WO2007063744A1

WO2007063744A1 - Method for post-exposure of planographic printing plate, post-exposure apparatus, exposure apparatus, unit for exposure, image-developing method, and image-developing apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2007063744A1
Application number: PCT/JP2006/323192
Authority: WO
Inventors: Hiroshi Matsuoka
Original assignee: Fujifilm Corporation
Priority date: 2005-11-30
Filing date: 2006-11-21
Publication date: 2007-06-07

Abstract

The object is to enable the exposure of a planographic printing plate with a small amount of light while preventing the occurrence of inhibition of radical photopolymerization by oxygen. After an image-developing treatment, an image-recording layer remains on the surface of a planographic printing plate (10) so as to form an image on the surface of the planographic printing plate (10). The surface of the image-recording layer is covered with a liquid layer so that the entrance of oxygen can be blocked. In this state, the entire surface of the image-recording layer is exposed to light having such a wavelength that radical photopolymerization can occur. The entire surface of the image-recording layer which forms an image can be polymerized and cured by completely proceeding radical polymerization without being affected by the inhibition of polymerization by oxygen. In this manner, the printing durability of the planographic printing plate (10) can be improved. By exposing to light while blocking the entrance of oxygen, a high sensitivity can be achieved.

Description

Lithographic printing plate post-exposure method, post-exposure apparatus, exposure apparatus, exposure tool, development method, and development apparatus

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a planographic printing plate provided with an image recording layer for recording a latent image by radical photopolymerization on the surface of a plate-like support, followed by exposure and development processing, and then image recording. The present invention relates to a post-exposure method, a post-exposure device, an exposure device, an exposure tool, a development method, and a development device for a lithographic printing plate for carrying out a photopolymerization layer curing process without an oxygen barrier layer on the layer surface.

Background art

In general, in a method for preparing a lithographic printing plate, a lithographic printing plate precursor photosensitive film provided with a photopolymerizable photosensitive film (image recording layer) on a support is exposed by an exposure apparatus to undergo a polymerization reaction. Wake me up. Thereby, a latent image in which the image portion is solidified is formed. Thereafter, the non-polymerized non-image portion in the photosensitive film on which the latent image of the lithographic printing plate is formed is removed with a developer to prepare a lithographic printing plate. Such a method is widely performed.

[0003] In recent years, in the field of lithographic printing, a CTP (Computer to Plate) system for directly making a lithographic printing plate has been put into practical use. This system receives a supply of unexposed lithographic printing plates. This lithographic printing plate is subjected to a laser exposure process in which image data is recorded on the image recording layer of the original plate of the lithographic printing plate by projecting a laser beam in which a single laser beam from the light source is directly modulated by computer processing. To do. The development process converts the latent image formed on the photosensitive lithographic printing plate into a visible image using an automatic processor.

[0004] In order to use in such a CTP system, development of a lithographic printing plate compatible with laser using radical chain polymerization reaction, which enables fine exposure with high sensitivity by direct irradiation with laser light, is progressing. It is out.

[0005] In the exposure processing for a laser-compatible lithographic printing plate using this radical chain polymerization reaction, the image recording layer is exposed to a laser beam to cause a radical polymerization reaction in the exposed area of the image recording layer. The image recording layer is polymerized and cured. In this exposure process, oxygen in the air deactivates radicals in the image recording layer generated by exposure. This action is a factor that hinders the radical polymerization reaction. For this reason, the sensitivity of the lithographic printing plate is lowered by the radical polymerization reaction being hindered by oxygen in the air in the exposed area of the image recording layer. Therefore, it is difficult to achieve higher sensitivity than a certain level.

[0007] Therefore, in the lithographic printing plate, an overcoat layer such as PVA (polybutyl alcohol) is formed on the image recording layer formed on the aluminum support to block oxygen in the air. In this way, high sensitivity is achieved by preventing oxygen in the air from entering the image recording layer.

[0008] Conventionally, when making a lithographic printing plate provided with an image recording layer for recording a latent image by radical photopolymerization as described above, a method for making a lithographic printing plate for improving printing durability and the following An exposure apparatus has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1, Patent Document 2, Patent Document 3, Patent Document 4, and Patent Document 5). In these, post-exposure treatment after exposure'development treatment or heat treatment is carried out to further polymerize and harden the visible image portion formed on the lithographic printing plate after development.

However, in the lithographic printing plate making method and post-exposure apparatus that perform such post-exposure processing, the overcoat layer is removed at the stage of development or pre-development processing. Therefore, when post-exposure is performed on the lithographic printing plate, oxygen in the air having a function of deactivating radicals in the image recording layer generated by the exposure enters the image recording layer. It is greatly affected by the inhibition of polymerization by oxygen.

[0010] For this reason, in order to obtain a sufficient post-exposure effect, a large light source with very high illuminance must be attached to the post-exposure device, and there is a problem that the post-exposure device becomes large.

[0011] Furthermore, for example, when a mercury lamp is used as a light source with high illuminance to be attached to the post-exposure apparatus, a high-voltage power supply for supplying power to the mercury lamp is required. Furthermore, it takes time for the brightness to stabilize after the mercury lamp is turned on. For this reason, a waiting time of 5 to 10 minutes is required before processing can be performed after the power is turned on, which reduces work efficiency. Even if the planographic printing plate is intermittently carried into the post-exposure unit at intervals of the standby time, the mercury lamp must always be turned on. Therefore, replace the mercury lamp at the end of its lifetime. There is a problem that the period until the time is shortened.

[0012] In addition, it has been difficult to realize a lithographic printing plate developing device integrated with a large apparatus portion for performing post-exposure. Furthermore, in order for a lithographic printing plate made only by a lithographic printing plate development apparatus that does not carry out post-exposure processing to obtain sufficient printing performance, the exposure energy when the lithographic printing plate is exposed is increased. Must be high. For this reason, it is necessary to use a large and expensive light source device with high output for the exposure apparatus.

On the other hand, when the lithographic printing plate is provided with an oxygen-blocking overcoat layer to increase sensitivity, it is necessary to dissolve and remove the overcoat layer in a development step after exposure. PV

A is water soluble. For this reason, the overcoat layer may be dissolved in the developer in the development step and harden as a solid component. In addition, the overcoat layer may not dissolve in the developer and may remain as a solid formation. As a result, the inside of the printing press may be contaminated, and the printed matter may be contaminated.

[0014] Conventionally, as means for solving the above-described problems, there has been proposed means for maintaining the sensitivity and solving the problem that the solid component of the overcoat layer remains in the developer. (For example, see Patent Document 6). Here, when exposing a printing plate precursor provided with a photopolymerizable layer containing a compound having an ethylenically unsaturated bond and a photopolymerization initiator, an overcoat is used to suppress reaction inhibition by oxygen. Instead of the layer (oxygen barrier layer), a transparent sheet larger than the printing plate precursor is overlaid. In order to realize a dilute environment of oxygen and to obtain sheet adhesion, a large transparent sheet is placed on a printing plate precursor on a member having a plurality of suction holes. Imagewise exposure is performed while exhausting from the hole.

[0015] However, in the method of performing the exposure process in such a state that the printing plate precursor is covered with a large transparent sheet, a flexible transparent sheet is applied to the printing plate precursor, and the exposure process is performed through the transparent sheet. For this reason, if the transparent sheet is used many times, dirt or dust adheres to the transparent sheet, or scratches or wrinkles occur on the transparent sheet. As a result, the exposure beam is diffused, resulting in a problem of exposure failure.

In order to avoid this problem, it is necessary to exchange for a new transparent sheet every time exposure processing is performed, which increases processing costs. In addition, a new transparent When replacing with a bright sheet, every time exposure processing is performed, a work process is required in which a transparent sheet is stacked on the surface of the light-sensitive material, which reduces productivity.

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-48326

Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-51426

Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-159811

Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-265069

Patent Document 5: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2002-162753

Patent Document 6: JP-A-9 197655

Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

[0017] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the present invention allows oxygen in the air to be used when post-exposure processing is performed after development processing of a lithographic printing plate so that a lithographic printing plate having sufficient printing durability can be made. It is possible to perform post-exposure processing by performing full-exposure with a small amount of light as required in such a state that oxygen in the air is blocked and does not enter the image recording layer, and light of a wavelength necessary for the post-exposure processing can be obtained. Uses a light source that can illuminate uniformly and illuminate only when post-exposure processing is performed on a lithographic printing plate, and that can be started after post-exposure processing without waiting time, so that the life span can be extended and replaced. It is an object of the present invention to newly provide a post-exposure method, a post-exposure device, a developing device, and a developing method that are possible for a lithographic printing plate.

[0018] Further, in view of the above-described problems, the present invention prevents oxygen in the air from entering the image recording layer by blocking oxygen in the air when the lithographic printing plate is exposed. Thus, it is an object of the present invention to newly provide an exposure apparatus and an exposure tool for a lithographic printing plate that can be efficiently operated with the sensitivity of the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate.

Means for solving the problem

In the post-exposure method of the lithographic printing plate according to claim 1 of the present invention, an image is applied to a lithographic printing plate having an image recording layer on which a latent image is formed by a radical photopolymerization reaction on the surface of a support. Radiation photopolymerization in the image recording layer on which the latent image of the lithographic printing plate was formed by forming a latent photopolymerization reaction by irradiating light for exposure corresponding to Developed to remove non-image areas that were not processed The entire surface of the plate is left to form an image, and the entire surface of the image recording layer is covered with a liquid layer so that oxygen is blocked, and the entire surface is exposed to light having a wavelength that causes radical photopolymerization. This is followed by post-exposure processing.

[0020] According to the above-described post-exposure method, the image recording layer that has been developed and remains so as to form an image on the surface of the lithographic printing plate is covered with a liquid layer to block oxygen. The entire surface is exposed by irradiating light of a wavelength that causes radial photopolymerization through the liquid layer. Thereby, inhibition of radical photopolymerization by oxygen is prevented, and a sufficient radical photopolymerization reaction can be obtained with a small amount of light. As a result, the light of the wavelength necessary for the post-exposure process can be emitted and illuminated uniformly, and the light source can be used only when the post-exposure process is performed on the lithographic printing plate, and the post-exposure process can be started without waiting time. The period until replacement can be extended.

[0021] The post-exposure device according to claim 2 of the present invention is a lithographic printing plate in which an image recording layer on which a latent image is recorded by a radial photopolymerization is formed on the surface of a plate-like support. Radiation photopolymerization was not performed in the image recording layer in which the latent image was formed by developing the lithographic printing plate to form a latent image by solidifying the image area by irradiating exposure light corresponding to the image in the exposure process. In the post-exposure device for improving the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate, the lithographic printing plate is removed from the non-image area. In order to block oxygen on the remaining image recording layer so as to form an image on the surface of the lithographic printing plate being transported on the road, radical light is applied to the image recording layer while being inert to the lithographic printing plate. Liquid to create a layer of liquid that can transmit light of a wavelength that causes polymerization Having a sheet unit for a lithographic printing plate entire being conveyed on the conveying path, a light irradiation unit for irradiating light of a wavelength to cause radical photopolymerization through a layer of liquid, the.

[0022] By configuring as described above, the lithographic printing plate remains on the surface of the lithographic printing plate after being developed in a state where the lithographic printing plate is conveyed on a conveying path that is conveyed in gas. The entire surface of the image recording layer is covered with a liquid layer, and then the entire surface is irradiated with light for post-exposure. As a result, the entire image recording layer on which the image is formed is polymerized and cured so that the radical polymerization reaction can proceed without being affected by the inhibition of polymerization by oxygen, and the lithographic printing plate has a long life. Can be improved. Furthermore, radical light in a state of blocking oxygen The whole surface exposure is performed by irradiating light having a wavelength causing polymerization through the liquid layer. This prevents radical photopolymerization from being inhibited by oxygen, and a sufficient radical photopolymerization reaction can be obtained with a small amount of light. As a result, light of the wavelength required for post-exposure processing can be emitted and illuminated uniformly, and it can be turned on only when post-exposure processing is performed on a lithographic printing plate, and post-exposure processing can be started without waiting time. The post-exposure device for improving the printing durability of an inexpensive lithographic printing plate can be provided by extending the period until the replacement is completed.

[0023] The invention according to claim 3 is the post-exposure device of the lithographic printing plate according to claim 2, wherein the light irradiation unit has a light emitting diode (LED).

[0024] By configuring as described above, in addition to the operation and effect of the invention according to claim 2, the LED has a characteristic of emitting a predetermined amount of light immediately after lighting. Unlike other light sources, which require a long waiting time until the amount of light emitted, it can be lit only when necessary for post-exposure processing. Therefore, by controlling so that the LED is turned on only when the post-exposure processing is performed on the lithographic printing plate, energy waste such as turning on the LED when the post-exposure processing is not performed is eliminated, and post-exposure is performed. The period during which the LED can be used in the equipment (the service life of the LED when used in the post-exposure equipment) can be extended. However, since LEDs are inexpensive, a post-exposure device for improving the printing durability of lithographic printing plates using them can be manufactured at low cost.

The lithographic printing plate exposure apparatus according to claim 9 of the present invention is a lithographic printing plate in which an image recording layer on which a latent image is recorded by radical photopolymerization is formed on the surface of a plate-like support. An exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate, which is carried in an exposure position where an exposure light beam is irradiated without an oxygen blocking layer on the surface of the image recording layer, and performs the exposure process. A transport path that transports the light beam for exposure is formed in a transparent member that is arranged at a distance from the surface of the lithographic printing plate that is transported to the exposure position in the transport path with a liquid interposed therebetween. The light beam for exposure can be transmitted to the lithographic printing plate between the exposure auxiliary member and the lithographic printing plate on the upstream side in the conveyance direction of the exposed auxiliary member on the conveyance path. And a liquid supply unit for filling the liquid.

[0026] By configuring as described above, the image recording layer of the planographic printing plate is covered with a liquid in a state where the planographic printing plate is transported on a transport path transported in gas, and an exposure light beam is formed. Irradiate In this case, the image recording layer is shielded from oxygen in the air. As a result, in the image recording layer, the radical polymerization reaction can proceed efficiently without causing polymerization inhibition due to oxygen, and the latent image can be formed with good polymerization. Further, since the lithographic printing plate is conveyed on a conveyance path for conveying the lithographic printing plate in a gas, it is not necessary to wet the back side of the lithographic printing plate with a liquid. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently block the oxygen power of the image recording layer using the minimum necessary liquid, and to reduce the probability that dust will be mixed into this liquid, and exposure defects due to dust floating in this liquid will be reduced. Can be suppressed.

[0027] The invention according to claim 10 is the lithographic printing plate exposure apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the distance between the exposure auxiliary member and the lithographic printing plate is the distance between the liquid layer produced on the lithographic printing plate. It is set below the thickness.

[0028] By configuring as described above, in addition to the operation and effect of the invention according to claim 9, only the liquid layer enters between the exposure assisting member and the lithographic printing plate, Air can be prevented from entering the liquid layer.

[0029] The invention described in claim 11 is the lithographic printing plate exposure apparatus according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the lithographic printing plate is placed at a position corresponding to the lower side of the exposure auxiliary member disposed on the transport path. A guide member for guiding the lower surface of the plate is arranged.

[0030] By configuring as described above, in addition to the functions and effects of the invention according to claim 9 or claim 10, vibration of the transported lithographic printing plate is suppressed, and image recording of the lithographic printing plate is performed. The exposure process can be performed with the layer always in proper focus.

[0031] The invention according to claim 12 is the lithographic printing plate exposure apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the liquid supply unit is transported immediately from the exposure auxiliary member on the transport path. The upstream side of the transport roller is in contact with the lithographic printing plate, the liquid shower bar that flows down the liquid to the transport roller, and the liquid shower bar force is received by the introduction guide, and the transport roller And a flow-down guide member configured to be introduced between the outer peripheral surface and the arcuate guide portion and to flow between these and guide it onto the planographic printing plate.

[0032] By configuring as described above, in addition to the operation and effect of the invention according to any one of claims 9 to 11, the exposure auxiliary member on the transport path and the transport closest thereto are provided. Place the liquid shower bar at a distance from the transport roller placed upstream in the direction Therefore, it is possible to reduce the size of the apparatus main body.

[0033] An exposure tool according to claim 13 of the present invention provides a transparent member portion to a transported flat plate-like object through a liquid layer that blocks the surface of the object to be exposed to aerodynamic force. An exposure tool for irradiating an object to be exposed by transmitting a light beam for exposure through the transparent member part and the liquid layer, and exposing the object on the bottom surface of the transparent member part A liquid supply opening is disposed at a position across the direction perpendicular to the conveyance direction of the exposed object at the end corresponding to the upstream side of the conveyance direction of the body, and the liquid supplied from the outside of the transparent member portion is supplied to the liquid. It is characterized in that it is configured to be supplied from the liquid supply opening through the path between the bottom surface of the transparent portion of the exposure tool and the object to be exposed.

By configuring as described above, when the object to be exposed is transported on a transport path that transports in the air, the surface of the object to be exposed is covered with liquid and cut off from the air. . As a result, it is possible to efficiently form a latent image without being disturbed by components in the air. Furthermore, the liquid supply opening is in a transparent part of the exposure tool. Thus, the liquid can be sufficiently filled between the surface of the object to be exposed and the transparent portion of the exposure tool with a small amount of liquid supplied.

The lithographic printing plate development method according to claim 14 of the present invention is the development of a lithographic printing plate in which an image recording layer for image formation using a photo-radical polymerization reaction is provided on the surface of a support. In the method, an unexposed portion of the image recording layer on which the latent image is formed is applied to the planographic printing plate on which the latent image is formed by irradiating the image recording layer with exposure light corresponding to the image. The substrate is developed to remove the support and reveal the latent image, and a liquid is supplied onto at least the image recording layer of the developed lithographic printing plate to wash the developer and to clean the surface of the image recording layer. A post-exposure treatment is performed to perform a post-exposure treatment that improves the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate by exposing the entire surface with light having a wavelength that initiates or accelerates the radical photopolymerization reaction in an oxygen-blocked state covered with a liquid.

[0036] According to the above-described lithographic printing plate development method, the developing solution remains so as to form an image on the surface of the lithographic printing plate, and adheres to the image recording layer to wash the developer. When the washing process is performed with this liquid, the surface of the image recording layer is covered with a liquid layer for washing the developer so as to block oxygen, and the surface of the image recording layer is blocked with oxygen. The whole surface exposure is performed by irradiating light having a wavelength that causes radical photopolymerization through the liquid layer. Thereby, inhibition of radical photopolymerization by oxygen is prevented, and a sufficient radical photopolymerization reaction can be obtained with a small amount of light. Therefore, light of the wavelength required for post-exposure processing can be emitted and illuminated uniformly, and only when post-exposure processing is performed on a lithographic printing plate, it can be turned on and post-exposure processing can be started without waiting time. The period until replacement can be extended. Furthermore, the configuration for washing away the developer adhering to the image recording layer with the liquid and the configuration for covering the surface of the image recording layer with the liquid layer so that oxygen is blocked are shared. Thus, the configuration can be simplified.

The lithographic printing plate developing device according to claim 15 of the present invention is a lithographic printing plate in which an image recording layer on which a latent image is recorded by a radial photopolymerization is formed on the surface of a plate-like support. Development is carried out by bringing a lithographic printing plate on which a latent image is formed on the image recording layer by irradiating light for exposure, and removing the unexposed portion of the image recording layer from the support to reveal the image. The image that remains to form an image at least on the surface of the plate, the conveyance path that conveys the lithographic printing plate in which the image is manifested in gas, and the lithographic printing plate that is conveyed on the conveyance path Rinse the liquid so that it adheres on the recording layer! / Flows away the developing solution, and forms a layer that blocks oxygen that can transmit light of a wavelength that causes radical photopolymerization in the image recording layer. Supply the liquid supply unit and the entire image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate that is transported on the transport path! A light irradiation unit for irradiating the surface with light having a wavelength that causes radical photopolymerization through a liquid layer.

[0038] With the configuration as described above, a liquid for cleaning is applied onto the image recording layer of the planographic printing plate by the liquid supply unit while the planographic printing plate is being transported on the transport path for transporting in the gas. The body is supplied and the developer is washed away, and it is left to develop and form an image on the surface of the lithographic printing plate! / After irradiating the whole surface with light for post-exposure from the light irradiation unit with the image recording layer covered with a cleaning liquid layer. As a result, the radical polymerization reaction is allowed to proceed without being affected by the inhibition of polymerization by oxygen, the entire image recording layer formed by forming an image is polymerized and cured, and the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate Can be improved. Further, the whole surface exposure is performed by irradiating light of a wavelength causing radical photopolymerization through the liquid layer in a state of blocking oxygen. This makes oxygen radicals Inhibition of photopolymerization is prevented, and a sufficient radical photopolymerization reaction can be obtained with a small amount of light. For this reason, the light of the wavelength necessary for the post-exposure process can be emitted and illuminated uniformly, and the post-exposure process can be started without waiting time when the post-exposure process is performed on the lithographic printing plate. It is possible to lengthen the period until the light source is exhausted and replaced. Furthermore, the liquid supply unit forces a configuration for washing away the developer adhering to the image recording layer with the liquid and a configuration for covering the surface of the image recording layer with the liquid layer so that oxygen is blocked. Thus, the construction can be simplified and an inexpensive lithographic printing plate developing device can be provided.

[0039] The development method of a lithographic printing plate according to claim 17 of the present invention is a method of developing a lithographic printing plate in which an image recording layer for image formation using a photo-radical polymerization reaction is provided on the surface of a support. As for the development method, the image recording layer on which the latent image is formed is exposed to the lithographic printing plate on which the latent image is formed by irradiating the image recording layer with exposure light corresponding to the image. A hydrophilic layer is formed on the remaining image recording layer so as to form an image on the surface of the lithographic printing plate after the development processing step by removing the portion from the support and revealing the latent image. The entire surface is exposed to light having a wavelength that causes radical photopolymerization in a state in which the components including the solvent of the gum solution are covered with a layer of the gum solution applied to form a protective layer to protect and block the oxygen. Has a protective layer formation process and post-exposure treatment process to improve printing durability of lithographic printing plates

[0040] According to the development method of a lithographic printing plate described above, the development processing is left so as to form an image on the surface of the lithographic printing plate! / Gum solution is applied to form a protective layer for protecting the hydrophilic layer in the image recording layer, and then the gum solution covering the surface of the planographic printing plate in layers is dried. When drying, the component containing the gum solution solvent that covers the surface of the image recording layer in a layered state blocks oxygen and irradiates light of a wavelength that causes radical photopolymerization through this gum solution layer. Thus, the entire surface is exposed. This prevents the radical photopolymerization from being inhibited by oxygen, and a sufficient radical photopolymerization reaction can be obtained with a small amount of light. Therefore, the light of the wavelength necessary for the post-exposure process can be emitted and illuminated uniformly, and the post-exposure process can be started without waiting time because it is lit only when performing the post-exposure process on the lithographic printing plate. It is possible to use a light source that emits light with a small amount of light, which can lengthen the period until the replacement is completed. Furthermore, a configuration for forming a protective layer on the image recording layer and image recording By sharing the structure for covering the surface of the layer so that oxygen is blocked, the structure can be simplified.

[0041] The lithographic printing plate developing device according to claim 18 of the present invention is a lithographic printing plate in which an image recording layer on which a latent image is recorded by a radial photopolymerization is formed on the surface of a plate-like support. A lithographic printing plate on which a latent image is formed on the image recording layer by irradiation with light for exposure, and a developing unit that exposes the unexposed portion of the image recording layer from the support to reveal the image. A transport path for transporting a lithographic printing plate in which an image is manifested in gas, and an image recording layer remaining so as to form an image at least on the surface of the lithographic printing plate transported on the transport path A gum solution for forming a protective layer for protecting the hydrophilic layer is applied on the surface, and the component containing the solvent of the gum solution can transmit light having a wavelength causing radical photopolymerization in the image recording layer and oxygen. Is blocked so that oxygen in the air does not enter the image recording layer. And a light irradiation unit that emits light having a wavelength that causes radical photopolymerization on the entire surface of the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate.

[0042] With the above-described configuration, when the lithographic printing plate is conveyed on a conveyance path that conveys in gas, a gum solution is applied on at least the image recording layer on which the image is formed. The component containing the gum solution solvent can transmit light having a wavelength that causes radical photopolymerization in the image recording layer, blocks oxygen, and oxygen in the air passes through the image recording layer. In a state where it is not allowed to enter, the light irradiation unit irradiates the entire surface with light for post-exposure. The radical polymerization reaction proceeds without any influence from the inhibition of polymerization by oxygen to form an image! /, And the entire image recording layer is polymerized and cured to improve the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate. Can. Further, the whole surface exposure is performed by irradiating light having a wavelength causing radical photopolymerization through the liquid layer in a state of blocking oxygen. Thereby, inhibition of radical photopolymerization by oxygen can be prevented, and a sufficient radical photopolymerization reaction can be obtained with a small amount of light. Therefore, it can emit light of a wavelength necessary for the post-exposure processing and can illuminate uniformly, and it can be turned on only when the post-exposure processing is performed on the lithographic printing plate, and the post-exposure processing can be started without waiting time. A light source that emits a small amount of light can be used, which can extend the period until it is completely replaced. Furthermore, the configuration for forming the protective layer on the image recording layer and the configuration for covering the surface of the image recording layer so that oxygen is blocked are shared, simplifying the configuration. Thus, an inexpensive lithographic printing plate developing device can be provided.

The invention's effect

[0043] According to the post-exposure method and apparatus of the lithographic printing plate of the present invention, when post-exposure processing is performed after the development processing of the lithographic printing plate, oxygen in the air is blocked and oxygen in the air is transferred into the image recording layer. Post-exposure processing can be performed by exposing the entire surface with the required small amount of light in a state where it is prevented from entering. Thereby, printing durability can be improved. In addition, although the amount of light emitted is small, light of the wavelength necessary for the post-exposure processing of the lithographic printing plate can be emitted and illuminated uniformly, and it is lit only when the post-exposure processing is performed on the lithographic printing plate, and there is no waiting time. Since the post-exposure process can be started, it is possible to use a small and inexpensive light source that can extend the period until the life is exhausted and replaced. For this reason, there is an effect that the post-exposure apparatus can be made small and inexpensive.

According to the lithographic printing plate exposure apparatus and exposure tool of the present invention, oxygen in the air enters the image recording layer by blocking oxygen in the air when the lithographic printing plate is exposed. In this way, the work can be efficiently performed with the sensitivity of the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate being increased.

According to the development method and apparatus for a lithographic printing plate of the present invention, in the post-exposure step after the development of the lithographic printing plate, oxygen in the air is blocked and oxygen in the air enters the image recording layer. Expose the entire surface with the required small amount of light. Thereby, a lithographic printing plate having sufficient printing durability can be made. Although the amount of light emitted is small, it emits light of the wavelength necessary for the post-exposure processing of the lithographic printing plate and can be illuminated uniformly, and only lights up when the post-exposure processing is performed on the lithographic printing plate. Since the exposure process can be started, it is possible to use a small and inexpensive light source that can extend the lifetime and replace it with a new one. For this reason, there is an effect that it is possible to manufacture a developing device for a small and inexpensive lithographic printing plate.

According to the lithographic printing plate development method and apparatus of the present invention, the lithographic printing plate is subjected to an exposure treatment and a development treatment, and then a so-called gum solution is applied and dried to protect the hydrophilic layer. During the process of forming a hydrophilic protective layer on the surface of the recording layer, the function of blocking oxygen by the applied gum solution is used to prevent oxygen in the air from entering the image recording layer. . As a result, post-exposure processing is performed to expose the entire surface with a small amount of light. Therefore, it is possible to make a lithographic printing plate having sufficient printing durability. Less light is emitted It emits light of the wavelength required for the post-exposure processing of the lithographic printing plate and can illuminate uniformly, and it lights up only when the post-exposure processing is performed on the lithographic printing plate, and the post-exposure processing can be started without waiting time, thus extending the life It is possible to use a small and inexpensive light source that can extend the period until it is completely replaced. For this reason, there is an effect that it is possible to manufacture a developing device for a lithographic printing plate that is small and inexpensive.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a post-exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram showing, in partial cross section, a post-exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a schematic configuration diagram showing, in partial cross section, a post-exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

4] A perspective view showing a post-exposure tool used in the post-exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a post-exposure tool used in a post-exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a schematic configuration diagram showing, in partial cross section, a post-exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of an exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram showing, in partial cross section, an exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram that shows, in partial cross section, an exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram that shows, in partial cross section, an exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged schematic block diagram showing the main part of a lithographic printing plate exposure apparatus according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, which is shown in partial section. FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a washing unit that also serves as a post-exposure processing unit according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a schematic configuration diagram showing, in partial cross section, a water washing section that also serves as a post-exposure processing section according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a schematic configuration diagram showing, in a partial cross section, another configuration example of a water washing unit that also serves as a post-exposure processing unit according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a schematic configuration diagram showing, in a partial cross-section, still another configuration example of a water washing unit that also serves as a post-exposure processing unit according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a preprocessing unit according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a development processing section according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a main part of a protective layer forming and post-exposure processing section according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a main part of a protective layer forming and post-exposure processing section according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention in partial cross section.

FIG. 20 is a schematic configuration diagram showing, in partial cross section, a main part of a protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit of another configuration example according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a schematic configuration diagram showing, in partial cross section, a main part of a protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit of still another configuration example according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a development processing section according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[FIG. 23] Protective layer formation and post-dew-exposure processing part according to still another configuration example according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention for causing the gum solution to flow down from the liquid shower bar on the outer peripheral surface of the conveying roller used in the processing section. It is a schematic block diagram which takes out and shows the principal part of a structure.

FIG. 24 is a schematic block diagram showing a post-exposure light irradiation unit used in the protective layer formation and the drying section of the post-exposure processing section according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

First, the first to third embodiments will be described with reference to FIG. 1-6.

A first embodiment relating to a post-exposure method and apparatus for improving printing durability of a lithographic printing plate according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. [0050] In the post-exposure apparatus for improving the printing durability of a lithographic printing plate according to this embodiment, an image recording layer for recording a latent image by radical photopolymerization is provided on the surface of a plate-like support. A lithographic printing plate is polymerized by an exposure process to form a latent image, and then developed to a latent image formed by a brush roller in a state of being immersed in a developer. By removing this portion and leaving only the exposed image recording layer portion, the image is made visible, and the planographic printing plate on which this image is made visible is configured as a device for post-exposure processing.

It should be noted that the post-exposure apparatus according to the present embodiment is configured as an independent apparatus that is separate from the lithographic printing plate automatic developing apparatus (not shown), or for transporting the automatic developing apparatus and the lithographic printing plate. Conveyor path is connected via a conveyor belt compressor (not shown), etc., or is integrated, or not shown! Process after the water washing process (cleaning process) after the development processing in the automatic developing device for lithographic printing plates In order to connect to the lithographic printing plate, the lithographic printing plate automatic developing device may be integrated.

[0052] The post-exposure apparatus is an apparatus for improving the printing durability of a lithographic printing plate that performs post-exposure processing on the lithographic printing plate 10 on which an image conveyed on a conveyance path that conveys in the air is made obvious. It is configured as follows.

[0053] This post-exposure apparatus is intended for a photolithographic printing plate or photolithographic printing plate 10 that has been subjected to development processing as a means for forming an image using a photoradical polymerization reaction that is generally used. Then, post-exposure processing is performed.

[0054] The lithographic printing plate 10 (radical polymerization type lithographic printing plate) using the photo-radical polymerization reaction generally used forms an anodic acid coating on the surface of an aluminum support, and further an anodic acid. A multi-layer structure in which an image recording layer is provided on the film. In this planographic printing plate 10, even if a protective layer covering the surface of the image recording layer is provided, the protective layer is removed by the end of the development process, so that it can be used without any change.

[0055] The image recording layer as an image forming means provided on the lithographic printing plate 10 is exposed to a photopolymerizable material with recording light such as a laser, whereby the radical generated by the radical initiator force reacts with the monomer, A radical polymerization reaction in which this monomer is radicalized and repeats reaction with the monomer continues in a chain. This has a large molecular structure The portion that becomes the polymer constitutes a latent image. Note that the portion of the image recording layer where the laser recording light hits is removed and removed by the development process of the planographic printing plate 10 separately performed, and an image is formed on the portion that has become a polymer.

[0056] In the lithographic printing plate 10, only the polymerized portion of the image recording layer remains on the aluminum support by the development process after the exposure process, so that an image is formed. Further, in the lithographic printing plate 10 after the development treatment, it remains that an image is formed on the aluminum support, and the portion of the image recording layer is not sufficiently polymerized. There may be a case where a part of the image recording layer on the side of the aluminum support is insufficiently polymerized.

Therefore, in the post-exposure processing for the lithographic printing plate 10 after the development processing, the entire surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 is uniformly exposed with light having the wavelength of the photosensitive region of the image recording layer by a post-exposure device. Thus, the portion of the image recording layer remaining so as to form an image on the aluminum support is fully polymerized to be cured, thereby improving the printing durability.

In the post-exposure apparatus shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a post-exposure process is performed on the transport path for transporting the lithographic printing plate 10 in the atmosphere, and therefore there are a pair of nip rollers at each predetermined position before and after the post-exposure position. Transport rollers 12 and 14 are arranged.

[0059] Each transport roller 12, 14 rotates and drives one transport roller 12 or 14 with a motor or the like as a drive source (not shown) with the planographic printing plate 10 sandwiched between the transport rollers 12, 14. The lithographic printing plate 10 is conveyed. The transport rollers 12 and 14 may be configured as free rollers. Alternatively, only a roller that is brought into rolling contact with the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 is constituted by a free roller, and in addition to this, a -up roller that is rotationally driven by a driving source for conveying the lithographic printing plate 10 is mounted. May be configured.

[0060] At the post-exposure position set between the two sets of transport rollers 12 and 14, the surface force on the image recording layer side of the transported lithographic printing plate 10 is a predetermined distance (here, approximately lmm force approximately 3 mm) The auxiliary exposure member 16 configured as a transparent member is disposed at the position where the setting is set. Here, as a result of the actual experiment, as described later, when water was supplied onto the lithographic printing plate 10 by the liquid shower bar 26 which is a liquid supply unit, the planographic printing plate 10 was affected by the surface tension of the water. It was confirmed that a water layer having a thickness of approximately 1 mm to approximately 3 mm spread on the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 on the surface until reaching the end of the printing plate 10.

Therefore, in this post-exposure apparatus, the liquid body serving as the liquid supply unit is set so that only a water layer is formed between the planographic printing plate 10 and the bottom surface of the exposure auxiliary member 16 and no air enters. Adjust the amount of water supplied by the shower bar 26. When the thickness of the water layer on the planographic printing plate 10 is controlled to be a predetermined thickness, the distance is equal to or shorter than the predetermined thickness of the controlled water layer. The distance between the planographic printing plate 10 and the bottom surface of the exposure auxiliary member 16 is set.

This exposure assisting member 16 is formed by forming a transparent glass or plastic material into a rectangular plate shape (rectangular shape), with the incident surface and the exit surface (bottom surface) of the laser beam finished flat. . The exposure assisting member 16 may be configured to have a function as a lens.

In this post-exposure apparatus, even if the surface of the water layer on the planographic printing plate 10 is uneven by using the exposure assisting member 16 configured as described above, The surface of the water layer can be planarized by covering the surface with the auxiliary exposure member 16. Further, since the surface of the exposure assisting member 16 is a flat surface, the light incident on the surface is irradiated on the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 on average so as not to cause partial deviation of the light amount. A good post-exposure treatment can be performed.

In this post-exposure apparatus, a post-exposure light irradiation unit 20 is provided in order to perform post-exposure processing via the exposure auxiliary member 16. The light irradiation unit 20 is configured by, for example, collecting a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs, here, ultraviolet LEDs that emit ultraviolet rays) 20A so as to be arranged at a high density such as a staggered pattern. It consists of an LED array light source that is a light source. The light emitting diode 20A emits light having a wavelength suitable for photosensitivity (light having a predetermined wavelength such as infrared light, visible light, or ultraviolet light) suitable for causing a radical photopolymerization reaction in the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10. .

In the post-exposure apparatus, each LED 20A is installed so as to be embedded in the upper surface portion of the exposure assisting member 16 as shown in FIGS. Note that the LED array light source provided with a plurality of LEDs 20A may be configured separately from the exposure assisting member 16. It should be noted that the light irradiation unit 20 may be configured by an EL (Electro Luminescence) element that is a surface light source that emits light having a photosensitive wavelength.

In the post-exposure apparatus, a liquid shower bar 26 as a liquid supply unit is provided at a predetermined position between the exposure auxiliary member 16 on the conveyance path and the conveyance rollers 12 and 14 disposed on the upstream side in the conveyance direction. Are arranged in the direction perpendicular to the conveying direction so as to correspond to the entire range of the planographic printing plate 10 in the width direction.

[0068] The liquid shower bar 26 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape, and a large number of nozzle holes are arranged in a row at equal intervals on the peripheral side face toward the planographic printing plate 10, and the liquid shower bar 26 The liquid (here, water) supplied to the nozzle is ejected from each nozzle cover to form a substantially uniform thin-film liquid layer on the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10. The liquid sprayed from the liquid shower bar 26 and supplied onto the lithographic printing plate 10 spreads so as to wet the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10, and a substantially uniform thin film liquid layer is formed by the surface tension of the liquid. make. At this time, in the post-exposure apparatus, as described above, the amount of water supplied by the liquid shower bar 26 is adjusted, and the thickness of the water layer on the planographic printing plate 10 is controlled to be a predetermined thickness. .

[0069] The substantially uniform thin film-like liquid layer formed on the lithographic printing plate 10 in this way is transported together with the lithographic printing plate 10 to the position of the exposure auxiliary member 16, and the exposure auxiliary member 16 and Enter the space between lithographic printing plate 10 and. After the liquid layer is fully filled without leaving air bubbles in the gap between the exposure aid member 16 and the lithographic printing plate 10, an oxygen-blocking state for exposure processing is created.

[0070] The liquid used here is a solution that can transmit a light beam for post-exposure of the lithographic printing plate 10, is inert to the lithographic printing plate 10, and does not wet the lithographic printing plate 10. be able to. Here, liquid paraffin, silicon oil, etc. can be used in addition to the power of using normal tap water.

[0071] The substantially uniform thin film-like liquid layer formed on the lithographic printing plate 10 is conveyed together with the lithographic printing plate 10 to leave the position of the exposure auxiliary member 16, and the conveyance roller 12 on the downstream side in the conveyance direction, 14 is squeezed out.

[0072] In this way, since the upper force of the lithographic printing plate 10 is also squeezed out or the both-side force of the lithographic printing plate 10 is also spilled, two sets of conveying rollers 12 sandwiching the exposure position are placed below the conveying path. 14 Install a tray member 28 that covers a larger area including the specified range.

In addition, a liquid circulation pipe 30 is installed between the tray member 28 and the liquid shower bar 26. A filter 34, a pump 36, and a heater 38 are disposed between the pipe member 32 constituting the series of liquid circulation pipes 30 and the liquid shower bar 26.

In this liquid circulation pipe 30, the liquid introduced from the liquid inlet opening on the bottom surface of the tray member 28 is sent to the filter 34 through the pipe member 32, filtered, and then sent to the pump 36. This pump 36 pressurizes the liquid sucked from the filter 34 side, sends it to the heater 38, heats it to about 60 ° C to 80 ° C (may be less than the boiling point), and supplies it to the force liquid shower bar 26. The nozzle force of the liquid shaft 26 is also injected at a predetermined flow rate. The new liquid liquid to be supplied to the liquid shower bar 26 through the liquid circulation pipe 30 is supplied to the tray member 28 by means not shown in accordance with the processing amount of the lithographic printing plate 10.

Thereafter, in the exposure apparatus, the heated liquid is supplied to the entire surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 from the shower bar 26 and covered with a liquid layer. As a result, the image recording layer forming the image of the lithographic printing plate 10 is heated to accelerate the radical polymerization reaction, the entire image recording layer forming the image is polymerized and cured, and the lithographic printing plate 10 Printing durability can be improved.

Further, in this post-exposure apparatus, the guide force is applied to the lower side (back side) of the lithographic printing plate 10, which is immediately below the liquid receiving position where the liquid sprayed by the nozzle force of the liquid shower bar 26 hits the lithographic printing plate 10. Install LA 40. The guide roller 40 is supported by rolling and supporting the back surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 to prevent the liquid ejected from the nozzle from hitting the lithographic printing plate 10 to generate vibration. That is, when this guide roller 40 is arranged, the post-exposure processing is performed in a state in which vibration of the lithographic printing plate 10 is suppressed when the nozzle force of the liquid shower bar 26 also receives the injected liquid. Can do.

Further, in this post-exposure apparatus, the surface of the planographic printing plate 10 is dried at a position close to the downstream side in the transport direction from the transport rollers 12 and 14 disposed on the downstream side in the transport direction, so that the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 is about 100 ° C. A drier 39 for blowing hot air heated to is disposed.

In this post-exposure apparatus, hot air heated from the dryer 39 is blown over the entire surface of the image recording layer forming the image of the lithographic printing plate 10. As a result, the image recording layer forming the image Is heated to promote the radical polymerization reaction, and the entire image recording layer can be more reliably polymerized and cured, and the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate 10 can be improved.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 2, the post-exposure apparatus is provided with a lighting control unit for lighting the LED 20A of the LED array light source constituting the light irradiation unit 20 only when necessary for the post-exposure processing. .

Note that, when the LED 20A is used as the light irradiation unit 20 in the post-exposure device, the LED 20A emits light with a predetermined light amount immediately after being turned on. As a result, unlike other light sources that require a long standby time from energization to a predetermined light emission amount, it can be controlled to light up only when necessary for post-exposure processing.

That is, when using another light source that requires a long standby time until the power reaches a predetermined light emission amount when energized, the standby time just before the planographic printing plate 10 is carried into the exposure auxiliary member 16 At this point, the other light source must be turned on. For this reason, it is difficult to control to turn on and off frequently. Therefore, the useless lighting time regardless of the post-exposure processing increases.

The lighting control unit for the LED 20A as the light irradiation unit 20 is transported to a predetermined position on the transport path that is closer to the upstream side in the transport direction than the transport rollers 12 and 14 that are closest to the upstream side in the transport direction of the exposure auxiliary member 16. A plate end detection sensor 21 configured to be able to detect the front end in the transport direction and the rear end in the transport direction of the lithographic printing plate 10 is disposed.

The plate edge detection sensor 21 is composed of, for example, a reflection-type light detection sensor, receives reflected light of the sensor light irradiated to the detection position on the conveyance path, and controls the value of the received light amount to turn on the light source. Transmit to circuit 23.

[0084] This light source lighting control circuit 23 is used when the amount of reflected light received by the plate edge detection sensor 21 changes when the plate edge of the lithographic printing plate 10 passes the detection position on the transport path. It is determined that the plate edge of the plate 10 has been detected. The light source lighting control circuit 23 determines that the plate end of the lithographic printing plate 10 has been detected when the amount of reflected light for detection reaches a predetermined amount when reflected on the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10. Anyway.

Further, in the light source lighting control circuit 23, for example, when the lithographic printing plate 10 starts conveying on the conveyance path and detects the plate edge for the first time, the plate edge is conveyed to the lithographic printing plate 10. Direction tip and When the plate edge is detected for the second time, this plate edge is determined as the trailing edge of the planographic printing plate 10 in the conveying direction.

When the light source lighting control circuit 23 detects the leading edge of the planographic printing plate 10 in the conveying direction, the light source lighting control circuit 23 transmits a control signal for ON operation to the LED light source power source 25 to light the LED 20A. In the control to turn on the LED 20A, the LED 20A is turned on immediately when the leading edge of the planographic printing plate 10 is detected. Alternatively, the light source lighting control circuit 23 measures a predetermined waiting time for lighting until the leading end of the lithographic printing plate 10 in the transport direction reaches immediately before the exposure assisting member 16, and sets the leading end of the lithographic printing plate 10 in the transport direction. LED20A can be turned on when the specified waiting time for lighting has passed since detection.

Further, the light source lighting control circuit 23 is for turning off until the rear end in the transport direction of the planographic printing plate 10 finishes passing through the exposure auxiliary member 16 when the rear end in the transport direction of the planographic printing plate 10 is detected. The predetermined standby time is measured with a timer, and the LED20A is controlled to be turned off when this predetermined turn-off time has elapsed.

In this way, the lighting control unit controls the LED 20A to light only when the lithographic printing plate 10 is subjected to post-exposure processing. This eliminates the energy waste of turning on the LED 20A when it is not being post-exposure processed, and the period during which the LED 20A can be used in the post-exposure system (the service life of the LED 20A when used in the post-exposure system) Can be lengthened. In other words, with this post-exposure device, the LED20A can be turned on more frequently when it is turned on and off more frequently than when the LED20A is continuously turned on. The period that can be done can be lengthened.

[0089] Further, when the LED 20A is used as the light irradiation unit 20, the LED 20A does not generate an extra infrared ray, and uniform illumination with a long life is possible.

Next, the post-exposure operation of the lithographic printing plate in the lithographic printing plate post-exposure device according to the first embodiment configured as described above will be described.

In the post-exposure device for lithographic printing plate, the lithographic printing plate 10 after the development processing is carried into the post-exposure device by a supply unit (not shown).

Then, the developed lithographic printing plate 10 carried into the post-exposure apparatus is carried and conveyed between the pair of conveyance rollers 12 and 14 disposed on the upstream side of the conveyance path. This makes the liquid The liquid sprayed with the nozzle force under the shower bar 26 is supplied onto the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 to form a thin film of liquid on the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10.

The lithographic printing plate 10 is further conveyed and reaches a post-exposure position below the exposure auxiliary member 16. At this time, the LED 20A that is the light irradiation unit 20 is turned on by the lighting control unit. Furthermore, the liquid layer on the lithographic printing plate 10 is extended to the exposure assisting member 16 so that the space between the lithographic printing plate 10 and the exposure assisting member 16 is filled with liquid, and the air It is in a cocoon state without bubbles.

[0094] After that, in the exposure apparatus, the lithographic printing plate 10 is transported from the LED array light source composed of a plurality of LEDs 20A arranged in a staggered grid pattern while the lithographic printing plate 10 is conveyed. A predetermined range having a predetermined length in the transport direction is exposed in a so-called surface exposure state. Thus, the entire surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 is post-exposed on average.

In this post-exposure apparatus, image recording of the lithographic printing plate 10 is performed while the lithographic printing plate 10 is being conveyed from the post-exposure position where the auxiliary exposure member 16 is located to the positions of the conveying rollers 12 and 14 on the downstream side in the conveying direction. The layer is covered with a liquid and maintained in a state where it is shielded from oxygen in the air. As a result, in the image recording layer, the radical polymerization reaction proceeds without being affected by the inhibition of polymerization by oxygen to form an image, and the entire image recording layer is polymerized and cured, so that the lithographic printing plate The printing durability of 10 can be improved.

In this post-exposure apparatus, the light source lighting control circuit 23 controls the plate edge detection sensor 21 to detect the trailing edge of the planographic printing plate 10 in the conveyance direction, and the predetermined waiting time for turning off has elapsed after being measured by a timer. At this point, turn off LED20A.

As described above, the lithographic printing plate 10 is subjected to post-exposure processing at the post-exposure position with the exposure auxiliary member 16, and then the surface liquid is squeezed out by the transport rollers 12 and 14, and downstream in the transport direction. It is dried by the warm air blown from the dryer 39, and is carried out.

In this post-exposure apparatus, the developed image recording of the lithographic printing plate 10 is performed only within a predetermined range before and after the post-exposure position with respect to the lithographic printing plate 10 conveyed on the conveyance path that conveys in the atmosphere. Thin on the layer! A post-exposure is performed in a state in which a liquid film that is a liquid film is formed and oxygen is blocked. For this reason, the amount of liquid used to block oxygen during post-exposure processing can be reduced to the minimum necessary amount. In this post-exposure apparatus, a small amount of liquid used for blocking oxygen during post-exposure processing is circulated while removing dust that is mixed into the liquid using a filter 34 and a pump 36 of the liquid circulation system. To use. As a result, the portion necessary for the post-exposure processing of the lithographic printing plate 10 can be reliably blocked by oxygen with a very small amount of liquid, and the post-exposure processing can be performed satisfactorily.

[0100] Thereafter, in the exposure apparatus, the liquid from which dust has been removed by passing through the filter 34 of the liquid circulation system is supplied to the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10. As a result, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a portion that is not post-exposed due to dust floating in the liquid.

[0101] In this post-exposure apparatus, post-exposure light is irradiated onto the lithographic printing plate 10 being conveyed with the image recording layer facing upward on the conveyance path for conveying in the atmosphere. Exposure processing is possible. As a result, the LED array light source can be arranged at a position higher than the liquid on the planographic printing plate 10 and the liquid shower bar 26 that causes the liquid to flow down, and there is liquid splashing or liquid leakage. Even in the event that the LED array light source gets wet with liquid, it can be prevented.

[0102] Next, a second embodiment relating to a post-exposure apparatus provided with an exposure tool for planographic printing plates according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figs. In the post-exposure device for a lithographic printing plate according to the second embodiment, a unit for supplying liquid onto the lithographic printing plate 10 is integrally formed with the exposure auxiliary member 16.

In the post-exposure apparatus according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. 3, transport rollers 12 that are a pair of up-and-down rollers respectively before and after the post-exposure position on the transport path for transporting the lithographic printing plate 10 in the atmosphere. , 14 and an exposure assisting member 16 having a liquid supply unit, which is a tool used for post-exposure, is arranged on the exposure position of the transport path by a predetermined distance.

[0104] After this, the exposure assisting member 16 provided with a liquid supply unit as an exposure tool is made of a material such as transparent glass or plastic. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the auxiliary exposure member 16 is connected to the rectangular member body 16A, the end surface side member 16B in the longitudinal direction, one end surface member 16C in the short direction, and the tube member 32. It has a connecting end member 16D.

[0105] In this member main body 16A, a U-shaped liquid introduction groove 17A is formed in the end surface portion in the longitudinal direction corresponding to the upstream side in the transport direction. Further, in the member main body 16A, the protruding amount of the end portion 17B corresponding to the side adjacent to the lithographic printing plate 10 side of the liquid introduction groove 17A is separated from the lithographic printing plate 10 in the liquid introduction groove 17A. It is formed so as to be shorter by the width of the liquid supply opening than the protruding amount of the end portion 17C corresponding to the interposed side.

[0106] An end face side member 16B formed in a rectangular parallelepiped having the same length as the longitudinal direction of the member main body 16A and the same width as the thickness of the member main body 16A is fixed to the end portion 17C so as to keep airtightness.

[0107] The end face side member 16B is fixed to the member main body 16A, and the end face member 16C is provided at one end in the longitudinal direction thereof, and the connection end member 16D is provided at the other end so as to keep airtightness. It adheres to.

[0108] A pipe port portion of the pipe member 32 is fixed to the connection end member 16D. The connection end member 16D is configured so that the tube port of the pipe member 32 having one end fixed to the connection end member 16D communicates with the liquid introduction groove 17A in a state of being fixed to the member main body 16A.

[0109] In the exposure assisting member 16, a liquid introduction groove 17A communicating with the tube opening of the tube member 32, and a liquid supply opening formed between the end portion 17B of the member main body 16A and the end surface side member 16B, A liquid supply path communicating in a bowl shape is formed.

[0110] The exposure assisting member 16 is a device that causes the liquid (here, water) fed from the pipe member 32 to flow down in an appropriate amount onto the lithographic printing plate 10 from the liquid introduction groove 17A of the liquid supply path through the liquid supply opening. Has the ability.

As shown in FIG. 3, the post-exposure apparatus is configured such that a guide roller 40 is disposed on the lower side of the conveyance path that is directly below the exposure auxiliary member 16 to guide the lower side surface of the lithographic printing plate 10. .

[0112] The post-exposure apparatus, when performing the post-exposure processing, applies the exposure assisting member 16 to the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 conveyed by the conveying rollers 12, 14 and the guide roller 40. Conveyance method An appropriate amount of liquid is allowed to flow from the liquid supply opening on the improved flow side substantially uniformly over the entire width of the planographic printing plate 10 in the width direction.

[0113] Then, the liquid whose opening force for supplying the liquid of the exposure assisting member 16 also flows down is coupled with the conveying operation of the lithographic printing plate 10, and the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 and the entire lower surface of the exposure assisting member 16. It is filled in between so that air bubbles do not get mixed in. The exposure assisting member 16 flows down the liquid supply opening force liquid on the upstream side in the transport direction of the exposure assisting member 16. As a result, the liquid immediately spreads between the lithographic printing plate 10 and the entire lower surface of the exposure assisting member 16 and quickly fills. Therefore, the lithographic printing plate 10 and the The liquid can be filled between the light auxiliary member 16 and the thickness of the liquid layer formed between the lithographic printing plate 10 and the exposure auxiliary member 16 can be relatively easily increased. it can.

At this time, the liquid supplied onto the lithographic printing plate 10 includes transport rollers 12 and 14 on the upstream side in the transport direction from the post-exposure position, and transport rollers 12 and 14 on the downstream side in the transport direction from the post-exposure position. It spreads between 14 and a layered state due to surface tension.

[0115] In this post-exposure device for a lithographic printing plate, while the liquid is filled between the exposure auxiliary member 16 and the lithographic printing plate 10, the lithographic printing plate 10 is conveyed while being conveyed by the conveying rollers 12 and 14. The post-exposure light emitted from the irradiation unit 20 is subjected to a so-called surface exposure within a predetermined range of the post-exposure position to perform post-exposure processing.

[0116] At this time, the image recording layer of the developed lithographic printing plate 10 is maintained in a state of being covered with a liquid and shielded from oxygen in the air. As a result, in the developed image recording layer, the radical polymerization reaction proceeds without being affected by the inhibition of polymerization by oxygen, the entire image recording layer forming the image is polymerized and cured, and the planographic The printing durability of the printing plate 10 can be improved.

It should be noted that since the configuration, operation, and effects of the second embodiment of the post-exposure device other than those described above are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, description thereof is omitted.

Next, a third embodiment related to a post-exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The post-exposure apparatus according to the third embodiment is configured to supply liquid onto the lithographic printing plate 10 by using the transport roller 12 closest to the upstream side in the transport direction with respect to the post-exposure position on the transport path. . Further, in the post-exposure apparatus according to the third embodiment, the post-exposure processing is performed directly by the light irradiation unit 20 without using the exposure auxiliary member in a state where the liquid layer is formed on the planographic printing plate 10. Configure as follows.

For this reason, the liquid flows down from the liquid shower bar 26 on the outer peripheral surface on the downstream side in the transport direction with respect to the vertical line passing through the center of the transport roller 12 in the transport roller 12 closest to the upstream side in the transport direction from the post-exposure position. To be configured.

[0120] Further, in this post-exposure apparatus, a flow-down guide member 15 is provided for guiding the liquid to flow along the outer peripheral surface of the transport roller 12 closest to the upstream side in the transport direction from the post-exposure position. Put.

[0121] The flow guide member 15 includes an arcuate guide portion 15A, an introduction guide portion 15B, and a discharge guide portion 15C. The arcuate guide portion 15A is arranged at a predetermined interval with respect to the outer peripheral surface of the conveying roller 12. The introduction guide portion 15B extends from the upper end portion of the arcuate guide portion 15A in the substantially radial direction of the transport roller 12. The discharge guide portion 15C extends in parallel to the surface of the planographic printing plate 10 from the lower end portion of the arcuate guide portion 15A with a predetermined interval.

[0122] Further, an auxiliary flow guide member 19 is disposed in the conveyance roller 12 portion so as to extend in the tangential direction of the conveyance roller 12 in a state of facing the introduction guide portion 15B with a predetermined gap. The auxiliary flow guide member 19 receives the liquid flowing down from the liquid shower bar 26 in cooperation with the introduction guide portion 15B of the flow guide member 15 so as not to overflow.

In the post-exposure apparatus according to the third embodiment configured as described above, the liquid that has flowed down from the liquid shower bar 26 is received by the introduction guide portion 15B and the auxiliary flow-down guide member 19, and the outer periphery of the transport roller 12 It is introduced between the surface and the arcuate guide portion 15A, flows between them along the outer peripheral surface of the transfer port roller 12, and is guided onto the lithographic printing plate 10. In this way, the liquid guided onto the lithographic printing plate 10 is guided by the discharge guide portion 15C and supplied on the entire surface of the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 on the average, and is conveyed upstream of the post-exposure position in the conveyance direction. It spreads between the conveying rollers 12 and 14 disposed on the downstream side in the direction, and accumulates in a layered state with a predetermined thickness due to surface tension.

[0124] In the case of such a configuration, the transport roller 12 disposed immediately upstream of the post-exposure position in the transport direction and the transport roller 12 disposed proximate to the downstream of the post-exposure position in the transport direction. There is no need to provide a space for the liquid to flow down from the liquid shower bar 26 between them. Thus, the transport roller 12 disposed immediately upstream of the post-exposure position in the transport direction and the transport roller 12 disposed closest to the downstream of the post-exposure position in the transport direction are disposed close to each other. Therefore, the post-exposure apparatus can be reduced in size.

Further, in this post-exposure apparatus, an LED array light source provided with a plurality of LEDs 20A as the light irradiation unit 20 is disposed above the post-exposure position. Light is emitted from the LED 20A to the developed image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 via a layer for blocking oxygen and blocking oxygen. Shoot.

[0126] In the post-exposure apparatus, even if some unevenness is generated on the surface of the oxygen-blocking liquid layer formed on the developed image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10, light is emitted from the LED 20A. After the exposure process is not hindered. This is different from focusing a recording laser beam on the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 by irradiating the developed image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 with light of a predetermined wavelength for post-exposure. Since it is sufficient if a radical polymerization reaction can be generated, even if the light for post-exposure is scattered by the unevenness formed on the surface of the oxygen blocking liquid layer, the radical polymerization reaction is not affected. It is.

In the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 described above, the exposure assisting member 16 is omitted, and the lithographic printing plate 10 has been subjected to the development processing from the LED 20A through the oxygen blocking liquid layer. It may be configured to irradiate the image recording layer with light for post-exposure.

[0128] Further, in the post-exposure apparatus, the transport roller from which the liquid flows down from the liquid shower bar 26

A flow guide member 15 is provided corresponding to 12. As a result, the liquid that has flowed down can be prevented from splashing and adhering to the LED 20A as the light irradiation unit 20.

It should be noted that since the configuration, operation, and effects of the third embodiment of the post-exposure apparatus other than those described above are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, description thereof is omitted.

Next, the exposure apparatus and exposure tool of the 46th embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 7-11. Note that a description of the same configurations as those in the above third embodiment is omitted.

An exposure apparatus and exposure tool according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the exposure apparatus shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, an irradiation head 320 which is a light beam irradiation unit is provided in order to perform exposure processing via the exposure auxiliary member 16. The irradiation head 320 is configured to emit a laser beam having a predetermined wavelength such as infrared light, visible light, or ultraviolet light modulated based on digital image information. In this exposure apparatus, the recording laser beam emitted from the irradiation head 320 is reflected by the polygon mirror 322 rotated at high speed, further reflected by the reflecting plate 324, and moved and scanned in the sub-scanning direction at the exposure position. Configure as follows.

In this exposure apparatus, a spatial light modulator is used as the light beam irradiation unit. A unit that uses multi-beam exposure to perform multiple recordings at the same time using an LED array or LD array light source consisting of multiple light sources combining optical fibers and LDs. Etc. can be used.

In addition, as indicated by an imaginary line in FIG. 7, a guide member 318 may be installed on the lower side (back side) of the lithographic printing plate 10 conveyed just under the exposure assisting member 16. The guide member 318 keeps the distance between the front surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 and the exposure assisting member 16 at a predetermined distance by sliding and supporting the back surface of the lithographic printing plate 10. When the guide member 318 is disposed, it is possible to suppress the vibration of the lithographic printing plate 10 being conveyed and to perform exposure processing in a state where the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 is always properly focused. Further, the guide member 318 may be constituted by a member that is slidably guided to the lower surface of the planographic printing plate 10 or a roller that is guided by rolling.

Next, the lithographic printing plate exposure operation in the lithographic printing plate exposure apparatus according to the fourth embodiment configured as described above will be described.

In this lithographic printing plate exposure apparatus, a lithographic printing plate precursor (not shown) is supplied onto a conveyance path connected to the exposure apparatus by a supply means.

Then, the lithographic printing plate 10 conveyed on the conveyance path is conveyed between the pair of conveyance rollers 12 and 14 arranged on the upstream side of the conveyance path. The liquid sprayed from the nozzle of the liquid shower bar 26 is supplied onto the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 to form a thin film of liquid on the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10.

The lithographic printing plate 10 is further conveyed and reaches the exposure position below the exposure auxiliary member 16.

At this time, the liquid layer on the planographic printing plate 10 is extended to the exposure assisting member 16. The gap space between the lithographic printing plate 10 and the exposure assisting member 16 is filled with liquid, and no air bubbles are present.

In this exposure apparatus, the lithographic printing plate 10 is modulated based on the digital image information from the irradiation head 320 while moving and scanning in the main scanning direction from the front end to the rear end of the exposure position where the exposure auxiliary member 16 is located. The recording laser beam emitted in this way is reflected by the polygon mirror 322 rotated at high speed, and further reflected by the reflector 324, thereby moving and scanning in the sub-scanning direction at the exposure position. Thus, the exposure assisting member 16 forms an image on the image recording layer of the planographic printing plate 10 and exposes it to record a two-dimensional image (latent image). In this exposure apparatus, the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 is liquid while the lithographic printing plate 10 is also conveyed to the position of the conveying rollers 12 and 14 on the downstream side in the conveying direction. It is in a state of being covered with oxygen and maintained in a state of being shielded from oxygen in the air. As a result, in the image recording layer, the radical polymerization reaction can proceed efficiently without causing polymerization inhibition due to oxygen, and the latent image can be formed with good polymerization.

The lithographic printing plate 10 thus exposed at the exposure position of the exposure assisting member 16 has its surface liquid squeezed out by the transport port rollers 12 and 14, and a dryer 39 on the downstream side in the transport direction. It is dried by the warm air blown from and is taken out to the next processing step.

[0141] The lithographic printing plate 10 on which the latent image is thus formed is then completed as a lithographic printing plate 10 on which an image is formed by development processing. The planographic printing plate 10 on which an image has been formed in this way is mounted on a printing machine (not shown) and used for printing.

[0142] In this exposure apparatus, a thin liquid is formed on the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 only within a predetermined range before and after the exposure position with respect to the lithographic printing plate 10 being conveyed on the conveyance path for conveying in the atmosphere. Scanning exposure is performed in a state where a liquid film is formed and oxygen is blocked. As a result, the amount of liquid used to block oxygen during the exposure process can be reduced to the minimum necessary amount.

In this exposure apparatus, a recording laser beam is irradiated from above at the exposure position onto the lithographic printing plate 10 that is transported on the transport path transporting in the air with the image recording layer facing upward. Exposure processing. The irradiation head 320, the polygon mirror 22, the reflector 324, and the like constituting the exposure unit are arranged at a position higher than the liquid on the planographic printing plate 10 and the liquid shower bar 26 that causes the liquid to flow down. This prevents the exposure unit from being contaminated with liquid even if there is liquid splash or liquid leakage.

Next, a fifth embodiment relating to the exposure apparatus and exposure tool for lithographic printing plates of the present invention will be described mainly with reference to FIG. In the lithographic printing plate exposure apparatus according to the second embodiment, a means for supplying liquid onto the lithographic printing plate 10 to the exposure auxiliary member 16 is integrally configured.

[0145] In the exposure apparatus according to the fifth embodiment shown in Fig. 9, a transport roller that is a pair of up-and-down rollers is provided before and after the exposure position on the transport path for transporting the lithographic printing plate 10 in the atmosphere. Lay 12 and 14 are arranged, and an exposure assisting member 16 provided with a liquid supply means as an exposure tool is arranged on the exposure position of the conveyance path by a predetermined distance. The configuration of the exposure assisting member 16 is the same as that of the second embodiment (see FIGS. 4 and 5).

[0146] The exposure assisting member 16, which is an exposure tool, allows the liquid (here, water) fed from the tube member 32 to pass through the liquid supply groove 17A of the liquid supply path through the liquid supply opening, and the planographic printing plate 10 Move down the appropriate amount.

[0147] The liquid supplied onto the lithographic printing plate 10 spreads between the transport rollers 12 and 14 upstream in the transport direction from the exposure position and the transport rollers 12 and 14 downstream in the transport direction from the exposure position. It becomes a layered state due to surface tension.

In this exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate, the irradiation head is moved and scanned in the main scanning direction by the conveying rollers 12 and 14 in a state where the liquid is filled between the exposure auxiliary member 16 and the lithographic printing plate 10. The recording laser beam modulated and emitted based on the digital image information is reflected by the polygon mirror rotated at a high speed, and further reflected by the reflector 324 to move in the sub-scanning direction at the exposure position. Scan. In this way, an image is formed on the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 and exposed to record a two-dimensional image (latent image).

[0149] At this time, the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 is maintained in a state where it is covered with the liquid and the oxygen force in the air is cut off. Thereby, in the image recording layer, the radical polymerization reaction can proceed efficiently without causing polymerization inhibition due to oxygen, and the latent image can be formed by good polymerization.

[0150] Note that the configuration, operation, and effects of the fifth embodiment other than those described above are the same as those of the fourth embodiment described above, so the description thereof is omitted.

Next, a sixth embodiment relating to an exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG. In the exposure apparatus according to the sixth embodiment, the liquid is supplied onto the lithographic printing plate 10 by using the transport roller 12 closest to the upstream side in the transport direction from the exposure position on the transport path.

In the exposure apparatus according to the sixth embodiment configured as described above, the liquid shower bar 26 receives the liquid that has also flowed down by the introduction guide portion 15B and the auxiliary flow-down guide member 19, and the outer periphery of the transport roller 12. Between the surface and the arcuate guide part 15A Flow along the outer peripheral surface of 12 and guide it onto the lithographic printing plate 10. In this way, the liquid guided onto the lithographic printing plate 10 is guided by the discharge guide portion 15C and is supplied on the average to the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 and is stored in a layered state having a predetermined thickness. It is filled between the lower surface of the exposure assisting member 16 and spreads between the transport rollers 12 and 14 arranged on the upstream side and the downstream side in the transport direction from the exposure position, and accumulates in layers due to surface tension. It becomes a state.

In the case of such a configuration, the liquid is allowed to flow down from the liquid shower bar 26 between the exposure assisting member 16 and the transport roller 12 arranged immediately upstream of the transport direction. No space is required. For this reason, the exposure apparatus can be reduced in size by arranging the exposure auxiliary member 16 and the transport rollers 12 and 14 close to each other. In this exposure apparatus, the flow guide member 15 is provided for the transport roller 12 from which the liquid flows from the liquid shower bar 26. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the liquid that has flowed down from bouncing back and adhering to the surface of the exposure assisting member 16.

It should be noted that since the configuration, operation, and effects of the sixth embodiment other than those described above are the same as those of the fourth embodiment described above, description thereof is omitted.

Next, a lithographic printing plate development method and apparatus according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. The description of the same configuration as that of the first to third embodiments of the present invention will be omitted. The lithographic printing plate developing apparatus according to the present embodiment includes a pre-processing unit 200 shown in FIG. 16 and a developing processing unit 100 shown in FIG.

[0156] The pretreatment unit 200 is configured to subject the lithographic printing plate 10 which is a so-called photopolymer plate to preheating treatment and pre-water washing treatment prior to development processing. The planographic printing plate 10 preprocessed by the preprocessing device 200 is developed by the development processing unit 100. Further, the pre-processing unit 200 applied to the present embodiment may be used separately from the development processing unit 100, or may be used by being connected to the development processing unit 100.

The lithographic printing plate 10 developed by this automatic developing device is, for example, a so-called photopolymer plate (photosensitive lithographic printing plate) generally used. An image recording layer (photosensitive layer) is formed on one surface of a thin plate support made of aluminum or the like via an adhesive layer, and an overcoat layer is provided thereon. The lithographic printing plate 10 has various commonly used types. The exposure unit exposes the image to form a latent image.

In this pretreatment apparatus 200, a preheating unit 204 is provided in the machine frame 202 on the flow direction improving flow side of the planographic printing plate 10, and a prewashing unit 206 as a prewashing process is provided on the downstream side.

In the pre-heating unit 204, a plurality of skewer rollers 210 are disposed in the heating chamber 208. In the heating chamber 208, a heater 214 is provided on the inlet 212 side, and a circulation fan 216 for ventilating the heater 214 is provided!

In the preheating unit 204, when the planographic printing plate 10 passes through the heating chamber 208, a predetermined temperature and a predetermined heating time are set. As a result, the photopolymerization layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 is accurately hardened to increase the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate 10.

On the other hand, the lithographic printing plate 10 that has passed through the heating chamber 208 is sent from the outlet 218 to the pre-washing section 206.

[0162] The pre-water washing section 206 is provided with a water washing tank 220. A washing tank 222 for storing washing water is formed in the washing tank 220.

[0163] In the pre-water washing section 206, conveying rollers 224, 226, and 228 are arranged in a staggered manner on the pre-heating section 204 side. The conveyance rollers 224 and 228 are provided so as to face the upper surface of the planographic printing plate 10. The conveyance roller 226 is disposed between the conveyance rollers 224 and 228 so as to face the lower surface of the planographic printing plate 10.

Accordingly, the lithographic printing plate 10 fed to the pre-washing section 206 is transported while being sandwiched between the transport rollers 224 and 228 and the transport roller 226.

[0165] The pre-water washing section 206 is provided on the downstream side of the transport roller 228 with a pair of brush roller 230 and backup roller 232 force up and down. The contact position between the brush roller 230 and the backup roller 232 is lower than the lower end of the transport roller 228. As a result, the lithographic printing plate 10 is inclined between the conveying rollers 226 and 228, and the brush roller 230 and the backup roller 2 are inclined.

Sent between 32.

[0166] Further, the pre-water washing section 206 has a spray pipe between the conveying roller 228 and the brush roller 230.

A spray pipe 236 is provided above the brush roller 230.

[0167] The spray nozzle 236 sprays cleaning water over the entire area along the axial direction of the brush roller 230 and supplies the cleaning water to the brush material. Therefore, the lithographic printing plate 10 is supplied with washing water. The brush brush 230 is brushed.

[0168] The lithographic printing plate 10 is supplied with cleaning water from the spray pipe 234 to the surface. Further, the lithographic printing plate 10 is fed between the brush roller 230 and the backup roller 232 in a state where cleaning water is accumulated on the surface thereof.

In this lithographic printing plate 10, when cleaning water is accumulated on the surface, the overcoat layer provided on the lithographic printing plate 10 is swollen by the cleaning water and is easily peeled off. Therefore, the overcoat layer can be reliably removed by brushing with the brush roller 230. It is possible to prevent development unevenness from occurring when the development process is performed with the overcoat layer partially remaining.

[0170] When the lithographic printing plate 10 passes between the brush roller 230 and the backup roller 232 that are rotated in a predetermined direction, the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 is brushed by the brush roller 230. The brush roller 230 is mounted so as to obtain a predetermined brush pressure when the planographic printing plate 10 is sandwiched between the backup roller 232 and the backup roller 232.

On the other hand, a skewer roller 238 is provided in the pre-wash unit 206 on the downstream side of the brush roller 230. The skewer roller 238 is disposed above the conveying path of the lithographic printing plate 10 and is brushed by the lithographic printing plate 10 force brush mouth roller 230 that passes between the brush roller 230 and the backup roller 232. To prevent it from lifting up and coming off the transport path.

[0172] When the preprocessing unit 200 is connected to the development processing unit 100, the conveyance roller pair 142 of the development processing unit 100 is provided at the lowermost stream of the pre-water washing unit 206.

The automatic developing device shown in FIG. 17 is used to develop the lithographic printing plate 10 on which an image is exposed by an exposure device (not shown).

[0174] The development processing unit 100 includes a developing unit 114 for processing the lithographic printing plate 10 with a developer, a water washing unit 117, a desensitizing processing unit 118, and a drying unit 120 for drying the lithographic printing plate 10. And have. The water washing section 117 also serves as a post-exposure processing section for supplying water for washing the lithographic printing plate 10 treated with the developer to wash it and to carry out post-exposure processing.

That is, in the development processing unit 100, the development process, the water washing and post-exposure processing process, the desensitization processing process, and the drying process are sequentially performed along the transport direction of the planographic printing plate 10 (the direction of arrow A in the figure). To place.

[0176] A processing tank 122 is provided in the development processing unit 100. The processing tank 122 has a developing tank 124 at a position serving as a developing tank 114 as a processing tank, a receiving member 428 at a position serving as a water washing section 117 that also serves as a post-exposure processing section, and a position serving as a desensitizing processing section 118. A desensitizing treatment tank 128 is formed. Further, the processing tank 122 is provided with a space for the insertion portion 134 on the upstream side of the developing tank 124 (upstream in the transport direction of the planographic printing plate 10), and the drying section 120 on the downstream side of the desensitizing processing tank 128. A space is formed.

[0177] On the outer panel 130 covering the periphery of the processing tank 122, a slit-like insertion port 132 is formed on the insertion side of the planographic printing plate 10 into the development processing unit 100 (left side of the paper as viewed in FIG. 17). Then, the insertion part 134 is formed on the insertion port 132 side of the developing part 114.

The development processing unit 100 is provided with covers 136 and 138 that cover the upper part of the processing tank 122 and the upper part of the drying unit 120. The cover 136 on the side of the tub inlet 132 covers the upper part of the washing unit 117 that also serves as a post-exposure processing unit from the insertion unit 134 of the processing tank 122. The cover 138 is disposed so as to cover the space between the upper part of the water washing part 117 that also serves as a post-exposure processing part and the upper part of the drying part 120.

[0179] Further, the cover 136 has a reentry insertion port (sub-insertion port) 140 for inserting the planographic printing plate 10 between the developing unit 114 and the water washing unit 117 which also serves as a post-exposure processing unit. It is provided. A lithographic printing plate 10 for processing in an automatic developing device (PS plate processor) 100 excluding processing in the developing unit 114 is inserted into the sub-insertion opening 140.

[0180] A pair of rubber conveyance rollers 142 is disposed in the insertion portion 134 adjacent to the sub insertion port 140. The planographic printing plate 10 on which the image has been printed is inserted between the conveyance roller pair 142 by being inserted along the direction of arrow A from the insertion port 132.

[0181] The transport roller pair 142 is driven to rotate, and the lithographic printing plate 10 is drawn from the insertion port 132, and about 15 ° force to the horizontal direction to the developing unit 114 at an angle in the range of 31 °. Send it in. In the development processing unit 100 used for processing the single-sided planographic printing plate 10, the image recording layer (photosensitive surface) is inserted from the insertion port 132 with the image recording layer facing upward. In other words, the lithographic printing plate 10 is processed by the development processing unit 100 with the photosensitive surface facing upward. [0182] The developing tank 124 formed in the processing tank 122 has a substantially mountain shape with the bottom center protruding downward, and an alkaline developer for developing the lithographic printing plate 10 is used. Store.

In the developing tank 124, a transport roller 148 is disposed on the insertion portion 134 side that is the upstream portion of the transport path of the planographic printing plate 10. Further, in the developing tank 124, a transport roller pair 150 is disposed at the center of the PS plate transport path, and a transport roller pair 152 is disposed on the washing unit 117 side that also serves as a downstream post-exposure processing section. Yes.

In the developing tank 124 of the development processing unit 100, a guide 116 is provided between the transport roller 148 and the transport roller pair 150. One end of the guide 116 faces the conveying roller 148 and the other end is directed between the conveying roller pair 150.

As a result, the lithographic printing plate 10 drawn into the development processing unit 100 by the conveyance roller pair 142 is fed between the conveyance roller 148 and the guide 116 and guided on the guide 116 to the conveyance roller pair 150. Be transported.

Further, in the developing tank 124, a brush roller 141 is disposed in the vicinity of the conveyance roller pair 150 so as to face the guide 116. The brush roller 141 is driven to rotate at a predetermined rotation direction and a predetermined rotation speed, and contacts the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 conveyed on the guide 116, thereby brushing the upper surface of the lithographic printing plate 10. . The guide 116 is mounted so that the brush roller 141 contacts the upper surface of the planographic printing plate 10 with a predetermined brush pressure.

[0187] Further, the brush roller 141 also projects the liquid level force of the alkaline developer. The upper part protruding from the liquid surface of the brush roller 141 enters the recess 101B of the shielding cover 101 together with the conveying roller pair 150! /.

On the other hand, in the developing tank 124, a brush roller 143 and a transport roller 160 are disposed between the transport roller pair 150, 152. The brush roller 143 and the conveyance roller 160 are attached so as to face the upper surface side of the lithographic printing plate 10 conveyed between the conveyance roller pair 150 and 152. The brush roller 143 brushes the image recording layer on the upper surface side of the lithographic printing plate 10 by contacting the upper surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 while rotating in a predetermined direction and a predetermined rotation direction. It helps to remove the image recording layer!

[0189] The planographic printing plate 10 drawn from the insertion slot 132 by the pair of transport rollers 142 is After passing under the roller 148 and brushed by the brush roller 141, it is fed between the conveying roller pair 150, and further conveyed by the conveying roller 150 along the guide member 147 in the developing tank 124. Guided diagonally upward toward Pair 152. At this time, the upper surface side of the lithographic printing plate 10 is brushed by the brush roller 143.

[0190] Further, the conveying roller pair 152 is formed of, for example, rubber rollers on the outer periphery, and a washing unit that also serves as a post-exposure processing unit while holding the planographic printing plate 10 and pulling it out from the developing tank 124. Send to 117.

In the developing tank 124, a spray pipe 156 is provided in the vicinity of the guide member 147 between the transport roller pair 150 and the transport roller pair 152. The spray pipe 156 is supplied with the developing solution in the developing tank 124 sucked by a pump (not shown). The developer supplied from the spray pipe 156 is ejected. As a result, the developer in the developing tank 124 is agitated, and the lithographic printing plate 10 can be uniformly processed.

[0192] The lithographic printing plate 10 carried out of the developing tank 124 by the conveying roller pair 152 serves as a post-exposure processing section while the developer adhering to the surface is squeezed out by the conveying opening roller pair 152. It is sent to the washing section 117.

[0193] As described above, the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 is exposed to light and polymerized by radical photopolymerization to form a latent image. Thereafter, the unexposed portion of the image recording layer on which the latent image is formed by the brush roller while being immersed in an alkali developer with respect to the lithographic printing plate is removed to leave only the exposed image recording layer portion. The water washing unit 117, which also serves as a post-exposure processing unit, cleans the lithographic printing plate in which the image is thus made visible, and after washing the developer such as alkali and performing the post-exposure processing, the desensitization processing unit Send to 118.

[0194] By developing the lithographic printing plate 10 after the exposure process, only the polymerized portion of the image recording layer remains on the aluminum support to form an image. At this time, in the lithographic printing plate 10 after the current image processing, the portion of the image recording layer remaining so as to form an image on the aluminum support is not always sufficiently polymerized. In some cases, a part of the image recording layer on the side of the aluminum support is insufficiently polymerized. [0195] Therefore, in the water washing section 117 that also serves as a post-exposure processing section, the entire surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 is uniformly exposed with light having the wavelength of the photosensitive region of the image recording layer by post-exposure processing. As a result, the portion of the image recording layer remaining so as to form an image on the aluminum support is sufficiently polymerized over the whole to be cured, thereby improving the printing durability.

[0196] As shown in Figs. 12 and 13, the rinsing section 117, which also serves as a post-exposure processing section for improving the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate 10, is transported on a substantially horizontal transport path that transports in the atmosphere. With respect to the lithographic printing plate 10 on which the image has been revealed, washing water is sprayed onto the entire front and back surfaces of the lithographic printing plate 10 to wash and drop the developer, and the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 is covered with washing water. A post-exposure treatment that improves the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate 10 in an oxygen-blocked state is performed. As described above, the water washing section 117 has both a structure for washing the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 and a structure for covering the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 with water so as to block oxygen. This simplifies the configuration by reducing the number of parts.

[0197] In the water washing section 117 that also serves as an exposure processing section, a liquid shower bar 26 as a liquid supply unit is installed above the transport path. The liquid shower bar 26 is disposed at a predetermined position between the exposure assisting member 16 and the transport rollers 12 and 14 disposed on the upstream side in the transport direction toward the direction orthogonal to the transport direction, so that the lithographic printing plate 10 It is arranged so that the liquid is ejected corresponding to the entire range in the width direction.

Further, in the water washing section 117 that also serves as the post-exposure processing section, a liquid shower bar 427 serving as a cleaning liquid supply unit is installed below the transport path. The liquid shower bar 427 is disposed at a predetermined position between the transport rollers 12 and 14 disposed on the upstream side in the transport direction from the exposure auxiliary member 16 and the transport rollers 12 and 14 disposed on the downstream side in the transport direction. The liquid is sprayed in the direction orthogonal to the width corresponding to the entire range of the back surface of the planographic printing plate 10 in the width direction.

[0199] The liquid shower bar 427 is configured, for example, in the same manner as the liquid shower bar 26 described above, and a large number of nozzle holes facing the back surface of the planographic printing plate 10 are also liquid (here, at least the developer is washed). The liquid that is liquid) is sprayed from the nozzle nozzles to wash away the image liquid from the back surface of the lithographic printing plate 10.

[0200] Thus, the liquid sprayed from the liquid shower bar 427 hits the back surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 to wash the developer! , Sink and flow into the tray member 428. [0201] In addition, a liquid circulation line 30 is installed between the tray member 428 and the liquid shower bars 26, 427. A filter 34, a pump 36 and a heater 38 are arranged between the pipe member 32 constituting the series of liquid circulation pipes 30 and the liquid shower bars 26 and 427.

[0202] Next, the post-exposure operation of the lithographic printing plate in the water washing section 117 that also serves as the post-exposure processing section for the lithographic printing plate shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 configured as described above will be described.

[0203] In the washing unit 117 serving also as the post-exposure processing unit for the lithographic printing plate, the developed planographic printing plate 10 is carried into the washing unit 117 serving also as the post-exposure processing unit by a supply unit (not shown).

[0204] Then, the developed lithographic printing plate 10 carried into the water washing unit 117 which also serves as a post-exposure processing unit is carried into a pair of conveyance rollers 12 and 14 arranged on the upstream side of the conveyance path. Then transported. As a result, the liquid sprayed with the nozzle force under the liquid shower bar 26 is supplied onto the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 to form a thin film of liquid on the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10.

At this time, the lithographic printing plate 10 is washed with the developer adhering to the image recording layer with water sprayed from the liquid shower bar 26, and the lithographic printing plate with water sprayed from the liquid shower bar 427. The developer adhering to the back surface of 10 is washed.

This lithographic printing plate 10 is further conveyed and reaches a post-exposure position below the exposure auxiliary member 16. At this time, the LED 20A that is the light irradiation unit 20 is turned on by the lighting control unit. Further, the liquid layer on the lithographic printing plate 10 is extended to the exposure auxiliary member 16. The gap space between the lithographic printing plate 10 and the exposure auxiliary member 16 is filled with liquid, and no air bubbles are present.

[0207] After this, the water washing section 117, which also serves as an exposure processing section, transports the lithographic printing plate 10 and LED array light source power composed of a plurality of LEDs 20A arranged in a staggered grid pattern. A predetermined range having a predetermined length in the conveying direction over the entire width in 10 width directions is exposed in a so-called surface exposure state. In this manner, the entire surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 is post-exposed on average.

[0208] In the water washing section 117 that also serves as the post-exposure processing section, while the planographic printing plate 10 is being transported from the post-exposure position where the auxiliary exposure member 16 is located to the positions of the transport rollers 12 and 14 on the downstream side in the transport direction, the planographic plate 10 The image recording layer of the plate 10 is covered with the liquid and is kept shielded from oxygen in the air. For this reason, in the image recording layer, the influence of polymerization inhibition by oxygen is suppressed. It is possible to improve the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate 10 by proceeding without radical polymerization reaction, forming an image, and curing the entire image recording layer as a polymer.

[0209] After this, the water washing unit 117, which also serves as an exposure processing unit, measures the force with a timer when the plate edge detection sensor 21 detects the rear edge of the planographic printing plate 10 in the conveyance direction under the control of the light source lighting control circuit 23. When the specified standby time for turning off has elapsed, LED 20A is turned off.

[0210] As described above, the lithographic printing plate 10 subjected to the post-exposure processing at the post-exposure position where the exposure assisting member 16 is present is squeezed down by the transport rollers 12 and 14, and the dry liquid located downstream of the transport direction is dried. It is dried by warm air blown from the dryer 39 and then carried out.

[0211] The water washing unit 117, which also serves as a post-exposure processing unit, uses a liquid circulation system filter 34 and a pump 36 for the liquid used for cleaning the developer and for blocking oxygen during the post-exposure processing. Circulate and use while removing dust mixed into the liquid.

[0212] Thereafter, the water washing section 117, which also serves as an exposure processing section, supplies the liquid from which dust has been removed by passing through the filter 34 of the liquid circulation system to the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10. As a result, it is possible to prevent occurrence of a portion that is not post-exposed due to dust floating in the liquid.

[0213] The washing unit 117, which also serves as a post-exposure processing unit, emits light for post-exposure to the planographic printing plate 10 that is conveyed with the image recording layer facing upward on the conveyance path that conveys the air. Irradiation from above allows post-exposure processing. The LED array light source is arranged at a position higher than the liquid on the planographic printing plate 10 and the liquid shower bar 26 that allows the liquid to flow down. This prevents the LED array light source from getting wet with liquid even if there is liquid splashing or liquid leakage.

[0214] Next, FIG. 14 mainly shows another configuration example related to the washing unit 117 that also serves as a post-exposure processing unit equipped with an exposure tool for a lithographic printing plate, which is used in the developing device for the lithographic printing plate. explain. In the water washing section 117 also serving as a post-exposure processing section for a lithographic printing plate shown in FIG. 14, a unit for supplying a liquid onto the lithographic printing plate 10 to the exposure assisting member 16 is integrally configured. The configuration of the exposure assisting member 16 is the same as that of the second embodiment (see FIGS. 4 and 5).

[0215] In the water washing section 117 that also serves as a post-exposure processing section shown in FIG. 14, transport rollers 12 that are a pair of up-and-down rollers respectively before and after the post-exposure position on the transport path for transporting the lithographic printing plate 10 in the atmosphere. , 14 and separated by a predetermined distance on the exposure position of the transport path for post-exposure An exposure assisting member 16 having a liquid supply unit as an instrument to be used is arranged.

[0216] The exposure assisting member 16, which is a tool used for subsequent exposure, lithographically prints the liquid (here, water) fed from the tube member 32 through the liquid supply groove 17A of the liquid supply path through the liquid supply opening. Flow down the plate 10 to the required amount.

[0217] In the water washing section 117 also serving as a post-exposure processing section equipped with a tool used for post-exposure shown in Fig. 14, the post-exposure processing is performed by the transport rollers 12, 14 and the guide roller 40. From the liquid supply opening on the upstream side in the transport direction of the exposure assisting member 16 to the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10, the required amount of the lithographic printing plate 10 is substantially evenly distributed over the entire length in the width direction. Allow the liquid to flow down.

Then, the liquid that has flowed down from the liquid supply opening force of the exposure auxiliary member 16, coupled with the transport operation of the lithographic printing plate 10, the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 and the lower surface of the exposure auxiliary member 16. It is filled with the whole so that air bubbles do not get mixed. In the exposure assisting member 16 provided with a liquid supply unit as an instrument used for subsequent exposure, the liquid supply opening force on the upstream side in the transport direction of the exposure assisting member 16 also causes the liquid to flow down. As a result, the liquid immediately spreads between the lithographic printing plate 10 and the entire lower surface of the exposure assisting member 16 and is quickly filled. Therefore, the liquid can be efficiently filled between the lithographic printing plate 10 and the exposure auxiliary member 16 with a relatively small amount of liquid. The thickness of the liquid layer formed between the lithographic printing plate 10 and the exposure assisting member 16 can be increased relatively easily.

[0219] At this time, the liquid supplied onto the lithographic printing plate 10 is transferred between the transport rollers 12 and 14 on the upstream side in the transport direction from the post-exposure position and the transport rollers 12 and 14 on the downstream side in the transport direction from the post-exposure position. It flows so as to spread between them, and adheres to the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10, and the developer is washed and poured.

[0220] After that, the water washing section 117, which also serves as an exposure processing section, transports the lithographic printing plate 10 by the transport rollers 12 and 14 while the liquid is filled between the exposure auxiliary member 16 and the lithographic printing plate 10. The post-exposure light emitted from the light irradiation unit 20 is subjected to a so-called surface exposure within a predetermined range of the post-exposure position to perform post-exposure processing.

[0221] At this time, the image recording layer of the developed lithographic printing plate 10 is maintained in a state of being covered with a liquid and shielded from oxygen in the air. As a result, in the developed image recording layer, radical polymerization reaction does not occur without being affected by polymerization inhibition by oxygen. Therefore, the entire image recording layer forming the image can be polymerized and cured, and the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate 10 can be improved.

[0222] Further, in the water washing section 117 that also serves as the post-exposure processing section, as described above, the back surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 is washed with the liquid ejected from the liquid shower bar 427.

[0223] The structure, operation, and effects other than those described above in the water washing section 117 that also serves as the post-exposure processing section for the lithographic printing plate shown in FIG. 14 described above are shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 described above. Since it is the same as the water washing part which served as the exposure process part, the description is abbreviate | omitted.

[0224] Next, still another configuration example relating to the water washing section that also serves as the post-exposure processing section will be described with reference to FIG. In the water washing section 117 also serving as the post-exposure processing section shown in FIG. 15, the transport roller 12 closest to the upstream side in the transport direction from the post-exposure position on the transport path supplies the liquid onto the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10. To do. Further, in the water washing section 117 that also serves as the post-exposure processing section shown in FIG. 15, the washing is performed so as to form a liquid layer on the planographic printing plate 10 without using an exposure auxiliary member. Next, post-exposure processing is performed by the light irradiation unit 20.

[0225] For this reason, the liquid flows down from the liquid shower bar 26 on the outer peripheral surface on the downstream side in the transport direction with respect to the vertical line passing through the center of the transport roller 12 in the transport roller 12 closest to the upstream side in the transport direction from the post-exposure position. Let

[0226] Further, in the water washing section 117 that also serves as the post-exposure processing section, the back surface of the planographic printing plate 10 is washed with the liquid ejected from the liquid shower bar 427 as described above.

[0227] The structure, operation, and effects other than those described above in the water washing section 117 that also serves as the post-exposure processing section for the lithographic printing plate shown in FIG. 15 described above are shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 described above. Since it is the same as the water washing part which served as the exposure process part, the description is abbreviate | omitted.

As shown in FIG. 17, in this lithographic printing plate developing apparatus, the lithographic printing plate 10 that has been washed by the water washing section 117 that also serves as the post-exposure processing section and has been subjected to post-exposure processing is carried out to the desensitizing processing section 118. To do.

[0229] The desensitizing treatment section 118 is provided with a conveying roller pair 170 above the desensitizing treatment tank 128, and the lithographic printing plate 10 carried out from the water washing section 117 that also serves as a post-exposure processing section is After being transported through the desensitization processing unit 118 by the transport port roller pair 170, it is sent to the drying unit 120.

[0230] In the desensitization processing unit 118, a spray pipe 172 is provided above the transport path of the planographic printing plate 10. And a spray pipe 174 is provided on the lower side of the conveyance path. The spray pipes 172 and 174 have a longitudinal direction (axial direction) along the width direction of the lithographic printing plate 10 and are arranged above and below the conveyance path of the lithographic printing plate 10. The spray pipes 172 and 174 have a plurality of discharge holes formed along the width direction of the planographic printing plate 10.

[0231] In the desensitizing treatment tank 128, a gum solution used for protecting the plate surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 is stored. This gum solution is supplied to the spray pipes 172 and 174 in synchronization with the transport of the lithographic printing plate 10. The spray pipe 172 drops this gum solution toward the lithographic printing plate 10 and spreads it on the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 and applies it. The spray pipe 174 also discharges the gum solution toward the back surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 through the discharge hole, and applies the gum solution to the back surface of the lithographic printing plate 10.

[0232] In the planographic printing plate 10, a protective film is formed by the gum solution applied to the front and back surfaces. The discharge direction of the gum solution from the spray pipe 172 is not limited to the downstream side in the conveying direction of the lithographic printing plate 10, and may be other directions. In addition, a baffle plate is provided, and the gum solution spouted toward the baffle plate is applied to the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 while being uniformly diffused along the width direction of the lithographic printing plate 10 with the baffle plate. You may do it. Further, instead of the spray pipe 174, a discharge unit or the like for applying the gum solution to the back surface of the planographic printing plate 10 by moving the planographic printing plate 10 in contact with the discharged gum solution may be used.

[0233] Note that the desensitization processing unit 118 is provided with a cleaning spray 176 above the conveying roller pair 170, and a cleaning roller 178 that rotates while contacting the roller above the conveying roller pair 170. . At a predetermined timing set in advance, cleaning water is dropped from the cleaning spray 176 onto the contact position between the cleaning roller 178 and the roller above the conveying roller pair 170 via the current plate 180. As a result, the cleaning water is uniformly diffused to the peripheral surfaces of the rollers above the conveying roller pair 170, and the peripheral surface force of the upper and lower rollers of the conveying roller pair 170 is washed away. This prevents the gum solution from sticking to the peripheral surface of the roller and damaging the planographic printing plate 10.

[0234] The lithographic printing plate 10 to which the gum solution is applied in the desensitization processing unit 118 is sandwiched between the transport roller pair 170, and the gum solution remains slightly on the front and back surfaces (the gum solution remains as a thin film). ) Is sent to the drying section 120.

[0235] The development processing unit 100 includes a partition plate 182 between the desensitizing processing unit 118 and the drying unit 120. Is provided. The partition plate 182 is arranged above the transport path of the lithographic printing plate 10 so as to face the upper end of the processing tank 122, and thereby, a slit is formed between the desensitizing processing unit 118 and the drying unit 120. A shaped punch 184 is formed. The partition plate 182 has a double structure. As a result, a groove-shaped air passage is formed on the drying section 120 side of the punch 184. The air in the drying unit 120 enters the air passage, so that the air in the drying unit 120 is prevented from entering the desensitizing processing unit 118 as well.

[0236] In the drying section 120, a support roller 186 that supports the planographic printing plate 10 is disposed in the vicinity of the insertion port 184, and in the vicinity of the central portion in the transport direction of the planographic printing plate 10 and the discharge port 188. The transport roller pair 190 and the transport roller pair 192 are disposed. The planographic printing plate 10 is conveyed in the drying unit 120 by a support roller 186 and a pair of conveyance rollers 190 and 192.

[0237] Ducts 194 and 196 are arranged between the support roller 186 and the transport roller pair 190, and between the transport roller pair 190 and the transport roller pair 192, with the transport path of the planographic printing plate 10 sandwiched therebetween. It is installed. The ducts 194 and 196 are disposed such that the longitudinal direction thereof extends along the width direction of the planographic printing plate 10, and a slit hole 198 is provided on the surface facing the conveyance path of the planographic printing plate 10.

In the ducts 194 and 196, when dry air generated by a dry air generating unit (not shown) is supplied from one end side in the longitudinal direction, the dry air is supplied from the slit hole 198 to the transport path of the lithographic printing plate 10. Dispense it toward the lithographic printing plate 10. Thereby, in the planographic printing plate 10, the gum solution applied to the front and back surfaces is dried to form a protective film.

In the development processing unit 100, the liquid level cover 101 is disposed in the development tank 124. This prevents deterioration and evaporation of moisture due to the developer in the developing tank 124 coming into contact with carbon dioxide in the air. A blade-shaped shielding member (not shown) formed of silicon rubber or the like is provided between the shielding lid 101 and the processing tank 122 and the conveying roller 148 or the conveying roller pair 152. This prevents the developer in the developer tank 124 from coming into contact with fresh outside air and the water in the developer from evaporating.

Next, the operation and operation of the lithographic printing plate developing apparatus according to the seventh embodiment configured as described above will be described.

[0241] The pre-processing device 200 of the developing device for the lithographic printing plate has the lithographic printing plate 10 on which an image is exposed. When inserted into the preheating unit 204, the transport processing of the planographic printing plate 10 is started. At the same time, the pretreatment apparatus 200 starts an operation of supplying the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 222 to the spray pipes 234 and 236 provided in the pre-water washing section 206.

[0242] Next, the lithographic printing plate 10 in which the insertion locuser is also inserted is drawn into the machine frame and fed into the heating chamber 208. In the preheating unit 204, the planographic printing plate 10 fed into the heating chamber 208 is conveyed while being heated by the heater 214. As a result, the lithographic printing plate 10 is heated at a preset heating temperature and heating time, increasing the degree of polymerization of the photopolymerization layer in the image area and increasing the printing durability, and the pre-washing section 206. Sent out.

[0243] The pre-water washing section 206 feeds the lithographic printing plate 10 obliquely downward while imparting a conveying force to the planographic printing plate 10 by the conveying rollers 224 to 228 arranged in a staggered manner. As a result, the planographic printing plate 10 is fed between the brush roller 230 and the backup roller 232.

[0244] Further, in the pre-water washing section 206, washing water is ejected from the spray pipe 236. The cleaning water is supplied to the brush roller 230 and the cleaning water is ejected from the spray pipe 234.

Accordingly, the lithographic printing plate 10 is fed between the brush roller 230 and the backup roller 23 2 when the force between the conveyance rollers 226 and 228 is also conveyed between the brush roller 230 and the backup roller 232. Brushing is performed by the brush roller 230.

[0246] Note that the lithographic printing plate 10 is supplied with cleaning water on its surface, so that the uppermost overcoat layer is easily swelled and peeled off. In addition, the overcoat layer is more easily peeled off due to the longer time it is immersed in the wash water.

The lithographic printing plate 10 that has been brushed in this manner and from which the overcoat layer has been removed is sandwiched between the conveying roller pair 142 of the development processing unit 100 and is transferred from the preprocessing unit 200 to the development processing unit 100. Sent out.

[0248] In the development processing unit 100, when the planographic printing plate 10 that has been subjected to exposure processing by an image exposure device (not shown) to form a latent image is inserted from the insertion port 132, the conveyance roller pair 142 is driven to rotate. . As a result, the lithographic printing plate 10 is sandwiched by the conveying roller pair 142 and drawn into the automatic developing device.

[0249] In the automatic developing device including the development processing unit 100, a sensor for detecting the lithographic printing plate 10 passing through the insertion port 132 is provided in the vicinity of the insertion port 132. This sensor is the planographic printing plate 10 When the insertion is detected, rotation driving of the conveyance roller pair 142 and the like is started. At the timing based on the detection of the lithographic printing plate 10 by this sensor, the spray pipes 26 and 427 of the washing unit 117 discharge the rinsing water with high power and the discharge of the game liquid from the spray pipes 172 and 174 of the desensitizing treatment unit 118. Control to do. In this automatic developing apparatus, the control for turning on or off the LED 20A is performed at a predetermined timing based on the detection of the planographic printing plate 10 by the sensor, and the plate edge detection sensor 21 shown in FIG. 13 is omitted. Also good.

[0250] The transport roller pair 142 feeds the lithographic printing plate 10 drawn from the insertion port 132 to the developing tank 124 at an insertion angle of 15 ° to 31 ° with respect to the horizontal direction. As a result, the lithographic printing plate 10 is conveyed through the developing tank 124 by the conveying roller 148 and the conveying roller pairs 150 and 152 while being guided by the guide plate 116, and is immersed in the developer stored in the developing tank 124. , And sent out from the developer at a discharge angle in the range of 17 ° to 31 °.

[0251] The lithographic printing plate 10 is immersed in a developing solution in the developing tank 124, whereby the portion of the image recording layer that has not been exposed is also removed from the support strength. At this time, in the automatic developing apparatus, the surface of the planographic printing plate 10 (the surface on the image recording layer side) is brushed by the brush rollers 141 and 143 which are arranged in the developing tank 124. As a result, removal of an unnecessary image recording layer having a surface force of the lithographic printing plate 10 is promoted.

[0252] The lithographic printing plate 10 sent out from the developing tank 124 after finishing the development processing is sent to the water washing section 117 which also serves as a post-exposure processing section by the conveying roller pair 152. At this time, the conveying roller pair 152 squeezes out the developer adhering to the front and back surfaces of the planographic printing plate 10.

[0253] In the water washing section 117, which also serves as a post-exposure processing section, the lithographic printing plate 10 is sandwiched between transport rollers 12 and 14 and transported in a substantially horizontal direction while the liquid shower bar 26 and the liquid shower bar 427 are used. Wash out the developer remaining on the front and back surfaces of the lithographic printing plate 10 by jetting flush water.

[0254] At the same time, the water washing unit 117, which also serves as a post-exposure processing unit, performs post-exposure by turning on the LED 20A with the water sprayed from the liquid shower bar 26 covering the entire surface of the image recording layer. Process. After drying in the dryer 39, the lithographic printing plate 10 is sent to the desensitizing treatment section 11 8.

[0255] The lithographic printing plate 10 sent to the desensitization processing section 118 passes between the spray pipes 172 and 174. Passed and sandwiched between the transport roller pair 170, and sent out from the desensitizing processing unit 118 by the transport roller pair 170.

[0256] At this time, the desensitization processing unit 118 also discharges the gum solution with spray pipes 172 and 174, and uniformly applies the gum solution to the front and back surfaces of the lithographic printing plate 10 while diffusing. The conveying roller pair 170 pinches and conveys the lithographic printing plate 10 to squeeze out the excess gum solution from the front and back surfaces of the lithographic printing plate 10. As a result, a uniform thin film of gum solution is formed on the front and back surfaces of the lithographic printing plate 10.

[0257] The planographic printing plate 10 to which the gum solution is applied is fed from the insertion port 184 to the drying unit 120 by the conveying roller pair 170. When a shredder is provided on the Unicom 184, the shatter is operated at the timing when the processing of the planographic printing plate 10 is started or when the planographic printing plate 10 is sent out from the desensitizing processing unit 118. Open through 184. This prevents the drying air from the drying section 120 from unnecessarily entering the desensitizing processing section 118 when the lithographic printing plate 10 does not pass and the gum solution sticking to the conveying roller pair 170. ing. Through-hole 184 force prevents air from entering and reaching the development section 114 to prevent deterioration of the developer by carbon dioxide in the air. Prevent the moisture in the developer, rinse water, and the water in the gum solution from evaporating and exiting from the pier 184.

In the drying unit 120, drying air is blown from the ducts 194, 196 to the front and back surfaces of the lithographic printing plate 10 while the lithographic printing plate 10 is conveyed by the support roller 186 and the conveying roller pair 190, 192. As a result, the lithographic printing plate 10 has a protective film formed by the gum solution applied to the surface. It is discharged from the outlet 188.

Next, a lithographic printing plate developing method and apparatus according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described mainly with reference to FIGS. The lithographic printing plate developing apparatus according to the present embodiment includes a pre-processing unit 200 (see FIG. 16) and a developing processing unit 100 shown in FIG.

[0260] The development processing unit 100 includes a development unit 114 for processing the planographic printing plate 10 with a developer, a water washing unit 617, and a protective layer forming step (desensitization processing step). The rinsing section 617 supplies rinsing water to the lithographic printing plate 10 that has been treated with the developer, and performs rinsing with water. The protective layer forming step also serves as a post-exposure processing section that performs post-exposure processing while applying a gum solution to the developed surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 to protect the hydrophilic layer and then drying it. That is, in the development processing unit 100, a development process, a washing process, a protective layer formation, and a post-exposure processing process are sequentially arranged along the transport direction of the planographic printing plate 10 (the direction of arrow A in the figure).

[0262] A processing tank 122 is provided in the development processing unit 100. The processing tank 122 includes a developing tank 124 as a processing tank at a position to be the developing section 114, a tray member 628 at a position to be the water washing section 617, a protective layer forming and post-exposure processing section (a desensitizing processing section and a post-exposure section). Treatment) A desensitizing treatment tank 528 is formed at a position to be 61.8. Further, the processing tank 122 is provided with a space for the insertion section 134 on the upstream side of the developing tank 124 (upstream side in the transport direction of the planographic printing plate 10), and the drying section 120 on the downstream side of the desensitizing processing tank 528. A space is formed.

[0263] The rinsing section 617 of the lithographic printing plate 10 has an image made visible while the lithographic printing plate 10 is conveyed in a substantially horizontal conveyance path in the atmosphere by the conveying rollers 672 and 674 which are a pair of up rollers. For the lithographic printing plate 10, wash water is sprayed onto the entire front and back surfaces of the lithographic printing plate 10 to wash away the developer.

[0264] In this water washing section 617, a liquid shower bar 670 for injecting a cleaning liquid (here, water that serves as both a liquid for cleaning the developer and a liquid for blocking oxygen) from each nozzle is installed above the conveyance path. . The liquid sprayed from the liquid shower bar 670 and supplied onto the lithographic printing plate 10 spreads over the entire surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 and is squeezed down by the conveying rollers 672 and 674 on the downstream side in the conveying direction. Become.

[0265] Since the tray member 628 receives the liquid in which the upper force of the planographic printing plate 10 is squeezed out or the both side forces of the planographic printing plate 10 are spilled, the tray member 628 is installed. The tray member 628 is disposed below the transport path so as to cover a slightly larger range including a predetermined range in which two pairs of transport rollers 672 and 674 that sandwich the exposure position are disposed.

[0266] Further, in this water washing section 617, a liquid shower bar 671 is installed below the conveyance path, and a cleaning liquid is sprayed from the nozzle holes of the liquid shower bar 671 to develop from the back surface of the lithographic printing plate 10. Wash off the liquid. The washing unit 617 is configured such that the cleaning solution used to wash away the developer flows into the tray member 628. Although not shown, a liquid circulation line provided with a filter, a pump, and a heater is installed between the tray member 628 and the liquid shower bars 670 and 671. [0267] In the washing section 617 as described above, the planographic printing plate 10 from which the developer such as alkali has been washed from the image recording layer in which the image has been made visible is transported on the transport path to form a protective layer. It is sent to a post-exposure processing unit 618.

[0268] As described above, the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 is exposed to light and polymerized by radical photopolymerization to form a latent image. An image is obtained by removing the unexposed portion of the image recording layer in which the latent image is formed by the brush roller in a state where the lithographic printing plate is immersed in an alkaline developer and leaving only the exposed image recording layer portion. Realize. The lithographic printing plate 10 is washed with a developing solution such as alkali in the water washing section 617. The protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit 618 performs post-exposure processing on the planographic printing plate 10 during the processing for forming the protective layer.

In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618, as a process for forming the protective layer, the gum solution is applied to the entire surface of the image recording layer where the image has been made visible, and the gum solution is then dried. Form a protective layer.

[0270] At the same time, in the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618, the components including the solvent of the gum solution until the gum solution is dried until the gum solution is applied in the protective layer formation process. Use the blocking function to prevent oxygen in the air from entering the image recording layer. As a result, a post-exposure process is performed in which the entire surface is exposed with a small amount of light.

The reason why the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618 performs post-exposure processing is to improve printing durability. That is, the lithographic printing plate 10 is developed after the exposure process, so that only the polymerized portion of the image recording layer remains on the aluminum support to form an image. At this time, in the lithographic printing plate 10 after the development treatment, the portion of the image recording layer remaining so as to form an image on the aluminum support is not necessarily sufficiently polymerized, and the portion of the image recording layer Some parts of the aluminum support on the side of the polymer support may remain!

[0272] Therefore, the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618 uniformly exposes the entire surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 with light having the wavelength of the photosensitive region of the image recording layer by post-exposure processing. As a result, the portion of the image recording layer remaining so as to form an image on the aluminum support is fully polymerized and cured to improve the printing durability. be able to.

As shown in FIG. 18 and FIG. 19, the protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit 618 is a planographic printing in which an image conveyed on a substantially horizontal conveyance path for carrying in the atmosphere is exposed and washed with water. Gum liquid is sprayed on the entire surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 on the front and back sides of the plate 10 to form a film of gum liquid with a predetermined thickness, and the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 is covered with the gum liquid film. Post-exposure processing is performed in the blocked state. In this way, the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate 10 is improved. Protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618 combines a configuration in which a protective layer is formed on the lithographic printing plate 10 and a configuration in which the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 is covered with a gum solution to be in an oxygen-blocking state. Simplify the configuration by reducing the number of points.

[0274] In the protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit 618 shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the post-exposure processing is performed on the transport path for transporting the lithographic printing plate 10 in the atmosphere. For this reason, a pair of transport rollers 512 and 514 are arranged at predetermined positions before and after the post-exposure position.

[0275] Each transport roller 512, 514 is rotationally driven by a motor or the like as a drive source (not shown) while the planographic printing plate 10 is sandwiched between the transport rollers 512, 514. By doing so, the planographic printing plate 10 is conveyed. The transport rollers 512 and 514 may both be free rollers. Alternatively, only the roller that is in rolling contact with the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 is used as a free roller, and in addition to this, a -p roller that is rotated by a drive source for transporting the lithographic printing plate 10 is mounted. May be.

[0276] The post-exposure position set between the two pairs of transport rollers 512 and 514 has a predetermined distance from the surface on the image recording layer side of the transported lithographic printing plate 10 (here, approximately lmm force) An exposure assisting member 516 configured as a transparent member for configuring the light irradiation unit 520 is disposed at a position set to 3 mm). Here, as a result of the actual experiment, when the gum solution was supplied onto the lithographic printing plate 10 by the liquid shower bar 526, which is a gum solution supply unit, as will be described later, the surface tension of the gum solution with high viscosity caused the action. It was confirmed that a layer of gum solution having a thickness of approximately 1 mm to approximately 3 mm spread on the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 on the average until reaching the end of the lithographic printing plate 10.

Therefore, in this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618, the planographic printing plate 10 and the light irradiation module are used. G is set so that only the gum solution layer is formed between the exposure auxiliary member 516 and the bottom surface of the exposure auxiliary member 516, and no air enters. For this reason, when the gum solution is supplied from the liquid shaver 526 which is a gum solution supply unit so that a gum solution layer is formed on the planographic printing plate 10, the thickness of the gum solution layer is equal to the distance. Or shorter than this! The distance between the planographic printing plate 10 and the bottom surface of the exposure auxiliary member 516 is set so as to be the distance.

[0278] This exposure assisting member 516 is formed by forming a transparent glass or plastic material into a rectangular plate (rectangular shape), with the incident surface and the exit surface (bottom surface) of the laser beam being flat. is there. Note that the exposure assisting member 516 may be configured to have a function as a lens.

[0279] In the light irradiation unit 520 of the protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit 618, the exposure assisting member 516 configured as described above is used. As a result, even if the viscosity of the lithographic printing plate 10 is relatively high and the surface of the gum solution layer is uneven, the surface of the gum solution layer is covered with the exposure assisting member 516 so that the gum solution The surface of the layer can be planarized. Further, since the surface of the exposure assisting member 516 is a flat surface, the light incident on this surface is irradiated on the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 on average so that partial deviation of the light amount does not occur. A good post-exposure treatment can be performed.

Further, as shown in FIG. 18, a guide roller 540 (slidably contacting the lower surface of the lithographic printing plate 10) is placed on the lower side (back side) of the lithographic printing plate 10 that is conveyed immediately below the exposure assisting member 516. A guide member may be used instead). The guide roller 540 prevents the vibration of the lithographic printing plate 10 from being hit by the gum solution sprayed from the nozzle by rolling and supporting the back surface of the lithographic printing plate 10. When this guide roller 540 is disposed, post-exposure processing is performed in a state where vibrations are suppressed in the planographic printing plate 10 when receiving the gum solution sprayed from the nozzle of the liquid shower bar 526. Can do.

In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618, a post-exposure light irradiation unit 520 is provided for post-exposure processing via the exposure auxiliary member 516. The light irradiation unit 520 is a light source configured by, for example, collecting a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs, here, ultraviolet LEDs that emit ultraviolet rays) 520A so as to be arranged at a high density such as a staggered pattern. It consists of a certain LED array light source. Multiple light-emitting diodes 520A Emits light with a wavelength for photosensitivity suitable for causing radical photopolymerization reaction in the image recording layer (light having a predetermined wavelength such as infrared ray, visible ray or ultraviolet ray).

In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618, each LED 520A for constituting the light irradiation unit 520 is embedded in the upper surface portion of the exposure assisting member 516 as shown in FIGS. Install. The LED array light source provided with a plurality of LEDs 520A may be configured separately from the exposure assisting member 516. In addition, using LED520A can dramatically extend the service life compared to other light sources.

[0283] Note that the light irradiation unit 520 may be composed of an EL (Electro Luminescence) element that is a surface light source that emits light having a photosensitive wavelength.

[0284] In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618, a liquid shower bar 526 as a gum solution supply unit is installed above the conveyance path. The liquid shower bar 526 is a lithographic printing plate at a predetermined position between the exposure assisting member 516 and the transport rollers 512 and 514 disposed on the upstream side in the transport direction in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction. The gum solution is arranged so as to be sprayed corresponding to the entire range of the 10 width directions.

[0285] The liquid shower bar 526 is formed in, for example, a cylindrical shape, and a large number of nozzle holes are arranged in a row at equal intervals on the peripheral side surface of the lithographic printing plate 10. The gum solution supplied to each is sprayed from each nozzle cover to form a substantially uniform thin layer of gum solution on the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10.

That is, the gum solution sprayed from the liquid shower bar 526 and supplied onto the lithographic printing plate 10 spreads over the entire surface of the lithographic printing plate 10, and the excess force also flows down the edge force. As a result, a substantially uniform thin film-like gum solution layer is formed by the viscosity and surface tension of the gum solution.

[0287] The substantially uniform thin-film gum solution layer made of the gum solution supplied onto the lithographic printing plate 10 in this way is transported together with the lithographic printing plate 10 to the position of the exposure auxiliary member 516, It penetrates so that the space between the exposure aid member 516 and the planographic printing plate 10 is satisfied. The gum solution layer is fully filled without leaving air bubbles in the gap between the exposure aid 516 and the lithographic printing plate 10, and the oxygen-blocking for post-exposure processing is performed by the action of the components containing the gum solution solvent. Create a state.

[0288] The gum solution used here is capable of transmitting a light beam for post-exposing the planographic printing plate 10. Use the ability. For example, the product name “PS—PLATE FINISHING GUM” product number “FP-2W” manufactured by Fuji Film Co., Ltd. can be used as the gum solution used here.

[0289] The substantially uniform thin-film gum solution layer formed on the lithographic printing plate 10 is transported together with the lithographic printing plate 10 to leave the position of the exposure auxiliary member 516, and is transported downstream in the transport direction. The rollers 512 and 514 are squeezed down to leave a predetermined amount of thin film.

[0290] In this way, the upper force of the lithographic printing plate 10 is either squeezed out or the both side forces of the lithographic printing plate 10 are spilled, so that two sets of conveying rollers 512, 5 sandwich the exposure position below the conveying path. A desensitizing treatment tank 528 that covers a slightly larger range including a predetermined range where 14 is disposed is installed.

In addition, a liquid circulation line 30 is installed between the desensitizing treatment tank 528 and the liquid shower bar 526. Between the liquid member bar 526 and the pipe member 32 constituting the series of liquid circulation pipes 30, a filter 34 and a pump 36, and a heater 538 as necessary are arranged.

[0292] In this liquid circulation line 30, the gum solution introduced into the liquid collecting loca that is opened at the bottom of the desensitizing treatment tank 528 is sent to the filter 34 through the pipe member 32 and filtered, and the force is also sent to the pump 36.

[0293] The pump 36 pressurizes the gum solution sucked from the filter 34 side, sends it to the heater 38 as necessary, heats it to a predetermined temperature, supplies it to the liquid shower bar 526, and from its nozzle Inject at a predetermined flow rate. The new gum solution supplied to the liquid shower bar 526 through this liquid circulation line 30 is supplied to the desensitizing treatment tank 528 by a supply unit (not shown) according to the processing amount of the planographic printing plate 10. .

Next, the lithographic printing plate post-exposure operation in the lithographic printing plate protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit 618 shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 configured as described above will be described.

In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618, the lithographic printing plate 10 after the development process and the water washing process is transported on the transport path and carried into the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618. The transported lithographic printing plate 10 is sandwiched and transported between a pair of transport rollers 512 and 514 arranged on the upstream side of the transport path. As a result, the gum solution sprayed from the nozzle under the liquid shower bar 526 is supplied onto the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10, and the gum liquid is applied to the surface of the lithographic printing plate 10. A liquid film is formed.

This lithographic printing plate 10 is further conveyed and reaches a post-exposure position below the exposure auxiliary member 516. At this time, the LED 520A, which is the light irradiation unit 520, is turned on by the lighting control unit. Further, the gum solution layer on the lithographic printing plate 10 is pushed to the exposure auxiliary member 516. The gap liquid between the lithographic printing plate 10 and the exposure assisting member 516 is filled with the gum solution, and no air bubbles are present.

In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618, an LED array light source composed of a plurality of LEDs 520A arranged in a staggered grid pattern is conveyed while the planographic printing plate 10 is conveyed. A predetermined range having a predetermined length in the conveying direction over the entire width in the width direction is exposed in a so-called surface exposure state. As a result, the entire image recording layer of the planographic printing plate 10 is subjected to an average post-exposure treatment.

In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618, while the planographic printing plate 10 is transported from the post-exposure position where the exposure auxiliary member 516 is located to the positions of the transport rollers 512 and 514 on the downstream side in the transport direction, the planographic plate 10 The image recording layer of the plate 10 is covered with the gum solution and kept in the state of being blocked from oxygen in the air. As a result, in the image recording layer, the radical polymerization reaction proceeds with a small amount of exposure without being affected by the inhibition of polymerization by oxygen, and a sufficient reaction is realized to form an image! / The whole is polymerized and cured, and sufficient printing durability of the planographic printing plate 10 can be secured.

[0299] Further, when post-exposure processing is performed on the lithographic printing plate 10 in this way, the modulated laser light is projected onto the original plate of the lithographic printing plate 10 to image the image recording layer of the original plate of the lithographic printing plate 10 When performing a laser exposure process in which a latent image is formed by directly recording an image, the amount of exposure for forming the latent image can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to form an image with a low output of laser light as recording light.

[0300] In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618, the LED 52 OA that has been lit for the post-exposure processing is controlled by the light source lighting control circuit 23 so that the plate edge detection sensor 21 is moved in the transport direction of the planographic printing plate 10 When the edge is detected, it is measured with a force timer and turned off when the specified standby time for turning off has elapsed.

[0301] As described above, the lithographic printing plate 1 is post-exposed at the post-exposure position with the exposure assisting member 516. 0 is squeezed by the transport rollers 512 and 514 so that a predetermined amount of gum solution film remains on the surface, and is transported to the drying unit 120 on the downstream side in the transport direction.

[0302] In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618, the gum solution is circulated and used while removing dust mixed in the solution using the filter 34 and the pump 36 of the liquid circulation system. In this protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit 618, the gum solution from which dust has been removed by passing through the filter 34 of the liquid circulation system is supplied to the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10. Thereby, it can prevent that the part which is not post-exposed by the dust which floats in a gum solution generate | occur | produces.

[0303] In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618, light for post-exposure is applied to the lithographic printing plate 10 that is transported on the transport path transporting in the air with the image recording layer facing upward. Post-exposure processing can be performed by irradiating from above. The LED array light source is arranged at a position higher than the liquid on the planographic printing plate 10 and the liquid shower bar 526 that allows the liquid to flow down. The LED array light source can be prevented from getting wet with the gum solution even if the gum solution is splashed or the gum solution leaks.

Further, in the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618 shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the discharge hole of the spray pipe (not shown) also discharges the gum solution toward the back surface of the lithographic printing plate 10, A gum solution may be applied to the back of the lithographic printing plate 10. In addition, although not shown in the figure, instead of spray nove, a discharge unit or the like that applies the gum solution to the back surface of the planographic printing plate 10 by moving the planographic printing plate 10 while contacting the discharged gum solution may be used.

In this protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit 618, although not shown, cleaning water such as a cleaning spray is dropped onto the cleaning roller that is in contact with the transport roller 512 at a predetermined timing. As a result, the cleaning water is uniformly diffused to the peripheral surface of the transport roller 512, and the peripheral force of the transport rollers 512 and 514 is also washed away. This prevents the gum solution from adhering to the peripheral surfaces of the transport rollers 512 and 514 and damaging the planographic printing plate 10.

[0306] Next, another example of the configuration relating to the formation of the protective layer and the post-exposure processing unit 618 provided with the exposure tool for the lithographic printing plate used in the developing device for the lithographic printing plate will be described mainly with reference to FIG. The In the lithographic printing plate protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit 618 shown in FIG. 20, a unit for supplying the gum solution onto the lithographic printing plate 10 is integrally formed with respect to the exposure assisting member 516. The configuration of the exposure assisting member 516 is the same as that of the second embodiment (FIGS. 4 and 5). reference).

[0307] After that, the exposure auxiliary member 516, which is an instrument used for exposure, transfers the gam liquid supplied from the pipe member 32 onto the planographic printing plate 10 through the liquid supply groove 17A of the liquid supply path through the liquid supply opening. Let the required amount flow down.

In the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618 shown in FIG. 20, when performing the post-exposure processing, the image recording of the lithographic printing plate 10 transported by the transport rollers 512 and 514 and the guide roller 540 is performed. From the liquid supply opening on the upstream side in the transport direction of the exposure assisting member 516, a required amount of gum solution is caused to flow substantially uniformly over the entire length in the width direction of the planographic printing plate 10.

[0309] Then, the gum solution in which the opening force for supplying the liquid of the exposure assisting member 516 also flows down is coupled with the transport operation of the planographic printing plate 10, and the entire image recording layer of the planographic printing plate 10 and the entire lower surface of the exposure assisting member 516. And filled so that air bubbles do not enter. In the exposure assisting member 516 provided with a liquid supply unit as a tool used for subsequent exposure, the liquid supply opening force gum solution on the upstream side in the transport direction of the exposure assisting member 516 flows down. As a result, the gam liquid immediately spreads between the lithographic printing plate 10 and the entire lower surface of the exposure auxiliary member 516 and quickly fills. Therefore, the gum solution can be efficiently filled between the lithographic printing plate 10 and the exposure auxiliary member 516 with a relatively small amount of the gum solution. The thickness of the gum solution layer formed between the lithographic printing plate 10 and the exposure assisting member 516 can be increased relatively easily.

[0310] At this time, the gum solution supplied onto the lithographic printing plate 10 includes transport rollers 512, 514 upstream of the post-exposure position in the transport direction, and transport rollers 512, 514 downstream of the post-exposure position in the transport direction. It flows so as to spread between the two layers to form a layer of gum solution.

[0311] In this lithographic printing plate protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618, the lithographic printing plate is conveyed by conveying rollers 512 and 514 in a state in which the gum solution is filled between the exposure auxiliary member 516 and the lithographic printing plate 10. While carrying 10, the post-exposure light emitted from the light irradiation unit 520 is subjected to post-exposure processing by exposing the light for surface exposure within a predetermined range of the post-exposure position.

[0312] At this time, the image recording layer of the developed lithographic printing plate 10 is maintained in a state of being covered with the gum solution and shielded from oxygen in the air. As a result, in the developed image recording layer, radical polymerization reaction does not occur without being affected by polymerization inhibition by oxygen. Thus, the entire image recording layer forming the image can be polymerized and cured, and the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate 10 can be improved.

[0313] The configuration, operation, and effects of the lithographic printing plate protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit 618 shown in Fig. 20 described above other than those described above are the same as those shown in Figs. 18 and 19 described above. Since it is the same as the layer formation and post-exposure processing section, the description thereof is omitted.

[0314] Next, another structural example relating to the protective layer formation and the post-exposure processing section will be described with reference to FIG. In the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618 shown in FIG. 21, the transport roller 512 closest to the upstream side in the transport direction with respect to the post-exposure position on the transport path causes the gum solution to flow on the image recording layer of the planographic printing plate 10. To supply. Further, in the protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit 618 shown in FIG. 21, the light irradiation unit is directly connected without the exposure auxiliary member in a state where the gum solution layer is formed on the planographic printing plate 10. At 520, post-exposure processing is performed.

[0315] The gum solution flows down from the liquid shower bar 526 on the outer peripheral surface on the downstream side in the transport direction from the vertical line passing through the center of the transport roller 512 in the transport roller 512 closest to the upstream side in the transport direction from the post-exposure position. Let

[0316] Further, the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618 guides the gum solution to flow on the average along the outer peripheral surface of the transport roller 512 closest to the upstream side in the transport direction from the post-exposure position. A flow guide member 15 is installed.

[0317] In the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618 shown in FIG. 21, the gum solution flowing down from the liquid shower bar 526 is received by the introduction guide unit 15B and the auxiliary flow-down guide member 19, and the outer peripheral surface of the transport roller 512 is It is introduced between the arcuate guide portion 15 A and flows between these along the outer peripheral surface of the conveying roller 5 12 and is guided onto the planographic printing plate 10.

[0318] The gum solution thus guided onto the lithographic printing plate 10 is guided by the discharge guide portion 15C and supplied on the entire surface of the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10, and is conveyed from the post-exposure position. It flows so as to spread between the transport rollers 512 and 514 disposed on the upstream side in the direction and the downstream side in the transport direction, and a state of forming a gum solution layer is formed by the surface tension.

[0319] Further, in the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618, as shown in FIG. 23, the vertical passing through the center of the transport roller 512 in the nearest transport roller 512 on the upstream side in the transport direction from the post-exposure position. The gum solution is allowed to flow from the liquid shower bar 526 on the outer peripheral surface upstream of the wire in the transport direction. You may make it lower.

[0320] In this case, guide the gum solution so that the gum solution flows on the upstream side in the transport direction from the post-exposure position along the outer peripheral surface of the nearest transport roller 512 facing the upstream side in the transport direction. Install the flow guide member 529.

[0321] In the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618 provided with the flow-down guide member 529 shown in FIG. 23, the viscous liquid flowing down from the liquid shower bar 526 is introduced to the outer peripheral surface of the introduction guide unit 529B and the conveying roller 512. Between the outer peripheral surface of the conveying roller 512 and the arcuate guide portion 529A, and the conveying roller 512 conveys the planographic printing plate 10. Therefore, when the conveying roller 512 rotates in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 23, the gum solution is carried so as to rotate integrally with the outer peripheral surface of the conveying roller 512 due to the viscosity of the gum solution. Led to

[0322] The gum solution guided onto the lithographic printing plate 10 in this way is averagely spread over the entire surface of the image recording layer when the conveying roller 512 rolls on the lithographic printing plate 10, and from the post-exposure position. Conveying method A gum solution layer is formed which spreads between the conveying rollers 512 and 514 respectively arranged on the improved flow side and the downstream side in the conveying direction.

In the case of the configuration as described above, as shown in FIG. 21, the transport roller 512 disposed immediately upstream of the post-exposure position in the transport direction, and the closest downstream of the post-exposure position in the transport direction. It is not necessary to provide a space for allowing the gum solution to flow down from the liquid shower bar 526 between the transport rollers 512 arranged. As a result, the conveyance roller 512 disposed immediately upstream of the post-exposure position in the conveyance direction and the conveyance roller 512 disposed closest to the downstream of the post-exposure position in the conveyance direction can be disposed close to each other. . Therefore, the lithographic printing plate developing device including the protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit 618 can be downsized.

[0324] Further, in this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618, an LED array light source provided with a plurality of LED 520A as the light irradiation unit 520 is disposed above the post-exposure position. The post-exposure light is irradiated to the developed image recording layer of the planographic printing plate 10 through the blocking layer.

[0325] In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618, even if some unevenness is generated on the surface of the oxygen blocking gum solution layer formed on the developed image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 , L There is no problem in performing post-exposure processing by irradiating light from ED520A. This is different from the case where the recording laser beam is focused on the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10, and light having a predetermined wavelength for post-exposure is applied to the developed image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10. Since it is only necessary to generate a radical polymerization reaction by irradiation, the unevenness formed on the surface of the oxygen blocking gum liquid layer affects the generation of the radical polymerization reaction even if the light for post-exposure is scattered. This is because there is no such thing.

In the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618 shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 described above, the exposure assisting member 516 is omitted and the lithographic printing plate is passed from the LED 520A through the oxygen blocking gum solution layer. It may be configured to irradiate the post-exposure light to the ten image-processed image recording layers.

[0327] Sarakuko, in the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618 provided with the flow-down guide member 15 shown in FIG. 21, the gum solution flowed down from the liquid shower bar 526 to the transport roller 512. The flow guide member 15 can prevent the gum solution from splashing and adhering to the LED 520A as the light irradiation unit 520.

It should be noted that the configuration, operation, and effects of the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618 other than those described above in FIG. 21 (the same as the configuration shown in FIG. 23) are the same as those shown in FIG. Since it is the same as the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618 shown in FIG. 19, its description is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 22, in this lithographic printing plate developing device, the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618 applies a gum solution to the front and back surfaces of the lithographic printing plate 10 to The gum solution is sent to the drying section 120 with a predetermined amount of gum solution remaining (a state in which the gum solution remains as a thin film).

In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618, a partition plate 182 is provided between the portion provided with the desensitizing treatment tank 528 for applying the gum solution and the drying unit 120. This partition plate 182 is arranged above the conveying path of the lithographic printing plate 10 so as to face the upper end of the processing tank 122, and thereby, a desensitizing processing tank 528 for applying a gum solution. A slit-shaped through hole 184 is formed between the portion provided with the slab and the drying unit 120. The cutting plate 182 has a double structure, whereby a groove-like air passage is formed on the side of the drying section 184 on the drying section 120 side. As air in the drying section 120 enters the air passage, Thus, the air in the drying unit 120 is prevented from entering the portion provided with the desensitizing treatment tank 528 for applying the gum solution from the insertion port 184.

[0331] In the drying section 120, a support roller 186 that supports the planographic printing plate 10 is disposed in the vicinity of the insertion port 184, and the central portion in the transport direction of the planographic printing plate 10 and the discharge port 188 In the vicinity, a conveying roller pair 190 and a conveying roller pair 192 are disposed. The lithographic printing plate 10 is transported in the drying section 120 by a support port roller 186 and a pair of transport rollers 190 and 192.

[0332] Ducts 194 and 196 are arranged between the support roller 186 and the transport roller pair 190, and between the transport roller pair 190 and the transport roller pair 192, with the transport path of the planographic printing plate 10 interposed therebetween. It is installed. The ducts 194 and 196 are disposed such that the longitudinal direction thereof extends along the width direction of the planographic printing plate 10, and a slit hole 198 is provided on the surface facing the conveyance path of the planographic printing plate 10.

Ducts 194 and 196 are supplied with dry air generated by a dry air generating unit (not shown) from one end side in the longitudinal direction, and this dry air is sent from the slit hole 198 to the transport path of the lithographic printing plate 10. Dispense it toward the lithographic printing plate 10. Thereby, in the planographic printing plate 10, the gum solution applied to the front and back surfaces is dried to form a protective film.

[0334] In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618, post-exposure processing is performed between applying the gum solution to the developed surface of the lithographic printing plate 10 to protect the hydrophilic layer and finishing drying. Then, it is carried out in such a state that oxygen in the air is blocked by the component containing the solvent of the game liquid so that the oxygen in the air does not enter the image recording layer.

[0335] Therefore, in the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618, the post-exposure processing is performed in the drying unit 120, and the post-exposure processing is performed in the portion provided with the desensitizing treatment tank 528 for applying the gum solution. Don't do it, you can configure it like this.

As shown in FIG. 24, in this case, a light irradiation unit for post-exposure is provided in the duct 194 on the upstream side in the transport direction in the drying unit 120. This light irradiation unit is composed of, for example, a light guide 195 disposed in a portion of the duct 194 where the slit hole 198 is provided, and a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs, here, ultraviolet LEDs that emit ultraviolet rays) 520A. It consists of an LED array light source that is a light source. The plurality of light emitting diodes 520A are light having a wavelength for photosensitive use (light having a predetermined wavelength such as infrared light, visible light, or ultraviolet light) suitable for causing radical photopolymerization reaction in the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10. ). [0337] The light guide 195 has the exit end facing the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate 10 conveyed near the slit hole 198, and the entrance end is heated by hot air jetted from the slit hole 198. Arrange them so that they reach a position where is not possible. Further, an LED array light source composed of a light emitting diode 520A is disposed at the incident end of the light guide 195.

[0338] With this configuration, it is possible to prevent deterioration due to hot air injected from the slit hole 198 force of the light emitting diode 520A force S duct 194.

Next, the operation and operation of the lithographic printing plate developing apparatus according to this embodiment configured as described above will be described. Note that a description of the same configurations as those in the seventh embodiment will be omitted.

The lithographic printing plate 10 sent from the developing tank 124 after finishing the development process is sent to the water washing section 617 by the transport roller pair 152. At this time, the transport roller pair 152 adheres to the front and back surfaces of the planographic printing plate 10! / Squeeze off the developing solution.

[0341] The rinsing section 617 ejects rinsing water from the liquid shower bar 670 and the liquid shower bar 671 while holding the lithographic printing plate 10 between the conveying rollers 672 and 674 and conveying it in a substantially horizontal direction. The developer remaining on the front and back surfaces of the printing plate 10 is washed away and dried with a drier (not shown), and then the lithographic printing plate 10 is sent to the protective layer forming and post-exposure processing section 618.

[0342] The lithographic printing plate 10 sent to the protective layer forming and post-exposure processing unit 618 is nipped by the conveyance rollers 512 and 514 and is brought into rolling contact with each other, so that it is conveyed on the conveyance path and sent to the drying unit 120. It is.

[0343] At this time, in the protective layer formation and post-exposure processing unit 618, the liquid such as the liquid shower bar 526 also discharges the gum solution to uniformly apply the gum solution to the front and back surfaces of the lithographic printing plate 10. The conveying rollers 512 and 514 sandwich and convey the lithographic printing plate 10 and squeeze out the excess gum solution on the front and back surfaces of the lithographic printing plate 10, so that the gum solution is uniformly distributed on the front and back surfaces of the lithographic printing plate 10. A thin film is formed.

[0344] The lithographic printing plate 10 to which the gum solution has been applied is also fed into the drying section 120 from the through-hole 184 by the conveying rollers 512 and 514. In addition, when a shirt is provided in the Unicom 184, the processing start timing of the lithographic printing plate 10 or the lithographic printing plate 10 is sent out from the portion where the desensitizing tank 528 for applying the gum solution is provided. At the timing, activate the shirt , Open Unicom 184. As a result, when the lithographic printing plate 10 does not pass, the drying air of the drying unit 120 enters the portion provided with the desensitizing treatment tank 528 for applying the gum solution unnecessarily, and the transfer rollers 512 and 514 receive the gum. Prevents the liquid from sticking. Prevents the developer from deteriorating due to carbon dioxide in the air as air enters from the Unicom 184 and reaches the development section 114. This prevents the moisture in the developer, washing water, and moisture in the gum solution from evaporating and exiting through the insertion hole 184!

[0345] In the drying section 120, hot air is blown from the ducts 194 and 196 onto the front and back surfaces of the lithographic printing plate 10 while the lithographic printing plate 10 is conveyed by the support roller 186 and the conveying roller pair 190 and 192. . In this drying section 120, hot air is blown onto the lithographic printing plate 10, so that the degree of polymerization of the photopolymerization layer can be increased by heat and the printing durability can be improved.

In this protective layer formation and post-exposure processing section 618, the entire surface of the image recording layer is covered with the gum solution sprayed from the liquid shower bar 526, and the gum solution solvent (moisture, etc.) and other components are used. In a state where oxygen in the air is blocked and oxygen in the air does not enter the image recording layer, the LED 20A is turned on to perform post-exposure processing.

As a result, the lithographic printing plate 10 is discharged from the discharge port 188 with a protective film formed by the gum solution applied to the surface.

[0348] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and it is needless to say that various other configurations can be taken without departing from the gist of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

[0349] 10 Planographic printing plate

12 Transport roller

14 Transport roller

15 Flow guide member

15A guide part

15B Introduction guide

15C discharge guide

16 Exposure aids

16A body B End face side member C End face member

D Connection end member

Auxiliary flow guide member A Liquid guide groove

Guide member Light irradiation unit A Light emitting diode Plate edge detection sensor Light source lighting control circuit Power source for light source Liquid shower bar Dish member Liquid circulation conduit Tube member

Filters

Pump

Heater

Dryer

Guide roller 0 Development processing section 7 Water washing section

0 Drying section

4 Developer tank

duct

5 Light guide

7 Liquid shower bar 8 saucer Conveying roller Conveying roller Light irradiation unit Light emitting diode Liquid shower bar Desensitizing treatment tank Post-exposure treatment tank

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] A lithographic printing plate having an image recording layer on which a latent image is formed by a radical photopolymerization reaction on the surface of the support is irradiated with light for exposure corresponding to the image to perform a radical photopolymerization reaction. Forming the latent image in which the image portion is solidified by waking up,

A development process for removing the non-image portion that was not radical photopolymerized in the image recording layer on which the latent image of the lithographic printing plate was formed;

Radical photopolymerization occurs in a state where the image recording layer remaining on the surface of the lithographic printing plate subjected to the development treatment is covered with a liquid layer so as to block the oxygen. A post-exposure method for a lithographic printing plate, wherein post-exposure treatment is performed by exposing the entire surface with light having a wavelength to be applied.

[2] The image portion is exposed by irradiating exposure light corresponding to the image in the exposure process for the lithographic printing plate in which an image recording layer in which a latent image is recorded by radical photopolymerization is formed on the surface of the plate-like support. The solidified latent image is formed, and a radical non-photopolymerized non-image portion in the image recording layer in which the latent image is formed by developing the lithographic printing plate is removed. A post-exposure device for improving the printing durability of a lithographic printing plate, which performs a photopolymerization layer curing treatment on the plate,

A transport path for transporting the lithographic printing plate in gas;

Inactive to the lithographic printing plate to block oxygen on the image recording layer remaining so as to form the image on the surface of the lithographic printing plate being conveyed on the conveying path. A liquid supply unit for forming a liquid layer capable of transmitting light having a wavelength that causes radical photopolymerization in the image recording layer;

A light irradiation unit that irradiates the entire surface of the lithographic printing plate that is transported on the transport path with light having a wavelength that causes radical photopolymerization through the liquid layer;

A post-exposure device for the lithographic printing plate comprising:

[3] The lithographic printing plate post-exposure device according to [2], wherein the light irradiation unit includes a light emitting diode (LED).

[4] Further, the transparent plate is disposed on the transport path at a distance from the surface of the lithographic printing plate to interpose the liquid, and is transparent so as to transmit the light irradiated from the light irradiation unit. 3. The lithographic printing plate post-exposure device according to claim 2, further comprising an exposure assisting member having a flat bottom surface on the conveyance path side.

[5] The exposure assisting member has a liquid supply opening disposed on the bottom surface on the transport path side, at an end on the upstream side in the transport direction of the lithographic printing plate, at a position extending in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction. And the liquid supply unit is integrated with the liquid supply unit so that the liquid supplied from the outside of the exposure auxiliary member is supplied between the exposure auxiliary member and the surface of the planographic printing plate via the liquid supply opening. The post-exposure device according to claim 4, which is formed as follows.

6. The lithographic printing plate according to claim 2, wherein the liquid supply unit has a liquid shower bar that is arranged on the conveyance path upstream of the light irradiation unit in the conveyance direction of the lithographic printing plate and ejects the liquid. Post-exposure device.

[7] Furthermore, a transport roller disposed on the transport path upstream of the light irradiation unit in the transport direction and in contact with the planographic printing plate,

The liquid supply unit further receives the liquid that has flowed down from the liquid shower bar toward the transport roller, and the introduction guide portion received between the outer peripheral surface of the transport roller. An arc-shaped guide portion that guides liquid, and a flow-down guide member that guides the liquid that has flowed between an outer peripheral surface of the transport roller and the arc-shaped guide portion onto the planographic printing plate. 6. The lithographic printing plate exposure apparatus according to 6.

8. The liquid circulation unit according to claim 2, further comprising a liquid circulation unit that filters the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit and flowing down from the planographic printing plate, and supplies the filtered liquid to the liquid supply unit. Post-exposure device for planographic printing plates.

[9] A lithographic printing plate in which an image recording layer on which a latent image is recorded by radical photopolymerization is formed on the surface of a plate-like support is used for exposure in a state where there is no oxygen blocking layer on the surface of the image recording layer. An exposure apparatus for a lithographic printing plate that carries in an exposure process by carrying it to an exposure position where a light beam is irradiated.

A transport path for transporting the lithographic printing plate in gas;

A flat surface that allows the exposure light beam to pass through is formed on a transparent member that is disposed at a distance from the surface of the planographic printing plate that is transported to the exposure position in the transport path with a liquid interposed therebetween. An exposure auxiliary member; On the upstream side in the transport direction of the exposure auxiliary member on the transport path, between the exposure auxiliary member and the lithographic printing plate, the light beam for exposure is transmitted to the lithographic printing plate. A liquid supply unit for filling said possible liquid;

An apparatus for exposing a lithographic printing plate comprising:

10. The lithographic printing plate exposure apparatus according to claim 9, wherein a distance between the exposure assisting member and the lithographic printing plate is equal to or less than a thickness of the liquid layer generated on the lithographic printing plate.

[11] The lithographic printing according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising a guide member for guiding the lower surface of the lithographic printing plate at a position corresponding to the lower side of the exposure auxiliary member disposed on the conveyance path. Plate exposure equipment.

[12] The liquid supply unit comprises:

A conveying roller disposed on the upstream side in the conveying direction closest to the exposure assisting member on the conveying path and in contact with the planographic printing plate;

A liquid shower bar for flowing down the liquid with respect to the transport roller;

The liquid that has flowed down from the liquid shower bar is received by an introduction guide part, introduced between the outer peripheral surface of the transfer port roller and an arcuate guide part, and flows between these to guide it onto the lithographic printing plate. A flow guide member;

12. The lithographic printing plate exposure apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the lithographic printing plate exposure apparatus comprises:

[13] A transparent member portion is disposed on a transported flat plate-like object through a liquid layer that shields the surface of the object from air, and the exposure light beam is transparent. An exposure tool for irradiating the object to be exposed through a member part and a liquid layer,

A liquid supply opening is disposed at a position across the direction orthogonal to the transport direction of the object to be exposed at an end of the bottom surface of the transparent member portion that corresponds to the upstream side in the transport direction of the object to be exposed;

The liquid fed from the outside of the transparent member portion is supplied from the liquid supply opening through the liquid supply path between the bottom surface of the transparent portion of the exposure tool and the object to be exposed. The said exposure tool comprised.

[14] An image recording layer is formed on the surface of the support for image formation utilizing a photoradical polymerization reaction. A method for developing a lithographic printing plate provided,

For the planographic printing plate on which a latent image is formed by irradiating the image recording layer with exposure light corresponding to the image, the unexposed portion of the image recording layer on which the latent image is formed is supported. Developing the latent image by removing it from the body,

A liquid is supplied onto at least the image recording layer of the developed lithographic printing plate to wash the developer, and a photo radical polymerization reaction is performed in an oxygen-blocked state in which the surface of the image recording layer is covered with the liquid. Performing a post-exposure treatment to improve the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate by exposing the entire surface with light having a wavelength that initiates or promotes,

A method for developing the lithographic printing plate.

[15] An image recording layer on which a latent image is recorded by radical photopolymerization is formed on the surface of a plate-like support, and the latent image is formed on the image recording layer by irradiation with exposure light. A developing unit that carries in the lithographic printing plate and removes an unexposed cover portion in the image recording layer from the support, and reveals an image;

A transport path for transporting the lithographic printing plate in which the image is manifested in gas, and the lithographic printing plate transported on the transport path, so as to form at least the image on the surface. Wash the developer adhering to the image recording layer! A liquid supply unit for supplying a liquid, and a transporting unit that is transported on the transporting path so as to form a layer that blocks oxygen so that light having a wavelength that causes radical photopolymerization can be transmitted to the image recording layer. A light irradiation unit for irradiating the entire surface of the image recording layer of the lithographic printing plate with light of the wavelength causing radical photopolymerization through the liquid layer;

A lithographic printing plate developing apparatus comprising:

16. The lithographic printing plate developing device according to claim 15, wherein the light irradiation unit has a light emitting diode (LED).

[17] A method for developing a lithographic printing plate in which an image recording layer is provided for image formation using a photoradical polymerization reaction on the surface of a support,

With respect to the lithographic printing plate on which the latent image is formed by irradiating the image recording layer with exposure light corresponding to the image, the unexposed portion of the image recording layer on which the latent image is formed A development processing step of revealing the latent image by removing it from the support;

Gum applied to form a protective layer for protecting the hydrophilic layer on the image recording layer that remains so as to form the image on the surface of the planographic printing plate after the development processing step. The entire plate is exposed to light having a wavelength that causes radical photopolymerization in a state where the component containing the solvent of the gum solution covers oxygen and blocks oxygen, thereby improving the printing durability of the lithographic printing plate. A protective layer forming step and a post-exposure processing step;

A method for developing the lithographic printing plate comprising:

[18] A lithographic printing plate in which an image recording layer on which a latent image is recorded by radical photopolymerization is formed on the surface of a plate-like support is irradiated with light for exposure to form a latent image on the image recording layer. A developing unit that carries in the formed lithographic printing plate, removes a portion of the image recording layer that has not been exposed from the support, and reveals an image;

A transport path for transporting the lithographic printing plate in which the image is manifested in gas, and the lithographic printing plate transported on the transport path, so as to form at least the image on the surface. ! / Gum liquid for forming a protective layer for protecting the hydrophilic layer is applied on the image recording layer, and the component containing the solvent of the gum liquid causes radical photopolymerization in the image recording layer. The image recording of the lithographic printing plate being transported on the transport path in a state in which the light in the air can be transmitted and oxygen in the air is blocked so that oxygen in the air does not enter the image recording layer. A light irradiation unit that irradiates light of a wavelength that causes radical photopolymerization on the entire surface of the layer;

A lithographic printing plate developing apparatus comprising:

19. The lithographic printing plate developing device according to claim 18, wherein the light irradiation unit includes a light emitting diode (LED).