Abstract: A flexible image transfer blanket is provided which has a non-extensible backing which is easy to mount onto conventional blanket cylinders, which requires no packing (but which can be used with packing), which does not need to be retensioned during operation, and which prints to the gap better than conventional fabric-reinforced blankets. The image transfer blanket is adapted to be mounted onto a blanket cylinder and includes first and second ends, with at least one of the first and second ends being adapted to be inserted into an axially-extending gap in the blanket cylinder. The blanket includes a image transfer surface layer, at least one woven fabric ply, and a nonextensible base layer. The at least one woven fabric ply includes both warp and weft fibers, with the weft fibers being oriented so that when the blanket is mounted on the blanket cylinder the weft fibers extend circumferentially about the blanket cylinder.

Abstract: An endless belt for use in digital imaging systems is provided having edge to edge uniform flatness, and precise circumferential and edge to edge thickness. The layers comprising the belt may be tailored as desired for use in either image recording, image transfer or sheet transport operations. In one embodiment, the belt includes an elastomeric base layer, an elastomer-impregnated spun cord layer, a woven or non-woven fabric layer, and an elastomeric surface ply. The belt is preferably manufactured by building the layers on a workpiece and then curing the layers.

Abstract: A continuous image transfer belt which is useable in a variable image size offset press system and which is adapted to permit the press to print a variety of different sized printed matter is provided. The image transfer belt includes at least one base ply, at least one layer of a compressible material over the base ply, and a surface ply over the layer of compressible material. Preferably, the belt is continuous. The belt is used in an offset printing system having the capability to print variable-sized images. The system includes a source of ink; at least one plate cylinder and a replaceable sleeve for the plate cylinder, and a printing plate which is adapted to receive ink from the ink source.

Abstract: A continuous image transfer belt which is useable in a variable image size offset press system and which is adapted to permit the press to print a variety of different sized printed matter is provided. The image transfer belt includes at least one base ply, at least one layer of a compressible material over the base ply, and a surface ply over the layer of compressible material Preferably, the belt is continuous. The belt is used in an offset printing system having the capability to print variable-sized images. The system includes a source of ink; at least one plate cylinder and a replaceable sleeve for the plate cylinder, and a printing plate which is adapted to receive ink from the ink source.

Abstract: A printing blanket which resists gauge loss throughout its useful life when subjected to printing nip pressures by retaining at least 95% of its original gauge throughout the useful life of the printing blanket. The printing blanket includes at least a printing surface layer and at least one reinforcing woven fabric ply and may also include a compressible layer. At least one, and preferably all, of the reinforcing woven fabric plies in the blanket construction are treated or fabricated to resist permanent deformation when subjected to printing nip pressures.

Abstract: A printing blanket adapted to be used with a magnetic printing cylinder including a gap extending longitudinally along the outer surface thereof is provided. The printing blanket includes a plurality of plies with a magnetic backing ply which is magnetically adhered to the printing cylinder. The printing blanket is positioned on the printing cylinder such that an end of the printing blanket is bent over an edge and inwardly into the gap. The opposite end of the printing blanket is mounted substantially adjacent the opposite edge of the gap. A tensioning roll or similar device to which the printing blanket may be attached can be disposed in the gap to secure the printing blanket to the printing cylinder more firmly.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for continuously coating a bottom surface of a wear layer of a carpeting strip with latex foam during continuous manufacture of the carpeting strip and wherein such latex foam is cured to define a compressible backing material for the wear layer of such carpeting strip.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting release tape sandwiched between a wear layer and a compressible backing material of a carpeting strip are provided.

Abstract: An apparatus for and method of making a carpeting strip are provided wherein such carpeting strip has integral joining means enabling the forming of a substantially invisible seam between an adjoining pair of carpeting strips upon forming a carpet employing such strips.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for removing scrap ribbons defined by cutting away opposite side edge portions of a carpeting strip.