Digital Mask Creation via Thermal Proofer Lamination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for creating digital masks in situ for photosensitive printing elements are inefficient and do not achieve the desired image resolution quickly enough, complicating the process of creating relief image printing elements.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a thermal proofer is used to create a negative donor image, which is then laminated onto a photosensitive printing element, allowing for the formation of a digital mask that can be processed to create a relief image printing element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional methods are used to create digital masks in situ, then the process is simpler, but the image resolution is insufficient and the process time is too long
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a negative image on a donor element using a thermal proofer before transferring it to the photosensitive element. This preliminary action allows the negative image to be prepared in advance with high resolution, and then quickly transferred to the printing element, thereby achieving both high image resolution and reduced overall process time
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a donor element as an intermediary carrier that holds the negative image. This donor element acts as a mediator between the thermal proofer and the photosensitive element, allowing the negative image to be transferred with high resolution while simplifying the overall process and reducing time
2Productivity
If digital methods are used to create in situ mask image, then the process is faster, but the preparation steps are complex and image resolution is not optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The negative image is created on a donor element using a thermal proofer before the transfer step. This preliminary action prepares the image in advance, allowing for quick transfer to the photosensitive element without complex preparation steps, thereby achieving both high productivity and simplified process
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a negative copy of the image on a donor element, which is then transferred to the photosensitive element. This copying approach simplifies the process by separating image creation from image transfer, reducing preparation complexity while maintaining fast processing speed
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enables the rapid and efficient creation of a digital mask with improved image resolution, streamlining the process of creating relief image printing elements by utilizing a thermal proofer to produce a negative image that is laminated onto the photosensitive element.
Implementation Method 1
a donor element and a receptor element in a thermal proofer, wherein the donor element is capable of transferring material to the receptor element to create an image on the receptor element
Implementation Method 2
the photocurable layer is exposed to actinic radiation through the negative; and (2) 'digital' methods in which an in situ negative is formed directly on the photosensitive printing element
Implementation Method 3
thermal development to create the relief image printing element
Data Source
AI summary
A method of creating a digital mask in situ for use in a process of making digital flexographic printing elements. The digital mask is created by laminating the negative image that is the by-product of a thermal proofer to a photosensitive printing plate. Thereafter, the photosensitive printing element can be imaged, exposed, and developed in the usual manner.