Camera Position Correction for Flexible Printing Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inaccuracies in positioning flexible printing plates arise due to camera positioning errors, especially when cameras are movable, leading to inaccuracies in image representation and plate positioning, which existing technologies fail to fully mitigate despite the use of position sensors.
Innovation Solution
A correction device that uses a tensioned thread or scale division parallel to the camera's movement direction to generate correction signals for transverse errors, and a position sensor for longitudinal errors, allowing for image correction and improved accuracy by comparing actual and desired camera positions, and storing correction signals for systematic errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a movable camera is used to detect printing plate position, then the camera can be positioned flexibly to observe registration marks, but positioning errors occur due to camera movement deviations affecting image accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by detecting actual camera position deviations from desired positions and using this information to correct image representation errors. Position sensors continuously monitor camera location, and the system automatically compensates for deviations by adjusting the displayed image coordinates, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains accuracy despite camera movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter representation by introducing correction signals that adjust the relationship between actual camera position and displayed image coordinates. By dynamically modifying the coordinate transformation parameters based on detected position deviations, the system compensates for movement errors and maintains accurate printing plate positioning.
2Reliability
If position sensors are used to track camera location, then camera position can be monitored, but systematic errors in sensor calibration or rail deformation still cause persistent positioning inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-determining correction signals for systematic errors through calibration procedures. The system characterizes rail deformations and sensor calibration offsets in advance, storing correction data that is automatically applied during operation. This preliminary characterization eliminates the need for real-time complex calculations and provides consistent compensation for systematic errors.
3Measurement precision
If the camera is fixedly mounted to eliminate positioning errors, then measurement accuracy improves, but the camera loses the ability to move and adjust position for different observation points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical positioning system with an electronic correction system. Instead of physically eliminating camera movement through fixed mounting, the system uses electronic image coordinate transformations and correction signals to compensate for movement effects. This substitution maintains camera mobility while achieving fixed-camera accuracy through software-based position compensation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a correction device for correcting the consequences of a deviation in the position of a movable camera (5) which is placed in a positioning device for flexible printing plates (7) on a carrier, wherein the camera is configured to detect at least the carrier and the device comprises display means (6) for displaying the image detected by the camera, wherein the correction device is provided with a position reference member (10) detectable by the camera, with position signal generating means for generating a signal representing the actual position of the camera from the signal detected by the camera, with comparing means for comparing the signal representing the actual position of the camera to the signal representing the target position of the camera and generating a correction signal, and with image correction means for correcting the image displayed by the display means using the correction signal. Positioning errors in the display of the image recorded by the camera are hereby avoided.