Title of Invention	SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOUNTING A PLATE TO AN ADHESIVE MEMBER
Abstract	A system and method for adhering and aligning a generally flat, planar object to an adhesive layer, and for facilitating the mounting of the generally flat planar object such as a printing plate, in near perfect alignment in a cylindricalmanner. The method includes providing a generally flat, planar object such as a printing plate and an adhesive member having an adhesive layer at least on one surface. The adhesive member is preferably approximately the same size as the printing plate. The printing plate is mounted to the adhesive member such that there is one region of the adhesive member which is not initially covered by the printing plate and one region of the printing plate which overhangs the adhesive member.

Title of Invention

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOUNTING A PLATE TO AN ADHESIVE MEMBER

Abstract

A system and method for adhering and aligning a generally flat, planar object to an adhesive layer, and for facilitating the mounting of the generally flat planar object such as a printing plate, in near perfect alignment in a cylindricalmanner. The method includes providing a generally flat, planar object such as a printing plate and an adhesive member having an adhesive layer at least on one surface. The adhesive member is preferably approximately the same size as the printing plate. The printing plate is mounted to the adhesive member such that there is one region of the adhesive member which is not initially covered by the printing plate and one region of the printing plate which overhangs the adhesive member.

Full Text	SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOUNTING A PLATE TO AN ADHESIVE MEMBER TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates in one embodiment to the printing industry and more specifically, relates to a method for mounting a printing plate in a circular manner in near perfect alignment more easily and inexpensively, thereby providing near perfect alignment of the resultant printed image. BACKGROUND INFORMATION [0002] The printing industry now nearly exclusively utilizes photographic or digitally imaged printing plates to produce a printed image. Although this invention is primarily aimed at Flexographic printing, it could be used for letterpress and offset printing, rotary screen printing as well as in any operation were it is desirable to wrap a flat planar item around a concave or convex (oval, a round, etc.) cylinder. In some instances, these "printing plates" are utilized only one time since the printed image will generally change with the printing job while in other instances, the printing plates will be re-used and are therefore saved. [0003] Most printing presses utilize a circular drum (commonly called the "plate cylinder") on which the printing plate is mounted. By rotating the plate cylinder and printing plate first in contact with ink and next in contact with the substrate to be printed (paper, plastic, foil, etc.), the image is transferred from the plate to the paper. In the offset lithography process, a transfer drum called the "blanket" is between the printing plate and the printed substrate. [0004] When printing a one color product, proper alignment of the printing plate on the drum is important to maintain proper orientation to the substrate. When printing in multiple colors, the printing press must have one rotating drum and printing plate assembly for each color to be printed. In such cases, proper alignment ("registration") of the printing plates on the drums is essential otherwise, the finished product will have improperly aligned images and colors in addition to improper alignment to the substrate. [0005] In flexographic printing, the plate is usually attached to an expensive plate cylinder using double sided tape called "stickyback". Stickyback has either a solid (usually rubber or polymer) core or foam core with adhesive applied to both sides. If a plate is to be used in a subsequent run of the same or similar product, it may be desirable to keep it mounted on the cylinder. [0006] Since this would tie up that expensive cylinder making it not available for other jobs, an alternative has been employed where the plate is mounted on an intermediate shell or sleeve which slides on and off the plate cylinder. These sleeves are usually metal or some plastic or composite material. While less costly than plate cylinders, sleeves are still quite expensive. Many printers have cited the benefits of sleeve mounting, but do not use it because of the high sleeve cost per unit and because a large inventory of blank sleeves matched in diameter to the various sizes of plate cylinders in stock must be maintained to accommodate new jobs as they are scheduled. [0007] The alignment accuracy of the plates is critical to high quality printing and minimizing waste due to mis-alignment or "mis-register". Substrate and ink waste are usually large expenses to printing companies and they constantly try to minimize this waste. Lower waste also means shorter production time and thus reduced labor and overhead costs. A number of plate mounting systems are commercially available to mount plates directly on the cylinders or onto the sleeves. These systems generally utilize a method of alignment of two points on the surface of the plate, making the assumption that if all multiple images are in registration relative to two points, the entire composite multi color (or multi plate)image will be in registration. The systems generally use CCD cameras or microscopes to achieve this alignment. Some systems employ attachment points (holes or protrusions) which can be mechanically aligned. The same systems are used to mount plates on to plate cylinders or sleeves, so the current use of sleeves does nothing to improve the registration accuracy. [0008] These systems have served the industry well, but they have some limitations. First, not all cylinders are exactly of the same diameter. Diametric differences can be introduced by the stickyback. Therefore, even if the leading or trailing edges or central region of the plates are aligned, there is no guarantee that the following and trailing portion are registered (aligned). Also, there is no way to assure that the individual who mounts the plates uses the same pressure, which can introduce variability. [0009] Accordingly, what is needed is a new system and method for forming a printing plate mounted on a sleeve which is both highly accurate and inexpensive. [0010] The present invention features a novel system and method for forming and adhering a photographic or digitally generated printing plate or other generally flat, planar object into a circular member that can then be inserted onto the drum of a printing press or other device. The invention assumes that the printing plate will have imaged thereon a minimum of one and preferably two or more alignment marks. These alignment marks ensure that the printing plate can be mounted in a circular manner with proper alignment between the marks to prevent image misalignment and image skew. [0011] The present method provides, in addition to a printing plate, an adhesive member. The adhesive member, typically made of any combination of metal, polymer foam, solid polymer, rubber, etc, includes an adhesive layer on at least one side. In some embodiments, there maybe an adhesive layer on the second side as well. The adhesive member has approximately the same lateral dimensions as the printing plate, but may be thicker or thinner. In one embodiment, the piece of member may be provided as a flat, generally planar member having adhesive on at least one surface. In another preferred embodiment, the adhesive member may be provided at least somewhat "pre-formed" or bent into a generally circular form. The adhesive member may be a single or multilayered structure. [0012] In one embodiment, the present invention begins by exposing at least a portion of the adhesive on one surface of the adhesive member and proximate a first edge of the adhesive sheet. The area immediate to the first edge is covered with a release layer that prevents sticking to the adhesive. Next, the photographic plate or other flat generally planar object is attached to the adhesive sheet proximate but not at the edge of the adhesive member. This attachment leaves a region of the adhesive sheet back from the edge to which nothing yet is attached. This dimension of edge can range from approximately V" inch to 2" inches in width, although this is not a limitation of the present invention. [0013] The printing plate is secured to the remainder of the adhesive sheet. This now leaves a section of printing plate which has not yet been attached to the adhesive sheet because of the offset in the initial attachment point. [0014] The partially adhered printing plate and adhesive sheet are next rolled into a circular form and held in place in a printing plate mounting device. Using either a manual or automatic alignment process using equipment such as a microscope, camera, clamp, automated vision system or the like, the registration marks located on each end of the printing plate are properly aligned, the release sheet removed from proximate the first end, and finally the second end of the printing plate is adhered to the first end of the adhesive sheet thus forming a circular "sleeve" which can subsequently be mounted on a printing press drum. Using this method, each and every printing plate will be arranged in a circular format ready to be mounted on a printing press drum in perfect alignment thereby essentially eliminating misalignment or skew caused by improperly aligned printing plates. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0015] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be better understood by reading the following detailed description, taken together with the drawings wherein: [0016] FIG. 1 is side view of the thin film adhesive and printing plate partially assembled in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; [0017] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a printing plate having imaged thereon indicia and several alignment marks; [0018] FIG. 3 is an end view of the thin film and attached printing plate assembled into a sleeve according to the present invention; [0019] FIG. 4 is a top view of the two ends of the printing plate of FIG. 3 aligned on a circular adhesive member; and [0020] FIG. 5 is a side view of an exemplary clamping and alignment device that can be used with the method according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0021] The present invention features a novel system and method for forming a photographically or digitally generated printing plate or other generally flat, planar object into a circular sleeve that can then be inserted onto the drum of a printing press or other device. The invention assumes that the printing plate 10, Fig. 2, will have imaged or otherwise placed thereon one or more and preferably four (4) alignment marks 12 in addition to the indicia 14 (text and/or images) to be printed. Although the present invention will be explained in connection with the flexography method of printing, this is not a limitation of the present invention. [0022] Flexography is a "relief printing process meaning that the image portion of the plate is raised above the "floor" of the plate (such as a rubber stamp). The "letterpress" method is also a relief printing process whereas offset lithography plates are essentially planar and rely on the chemistry of the printing area. The present invention applies equally well to all the above referenced printing technologies and to other areas of technology unrelated to printing. [0023] The alignment or registration marks may be two-dimensional marks imaged on the surface of the printing plate or other generally flat, planar object to be aligned. The two- dimensional marks may include a specific design, such as a dot, cross hair mark or the like, to aid alignment. The alignment or registration marks 12 may also include three- dimensional marks protruding from the generally flat planar surface of the object to be aligned. The tops of these protrusions may also include an alignment aid such as a dot, crosshair mark or the like. The alignment marks 12 ensure that the printing plate can be mounted in a circular manner with proper alignment between the marks to prevent image misalignment and image skew. Although two marks are contemplated as a minimum, there are preferably provided four alignment marks. In addition, only one alignment mark or region having one or more alignment features may be provided, all without departing from the scope of the present invention. [0024] The present method provides, in addition to a printing plate 10, an adhesive member 16, Fig 1. The adhesive member 16, typically made of any combination of metal, polymer foam, solid polymer, rubber, etc, includes an adhesive layer 17 on at least one surface, such as surface 18. In some embodiments, there maybe an adhesive layer on the second surface as well. The adhesive member 16 has approximately the same lateral dimensions (length and width) as the printing plate 10 but may be of a different thickness. [0025] The present invention begins by exposing at least a portion of the adhesive 17 on one surface 18 of the adhesive member 16. Typically, the one surface 18 will be covered by a thin silicone paper or similar release sheet 19. Alternatively, the one surface 18 of the adhesive member may covered by a release sheet in two sections; one larger sheet covering most of the surface 18 and the other, a smaller release sheet 19 disposed only in the region 24 of the adhesive member 16 that will not have the plate 10 attached to it at this time (much like the pull tabs used in printed toner cartridges.) [0026] Next, the plate 10 is attached to the adhesive sheet 16 proximate but not directly at one edge 20 of the adhesive member 16. This attachment method leaves a region 24 of the adhesive sheet 16 back from the edge 20 to which nothing yet is attached. The dimension of the region 24 is preferably 1 inch although this dimension can range from approximately lA inch to 2 inches in width, however this is not a limitation of the present invention. This pre- assembly process will preferably be done on a cylinder because the final sleeve is cylindrical and the laminated construction described will resist significant bending although this is not a limitation on the invention. [0027] The printing plate 10 is secured to the remainder of the adhesive sheet 16. This now leaves a section of printing plate 26 which has not yet been attached to the adhesive sheet 16 because of the offset 24 in the initial attachment point. The dimension of region 24 and 26 are generally the same. The partially adhered printing plate 10 and adhesive sheet 16 are next rolled into a circular form 30, Fig. 3, (typically on a circular form or "mandrel" type of assembly and/or alignment device, as would be appreciated by those of skill in the art) and held in place using, for example, a sleeve assembly device 40, Fig. 5 using clamps 42 (or suction on the cylinder or some other means) and the like. The ends of the structure before final assembly are allowed to move towards each other in the direction indicated generally by arrows 15. The printing sleeve assembly device 40 will allow the alignment marks 12 to be viewed accurately (such as under one or more microscopes 44 or using a machine vision system utilizing cameras) and moved incrementally in any direction necessary to properly align the ends of the printing plate 10 before adhering the second end 26 of the plate 10 to the adhesive member 16 in the region 24. [0028] Using either a manual or automatic alignment process using, for example, micrometers 43 and using equipment such as a microscope, camera, automated vision system or the like, the one or more registration marks 12 located on or near each end of the printing plate 10 are properly aligned and finally the second end region 26 of the printing plate is adhered to the first end region 24 of the adhesive member 16 after removing release sheet 19, thus forming a cylindrical "sleeve" 30 which can subsequently be mounted on a printing press drum. [0029] In the preferred embodiment, the adhesive member 16 is provided in a circular or at least partially circular form. This is particularly necessary when the adhesive member 16 is a multilayered structure including two or more layers. In that case, the multilayered adhesive member 16 must be assembled in a generally circular form otherwise the multilayered structure 16 will be too resistant to bending and will not be able to be formed in a circular manner once the generally flat planar object is adhered to it as one or more of the assemblies will "buckle" and not properly form. [0030] In this and other embodiments, it will be desirable to pre-form the adhesive member 16 into a generally circular form before adhering the generally flat, planar object 10 to its surface, although the alignment methodology described above will work equally as well with a circular adhesive member 16. As those of ordinary skill in the art will know, other adhering methodologies may also be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. [0031] Using this system and method, each and every generally flat, planar object with alignment marks such as printing plates will be arranged in a circular format ready to be mounted on a printing press drum in perfect alignment thereby essentially eliminating misalignment and/or skew caused by improperly aligned printing plates. [0032] It is important to note that the present invention is not intended to be limited to a system or method which must satisfy one or more of any stated objects or features of the invention. It is also important to note that the present invention is not limited to the preferred, exemplary, or primary embodiment(s) described herein. Modifications and substitutions by one of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present invention, which is not to be limited except by any allowed claims and their legal equivalents. AMENDED CLAIMS [received by the International Bureau on 20 November 2007 (20.11.07)] 1. A method for providing near perfect alignment of a generally flat, planar object placed onto a circular form, said method comprising the acts of: providing an adhesive member having at least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive member having a first edge and a second edge and a length and a width; providing a generally flat, planar object having approximately the same length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge and a second edge, the generally flat, planar object having two or more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks located proximate the first and/or the second edge of the generally flat, planar object; adhering the first edge of the generally flat, planar object to the at least one surface of the adhesive member having the adhesive layer beginning a predetermined distance from the first edge of the adhesive member and continuing to adhere the generally flat planar object to the adhesive member such that the second edge of the generally flat planar object overhangs from the second edge of the adhesive member creating an area proximate said second edge of the generally flat planar object not adhered to the adhesive member forming a, generally flat planar object and adhesive member structure; forming said adhered generally flat planar object and adhesive structure into a generally circular shape; placing said adhered generally flat planar object and adhesive member structure onto an alignment device, said alignment device including a mechanism for holding the two or more alignment marks of said generally flat planar object in relationship to one another and for allowing said two or more alignment marks of said generally flat planar object to be aligned relative to one another utilizing said two or more alignment marks; and once said two or more alignment marks of said generally flat planar object have been aligned relative to one another, adhering said previously non-adhered area proximate said second edge of said generally flat planar object to the adhesive layer proximate said first edge on said top surface of said adhesive member. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein said alignment device includes an alignment assistance device, configured for allowing viewing of said at least a first alignment mark/ for facilitating alignment of said two or more alignment marks of said generally flat, planar abject relative to one another. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein said alignment assistance device is selected from the group consisting of a microscope and a camera. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein said generally flat, planar object includes a printing plate having a top surface which includes indicia to be reproduced. 5. The method of claim 1, wherein said two or more alignment marks includes a two dimensional alignment mark proximate one edge of said generally flat, planar object. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein said generally flat planar object includes four corners, and wherein said two or more alignment marks includes four alignment marks, one alignment mark proximate each of said four corners of said generally flat planar object. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein said alignment marks include a two dimensional alignment mark. S. The method of claim 7, wherein each said cwo dimensional alignment mark includes indicia for facilitating alignment of said generally flat planar object. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein said indicia is selected from the group consisting of a dot and a crosshair mark, 10. The method of claim 1, wherein said at least one alignment mark includes a three-dimensional alignment mark. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein said at least one three dimensional alignment mark includes a top region having indicia for facilitating alignment of said generally flat planar object. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein said adhesive member includes a generally flat planar adhesive member. 13. A method for providing near perfect alignment of a printing plate onto a printing equipment cylinder having a generally circular form, said method comprising the acts of: providing a generally flat, planar adhesive member having at least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive member having a first edge and a second edge and a length and a width; providing a printing plate having approximately the same length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge and a second edge, Che printing plate including indicia to be reproduced and having two or more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks located proximate the first and/or the second edge of the printing plate; adhering the first edge of the printing plate to the at least one surface of the adhesive member having the adhesive layer beginning a predetermined distance from the first edge of the adhesive member and continuing to adhere the printing plate to the adhesive member such that the second edge of the printing plate overhangs from the second edge of the adhesive member creating an area proximate said second edge of the printing plate not adhered to the adhesive member forming a printing plate and adhesive member structure; forming said adhered printing plate and adhesive atructure into a generally circular shape; placing said adhered printing plate and adhesive member structure onto an alignment device, said alignment device including a mechanism for holding the two or more alignment marks of said printing plate in relationship to one another while in said generally circular shape, and for allowing said two or more alignment marks of said printing plate to be aligned relative to one another; and once said two or more alignment marks of said printing plate have been aligned relative to one another, adhering said previously non-adhered area proximate said second edge of said printing plate to the adhesive layer proximate said first edge on said Lop surface of said adhesive member. 14. The method of claim 13, wherenin said alignment device includes an alignment assistance device, configured for allowing viewing of said at least a first alignment mark, for facilitating alignment of said first and second edges of said generally flat, planar object relative to one another. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein said alignment assistance device is selected from the group consisting of a microscope and a camera. 16. The method of claim 13, wherein said two or more alignment marks includes a two dimensional alignment mark proximate one edge of said generally flat, planar object. 17. The method of claim 13, wherein said generally flat planar object includes four corners, and wherein said two or more alignment marks includes four alignment marks, one alignment mark proximate each of said four comers of said generally flat planar object. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein said alignment marks include a two dimensional alignment mark. 19. The method of claim 18, wherein each said two dimensional alignment mark includes indicia for facilitating alignment of said generally flat planar object. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein said indicia is selected from the group consisting of a dot and a crosshair mark. 21. The method of claim 13, wherein said at least one alignment mark includes a three-dimensional alignment mark. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein said at least one three dimensional alignment mark includes a top region having indicia for facilitating alignment of said generally flat planar object. A method for providing near perfect alignment of a printing plate onto a printing equipment cylinder having a generally circular form, said method comprising the acts of: providing a generally flat, planar adhesive member having at least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive member having a first edge and a second edge and a length and a width; providing a printing plate having approximately the same length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge and a second edge forming four corners, the printing plate including indicia to be reproduced, and wherein said printing plate includes four alignment marks, one alignment mark proximate each of said four corners of said printing plate; adhering the first edge of the printing plate to the at least one surface of the adhesive member having the adhesive layer beginning a predetermined distance from the first edge of the adhesive member and continuing to adhere the printing plate to the adhesive member such that the second edge of the printing plate overhangs from the second edge of the adhesive member creating an area proximate said second edge of the printing plate not adhered to the adhesive member forming a princing plate and adhesive member structure; forming said adhered printing plate adhesive structure into a generally circular shape; placing said adhered printing plate and adhesive member structure onto an alignment device, said alignment device including a mechanism for holding the first and second edges of said printing plate in relationship to one another in a generally circular shape, and for allowing said four alignment marks, one alignment mark proximate each of said four corners of said printing plate to be aligned relative to one another utilizing said alignment device, said alignment device further including an alignment assistance device, configured for allowing viewing of said four alignment marks, for facilitating alignment of said four alignment marks of said printing plate relative to one another; and once said four alignment marks of said printing plate have been aligned relative to one another, adhering said previously non- adhered area proximate said second edge of said printing plate to the adhesive layer proximate said first edge on said top surface of said adhesive member. A method for providing near perfect alignment of a generally flat, planar object on to an adhesive member, the resultant structure configured for being rolled into a Circular form, said method comprising the acts of: providing an adhesive member having at least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive member having a first edge and a second edge and a length and a width; and providing a generally flat, planar object having approximately the same length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge and a second edge, the generally flat, planar object Having two or more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks located proximate the first and/or the second edge of the generally flat, planar object, said adhesive member and said generally flat, planar object configured for allowing adhering the first edge of the generally flat, planar object to the at least one surface o£ the adhesive member having the adhesive layer beginning a predetermined distance from the first edge of the adhesive member and continuing to adhere the generally flat planar object to che adhesive member such that the second edge of the generally flat planar object overhangs from the second edge of the adhesive member creating an area proximate said second edge of the generally flat planar object not adhered to the adhesive member forming a generally flat planar object and adhesive member structure, and further configured for allowing said generally flat planar object and adhesive member structure to be rolled into a cylindrical form, the two or more alignment marks aligned, and once said two or more alignment marks of said generally flat planar object have been aligned relative to one another, allowing said previously non- adhered area proximate said second edge of said generally flat planar object to be adhered to the adhesive layer proximate said first edge on said top surface of said adhesive member. 25. A method for providing near perfect alignment of a printing plate onto an adhesive member, the resultant structure configured for being rolled into a circular form, said method comprising the acts of: providing an adhesive member having at least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive member having a first edge and a second edge and a length and a width; and providing a printing plate having approximately the same length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge and a second edge, the printing plate having two or more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks located proximate the first and/or the second edge of the printing plate, said adhesive member and said printing plate configured for allowing adhering the first edge of the printing plate to the at least one surface of the adhesive member having the adhesive layer, beginning a predetermined distance from the first edge of the adhesive member and continuing to adhere the generally flat planar object to Che adhesive member such that the second edge of the generally flat planar object overhangs from the second edge of the adhesive member creating an area proximate said second edge of the generally flat planar object not adhered to the adhesive member, for forming a generally flat planar object and adhesive member structure/ and further configured for allowing said generally flat planar object and adhesive member structure to be rolled into a cylindrical form, and once rolled into a cylindrical form, the two or more alignment marks aligned, and once said two or more alignment marks of said generally flat planar object have been aligned relative to one another, allowing said previously non-adhered area proximate said second edge of said generally flat planar obj ect to be adhered to the adhesive layer proximate said first edge on said top surface of said adhesive member. 26. A system for providing near perfect alignment o£ a printing plate onto an adhesive member, the resultant structure configured for being rolled into a circular form, said system comprising: an adhesive member having at least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive member having a first edge and a second edge and a length and a width; a printing plate having approximately the same length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge and a second edge, the printing plate having two or more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks located proximate the first and/or the second edge of the printing plate, said adhesive member and said printing plate configured for allowing adhering the first edge of the printing plate to the at least one surface of the adhesive member having the adhesive layer, beginning a predetermined distance from the first edge of the adhesive member and continuing to adhere the printing plate to the adhesive member such that the second edge of the printing plate overhangs from the second edge of the adhesive member creating an area proximate said second edge of the printing plate not adhered to the adhesive member forming a printing plate and adhesive member structure, and further configured for allowing said printing plate and adhesive member structure to be rolled into a cylindrical form, and once rolled into a cylindrical form, the two or more alignment marks aligned, and once said two or more alignment marks of said printing plate have been aligned relative to one another, allowing said previously non-adhered area proximate said second edge of said printing plate to be adhered to the adhesive layer proximate said first edge on said top surface of said adhesive member,- and an alignment device, said alignment device including a mechanism for holding the first and second edges of said printing plate in relationship to one another and for allowing said two or more alignment marks of said printing plate to be aligned relative to one another, said alignment device including an alignment assistance device, configured for allowing viewing of said two or more alignment marks, for facilitating alignment of two or more alignment marks of said printing plate relative to one another. A system for providing near perfect alignment of a generally flat, planar object onto an adhesive member, the resultant structure configured for being rolled into a circular form, said system comprising: an adhesive member having at least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive member having a first edge and a second edge and a length and a width; and a generally flat, planar object having approximately the same length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge and a second edge, the generally flat, planar object having two or more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks located proximate the first and/or the second edge of the generally flat, planar object, said adhesive member and said generally flat, planar object configured for allowing adhering the first edge of the generally flat, planar object to the at least one surface of the adhesive member having the adhesive layer, beginning a predetermined distance from the first edge of the adhesive member and continuing to adhere the generally flat planar object to the adhesive member such that the second edge of the generally flat planar object overhangs from the second edge of the adhesive member creating an area proximate said second edge of the generally flat planar object not adhered to the adhesive member forming a generally flat planar object and adhesive member structure, and further configured for allowing and generally flat planar object and adhesive member structure to be rolled into a cylindrical form, the cwo or more alignment marks aligned, and once said two or more alignment marks of said generally flat planar object have been aligned relative to one another, allowing said previously non- adhered area proximate said second edge of aaid generally flat planar object to be adhered to the adhesive layer proximate said first edge on said top surface of said adhesive member, 28. A system for providing near perfect alignment of a generally- flat, planar object onto an adhesive member, said system comprising: an adhesive member having a length and a width and at least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon; and a generally flat, planar object having approximately the same length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge and a second edge, the generally flat, planar object having two or more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks located proximate the first and/or the second edge of the generally flat, planar object, said adhesive member and said generally flat, planar object configured for allowing adhering the first edge of the generally flat, planar object to the at least one surface of the adhesive member having the adhesive layer, beginning at a predetermined location on the adhesive member and continuing to adhere the generally flat planar object to the adhesive member, and further configured for allowing said first and second edges of said generally flat planar object to be aligned and formed into a generally circular shape. 29. The system of claim 28, wherein said adhesive member is provided as a generally flat, planar member. 30 The system o£ claim 2B, wherein said adhesive member ia provided as a generally circular member. 31. The system of claim 30, wherein said generally circular adhesive member is a single layer structure. 32. The system of claim 30, wherein said generally circular adhesive member is a multi-layered structure. A method for providing near perfect alignment of a generally flat, planar object onto an adhesive member, said system comprising the acts of: providing an adhesive member having a length and a width and at least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon; and providing a generally flat, planar object having approximately the same length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge and a second edge, the generally flat, planar object having two ax more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks located proximate the first and/or the second edge of the generally flat, planar object, said adhesive member and said generally flat, planar object configured for allowing adhering the first edge of the generally flat, planar object to the at least one surface of the adhesive member having the adhesive layer, beginning at a predetermined location on the adhesive member and continuing to adhere the generally flat planar object to the adhesive member, and further configured for allowing said first and second edges of said generally flat planar object to be aligned using said two or more alignment marks and formed into a generally circular shape. 34. A system for providing near perfect alignment of a generally flat, planar object onto a generally circular adhesive member, said system comprising: a generally circular adhesive member having a length and a width and at least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon; and a generally flat, planar object having approximately the same length and width as said generally circular adhesive member and having a first edge and a second edge, the generally flat, planar object having two or more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks located proximate the first and/or the second edge of the generally flat, planar object, said generally circular adhesive member and said generally flat, planar abject configured for allowing adhering the first edge of the generally flat, planar object to the at least one surface of the generally circular adhesive member having the adhesive layer, beginning at a predetermined location on the generally circular adhesive member and continuing to adhere the generally flat planar object to the generally circular adhesive member, and further configured for allowing said first and second edges of said generally flat planar object to be aligned using said two or more alignment marks. 35. A system for providing near perfect alignment of a generally flat, planar object onto a generally circular adhesive member, said system comprising a generally circular adhesive member having a length and a width and at least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon, said generally circular adhesive member configured for having aligned on its at least one surface with an adhesive layer an object having an initially generally flat, planar shape, said generally flat, planar object having approximately the same length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge and a second edge, the generally flat, planar object having two or more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks located proximate the first and/or the second edge of the generally flat, planar object, said adhesive member and said generally flat, planar object configured for allowing adhering the first edge of the generally flat, planar object to the at least one surface of the adhesive member having the adhesive layer, beginning at a predetermined location on the adhesive member and continuing to adhere the generally flat planar object to the generally circular adhesive member, and further configured for allowing said first and second edges of said generally flat planar object to be aligned using said two or more alignment marks. 36. The system of claim 35 wherein said generally circular adhesive member is a multi-layered structure. A system and method for adhering and aligning a generally flat, planar object to an adhesive layer, and for facilitating the mounting of the generally flat planar object such as a printing plate, in near perfect alignment in a cylindricalmanner. The method includes providing a generally flat, planar object such as a printing plate and an adhesive member having an adhesive layer at least on one surface. The adhesive member is preferably approximately the same size as the printing plate. The printing plate is mounted to the adhesive member such that there is one region of the adhesive member which is not initially covered by the printing plate and one region of the printing plate which overhangs the adhesive member.

Full Text

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOUNTING A PLATE TO AN ADHESIVE MEMBER
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates in one embodiment to the printing industry and more
specifically, relates to a method for mounting a printing plate in a circular manner in near
perfect alignment more easily and inexpensively, thereby providing near perfect alignment
of the resultant printed image.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
[0002] The printing industry now nearly exclusively utilizes photographic or digitally
imaged printing plates to produce a printed image. Although this invention is primarily
aimed at Flexographic printing, it could be used for letterpress and offset printing, rotary
screen printing as well as in any operation were it is desirable to wrap a flat planar item
around a concave or convex (oval, a round, etc.) cylinder. In some instances, these "printing
plates" are utilized only one time since the printed image will generally change with the
printing job while in other instances, the printing plates will be re-used and are therefore
saved.
[0003] Most printing presses utilize a circular drum (commonly called the "plate cylinder")
on which the printing plate is mounted. By rotating the plate cylinder and printing plate first
in contact with ink and next in contact with the substrate to be printed (paper, plastic, foil,

etc.), the image is transferred from the plate to the paper. In the offset lithography process, a
transfer drum called the "blanket" is between the printing plate and the printed substrate.
[0004] When printing a one color product, proper alignment of the printing plate on the
drum is important to maintain proper orientation to the substrate. When printing in multiple
colors, the printing press must have one rotating drum and printing plate assembly for each
color to be printed. In such cases, proper alignment ("registration") of the printing plates on
the drums is essential otherwise, the finished product will have improperly aligned images
and colors in addition to improper alignment to the substrate.
[0005] In flexographic printing, the plate is usually attached to an expensive plate cylinder
using double sided tape called "stickyback". Stickyback has either a solid (usually rubber or
polymer) core or foam core with adhesive applied to both sides. If a plate is to be used in a
subsequent run of the same or similar product, it may be desirable to keep it mounted on the
cylinder.
[0006] Since this would tie up that expensive cylinder making it not available for other jobs,
an alternative has been employed where the plate is mounted on an intermediate shell or
sleeve which slides on and off the plate cylinder. These sleeves are usually metal or some
plastic or composite material. While less costly than plate cylinders, sleeves are still quite
expensive. Many printers have cited the benefits of sleeve mounting, but do not use it
because of the high sleeve cost per unit and because a large inventory of blank sleeves
matched in diameter to the various sizes of plate cylinders in stock must be maintained to
accommodate new jobs as they are scheduled.

[0007] The alignment accuracy of the plates is critical to high quality printing and
minimizing waste due to mis-alignment or "mis-register". Substrate and ink waste are
usually large expenses to printing companies and they constantly try to minimize this waste.
Lower waste also means shorter production time and thus reduced labor and overhead costs.
A number of plate mounting systems are commercially available to mount plates directly on
the cylinders or onto the sleeves. These systems generally utilize a method of alignment of
two points on the surface of the plate, making the assumption that if all multiple images are
in registration relative to two points, the entire composite multi color (or multi plate)image
will be in registration. The systems generally use CCD cameras or microscopes to achieve
this alignment. Some systems employ attachment points (holes or protrusions) which can be
mechanically aligned. The same systems are used to mount plates on to plate cylinders or
sleeves, so the current use of sleeves does nothing to improve the registration accuracy.
[0008] These systems have served the industry well, but they have some limitations. First,
not all cylinders are exactly of the same diameter. Diametric differences can be introduced
by the stickyback. Therefore, even if the leading or trailing edges or central region of the
plates are aligned, there is no guarantee that the following and trailing portion are registered
(aligned). Also, there is no way to assure that the individual who mounts the plates uses the
same pressure, which can introduce variability.
[0009] Accordingly, what is needed is a new system and method for forming a printing plate
mounted on a sleeve which is both highly accurate and inexpensive.

[0010] The present invention features a novel system and method for forming and adhering
a photographic or digitally generated printing plate or other generally flat, planar object into
a circular member that can then be inserted onto the drum of a printing press or other device.
The invention assumes that the printing plate will have imaged thereon a minimum of one
and preferably two or more alignment marks. These alignment marks ensure that the
printing plate can be mounted in a circular manner with proper alignment between the marks
to prevent image misalignment and image skew.
[0011] The present method provides, in addition to a printing plate, an adhesive member.
The adhesive member, typically made of any combination of metal, polymer foam, solid
polymer, rubber, etc, includes an adhesive layer on at least one side. In some embodiments,
there maybe an adhesive layer on the second side as well. The adhesive member has
approximately the same lateral dimensions as the printing plate, but may be thicker or
thinner. In one embodiment, the piece of member may be provided as a flat, generally
planar member having adhesive on at least one surface. In another preferred embodiment,
the adhesive member may be provided at least somewhat "pre-formed" or bent into a
generally circular form. The adhesive member may be a single or multilayered structure.
[0012] In one embodiment, the present invention begins by exposing at least a portion of the
adhesive on one surface of the adhesive member and proximate a first edge of the adhesive
sheet. The area immediate to the first edge is covered with a release layer that prevents

sticking to the adhesive. Next, the photographic plate or other flat generally planar object is
attached to the adhesive sheet proximate but not at the edge of the adhesive member. This
attachment leaves a region of the adhesive sheet back from the edge to which nothing yet is
attached. This dimension of edge can range from approximately V" inch to 2" inches in
width, although this is not a limitation of the present invention.
[0013] The printing plate is secured to the remainder of the adhesive sheet. This now leaves
a section of printing plate which has not yet been attached to the adhesive sheet because of
the offset in the initial attachment point.
[0014] The partially adhered printing plate and adhesive sheet are next rolled into a circular
form and held in place in a printing plate mounting device. Using either a manual or
automatic alignment process using equipment such as a microscope, camera, clamp,
automated vision system or the like, the registration marks located on each end of the
printing plate are properly aligned, the release sheet removed from proximate the first end,
and finally the second end of the printing plate is adhered to the first end of the adhesive
sheet thus forming a circular "sleeve" which can subsequently be mounted on a printing
press drum. Using this method, each and every printing plate will be arranged in a circular
format ready to be mounted on a printing press drum in perfect alignment thereby essentially
eliminating misalignment or skew caused by improperly aligned printing plates.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be better
understood by reading the following detailed description, taken together with the drawings
wherein:
[0016] FIG. 1 is side view of the thin film adhesive and printing plate partially assembled in
accordance with the teachings of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a printing plate having imaged thereon indicia and
several alignment marks;
[0018] FIG. 3 is an end view of the thin film and attached printing plate assembled into a
sleeve according to the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 4 is a top view of the two ends of the printing plate of FIG. 3 aligned on a
circular adhesive member; and
[0020] FIG. 5 is a side view of an exemplary clamping and alignment device that can be
used with the method according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0021] The present invention features a novel system and method for forming a
photographically or digitally generated printing plate or other generally flat, planar object
into a circular sleeve that can then be inserted onto the drum of a printing press or other
device. The invention assumes that the printing plate 10, Fig. 2, will have imaged or

otherwise placed thereon one or more and preferably four (4) alignment marks 12 in
addition to the indicia 14 (text and/or images) to be printed. Although the present invention
will be explained in connection with the flexography method of printing, this is not a
limitation of the present invention.
[0022] Flexography is a "relief printing process meaning that the image portion of the plate
is raised above the "floor" of the plate (such as a rubber stamp). The "letterpress" method is
also a relief printing process whereas offset lithography plates are essentially planar and rely
on the chemistry of the printing area. The present invention applies equally well to all the
above referenced printing technologies and to other areas of technology unrelated to
printing.
[0023] The alignment or registration marks may be two-dimensional marks imaged on the
surface of the printing plate or other generally flat, planar object to be aligned. The two-
dimensional marks may include a specific design, such as a dot, cross hair mark or the like,
to aid alignment. The alignment or registration marks 12 may also include three-
dimensional marks protruding from the generally flat planar surface of the object to be
aligned. The tops of these protrusions may also include an alignment aid such as a dot,
crosshair mark or the like. The alignment marks 12 ensure that the printing plate can be
mounted in a circular manner with proper alignment between the marks to prevent image
misalignment and image skew. Although two marks are contemplated as a minimum, there
are preferably provided four alignment marks. In addition, only one alignment mark or

region having one or more alignment features may be provided, all without departing from
the scope of the present invention.
[0024] The present method provides, in addition to a printing plate 10, an adhesive member
16, Fig 1. The adhesive member 16, typically made of any combination of metal, polymer
foam, solid polymer, rubber, etc, includes an adhesive layer 17 on at least one surface, such
as surface 18. In some embodiments, there maybe an adhesive layer on the second surface
as well. The adhesive member 16 has approximately the same lateral dimensions (length
and width) as the printing plate 10 but may be of a different thickness.
[0025] The present invention begins by exposing at least a portion of the adhesive 17 on one
surface 18 of the adhesive member 16. Typically, the one surface 18 will be covered by a
thin silicone paper or similar release sheet 19. Alternatively, the one surface 18 of the
adhesive member may covered by a release sheet in two sections; one larger sheet covering
most of the surface 18 and the other, a smaller release sheet 19 disposed only in the region
24 of the adhesive member 16 that will not have the plate 10 attached to it at this time
(much like the pull tabs used in printed toner cartridges.)
[0026] Next, the plate 10 is attached to the adhesive sheet 16 proximate but not directly at
one edge 20 of the adhesive member 16. This attachment method leaves a region 24 of the
adhesive sheet 16 back from the edge 20 to which nothing yet is attached. The dimension of
the region 24 is preferably 1 inch although this dimension can range from approximately lA
inch to 2 inches in width, however this is not a limitation of the present invention. This pre-
assembly process will preferably be done on a cylinder because the final sleeve is cylindrical

and the laminated construction described will resist significant bending although this is not
a limitation on the invention.
[0027] The printing plate 10 is secured to the remainder of the adhesive sheet 16. This now
leaves a section of printing plate 26 which has not yet been attached to the adhesive sheet 16
because of the offset 24 in the initial attachment point. The dimension of region 24 and 26
are generally the same. The partially adhered printing plate 10 and adhesive sheet 16 are
next rolled into a circular form 30, Fig. 3, (typically on a circular form or "mandrel" type of
assembly and/or alignment device, as would be appreciated by those of skill in the art) and
held in place using, for example, a sleeve assembly device 40, Fig. 5 using clamps 42 (or
suction on the cylinder or some other means) and the like. The ends of the structure before
final assembly are allowed to move towards each other in the direction indicated generally
by arrows 15. The printing sleeve assembly device 40 will allow the alignment marks 12 to
be viewed accurately (such as under one or more microscopes 44 or using a machine vision
system utilizing cameras) and moved incrementally in any direction necessary to properly
align the ends of the printing plate 10 before adhering the second end 26 of the plate 10 to
the adhesive member 16 in the region 24.
[0028] Using either a manual or automatic alignment process using, for example,
micrometers 43 and using equipment such as a microscope, camera, automated vision
system or the like, the one or more registration marks 12 located on or near each end of the
printing plate 10 are properly aligned and finally the second end region 26 of the printing
plate is adhered to the first end region 24 of the adhesive member 16 after removing release

sheet 19, thus forming a cylindrical "sleeve" 30 which can subsequently be mounted on a
printing press drum.
[0029] In the preferred embodiment, the adhesive member 16 is provided in a circular or at
least partially circular form. This is particularly necessary when the adhesive member 16 is
a multilayered structure including two or more layers. In that case, the multilayered
adhesive member 16 must be assembled in a generally circular form otherwise the
multilayered structure 16 will be too resistant to bending and will not be able to be formed
in a circular manner once the generally flat planar object is adhered to it as one or more of
the assemblies will "buckle" and not properly form.
[0030] In this and other embodiments, it will be desirable to pre-form the adhesive member
16 into a generally circular form before adhering the generally flat, planar object 10 to its
surface, although the alignment methodology described above will work equally as well
with a circular adhesive member 16. As those of ordinary skill in the art will know, other
adhering methodologies may also be used without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0031] Using this system and method, each and every generally flat, planar object with
alignment marks such as printing plates will be arranged in a circular format ready to be
mounted on a printing press drum in perfect alignment thereby essentially eliminating
misalignment and/or skew caused by improperly aligned printing plates.
[0032] It is important to note that the present invention is not intended to be limited to a
system or method which must satisfy one or more of any stated objects or features of the

invention. It is also important to note that the present invention is not limited to the
preferred, exemplary, or primary embodiment(s) described herein. Modifications and
substitutions by one of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the
present invention, which is not to be limited except by any allowed claims and their legal
equivalents.

AMENDED CLAIMS
[received by the International Bureau on 20 November 2007 (20.11.07)]
1. A method for providing near perfect alignment of a generally
flat, planar object placed onto a circular form, said method
comprising the acts of:
providing an adhesive member having at least one surface with
an adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive member having a first edge
and a second edge and a length and a width;
providing a generally flat, planar object having approximately
the same length and width as said adhesive member and having a
first edge and a second edge, the generally flat, planar object
having two or more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks
located proximate the first and/or the second edge of the generally
flat, planar object;
adhering the first edge of the generally flat, planar object
to the at least one surface of the adhesive member having the
adhesive layer beginning a predetermined distance from the first
edge of the adhesive member and continuing to adhere the generally
flat planar object to the adhesive member such that the second edge
of the generally flat planar object overhangs from the second edge
of the adhesive member creating an area proximate said second edge
of the generally flat planar object not adhered to the adhesive
member forming a, generally flat planar object and adhesive member
structure;
forming said adhered generally flat planar object and adhesive
structure into a generally circular shape;
placing said adhered generally flat planar object and adhesive
member structure onto an alignment device, said alignment device
including a mechanism for holding the two or more alignment marks
of said generally flat planar object in relationship to one another
and for allowing said two or more alignment marks of said generally

flat planar object to be aligned relative to one another utilizing
said two or more alignment marks; and
once said two or more alignment marks of said generally flat
planar object have been aligned relative to one another, adhering
said previously non-adhered area proximate said second edge of said
generally flat planar object to the adhesive layer proximate said
first edge on said top surface of said adhesive member.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein said alignment device includes an
alignment assistance device, configured for allowing viewing of
said at least a first alignment mark/ for facilitating alignment
of said two or more alignment marks of said generally flat,
planar abject relative to one another.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein said alignment assistance device
is selected from the group consisting of a microscope and a
camera.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein said generally flat, planar object
includes a printing plate having a top surface which includes
indicia to be reproduced.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein said two or more alignment marks
includes a two dimensional alignment mark proximate one edge of
said generally flat, planar object.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein said generally flat planar object
includes four corners, and wherein said two or more alignment
marks includes four alignment marks, one alignment mark proximate

each of said four corners of said generally flat planar object.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein said alignment marks include a two
dimensional alignment mark.
S. The method of claim 7, wherein each said cwo dimensional
alignment mark includes indicia for facilitating alignment of
said generally flat planar object.
9. The method of claim 8, wherein said indicia is selected from the
group consisting of a dot and a crosshair mark,
10. The method of claim 1, wherein said at least one alignment
mark includes a three-dimensional alignment mark.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein said at least one three
dimensional alignment mark includes a top region having indicia
for facilitating alignment of said generally flat planar object.
12. The method of claim 1, wherein said adhesive member includes a
generally flat planar adhesive member.
13. A method for providing near perfect alignment of a printing
plate onto a printing equipment cylinder having a generally
circular form, said method comprising the acts of:
providing a generally flat, planar adhesive member having at
least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive
member having a first edge and a second edge and a length and a
width;

providing a printing plate having approximately the same
length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge
and a second edge, Che printing plate including indicia to be
reproduced and having two or more alignment marks, the two or more
alignment marks located proximate the first and/or the second edge
of the printing plate;
adhering the first edge of the printing plate to the at least
one surface of the adhesive member having the adhesive layer
beginning a predetermined distance from the first edge of the
adhesive member and continuing to adhere the printing plate to the
adhesive member such that the second edge of the printing plate
overhangs from the second edge of the adhesive member creating an
area proximate said second edge of the printing plate not adhered
to the adhesive member forming a printing plate and adhesive member
structure;
forming said adhered printing plate and adhesive atructure
into a generally circular shape;
placing said adhered printing plate and adhesive member
structure onto an alignment device, said alignment device including
a mechanism for holding the two or more alignment marks of said
printing plate in relationship to one another while in said
generally circular shape, and for allowing said two or more
alignment marks of said printing plate to be aligned relative to
one another; and
once said two or more alignment marks of said printing plate
have been aligned relative to one another, adhering said previously
non-adhered area proximate said second edge of said printing plate
to the adhesive layer proximate said first edge on said Lop surface
of said adhesive member.

14. The method of claim 13, wherenin said alignment device includes
an alignment assistance device, configured for allowing viewing
of said at least a first alignment mark, for facilitating
alignment of said first and second edges of said generally flat,
planar object relative to one another.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein said alignment assistance
device is selected from the group consisting of a microscope and
a camera.
16. The method of claim 13, wherein said two or more alignment
marks includes a two dimensional alignment mark proximate one
edge of said generally flat, planar object.
17. The method of claim 13, wherein said generally flat planar
object includes four corners, and wherein said two or more
alignment marks includes four alignment marks, one alignment mark
proximate each of said four comers of said generally flat planar
object.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein said alignment marks include a
two dimensional alignment mark.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein each said two dimensional
alignment mark includes indicia for facilitating alignment of
said generally flat planar object.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein said indicia is selected from
the group consisting of a dot and a crosshair mark.
21. The method of claim 13, wherein said at least one alignment
mark includes a three-dimensional alignment mark.
22. The method of claim 21, wherein said at least one three
dimensional alignment mark includes a top region having indicia
for facilitating alignment of said generally flat planar object.
A method for providing near perfect alignment of a printing plate
onto a printing equipment cylinder having a generally circular
form, said method comprising the acts of:
providing a generally flat, planar adhesive member having at
least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive
member having a first edge and a second edge and a length and a
width;
providing a printing plate having approximately the same
length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge
and a second edge forming four corners, the printing plate
including indicia to be reproduced, and wherein said printing plate
includes four alignment marks, one alignment mark proximate each of
said four corners of said printing plate;
adhering the first edge of the printing plate to the at least
one surface of the adhesive member having the adhesive layer
beginning a predetermined distance from the first edge of the
adhesive member and continuing to adhere the printing plate to the
adhesive member such that the second edge of the printing plate
overhangs from the second edge of the adhesive member creating an
area proximate said second edge of the printing plate not adhered

to the adhesive member forming a princing plate and adhesive member
structure;
forming said adhered printing plate adhesive structure into a
generally circular shape;
placing said adhered printing plate and adhesive member
structure onto an alignment device, said alignment device including
a mechanism for holding the first and second edges of said printing
plate in relationship to one another in a generally circular shape,
and for allowing said four alignment marks, one alignment mark
proximate each of said four corners of said printing plate to be
aligned relative to one another utilizing said alignment device,
said alignment device further including an alignment assistance
device, configured for allowing viewing of said four alignment
marks, for facilitating alignment of said four alignment marks of
said printing plate relative to one another; and
once said four alignment marks of said printing plate have
been aligned relative to one another, adhering said previously non-
adhered area proximate said second edge of said printing plate to
the adhesive layer proximate said first edge on said top surface of
said adhesive member.
A method for providing near perfect alignment of a generally flat,
planar object on to an adhesive member, the resultant structure
configured for being rolled into a Circular form, said method
comprising the acts of:
providing an adhesive member having at least one surface with
an adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive member having a first edge
and a second edge and a length and a width; and
providing a generally flat, planar object having approximately
the same length and width as said adhesive member and having a

first edge and a second edge, the generally flat, planar object
Having two or more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks
located proximate the first and/or the second edge of the generally
flat, planar object, said adhesive member and said generally flat,
planar object configured for allowing adhering the first edge of
the generally flat, planar object to the at least one surface o£
the adhesive member having the adhesive layer beginning a
predetermined distance from the first edge of the adhesive member
and continuing to adhere the generally flat planar object to che
adhesive member such that the second edge of the generally flat
planar object overhangs from the second edge of the adhesive member
creating an area proximate said second edge of the generally flat
planar object not adhered to the adhesive member forming a
generally flat planar object and adhesive member structure, and
further configured for allowing said generally flat planar object
and adhesive member structure to be rolled into a cylindrical form,
the two or more alignment marks aligned, and once said two or more
alignment marks of said generally flat planar object have been
aligned relative to one another, allowing said previously non-
adhered area proximate said second edge of said generally flat
planar object to be adhered to the adhesive layer proximate said
first edge on said top surface of said adhesive member.
25. A method for providing near perfect alignment of a printing
plate onto an adhesive member, the resultant structure configured
for being rolled into a circular form, said method comprising the
acts of:

providing an adhesive member having at least one surface with
an adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive member having a first edge
and a second edge and a length and a width; and
providing a printing plate having approximately the same
length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge
and a second edge, the printing plate having two or more alignment
marks, the two or more alignment marks located proximate the first
and/or the second edge of the printing plate, said adhesive member
and said printing plate configured for allowing adhering the first
edge of the printing plate to the at least one surface of the
adhesive member having the adhesive layer, beginning a
predetermined distance from the first edge of the adhesive member
and continuing to adhere the generally flat planar object to Che
adhesive member such that the second edge of the generally flat
planar object overhangs from the second edge of the adhesive member
creating an area proximate said second edge of the generally flat
planar object not adhered to the adhesive member, for forming a
generally flat planar object and adhesive member structure/ and
further configured for allowing said generally flat planar object
and adhesive member structure to be rolled into a cylindrical form,
and once rolled into a cylindrical form, the two or more alignment
marks aligned, and once said two or more alignment marks of said
generally flat planar object have been aligned relative to one
another, allowing said previously non-adhered area proximate said
second edge of said generally flat planar obj ect to be adhered to
the adhesive layer proximate said first edge on said top surface of
said adhesive member.

26. A system for providing near perfect alignment o£ a printing
plate onto an adhesive member, the resultant structure configured
for being rolled into a circular form, said system comprising:
an adhesive member having at least one surface with an
adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive member having a first edge and
a second edge and a length and a width;
a printing plate having approximately the same length and
width as said adhesive member and having a first edge and a second
edge, the printing plate having two or more alignment marks, the
two or more alignment marks located proximate the first and/or the
second edge of the printing plate, said adhesive member and said
printing plate configured for allowing adhering the first edge of
the printing plate to the at least one surface of the adhesive
member having the adhesive layer, beginning a predetermined
distance from the first edge of the adhesive member and continuing
to adhere the printing plate to the adhesive member such that the
second edge of the printing plate overhangs from the second edge of
the adhesive member creating an area proximate said second edge of
the printing plate not adhered to the adhesive member forming a
printing plate and adhesive member structure, and further
configured for allowing said printing plate and adhesive member
structure to be rolled into a cylindrical form, and once rolled
into a cylindrical form, the two or more alignment marks aligned,
and once said two or more alignment marks of said printing plate
have been aligned relative to one another, allowing said previously
non-adhered area proximate said second edge of said printing plate
to be adhered to the adhesive layer proximate said first edge on
said top surface of said adhesive member,- and

an alignment device, said alignment device including a
mechanism for holding the first and second edges of said printing
plate in relationship to one another and for allowing said two or
more alignment marks of said printing plate to be aligned relative
to one another, said alignment device including an alignment
assistance device, configured for allowing viewing of said two or
more alignment marks, for facilitating alignment of two or more
alignment marks of said printing plate relative to one another.
A system for providing near perfect alignment of a generally flat,
planar object onto an adhesive member, the resultant structure
configured for being rolled into a circular form, said system
comprising:
an adhesive member having at least one surface with an
adhesive layer thereon, the adhesive member having a first edge and
a second edge and a length and a width; and
a generally flat, planar object having approximately the same
length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge
and a second edge, the generally flat, planar object having two or
more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks located
proximate the first and/or the second edge of the generally flat,
planar object, said adhesive member and said generally flat, planar
object configured for allowing adhering the first edge of the
generally flat, planar object to the at least one surface of the
adhesive member having the adhesive layer, beginning a
predetermined distance from the first edge of the adhesive member
and continuing to adhere the generally flat planar object to the
adhesive member such that the second edge of the generally flat
planar object overhangs from the second edge of the adhesive member
creating an area proximate said second edge of the generally flat

planar object not adhered to the adhesive member forming a
generally flat planar object and adhesive member structure, and
further configured for allowing and generally flat planar object
and adhesive member structure to be rolled into a cylindrical form,
the cwo or more alignment marks aligned, and once said two or more
alignment marks of said generally flat planar object have been
aligned relative to one another, allowing said previously non-
adhered area proximate said second edge of aaid generally flat
planar object to be adhered to the adhesive layer proximate said
first edge on said top surface of said adhesive member,
28. A system for providing near perfect alignment of a generally-
flat, planar object onto an adhesive member, said system
comprising:
an adhesive member having a length and a width and at least
one surface with an adhesive layer thereon; and
a generally flat, planar object having approximately the same
length and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge
and a second edge, the generally flat, planar object having two or
more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks located
proximate the first and/or the second edge of the generally flat,
planar object, said adhesive member and said generally flat, planar
object configured for allowing adhering the first edge of the
generally flat, planar object to the at least one surface of the
adhesive member having the adhesive layer, beginning at a
predetermined location on the adhesive member and continuing to
adhere the generally flat planar object to the adhesive member, and
further configured for allowing said first and second edges of said

generally flat planar object to be aligned and formed into a
generally circular shape.
29. The system of claim 28, wherein said adhesive member is
provided as a generally flat, planar member.
30 The system o£ claim 2B, wherein said adhesive member ia
provided as a generally circular member.
31. The system of claim 30, wherein said generally circular
adhesive member is a single layer structure.
32. The system of claim 30, wherein said generally circular
adhesive member is a multi-layered structure.
A method for providing near perfect alignment of a generally flat,
planar object onto an adhesive member, said system comprising the
acts of:
providing an adhesive member having a length and a width and
at least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon; and
providing a generally flat, planar object having approximately
the same length and width as said adhesive member and having a
first edge and a second edge, the generally flat, planar object
having two ax more alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks
located proximate the first and/or the second edge of the generally
flat, planar object, said adhesive member and said generally flat,
planar object configured for allowing adhering the first edge of
the generally flat, planar object to the at least one surface of
the adhesive member having the adhesive layer, beginning at a
predetermined location on the adhesive member and continuing to

adhere the generally flat planar object to the adhesive member, and
further configured for allowing said first and second edges of said
generally flat planar object to be aligned using said two or more
alignment marks and formed into a generally circular shape.
34. A system for providing near perfect alignment of a generally
flat, planar object onto a generally circular adhesive member, said
system comprising:
a generally circular adhesive member having a length and a
width and at least one surface with an adhesive layer thereon; and
a generally flat, planar object having approximately the same
length and width as said generally circular adhesive member and
having a first edge and a second edge, the generally flat, planar
object having two or more alignment marks, the two or more
alignment marks located proximate the first and/or the second edge
of the generally flat, planar object, said generally circular
adhesive member and said generally flat, planar abject configured
for allowing adhering the first edge of the generally flat, planar
object to the at least one surface of the generally circular
adhesive member having the adhesive layer, beginning at a
predetermined location on the generally circular adhesive member
and continuing to adhere the generally flat planar object to the
generally circular adhesive member, and further configured for
allowing said first and second edges of said generally flat planar
object to be aligned using said two or more alignment marks.
35. A system for providing near perfect alignment of a generally
flat, planar object onto a generally circular adhesive member, said
system comprising a generally circular adhesive member having a

length and a width and at least one surface with an adhesive layer
thereon, said generally circular adhesive member configured for
having aligned on its at least one surface with an adhesive layer
an object having an initially generally flat, planar shape, said
generally flat, planar object having approximately the same length
and width as said adhesive member and having a first edge and a
second edge, the generally flat, planar object having two or more
alignment marks, the two or more alignment marks located proximate
the first and/or the second edge of the generally flat, planar
object, said adhesive member and said generally flat, planar object
configured for allowing adhering the first edge of the generally
flat, planar object to the at least one surface of the adhesive
member having the adhesive layer, beginning at a predetermined
location on the adhesive member and continuing to adhere the
generally flat planar object to the generally circular adhesive
member, and further configured for allowing said first and second
edges of said generally flat planar object to be aligned using said
two or more alignment marks.
36. The system of claim 35 wherein said generally circular
adhesive member is a multi-layered structure.

A system and method for adhering and aligning a generally flat, planar object to
an adhesive layer, and for facilitating the mounting of the generally flat planar
object such as a printing plate, in near perfect alignment in a cylindricalmanner.
The method includes providing a generally flat, planar object such as a printing
plate and an adhesive member having an adhesive layer at least on one surface.
The adhesive member is preferably approximately the same size as the printing
plate. The printing plate is mounted to the adhesive member such that there is
one region of the adhesive member which is not initially covered by the printing
plate and one region of the printing plate which overhangs the adhesive member.

Documents:

http://ipindiaonline.gov.in/patentsearch/GrantedSearch/viewdoc.aspx?id=IuV7qySCXnHRZ0vQzqdj1w==&loc=wDBSZCsAt7zoiVrqcFJsRw==

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Patent Number

268357

Indian Patent Application Number

1668/KOLNP/2008

PG Journal Number

35/2015

Publication Date

28-Aug-2015

Grant Date

27-Aug-2015

Date of Filing

25-Apr-2008

Name of Patentee

GERALD AND TERESA ANN GARTNER, OR THEIR SUCCESSOR, AS TRUSTEES OF THE GERALD J. GARTNER REVOCABLE TRUST U/D/T

Applicant Address

HOLLIS, NEW HAMPSHIRE 03049 USA

Inventors:

#	Inventor's Name	Inventor's Address
1	GARTNER, GERALD, J.	P.O. BOX 1528, 134 DOW ROAD, HOLLIS, NH 03049

PCT International Classification Number

B41C 3/08

PCT International Application Number

PCT/US2006/040448

PCT International Filing date

2006-10-17

PCT Conventions:

#	PCT Application Number	Date of Convention	Priority Country
1	60/727,294	2005-10-17	U.S.A.