Apparatus and method for manipulating a plate

Abstract

A system for moving a flexible plate, particularly a printing plate or printing plate precursor, over a support surface toward a processing station is provided. The system includes a support for supporting the plate on the support surface, an articulated arm extending substantially parallel to the support surface and including a first segment and a second segment, and a control means. The first segment has a first end rotatably connected to the second segment about a first axis of rotation substantially perpendicular to the support surface, and a second end provided with a plate engaging means for contacting the plate, the second segment being rotatable about the second axis of rotation substantially perpendicular to the support surface. The control means controls the rotation of the first and second segments so that the plate slides over the support toward the processing station.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The field of the invention relates to apparatus and methods for manipulating plates, in particular printing plates or printing plate precursors. More specifically, the invention relates to apparatus and methods for registering the leading edge of a plate, and to apparatus and methods for moving a plate, in particular a flexible plate. [Background technology]

[0002] The printing plate needs to be transported between various processing stations. Examples of processes to which the printing plate may be subjected include cutting, ablation, exposure to electromagnetic radiation, developing, cleaning, brushing, rinsing, spraying, drying, irradiating, heating, cooling, removal of material, treatment with gases or liquids, sanding, cutting, treatment with electromagnetic waves, and combinations thereof.

[0003] For flexographic printing, automated movement of the plate has been used for transporting the plate inside the cleaning station and the process steps before and after. For example, the plate is moved from the imaging station to the curing station to the cleaning station. Known systems may use conveyor belts. Furthermore, a carrier bar may be used to move the printing plate precursor, for example through the cleaning station. For this purpose, a series of through holes may be provided in certain areas of the printing plate precursor, at the punching station. An example of a cleaning device with a carrier bar system is disclosed in PCT application PCT / EP2019 / 060370 in the name of the applicant. However, the use of conveyors and carrier bar systems cannot be used in all parts of the process.

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

[0005] Therefore, there is a need in the art for an improved system for transporting and registering plates to reduce operator effort. Summary of the Invention

[0006] It is an object of some embodiments of the present invention to provide an apparatus and method for aligning the edge of a plate, typically the leading edge of a plate, that is robust, simple and produces reliable results.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for registering the edge of a plate, in particular a printing plate or printing plate precursor, is provided. The apparatus comprises a support, at least two movable elements, a detection means, at least one controllable component, and a control means. The support is configured to support the plate on a support surface and is intended to be arranged upstream of a processing station, for example a washing station. The at least two movable elements are arranged to be moved by an edge, typically a leading edge, of the plate. The at least two movable elements comprise a first and a second movable element. The detection means are configured to detect first and second criteria (evaluation values) representing first and second positions of the first and second movable elements, respectively. The at least one controllable component is configured to perform an operation on the plate. The control means are configured to control the at least one controllable component based on the first and second criteria.

[0008] At least two moving elements can be used in combination with a detection means to determine whether the edges of the plate are aligned by detecting first and second fiducials representing the first and second positions of the first and second moving elements. This is a robust and simple means that can be easily added to any support and gives reliable results. In this way, the process can be made faster and less operator intervention is required. Furthermore, compared to prior art solutions in which the edges are detected directly, for example using optical sensors, embodiments of the invention have the advantage that the detection means can be positioned so that they are not affected by changes in environmental conditions, such as the image on the plate, since the detection means detects fiducials representing the positions of the moving elements.

[0009] Preferably, the at least two movable elements are arranged to protrude through said support surface at the starting position of the at least two movable elements. Such an embodiment has the advantage that the movable elements do not interfere with other components and that the detection can take place below the support surface. However, in other embodiments the movable elements may be arranged above the support surface and the plate may then pass below the movable elements.

[0010] Preferably, the at least one controllable component comprises a moving means configured to move the plate over the support surface. In this way, the movement of the plate can be controlled by the control means depending on the first and second criteria measured by the detection means. For example, the moving means can be configured to rotate the plate about an axis perpendicular to the support surface to improve alignment, and the plate can be determined to be aligned when the difference between the first and second criteria falls below a predefined threshold.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the moving means is configured to rotate the plate about an axis perpendicular to the support surface and to translate the plate parallel to the support surface. In that case, the control means may be configured to first translate and / or rotate the plate until the edge contacts at least two movable elements, after which the plate may be further rotated until the difference between a first reference and a second reference is below a predetermined threshold, and thereafter the plate may be further translated above or below at least two movable elements.

[0012] Preferably, the at least two movable elements are at least two pivotable pins arranged to be pivoted by the edge of the plate. The pivotable elements can be easily mounted either within the support body or above the support body so as to project through the support surface, and the angle at which the pivotable elements pivot is a direct and accurate reference for the location of the contact point with the edge.

[0013] More preferably, the at least two pivotable pins comprise a first and a second pivotable pin, and the detection means is configured to detect first and second references representing the first and second angles of the first and second pivotable pins. The at least two pivotable pins can extend below and above the support surface, and the detection means, such as angle detection means, can be provided either below the support surface where it is not affected by measurement interference factors or above the support body away from the support surface, preferably where it is not affected by characteristics such as the image or color of the plate.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the at least two pins are arranged and configured to face the at least two pins themselves in an upstream direction, preferably at an angle of 15 to 75 degrees with respect to the support surface, when not touched by the edge of the plate. In this way, for example, the pins can gradually move from a first starting position where the pins point in the upstream direction (i.e., the direction from which the approaching edge comes) to a position perpendicular to the support surface, and then to a position where the pins are directed in the downstream direction and the plate can move over the pins.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, the at least two pivotable pins are movable between a start position and an end position, and biasing means, such as counterweights or spring means attached to the at least two pivotable pins, are configured to exert a force in an upstream direction against the edge of the plate, and optionally further biasing means, such as pistons, are provided to urge the at least two pivotable pins to the end position, preferably below the support surface or sufficiently above the support surface to avoid damage.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, at least two pivotable pins are pivotally arranged about a pivot axis, the pivot axis being arranged at a distance of more than 5 cm below or above the support surface, preferably more than 10 cm below or above the support surface. In this way, the edge can move over a relatively large distance above the support surface while maintaining contact with the pivotable pins. Indeed, the greater the distance between the pivot axis and the support surface, the greater the distance the edge can move parallel to the support while gradually contacting the pivoting pins. This further improves the accuracy of the plate registration.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the at least two movable elements and the support are configured such that the at least two movable elements can be moved below or well above the support surface or flush with the support surface when the plate passes above or below the at least two movable elements. Such an embodiment is particularly useful when it is desired to first align the plate moving in the machine transport direction and then move the plate further in the machine transport direction on the at least two movable elements. However, in other embodiments, in which the at least one controllable component comprises, for example, a punching means, the at least two movable elements may not be moved below or well above the support surface. In that case, the punching action may be performed when the difference between the first and second criterion falls below a predefined threshold, after which the plate can be removed without having to pass above or below the at least two movable elements.

[0018] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support is a support table provided with at least two slits through which at least two mobile elements protrude. If the mobile elements are pivotable pins, the slits may be dimensioned such that the pivotable pins can be moved from a rest position in which the pins point in the upstream direction to a position in which the pins point in the downstream direction and, optionally, to an end position in which the pins are located below or flush with the support surface.

[0019] According to an exemplary embodiment, each pivotable pin comprises a first elongated portion and a second elongated portion, the second elongated portion being at an angle of 120 to 175 degrees relative to the first elongated portion. Preferably, the second elongated portion extends at least partially above the support surface when in the start position, while the first elongated portion extends below the support surface.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the detection means is provided below the support surface. In this way, the detection means is not disturbed by changing environment such as the image on the plate. For example, if the movable elements are pivotable pins, the detection means may comprise an angle sensor for each pin, preferably arranged close to the pivot axis of the pivotable pin. According to another embodiment, the detection means is provided above the support surface, preferably so as not to be influenced by the properties of the plate.

[0021] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support may be configured such that the support surface is an inclined surface. In particular, if the processing station downstream of the movable element is a cleaning station, it may be advantageous to have the support surface inclined slightly downwards in the direction of the cleaning station.

[0022] According to an exemplary embodiment, the at least one controllable component comprises any one or more of the following: punching means, plate bonding means, plate gripping means.

[0023] According to an exemplary embodiment, the movement means may comprise any one or more of the following: at least one robotic arm, a set of rollers, a set of chains, a set of belts.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, at least two movable elements are intended to engage the leading edge of the plate and are used to align the plate so that the leading edge is oriented approximately perpendicular to the machine transport direction in which the plate is intended to move through the apparatus.

[0025] According to another exemplary embodiment, at least two movable elements may be used to center the plate, with the side edge contacting one of the movable elements. For such an embodiment, the moving means is preferably configured to translate the plate parallel to the support surface in a direction perpendicular to the machine transport direction, and the control means is configured to control the moving means until the datum of the pin contacting the side edge is within a predetermined range.

[0026] According to an exemplary embodiment, the moving means comprises an articulated working arm configured to translate and / or rotate the plate such that an edge of the plate moves in the direction of the at least two movable elements. Optionally, the moving means further comprises a plate engaging means at an end of the articulated working arm, said plate engaging means configured to contact the plate such that movement of the working arm causes sliding of the plate over the support surface. The plate engaging means may be a suction means, a clamping means or simply a head with a contact surface that is pressed against the plate. In the latter case, friction and / or adhesion between the contact surface and the plate may be sufficient to allow the plate to slide over the support surface.

[0027] Preferably, the control means is configured to compare the first criterion with the second criterion and determine that the edges of the plate are aligned or the plate is centred if the difference between the first criterion and the second criterion is less than a predetermined threshold.

[0028] Preferably, the distance between the first and second movable elements is in the range of 10 cm to 1000 cm, preferably 10 to 500 cm, more preferably 10 to 100 cm.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, two moving elements are used to align the leading edge, however, three or more moving elements may also be used.

[0030] In a further developed embodiment, two movable elements may be provided for aligning the leading edge of the plate moving in the machine transport direction and one or two further movable elements may be provided for centering the plate in a direction perpendicular to the machine transport direction. If pivotable pins are used, the pin for aligning the leading edge may pivot in a plane parallel to the machine transport direction and perpendicular to the support surface, while the further pin or pins used for centering the plate may pivot in a plane perpendicular to the machine transport direction and perpendicular to the support surface.

[0031] Preferably, the plate is a rectangular plate.

[0032] The detection means may comprise any one of optical detection means, proximity detection means, pressure detection means, electrical detection means, magnetic detection means, mechanical detection means, ferrous / non-ferrous metal detection means, or combinations thereof. Examples of suitable detection means include angle sensors, proximity switches, photo sensors, mechanical switches, magnetic switches, cameras, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the detection means comprises first and second detectors for performing detection on the first and second moving elements, respectively. However, certain detection means, such as a camera, may be used when both the first and second moving elements are visible.

[0033] In an embodiment in which the at least one controllable component comprises a punching means, the punching means may comprise a drive means configured to place one or more piercing or perforating elements through or into the edge of the plate. The drive means may for example be a hammer movably arranged such that the drive means can engage against the edge of the relief plate master to place one or more piercing or perforating elements through or into the edge of the plate.

[0034] According to another aspect, there is provided an apparatus for detecting or locating an edge of a plate, in particular a printing plate or printing plate precursor, said apparatus comprising a support configured to support the plate in a support surface and intended to be arranged upstream of a processing station, at least one pivotable pin arranged to be displaced by the edge of the plate, detection means configured to detect at least one criterion representative of the position of the at least one pivotable pin, preferably the detection means being arranged below the support surface and at least one controllable component configured to perform an action on the plate, and control means configured to control the at least one controllable component on the basis of the at least one criterion. Preferably, at least one pivotable pin protrudes through said support surface.

[0035] An embodiment having a single pivotable pin may provide a simple and robust mechanism for detecting the edge of the plate, and in particular the movement of the edge of the plate as it moves relative to, and optionally over or under, the pivotable pin.

[0036] Any one of the pivotable pin, detection means, controllable components, supports and control means features described above may also be used in embodiments of the last aspect.

[0037] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a system comprising an apparatus of any one of the above-mentioned embodiments and a processing station downstream of the support and configured to receive the aligned plate.

[0038] According to an exemplary embodiment, the treatment in the treatment station is selected from the group including cleaning, brushing, rinsing, spraying, drying, irradiating, developing, heating, cooling, removal of material, treatment with gas or liquid, sanding, cutting, treatment with electromagnetic waves, ablation, measuring, and combinations thereof.

[0039] According to an exemplary embodiment, the processing at the processing station is a thermal treatment that results in a liquefied portion of the relief plate master, followed by contacting the liquefied portion with a moving acceptor material, such as a web, a nonwoven material, or a foil having molten material attached thereto, which continuously removes the liquefied portion with the acceptor material.

[0040] According to a further aspect, there is provided a method for aligning an edge, typically a leading edge of a plate, the method comprising: Providing a plate having at least one substantially straight edge, typically a leading edge; - coupling the plate to a transfer means; - moving the plate over a support surface such that the edges are in contact with at least two movable elements; - detecting the positions of at least two moving elements; - controlling the means of movement based on the results of the detecting step; A method is provided, comprising:

[0041] The movable element may have any one or more of the features described above. Preferably, the movable element is a pivotable element.

[0042] Preferably, the at least two movable elements are arranged to protrude through the support surface at a start position of the at least two movable elements, and during the moving step the at least two movable elements move from said start position to an end position. Alternatively, the at least two movable elements may be arranged above the support surface and move upwards when moving from the start position to the end position.

[0043] Optionally, the plate is separated from the moving means when it is detected that the movements of the at least two movable elements caused by the leading edge are substantially the same.

[0044] Preferably, the step of controlling the moving means based on the result of the detection comprises rotating and / or translating the plate until a difference in position between a first and a second of the at least two movable elements is less than a predetermined threshold.

[0045] Preferably the plate is a printing plate or printing plate precursor, however the method may also be useful for other plates such as a printed circuit board, cardboard, a piece of metal or wood.

[0046] Preferably, the moving step includes a step of moving the plate so that its leading edge contacts the at least two movable elements, and the method further includes a step of supplying the plate to a processing unit when it is detected that a difference in position between a first movable element and a second movable element of the at least two movable elements is less than a predetermined threshold.

[0047] Preferably, the at least two movable elements are moved below or sufficiently above the support surface so as to be positioned above the plate when the plate is fed to the processing unit.

[0048] In a possible embodiment, the method further comprises centering the plate relative to an inlet of a processing unit arranged downstream of the at least two movable elements. Optionally, the at least two movable elements comprise a first pair of movable elements and a third movable element, and the moving step comprises moving a leading edge relative to the first pair of movable elements and moving a side edge of the plate relative to the third movable element, respectively. In this way, both the leading edge alignment and the plate centering step can be achieved.

[0049] It is an object of further embodiments of the present invention to provide a system and method for moving a flexible plate, in particular a printing plate or printing plate precursor, over a support surface towards a processing station such as a cleaning station, and more particularly a system and method which allows the plate to be slid over the support surface in an improved manner.

[0050] According to one aspect, a system for moving a flexible plate, in particular a printing plate or printing plate precursor, over a support surface in the direction of a processing station is provided. The system comprises a support, an articulated operating arm, and a control means. The support, typically a table, is configured to support the plate on the support surface of the support and is intended to be arranged upstream of the processing station. The articulated operating arm extends substantially parallel to the support surface and comprises at least a first segment and a second segment. The first segment has a first end rotatably connected to the second segment about a first axis of rotation substantially perpendicular to the support surface, and a second end provided with a plate engaging means configured to contact the plate such that movement of the operating arm causes sliding of the plate over the support surface. The second segment is rotatable about a second axis of rotation substantially perpendicular to the support surface. The control means is configured to control the plate engaging means and to control the rotation of the first and second segments of the articulated operating arm such that the plate slides over the support surface in the direction of the processing station.

[0051] Such an articulated movement arm allows the plate to be slid, i.e. moved, or pushed or pulled, over the support surface while allowing the plate to be rotated about a first movable axis of rotation and a second fixed axis of rotation, resulting in any desired movement pattern of the plate. Preferably, the plate is not lifted, on the contrary the plate engagement means presses the plate against the support surface while the plate slides over it.

[0052] Preferably, the plate engaging means is configured to couple the first segment to the plate by suction, adhesion or friction, or by a combination thereof. Preferably, the plate engaging means rests on the plate by gravity.

[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, the plate engagement means comprises one or more suction cups, preferably at least two suction cups. In a preferred embodiment, each suction cup has a part intended to come into contact with the plate, said part being made of a porous material, preferably a porous metal, ceramic or plastic. Preferably, the part intended to come into contact with the plate is substantially flat.

[0054] In another exemplary embodiment, the plate engagement means comprises one or more contact heads, preferably at least two contact heads, each head having a contact surface configured to be pressed against the plate. The control means may then be configured to press the one or more contact heads against the plate such that friction and / or adhesion between the one or more contact surfaces and the plate allows sliding of the plate over the support surface by the operating arm. For example, the contact surface may be made of a material that "sticks" to the plate when pressure is applied without causing marks on the plate. For example, a pressure-sensitive adhesive may be attached to the engagement means.

[0055] Preferably, the control means is configured to control the articulated arm such that a rotation through approximately 90° is performed while pulling or pushing the plate towards the processing station. In this way, the orientation of the plate can be changed from a position in which the shortest direction of the plate is oriented in the machine transport direction to a position in which the longest direction of the plate is oriented in the machine transport direction, or vice versa. In particular for large plates, this can be useful when the plate is transported, for example, from an exposure station to a cleaning station.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the support is a table provided with a number of holes, and the system further comprises blowing means configured to blow gas through said holes in the direction of the plate supported on the table in order to reduce friction between the plate and the table. In this way, the force required to slide the plate over the support surface can be reduced. Preferably, the blowing will be performed over the entire contact surface between the support surface and the plate.

[0057] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support comprises a passive ball transfer conveyor comprising a plurality of rotatably mounted balls projecting from a support surface. The plurality of balls may be arranged along a regular grid, for example at equal distances from each other as viewed in the machine conveying direction. Preferably, the distance between adjacent balls of the plurality of balls is between 5 and 50 cm. Preferably, the diameter of the plurality of balls is between 5 and 50 mm. Preferably, the plurality of balls project from the support surface over a height of less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, for example 1 to 4 mm. Preferably, the support surface between the plurality of balls is a flat surface. Preferably, the plate engaging means rests on the plate by gravity. In the case of balls below the plate engaging means, the plate engaging means may move slightly upwards when overriding the balls. However, since the plate is typically compressible, such upward movement is usually negligible.

[0058] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support comprises at least a first and a second table part, the processing station being a second processing station, the first processing station being arranged at an edge of the first table part, the second table part being arranged downstream of the first table part as seen in the machine transport direction towards the second processing station, the first table part being movable, preferably hinged, such that the first table part can be removed or folded to allow the operator to access the first processing station. Optionally, the support further comprises a third table part arranged downstream of the second table part, the second processing station being arranged at an edge of the third table part. The third table part is movable, preferably hinged, such that the third table part can be removed or folded to allow the operator to access the second processing station.

[0059] The control means may comprise first actuation means for controlling rotation of the first segment relative to the second segment and second actuation means for controlling rotation of the second segment about the second axis of rotation.

[0060] Preferably, the plate engaging means is arranged to be rotatable about a third axis of rotation perpendicular to the support surface. In that case, the control means may comprise actuation means configured to rotate the plate engaging means about the third axis of rotation. This allows the plate engaging means to be coupled to the plate in any desired orientation, thereby improving the force exerted on the plate while sliding the plate over the support surface. For example, if the plate engaging means comprises two or more contact heads or suction cups arranged on a bracket, this allows the bracket to be arranged perpendicular to the machine transport direction.

[0061] Preferably, at least the plate engaging means is movable in a direction perpendicular to the support surface between a contact position, in which the plate engaging means is in contact with the plate, and a non-contact position, in which the plate engaging means is at a distance above the plate. In an exemplary embodiment, only the plate engaging means is movable, not the arm segments. In another embodiment, the entire working arm may be movable in a direction perpendicular to the support surface. The control means may then comprise actuation means configured to move at least the plate engaging means, and optionally the entire working arm, between the contact and non-contact positions.

[0062] According to an exemplary embodiment, the control means, in a first operating mode, performs the following sequence of steps: - coupling a plate engagement means to the plate at a first location on the plate; - moving the plate according to a first trajectory, which may for example be a substantially linear movement; - separating the plate engaging means from the plate; - coupling the plate engaging means to the plate at a second location of the plate different from the first location; - moving the plate according to a second trajectory, optionally wherein the step of moving the plate according to the second trajectory involves a rotation of the plate through approximately 90 degrees; The actuator is configured to control the operating arm so that:

[0063] Such a mode of operation may be preferable for large plates that need to be rotated.

[0064] The first location may be near the leading edge of the plate, preferably at a location substantially in the center of the leading edge of the plate. The second location may be located on one side of the plate's centerline, preferably in the quarter closest to the second axis of rotation, for example in the leading quarter. Selection of such a location may result in a sufficient distribution of forces, for example when the first trajectory is linear movement in the machine transport direction and the second trajectory is rotation.

[0065] According to an exemplary embodiment, the control means, in another operating mode, performs the following sequence of steps: - coupling the plate engagement means to the plate; - moving the plate according to a trajectory involving a rotation and / or a translation of the plate, preferably involving a rotation through 90° or through 180°; - separating the plate engaging means from the plate; The actuator is configured to control the operating arm so that:

[0066] In other words, it is also possible to move the plate in a continuous motion without changing the coupling location. Especially for smaller plates or for linear movements, such a mode of operation may be preferable.

[0067] Preferably, the control means is configured to control the operating arm depending on the size of the plate. For example, the control means may be configured to determine whether the plate is larger than a predetermined size, and to execute the sequence of steps of the first operating mode described above if the plate is determined to be larger than the predetermined size, and to execute the sequence of steps of the other operating mode described above if the plate is determined to be equal to or smaller than the predetermined size.

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises a detection assembly configured to detect a datum representative of the position of the plate, and the control means is configured to control the rotation of the plate engagement means and / or the first and / or second segments in response to the datum detected by the detection assembly. The detection assembly may be configured to detect whether the plate is correctly aligned at the entrance of the processing station. For example, an embodiment of the device having a moving element as described above may be used for this purpose.

[0069] Preferably, the articulating arm and control means are adapted to move a plate having a weight of between 6 and 30 kg, i.e. a relatively heavy plate resting on a support surface during movement.

[0070] According to another aspect, there is provided a method for moving a flexible plate, in particular a printing plate or a printing plate original, on a support surface in the direction of a processing station such as a cleaning station, the method comprising: · supporting the plate on a support surface disposed upstream of the processing station; · sliding the plate on the support surface using an articulated arm, the articulated arm comprising at least a first segment extending substantially parallel to the support surface and having plate engaging means, and a second segment rotatably connected to the first segment about a first axis of rotation substantially perpendicular to the support surface, the second segment being rotatable about a second axis of rotation substantially perpendicular to the support surface, and preferably, the plate engaging means engaging the plate by friction, adhesion, and / or suction; · controlling the rotation of the first and second segments of the articulated arm such that the plate slides on the support surface in the direction of the processing station; wherein the method is provided.

[0071] In an exemplary embodiment, the controlling step is performed such that the following series of steps are executed: coupling the plate engaging means to the plate at a first location on the plate; moving the plate along a first trajectory; separating the plate engaging means from the plate; coupling the plate engaging means to the plate at a second location on the plate different from the first location; and moving the plate along a second trajectory. Preferred features regarding this series of steps have been described above for embodiments of the system and are applicable to the method as well.

[0072] In an exemplary embodiment, the controlling step is performed such that the following series of steps are executed: coupling the plate engaging means to the plate; moving the plate along a trajectory involving rotation and / or translation of the plate; and separating the plate engaging means from the plate.

[0073] Preferably, the controlling step includes controlling the operating arm depending on a size of the plate, for example, if the plate is larger than a predetermined size, a first set of steps may be performed, and if the plate is determined to be equal to or smaller than the predetermined size, a second set of steps may be performed.

[0074] Optionally, the method further comprises detecting a datum representative of a position of the plate, and the controlling step comprises controlling the rotation of the first and / or second segments in response to the detected datum. The detecting step may comprise detecting whether the plate is correctly aligned at an entrance to the processing station.

[0075] The accompanying drawings are used to illustrate presently preferred, non-limiting, exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, system, and method of the present invention. The above and other advantages of the features and objects of the present invention will become more apparent and the invention will be better understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0076] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system for moving a printing plate; [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of another system for moving a printing plate, with an actuator arm in position for rotating the plate; FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a highly schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2 showing the trajectory followed by a large printing plate. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is another schematic perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2 with the operating arm in position for coupling to the miniature plate. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a highly schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4 showing the trajectory followed by a small printing plate. [Figure 6A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the means for engaging the plate in an upper position; [Figure 6B] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the means for engaging the plate in a lowered position; [Figure 7A] FIG. 2 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a table. [Figure 7B] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the table. [Figure 8A] 1 is a perspective view of a plate being moved by an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for aligning a leading edge of a plate; [Figure 8B] 1 is a perspective view of a plate being moved by an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for aligning a leading edge of a plate; [Figure 8C] 1 is a perspective view of a plate being moved by an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for aligning a leading edge of a plate; [Figure 9] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for aligning a leading edge of a plate; [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a schematic top view of another embodiment of an apparatus for aligning and / or centering a plate. [Figure 11] 1 is a schematic side view of another exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for aligning a leading edge of a plate; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0077] 1 shows a system for moving a flexible plate P, in particular a printing plate or printing plate master, on a support surface 106 from a first processing station S1 (shown diagrammatically as a rectangle) towards a second processing station S2 (shown diagrammatically as a rectangle), such as a cleaning station. The system comprises a support 100, an articulated operating arm 200 and control means 410, 420, 430. The support 100, typically a table, is configured to support the plate P on the support surface 106 of the table 100. The table 100 is arranged upstream of the second processing station S2. The articulated operating arm 200 extends substantially parallel to the support surface 106 and comprises at least a first segment 210 and a second segment 220. The first segment 210 has a first end 211 rotatably connected to said second segment 220 about a first axis of rotation A1 substantially perpendicular to the support surface 106, and a second end 212 provided with plate engaging means 250 configured to contact the plate P such that movement of the operating arm 200 causes sliding of the plate P over the support surface 106. The second segment 220 is rotatable about a second axis of rotation A2 substantially perpendicular to the support surface 106. The control means 410, 420, 430 are configured to control the plate engaging means and to control the rotation of the first and second segments 210, 220 of the articulated operating arm 200 such that the plate slides over the support surface 106 in the direction of the second processing station S2. The arm 200 can be used to slide, i.e. move, or push or pull, the plate P over the support surface 106, while the plate P can be rotated about the first movable axis of rotation A1 and the second fixed axis of rotation A2, resulting in any desired movement pattern of the plate. Preferably, the weight of the plate engagement means 250 bears on the support surface 106 while the plate is sliding over it, thus exerting a downward force on the plate P.

[0078] Preferably, the plate engaging means 250 is configured to couple the first segment to the plate by suction, adhesion or friction, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the plate engaging means rests on the plate by gravity.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, the support comprises a first table part 110, a second table part 120 and a third table part 130. The first processing station S1 is arranged at the edge of the first table part 110. The second table part 120 is arranged downstream of said first table part 110, seen in the machine transport direction towards the second processing station S2. The first table part 110 is hinged about a pivot axis AT1 so that it can be folded down to allow the operator access to the first processing station S1. The third table part 130 is arranged downstream of the second table part 120, and the second processing station S2 is arranged at the edge of the third table part 130. The third table part 130 is hinged about a pivot axis AT3 so that it can be folded down to allow the operator access to the second processing station S2.

[0080] The control means comprises a first actuation means 410 for controlling the rotation of the first segment 210 relative to the second segment 220 and a second actuation means 420 for controlling the rotation of the second segment 220 about the second axis of rotation A2. The plate engaging means 250 is arranged rotatably about a third axis of rotation A3 perpendicular to the support surface 106. The control means comprises an actuation means 430 configured to rotate the plate engaging means 250 about the third axis of rotation A3. This allows the plate engaging means 250 to be coupled to the plate P in any desired orientation, thereby improving the force exerted on the plate while sliding it over the support surface 106.

[0081] Either the plate engaging means 250 or the entire arm 200 may be movable in a direction perpendicular to the support surface 106 between a contact position, in which the plate engaging means 250 contacts the plate, and a non-contact position, in which the plate engaging means 250 is at a distance above the plate. The control means may then comprise actuation means (not shown) configured to move at least the plate engaging means 250, and optionally the entire operating arm 200, between the contact and non-contact positions.

[0082] Fig. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment similar to that of Fig. 1, where identical or similar parts are indicated with the same reference numbers. Fig. 2 shows that the control means may be configured to control the articulated arm 200 such that a rotation of the plate P of more than approximately 90° is performed while pulling or pushing the plate P from the first processing station S1 to the second processing station S2. In Fig. 2, a large plate P is shown in which the orientation of the plate is changed from a position in which the shortest direction of the plate is oriented in the machine transport direction when coming from station S1 to a position in which the longest direction of the plate is oriented in the machine transport direction when entering S2. For example, the first station S1 may be an exposure station and the second station S2 may be a cleaning station.

[0083] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a first mode of operation of the embodiment of FIG. 2, which includes the following sequence of steps: coupling the plate engagement means 250 to the plate P at a first location LC1 of the plate (see plate position 1 on the left side of FIG. 3 ), - moving the plate P according to a first trajectory T1, here a substantially linear movement; - separating the plate engaging means 250 from the plate, which is performed at the second position 2 of the plate; while the plate is still in the second position 2, engaging the plate engagement means 250 with the plate at a second location LC2 of the plate which is different from the first location; moving the plate according to a second trajectory T2 including a rotation of the plate through approximately 90 degrees (see positions 3 and 4 shown in FIG. 3 ); 1 shows an example in which

[0084] Such an operating mode can be used for large plates P that need to be rotated.

[0085] The first location LC1 is near, and preferably at a substantially central location of, the leading edge LE of the plate P. The second location LC2 is located to one side of the centerline L1, L2 of the plate, and preferably within the leading quarter Q closest to the second axis of rotation A2 (see FIG. 2).

[0086] Figure 4 shows the embodiment of Figure 4 in different positions of the operating arm 200. Figure 2 shows that the control means can be configured to control the articulated arm 200 such that for small plates P only one of the suction means of the plate engagement means 250 (see also the following description of Figures 6A and 6B) is used.

[0087] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a second mode of operation of the embodiment of FIGS. 2 and 4, which includes the following sequence of steps: - coupling the plate engagement means to the plate (see plate position 1' in FIG. 5), - moving the plate according to a trajectory involving rotation and translation of the plate (see plate positions 2' and 3' in FIG. 5 ); - separating the plate engagement means from the plate (see plate position 4' in FIG. 5), 1 shows an example in which

[0088] In other words, here the plate P follows a continuous movement without changing the bonding location. Especially for smaller plates, such a mode of operation may be preferable.

[0089] Preferably, the control means is configured to control the operating arm 200 depending on the size of the plate P. For example, the control means may be configured to determine whether the plate is larger than a predetermined size, and to execute the sequence of steps in Fig. 3 if the plate is determined to be larger than the predetermined size, and to execute the sequence of steps in Fig. 5 if the plate is determined to be equal to or smaller than the predetermined size.

[0090] 6A and 6B show an exemplary embodiment of a suitable plate engagement means 250. The means for engaging the plate 250 comprises a bracket 253 on which two suction cups 251, 252 are arranged. In a preferred embodiment, each suction cup 251, 252 has a part with a flat underside, intended to come into contact with the plate and made of a porous material, for example porous metal, ceramic or plastic. However, as described in the overview, other plate engagement means 250 may be used. For example, the suction cups 251, 252 may be replaced by two contact heads, each having a contact surface configured to be pressed against the plate. In that case, the control means may be configured to press one or more contact heads against the plate, such that friction and / or adhesion between the heads and the plate allows the sliding of the plate over the support surface 106 by the operating arm 200.

[0091] 6A and 6B, the plate engaging means 250 is movable in a direction perpendicular to the support surface 106 between a contact position, in which the plate engaging means 250 is in contact with the plate, and a non-contact position, in which the plate engaging means 250 is at a distance above the plate. The control means comprises an actuation means 440 configured to move the plate engaging means 250 between the contact position and the non-contact position.

[0092] In the embodiment of Figs. 1-5, the support table 100 may be provided with a plurality of holes (not shown) and the system may further comprise blowing means (not shown) configured to blow gas through said holes in the direction of the plate P supported on the table 100 in order to reduce friction between the plate P and the table 100. In this way, the force required to slide the plate over the support surface 106 may be reduced. Additionally or alternatively, as shown in Figs. 7A and 7B, the table 100 may comprise a passive ball transfer conveyor comprising a plurality of rotatably mounted balls 105 projecting from the support surface 106. The plurality of balls 105 may be arranged along a regular grid, for example at equal distances from each other as seen in the machine transport direction. Preferably, the distance between adjacent balls 105 of the plurality of balls is 5-50 cm. Preferably, the diameter of the plurality of balls 105 is 5-50 mm. Preferably, the plurality of balls 105 projects from the support surface 106 over a height of less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, for example 1-4 mm. Preferably, the support surface 106 between the plurality of balls 105 is a flat surface.

[0093] Optionally, the system of Figures 1-6 further comprises a detection assembly configured to detect datums representative of the position of the plate, and the control means configured to control the rotation of the plate engagement means 250 and / or the first and / or second segments 210, 220 in response to the datums detected by the detection assembly. The detection assembly may be configured to detect whether the plate is correctly aligned at the entrance of the second processing station S2. One embodiment of a possible detection assembly is described below.

[0094] Preferably, the articulating movement arm 200 and control means 410, 420, 430, 440 are configured to move a plate having a weight between 6 and 30 kg, ie a relatively heavy plate resting on the support surface 106 during movement.

[0095] 8A-8C and 9 show a first exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for registering the edge of a plate P, in particular a printing plate or printing plate master. FIGS. 8A-8C show successive method steps and FIG. 9 shows a perspective view, partially cut away, to better show the mobile elements 501, 502 of the apparatus. The apparatus comprises a support 100, here a table, two mobile elements 501, 502, detection means 601, 602, at least one controllable component 200 (for example the operating arm 200 shown in FIGS. 1-6) and control means 700. The support 100 is configured to support the plate on the support surface 106 and is intended to be arranged upstream of a processing station, for example the second station S2 shown diagrammatically in FIGS. 1 and 2. The two mobile elements 501, 502 are arranged to be moved by the leading edge LE of the plate P. The two mobile elements comprise a first and a second mobile element 501, 502. The detection means 601, 602 are configured to detect first and second criterions representing the first and second positions of the first and second movable elements, respectively. At least one controllable component 200, e.g., the moving means, is configured to perform an operation on the plate. The control means 700 is configured to control the at least one controllable component based on the first and second criterion. For example, the movement of the plate P may be controlled by the control means depending on the first and second criterion measured by the detection means 601, 602. For example, the moving means 200 may be configured to rotate the plate about an axis perpendicular to the support surface 106 to improve the alignment, and the plate may be determined to be aligned when the difference between the first and second criterion falls below a predefined threshold.

[0096] The moving means 200 may be configured to rotate the plate about an axis perpendicular to the support surface 106 and to translate the plate parallel to the support surface 106. In that case, the control means may be configured to first translate and / or rotate the plate until the edge contacts the at least two movable elements, after which the plate may be further rotated until the difference between the first and second datum falls below a predefined threshold, after which the plate may be further translated above or below the at least two movable elements.

[0097] The movable elements 501, 502 are arranged to protrude through the support surface 106 at the starting position Ps of the movable elements 501, 502. Such an embodiment has the advantage that the movable elements do not interfere with other components and that detection can take place below the support surface 106.

[0098] In the embodiment of Figures 8A-8C and 9, the mobile elements 501, 502 are two pivotable pins arranged to be pivoted by the edge of the plate. The pivotable elements can easily be mounted either in or above the support so as to protrude through the support surface 106, and the angle at which the pivotable elements pivot is a direct and accurate measure of the location of the contact point with the edge. The detection means 601, 602 are configured to detect first and second references representing the first and second angles of the first and second pivotable pins 501, 502. The pivotable pins 501, 502 extend partially below and above the support surface 106 in the starting position Ps, and the detection means 601, 602, for example angle detection means, are provided below the support surface 106 where they are not affected by measurement disturbance factors.

[0099] In a start position Ps before being contacted by the edge of the plate, the at least two pins 501, 502 are directed in an upstream direction Du, preferably at an angle of 15 to 75 degrees with respect to the support surface 106 (see Figures 8A and 9). In this way, for example, the pins can be moved gradually from a start position Ps, where the pins point in the upstream direction Du, to a position perpendicular to the support surface 106, to an end position Pe, where the pins are directed in a downstream direction Dd and the plate can move over the pins (see Figures 8C and 9).

[0100] Biasing means, here a counterweight 505 attached to each pivotable pin 501, 502, are configured to exert a force in the upstream direction Du against the edge of the plate. An optional further biasing means, here a piston 520, is provided to urge the pivotable pins 501, 502 to an end position Pe, for example when the pins are not in use. The end position Pe is preferably below the support surface 106 to avoid damage.

[0101] The pivotable pins 501, 502 are pivotally arranged about a pivot axis A, which is arranged at a distance d more than 5 cm below or above the support surface 106, preferably more than 10 cm below or above the support surface 106. In this way, the plate P can move over a relatively large distance above the support surface 106 while maintaining contact with the pivotable pins 501, 502. This leads to a further improvement in the accuracy of the plate alignment.

[0102] The support 100 is a support table provided with two slits 101, 102 through which two pivotable pins 501, 502 protrude. The slits 501, 502 are elongated slits dimensioned such that the pivotable pins can move from a start position Ps, where the pins point in the upstream direction Du, to a position where the pins point in the downstream direction Dd, and optionally to an end position Pe, where the pins are located below or flush with the support surface 106.

[0103] Each pivotable pin comprises a first elongated portion 510 and a second elongated portion 511, the second elongated portion 511 being at an angle of 120-175 degrees to the first elongated portion 510. The second elongated portion 511 extends at least partially above the support surface 106 when in the start position Ps, while at the same time the first elongated portion 510 extends below the support surface 106. This allows the length of the slit to be shortened whilst still allowing the pins 501, 502 to be hidden within the support 100.

[0104] Optionally, as shown in FIG. 9, the support 100 may be configured such that the support surface 106 is an inclined surface, for example when the processing station downstream of the movable elements 501, 502 is a cleaning station.

[0105] Optionally, the at least one controllable component comprises any one or more of the following: a moving means, a punching means, a plate binding means, a plate gripping means. The moving means 200 may be an operating arm as described above, but may also comprise any one or more of the following: at least one robotic arm, a set of rollers, a set of chains, a set of belts.

[0106] Preferably, the control means 700 is configured to compare the first criterion with the second criterion and determine that the edges of the plate are aligned or the plate is centered if the difference between the first criterion and the second criterion is less than a predetermined threshold.

[0107] Preferably, the distance between the first movable element 501 and the second movable element 502 is in the range of 10 cm to 1000 cm, preferably 10 to 500 cm, more preferably 10 to 100 cm.

[0108] 10 shows an exemplary embodiment in a top view with two movable elements 501, 502 for aligning the leading edge of the plate moving in the machine transport direction and one or two further movable elements 503, 504 for centering the plate in a direction perpendicular to the machine transport direction. It should be noted that only one of the movable elements 503, 504 can be used. Here, the movable elements 501, 502 are pivotable pins that pivot in a plane parallel to the machine transport direction and perpendicular to the support surface 106, while the further pin or pins 503, 504 used for centering the plate can pivot in a plane perpendicular to the machine transport direction and perpendicular to the support surface 106. More generally, the pivotable pin 501 can be oriented in any suitable direction depending on the detection to be performed.

[0109] FIG. 11 shows another exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for detecting or locating a plate P, in particular a printing plate or printing plate precursor. The apparatus comprises a support 100, here a table, a pivotable pin 501, a detection means 601, for example an angle detector, a controllable component 200 and a control means 700. The support 100 is configured to support the plate on a support surface. The pivotable pin 501 is arranged to be displaced by an edge of the plate P. The detection means 601 is configured to detect a datum representative of the position of the pivotable pin 501. The controllable component 200, for example a displacement means, is configured to perform an action on the plate. The control means 700 is configured to control the controllable component on the basis of the datum. For example, the displacement means 200 can be configured to translate the plate in the support surface and / or to rotate the plate around an axis perpendicular to the support surface 106 according to the datum. In this example, the pin 501 is arranged with its pivot axis above the support surface and the detection is performed above the support surface. However, it is also possible to provide the detection means 601 below the surface. As in the embodiment of Figures 8A-8C, when the edge of the plate P contacts the pin 501, the pin 501 will move from a start position Ps to an end position Pe, where the end position Pe is a position above the support 100 high enough for the plate P to pass underneath. Optionally, biasing means (not shown) may be provided to bias the pin 501 to the start position Ps or to the end position Pe.

[0110] Examples of suitable detection means 601, 602 include angle sensors, proximity switches, photo sensors, mechanical switches, magnetic switches, cameras, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the detection means comprises first and second detectors 601, 602 for performing detection on the first and second moving elements respectively. However, certain detection means, such as cameras, may be used when both the first and second moving elements are visible.

[0111] The apparatus of Figures 8-11 may be used in a system further comprising a processing station downstream of the support and configured to receive the aligned plate. The processing in the processing station may be selected from the group including washing, brushing, rinsing, spraying, drying, irradiating, developing, heating, cooling, removing material, treating with a gas or liquid, sanding, cutting, treating with electromagnetic waves, ablation, measuring, and combinations thereof.

[0112] A relief plate master generally comprises a support layer made of a first material and an additional layer made of a second material different from said first material. The support layer may be a flexible metal, a natural or artificial polymer, paper, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the support layer is a flexible metal or polymer film or sheet. In the case of a flexible metal, the support layer may comprise a thin film, a sieve-like structure, a mesh-like structure, a woven or non-woven structure, or a combination thereof. Steel, copper, nickel, or aluminum sheets are preferred and may be about 50 to 1000 μm thick. In the case of a polymer film, the film is dimensionally stable but bendable and may be made, for example, from polyalkylenes, polyesters, polyethylene terephthalates, polybutylene terephthalates, polyamides and polycarbonates, woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, or polymers reinforced with layered fibers (e.g., glass fibers, carbon fibers, polymer fibers), or a combination thereof. Preferably, polyethylene and polyester foils are used, the thickness of which may be in the range of about 100-300 μm, preferably 100-200 μm. The relief plate master may support additional layers. For example, the additional layer may be any one of the following: a directly engravable layer (e.g., by laser), a solvent or water developable layer, a thermally developable layer, a photosensitive layer, a combination of a photosensitive layer and a mask layer. Optionally, one or more additional layers may be provided on top of the additional layer. Such one or more further additional layers may include a cover layer on top of all other layers that is removed before the imageable layer is imaged. The one or more additional layers may include a relief layer and an antihalation layer between the support layer and the relief layer or on the side of the support layer opposite the relief layer. The one or more additional layers may include the relief layer, the imageable layer, and one or more barrier layers that prevent diffusion of oxygen between the relief layer and the imageable layer. Between the different layers mentioned above, one or more adhesive layers may be disposed which ensures proper adhesion of the different layers.

[0113] While the principles of the present invention have been described above with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood that this description is made purely by way of example and not as a limitation on the scope of protection determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system for moving a flexible plate (P), in particular a printing plate or a printing plate precursor, over a support surface towards a processing station (S2), such as a washing station, comprising: The system comprises a support (100), an articulated operating arm (200) and a control means, said support (100) is configured to support said plate on its support surface and is intended to be arranged upstream of said processing station, the working arm (200) extends substantially parallel to the support surface and comprises at least a first segment (210) and a second segment (220); The first segment (210) comprises: a first end (211) rotatably connected to the second segment about a first axis of rotation (A1) substantially perpendicular to the support surface; a second end (212) provided with plate engaging means (250) configured to contact the plate such that movement of the operating arm causes sliding of the plate over the support surface; having the second segment (220) is rotatable about a second axis of rotation (A2) substantially perpendicular to the support surface; The control means is configured to control rotation of the first segment and the second segment of the articulated operating arm and to control the plate engagement means so that the plate slides on the support towards the processing station.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the plate engaging means is configured to couple the first segment to the plate by suction, adhesion and / or friction.

3. 3. A system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control means is configured to control the articulated operating arm such that a rotation through substantially 90° is performed while pulling or pushing the plate towards the processing station.

4. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plate engagement means comprises one or more suction cups (251, 252).

5. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the plate engagement means comprises one or more contact heads, each of said contact heads having a contact surface configured to be pressed against the plate, and the control means is configured to press the one or more contact heads against the plate such that friction and / or adhesion between the one or more contact surfaces and the plate enables sliding of the plate over the support surface by the operating arm.

6. 6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the support is a table provided with a plurality of holes, the system further comprising blowing means configured to blow gas through the holes in the direction of the plate supported on the table to reduce friction between the plate and the table.

7. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the support comprises a passive ball transfer conveyor comprising a plurality of rotatably mounted balls projecting from the support surface.

8. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the distance between adjacent balls in the plurality of balls is between 5 and 50 cm, and / or the diameter of the plurality of balls is between 5 and 50 mm, and / or the plurality of balls protrude from the support surface by a height of less than 10 mm.

9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the support comprises at least a first table part (110) and a second table part (120), the processing station is a second processing station, the first processing station is arranged at an edge of the first table part and the second table part is arranged downstream of the first table part in the machine transport direction towards the second processing station, and the first table part is movable so that it can be removed or folded to allow an operator to access the first processing station.

10. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the support further comprises a third table portion (130) positioned downstream of the second table portion, the second processing station being positioned on an edge of the third table portion, and the third table portion being movable so that it can be removed or folded to allow an operator to access the second processing station.

11. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the control means comprises first actuation means (410) for controlling the rotation of the first segment relative to the second segment and second actuation means (420) for controlling the rotation of the second segment about the second axis of rotation (A2).

12. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plate engaging means is arranged to be rotatable about a third axis of rotation (A3) perpendicular to the support surface.

13. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein said control means comprises actuation means (430) configured to rotate said plate engaging means (250) about said third axis of rotation (A3).

14. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein at least the plate engaging means is movable in a direction perpendicular to the support surface between a contact position in which the plate engaging means contacts the plate and a non-contact position in which the plate engaging means is at a distance above the plate.

15. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein said control means comprises actuation means (440) configured to move at least said plate engagement means (250) between said contact position and said non-contact position.

16. The control means is adapted to cause the following sequence of steps to be carried out: coupling said plate engaging means to said plate at a first location (LC1) of said plate; moving said plate according to a first trajectory (T1); separating the plate engaging means from the plate; coupling said plate engaging means to said plate at a second location (LC2) of said plate different from said first location; moving the plate according to a second trajectory (T2); The system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, configured to control the working arm such that:

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein the moving of the plate according to a first trajectory (T1) is a substantially linear movement.

18. 18. The system according to claim 16 or 17, wherein moving the plate according to a second trajectory (T2) involves a rotation of the plate through substantially 90 degrees.

19. The system according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the first location (LC1) is a location near a leading edge (LE) of the plate.

20. The system according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the second location (LC2) is located on one side of a centre line (L1) of the plate.

21. The control means is adapted to cause the following sequence of steps to be carried out: coupling said plate engaging means to said plate; moving the plate according to a trajectory including a rotation and / or a translation of the plate; separating said plate engaging means from said plate; The system of any one of claims 1 to 20, configured to control the working arm such that:

22. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control means is arranged to control the working arms depending on the size of the plate.

23. The system according to claim 22, wherein the control means is configured to determine whether the plate is larger than a predetermined size, and if it is determined that the plate is larger than the predetermined size, to perform a series of steps according to any one of claims 15 to 19, and if it is determined that the plate is not larger than the predetermined size, to perform a series of steps according to claim 20.

24. a detection assembly configured to detect a fiducial indicative of a position of the plate; The system of any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the control means is configured to control the plate engagement means and / or to control rotation of the first segment and / or the second segment depending on the criterion detected by the detection assembly.

25. 25. The system of claim 24, wherein the detection assembly is configured to detect whether the plate is properly aligned at an entrance to the processing station.

26. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein the articulated operating arm and control means are configured to move a plate having a weight in the range of 6 to 30 kg.

27. 1. A method for moving a flexible plate (P), in particular a printing plate or printing plate precursor, over a support surface towards a processing station, such as a washing station, comprising: supporting the plate on a support surface located upstream of the processing station; sliding the plate over the support surface using an articulated operating arm (200), the articulated operating arm comprising at least a first segment (210) extending substantially parallel to the support surface and having a plate engagement means (250), and a second segment (220) rotatably connected to the first segment about a first axis of rotation (A1) substantially perpendicular to the support surface, the second segment being rotatable about a second axis of rotation (A2) substantially perpendicular to the support surface; controlling rotation of the first segment and the second segment of the articulated operating arm such that the plate slides over the support surface toward the processing station; A method comprising:

28. The controlling step comprises the following sequence of steps: coupling said plate engaging means to said plate at a first location (LC1) of said plate; moving said plate according to a first trajectory (T1); separating the plate engaging means from the plate; coupling said plate engaging means to said plate at a second location (LC2) of said plate different from said first location; moving the plate according to a second trajectory (T2); 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the method is performed such that:

29. 29. The method of claim 28, wherein moving the plate according to the first trajectory (T1) is a substantially linear movement.

30. 30. The method according to claim 28 or 29, wherein moving the plate according to the second trajectory (T2) involves a rotation of the plate through substantially 90 degrees.

31. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 30, wherein the first location (LC1) is a location near a leading edge (LE) of the plate.

32. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 31, wherein the second location (LC2) is located on one side of a centre line (L1) of the plate.

33. The controlling step is performed such that the following sequence of steps is performed: coupling said plate engaging means to said plate; moving the plate according to a trajectory including a rotation and / or a translation of the plate; separating said plate engaging means from said plate; 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the method is performed such that:

34. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 33, wherein the controlling step comprises controlling the working arm depending on the size of the plate.

35. The method according to claim 34, wherein it is determined whether the plate is larger than a predetermined size, and if it is determined that the plate is larger than the predetermined size, a series of steps according to any one of claims 27 to 31 is performed, and if it is determined that the plate is not larger than the predetermined size, a series of steps according to claim 32 is performed.

36. detecting a reference indicative of the position of the plate; The method according to any one of claims 27 to 35, wherein the controlling step comprises controlling a rotation of the first segment and / or the second segment depending on the detected criterion.

37. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein the step of detecting includes detecting whether the plate is properly registered at an entrance to the processing station.

Images