JPH0664150A - Ink controller in printing device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To obtain an ink control device capable of being attached to a conventional printing apparatus regardless of a ratio of the number of regulation keys and the number of zones by providing a plurality of servo moduli and operating one of respective regulation keys to regulate the same. CONSTITUTION: The command transmitted from a system unit 22 to a servo power unit is received by a servo processing/communication device 50 to be converted to proper signals such as pulses for servo moduli by the servo processing/communication device 50. These signals operate the inner motors of the servo moduli 28 to widen to narrow the gap G between an ink blade 16 and an ink roller 18. An ink control device can be equipped with at most four servo power units.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a printing apparatus, and more particularly to an ink control apparatus for a printing apparatus.

A printing device is a device well known to those skilled in the art.
Printing devices generally include a plurality of ink rollers, at least one ink fountain, and at least one ink blade disposed proximate one of the ink rollers. The ink blade is a member that extends substantially in the longitudinal direction, and the length in the longitudinal direction is substantially parallel to the axis of the ink roller. One edge of the ink blade is disposed adjacent to, but not in contact with, the ink roller, and a gap is provided between the edge of the ink blade and the ink roller. This spacing can be varied by adjusting the position of the ink blade with respect to the ink roller. The distance between the ink blade and the ink roller is proportional to the amount of ink adhering to the ink roller, and this distance determines the density of the ink printed on media, typically paper.

[0003] The spacing between the ink blade and the inking roller must of course be different at various locations along the length of the inking roller, since the density of the ink may not be uniform over the entire printed piece. The spacing at each location is typically adjusted by a manual adjuster mounted on the ink blade. Each of these adjusting devices changes the ink density of a portion of a printed piece, commonly referred to as a zone. Conventional adjustment devices are commonly referred to as keys. Examples of conventional printers and ink conditioners are Crum U.S. Pat. No. 3,747,524 and Murray et al. U.S. Pat. No. 3,958,509.
No. 4,008,664 to Clam et al. And U.S. Pat. No. 4,328,748 to Schram.

[0004] However, the above-mentioned conventional apparatus has disadvantages in several points. The most serious disadvantage is that the adjustment operation is complicated and time-consuming because the ink adjustment device is manually operated. Printing devices generally comprise at least 12 ink regulators, and if the inkwell is large,
It has as many as 36 ink regulators. Ink adjustment and readjustment operations must be performed by an operator through trial and error. Further, even if a good print result is obtained, a preferable result is not necessarily reproduced in the next printing step in the adjusted state.

The prior art that alleviates some of the above disadvantages is:
It is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,390,958 to Mumbella.
However, this device also has drawbacks in various respects. For example,
Since this apparatus uses an electro-optical mechanism for detecting and analyzing the density of ink, a separate step of transferring an image to be printed to a photographic film is required. Another disadvantage of the above technique disclosed by Mamba is that it is not a retrofit device. Printing machines are generally expensive, and consumers rarely purchase new printing machines with novel features and technologies. Therefore, there is a need in the industry for retrofit devices that improve the operation of conventional printing machines. One example of such a retrofit device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,213,390 to Lever et al. However, the above-mentioned retrofit device has a drawback such as the use of a bearing device for driving the ink blade. A significant disadvantage of using a bearing device is that the bearing device and the key that abuts the ink blade must be mounted directly and accurately. Since the keys are precisely arranged on the ink blade, each bearing device and thus the entire adjustment device must be correctly mounted on the key. Such mounting constraints cause the adjustment device to become incompatible and create replacement and maintenance problems. In addition, this retrofit device uses one or more wires from the adjustment device to the center position, and large numbers of wires, commonly referred to as wire harnesses, are difficult to handle, especially when installing and removing the retrofit device. It is. A disadvantage of Liebert's retrofit device is that it cannot be adapted to various printing devices.

[0006] Such incompatibility is due to the inconsistency in the size of the printing devices, especially because the number of keys, ie the number of adjusting devices, in each device is inconsistent. An ideal retrofit device must be adaptable to all conventional printing devices, regardless of the size of the printing device or the number of keys. In this sense, the Manberra and Liebert retrofit devices cannot be easily used on all conventional printing devices. For example, Munbella's device requires a certain ratio between the sensing element and the number of keys. For the above reasons, the two types of retrofit devices described above must be modified to be used with a particular type of printing device, and therefore the retrofit device is used with respect to a particular type of printing device. Be restricted.

In view of the prior art, the main object of the invention is that it can be easily mounted on all conventional printing devices of any type, especially on conventional printing devices regardless of the ratio of the number of keys to the number of zones. It is an object of the present invention to provide an attachable ink control device.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a simple and fast communication technique, particularly an ink control device that utilizes a bus for communication with an adjustment device.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an ink control device which does not require modification or alteration of the conventional printing device.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an ink control device that utilizes a simple feedback technique to detect the operation of an adjustment key.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an ink control device capable of storing or recalling a job.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an ink control device which does not damage a printing device.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide an ink control device that can be scaled up and down as a module so as to match the dimensions of a conventional printing device.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an ink control apparatus which can be easily attached to and detached from a conventional printing apparatus.

In order to achieve the above and other objects, the present invention is directed to a plurality of ink rollers, at least one ink fountain, and a plurality of ink adjusting keys disposed adjacent to one of the ink rollers. An ink control apparatus for use in a printing apparatus having at least one ink blade provided with: The ink control device that controls the adjustment of the adjustment key includes a system unit that controls the entire operation of the ink control device, an operation panel that inputs commands for adjusting and controlling the adjustment key, and a servo power that controls the adjustment of the adjustment key. A unit and a plurality of servo modules, each servo module actuating one of the adjustment keys to adjust the adjustment key;

Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be understood by studying the following detailed description of preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 shows a conventional offset type printing apparatus (12).
Is shown schematically. In the drawing, the printing device (12) comprises two ink fountains (14a), (14b). Each ink fountain (14a), (14b)
Is of conventional design and has at least one ink blade (16) and at least one ink roller (18), as best shown in FIG. Each inkwell
(14a) and (14b) are used to dispense ink of a specific color. The ink blade (16) is a member that extends substantially in the vertical direction, and its length in the vertical direction is parallel to the axis of the ink roller (18). One edge (17) of the ink blade (16)
Is disposed adjacent to, but not in contact with, the ink roller (18), and the edge (17) of the ink blade and the ink roller (1)
8) An interval G is formed between them. The distance of the gap G is the distance between the ink roller (18) and the ink blade (16).
The position of can be adjusted and changed. The distance between the ink blade (16) and the ink roller (18) is proportional to the amount of ink adhering to the ink roller (18), and the amount of ink determines the density of the ink transferred to the printing surface such as paper. For example, if the gap G between the edge (17) of the ink blade and the ink roller (18) is reduced, the amount of ink captured by the ink roller (18) is reduced and the ink density on the printing surface is reduced. .

In order to adjust the ink density on the printing plate,
The spacing G between the ink blade (16) and the ink roller (18) is adjusted to obtain different spacing at any discrete location along the length of the ink roller (18). In the prior art, this was accomplished by adjusting the ink blade (16) at any of the discrete positions mentioned above. An adjustment device was installed for each of these separate positions on the ink blade (16). The above-mentioned conventional adjusting device is a manual mechanism, and generally requires at least 12 for one small ink fountain and 36 for one large ink fountain. Adjustment of the entire device was time consuming and inaccurate. The reason for the long time is that the operator has to adjust and readjust most, if not all, of the above-mentioned adjusting devices by trial and error. The reason why the adjustment operation is inaccurate is that the operator adjusts the adjustment device based on the past experience of the operator in order to obtain the shading of the printing color. Furthermore, the adjustment work that has been completed once may not be repeatedly applicable to the next printing process.

FIG. 1 shows an ink control device (20) to reduce the above-mentioned other drawbacks. Ink control device (20)
Is an attachment of a printing device (12) of a substantially conventional type. An example of a conventional printing machine is a Bestec 40 type printing machine manufactured by Akiyama Printing Machinery Co., Ltd. in Tokyo, Japan. The ink control unit (20) is a system unit (22)
, Operation panel (24) and multiple servo power units
(26) and each servo power unit controls a plurality of servo modules (28). Each servo module (28) has an ink blade, as best shown in FIG.
(16) This is a mechanism for adjusting the distance G between the ink blade (16) and the ink roller (18) at an arbitrary position on (16). Each servo module (28) is mounted at a predetermined position on the ink blade (16). The above-mentioned predetermined position is the position of the key (190) which comes into contact with the ink blade (16) as shown in FIG. Activating the servo module 28 increases or decreases the composite print area of the print surface, commonly called an ink zone. As described below, the number of ink zones is determined by the key (19
It is not always necessary to match the number of 0), that is, the number of servo modules (28).

FIG. 3 schematically shows the entire operation of the ink control device (20). The system unit (22) includes a central processing unit (CPU) (30), a disk controller (32), a console monitor (34), and a normal power supply (36). Operation board
(24) a system / control device (40), an input / output control device (42), a zone control device (44), and a display device (4
6). Each servo power unit (26) includes a servo central processing and communication device (50) and a conventional power supply (52). As will be described later, the ink control device (20) utilizes distributed processing, and the operation of sub-units such as the servo power unit (26) does not depend entirely on the CPU (30), but is mainly performed. This is performed under the control of the internal processing device.

In operation of the apparatus, a template on which an image is to be printed, or an etched plate (60) is first placed on a frame-like frame (62). The plate (60) has been etched in the usual way. Put the operation panel (24) into the
The plate (60) or the printed matter can be easily observed together with various indications on the display device (46) by disposing the plate (2) below. The operator first zeroes the zone controller (44) and initializes the servo module (28). The zone controller (44) comprises a plurality of switches (64), each of which selects an ink density to be transferred onto a zone of the print. In essence, the servo module (28) has the ink blade (16) at separate locations on the ink blade (16).
The distance G between the ink and the ink roller 18 is controlled, so that the selected ink density has an effect on the operation of the servo module 28.

The ink density selected is displayed on the display device.
(46) It can be confirmed by displaying both numerical values and figures on the screen. The system control (40) then converts this information into an appropriate signal for transmission by the input / output controller (42).

The CPU (30) of the system unit (22) is
After receiving the zone density information from the operation panel (24), various functions are executed. First, the CPU (30) is connected to the disk controller (3
Via 2), the zone density information is stored in a storage device (not shown). Next, the CPU (30) issues a command to the servo power unit (26). The control panel monitor (34) controls information transfer between the system unit (22) and the control panel (24).

The command transmitted from the system unit (22) to the servo power unit (26) is received by the servo processing / communication device (50), and then received by the servo processing / communication device (50).
Is converted into an appropriate signal such as a pulse for the servo module (28). These signals actuate the internal motor of the servo module (28) to increase or decrease the gap G between the ink blade (16) and the ink roller (18).

Although the ink controller 20 can include up to four servo power units, the preferred embodiment utilizes only one servo power unit 26. In addition, each servo power unit (2
6) controls 6 groups, ie 6 rows of servo modules (28). Each servo module row can have from 22 to 40 servo modules.

In order to explain the details of the ink control device (20), each sub-unit will be sequentially described below.

As shown in FIG. 3, the system unit (22)
Has a CPU (30), a disk controller (32), an operation panel monitor (34), and a power supply (36). In the preferred embodiment, the CPU 30, disk controller 32, and power supply 36 each utilize conventional devices and will not be described in detail herein. In a practically preferred embodiment, these components utilize the appropriate subunits of a personal computer that is compatible with IBM. For example, the CPU 30 of the preferred embodiment is an 8088 microprocessor manufactured by Intel Corporation of Santa Clara, California.

As best shown in FIG. 7, a control panel monitoring device
(34) a supervisory processor (70), a programmable read only memory (EPROM) (71), a random access memory (RAM) (72), a supervisory buffer / transceiver (74), Bidirectional data transceiver (78), address buffer (80), address decoder (82), operation / stop control unit (84), and reset generator unit
(86).

More specifically, in the preferred embodiment, the monitoring processor 70 is a Motorola 6802 microprocessor from Phoenix, Arizona. The monitor processor 70 includes 16 address outputs, 8 data outputs, 1 reset input, and 1 stop input. The EPROM (71) and RAM (72) each have eight data lines and have fourteen and thirteen address inputs, respectively. In a preferred embodiment, the EPROM (71) is a conventional 8-bit,
It utilizes a 128K storage device, and the RAM 72 also uses a conventional 8-bit, 64K storage device. The monitoring buffer / transceiver (74) includes an address line and a data line for communicating with the operation monitoring device (34), as well as an address line and a data line for communicating with the operation panel (24). In the preferred embodiment, supervisory buffer / transceiver (74)
Is a 74LS244 buffer and 74LS manufactured by Signetic, Inc., of Sunnyvale, California.
A 245 type transceiver is used.

The data transceiver (78) receives and transmits 8-bit data information between the operation panel monitoring device (34) and the CPU (microprocessor of the system unit) (30). The address buffer (80) stores the address information in C.
It is provided for transmission from the PU (30) to the control panel monitoring device (34). Both the data receiver (78) and the address buffer (80) include one control port, which communicates with the address encoder (82). It should be noted that in the preferred embodiment, the data transceiver (78)
And the address buffer (80) are each 74LS24
It utilizes a type 5 transceiver and a 74LS244 type buffer. The address decoder (82) generates three kinds of signals, which are the stop / operation (HALT / RUN) signals of the operation / stop control device (84) and the restoration (RESET) of the reset generator device (86). Generate a signal. In the preferred embodiment, the address decoder (82) utilizes a 74LS138 decoder / demultiplexer from SIGNETIC. The operation / stop control device (84) and the reset generator device (86) utilize a conventional 74LS74D flip-flop manufactured by Signetic.

As shown in FIG. 7, the system unit (2
2) includes a plurality of ACIAs (asynchronous communication interface adapters) (76A to 76D), and facilitates communication between the system unit (22) and the servo power unit (26) by the ACIA. Can be. ACIA (7
6A to 76D) are the servo power
The information is transmitted to the unit (26). Each ACIA contains four address inputs and eight data lines for communication with the CPU (30). In addition, each ACIA is a CPU
The parallel data generated by (30) is converted into serial data and transmitted to the servo power unit (26).
In the preferred embodiment, ACIA uses Model SCN2661 manufactured by SIGNATIC.

The ACIA continuous output SO is a conventional RS2
It is transmitted via the 32 type communication line. The use of the RS232 serial digital communication line neatly simplifies the attachment of the printing device (12). For example, RS232 communication lines generally use very small diameter cables consisting of five wires. On the other hand, the conventional retrofit attachment device has a different communication system and uses a large amount of wires, so that handling is troublesome.

The operation of the system unit will now be described. First, the monitoring processor (70) reads the contents of the EPROM (71), erases the RAM (72), and then the operation panel monitoring device
4) Initialize. The EPROM (71) is in accordance with conventional usage and contains preselected information, such as necessary commands for operation of the monitoring and processing device (70). Next, the CPU (30)
Transmits command information via 12 address lines, and the operation / stop control device (84) outputs a stop (HALT) signal to disable or use the monitoring processing device (70) for a short time. Prohibit. The address information is first received by the address decoder (82), and the address decoder generates operation (RUN) and stop (HALT) control signals for the operation / stop controller (84). Next, CPU
(30) transmits address information and data information to the RAM (72) via the address buffer (80) and the data transceiver (78), respectively. These pieces of information are information relating to various conditions of the operation panel (24) such as set values of the servo module (28) and display information of the display device (46). If the operation panel monitoring device (34) is accidentally prohibited from being used for various reasons, the CPU (30) generates address information, and the reset generator device (86) restores (RESE).
T) A signal is generated to reset the operation panel monitoring device (70). Similarly, the address information is first restored by the address decoder (82), and then the control signal is transmitted to the reset generator device (86).

The monitoring processing unit (70) transmits address information and data information to the operation panel (24) via the monitoring buffer / transceiver (74). The operation of the operation panel (24) will be described below. As best shown in FIG. 5, the monitoring processor (7
Each operation of the control panel (24) detected by
The operation of (64) is recorded in the RAM (72). In a conventional manner, the CPU (30) periodically disables the monitoring processor (70) and scans the recorded information in the RAM (72). The response recorded in the RAM 72 such as the operation of the switch 64 causes the CPU 30 to modify the data stored in the RAM 72. The corrected data includes an operation command at the time of restoration of the monitoring processing device (70). One of the commands is to activate the electronic sound beeper (122), as will be described later, and this electronic sound indicates that the switch (64) has been pressed to inform the operator.

When the CPU (30) detects the response recorded in the RAM (72), it issues a command to the servo power unit (26) from the CPU (30). These directives
Normally, the gap G between the ink blade (16) and the ink roller (18)
With the operation of the servo module (28) for adjusting the temperature. These commands are converted from the parallel system to the serial system via the ACIAs (76A to 76D) and then transmitted to the servo power unit (26). Servo power unit (26)
The operation of the servo module (28) will be described below. Although four ACIAs are shown in the drawing, in the preferred embodiment one ACIA is used to communicate with one servo power unit (26).

The commands and information issued from the system unit (22) include interpolation of zone information, a servo linearity table, and the like. More specifically, the interpolation work is performed by controlling the control amount of each servo module (28) or each adjustment key (19
The control amount of (0) is changed by the switch (6) of the operation panel (24) for each position of the servo module (28) or the adjustment key (190).
This is a technique that is determined in consideration of one of the operation results in 4). Each switch (64) affects one ink zone because the number of switches (64) matches the number of ink zones in the print. Generally, the conventional ink blade (16) has a longitudinal length of 51 cm (20 inches) to 198 cm (7 inches).
8 inches). For example, 71cm (28
If there are 24 adjustment keys on an inch ink blade, the distance between the adjustment keys will be about 3 cm (1.16 inches). However, the ink controller (20) has 22 switches (64) that affect the 22 ink zones. Further, each switch (64) increases or decreases the ink density of each corresponding ink zone. In a 15 cm (28 inch) type printing device, the distance between the switches 64 or the ink zones would be approximately 1.279 inches. Therefore, there is no one-to-one correspondence between each ink zone and each adjustment key. To alleviate the lack of correspondence, the setting of the 22 switches (64) on the operation panel (24) is such that 22 ink zones appear on the printing surface via 24 adjustment keys. Must be set to That is, the ink density of each ink zone is the same as the ink density selected on the corresponding switch (64), that is, the set value. Interpolation of zone information and the like is performed by a conventional computer calculation technique. Due to this interpolation capability, the ink control device (20) can be easily retrofitted to all conventional printing devices regardless of the size of the device or the number of adjustment keys. Although the ink control device 20 includes interpolation capability, it is still effective when interpolation is not required, such as when the number of adjustment keys is equal to the number of ink zones.

The linearity of the servo is also determined for each servo.
The inherent non-linear results arising from module (28) must be corrected in the memory lookup table of system unit (22), as described below.

Operation Panel As best shown in FIG. 3, the operation panel (24) comprises a system control device (40), an input / output control device (42), a zone control device (44), and a display device. (46).

More specifically, as best shown in FIG. 8, the signal from the operation panel monitoring device (34) is first received by the input / output control device (42) as described above. The I / O controller (42) is a bidirectional data transceiver (90),
It has an address latch (94) and communicates with the control panel monitor (34). In the preferred embodiment, a data transceiver
(90) and address latch (94) are 7
It uses a 4LS245 type transceiver and a 74LS273 type latch, respectively.

The system control device (40)
Comprises an address decoder (100), a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) (102), a switch array (104),
It contains a column latch (106) and a row latch (108). In particular, the address decoder (100) has five inputs through which it communicates with the five address lines of the address latch (94) and the 72 address inputs. In the preferred embodiment, the address decoder (100) utilizes a 74LS154 decoder from SIGNATIC.

The switch array 104 uses a 7.times.8 array in the preferred embodiment and includes a pushbutton displaying numbers and commands.
NTER), Delete (DELETE), Copy (COP)
Y), save (SAVE), start (BEGIN), reproduction (RECALL), and the like. An LED (102) is arranged corresponding to a specific one of the above push buttons. In the preferred embodiment, 31 LEDs are provided. When the LED is activated, execution of a command such as copying is displayed. The LED 102 communicates with the address decoder 100 and the four address lines as well as the eight data lines of the data transceiver 90.

In order to operate the switch array (104), a column latch (106) and a row latch (108) are provided. The column latches 106) and row latches (108) communicate with the eight columns and seven rows of the switch array (104), respectively.
In addition, the column latch (106) and row latch (108) each contain eight lines and an address line of the data transceiver (90).
It communicates with one address line of the decoder (100). In the preferred embodiment, the column latch (106) and row latch (108)
A 74LS374 type latch and a 74LS244 type latch manufactured by SIGNETIC are used.

As mentioned above, the display device 46 contains a plurality of displays for displaying alphanumeric characters and images. Further, a portion of the display device (46) that is closely related to each subunit of the operation panel (24) will be described later at an appropriate place for each subunit. For example, the function of the LED (102) has been described above in connection with the operation of the switch array (104). The system controller 40 has a plurality of 7-segment, related displays such as LED displays (110A to 110D). Display (110A) and (110B)
Respectively communicate with the two address lines of the address decoder (100) and the data line of the data transceiver (90). On the other hand, the displays (110C) and (110D) respectively communicate with one address line of the address decoder (100) and the data line of the data transceiver (90). LED displays (110A-110D) are registered (REGISTRATION), total ink amount (SWEE)
P), the function of the fountain solution (WATER) is displayed.

"Registration" is a printing term, which means that the printing positions of each plate are completely matched, and in the case of multicolor printing, two or more colors are correctly printed on the same paper. Conventional multi-color printing presses generally require six colors for six-color processing.
Have one ink fountain and use one color plate for each ink fountain. For example, if the image has an outline, all the printing colors must be contained in the outline and each color must be printed correctly. If registration is omitted,
The outline of the color image is not uniform, and the printing position of each color plate is out of order. "Total ink amount" is also a printing term, and refers to the total amount of ink attached to each plate surface, that is, the density of each color transferred to each color plate. Also, "fountain solution" is a printing term, meaning that water is applied to the printing plate prior to inking to prevent ink from adhering to the non-image area of the printing plate. Generally, the special features described above must be adjusted for each printing process. Switch 64 is a rocker-type switch in the preferred embodiment, but other types of switches, such as light pen devices, may be used.

Further, the zone control device (44)
Decoder (112) and multiple up / down switches (64A to 64D)
, A plurality of LEDs (116A to 116D), a plurality of 7-segments, and an LED display (118A to 118D). The primary function of the zone controller (44) is to allow selection of servo module (28) settings. This set value indicates the width of the gap G between the ink blade (16) and the ink roller (18). In the preferred embodiment, a setting of 100% indicates a maximum gap G of about 0.3 mm (0.012 inches), and a setting of 0% indicates a minimum value of about 0 mm (0.000 inches). As best shown in FIG. 8, the zone controller 44 has four display devices per group. For example, four up / down switches (64), four groups of LEDs (116), and four displays (118). Therefore, only one group will be described below. Since the zone control device (44) is modularized, you can add or reduce the ink control device (20) with the switch (64).
Can be easily performed by increasing or decreasing in units of four.

The address decoder (112) also has eight inputs, the eight inputs communicating with an address latch (94) and eight outputs. In a preferred embodiment, the address decoder (112) is a 74LS1
A 38 type decoder is used. Further up and down (up /
Of the down switches (64A-64D), each down switch communicates with one address line of the address decoder (112). Similarly, the up switch communicates with one address line of the address decoder (112).

The LED (116) and the display (118) are provided for image display of the vertical selection of the switch (64). Each group of LEDs (116A-116D) is shown in FIGS.
As shown in FIG. 11, eleven LEDs are arranged vertically and linearly. Also, each group of LEDs (116A-116D) contains 10 LEDs, each of which represents a 10% increment of the expected maximum value. Each group of LEDs communicates with one address line of the address decoder (112) and the data line of the data transceiver (90). As will be described later, each servo module (28) can set its own reference point, and this reference point is stored in the servo power unit (26). Also, each linear array of LEDs 116 represents a range of 0% to 100% of the gap G. 100% is the maximum planned value.

LED display (118A-118D)
Communicates with one address line of each address decoder (112) and the data line of the data transceiver (90). The LED display (118A-118D) is a main means for the operator to set the numerical value of each zone.

Further. As shown in FIG. 8, the remaining displays in the display device (46) are address decoders.
(120), electronic beeper (122), display controller (124), and alphanumeric display (128). The address decoder (120) is connected to the address latch (94).
It communicates with a book address line and includes three output lines. One of the output lines is an electronic sound beeper (1
22) and the other two are display control devices
Communicate with (124). In the preferred embodiment, the address decoder (120) is a 74L
An S138 decoder is used. The display controller (124) receives address information from the address decoder (120) and data information from the data transceiver (90) and outputs twenty display signals for the display (128). . In the preferred embodiment, the display controller 124 utilizes 10938 and 10939 type LSI chips manufactured by Rockwell International, Inc. of El Segmund, CA. Also, the display (128) in the preferred embodiment utilizes a 20 × 2 character dot matrix alphanumeric display manufactured by Noritaki Corporation of Japan.

The operation procedure will be described. The address information from the operation panel monitoring device (34) of the system unit (22) is as follows.
First, the upper and lower switches (64) and the switch array (104) are addressed to determine if one or more of the switches has been selected. If the switch (64A) is selected, for example to increase the setpoint, this information is transmitted to the control panel monitor (34) via the data transceiver (90). Also, this information is
First, it is stored in the RAM (72). The CPU (30) can select a new value on the switch (64A) during the periodic scanning of the RAM (72). The monitoring processor (70) is a switch
Scan the buttons of the array (104) approximately every 250 milliseconds to address latches (94) and data transceivers (90).
The electronic sound beeper (122) is activated by transmitting a command via the. The beeper (122) can be activated approximately every 250 milliseconds after each scan of the switch array (104), but this speed is sufficient for the operator to hear the beep for each selection of the switch (64). It is. Operation of the linear array LED (116A) and the display (118A) occurs after decoding by the address decoder (112). If the increment is 10% of the previous value
In the above case, the next LED in the linear array is activated. At the same time, the display (118A) also increases the numerical display for each forward step.

Also, if the switch array (104) button has been selected, this information will be returned in the normal way to the column latch (1
It is transferred to the control panel monitoring device (34) via 06) and the row latch (108). The supervisory processor (70) then sends a command through the address latch (94) and the data transceiver (90) to cause the LED (10
2) Activate the corresponding LED in. When one of the three processes of “register”, “total ink amount” and “fountain solution” is selected, the corresponding display (110A-110D) is activated to display the selected value. Commands to the system controller (40) are decoded by the address decoder (100).

At the same time, the advance phase selected by the switch array (104) is transmitted to the RAM (72) as described above. The CPU (30) detects the advancing stage during periodic scanning and instructs the movement of the servo module (28) as described below.

When the CPU (30) transmits a response from the operator and requests an instruction from the operator, an appropriate message is sent to the alphanumeric display (1) via the monitor processing device (70).
It is displayed in 28). Electronic sound beeper (122) and display
The command to (128) is decoded by the address decoder.

Servo Power Units Each of the four servo power units (26) includes a servo processing and communication device (50) and a normal power supply (52). As shown in FIG. 9, the servo processing / communication device (50) includes a servo power processing device (130), a random access storage device (RAM) (132), and a read storage device (ROM) (134).
, Dedicated read storage device (DROM) (136) and decoder
(138), a bidirectional data transceiver (140), an address buffer unit (142), a system unit communication ACIA (144), a decoding logic unit (146), and a servo module ACIA (148). , Level converter (149A), (1
49B).

In the preferred embodiment, the servo power processor 130 is a Motorola 6802 microprocessor. The servo power processor includes sixteen address outputs, eight data outputs, one reset input, and one clock input. In the preferred embodiment, RAM 132 and ROM 134 each utilize conventional 8-bit, 64K storage. Also,
In the preferred embodiment, DROM (136) is conventional 8-bit, 16K storage. In addition, the decoder (138)
Uses a 74LS42 decoder manufactured by Signatures, Inc., and transfers information from a servo processing / communication device (50) to one of the seven columns of servo modules (28). In the preferred embodiment, only six rows of servo modules (28) are used, and the other row consists of special features such as "register", "fountain solution", "total ink".

In addition to the processing functions described above, the servo power processor 130 also controls a phenomenon commonly referred to as "coasting". The coasting of the servo module 28 means that the servo module cannot be stopped accurately at the deactivated position, that is, the position where the power is turned off, due to the inherent characteristics of the servo. For example, the servo unit is commanded by the system unit (22).
When the module (28) rotates 4 times, the servo module (2
8) coasts past the point where power was turned off. Thus, the coast distance or coast number for each movement of the servo module is recorded in the servo power processor (130),
Canceled on next move. In other words, it is a dynamic procedure of correcting after detecting the coasting number. For example, due to factors such as aging, the coasting distance of the servo module (28) may be different when newly manufactured and after long-term use, but the dynamic procedure described above ensures that the latest coasting number is used for correction. The quantity is given and thus an accurate printed image is obtained.

It should be noted that the data transceiver (140) and the address buffer (142) are, in the preferred embodiment, a Signex 74LS245 transceiver and a 74LS24.
4 buffers are used each. The decoding logic (146), in the preferred embodiment, utilizes a 74LS42 decoder to transfer the enable signal to one of the seven columns of servo modules (28). Decryption logic (1
The output of 46) is 5V to 1 with the conventional level converter (149A).
After boosting to 5V, the configuration (CONFI
G) The signal is transmitted to a single row of servo modules (28). The functions of the system unit ACIA (144) and the servo module ACIA (148) are
It is similar to the corresponding element of the unit (22). The system unit ACIA (144) and the servo module AC
IA (148) are all SCN26 manufactured by Signetic
61 is used. System unit ACIA (14
4) sends the information from the system unit (22) to RS23
2 can be received via a communication line. Also, the servo module ACIA (148) uses the information from the servo power unit (26) for a plurality of servo modules (28).
And receive information from the servo module (28). The information given to the servo module includes a movement target value, and the information received from the servo module includes a verification signal indicating whether the target value has been achieved and an actual movement value. In. The output of the servo module ACIA (148) is first boosted by a conventional level converter (149B).

By adopting digital communication, the ink control device (20) can be made compact as described above and also modularized. Ink control device (20)
Is designed for use with all conventional printing devices, so the number of servo modules (28) and the size of the control panel (24) can be easily increased or decreased. In contrast, conventional attachments (accessories) use parallel analog communication, so when the capacity is increased, additional wiring and connectors must be added, and the remodeling work is troublesome. However, in the ink control device (20) using serial communication such as a bus (bus), installation and removal operations are easy, and it does not take much time to retrofit. Also, no heavy and cumbersome cables are required.

In operation, when the servo power unit (26) is activated, preselected operation information in the DROM (136) is output to the RAM (132). The system unit ACIA (144) converts the serial information received from the system unit (22) via the RS232 communication line into parallel information. Information such as address and data is R
It is transmitted to the AM (132) and the ROM (134). A ROM (134) used in a conventional manner stores preselected information, such as instructions needed to operate the servo power processor (130). The data transmitted from the system unit (22) usually includes movement information of the servo module (28) as described above. Next, the servo power processor (130) is connected to the corresponding servo module (28).
Output the command to. At the same time, the servo power processing device (130) sends a signal to the decoder (138) to
One row in the servo module (28) receives the command. Therefore, only one row of servo modules 28 will receive and execute a command at a time.

The first information sent from the servo power processor (130) through the decoder (138) is the constituent signal. The configuration signal is basically a default signal and assigns a unique identifier (generally a number) to each servo module (28). Each identified servo module (28)
Receive and execute preselected information, respectively.
As will be described below, these configuration signals are first decoded by the decoding logic (146) and then boosted by the level translator (149A) for transfer to the particular example servo module (28), and then It is transmitted to the servo module (28) via the configuration CONFIG line.

Next, the servo power processor (130) controls the output of information such as a movement command to the servo module (28). These movement instructions are calculated taking into account the coasting number of each servo module (28) and the position of each servo module after the previous movement. Address information and data information are transferred from the RAM (132) to the address buffer (14).
2) and the data transceiver (140). These parallel signals are converted into serial signals by the servo module ACIA (148), and boosted by the level converter (149B) before the servo communication COMM.
The data is transferred to the servo module (28) via the line. On the contrary, the verification signal is the servo module.
(28) is sent to the servo module ACIA (148) via the communication COMM line, converted in parallel by the ACIA (148), and then transferred to the servo power processor (130) for additional processing. . For this additional processing, the status of the servo module (28) (indicated by the verification signal) is sent to the system unit (22) via the system unit ACIA (144).
Including work to transfer to. In addition, the verification signal contains a coasting number for each servo module 28, which is taken into account when determining the subsequent movement of each servo module 28.

Although the servo power unit 26 is illustrated as a stand-alone sub-unit of the ink control device 20 in the preferred embodiment, various functions of the servo power unit 26 are shown. It is known to those skilled in the art to design a system unit (22) that includes the OPC and omit such a stand-alone servo power unit (26). Furthermore, the servo power unit (26)
Communicate individually with the module (28), i.e. each servo
A design in which the module (28) is connected to the servo power unit (26) by wiring is also possible.

Servo Module The servo module (28) is a servo control unit (FIG. 1).
0) (150) and servo drive unit (see Fig. 11)
(152). Specifically, the servo control unit (15
0) is a power switch device (154), a servo module processing device (156), a servo configuration usable device (158),
Servo communication control device (160) and transmission control device (162)
And output data transmission device (164) and input data entry device
(166), a pair of level converters (168A) and (168B), and a servo motor driver (170). Further, a normal Hall effect detector (171) is provided (see FIGS. 11 and 19). In addition, servo module processing device (156)
Is a Motorola 6805 in the preferred embodiment.
Using a type microprocessor. The power switch device (154) also supplies a plurality of voltages. The servo configuration usable device (158) and the input data writing device (166) are comparators (comparing circuits). In addition, servo motor
Devices Q1-Q4 of the driver device (170) are ordinary power drivers.

As a procedure of operation, the servo power unit (26) first sends an enable signal to a particular servo module (28) to cause this servo module (28) to receive information. The enable signal described above, designated as the configuration signal or CONFIG IN signal in the preferred embodiment, is received by the servo configuration enable device (158). The servo-configurable device (158) utilizes a comparator in the preferred embodiment to transfer to the servo module processor (156) when the above information is above 5V. The servo communication controller (160) is also a switch of each servo module (28) in the preferred embodiment, and when the servo power unit (26) activates all the servo modules (28). , Is initialized to the open state. When the comparator (158) of the first servo module (28) passes the configuration CONFIGIN signal, the servo module processor (156) will
Record the identifier (eg the number “1”) contained in the FIG IN signal. The servo module processor 156 is then configured in the preferred embodiment to be -CONFIG.
It outputs a signal designated as PASS, which opens and closes switch 160. Since the switch (160) is closed in this way, the subsequent CONFIG IN signal is the CONFIG signal.
Servo module already identified as OUT signal
(28) Pass through without change. Therefore, the subsequent servo module (28) is identified by the same procedure as above.

The ink controller 20 is designed to deactivate the servo module 28 when the servo module 28 has completed the commanded movement. Power switch (154) is used to activate and deactivate servo module (28). Deactivating servo module 28 between each command move is preferred primarily for the following reasons. That is, this is to reduce power consumption and to reduce the possibility that data noise will occur due to electrical noise in the CONFIG circuit. Therefore, the configuration of the servo module (28)
This is performed before the servo power unit (26) issues a movement command each time. Also, the CONFIG IN signal and the CONFIG signal
Although described as a completely separate communication path from the OUT signal, in the preferred embodiment they are communicated via the same communication path.

After being enabled, the servo module processing unit (156) can receive additional information from the servo power unit (26) via a communication COMM line. This additional information instructs the servo drive unit (152) to operate and changes the gap G between the ink blade (16) and the ink roller (18). Servo module processor (15
If this additional information is entered in 6), this information is controlled by the input data entry device (166). In a preferred embodiment, the input data entry device 166 in which a comparator is used is 5 V
The above digital information is transmitted using the reference voltage.

When the servo module processing unit (156)
Servo power unit (26) with information via MM line
COMMM OU in the preferred embodiment when forwarding to
Outputs the signal designated as T. An output data transmission device (164) is provided for transmitting this output information. In the preferred embodiment, this output data transmission device (164)
In the preferred embodiment, which includes a plurality of conventional transistors (Q7-Q10), the transmission signal designated as -XMIT ON / OFF is output from the servo module processor (156). The transmission signal causes the transmission control device (162) to activate the transistor (Q10) of the output data transmission device (164). The output information to the servo power unit (26) includes detection signals such as the status (coasting number) of the servo module (28) and the position after the movement of the servo module (28).

While the servo module processor (156) is controlling the operation of the servo drive unit (152), a positive or negative digital control signal is generated to determine the direction of rotation of the motor. The positive and negative digital control signals are first amplified by a pair of conventional level converters (168A) and (168B), respectively. If the positive digital control signal comes from the servo module processing unit (156), the level converter
(168A) starts and the servo motor driver (17
0) transistor (Q1) is started. Next, the current is applied to the positive rotation side of the motor drive (MOT in the preferred embodiment).
OR (+) DRIVE). The return current from the motor drive unit is MOTOR (-) DRIV
Return via the E line and return to the servo motor driver device (1
70) through the active function (Q4). Also, if the servo module processing unit (156) generates a negative control signal, current flows through the servo motor driver unit (170) to the reverse path, and the motor also rotates in the reverse direction. . The movement of the servo drive unit (152) is controlled by the Hall effect detector (1
71). The signal to this detector is
In the preferred embodiment it is called MAG PULSE. Therefore, the action of the servo drive unit (152) is based on five communication paths, namely, MOTOR (+) DRIVE, MOTO
R (-) DRIVE, -MAG PULSE, CON
It is controlled by command signals transmitted to FIG IN / CONFIG OUT and COMM.

As shown in FIG. 11, the servo drive unit (1
52) is a Hall effect detector (171) and a conventional sorter device
(172), a motor shaft (173), a multi-pole magnet (174) attached to the motor shaft (173), a first stage gear device (176), a first drive shaft (177), Second gear device (1
78), the second drive shaft (180), and the first coupling device (18
2), the multi-turn / stop device (184) and the adjustment device (18
6) and a second coupling device (188). The second coupling device (188) is attached to the adjustment key (190) of the conventional printing device (12). Second coupling device (18
The 8) is designed to accept the adjustment keys (190) on all conventional printing devices. Further, since the second coupling device (188) can be easily put on the adjustment key (190) by a device using ordinary bolts and nuts, maintenance of the ink control device (20) is simplified.

The construction and design of the first coupling device (182) and the second coupling device (188) are based on the ink control device.
Installation and operation of (20) are simplified. The second coupling device 188 includes two rearwardly extending members 188A and 188B, as shown in FIG. On the other hand, the first coupling device (182) has two radially extending slots.
(182A) and (182B). Because the depth of slots (182A) and (182B) is greater than the height of members (188A) and (188B), members (188A) and (188B) slide inside slots (182A) and (182B), respectively. . As best shown in FIG. 16, the first coupling device (182) also includes a member (188A).
(188B) is mounted in the usual manner to slide perpendicular to the sliding direction. The first coupling device (182) and the second coupling device (188) may be in contact with each other even when the servo module (28) is not axially aligned with the existing adjustment key (190). , Assembled,
Can be attached to adjustment key (190). Therefore, since accurate positioning is not required for the adjustment key (190) existing in the servo module, the ink control device (20) can be easily mounted. In addition, the conventional printing device (12)
No special modifications are required to accept the ink control device (20).

As best shown in FIG. 12, the second stage gear device (178) includes an internal gear (spur gear) (178A) and an external gear (1).
78B) is included. The external gear (178B) includes a non-exposed gear (178C) and an exposed gear (178D). First stage gear device (17
Since 6) and the second stage gear device (178) are substantially the same except for a small difference as described later, only the second stage gear device (178) will be described. The spur gear (178A) is formed such that the outer diameter of the teeth is smaller than the outer diameter of the teeth of the unexposed gear (178C). Both the spur gear (178A) and the unexposed gear (178C) have an odd number of teeth, and in the preferred embodiment are 27 and 29 respectively. The reason for adopting such a unique gear configuration is that the difference in the number of teeth between the spur gear and the unexposed gear is 12 or more in the standard gear device. This gearing is made possible by the special tooth profile of the first stage gearing (178) and the second stage gearing (178), i.e. the relatively large tooth thickness for only the teeth. Two objectives can be achieved with such a gear configuration and tooth profile. First, the gear reduction at each stage is greater than that of the conventional one.
Next, since the number of meshing teeth of the gear increases, the allowable torque load increases as compared with the conventional gear device. In addition, this unique gear configuration allows low cost injection molded thermoplastic gears to be utilized while maintaining torque and durability.

Further, the gear ratio of the first stage and the second stage is 14.5: 1. Since the outer diameter of the teeth of the spur gear (178A) is smaller than the outer diameter of the unexposed gear (178C), the spur gear (178A)
Eccentrically rotates when driven by the motor shaft (173) and the first drive shaft (177), respectively. The eccentric lobe is expressed by the following equation.

[0073]

The spur gear (178A) is a vertical slot-shaped opening.
(179B) (see FIGS. 11 to 13). 13,
As best shown in FIG. 14 and in FIG. 14, the first stage gear unit (176) also has a spur gear (176A) and an unexposed gear (176).
C) and an external gear (176B) including an exposed gear (176D), and an opening (179A)
And Through each opening, adjuster (186) shaft (19
2) is stretched. As the motor shaft (173) and first drive shaft (177) rotate, the openings (179A), (179B) slide up and down with respect to the shaft (192). The deceleration of the entire gearing is such that every time the motor shaft (173) and the first drive shaft (177) make 210.25 revolutions, the second drive shaft (180) becomes 1
After 4.5 rotations, the non-exposed gear (178C) rotates only one rotation. When the gear configuration is formed in this way,
Compared with the conventional adjusting device, the servo module (28) is extremely small, the rotating torque is large, and the adjusting key (19)
From 0), the resultant force on the ink blade (16) also increases. In order to produce a torque equivalent to this gear configuration, conventional devices generally use expensive planetary gears or use ordinary spur gears that occupy a large space compared to the servo module (28). . In addition, the servo module (2
8) produces a high torque even when the second gear unit (178) is made of a plastic material.

Combined output rotation of the servo module (28),
That is, the output rotation of the first coupling device (182) is non-linear, but the system unit (22) performs a normal correction operation. A search table is stored in the memory of the system unit (22), and the servo module (28) is considered in consideration of the non-linear characteristics of the first stage gear unit (176) and the second stage gear unit (178). The optimum rotation speed is transmitted.

In addition, the first gear unit (176) and the second gear unit (176)
A step gear (178) facilitates calibration of the servo module (28). As shown in FIGS. 11, 17, and 18, one calibration gear (194) is provided. The exposed gear (178D) and the calibration gear (194) include notches (196A) and (196B), respectively. The multi-turn stop device (184) includes a calibration arm (184A), a braking arm (184B), and a calibration cam (184).
C). When performing calibration, the signal sent from the system unit processing unit (30) causes the second stage gear unit (178) to rotate, and the two notches (196A) and (196B) are respectively calibrated to the calibration arm (184A). ) And the calibration arm (184C)
(184B) is brought into contact with the braking extension section (198) of the first stage gear unit (176) (see FIGS. 14, 17, and 18). The position where the rotation of the first-stage gear unit (176) and the rotation of the second-stage gear unit (178) is stopped is designated as a reference point by the system unit processing unit (30). In a preferred embodiment, the number of teeth of the calibration gear (194) is a prime number of 11, and the number of teeth of the exposed gear (178D) is 23.
Is a prime number. The coincidence between the notch (196A) and the calibration arm (184A) and the coincidence between the notch (196B) and the calibration cam (184C) occur only once every 11 rotations of the exposed gear (178D). Thus, the adjustable range of the adjustment key (190) is expanded.

As described above, the above-mentioned reference point is generally called the zero level, and is the starting point of all forward positions of the switch (64). This calibration procedure is performed by the operator but is necessary to reconfirm the reference point after restarting the servo module (28). Also, the servo module
The braking function of (28) is the multiple turn capability, that is, the control extension unit when the motor (172) is switched to the reverse rotation.
(198) has a function that does not work. In addition, because the controlled extension (198) is located on the first stage gearing (176), two advantages are obtained. One is that the braking action works at a low torque position, so the braking arm (184
B) can be prevented from being damaged. Another is that the mechanical intersection of the first stage is larger than that of the second stage, so that the position intersection is also large.
Although a two-stage reduction gear has been shown as a preferred embodiment, it is known to those skilled in the art to utilize a multi-stage reduction gear to obtain a combined torque.

The multi-turn stop (184) and the brake extender (198) are provided with a security function to prevent the risk of the control key (190) entering the ink blade (16) without being controlled. Performs the safety function additionally. Since the conventional ink adjusting device does not use such a fail-safe technique, the conventional printing device, particularly the manually adjusted printing device, is easily damaged. Ink control device (20)
The fail-safe mechanism of the
Maintain and extend the useful life of 6) and ink roller (18).

When the servo module fails, the manual gear (199) can be pulled by pulling the adjusting device (186) by hand.
Engages the exposed gear (176D) and allows the adjustment key (190) to be adjusted manually. A Hall effect detector (171) is used to measure the rotation of the motor shaft (173). As best shown in FIG. 19, the Hall effect detector (171) has a rotating magnetic field (1
74) to generate a corresponding number of pulses for each rotation of the motor shaft (173). The servo module processing unit (156) calculates these pulses and rotates the motor (172) by the required number of pulses in accordance with the command from the servo power unit (26). Therefore, the Hall effect detector (171) is
When detecting the movement of 8), it works as a simple feedback mechanism. In contrast, prior art ink conditioners use generally complex detection mechanisms, including potentiometers, to detect the actual position of the ink blade (16). Furthermore, by detecting the rotation speed of the servo module (28), the servo power unit
The coasting number of each servo module is transmitted to (26).

In the preferred embodiment, the Hall effect detector (1
(71) is used to verify that the rotation speed of the motor (172) matches the command value of the servo power unit (26). Can also be used. A conventional absolute position encoder such as a HEDS-6000 optical encoder manufactured by Hewlett-Packard of Palo Alto, Calif. Is used, but a potentiometer may be used.

Since the electronic devices and mechanical elements of each servo module (28) are packaged in a single package, the servo modules (28) are interchangeable, and the ink control device (20) can be modularized. became. This compatibility of servo modules has made maintenance and replacement work quick and easy. The external dimensions of the servo module (28) are about 2.5 cm (0.985 inch) wide and about 5.5 cm (23 /
16 inches) and about 31/2 inches in length.

Operation of Ink Control Device As shown best in FIG. 20, operation of the ink control device (20) is initiated by an operator. During the start-up phase, the system unit CPU 30 sends an appropriate signal to each sub-unit to start all sub-units. Next, the operator sets each switch (64) of the zero point control device (44) to the zero point, and
Calibrate the module. The operator selects the system unit (2
2) When printing image data already stored inside,
Reproduction of switch array (104) of operation panel (24) (RECA
LL) button is selected to search for the corresponding job number. In this case, stored information such as the target value of the servo module (28) is retrieved from the disk memory and transferred to the operation panel (24). It is arbitrary whether the operator modifies the set values before transferring them to the servo module (28). Except for the case of retrieving the stored information as described above, the operator must select the optimum setting value of each servo module (28) on the operation panel (24).

When a new job is started, a new job number is assigned, and the operator pushes one button of the switch array (104) at this point to operate the servos in six rows.
Select a particular row in module (28). Each row of servo modules (28) is mounted on a separate ink fountain (14), one for each ink color. In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 5, a plurality of bank switches (103) are used.

In the stage of the preparation (SET-UP) mode, since only the system unit (22) and the operation panel (24) are operating, the operator has the servo power unit (26) and the servo module. Without starting (28), switch (10
4) With each button of (Registrat)
ION), total ink amount (SWEEP), dampening water (WAT)
Special function buttons such as ER) can be selected. Generally, the printing plate (60) is disposed on the gantry (62), so that the operator can easily observe the image on the printing plate to be printed. Next, the operator sets appropriate values on the operation panel (24) for the ink zones of each printing plate. Next, the operator presses the switch (64) for each image portion of the printing plate on the operation panel (24) to select an optimum set value. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, if the operator advances the switch (64A), every time the switch advances,
The segments are displayed on the LED display (118A) and the data is sent to the RAM (72) of the operation panel monitoring unit (34). On the other hand, the CPU (30) detects the stored data inside the RAM (72) during the periodical scanning of the RAM (72). Next, the CPU (30) starts the electronic sound beeper (122) by the monitoring processing unit (70) and modifies the stored data so that the operation of the switch (64A) can be acoustically confirmed. switch
Each time the (64A) advances by 10 steps, a linear array of LEDs (1
One LED in 16A) is additionally activated. Therefore, the LEDs (116A) in the linear array display the set values in an image.

If the operator wants to advance the entire group of switches (64), all "ALL" switches shown in FIG.
By selecting (65), it is possible to advance by the same value for each image portion. It is also possible to operate the percent switch to advance each set value in the image area by an arbitrary percentage. For example, the drawing area No. 1 is set to 50 and No. 2 is set to 30.
When the ink density of the percent switch is advanced by 10%, the set value of the image area No. 1 becomes 55 and No. 2
Goes to 33. On the other hand, if you select a value on the ALL switch (65) (for example, 10), the image area No. 1 is set to 60 and N
o.2 goes to 40.

Similarly, register (REG) which is a special function
Optimum values for (ISTRATION), total ink amount (SWEEP) and fountain solution (WATER) can also be selected. The numerical value for this special function can be selected by the corresponding button of the switch array (104) as described above, but in another embodiment shown in FIG.
Lower switches (111A), (111C), and (111D) are used. The functions and operations of the switches (111A), (111C), and (111D) are the same as those of the switch (94).

Next, the printing plate (60) is mounted on the ink fountain (14), and when the operator presses the execution (RUN) mode switch, the set values of the servo module (28) and the RAM (28) are set. 72) The set value of the special function stored therein is transmitted from the CPU (30) to the servo power unit (26). The movement information for the servo module (28) is created in consideration of the nonlinearity of the servo module output. As described above, the set values for the image portion and the special function are first transferred from the operation panel (24) to the RAM (72) of the operation panel monitoring device (34). This setting value is C
Detected by periodic scanning of PU (30), after searching and correcting,
Transfer to servo power unit (26).

In the servo power unit (26), a decoder (136) first decodes the information and transfers it to an appropriate row of servo modules (28). As mentioned above,
After first configuring the module (28), information is transferred to these servo modules. Next, the servo module processing unit (156) energizes the motor (172) and indicates an appropriate movement value. The operator checks the proof print on the gantry (62) and corrects the set values. The verification signal is
It contains the post-movement position of the module (28) and the coasting value.These positions and values are the servo power processor (13
0) Stored internally. In addition, servo module (28)
Is deactivated unless the operator deems it necessary to modify the setpoint.

When the operator corrects the set value, the operator first sets a new numerical value on the operation panel (24). This information is transferred from the system unit (22) to the servo power processing unit (130), and then the servo power processing unit (130) considers the coasting number of each servo module (28) and the current position. The actual required travel is calculated.

If the print quality is good, press the LOCK button of the switch array 104 to
Save the entire setting of the control panel (24). In addition, switch
Pressing the Existence (SAVE) button on the array 104 saves the entire setpoint for future use. Further, the copy "Copy" function enables copying of the set values between the servo modules. Alternatively, it is possible to exchange the setting values between the respective module rows to obtain a different ink fountain (print color) density. The operator can select and correct the numerical value of the next printing step during the first step after the setting of the image area is completed for the printing apparatus.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made from the objects of the present invention and the appended claims. For example, each servo power unit in the seventh column
(26) Other accessories such as a plate scanner, a scanning densitometer, and office machines can be additionally provided. It is also possible to connect the ink control device (20) to an independent segmented ink blade (16). Furthermore, the procedure of changing the design of the ink control device (20) to configure the servo module (28) before receiving each command can be omitted. For example, a configuration step of assigning a specific identifier using a conventional hard-wired jumper switch to identify each servo module can be omitted. With this method, the decoding procedure becomes unnecessary as the identifier is abolished. The system unit (22) can use a variety of conventional communication techniques if desired.

Further, the ink control device (20) can be easily attached to the conventional printing device (12), and can be easily removed and attached to another printing device. The simplicity of attachment and detachment is effective when discarding a printing device whose service life has ended and attaching an ink control device to a newly purchased printing device.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing an ink control device of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a simplified cross-sectional view showing the servo module of the present invention coupled to an ink fountain.

FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram of the ink control device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the operation panel of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a partially enlarged view of the operation panel of FIG.

FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged perspective view of the servo module of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a part of the system unit of FIG. 3;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the operation panel of FIG. 3;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the servo power unit of FIG. 3;

FIG. 10 is a simplified diagram of a servo controller unit of the servo module of FIG. 2;

FIG. 11 is a partial sectional view of a servo drive unit of the servo module of FIG. 2;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of a gear device of the servo drive unit of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a gear device of the servo drive unit of FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of a gear device of the servo drive unit of FIG. 11;

FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of a gear device of the servo drive unit of FIG. 11;

FIG. 16 is an end view of the servo drive unit of FIG. 11;

FIG. 17 is a partially enlarged side view showing components of the servo drive unit shown in FIGS. 11 to 15 that perform calibration work and control work.

18 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the component of FIG.

19 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the Hall effect detector of FIG. 11 and a rotary magnet of the servo drive unit.

20 is a process flow chart showing the operation of the ink control device of FIG. 3;

[Explanation of symbols]

 12 printing device 14a, 14b ink fountain 16 ink blade 18 ink roller 20 ink control device 22 system unit 24 operation panel 26 servo power unit 28 servo module

 ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued Front Page (72) Inventor James Earl Francy Skyview Terrace, Los Gatos, California 23535, United States

Claims (2)

[Claims] 1. At least one ink for distributing ink to an associated ink roller and an ink blade disposed adjacent to the ink roller and forming a gap between the ink blade and the ink roller. An ink control device for use with a printing device having a fountain, wherein the ink blade comprises a plurality of adjustment keys, the adjustment keys being associated with each other to adjust the gap at different positions along a longitudinal direction of the ink blade. In the ink control device, in which the printing device prints a composite print including a plurality of printing zones, the ink control device is connected to the adjustment key and controls the adjustment value of the adjustment key,
Furthermore, (a) a system unit that controls the operation of the ink control device, (b) an operation panel that gives an ink density command to the system unit to control the adjustment value of the adjustment key, and (c) the adjustment key. A plurality of servo modules connected in a one-to-one correspondence with each other, each servo module actuating the adjustment key corresponding to the servo module, and is grouped into a plurality of servo module rows. A plurality of servo modules including at least one servo module, and (d) a servo power unit for controlling the adjustment value of the adjustment key, (i) selecting one of the servo module rows and providing a control signal thereto. A device for generating a servo selection signal for communicating with, (ii) receiving the servo selection signal,
A servo power unit further comprising a device for transmitting a configuration signal to the selected servo module sequence, whereby the configuration signal assigns a specific identifier to each servo module in the selected servo module sequence; and (e) An ink control device comprising a device for generating the configuration signal. 2. At least one ink for distributing ink to an associated ink roller and an ink blade disposed adjacent to the ink roller and forming a gap between the ink blade and the ink roller. An ink control device for use with a printing device having a fountain, wherein the ink blade comprises a plurality of adjusting keys, the adjusting keys adjusting the gap at different positions along a longitudinal direction of the ink blade in relation to each other. In the ink control device, in which the printing device prints a composite print including a plurality of printing zones, the ink control device is connected to the adjustment key and controls the adjustment value of the adjustment key,
Further, (a) a system control unit for controlling the adjustment value of the adjustment key in response to an ink density command, and (b) a plurality of servo modules connected to the adjustment key in a one-to-one correspondence. A plurality of servo modules, wherein each servo module actuates the adjustment key corresponding to the servo module and is grouped into a plurality of servo module rows, each servo module row including at least one servo module; A servo control device for controlling the adjustment value of the adjustment key, comprising: (i) a device for selecting one of the servo module strings and generating a servo selection signal for sending a control signal to it; A servo selection signal is received and a configuration signal is further transmitted to the selected servo module string so that the configuration signal selects the particular identifier. Ink control apparatus comprising: a servo control apparatus comprising a device and allocated to each servo module in the servo module row, and a device for generating (d) is the configuration signal.