Man Roland Druckmaschinen Ag

Stephan Suppes

Oded Zingher

Arno Wuhrl

A control system for a printing plant comprising a central computer and a plurality of substantially identical peripheral computers. The central computer has a memory including a table defining the functions of each peripheral computer. The table is transmitted for storage in definition memories of the peripheral computers. The table includes a list of allowed or non-allowed interface units for each of the peripheral computers. Each of the peripheral computers includes an array of connectors for interfacing with auxiliary equipment. Each peripheral computer is capable of polling the busy or non-busy status of each connector and utilizing that information in conjunction with information in the definition memory to determine the functions assigned to it. The system allows commonality of data in that the central computer defines the requirements for each of the peripheral computers, yet prevents overlap of function by assuring that an assigned peripheral unit can effect only the portion of the printing operation (via connected interface units) which is assigned to that particular device.

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Offenbach/Main, Germany

Stephan Suppes