JP2005121861A - Liquid treatment apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a liquid treatment apparatus capable of correctly replenishing a liquid necessary for treatment, with respect to a liquid treatment apparatus, in which a plurality of liquid treatments are carried out continuously. <P>SOLUTION: The liquid treatment apparatus in which liquid treatments are continuously carried out, while suitably replenishing replenishers, corresponding to a plurality of processing solutions is equipped with a detection means to read the information of a non-contact recording medium attached to each replenisher storage vessel, a decision means for deciding the propriety of a replenisher according to the read information, and an output means to output, based on the propriety judgement. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an apparatus capable of replenishing liquids necessary for processing without error in a liquid processing apparatus that continuously performs a plurality of types of liquid processing, and preferably an automation that continuously develops exposed silver halide photosensitive material. The present invention relates to a liquid processing apparatus capable of supplying a replenisher necessary for development and the like without error.

  Nowadays, development processing of an exposed silver halide photosensitive material used as a proof for general photographs and printed matter is generally performed using an automated developing device. Inside these automated developing devices, there are provided processing tanks in which processing liquids such as a color developer, a bleach-fixing agent and a stabilizer used for the development processing are respectively stored. The exposed photosensitive material is sequentially immersed in these processing tanks and chemically processed, and then appropriately dried and discharged to complete the processing.

  Here, the various processing solutions described above are consumed by a chemical reaction accompanying the development processing, the concentration changes due to evaporation of moisture, or adheres to the photosensitive material and moves to another tank. As a result, the concentration and amount of the treatment liquid in the treatment tank always vary from the original value. However, development processing is a chemical reaction, and changes in the concentration and amount of the processing solution affect the color development of the photosensitive material. Therefore, in many automated developing devices, a dedicated replenisher tank is provided in addition to the processing tank, and an appropriately prepared replenisher is added to each processing tank as needed, so that the processing solution The amount and concentration are kept constant.

  That is, since the replenisher in the replenisher tank is added at any time and decreases, it is necessary to batch-feed each replenisher tank with a predetermined replenisher suitable for the photosensitive material and the developing device. A replenisher filled in a dedicated containment container is commercially available.

  However, there are various types of development processing depending on the type of photosensitive material, processing steps, and development devices. For example, it varies depending on various differences such as whether the target photosensitive material is monochrome or color, and also varies depending on the developing device. Furthermore, a combination of a plurality of processing liquids such as a color developer, a bleaching agent, a fixing agent, and a stabilizer is necessary for one developing device. Therefore, although the type is determined by the design and color of the storage container or packaging material of the processing agent, other incompatible replenishers are used, or the color developer is removed from the bleach-fixing tank. Troubles such as putting in the replenisher tank sometimes occurred.

By the way, there is disclosed an image forming material and an image forming apparatus which are not related to liquid processing such as replenishing liquid and development, but are provided with a recording medium in which image forming information is recorded in a paper magazine of silver halide photosensitive material. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1). Further, although not related to a silver halide light-sensitive material, a so-called standing pouch is disclosed in which a non-contact type IC chip is mounted on a notch portion of a seal portion of a folded bottom tape. (For example, see Patent Document 2). Furthermore, although not related to the silver halide photosensitive material, each type is recorded as data in a non-contact data carrier mounted on each of the ink container and the plate-making master, and the stencil printing machine does not contact them. There is disclosed a stencil printing machine system that includes a non-contact data carrier reader that reads data recorded on a data carrier and that can confirm that the combination of the ink container and the master making master is suitable. (For example, refer to Patent Document 3).
JP 2003-207873 A JP 2003-95280 A JP 2002-052802 A

  An object of the present invention is to provide a liquid processing apparatus that can replenish liquids necessary for processing without error in a liquid processing apparatus that continuously performs a plurality of types of liquid processing. Preferably, it is an object of the present invention to provide a developing device for automatically developing a silver halide photosensitive material, which can replenish a plurality of types of processing solutions necessary for processing such as development without error.

  A first aspect of the invention is a liquid processing apparatus that uses a plurality of types of processing liquids and performs liquid processing continuously while appropriately replenishing a replenishing liquid corresponding to the processing liquid, and is attached to a storage container for the replenishing liquid. Detection means for reading information on the non-contact recording medium, determination means for determining the suitability of the replenisher based on the read information, and output means for performing output based on the suitability determination result. The liquid processing apparatus is characterized.

  Here, it is preferable that the output means displays a result of suitability determination using a signal lamp. Moreover, it is preferable that the said output means instruct | indicates the installation position or inlet of the said replenisher. Further, the replenishing liquid replenishment door door opening detection means is provided, and when the suitability determination result is incompatible, and the opening detection means detects the replenishment door door opening, the output means It is preferable to output a warning signal. Further, it is preferable that the non-contact recording medium is a two-dimensional code or an IC tag, and the detection means is a two-dimensional code reader or an IC tag reader corresponding to the non-contact recording medium. Further, it further comprises means for detecting an increase in the liquid level accompanying the introduction of the replenishing liquid, and further comprises a recording means for recording the replenishing liquid input information when the increase in the liquid level is detected. preferable.

  A second aspect of the invention is a liquid processing apparatus that uses a plurality of types of processing liquids and performs liquid processing continuously while appropriately replenishing a replenishing liquid corresponding to the processing liquid, and is attached to a storage container for the replenishing liquid. At least two types of detection means for reading information on the non-contact recording medium, determination means for determining the suitability of the replenisher based on the read information, and output means for performing output based on the suitability judgment result The two types of detection means are liquid processing apparatuses characterized in that the information readable distance is relatively short and the information readable distance is relatively long.

  Here, it is preferable that the output means outputs at least two stages corresponding to the at least two types of detection means. Further, when the replenishment liquid is provided with a replenishing port door locking means, and the suitability determination result based on the information read using the detection means having a relatively short readable distance, It is preferable that the lock is released. Preferably, the detection means having a relatively short readable distance is a two-dimensional code reader or a short distance IC tag reader, and the detection means having a relatively long readable distance is an IC tag reader. Further, it is preferable that the plurality of types of processing solutions are processing solutions for silver halide photosensitive materials, and the solution processing includes development processing for silver halide photosensitive materials.

  It is possible to prevent an accident that a plurality of types of processing liquids used for liquid processing are put into an incorrect processing tank. In addition, it is possible to prevent accidents in which processing liquids having different target devices are erroneously introduced into the device.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, as an example of the liquid processing apparatus, an apparatus for forming a proof of a printed material by sequentially performing from exposure to development using a silver halide photosensitive material is used. Further, as the liquid processing, an example in which three processes of color development processing, bleach-fixing processing, and stabilization processing are performed will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments. The liquid processing apparatus may be a general photographic developing apparatus or other liquid processing apparatus.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of a proofer example according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The proofer includes an exposure device 11 that exposes a silver halide photosensitive material according to predetermined image data, and a developing device 10 that is provided in parallel with the exposure device 11 and that continuously develops the photosensitive material exposed by the exposure device 11. Become. The entire proofer is controlled by a control unit 13 provided at the top of the exposure apparatus 11. The display 14 provided in the control unit 13 is of a touch panel type, displays the operation status of the proofer, and accepts condition settings for various operations of the proofer.

  An IC tag reader antenna 15 is provided at the front center of the developing device 10 to read information by communicating with an IC tag attached to a replenisher storage container brought in the vicinity of the developing device 10. Further, a color developer replenisher inlet 24, a bleach-fixer replenisher inlet 23, and a stabilizer replenisher inlet 22 are provided at the upper front of the developing device 10. It has been. In addition, a total of six LED signal lights 16 to 21 are provided on the upper surface of the developing device, two for each of the color developer, the bleach-fixing agent, and the stabilizer. These signal lamps are turned on based on the result of the determination made by the control unit 13 as to whether or not the replenisher in the storage container transported in the vicinity of the developing device 10 is a replenisher suitable for the developing device 10. .

  The exposure apparatus 11 pulls out a photosensitive material by a predetermined length from a photosensitive material storage unit 12 in which a roll-shaped photosensitive material is stored, and carries the photosensitive material on a drum provided inside the exposure apparatus. Thereafter, the LED is moved in a direction parallel to the central axis of the drum while appropriately emitting light, and at the same time, the drum is rotated to perform two-dimensional scanning, and the photosensitive material carried on the drum is exposed according to predetermined image data. The exposed long photosensitive material is removed from the drum and sent to the developing device 10 (none is shown).

  FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of the internal structure of the developing device 10. Inside the developing device 10, as a liquid processing tank, there are a color developing tank 40 storing a color developer, a bleach-fixing tank 39 storing a bleach-fixing agent, and three stabilizing tanks 38, 37, 36 storing a stabilizer. The exposed long photosensitive material (not shown) is guided by a plurality of guide rolls, meanders, and is sequentially immersed in each tank, so that color development processing, bleach-fixing processing, Receive stable treatment. Subsequently, the photosensitive material is dried to complete the proof.

  A replenisher tank for supplying a replenisher to each processing tank as needed is provided under each processing tank inside the developing device 10. By providing such a replenisher tank, the liquid treatment in each treatment tank can be performed continuously and without interruption even during the replenishment operation of the replenisher. As the replenisher tank, a color developer replenisher tank 44, a bleach-fixer replenisher tank 43, a stabilizer replenisher tank 42, and a water tank 41 are provided. The replenishing liquid tanks 42 to 44 are provided with liquid flow paths 33 to 35 connected to three input ports 30 to 32 provided in the upper part of the developing device. When a predetermined replenisher is introduced from the inlets 30 to 32 in a state where the doors 22 to 24 of the inlets are opened, the replenishers are guided to the liquid flow paths 33 to 35, and the respective replenishers are respectively replenished liquid tanks. 42-44. The water replenishing tank 41 is connected to a tank of a pure water production apparatus (not shown) provided separately, and pure water is supplied through an automatic valve as needed. . However, water may be replenished from the charging port by providing a charging port, a charging port door, and a liquid flow path, as with other replenishing solutions.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of a cross section of the developing device viewed from the A-A ′ direction in FIG. 2. A stabilization tank 38 is provided at the upper center of FIG. 3, and a replenisher tank 43 for the bleach-fixing agent is provided at the lower part thereof. A liquid level sensor 51 is provided in the replenishing liquid tank 43. When the liquid level drops below a predetermined position, it is detected and a signal is output to the control unit. A metering pump 50 is provided on the back surface of the replenisher tank 43, and replenisher is supplied from the replenisher tank to the bleach-fixing tank 39 at any time at a preset supply rate based on the amount of the developed photosensitive material. ing. The left side of FIG. 3 is the front of the apparatus, and an antenna 15, a replenisher inlet 31 and an inlet door 23 are provided on the front of the apparatus (FIG. 3 shows a state in which the door is opened). A signal lamp 18 is installed from the front side. The input port 31 is connected to a replenisher tank 43 for the bleach-fixing agent via a liquid channel 34. Here, the case of the bleach-fixing agent is described as an example, but the same mechanism is provided for the color developer and the stabilizer.

  FIG. 4 is an enlarged schematic view of the vicinity of the bleach-fixing agent inlet 31 when the developing device 10 is viewed from the front. FIG. 4 shows a state in which the door 23 is opened with the hinge 56 of the insertion port door 23 as a rotation axis. On the back surface of the door 23, a packing 54 is provided that can seal the insertion port 31 in a state in which the door 23 is closed. Similarly, a claw 52 is provided at the other end of the hinge on the back surface of the door 23. The device portion corresponding to the claw 52 with the door 23 closed is provided with an insertion hole 53 into which the claw 52 can be inserted. When the claw 52 is inserted into the hole 53, a lock mechanism (not shown) is used. The claw 52 is fixed, and the door 23 is fixed in a state where the insertion port 31 is sealed with the packing 54. Further, a door sensor 55 for detecting the open state of the door is provided above the insertion hole 53. When the door 23 is opened manually from the outside of the apparatus, the door sensor 55 sends a signal indicating the open state to the control unit. 13

  Next, the replenisher storage container 60 shown in FIG. 5 will be described. The replenisher storage container 60 of FIG. 5 is molded using a hard resin such as polyethylene, and is provided with a handle 60 for carrying and a replenisher inlet 62. Alternatively, the replenisher may be stored in a soft resin bag and the bag stored in a paper carton. Generally, storage containers such as these have a weight of about 1 kg to 10 kg in a filled state, and handleability is not always good. For this reason, it is desirable to know the suitability or nonconformity before performing a specific charging operation in order to increase the work efficiency.

  An IC tag 70 is attached to the lower front surface of the inlet 62 of the storage container in FIG. Here, a schematic diagram of the schematic configuration of the IC tag is shown in FIG. The IC tag includes a coiled antenna 74 that receives drive power by induced electromotive force and transmits / receives a signal, a transmission / reception unit 71 that temporarily stores power and modulates / demodulates the signal, and a memory according to instructions of the received signal And a memory 73 for storing the product code number and lot number of the replenisher filled in the storage container, and the identification number for each storage container.

  This IC tag has a communication distance of 1 m, and when the storage container is brought within the communication distance from the antenna 15 of the developing device 10, it communicates with the developing device and enters the storage container. Provide the above information regarding the replenisher. This is because the storage container for the replenisher has a certain weight, and therefore a non-contact recording medium that can determine suitability even at a certain distance is suitable.

  Next, the control unit 80 of the developing device will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an overview of a control unit and sensors connected to the control unit. Here, the control unit 80 includes three liquid level sensors (for example, 51) provided in the three replenishing liquid tanks 42 to 44, and three door sensors (for example, provided at three kinds of replenishing liquid inlets). 55) Three signal lights 1 and two signal lights 2 provided at the upper part of the apparatus are connected for each type of replenisher. However, since the operation is independent for each type of replenisher, for the sake of simplicity, FIG. 7 shows only one of them for the bleach-fixing agent. In addition to the above, the control unit 80 is connected to the antenna 15 of the IC tag reader, the display 14 that receives input of the operation status and setting conditions of the control unit, and the speaker 88 that generates a warning sound when the replenisher is incompatible. .

  The liquid level detection unit of the control unit 80 constantly monitors the liquid level sensor. When data indicating that the liquid level in a specific replenishment liquid tank has fallen below a certain level is received from the liquid level sensor, a liquid level warning is displayed. Send a signal to display a warning screen to the part. Also, an IC tag reading start signal is sent to the IC tag reader unit 82.

  The liquid amount warning display unit 83 that has received the display signal reads the screen information of the warning screen stored in the memory 84 and displays a warning screen for prompting the replenishment of the specific replenishment liquid that has been reacted by the liquid level sensor on the display 14. . Further, the IC tag reader unit 82 that has received the reading start signal turns on the antenna 15 and enters a standby state waiting for an IC tag to enter within a communicable distance. When an IC tag enters within the communicable distance, the IC tag reader unit 82 reads information such as the product code and lot number of the IC tag and sends it to the compatibility determination unit 85.

  The suitability determination unit 85 once registers these data in the used product table in the memory. This registration may be performed after detecting the rise of the liquid level in the replenisher tank. In addition, a product code table of replenisher suitable for the developing device 10 stored in the memory 84 is read in advance, and this is compared with the product code from the IC tag to replenish the replenisher in the storage container with the IC tag. It is determined whether or not the product code matches any of the product codes stored in the previous product code table, and whether or not the product code corresponds to the treatment liquid whose liquid level has decreased. As a result of the determination, if both are suitable, the 18 signal lamps 1 of the corresponding types of processing liquid inlets are lit in blue, which means that there is no problem. In addition, the suitability determination unit 85 sends a signal to the effect that the code is compatible to the door opening warning unit 86.

  If any of the above is not applicable, the 18 signal lamps 1 are lit in red indicating that there is an error. Further, when the identification number for each storage container among the information from the IC tag is already stored in the used product table, the 18 signal lamps 1 are lit in red. However, in the case where a plurality of storage containers are brought within the communicable distance of the IC tag, if the opened door matches any of them, the suitability determination unit 85 turns on a signal light with no problem.

  In this way, when a replenisher that is not suitable for a developing device or a replenisher of a different type from a replenisher whose level is lowered is brought into the vicinity of the developing device, this mistake is easily noticed. Is possible. At this time, it is only necessary to approach a certain distance to the developing device, so that work is not time-consuming.

  The door opening warning unit 86 constantly monitors the door sensor, and turns on the 19 signal lamps 2 when data indicating that the door has been opened is received from the door sensor. Here, in the case where the open door is the door of the replenisher inlet that has received a signal that the replenisher is compatible from the compatibility determination unit 85, the 19 signal light 2 is blue indicating no problem. Turn on the LED, otherwise turn on the red LED which means there is a mistake. When the 19 signal lamps 2 turn on the red LED, a warning sound is generated from the speaker 88 at the same time.

  By doing so, it is possible to prevent a mistake that an incompatible replenisher is introduced without noticing the signal light 1, or a mistake that a compatible replenisher is entered into the wrong inlet is avoided. be able to. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent mistakes from occurring due to the influence of the used storage container.

  The flow of processing will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. First, FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an outline of processing when the liquid level sensor detects a decrease in the liquid level. First, the liquid level sensor constantly monitors the liquid level, and detects whether data indicating a decrease in the liquid level is obtained at regular time intervals (step S005). If a drop in the liquid level is detected, the flow branches downward and proceeds to step S010, where the liquid level warning display unit 83 displays a warning screen for prompting the replenishment liquid to be replenished on the display 14 (step S010). . Subsequently, the IC tag reader unit 82 starts operating, energizes the antenna 15 to transmit (step S015), and enters a standby state waiting for the IC tag to come near the antenna 15 (step S020). When the antenna 15 detects the IC tag, the compatibility of the replenisher with the IC tag attached is determined (step S025). First, it is determined whether the replenisher is compatible with the developing device 10 and whether the replenisher is compatible with the replenisher having a lowered liquid level. The determination of compatibility with the developing device is performed by comparison with a product code stored in a code table of a compatible product stored in advance in a memory. Relevant if there is a matching code. At the same time, it is determined whether the identification code for each storage container read from the IC tag matches the identification code stored in the used product table. If there is a matching code, it is not suitable because it is already used.

  If this determination results in incompatibility, the signal lamp 1 at the replenisher inlet where the liquid level is lowered is lit red to indicate that there is an error (step S030), the process returns to step S020, and a compatible IC tag The same flow is repeated until is detected. If the result of the determination in step S025 is a match, the signal lamp 1 at the corresponding insertion port is lit in blue, meaning that there is no problem, and the process ends.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an outline of a process flow relating to the door sensor. Each of the door sensors monitors the entrance door and determines whether or not the door opening warning unit 86 has obtained data indicating that the door has been opened at regular intervals (step S050). If data indicating that the door has been opened is obtained, the flow moves to step S055 to determine whether or not the opened door is suitable. Specifically, if it is the door of the replenisher inlet that has received a signal indicating that the replenisher is compatible from the compatibility determination unit 85, it is determined that it is compatible, and if not, it is determined that it is not compatible. . In the case of non-conformity, the flow branches to the right from step S055, the red LED indicating that there is an error in signal light 2 is turned on, a warning sound is generated from the speaker, and then the flow returns to step S050 to open the door. The flow is repeated until it is closed or a matching IC tag is brought in. If it is determined to be suitable in step S055, the corresponding signal light 2 at the insertion port is lit in blue, meaning that there is no problem, and the process ends.

  Here, the IC tag may be a microwave type or an optical communication type. However, the electromagnetic induction type or the microwave type is preferable from the viewpoint that a power source is unnecessary, and the layout around the developing device varies depending on each user. Therefore, the electromagnetic induction type having low directivity is preferable. In addition, the IC tag may be rewritable, but may be read-only when cost is important. When rewritable data is used, it is only necessary to write used data to the IC tag instead of leaving the used data in the memory of the developing device. The writing timing may be performed, for example, by detecting a rise in the liquid level in the replenisher tank. In this case, when there are a plurality of developing devices, the replenisher storage container used in any of the developing devices is convenient because it is used in other developing devices. In the case where a microwave chip having a fine shape is used as the IC tag, the IC tag may be mixed with the printing ink of the replenisher packaging material, or may be mixed with the non-slip resin.

  Further, as a non-contact recording medium, a two-dimensional code reading sensor which is not an IC tag but is attached to a storage container and fixed to a developing device and has a relatively long readable distance may be used. good. Alternatively, each two-dimensional code may be read using a two-dimensional code reading sensor having a short readable distance provided so that it can be drawn out from the developing device by wire. In this case, it is necessary to perform a reading operation for each storage container. Although a normal barcode may be used instead of a two-dimensional code, the two-dimensional code is preferable because it is resistant to dirt and has a larger amount of information than a barcode. Here, the two-dimensional code refers to a code having information in the horizontal and vertical directions, that is, in the two-dimensional direction.

  By adopting the configuration as described above, it is possible to prevent a mistake that a replenisher that is not suitable for a liquid processing apparatus is thrown in or that a suitable replenisher is thrown into a wrong inlet.

  Next, an example of a liquid processing apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 10 is a proofer similar to that described in the first embodiment, except that two types of non-contact recording media are used in one storage container, and corresponding reading sensors are used. The effective distance at which they can exchange information with the developing device is that the distance is relatively long and the distance is relatively short. Below, it demonstrates centering around difference with 1st Embodiment. In the apparatus example shown in FIG. 10, read sensors 101 to 103 of a two-dimensional code reader are provided immediately below the inlet door (for example, 112) for each replenisher.

  FIG. 11 is an enlarged schematic view of the vicinity of the bleach-fix agent inlet door 112 of FIG. FIG. 11 shows a state where the door 112 is opened. The difference from FIG. 4 is that when the door is fixed in the closed position by a lock mechanism (not shown), the lock is released by a signal from the control unit, and the door 112 is replaced with the door 112. Is a reading sensor 102 of a two-dimensional code reader. When the door 112 is unlocked by the control unit, the door 112 is rotated to the open position with the hinge 127 as a rotation axis by the action of a spring (not shown) provided on the hinge 127. It has become.

  FIG. 12 shows an example of a replenisher storage container corresponding to the apparatus of the second embodiment. The difference from FIG. 5 is that a two-dimensional code is affixed directly below the inlet 152 at the upper front of the container. This two-dimensional code is an example of a non-contact recording medium that can be read at a relatively short distance, and the IC tag 154 is an example of a non-contact recording medium that can be read at a relatively long distance.

  FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an outline of the control unit 160 in the developing device of the second embodiment. The difference from the control unit of FIG. 7 is that instead of the door sensor 55 and the door opening warning unit 86, FIG. The two-dimensional code reading sensor 102 and the two-dimensional code reader unit 163 are provided, and a signal from the two-dimensional code reader unit is sent to the compatibility determination unit 166 to determine compatibility, and the signal lamp 2 is turned on accordingly. The door control unit 167 operates the door opening mechanism.

  The suitability determination unit 166 determines whether the information sent from the IC tag reader unit 161 is compatible with the developing device 105 as in 85 of FIG. If it matches, an operation start signal is sent to the two-dimensional code reader unit 163. Receiving this signal, the two-dimensional code reader unit 163 operates the reading sensor 102 and enters a standby state. Further, the suitability determination unit 166 determines whether or not the storage container near the reading sensor is compatible based on the read information from the two-dimensional code reader unit 163, and displays the result on the signal light 2 of 111. In addition, if it is suitable, a signal for unlocking the corresponding door is sent to the door control unit 167.

  The two-dimensional code reader unit 163 detects and reads the two-dimensional code by the reading sensor 102, and sends the read information to the compatibility determination unit 166. The reading sensor 102 is set to read the two-dimensional code when the two-dimensional code of the storage container is brought into the distance of several mm to several cm from the sensor. This distance may be set within a range in which interference with the adjacent reading sensors 101 and 103 does not occur.

  The door control unit 167 operates the door opening mechanism 168 in accordance with the release signal from the compatibility determination unit 166 to release the door locked state, and the corresponding door is automatically opened.

  With this configuration, it is first determined whether or not the replenisher storage container brought into the distance of about 1 m from the developing device 105 is suitable, and then the replenisher storage container brought into the inlet. Is determined to be suitable. As described above, the suitability is determined in two steps of a relatively long distance and a relatively short distance, so that the workability of replenishment is greatly improved, and no mistake of the processing liquid to be introduced occurs.

  An outline of the processing flow of this apparatus is shown in FIG. The liquid level sensor constantly monitors the liquid level and detects whether or not data indicating a decrease in the liquid level is obtained at regular time intervals (step S105). If a drop in the liquid level is detected, the flow branches down to step S110, and the liquid amount warning display unit 164 displays a warning screen for prompting replenishment of the corresponding replenisher on the display 109. Subsequently, the IC tag reader unit 162 starts operating, energizes the antenna 104 to transmit (step S115), and enters a standby state waiting for an IC tag to come near the antenna 104 (step S120).

  When the antenna 104 detects the IC tag and the information of the IC tag is read, the suitability determination unit 166 determines the suitability of the replenisher with the IC tag attached (step S130). The determination is made based on whether the replenisher is compatible with the developing device 10, whether the replenisher is compatible with the replenisher with the liquid level lowered, and the identification code for each storage container read from the IC tag at the same time. This is done as to whether or not it matches the identification code stored in the finished product table. The compatibility with the developing device is determined by comparison with the product code of the compatible product code table stored in the memory 165 in advance. Relevant if there is a matching code. If there is a code that matches the used product table, it is not used because it is already used. In any case, the flow branches to the right from step S130, the signal light 1 at the inlet of the replenisher to be replenished is lit in red meaning nonconformity (step S135), and the flow is step S120. Return to. Steps S120 and S135 are repeated until a suitable IC tag is detected.

  If it is determined in step S130 that it is compatible, the flow branches downward, and the signal lamp 1 that indicates the inlet of the corresponding replenisher is lit in blue indicating compliance (step S140). Subsequently, the two-dimensional code reader unit 163 starts operating (step S145), and the reading sensor 102 is energized to enter a two-dimensional code reading standby state.

  When the reading sensor 102 detects the two-dimensional code (step S150) and the information of the two-dimensional code is read, the suitability determining unit 166 includes the product code number, lot number, and storage container identification number included in the two-dimensional code. From step S130, suitability is determined (step S155). If the result of this determination is incompatibility, the signal light 2 at the replenisher inlet where the liquid level is lowered is lit red to indicate that there is an error and a warning sound is generated from the speaker (step S160). Returning to the step, the flow of S150 and S160 is repeated until no incompatible two-dimensional code is detected. If the result of the determination in step S155 is met, the corresponding input port signal light 2 is lit in blue meaning no problem (step S165), and then the corresponding input port door locking mechanism is released ( Step S170) The process ends.

  With this configuration, replenishment workability is greatly improved, and no mistakes are made in the processing solution to be added. Further, even when a plurality of storage containers are placed within the communicable distance of the IC tag, there is no error as to which replenishment liquid is put into which input port.

  Here, the contactless recording medium attached to the storage container is only one type of IC tag or two-dimensional code, and the reading distance of the reading sensor of the developing device or the communication distance of the antenna is set to a relatively short distance and a long distance. You may make it adjust to. Moreover, as long as operation | movement is performed reliably, the various variation demonstrated in 1st Embodiment can also be given.

  In addition, the detection of the replenishment liquid replenishment timing is not only performed in one stage, as described above, but the liquid level in the replenisher tank is detected in a plurality of practically possible stages, and the color corresponding to each is detected. A signal lamp may be turned on. For example, when the liquid level in the replenisher tank has dropped to a point where the amount of replenisher for one containment container can be charged, the signal light is lit in orange. The signal lamp may be lit in red at the stage where the continuation of the operation is disturbed. In this way, it is possible to always store a sufficient amount of replenisher in the replenisher tank. For example, when continuous operation at night is desired, the replenisher is insufficient during unattended operation. There is no risk of causing

  Further, the signal lamp may not be provided for each replenisher to be replenished, for example, only one signal lamp may be provided. In this case, when a plurality of storage containers are brought in the vicinity of the apparatus, it is only necessary to display conformity only when all of them are suitable, and to indicate nonconformity when any one of them is nonconforming.

It is a front view of the example of a proofer. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an outline of an internal structure of a developing device. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of a cross section of the developing device as viewed from the A-A ′ direction of FIG. FIG. 3 is an enlarged schematic view of the vicinity of a bleach-fixing agent inlet of a developing device. It is the figure which showed the example of the storage container of a replenishment liquid. It is the schematic diagram which showed schematic structure of the IC tag. It is the block diagram which showed the outline | summary of the sensors etc. which were connected to the control part and the control part. It is the flowchart which showed the outline | summary of the process when a liquid level sensor detects the fall of a liquid level. It is the flowchart which showed the outline of the processing flow regarding a door sensor. It is a front view of the other proofer example. FIG. 11 is an enlarged schematic view of the vicinity of the charging fixing door of FIG. 10. It is the figure which showed the other example of the storage container of a replenishment liquid. It is the block diagram which showed the outline | summary of the control part 160, sensors, etc. It is the flowchart which showed the schematic flow of the process in the other proofer example.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Proofer 10 Development apparatus 11 Exposure apparatus 12 Photosensitive material storage part 13 Control part 14 Display 15 Antenna 16, 18, 20 Signal lamp 1
17, 19, 21 Signal light 2
22-24 Input door 30-32 Input port 33-35 Liquid flow path 36 Third stabilization tank 37 Second stabilization tank 38 First stabilization tank 39 Bleach fixing tank 40 Color development tank 41 Replenishment water tanks 42-44 Replenisher tank 50 Metering pump 51 Liquid level sensor 52 Claw 53 Insertion hole 54 Packing 55 Door sensor 56 Hinge 60 Replenisher container 61 Handle 62 Inlet 70 IC tag 71 Transmitter / receiver 72 Controller 73 Memory 74 Antenna 80 Controller 81 Liquid level detection unit 82 IC tag reader unit 83 Liquid level warning display unit 84 Memory 85 Compatibility determination unit 86 Door opening warning unit 88 Speaker 100 Proofers 101 to 103 Two-dimensional code reading sensor 104 Antenna 105 Development device 106 Exposure device 107 Photosensitive material storage Unit 108 Control unit 109 Display 110 Signal lamp 1
111 Signal light 2
112 Input port 120 Input port 123 Liquid channel 124 Packing 125 Insertion hole 126 Claw 127 Hinge 150 Replenisher tank 151 Handle 152 Inlet 153 Two-dimensional code 154 IC tag 160 Control unit 161 Liquid level detection unit 162 IC tag reader unit 163 Second Dimension code reader unit 164 Liquid level warning display unit 165 Memory 166 Compatibility determination unit 167 Door control unit 168 Door opening mechanism

Claims (11)

  A liquid processing apparatus that continuously performs liquid processing using a plurality of types of processing liquids and appropriately replenishing a replenishing liquid corresponding to the processing liquid, the non-contact recording medium attached to the replenishing liquid storage container A liquid processing apparatus comprising: detection means for reading information; determination means for determining the suitability of the replenisher based on the read information; and output means for performing output based on the suitability determination result .   The liquid processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output unit displays a result of suitability determination using a signal lamp.   The liquid processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output means indicates an installation position or an inlet of the replenishing liquid.   Further, the replenishment liquid door opening detection means is provided, and when the suitability determination result is incompatible, and the opening detection means detects the replenishment door door opening, the output means, The liquid processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a warning signal is output.   The non-contact recording medium is a two-dimensional code or an IC tag, and the detection means is a two-dimensional code reader or an IC tag reader corresponding to the non-contact recording medium. The liquid processing apparatus in any one.   2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising means for detecting an increase in the liquid level accompanying the introduction of the replenishing liquid, and a recording means for recording the information on the replenishing liquid being charged when the increase in the liquid level is detected. To 5. The liquid processing apparatus according to any one of 5 to 5.   A liquid processing apparatus that continuously performs liquid processing using a plurality of types of processing liquids and appropriately replenishing a replenishing liquid corresponding to the processing liquid, the non-contact recording medium attached to the replenishing liquid storage container And at least two types of detection means for reading information, a determination means for determining the suitability of the replenisher based on the read information, and an output means for performing output based on the suitability determination result. The liquid processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information readable distance is relatively short and the information readable distance is relatively long.   The liquid processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the output unit performs output in at least two stages corresponding to the at least two types of detection units.   Further, the replenishing liquid door door locking means is provided, and the lock is provided when the result of suitability determination based on the information read using the detecting means having a relatively short readable distance is met. The liquid processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the liquid processing apparatus is released.   10. The detection means having a relatively short readable distance is a two-dimensional code reader or a short distance IC tag reader, and the detection means having a relatively long readable distance is an IC tag reader. Liquid processing equipment. 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of types of processing solutions are processing solutions for a silver halide photosensitive material, and the processing includes developing a silver halide photosensitive material. The liquid processing apparatus as described.

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