Abstract: A lithographic plate processor (10) includes developer apparatus (12) and chemical distribution apparatus (14, 15). The developer apparatus (12) insures a uniform spreading of the developer over the exposed surface of a lithographic plate traveling through the processor. The developer apparatus (12) includes a pair of spreading members (40, 42) which are pivotally connected to each other by a parallel linkage (44). The parallel linkage (44) in turn is pivotally mounted to a subframe (46). A mechanism is provided for rotating a shaft (94) which drives a linkage to create an oscillating motion in the spreading members (40, 42) to uniformly spread the developer over the surface of the lithographic plate. The chemical distribution apparatus (14, 15) includes a tank (32) in which an agitating bar (38) is provided. The tank is mounted for oscillation and has a plurality of apertures (138) formed in the front wall (130) thereof to distribute chemical from within the tank to a lithographic plate below.

Abstract: A lithographic plate processing system includes apparatus for applying developer to the exposed surface of a lithographic plate, apparatus for spreading the developer uniformly over the exposed surface, a developer apparatus, apparatus for washing excess developer from the plate, and apparatus for applying gum arabic to the exposed surface of the plate, and may include apparatus for drying the plate. The developer spreader apparatus comprises a plurality of rectangularly shaped developer members mounted on a subframe for rotation about axes extending perpendicular to the exposed surface of the lithographic plate and positioned to rotate in overlapping circles. The subframe also supports a common drive apparatus for simultaneously rotating all of the developer members.