Abstract: A reconfigurable web processor, comprising: a first and a second base modules, each of the base modules including an external surface with at least one alignment structure disposed on the external surface; a plurality of pacing rolls, with a different one of the plurality of pacing rolls associated with each of the base modules to adjust the pace of a web moving within the associated base module; a plurality of transducers, with a different one of the plurality of transducers associated with a different one of the base modules and disposed to monitor a characteristic of the web at said associated base module and to generate a transducer signal in accordance therewith; a plurality of pacing servos, with a different one of the plurality of pacing servos associated with each different one of the pacing rolls, each of the pacing servos to adjust the pace of the web in accordance with a different pacing control signal for its associated the pacing roll; and a process head drive disposed to drive a drive roll in a

Abstract: A printing machine designed to accommodate different repeat lengths for a first and second cylinders, that includes: a front and rear frames; a first cylinder cartridge, including a first cylinder with a centerline; a first assembly attached to the front and rear frames for holding the first cylinder cartridge; a second cylinder cartridge separate from the first cylinder cartridge, with the second cylinder cartridge including a second cylinder with a centerline; a first and second cradles for holding the ends of the second cylinder cartridge, with the cradles including a cradle arm with an opening therein; and a second assembly for each cradle for moving its respective cradle to hold different diameter second cylinders in parallel adjacency with the first cylinder. The second assembly is specifically designed to be operable to change the orientation of its respective cradle for each different diameter second cylinder to facilitate lift-off.

Abstract: A printing cylinder system for use in a printing press comprising a unique apparatus and method for tensioning and releasing a flexible printing plate that is wrapped around a printing cylinder and clamped by a clamping mechanism disposed within the printing cylinder and accessed by a longitudinal slot. The invention features a mounting mechanism for holding the clamp mechanism in a relative position within the printing cylinder and including control means for moving the clamping mechanism within the printing cylinder substantially toward or away from the cylindrical slot to either apply tension to the printing plate or release tension on the printing plate. In a further embodiment, the invention comprises a piston assembly for pushing the edge or edges of the printing plate outwardly toward the cylindrical slot opening, upon actuation.