Patent ID: 8573120
Filing Date: 2013-11-05
Classification: B41C,G03F,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for forming a relief pattern from a photosensitive element having an exterior surface and containing a composition layer capable of being partially liquefied comprising: means for heating the exterior surface to a temperature sufficient to cause a portion of the layer to partially liquefy; means for supporting a development medium to provide contact with the exterior surface adjacent the partially liquefied portion; and means for providing relative movement between the development medium and the means for supporting to cause the development medium to traverse the means for supporting; wherein the means for supporting comprises a non-rotating surface that contacts a side of the development medium opposite the partially liquefied portion, and wherein the non-rotating surface is resistant to displacement under operating forces encountered during formation of the relief pattern, and wherein the means for supporting further comprises means for pressing the photosensitive element and the development medium into contact at a pressure sufficient for at least a portion of the liquefied material of the composition layer to be absorbed and removed in depth by the development medium, to form the relief pattern on the element.