Abstract: An apparatus and method for mounting a steel rule cutting die board facilitates laser cutting of the kerfs in the die board. An elongate frame supports a plurality of various size partitions having surfaces sized to receive die boards of various radii. A plurality of axially spaced apart metal collars each includes lugs which are complementary to clamping members in a laser die cutting machine, a plurality of radially oriented flat plates having accurately positioned outer edges which engage and locate the die board, and a plurality of brackets, at least two of which are proximate the ends of the die board, which hold and position screws which engage the inside surface of the die board to secure it to the metal collars. The outer edges of the metal collars, between the flat plates, define surfaces obliquely oriented to lines of radius. These outer edges include consumable and replaceable protective covers.

Abstract: A universal edge strip is secured to both leading and trailing edges of a flexographic carrier sheet. A universal edge strip assembly includes the universal edge strip and a retaining clip. The universal edge strip includes a first pair of parallel walls connected to a center web which define a first deep slot or channel. The universal edge strip also includes a second pair of walls connected to the same center web which defines a second J-shaped shallow slot or channel. The first slot receives the carrier sheet which is secured to the universal edge strip by conventional means. One of the walls adjacent the second shallow slot includes a projection or J-shape which defines a throat adjacent the opposite wall. A U-shaped retaining clip is received within the second shallow slot in the universal edge strip at one end of the carrier sheet and is hooked to an undercut lip on the flexographic printing cylinder. As noted, both leading and trailing edges of the carrier sheet include a universal edge strip.

Abstract: An alignment and mounting system for steel rule cutting dies and the like includes multiple elements: registration pins for ensuring proper disposition of the cutting dies on the cutting drum relative to the bolt pattern of the cutting drum, alignment guides disposed in pairs on adjacent edges of a two section die for assuring proper alignment of the two sections and captive, spring biased fasteners which facilitate rapid securement and release of the cutting die to the drum. Each component may be used individually and provides defined and quantifiable benefits. The use of all three elements in combination, however, provides a synergistic effect which speeds the accuracy and repeatability of installation and use of the cutting as well as simplifying removal.

Abstract: An alignment and mounting system for steel rule cutting dies and the like includes multiple elements: registration pins for ensuring proper disposition of the cutting dies on the cutting drum relative to the bolt pattern of the cutting drum, alignment guides disposed in pairs on adjacent edges of a two section die for assuring proper alignment of the two sections and captive, spring biased fasteners which facilitate rapid securement and release of the cutting die to the drum. Each component may be used individually and provides defined and quantifiable benefits. The use of all three elements in combination, however, provides a synergistic effect which speeds the accuracy and repeatability of installation and use of the cutting as well as simplifying removal.

Abstract: A lead edge strip for securing one edge of a flexographic carrier sheet provides improved strength and mounting stability and thus printing accuracy. The edge strip comprises a base portion, a pair of parallel walls extending from said base portion and a short lip for engaging a complementary overhanging edge of a flexographic printing plate cylinder. The carrier sheet is received between the parallel walls and secured there by suitable fastening means. Preferably, the lead edge strip is transparent as this facilitates mounting of the lead edge strip and carrier sheet upon the printing cylinder. The lead edge strip in combination with a carrier sheet is also taught.