Development of a System for Computerized, Automatic Ink-Flow Control

A system for computerized, automatic ink-flow control greatly simplifying the task of presetting ink fountains (for web and sheetfed presses) is described. Two principles embodied in the system are the establishment of reliable, programmable ink density criteria via a plate scan process and the conversion and utilization of this data to program motor driven, leak-proof segmented fountain blades. This paper describes all of the criteria, design and development considerations, and the resulting equipment design of the Perretta I-77 Ink Flow control System.