Continuous image transfer belt and variable image size offset printing system

Abstract

A continuous image transfer belt which is useable in a variable image size offset press system and which is adapted to permit the press to print a variety of different sized printed matter is provided. The image transfer belt includes at least one base ply, at least one layer of a compressible material over the base ply, and a surface ply over the layer of compressible material Preferably, the belt is continuous. The belt is used in an offset printing system having the capability to print variable-sized images. The system includes a source of ink; at least one plate cylinder and a replaceable sleeve for the plate cylinder, and a printing plate which is adapted to receive ink from the ink source. The system also includes at least one blanket cylinder; the image transfer belt positioned to contact the printing plate in a nip formed between the plate and blanket cylinders; an image transfer belt tensioning system to register the image transfer belt to the blanket cylinder position in the area of desired image transfer; and an image belt cleaning station adapted to remove residual ink from the surface of the belt.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.