Patent ID: 7013806
Filing Date: 2006-03-21
Classification: B41C,G03F

Abstract:
1. Apparatus for developing imaged lithographic printing plates having soluble areas of coating comprising conveying means for moving said plates across a substantially horizontal support structure, means for applying developer solution to said imaged plates whereby said soluble areas of coating are dissolved in said developer solution to produce spent developer solution and developed plates, and means for removing said spent developer solution from said developed plates wherein said means for applying developer solution comprises: a. printhead means for jetting said developer solution onto said plates; b. means for feeding said developer solution to said printhead means; c. mounting means for mounting said printhead means above said conveying means; and d. control means for activating said printhead means to jet developer solution in response to the presence of a plate under said printhead means and for deactivating said printhead means in response to the absence of a plate under said printhead means.