Apparatus and method for manipulating plates

Abstract

An apparatus for registering the edge of a plate, in particular a printing plate or printing plate precursor, is provided, comprising a support 100 configured to support the plate on a support surface and intended to be placed upstream of a processing station, at least first and second movable elements 501, 502 arranged to be driven by an edge, typically the leading edge, of the plate, detection means 601, 602 configured to detect first and second datums representative of first and second positions of the first and second movable elements, respectively, at least one controllable component 100, 250 configured to act on the plate, and control means 700 configured to control the at least one controllable component on the basis of the first and second datum.

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 particularly, 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 must 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, removing material, treating with gases or liquids, sanding, cutting, treating with electromagnetic waves, and combinations thereof.

[0003] For flexographic printing, automated plate movement has been used for transporting plates within cleaning stations and for subsequent process steps. For example, plates are moved from an imaging station to a curing station to a cleaning station. Known systems may use conveyor belts. Furthermore, carrier bars may be used to move the printing plate precursor, for example, through a cleaning station. For this purpose, a series of through-holes may be provided in certain areas of the printing plate precursor, such as at a 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 printing plates between different processing stations, the printing plates may need to be aligned and / or translated and / or rotated. Existing automated plate transport systems are not suitable for all steps. In particular, when plates need to be aligned and / or rotated, a human operator may often need 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, there is provided an apparatus for aligning the edge of a plate, particularly a printing plate or printing plate precursor. 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 disposed upstream of a processing station, such as a washing station. The at least two movable elements are configured to be moved by an edge, typically a leading edge, of the plate. The at least two movable elements comprise first and second movable elements. The detection means is 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 action on the plate. The control means is configured to control the at least one controllable component based on the first and second criteria.

[0008] At least two movable elements, in combination with a detection means, can be used to determine whether the edges of a plate are aligned by detecting first and second fiducials representing first and second positions of the first and second movable elements. This is a robust and simple means that can be easily added to any support and provides 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 edges are detected directly, for example using optical sensors, embodiments of the present invention have the advantage that the detection means can be positioned so that it is not affected by changes in environmental conditions, such as the image on the plate, because the detection means detects fiducials representing the positions of the movable elements.

[0009] Preferably, the at least two movable elements are arranged so that they protrude through the support surface at the start 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 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 in response to 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 is below a predetermined 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 which case the control means may be configured to first translate and / or rotate the plate until an 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 is below a predetermined threshold, after which the plate may be further translated above or below the 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 in or above the support so as to protrude through the support surface, 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.

[0013] More preferably, the at least two pivotable pins comprise first and second pivotable pins, and the detection means is configured to detect first and second references representing first and second angles of the first and second pivotable pins. The at least two pivotable pins may extend below and above the support surface, and the detection means, e.g., the angle detection means, may be provided either below the support surface where it is not affected by measurement disturbance factors, or above the support away from the support surface, preferably so as not to be 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 orient themselves in an upstream direction when not touched by the edge of the plate, preferably at an angle of 15 to 75 degrees relative to the support surface. In this way, for example, the pins can be gradually moved from a first starting position where the pins point in an upstream direction (i.e., toward the approaching edge) to a position perpendicular to the support surface, to a position where the pins are pointed in a 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 their end positions, 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 disposed about a pivot axis, the pivot axis being disposed 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. In fact, 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 plate registration.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the at least two movable elements and the support are configured so that when the plate passes above or below the at least two movable elements, the at least two movable elements can be moved below or sufficiently above the support surface, or flush with the support surface. Such an embodiment is particularly useful when it is desirable to first align the plate moving in the machine transport direction and then further move the plate in the machine transport direction over 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 sufficiently above the support surface. In that case, the punching action can be performed when the difference between the first and second references falls below a predetermined threshold, and the plate can then 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 movable elements protrude. If the movable elements are pivotable pins, the slits may be dimensioned such that the pivotable pins can move from a rest position in which the pins point in an upstream direction to a position in which the pins point in a 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 are provided below the support surface. In this way, the detection means are not disturbed by changing circumstances 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 near the pivot axis of the pivotable pin. According to another embodiment, the detection means are provided above the support surface, preferably so as not to be affected by the characteristics of the plate.

[0021] According to exemplary embodiments, 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 binding 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 position the plate so that the leading edge is oriented substantially perpendicular to the machine transport direction in which the plate is intended to move through the device.

[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. In 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 reference of the pin contacting the side edge is within a predetermined range.

[0026] According to an exemplary embodiment, the moving means comprises an articulated operating 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 plate engaging means at an end of the articulated operating arm, said 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 plate engaging means may be suction means, 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 plate edges are aligned or the plate is centered if the difference between the first criterion and the second criterion is less than a predetermined threshold.

[0028] Preferably, the distance between the first movable element and the second movable element 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, photosensors, 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 capable of viewing both the first and second moving elements.

[0033] In an embodiment in which the at least one controllable component comprises a punching means, the punching means may comprise a driving means configured to place one or more piercing or perforating elements through or into the edge of the plate. The driving means may, for example, be a hammer movably arranged such that the driving means can engage against the edge of the relief plate blank 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 the edge of a plate, in particular a printing plate or printing plate precursor, the 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 arranged below the support surface, and at least one controllable element configured to perform an action on the plate; and control means configured to control the at least one controllable element based on the at least one criterion. Preferably, at least one pivotable pin protrudes through the support surface.

[0035] An embodiment with 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 the plate moves relative to, and optionally above or below, the pivotable pin.

[0036] Any one of the features of the pivotable pin, the detection means, the controllable component, the support and the control means 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-described 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 washing, brushing, rinsing, spraying, drying, irradiating, developing, heating, cooling, removing material, treating with gas or liquid, sanding, cutting, treating with electromagnetic waves, ablation, measuring, and combinations thereof.

[0039] According to an exemplary embodiment, the processing in 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, nonwoven material, or foil with molten material attached, which continuously removes the liquefied portion.

[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 so that its edges are in contact with at least two movable elements; detecting the positions of at least two moving elements; controlling the means of transportation 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 said end position. Alternatively, the at least two movable elements may be arranged above the support surface and may move upward 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 includes rotating and / or translating the plate until 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.

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

[0046] Preferably, the moving step includes a step of moving the plate so that its leading edge contacts at least two movable elements, and the method further includes a step of feeding the plate to a processing unit when it is detected that the 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 that they are positioned above the plate when the plate is fed into 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 that 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, particularly a printing plate or printing plate precursor, over a support surface toward a processing station is provided. The system includes 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 positioned upstream of the processing station. The articulated operating arm extends generally parallel to the support surface and includes 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 generally 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 the plate to slide over the support surface. The second segment is rotatable about the second axis of rotation generally perpendicular to the support surface. The control means is configured to control the plate engaging means and to control rotation of the first and second segments of the articulated operating arm so that the plate slides over the support surface toward the processing station.

[0051] Such an articulating 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 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 portion intended to come into contact with the plate, said portion being made of a porous material, preferably porous metal, ceramic or plastic. Preferably, the portion intended to come into contact with the plate is substantially flat.

[0054] In another exemplary embodiment, the plate engagement means includes one or more contact heads, preferably at least 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 the one or more contact heads against the plate so 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. For example, the contact surface may be made of a material that "sticks" to the plate when pressure is applied without leaving marks on the plate. For example, a pressure-sensitive adhesive 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 being transported, for example, from an exposure station to a cleaning station.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the support is a table provided with a plurality 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 is 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 protruding from a support surface. The plurality of balls may be arranged along a regular grid, e.g., at equal distances from one another in the machine conveying direction. Preferably, the distance between adjacent balls in the plurality of balls is 5 to 50 cm. Preferably, the diameter of the plurality of balls is 5 to 50 mm. Preferably, the plurality of balls protrude from the support surface by a height of less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, e.g., 1 to 4 mm. Preferably, the support surface between the plurality of balls is flat. Preferably, the plate engaging means rests on the plate by gravity. If a ball is present below the plate engaging means, the plate engaging means may move slightly upward when overcoming the ball. However, since the plate is typically compressible, such upward movement is usually negligible.

[0058] According to an exemplary embodiment, the support comprises at least first and second table portions, the processing station being a second processing station, the first processing station being located at an edge of the first table portion, the second table portion being located downstream of the first table portion in the machine transport direction toward the second processing station, the first table portion being movable, preferably hinged, so that the first table portion can be removed or folded to allow an operator access to the first processing station. Optionally, the support further comprises a third table portion located downstream of the second table portion, the second processing station being located at an edge of the third table portion. The third table portion being movable, preferably hinged, so that the third table portion can be removed or folded to allow an operator access to 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 as it slides 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. In that case, the control means may comprise actuation means configured to move at least the plate engaging means, and optionally the entire working arm, between the contact position and the non-contact position.

[0062] According to an exemplary embodiment, the control means, in a first mode of operation, performs the following sequence of steps: coupling a plate engaging means to the plate at a first location on the plate; - moving the plate according to a first trajectory, which may be, for example, a substantially linear movement; - separating the plate engaging means from the plate; coupling the plate engaging means to the plate at a second location on the plate that is different from the first location; moving the plate according to a second trajectory, optionally wherein 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 can be near the leading edge of the plate, preferably substantially in the center of the leading edge of the plate. The second location can be located to one side of the plate's centerline, preferably in the quarter closest to the second axis of rotation, e.g., in the leading quarter. Selecting such locations can provide sufficient force distribution, for example, when the first trajectory is linear in the machine transport direction and the second trajectory is rotational.

[0065] According to an exemplary embodiment, the control means, in another mode of operation, 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 movement without changing the coupling location. Such a mode of operation may be preferable, especially for smaller plates or for linear movements.

[0067] Preferably, the control means is configured to control the operating arm in accordance with 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 if it is determined that the plate is larger than the predetermined size, to execute the series of steps in the first operating mode described above, and if it is determined that the plate is equal to or smaller than the predetermined size, to execute the series of steps in the other operating mode described above.

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises a detection assembly configured to detect a datum indicative of the position of the plate, and the control means is configured to control the rotation of the plate engaging 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 to the processing station. For example, one embodiment of the device with movable elements described above may be used for this purpose.

[0069] Preferably, the articulating arm and control means are configured 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 printing plate precursor, over a support surface towards a processing station, such as a washing station, the method comprising: - supporting the plate on a support surface arranged upstream of the processing station; - sliding the plate over a support surface using an articulating operating arm, the articulating operating 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 rotation of the first and second segments of the articulating arm such that the plate slides over the support surface toward the processing station; A method is provided, comprising:

[0071] In an exemplary embodiment, the controlling step is performed such that the following sequence of steps is performed: coupling the plate engaging means to the plate at a first location on the plate, moving the plate according to a first trajectory, decoupling 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 according to a second trajectory. Preferred features regarding this sequence of steps are described above for the system embodiment and are also applicable to the method.

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

[0073] Preferably, the controlling step includes controlling the operating arm according to the size of the plate, for example, if the plate is larger than a predetermined size, a first series of steps may be executed, and if it is determined that the plate is equal to or smaller than the predetermined size, a second series of steps may be executed.

[0074] Optionally, the method further comprises detecting a datum indicative of a position of the plate, and wherein 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 with an entrance of 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. These 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 explanation of the drawings]

[0076] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a system for moving printing plates; [Figure 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. [Figure 3] 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] 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. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a highly schematic top view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4 showing the trajectory followed by the miniature printing plate; [Figure 6A] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the means for engaging the plate in the upper position; [Figure 6B] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the means for engaging the plate in a lowered position; [Figure 7A] FIG. 1 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 the 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 the 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 the 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. 10 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 INVENTION

[0077] 1 shows a system for moving a flexible plate P, in particular a printing plate or printing plate precursor, on a support surface 106 from a first processing station S1 (shown schematically as a rectangle) to a second processing station S2 (shown schematically as a rectangle), such as a cleaning station. The system comprises a support 100, an articulating 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 articulating 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 that is substantially perpendicular to the support surface 106, and a second end 212 that is 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 that is substantially perpendicular to the support surface 106. 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 so 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 engaging 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 portion 110, a second table portion 120, and a third table portion 130. The first processing station S1 is located at an edge of the first table portion 110. The second table portion 120 is located downstream of the first table portion 110 in the machine transport direction toward the second processing station S2. The first table portion 110 is hinged about a pivot axis AT1 so that it can be folded down to allow an operator access to the first processing station S1. The third table portion 130 is located downstream of the second table portion 120, and the second processing station S2 is located at an edge of the third table portion 130. The third table portion 130 is hinged about a pivot axis AT3 so that it can be folded down to allow an 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 to be rotatable 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 as it slides 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. In that case, the control means may 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 position and the non-contact position.

[0082] Figure 2 shows an exemplary embodiment similar to that of Figure 1, with identical or similar parts designated by the same reference numerals. Figure 2 shows that the control means can be configured to control the articulated arm 200 so that a rotation of the plate P of more than approximately 90° is performed while pulling or pushing the plate P from a first processing station S1 to a second processing station S2. Figure 2 shows a large plate P 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 station S2. For example, the first station S1 can be an exposure station and the second station S2 can be a cleaning station.

[0083] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a first mode of operation of the embodiment of FIG. 2, which comprises the following sequence of steps: coupling the plate engaging 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 carried out 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 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 ); is executed.

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

[0085] The first location LC1 is near, preferably substantially central to, 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, preferably in 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 engaging 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 comprises the following series of steps: - coupling the plate engaging means to the plate (see plate position 1' in Figure 5), - moving the plate according to a trajectory involving rotation and translation of the plate (see plate positions 2' and 3' in Figure 5); - separating the plate engaging means from the plate (see plate position 4' in Figure 5), is executed.

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

[0089] Preferably, the control means is configured to control the operating arm 200 according to 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 if it is determined that the plate is larger than the predetermined size, to execute the series of steps in Fig. 3, and if it is determined that the plate is equal to or smaller than the predetermined size, to execute the series of steps in Fig. 5.

[0090] 6A and 6B show an exemplary embodiment of a suitable plate engaging means 250. The plate engaging means 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 portion with a flat underside that is intended to contact the plate and is made of a porous material, such as porous metal, ceramic, or plastic. However, as described in the overview, other plate engaging 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 so that friction and / or adhesion between the heads and the plate enables 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 include blowing means (not shown) configured to blow gas through the holes toward the plate P supported on the table 100 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 further reduced. Additionally or alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the table 100 may include a passive ball transfer conveyor including a plurality of rotatably mounted balls 105 protruding from the support surface 106. The plurality of balls 105 may be arranged along a regular grid, e.g., at equal distances from one another as viewed in the machine transport direction. Preferably, the distance between adjacent balls 105 of the plurality of balls is 5-50 cm. Preferably, the plurality of balls 105 has a diameter of 5-50 mm. Preferably, the plurality of balls 105 protrudes from the support surface 106 by a height of less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, e.g., 1-4 mm. Preferably, the support surfaces 106 between the plurality of balls 105 are flat surfaces.

[0093] Optionally, the system of Figures 1 to 6 further comprises a detection assembly configured to detect a datum indicative of the position of the plate, and the control means configured to control the rotation of the plate engaging means 250 and / or the first and / or second segments 210, 220 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 second processing station S2. One embodiment of a possible detection assembly is described below.

[0094] Preferably, the articulating arm 200 and control means 410, 420, 430, 440 are configured to move a plate having a weight of 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 aligning the edge of a plate P, in particular a printing plate or printing plate precursor. FIGS. 8A-8C show successive method steps, and FIG. 9 shows a perspective view, partially cut away, to better show the movable elements 501, 502 of the apparatus. The apparatus comprises a support 100 (here a table), two movable elements 501, 502, detection means 601, 602, at least one controllable component 200 (e.g., the operating arm 200 shown in FIGS. 1-6), and control means 700. The support 100 is configured to support the plate on a support surface 106 and is intended to be arranged upstream of a processing station, for example, the second station S2 shown schematically in FIGS. 1 and 2. The two movable elements 501, 502 are arranged to be moved by the leading edge LE of the plate P. The two movable elements comprise first and second movable elements 501, 502. The detection means 601, 602 are configured to detect first and second references representing first and second positions of the first and second movable elements, respectively. At least one controllable component 200, e.g., a moving component, 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 references. For example, the movement of the plate P can be controlled by the control means in response to the first and second references measured by the detection means 601, 602. For example, the moving component 200 can be configured to rotate the plate about an axis perpendicular to the support surface 106 to improve alignment, and the plate can be determined to be aligned when the difference between the first and second references falls below a predetermined 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 edges contact the at least two movable elements, after which the plate may be further rotated until the difference between the first and second references is below a predetermined 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 such that they 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 movable elements 501, 502 are two pivotable pins arranged to be pivoted by the edge of the plate. The pivotable elements can be easily mounted either in or above the support so that they 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 at the starting position Ps, and the detection means 601, 602, e.g., angle detection means, are provided below the support surface 106 where they are not affected by measurement disturbances.

[0099] In a start position Ps before being contacted by the edge of the plate, the at least two pins 501, 502 are oriented in the upstream direction Du, preferably at an angle of 15 to 75 degrees relative to the support surface 106 (see Figures 8A and 9). In this way, for example, the pins can be gradually moved from the 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 oriented in the 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. 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 greater than 5 cm below or above the support surface 106, preferably greater 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, which further improves the accuracy of plate registration.

[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 to allow the pivotable pins to move from a start position Ps, where the pins point in an upstream direction Du, to a position where the pins point in a 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 to 175 degrees relative 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 the first elongated portion 510 extends below the support surface 106. This allows the length of the slit to be shortened while 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, and more preferably 10 to 100 cm.

[0108] 10 shows in a top view an exemplary embodiment having two movable elements 501, 502 for aligning the leading edge of a 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. Note 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 to center 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, e.g., 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 the edge of the plate P. The detection means 601 is configured to detect a reference representing the position of the pivotable pin 501. The controllable component 200, e.g., a movement means, is configured to perform an action on the plate. The control means 700 is configured to control the controllable component based on the reference. For example, the movement means 200 can be configured to translate the plate within the support surface and / or rotate the plate around an axis perpendicular to the support surface 106 in response to the reference. In this example, the pin 501 is arranged such that its pivot axis is above the support surface, and 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 a camera, may be capable of viewing both the first and second moving elements.

[0111] 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, material removal, gas or liquid treatment, sanding, cutting, electromagnetic wave treatment, ablation, measuring, and combinations thereof.

[0112] A relief plate master generally includes a support layer made of a first material and an additional layer made of a second material different from the first material. The support layer can be 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 flexible metal, the support layer can comprise a thin film, a sieve-like structure, a mesh-like structure, a woven or nonwoven fabric structure, or a combination thereof. Steel, copper, nickel, or aluminum sheets are preferred and can be approximately 50 to 1000 μm thick. In the case of polymer films, the film is dimensionally stable but flexible and can be made, for example, from polyalkylenes, polyesters, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polyamides, and polycarbonates, woven fabrics, nonwoven 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, and the thickness of the polyethylene and polyester foils can be in the range of about 100 to 300 μm, preferably 100 to 200 μm. The relief plate master can support additional layers. For example, the additional layer can 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, or a combination of a photosensitive layer and a mask layer. Optionally, one or more additional layers can be provided on top of the additional layer. Such one or more further additional layers can 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 can 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 can include the relief layer, the imageable layer, and one or more barrier layers that prevent oxygen diffusion between the relief layer and the imageable layer. One or more adhesive layers may be disposed between the different layers mentioned above to ensure 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 only by way of example and not as a limitation on the scope of protection determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus for registering an edge of a plate, typically the leading edge of a plate, in particular the leading edge of a printing plate or printing plate precursor, comprising: a support (100) configured to support said plate on its support surface and intended to be placed upstream of a processing station; at least two movable elements (501, 502) arranged to be moved by the edge of the plate, typically the leading edge of the plate, the at least two movable elements (501, 502) comprising a first movable element and a second movable element, respectively; detection means (601, 602) configured to detect a first datum and a second datum representing a first position and a second position of said first and second movable elements, respectively; at least one controllable element (100, 250) configured to perform an action on said plate; a control means (700) configured to control the at least one controllable component based on the first criterion and the second criterion; An apparatus comprising:

2. 2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the at least two movable elements (501, 502) are arranged to protrude through the support surface in a starting position of the at least two movable elements.

3. 3. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one controllable component comprises a moving means (200) configured to move the plate over the support surface.

4. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the control means is configured to control the moving means in response to a difference between the first criterion and the second criterion.

5. 5. Apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the moving means is configured to translate the plate parallel to the support surface and to rotate the plate about an axis perpendicular to the support surface.

6. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least two movable elements are at least two pivotable pins (501, 502) arranged to be pivoted by said edge of said plate.

7. 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the at least two pivotable pins (501, 502) comprise a first pivotable pin and a second pivotable pin, and the detection means is configured to detect first and second datums representing first and second angles of the first and second pivotable pins.

8. 8. Apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the at least two pivotable pins are arranged and configured to point in an upstream direction (Du) when not touched by the edge of the plate.

9. 9. The device according to any one of claims 2, 6 to 8, wherein the at least two pivotable pins are pivotally arranged about a pivot axis (A), the pivot axis being arranged at a distance (d) of more than 5 cm below the support surface.

10. 9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the at least two pivotable pins are movable between a start position (Ps) and an end position (Pe), and wherein biasing means (505) are configured to exert a force in the upstream direction (Du) against the edge of the plate.

11. 11. The device of claim 6, wherein each of the pivotable pins (501, 502) comprises a first elongated portion (510) and a second elongated portion (511), the second elongated portion being at an angle of 120 to 175 degrees relative to the first elongated portion, the second elongated portion extending at least partially above the support surface when in a start position (Ps), and the first elongated portion extending below the support surface.

12. 12. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the at least two movable elements and the support are configured such that the at least two movable elements can be moved below or flush with the support surface when the plate passes over the at least two movable elements.

13. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the support is a support table provided with at least two slits (101, 102), and the at least two movable elements protrude through the slits.

14. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the detection means (601, 602) are arranged below the support surface.

15. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one controllable component comprises any one or more of punching means, plate bonding means and plate gripping means.

16. The apparatus of any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the moving means comprises any one or more of at least one robotic arm, a set of rollers, a set of chains, and a set of belts.

17. 17. Apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5 and 16, wherein the moving means comprises an articulated working arm configured to translate and / or rotate the plate such that the edges of the plate move towards the at least two movable elements (501, 502).

18. 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the moving means comprises plate engaging means at the end of the articulated operating arm, the plate engaging means configured to contact the plate such that movement of the operating arm causes sliding of the plate on the support surface.

19. 19. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control means is configured to compare the first datum with the second datum and to determine that the edges of the plate are aligned if a difference between the first datum and the second datum is less than a predetermined threshold.

20. 20. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the distance between the first and second movable elements is between 10 cm and 1000 cm.

21. A system comprising an apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20 and a processing station downstream of the support and configured to receive the plate in registration.

22. 22. The system of claim 21, wherein the processing station is configured to perform any one of the following processes: cutting, ablation, exposure to electromagnetic radiation, developing, cleaning, brushing, rinsing, spraying, drying, irradiating, heating, cooling, removing material, treating with gas or liquid, sanding, cutting, and combinations thereof.

23. 1. A method for registering an edge of a plate, typically the leading edge of a plate, comprising: providing a plate having at least one substantially straight edge, typically a leading edge; coupling the plate to a moving means; using said moving means to move said plate over a support surface so that said edges contact at least two movable elements; detecting movement of the at least two movable elements; controlling the means of transportation based on the results of the detecting step; A method comprising:

24. 24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the at least two movable elements (501, 502) 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 the start position to an end position.

25. 25. The method of claim 23 or 24, wherein the at least two movable elements are pivotable elements.

26. 26. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the step of controlling the moving means based on the result of the detecting step comprises the step of rotating and / or translating the plate until a difference in position between a first movable element and a second movable element of the at least two movable elements is smaller than a predetermined threshold.

27. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein the plate is a printing plate or a printing plate precursor.

28. the moving step includes moving the plate so that the leading edge contacts the at least two movable elements; 28. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 27, further comprising feeding the plate to a processing unit when it is detected that a difference in position between a first and a second of the at least two movable elements is less than a predetermined threshold.

29. 29. The method of claim 28, wherein the at least two movable elements are moved below the support surface as the plate is being fed into the processing unit.

30. The method of any one of claims 23 to 29, further comprising centering the plate relative to an inlet of a processing unit arranged downstream of the at least two movable elements.

31. 31. The method of claim 30, wherein the at least two movable elements comprise a first pair of movable elements (101, 102) and a third movable element (103, 104), and the moving step comprises moving the leading edge relative to the first pair of movable elements and moving a first side edge or a second side edge of the plate relative to the third movable element.

32. 1. An apparatus for detecting and / or locating the edges of a plate, in particular a printing plate or printing plate precursor, comprising: a support (100) configured to support said plate on its support surface and intended to be placed upstream of a processing station; at least one pivotable pin (501, 502, 503, 504) arranged to be moved by the edge of the plate; detection means (601, 602) configured to detect at least one reference representative of the position of said at least one pivotable pin; at least one controllable element (100, 250) configured to perform an action on said plate; control means (700) configured to control said at least one controllable component based on said at least one criterion; An apparatus comprising:

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