Ink flow control by multiple models in an offset lithographic printing process

A multiple model-based controller has been developed aiming at controlling the ink flow in the offset lithographic printing process. The control system consists of a model pool of four couples of inverse and direct models. Each couple evaluates a number of probable control signals and the couple, generating the most suitable control signal is used to control the printing press, at that moment. The developed system has been tested at a newspaper printing shop during normal production. The results show that the developed modelling and control system is able to drive the output of the printing press to the desired target levels.