Multi-Functional Sensor for Web Position and Print Quality Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing printing press technologies require a large number of separate sensors for position control of the printing material web and image control, leading to high investment and maintenance costs, as well as complexity in spare parts management.
Innovation Solution
A method and printing machine that utilize a single sensor to detect the lateral position of the web edge and regulate color register, color density, and fan-out effect, integrating the sensor with the adjustment device's computing system to reduce the number of sensors needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate sensors are used for web position control and image control, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and maintenance costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting both the web edge position for lateral position control and detecting printed image parameters (color register, color density, fan-out effect) for image quality control. This multi-functional sensor replaces what would traditionally require separate sensors for each detection task, thereby reducing device complexity and maintenance burden while maintaining measurement precision for both web positioning and print quality monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the web position detection function and the image control detection function into a single integrated sensor system. By merging these detection functions, the system reduces the total number of sensors required, simplifies the overall device structure, and lowers acquisition and maintenance costs while still providing accurate measurements for both web positioning and print quality parameters
2Reliability
If multiple sensors are installed for different control functions, then reliability of control functions is improved, but loss of time for maintenance and replacement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single multi-functional sensor performs both web position detection and image quality detection, reducing the total number of sensors that require maintenance. This reduces maintenance time and associated downtime while maintaining reliable control for both web positioning and print quality through one integrated detection system
3Device complexity
If a single sensor is used for multiple detection tasks, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is specifically designed with multi-functional capabilities to accurately detect both web edge position and printed image parameters simultaneously or sequentially. The sensor system maintains high measurement precision for both web positioning control and image quality control (color register, color density, fan-out effect) while reducing device complexity through integration
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system can adjust its detection parameters and measurement modes depending on the specific task - whether detecting web edge position or measuring printed image characteristics. This parameter adaptability allows a single sensor to maintain high precision across different detection functions by optimizing its measurement approach for each specific parameter being measured
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for controlling the lateral position of a substrate web (2), wherein the substrate web is brought to a predetermined lateral position before a first printing point by means of an adjustment device (6), and wherein at least one web edge (22) is detected by means of at least one sensor (10) for controlling the lateral position of the substrate web, and a suitable printing press (1) for this purpose. The object of the invention is to provide a solution with which the number and/or variety of sensors required within a printing press can be reduced. This is achieved by the sensor (10) for detecting the lateral position of at least one web edge (22) also detecting at least a part of a printed image (21) for monitoring or controlling printing parameters.