Printing Module Plate Cylinder Fixation Inversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing printing module design restricts upward diversion of the substrate web and complicates the removal of the plate cylinder assembly due to the occupation of space above the plate cylinder assembly by fixation means, making it difficult to perform additional processing operations or exchange the plate cylinder assembly.

Innovation Solution

The fixation means are relocated substantially under the plate cylinder assembly, allowing for upward diversion of the substrate web and enabling easy access and removal of the plate cylinder assembly, with hooks and piston-cylinder assemblies facilitating stable locking and easy extraction, and providing space for additional processing units above.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If fixation means are disposed above the plate cylinder assembly, then the plate cylinder assembly is securely fixedated in the receiving units, but the space above the plate cylinder assembly is occupied and cannot be used for diverting the substrate web or for other purposes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure fixation of plate cylinder assemblyVSAvoidspace availability above plate cylinder assembly

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The fixation means are inverted from their conventional position above the plate cylinder assembly to a position below it. This inversion resolves the spatial conflict by placing the fixation mechanism underneath the plate cylinder assembly, allowing the area above to remain clear for substrate web diversion and other operations while still providing secure fixation through upwardly directed rods with hooks that engage the stationary shaft.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Reliability

If piston-cylinder assemblies and bridge are disposed above the plate cylinder assembly for fixation, then the plate cylinder assembly is fixedated, but it becomes more difficult to take the plate cylinder assembly out of the printing module

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefixation of plate cylinder assemblyVSAvoidremoval of plate cylinder assembly

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fixation mechanism is inverted from above to below the plate cylinder assembly. The rods with upwardly directed hooks engage the stationary shaft from underneath, allowing the plate cylinder assembly to be easily removed by simply disengaging the hooks from below, rather than having to manipulate piston-cylinder assemblies and bridges from above.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Reliability

If space above the plate cylinder assembly is occupied by fixation means, then the plate cylinder assembly is secured, but additional processing operations cannot be performed above the printing module

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure fixation of plate cylinder assemblyVSAvoidadditional processing operations above printing module

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The fixation means are inverted to position below the plate cylinder assembly, clearing the space above for additional processing operations. The rods with hooks provide secure fixation from underneath, allowing the area above the printing module to be utilized for substrate web diversion and other processing operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

4Reliability

If fixation means are disposed above the plate cylinder assembly, then the plate cylinder assembly is fixedated, but the space above is not freely accessible for exchange of plate cylinder assembly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefixation of plate cylinder assemblyVSAvoidexchange of plate cylinder assembly

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fixation mechanism is inverted from above to below the plate cylinder assembly. The rods with upwardly directed hooks engage the stationary shaft from underneath, providing secure fixation while leaving the area above fully accessible for quick exchange of plate cylinder assemblies, as the hooks can be easily disengaged from below.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS7814831B2Printing module, and printing machine provided with such printing module

Publication Date: 2010.10.19 MPS HLDG

AI summary

A printing module provided with a frame (12), an impression roller (13), a plate cylinder assembly (22), an anilox roller and a doctor roller, wherein the printing module comprises two receiving units disposed on opposite sides of the plate cylinder, which are connected with the frame, while fixation means are provided for fixating the plate cylinder assembly in the receiving units, the fixation means (26, 27) being situated substantially under the plate cylinder assembly (22), the fixation means preferably comprising two rods (46,46′) which, at an upwardly directed end, are provided with a hook (47,47′), the two hooks, on opposite sides of the plate cylinder, engaging a stationary shaft of the plate cylinder assembly, while on the rods a pull force is exerted for pressing the plate cylinder assembly into the receiving units.