Abstract: A printing plate has an outer surface and an inner surface, the outer surface for receiving an image to be transferred to a printing blanket. The printing plate also includes a lead end and a tail end. A first bend and a second bend are formed at a first distance from the lead end of the printing plate, and a third bend is formed at a second distance from the lead end. A recessed portion is thereby formed between the second bend and the third bend, and an angular end portion is formed between the third bend and the lead end. The tail end of the printing plate is bonded to the recessed portion with an adhesive. In order to install the printing plate on the plate cylinder, the source of pressurized fluid is engaged to supply pressurized fluid, e.g. air, through the apertures of the plate cylinder. A press operator mounts an end of the printing plate onto the plate cylinder, aligning the angular end portion of the printing plate with the slot in the plate cylinder.

Abstract: A folder apparatus is disclosed which has at least two side-by-side lead-in tape mechanisms having a left lead-in tape and left exit roller and a corresponding right lead-in tape and right exit roller, the right and left lead-in tapes forming a signature passage for delivery of a signature, and the left exit rollers being at a different height than the right exit rollers. The rollers of the side-by-side tape mechanisms have alternating heights. The exit rollers may be fixed or spring-loaded in the direction of the corresponding roller.

Abstract: A delivery fan includes a plurality of blades defining a fan pocket for receiving a signature. The plurality of blades includes two sets of blades. The blades of one set are axially equally spaced apart and define one side of the pocket. The blades of the other set are axially equally spaced apart and define the other side of the pocket. The blades of both sets of blades have surfaces for engaging opposite sides of the signature and for deforming the signature into undulations extending in a direction transverse to the direction of movement of the signature. While the signature is being engaged and deformed, the frictional contact between the signature and the surfaces in the pocket slows down the signature. This minimizes buckling and/or bouncing of the signature in the pocket.

Abstract: A printing press includes an improved method and apparatus for moving printing cylinders between thrown off positions in which bearers connected with the cylinders are separated and thrown on or printing positions. The printing cylinders are urged to their thrown off positions by springs which, in one embodiment of the invention, apply a biasing force to pivotally mounted support arms for the cylinders. In another embodiment of the invention, the cylinders are mounted on cantilevered leaf springs which urge the cylinders toward their thrown off positions. A motor is provided to apply a force directly to one of the printing cylinders to move it from its thrown off position to its printing position. The other printing cylinders are moved from their thrown off positions to their printing positions under the influence of forces transmitted between bearers connected with the printing cylinders.