Error Number: 15189


Error Message:

ALE: plate not found during initial seek


Applies to:

  • Platesetter_3244

Service Information:

Description:  The picker head has two microswitches, one mounted behind each outer suction cup. For Normal media (mcode 0), as the picker head moves in towards the plates, it waits for both of these switches to be toggled to the opposite state. It then marks this (PY) position as where the plate is.  If while trying to pick a plate, both of the switches are not seen to change state after the full search distance is moved (plate_search_Y), the Platesetter will suspend with the message plate not found during initial seek. This problem is generally more prevalent when a plate box has only a few plates left. It is also usually an intermittent.

For Delicate Media (mcode 5) the plate search is done using the first of either the proximity sensor or picker micro switch. If neither are detected then a special delicate media error is reported. see E_ALE_DELICATE_SEEK_NOT_FOUND

The micro switches are in parallel and are closed when the cup is released and open when the cup is depressed.


Operator Action:

Resume. If this fails clear. Open bay and check that box is loaded correctly and box is flush with top of carrier and that plates inside box are < 1/4" from top of box and that top rim of box is 1.5" wide. Box should be centered, especially for smaller plates.

Call Creo Response center if problem persists.


Cause:

  • Picker tilt cylinder not moving or does not exert enough force. (check speed control eco's installed correctly) (act ptilt on|off)
  • Plates loaded improperly in cassette box. check plate box spec and position.
  • Cassette box loaded improperly in cassette bay, or not loaded at all
  • Wrong alpos NVS parameters, alpos plate_search_Y (psy) too small.
  • Poor microswitch location. Depress by hand and mae sure that they operate within 1-2mm
  • Jammed or stuck picker suction cup, should move smoothly, check setscrew binding or hoses twisting against setscrew/keyway.
  • Picker wiper fingers hindering suction cup movement.
  • Picker head not fully down into cassette bay. check aldrv z limit & alpos ppz and visually inspect Z belt clamps, should stop 1mm from pulley on closest side.
  • Y Axis movement problem. Y motor too little torque (eco), driver dying.
  • Too much spring tension in sucction cups. The spring is cut shorter by Creo production, if this was not doen (ie wrong part number), see troubleshooting on service cd.

See Also:


Go to CTP Firmware Error Index Page

Go to CTP Firmware Error Search Page

Go to CTP Firmware Main Page


Creo CTP F/W Error Code Documentation / ctp_firmware@creo.com / Updated: Tue May 14 20:01:37 2002 PST