Abstract: A process consists of detecting a printed registration mark composed of recognition signals and of a color pilot mark, comparing the image of the signs of the printed registration mark to the signs of a virtual reference registration mark, then defining a basic area for each sign, calculating a geometric center of every basic area, detecting any color pilot mark in these basic areas, calculating and memorizing the geometric center for the detected pilot mark, measuring an offset position between the geometric center of the basic area and the geometric center of the detected color pilot mark and utiliziing the measured offset position for controlling a misregistration correction appliance of a printing press. The device for accomplishing the process includes an arrangement for performing each of the above-mentioned steps.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the setting of the components of a printing machine use a calculating unit which receives all of the data regarding the operating status of each of the components to be controlled. The calculating unit process data relating to the running of the web and compares the data with data obtained by read heads, also sensing the web. The data from the read heads is supplied to the memory of a computer, the computer also having a touch screen for permitting direct control and setting of the components. A printer and a photographic recorder are coupled with the touch screen for displaying the images thereon.