SH1, excluding the outer ellipse. Furthermore, by ejecting with the corrected varnish data, the varnish can be applied to a position that is accurately aligned with the base image actually printed on sheet SH.

[0067] Furthermore, even if the correction of the entire sheet SH1 is not yet complete, varnish can be dispensed into the corrected area AR. In other words, varnish dispensing to the downstream area AR in the Y direction (step S12) and correction of the varnish data of the upstream area AR in the Y direction (step S11) can be performed simultaneously.

[0068] The varnished sheet SH1 passes below the semi-curing UV lamp 48, irradiating the varnish on sheet SH1 with relatively weak UV light to semi-cure the varnish (step S13). In other words, the varnish is prevented from flowing over sheet SH1 while simultaneously giving the varnish layer surface tackiness. At this time, the main curing UV lamp 50 is turned off.

[0069] Furthermore, the sheet is fed to the foil stamping device 16, where the metal foil is transferred to the varnished portion of the sheet SH1 (foil stamping is performed) (step S14). That is, the web 52 holding the metal foil is placed on the varnished surface of the sheet SH1, and the metal foil layer of the web 52 is adhered to the sheet due to the tackiness of the varnish. In this state, ultraviolet light is irradiated by the foil stamping ultraviolet lamp 66 to harden the varnish, and then when the web 52 is peeled off, the metal foil remains only on the varnished portion of the sheet SH1. In this embodiment, the foil is applied according to the shape of the object OB1, excluding the outer ellipse.

[0070] In this embodiment, foil stamping is performed, but if foil stamping is not performed (dashed line in Figure 6), the semi-curing ultraviolet lamp 48 is turned off, and the full-curing ultraviolet lamp 50 is irradiated to perform full curing, completely curing the varnish on the sheet SH1 (step S13-1). In the foil stamping device 16, the web 52 retracts upward and passes through the sheet SH1. In this case, no foil is applied to the sheet SH1, and only the gloss effect from the varnish coating is obtained.

[0071] The sheet SH1 is then fed into the cutting device 17. In the cutting device 17, the cut data used for cutting is corrected in the same way as the varnish data correction in the varnish application device 14.

[0072] Specifically, first the leading edge of the sheet SH1 is detected by the sheet sensor 100 (step S15), and then, triggered by this detection of the leading edge, the image sensor 102 captures an image of the area on the sheet SH1 that includes the registration mark RG (step S16). Whether or not the area to be imaged has arrived is determined by whether or not the amount of material being transported by the transport belt 94 has reached a predetermined value. The amount of material being transported by the transport belt 94 is acquired in the same manner as the circumferential belt 51 in step S8.

[0073] The control device 20 analyzes the image captured by the image sensor 102, which includes the registration mark RG, identifies the position where the cross of the registration mark RG intersects, calculates its coordinates in the same manner as in step S9 (step S17), and stores them in the control device 20.

[0074] Next, the control device 20 compares the theoretical position of the registration mark RGv obtained in step S2 with the actual position of the registration mark RG obtained in step S17 to identify the deviation of the region AR surrounded by the registration mark RG from its theoretical position (step S18). The specific procedure is the same as in step S10.

[0075] Next, based on the actual deformation of region AR relative to the shape of region ARv, which is determined by the theoretical position, the cut line CL within region ARc of the cut image 400 is corrected to match the actual position of region AR (step S19). The specific correction method is the same as the correction of the varnish data in step S11.

[0076] Image acquisition by the image sensor and correction of the ARc region are performed sequentially from the upstream to the downstream side in the transport direction Y. Specifically, registration marks RG1-2, RG3-4, RG5-6, RG7-8, and RG9-10 are acquired sequentially, and the cut line CL (cut data) is corrected in the order of ARc1, ARc2, ARc3, and ARc4.

[0077] Next, when the area AR of the sheet SH1 reaches the scannable area of ​​the cutting head 92, the support member 98 and carriage 90 are driven based on the corrected cut data, and the sheet SH1 is cut (step S20). The support member 98 and carriage 90 are driven by the control device 20 so that the cutter supported by the cutting head 92 cuts the sheet along the cut line, based on the cut line included in the cut data and the conveying speed of the sheet SH1 by the conveyor belt 94. By controlling based on the corrected cut line, the sheet can be cut accurately along the cut line.

[0078] Furthermore, even if the correction of the entire sheet SH1 is not yet complete, cutting can begin from the corrected area AR. In other words, the cutting of the area AR located downstream in the Y direction (step S20) and the correction of the cut data of the area AR located upstream in the Y direction (step S19) can be performed simultaneously.

[0079] The cut sheets SH1 are stored in the stacker 18. Alternatively, instead of the stacker 18, a device may be provided to separate the used portion from the unused portion after cutting.

[0080] Figure 7 shows the finished product created from sheet SH1 by the process shown in the flowchart of Figure 6 using the printing system 10 of this embodiment. In this embodiment, 16 of these finished products are created from one sheet SH1. The cut line CL forms the outline, and the object OB1 is placed inside it. Varnish is applied to the black areas (text, etc.) other than the ellipse outside the object OB1, and metal foil is transferred onto it. According to this embodiment, by correction using the registration mark RG, the varnish and metal foil match the background image with high accuracy, and the finished product has high positional accuracy between the outline and the object OB1. In addition, since the same registration mark RG is used for varnish application and cutting position correction, there is no need to provide separate registration marks for each process, thus improving the efficiency of sheet utilization.

[0081] In this embodiment, the sheet SH1 is cut, but a half-cut process may also be performed. For example, the sheet SH1 can be constructed by laminating a backing paper layer and an adhesive sheet having an adhesive surface on one side, with the adhesive surface of the adhesive sheet facing the backing paper side, and by performing a half-cut in the cutting device 17 to cut only the adhesive sheet layer, an adhesive seal of a predetermined shape can be created.

[0082] In this embodiment, objects OB11-14 are formed in region AR1, objects OB15-18 are formed in region AR2, objects OB19-22 are formed in region AR3, and objects OB23-26 are formed in region AR4. However, the embodiment is not limited to this configuration, and objects OB1 may be provided across multiple regions AR. In other words, objects OB1 can be freely designed regardless of the boundaries of regions AR. In this case, each portion of object OB1 within each region AR is corrected at the stage when the varnish data within that region AR is corrected. The same applies to cut lines CL11-CL26.

[0083] In this embodiment, after being fed into the cutting device 17, imaging is performed by the image sensor 102. The embodiment is not limited to this, and the cut line CL may be corrected using the deviation from the theoretical position identified by the varnish coating device 14 in step S14. In this case, the image sensor 102 is unnecessary, and steps S16 to S18 can also be omitted. If deformation occurs in the sheet SH1 due to processing such as varnish coating, foil stamping, or ultraviolet irradiation, it is preferable not to omit steps S16 to S18 in this embodiment in order to obtain the actual position of the registration mark RG after deformation.

[0084] The background image printed on sheet SH1, as well as the varnish image 300 and cut image 400, are examples only, and of course, each can be freely designed.

[0085] (Second Embodiment) A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The explanation will focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and the explanation of the common points with the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate. Figures 8 and 9 are schematic diagrams showing the printing system (sheet processing device) 11 according to the second embodiment. Figure 8 is a side view, and Figure 9 is a top view. The printing system 11 differs from the printing system 10 of the first embodiment in that it includes a position correction device 19a and a die cutter 19b instead of a cutting device 17.

[0086] The die cutter 19b punches out the sheet into a predetermined shape using a pre-set die. The position correction device 19a corrects the inclination angle and position of the sheet fed into the die cutter 19b in the width direction X.

[0087] The position correction device 19a includes a correction table 104, a roller pair 106, a rotation mechanism 108, a pivot point 110, a rotating roller 112, side guides 114 and 116, an image sensor 117 (117a, 117b), a sheet sensor 118, and a base plate 119.

[0088] The correction table 104 is supported on a base plate 119 by a pivot point 110 and a pivot roller 112. The base plate 119 is a plate fixed to the housing. The correction table 104 can rotate on the base plate 119 about the pivot point 110 by a rotation mechanism 108. The rotation mechanism 108 is constructed by inserting an eccentric shaft 108a through an opening 104a provided on the lower surface of the box-shaped correction table 104. The eccentric shaft 108a, which rotates by a drive mechanism (not shown), acts as a cam, moving the opening 104a in the vertical direction in Figure 9, thereby causing the entire correction table 104 to rotate.

[0089] The roller pairs 106 are arranged in pairs vertically and in the width direction X, with two pairs provided. At least one of each roller pair 106 is rotationally driven by a mechanism (not shown). The roller pairs 106 can contact and separate from each other, and a mechanism (not shown) allows them to maintain contact and separation states. The roller pairs 106 are supported by the housing such that their axial direction is in the X direction, independently of the rotation of the correction table 104.

[0090] Both side guides 114 and 116 are movable in the width direction X. Both side guides 114 and 116 are mounted on the compensation table 104 and rotate together with the compensation table 104.

[0091] The image sensor 117, like the image sensor 44 in the varnish coating apparatus 14, is a sensor capable of imaging a predetermined area on a sheet and acquiring the image. In this embodiment, a CMOS sensor is used, but it is not limited to this, and a CCD sensor or a sensor using other image sensors may also be used. The image sensor 117 includes a downstream image sensor 117a and an upstream image sensor 117b, spaced apart in the transport direction Y. The image sensors 117a and 117b are positioned at the same location in the width direction X. The image sensor 117 images the registration marks on the sheet on the correction table 104. The sheet sensor 118 detects the leading edge of the sheet. The image sensor 117 and the sheet sensor 118 are supported by the housing independently of the rotation of the correction table 104. The position of the image sensor 117 in the transport direction Y can be adjusted in advance according to the position of the registration marks on the sheet.

[0092] The position correction device 19a can correct the position of the sheet in the width direction X by placing the sheet on the correction table 104 and moving the side guides 114 and 116 in the width direction X. In addition, the tilt angle of the sheet can be corrected by rotating the correction table 104.

[0093] The die cutter 19b includes a fixed platen 120, a movable platen 122, a die 124, a faceplate 126, and a conveyor belt pair 128.

[0094] The fixed platen 120 and the movable platen 122 are provided facing each other vertically, and the movable platen 122 is movable in the vertical direction.

[0095] The die 124 is fixed to the underside of the fixed base plate. The die 124 has grooves pre-formed on its wooden surface by laser processing or the like according to the shape to be cut or creased, and processing tools such as a strip-shaped cutting blade 124a or creasing member 124b are placed in these grooves (see Figure 12). The die 124 is fixed to the underside of the fixed base plate 120 with the side where the processing tools are placed facing downwards.

[0096] The faceplate 126 is a flat plate that receives the processing tools of the die 124 when the sheet is punched out, and is made of stainless steel, for example. The faceplate 126 is fixed to the upper surface of the movable platen 122.

[0097] The conveyor belt pair 128 grips and conveys the sheet by the right end (upper side in Figure 9) in the conveying direction Y in the width direction X. The opposite end of the sheet (lower side in Figure 9) is supported from below by a support member (not shown), so the sheet is introduced onto the faceplate 126 between the fixed platen 120 and the movable platen 122 and stops temporarily at a predetermined processing position.

[0098] When the sheet is introduced to the lowered position, the movable platen 122 moves upward, and the sheet is pressed against the processing tool of the die 124, the cutting blade 124a cuts the sheet, and the creasing member 124b makes creasing lines (fold lines) in the sheet. The sheet, thus punched into a predetermined shape and creasing, is then sent to the stacker 18.

[0099] The above describes the basic configuration of the printing system 11.

[0100] Figure 10 shows a sheet SH2, which is the material used to create a carton blank in this embodiment. Sheet SH2 has two objects OB31 and OB32 (hereinafter collectively referred to as object OB3) and 10 registration marks RG1 to RG10 (registration marks RG) printed on it. The registration marks RG have the same shape as in the first embodiment and are placed at the same coordinates. Therefore, similar to sheet SH1 in the first embodiment, regions AR1 to AR4 (region AR) are formed on sheet SH2.

[0101] Object OB31 is positioned across regions AR1 and AR2, and object OB32 is positioned across regions AR3 and AR4. Object OB3 has a colored area (shown in gray in the diagram) and a white oval area in the center, with text or other designs inside the white area.

[0102] Similar to the first embodiment, a background image is pre-printed on sheet SH2 based on a background image file that includes registration mark RG and object OB3. In other words, registration mark RG and object OB3 are printed simultaneously.

[0103] Figure 11 shows a varnish image 600 corresponding to sheet SH2. The varnish image 600 is input to the printing system 10 via operator input, wired or wireless communication lines, web lines, etc., and stored in the control device 20. The control device 20 sends the varnish image 600 to the varnish application device 14. The varnish application device 14 converts the varnish image 600 into varnish data in the varnish discharge unit 46, which determines the discharge timing of each nozzle.

[0104] Varnish image 600 contains two objects OBv31 and OBv32 (hereinafter collectively referred to as object OBv3) and ten registration marks RGv1 to RGv10 (registration marks RGv). The coordinates of each registration mark RGv are the same as those of registration marks RG in the background image. Therefore, four regions ARv1 to ARv4 are formed, corresponding to regions AR1 to AR4 in the background image.

[0105] Object OBv3 is the same shape as object OB3 in the background image, but with the colored area and the outer ellipse of the white area removed. Otherwise, its shape and coordinates are identical to object OB3 in the background image.

[0106] Figure 12 shows a die 124 corresponding to sheet SH2. In the figure, the dashed line represents the cutting blade 124a, and the dotted line represents the creasing member 124b. The die cutter 19b to which this die 124 is attached punches out the sheet along the dashed line and creates creases along the dotted line.

[0107] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the procedure for sheet processing performed by the printing system 11 using the varnish image 600 and die 124. Before sheet processing by the printing system 11 begins, the background image, varnish image 600, and die 124 are created in advance by the designer, die maker, etc., according to the desired output. Then, similar to sheet SH1, the background image is stored in a background image printing device separate from the printing system 11, and the background image printing device prints the background image onto sheet SH2. This printing results in sheet SH2 with registration marks RG1 to RG10 and objects OB31 and OB32 printed on it. The operator loads the sheet SH2 with the printed background image onto the feeding device 12 of the printing system 11 in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0108] Steps S101 to S114 are the same as steps S1 to S14 shown in Figure 6 (however, printing system 10 is replaced with printing system 11, sheet SH1 with sheet SH2, varnish image 300 with varnish image 600, objects OB1 and OBv1 with objects OB3 and OBv3 respectively, objects OB11 to OB26 with objects OB31 and 32, and objects OBv11 to OBv26 with objects OBv31 and OBv32. Also, in the second embodiment, the part to which foil is applied in step S114 is the part of object OB3 excluding the colored part and the ellipse around the edge of the white part), so the explanation is omitted.

[0109] The foil-coated sheet SH2 is fed into the position correction device 19a. The sheet is transported on the correction table 104 by the roller pair 106. When the leading edge of the sheet SH2 is detected by the sheet sensor 118 (step S115), transport is stopped (step S116). The roller pair 106 then separates and maintains the separated state (step S117).

[0110] Next, the side guides 114 and 116 advance from both sides in the width direction X toward the sheet SH2 which has stopped on the correction table 104, and clamp the sheet (step S118).

[0111] Next, the image sensor 117 captures an area including the registration mark RG (step S119). Here, an area including two registration marks RG, which have different theoretical positions in the P1 direction but the same theoretical position in the P2 direction, is captured. In this embodiment, the image sensor 117a captures an area including the registration mark RG1 at the front end, and the image sensor 117b captures an area including the registration mark RG9 at the rear end.

[0112] The control device 20 analyzes the image captured by the image sensor 117, which includes registration marks RG1 and RG9, identifies the position where the RG crosses intersect, calculates its coordinates (step S120), and stores them in the control device 20. The coordinates in the P1 direction are calculated based on the image analysis results, taking into account the positional relationship between the sheet sensor 118 and the image sensor 117. The coordinates in the P2 direction are calculated based on the image analysis results, taking into account the positional relationship between the side guide 116 on the reference edge side and the image sensor 117.

[0113] Next, the control device 20 determines the rotation direction and amount of rotation of the correction table 104, and the amount of shift by the side guides 114 and 116 after rotation (step S121). First, it compares the coordinate P2(RG1) of the registration mark RG1 in the P2 direction with the coordinate P2(RG9) of the registration mark RG9 in the P2 direction and obtains the difference Pd (Pd = P2(RG1) - P2(RG9)). Since the theoretical positions of the registration marks RG1 and RG9 in the P2 direction are the same, the value of Pd represents the angular deviation from that theoretical position.

[0114] Next, the control device 20 determines the rotation direction of the correction table 104 according to the acquired Pd. If Pd > 0, the registration mark RG9 is closer to the reference edge than the registration mark RG1, so the rotation direction is set to the clockwise direction in Figure 9. If Pd < 0, the registration mark RG1 is closer to the reference edge than the registration mark RG9, so the rotation direction is set to the counterclockwise direction in Figure 9.

[0115] The amount of rotation of the correction table 104 is the amount by which it rotates until the positions of registration marks RG1 and RG9 in the width direction X coincide with each other. Note that if Pd=0, the amount of rotation is also 0. The amount of shift by the side guides 114 and 116 is the amount by which the positions of registration marks RG1 and RG9 in the width direction X after rotation shift to the position at which they were processed by the die cutter 9b. The amount of rotation and the amount of shift are determined according to the positional relationship between the pivot point 110 and the image sensor 117, the coordinates acquired in step S120, and the value of Pd.

[0116] The correction table 104 is rotated according to the determined rotation direction and amount (step S122), and the side guides 114 and 116 are driven to shift the seat in the width direction X according to the shift amount (step S123). This completes the correction.

[0117] In this embodiment, registration marks RG1 and RG9 were used, but the registration marks used are not limited to these. Any two registration marks with the same coordinate in the P2 direction at the theoretical position may be used. However, using two registration marks with a long separation distance in the P1 direction from each other will improve the correction accuracy compared to using two marks with a short separation distance.

[0118] Next, the pair of rollers 106 grips the sheet SH2 (step S124), and the side guides 114 and 116 separate from the sheet (step S125). Then the pair of rollers 106 is driven to rotate, and the transport of the sheet SH2 resumes (step S126).

[0119] The sheet is fed between the fixed platen 120 and the movable platen 122 of the die cutter 19b. At this time, the image sensor 117a images the area on the conveyed sheet SH2 that includes the registration mark RG (step S127). The registration mark RG being imaged here is located upstream of the registration mark RG imaged in step S119 (in this embodiment, registration mark RG9).

[0120] The control device 20 determines the transport distance from the time the image is captured by the image sensor 117a to the processing position of the die cutter 19b (step S128). The control device analyzes the image including the registration mark RG9 captured by the image sensor 117a and calculates its position in the P1 direction. Based on this calculation result and the position of the image sensor 117a, the transport distance is determined. Therefore, since the object OB3 on the sheet can be stopped based on the position of the registration mark RG on the corrected sheet SH2, the object OB3 on the sheet stops at a good processing position.

[0121] It is preferable that the image sensor 117a takes the image after the sheet SH2 has been gripped by the conveyor belt pair 128. This is because, from the time of imaging by the image sensor 117a until it stops at the processing position, the sheet is conveyed by the same conveyor belt pair 128, and the accuracy of the stopping position can be improved by determining the amount of conveyance using an encoder or the like provided in the drive mechanism of the conveyor belt pair 128.

[0122] The sheet SH2 is transported by the amount determined in step S128 and then stops (step S129). The sheet SH2 stops precisely at the predetermined processing position within the die cutter 19b.

[0123] Next, the movable platen 122 is moved upward, and the sheet SH2 is pressed against the tool of the die 124 to punch out the predetermined shape and also to perform creasing (step S130).

[0124] The sheet SH2 after punching is accumulated in the stacker 18. Alternatively, instead of the stacker 18, a device that separates the used and unused parts after punching may be provided. Furthermore, the die cutter 19b is not limited to a flat plate type; it may also be a rotary die cutter, and it is not limited to punching; it may also perform embossing, or a combination of punching and embossing.

[0125] Figure 14 shows a carton blank created from sheet SH2 by the process shown in the flowchart of Figure 13 using the printing system 11 of this embodiment. In this embodiment, two of these finished products are created from one sheet SH2. The dashed lines are creases (fold lines). Varnish is applied to the black parts (text, etc.) of object OB3 other than the ellipse, and metal foil is transferred onto them. According to this embodiment, by correction using registration mark RG, the varnish and metal foil accurately match the background image, and a carton blank is obtained in which the creases and outlines accurately match the shape of the colored parts. In addition, since the same registration mark RG is used for correcting the varnish application position and the punching angle, there is no need to provide separate registration marks for each process, thus improving the efficiency of sheet utilization.

[0126] The rotation direction, rotation amount, and shift amount determined in step S121 may be correctable. For example, the operator may input a correction amount according to the actual punching results, and the control device 20 will correct the calculated result by that correction amount. This allows for correction of machining position deviations caused by angular deviations of the die 124 of the die cutter 19b, tool placement deviations, etc.

[0127] Alternatively, instead of the image sensor 117a, the amount of material being transported until stopping may be determined by an image sensor separately installed inside the die cutter 19b.

[0128] In this embodiment, when determining the rotation direction, rotation amount, and shift amount of the correction table 104, the angular displacement may be obtained by using two registration marks that have the same coordinate in the P1 direction at their theoretical positions. In this case, one image sensor is provided on each side in the width direction X. For example, when using registration marks RG9 and RG10, the rotation direction of the correction table 104 is determined based on the difference in the coordinates in the P1 direction of registration marks RG9 and RG10. The rotation amount and the subsequent shift amount are determined based on the positional relationship between the pivot point 110 and the image sensor, the actual coordinates of the registration marks RG9 and RG10, and the difference in the coordinates in the P1 direction. The amount of material transported by the die cutter 19b to the processing position may be determined by capturing the registration mark RG again with an image sensor after rotation and shifting, obtaining its actual position in the transport direction Y, or by determining the actual position of the registration mark RG captured by an image sensor separately installed downstream of the image sensors provided on both sides of the width direction X.

[0129] The background image, varnish image 600, and die-cut 124 printed on sheet SH2 are examples only; each can be freely designed.

[0130] The present invention has been described above based on embodiments. These embodiments are illustrative, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible in combinations of these components and processing processes, and that such modifications also fall within the scope of the present invention. Such modifications will be described below.

[0131] In the first and second embodiments described above, an example was given in which 5 pairs, totaling 10 registration marks RG, were provided in the P1 direction. However, there may be any number of pairs of registration marks RG. For example, if there are 3 pairs, there will be 2 regions AR surrounded by the registration marks RG, and if there are 2 pairs, there will be 1 region AR (however, if there is only 1 region AR, steps S11 and S12 must be performed sequentially for that region AR, so it is not possible to perform step S11 of the upstream region AR and step S12 of the downstream region AR simultaneously).

[0132] In the first and second embodiments described above, the correction of region AR is performed based on four registration marks RG surrounding the region, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, only one pair of registration marks RG may be provided at the leading edge of the sheet, and the correction may be based on their actual position. In this case, for example, all regions on the sheet can be estimated to be similarly shifted and corrected based on the difference in the coordinates of the pair of registration marks in the P1 direction.

[0133] In the first embodiment described above, a printing system 10 combining inkjet-based UV varnish coating and a cutting plotter was illustrated. In the second embodiment, a printing system 11 combining inkjet-based UV varnish coating and a flatbed die cutter was illustrated. However, the present invention is not limited to these forms, and any system that uses the same registration marks in both processes in which processing positions are determined based on the position of registration marks may be used. The shape, position, and quantity of the registration marks should be suitable for sharing between both processes. For example, one case is to perform color printing using a full-color inkjet printer that aligns the ejection positions of each CMYK ink using registration marks, and then use at least a portion of the registration marks to cut or emboss at a position that matches the printing position. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0134] 10, 11 Printing Systems 14. Varnish application device 17 Cutting device 19a Position correction device 19b Die cutter RG, RGv Registration Mark AR, ARv, ARc area CL cut line

Claims

1. A reading unit that reads the positions of multiple registration marks on the sheet, A first processing unit performs a first processing operation on a processing position determined based on the positions of multiple registration marks read by the reading unit, A second processing unit performs a second processing on a processing position determined based on the positions of multiple registration marks read by the reading unit, It has, A sheet processing system in which at least a portion of the plurality of registration marks is used for both determining the processing position of the first processing and determining the processing position of the second processing.

2. The aforementioned reading unit includes a first reading unit and a second reading unit. The first processing unit performs the first processing on the processing position determined based on the positions of the plurality of registration marks read by the first reading unit. The second processing unit performs the second processing on the processing position determined based on the positions of the multiple registration marks read by the second reading unit. At least a portion of the plurality of registration marks are read by both the first reading unit and the second reading unit. The sheet processing system according to claim 1.

3. The first process and the second process are performed while the sheet is transported in one direction. The sheet processing system according to claim 1.

4. The plurality of registration marks include at least one pair of registration marks, each consisting of two registration marks spaced apart in a direction parallel to one side of the sheet. The pair of registration marks is used for both determining the processing position of the first process and determining the processing position of the second process. The sheet processing system according to claim 1.

5. The registration mark pairs include at least two pairs spaced apart in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the registration mark pairs form a pair, The first process is performed on the sheet on which the registration marks have been printed in advance, using processing data based on pre-acquired image data. The processing of the area surrounded by the two pairs of registration marks is performed using the processing data corrected based on the difference between the actual positions of the two pairs of registration marks read by the reading unit and their theoretical positions. The sheet processing system according to claim 4.

6. The registration mark pairs include at least three pairs spaced apart in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the registration mark pairs form a pair, and multiple adjacent regions are formed surrounded by two pairs of registration mark pairs. The first process is performed on the sheet being transported in a direction in which the regions are adjacent, and the processing data is corrected for each region. The sheet processing system according to claim 5.

7. The second process is performed on the sheet on which registration marks have been pre-printed, using processing data based on pre-acquired image data. The processing of the area surrounded by the two pairs of registration marks is performed using the processing data corrected based on the difference between the actual positions of the two pairs of registration marks read by the reading unit and their theoretical positions. The sheet processing system according to claim 5 or 6.

8. The registration mark pairs include at least three pairs spaced apart in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the registration mark pairs form a pair, and multiple adjacent regions are formed surrounded by two pairs of registration mark pairs. The second process is performed on the sheet being transported in a direction in which the regions are adjacent, and the processing data is corrected for each region. The sheet processing system according to claim 7.

9. The second process is performed by correcting the angle of the sheet based on the difference between the actual orientation in which the registration mark pairs form a pair and the theoretical orientation. A sheet processing system according to any one of claims 4 to 6.

10. The sheet processing system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first process is a printing process.

11. The first process is an inkjet recording process that includes an inkjet head that ejects ink onto a sheet being transported in one direction, and is performed by processing data based on image data. The processing data is ejection data for ejecting ink, corrected based on the difference between the actual position and the theoretical position of the registration mark. The sheet processing system according to claim 10.

12. The sheet processing system according to claim 11, wherein the inkjet recording process is a process of ejecting UV-curable varnish by an inkjet head.

13. The sheet processing system according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the second process is a process different from the printing process.

14. The second process described above is a cutting process that is performed by cutting or half-cutting along a predetermined cut line, using processing data based on image data. The processing data is cut data defining the cut line, corrected based on the difference between the actual position and the theoretical position of the registration mark. The sheet processing system according to claim 13.

15. The second process is a die-cutting process in which a sheet is punched out into a predetermined shape using a blade that has been formed in advance along a predetermined cut line. The sheet processing system according to claim 13.

Images