US2495111A - Photographic product - Google Patents

Description

Jan. 17, 1950 Filed NOV. 5, 1946 E. H. LAND PHOTOGRAPHIC PRODUCT 4 Sheets-Sheet l Jan. 17, 1950 E. H. LAND 2,495 111 PHOTOGRAPHIC PRODUCT Filed Nov. 5, 1946 4 Sheets-Sheet 2 FIG. 3

w f lmag c Carrying Layer 64 FIG.4

Phorosens irive Layer INV NTOR Jan. 17, 1950 E. H. LAND PHOTOGRAPHIC PRODUCT I 4 Sheets-Sheet 3 Filed Nov. 5 1946 FIG. 5

FIG. 6

FIG. 7

- v INVENTOR Jan. 17, 1950 E. H. LAND PHOTOGRAPHIC' PRODUCT 4 Sheets-Sheet 4 Filed NOV. 5, 1946 INVENTO'R 4/ W IO BY C FIG.

Patented Jan. 17, 1950 PHOTOGRAPHIC PRODUCT Edwin H. Land, Cambridge, Mass, assignor to Polaroid Corporation, Cambridge, Mass, a corporation of Delaware Application November 5, 1946, Serial No. 707,966

24 Claims. 1

This invention relates to photography and more particularly to novel photographic film assemblages embodying a photosensitive layer and novel photographic products comprising a combination of at least one such assemblage and means for housing said assemblage which are capable of subjecting such assemblage to a predetermined processing.

It is a principal object of the invention to provide a photographic film assemblage of the type comprising a photosensitive layer, another layer and a container having therein a liquid composition, said photosensitive layer being stored in one portion of a housing therefor so as to permit exposure thereof, and the other of said layers being stored in a diiierent portion of said housing, the assemblage being so constructed that, by a simple pulling operation, one of the layers can be moved into a predetermined operative processing relationship with the container and the other layer and the assemblage processed to produce therein a positive image.

Another object of the invention is to provide a novel photographic product comprising a housing and a film assemblage of the type containing a releasable liquid, said housing being capable of applying a liquid releasing force to such an assemblage when a portion of said assemblage is moved .with respect to said housing.

Another object of the invention is to provide a novel photographic product comprising a housing or magazine and at least one film assemblage of the type releasably containing a liquid, said housing having a processing means for each film assemblage, said means being capable of performing one or more of the functions of releasing said liquid within said assemblage, spreading said liquid between two layers of the film assemblage, wiping the excess liquid from the sides and end of the assemblage, and forming a light seal for the housing.

Another object of the present invention .is to provide a novel photographic product of the above type comprising a housing or magazine and one or more film assemblages of the above type, said magazine being cheap, simple to manufacture and assemble, being disposable, embodying within itself all themeans necessary to .processsaid assemblage ac'ting as .a trap for any exce's's processing liquid, and being usable on standard film pack cameras so that a positive image may be directly obtained with existing cameras.

These and other objects of the invention will in part be obvious and will in part appear hereinafter.

For a fuller understanding of the nature and objects of the invention reference should be had to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:

Figure l is an exaggerated schematic partially cross-sectional view of a preferred modification of the invention showing its relationship to a camera;

Fig. 2 is an exaggerated diagrammatic fragmentary perspective view of a portion of the novel photographicfilm assemblage of the above type showing the relationship of the elements thereof during the use of the invention;

Fig. 3 is an exaggerated diagrammatic secz'ional View of another modification of the inven- Fig. 4 is a front view of a modification of the invention shown in Fig. 3;

Fig. 5 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional exaggerated View of another modification of the invention where the containers are mounted in staggered relationship to each other;

Fig. ,6 is a fragmentary diagrammatic crosssectional exaggerated viewof still another modification of the invention;

Fig. '7 is a front view of the modification of the invention shown in Fig. 6;

Fig. '8 is a fragmentary diagrammatic cross.- se'c'ti'onal exaggerated View of still another modification of the invention;

Fig. 9 is a diagrammatic fragmentary crossse'ctio'nal view of a modified withdrawal opening contemplated by the present invention; and

Fig. 10 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional View of another type of withdrawal opening.

In general this application relates to {novel photographic products comprising a magazine and oneor more novel photographic film assemblages of the type-which include a photosensitive layer, another layer, and means releasably confining a liquid composition, the magazine preferably comprising means for processing said assemblage by causing the release .of said liquid and the permeation of 'said liquid into at least said photosensitive layer. In a preferred form of the invention, the liquid composition is preferably carried by a collapsible container and preferably includes a reagent capable of creating a desired processing of said assemblage by reaction with at least said photosensitive layer. The photosensitive layer is preferably the kind which may have produced therein a developable latent image, by exposure to actinic light, and the reagent preferably comprises a developer capable of developing said latent image.

The several layers of each assemblage are preferably slidably positioned within said magazine and have, in their stored position in said magazine, a relationship permitting exposure of said photosensitive layer, and said layers, in another position in said magazine, have a relationship permitting processing of said assemblage with said container in position to discharge said liquid composition between said layers.

The magazine preferably comprises means defining a plurality of withdrawal openings from said magazine, there being one withdrawal opening for each film assemblage, a portion of each of said film assemblages extends through its associated withdrawal opening, and means are associated with each of said withdrawal openings for releasing said liquid from said container as said film assemblage is withdrawn from said magazine.

Referring now to the preferred modification of the invention shown in Fig. 1, there is provided a housing, or magazine, generally indicated at l5, and a plurality of photographic assemblages, each of said assemblages comprising a photosensitive layer 39, another layer 3%, and a container 4B. These layers are normally stored in the magazine so that the layers of the assemblage have an exposure relationship, 1. e., one permitting exposure of the photosensitive layer 30. When the layers are in this exposure relationship the photosensitive layer 39 is preferably positioned so as to be facing an exposure opening in the magazine. The other layer 34 is preferably positioned in another portion of the magazine so that it will not interfere with the exposure of the photosensitive layer to actinic light.

When the layers of the assemblage are in their proper relationship for processing of the assemblage, the two layers of the assemblage are preferably in face-to-face parallel relationship and the container is positioned so as to discharge its liquid between the adjacent faces of these layers. In order that the layers of the assemblage may be positioned in this processing relationship, one of the layers is preferably provided with a leader 32, or extension thereof. This leader 32 preferably extends to the outside of the housing or magazine I 8, where it may be grasped by the user of a camera to cause a movement of its associated layer from the position occupied by this layer when the layers are in their exposure relationship to the position occupied by this layer when the layers are in their processing relationship. During this movement of one layer, the other layer is preferably held stationary as by friction. This leader 32 is preferably connected to the photosensitive layer 30 and so related to the other layer 34 that after a predetermined movement of the leader, the other layer is engaged and moved along with the photosensitive layer.

The container 4!] for the liquid is preferably one which can, by the application of a mechanical stress thereto, be caused to release its contained liquid. A preferred type of container is one formed so that a mechanical stress applied thereto will cause one edge of the container to be opened to release the liquid from this edge. The container preferably extends transversely of the assemblage and has a relatively short longitudinal dimension with respect to the longitudinal dimension of the assemblage. A preferred container is formed of a single sheet of material which is impervious to the liquid. The sheet is folded upon itself and sealed on the ends and along the edge opposite the fold, the end seals being preferably stronger than the edge seal. The container is preferably stored in the magazine and is operatively associated with one of the layers, this layer preferably being a layer other than the photosensitive layer, and the container being preferably adhesively secured thereto.

The processing of the film assemblage may be accomplished by releasing the liquid from the container 4!), by the application of a mechanical stress thereto, as the film assemblage is held stationary, or preferably by moving the assemblage past a portion of the magazine adapted to apply a mechanical force to said assemblage as said assemblage moves with respect to this portion. The released liquid is also preferably spread by this portion of the magazine, during the processing movement, in a uniform thin layer between the photosensitive layer 30 and the other layer 34 so as to effect the uniform permeation of at least the photosensitive layer 30 by the liquid.

The processing portion of the magazine l6 preferably comprises means 42, defining a withdrawal or discharge opening therefrom. In the preferred modification of the invention there are provided a plurality of such assemblages and the magazine is preferably provided with a plurality of means defining a plurality of withdraw openings, through which the assemblages are adapted to be withdrawn, there being one opening for each assemblage. The means 42 defining a withdrawal opening preferably apply a mechanical stress to the assemblage, as it is withdrawn therethrough by its associated leader, this stress acting to release the liquid from the container and to spread the liquid throughout a predetermined portion of the film assemblage to cause the processing thereof.

It is desirable that the means defining the withdrawal opening from the magazine have a fourfold function, It should act as a light seal. It should be capable of releasing the liquid from the container. It should be able to spread the liquid uniformly. It should act to wipe the excess liquid from the film unit and trap this excess within the magazine. For the purposes of compactness of magazine construction, the above functions are preferably combined in a single coacting pair of members defining the withdrawal opening. However it is possible to provide a plurality of elements for accomplishing these functions without departing from the scope of the invention. As an example, there may be a means for releasing the liquid, a means for spreading the liquid and a means for forming a light seal,

all of these means being separate cooperating elements associated with the means defining the opening.

In Fig. 1, there is also shown a schematic representation of a camera If], having a magazine holder indicated at I 2. In the rear of the camera there is provided a cover M, which may be removed to permit introduction of one of the novel magazines l6 into the magazine holder. This magazine comprises a front portion [8 and a rear portion 20. Dividing these two portions is .a wall 22. In the front wall of the magazine there is provided an exposure opening .24, which permits exposure of the photosensitive layer .30, positioned at the front of the magazine. At the bottom rear portion of the maga ine there provided an opening 26.

A portio o one of the photo raphic assemblages is also shown in Fig. -2 where like numbers correspond to like elements of Fig. 1. In Fig. 2 the photosensitive layer has been moved to such an extent that the layers are almost in their processing relationship. Consideration of Fig. 2 along with Fig. l is helpful in an understanding of the invention. As can be seen from Fig. 1, these photosensitive layers .30 are stacked in parallel relationship in the front portion of the magazine, the foremost of these layers being in registry with the exposure Opening 24 so that it may be exposed by operating the usual camera shutter. Behind the stack of the photosensitive layers there is preferably provided a backing plate 23 and a spring 2| to hold the foremost photosensitive layer flat in the focal plane of the camera.

From the top edge of the photosensitive layer so there extends the leader 32, which may be an integral portion of the photosensitive layer, as shown in Fig. 2, or which may be astrip of paper or cloth secured to either the front or back top edge of the photosensitive layer. This leader 32 extends into the rear portion of the magazine through the whole length thereof and out through the opening 26 in the bottom of the magazine. The leader 32 is preferably made narrower than the photosensitive layer so as to provide a shoulder 3| (shown in Fig. 2) at the junction between the leader and the photosensitive layer.

Positioned in the rear portion of the magazine are a plurality of the other layers 34. In the preferred form of the film assemblage this other layer so is adapted to receive and carry a positive image of the latent negative image in the photosensitive layer and is referred to hereinafter as an image-carrying layer. It is desirable to limit the amount of movement of the photosensitive layer with respect to the other (imagecarrying) layer .34 so that when the photosensitive layer is moved from its exposure relation,- ship to its processing relationship, no further relative movement of these layers is permitted. For this purpose, there is provided a means associated with the image-carrying layer 34 adapted to engage a means associated with the leader 32 or the photosensitive layer 30. In a preferred way of formin the means on the image-carrying layer, the bottom edge thereof is bent back upon itself and there is provided a slit 38 (shown more clearly in Fig. 2) sufficiently wide to permit the leader 32 to pass therethrough but not sufficiently wide topermit the photosensitive layer 36 to pass therethrough. The engaging means associated with the leader or photosensitive layer preferably comprises the shoulder 3| at the junction between the photosensitive layer 31] and leader 3,2.

In the bottom rear portion .of the magazine there are provided the plurality of means defining withdrawal openings, which may be made in a number of ways and from a wide variety of materials. They can be formed of metal strips which can be placed under tension. They can be made of a metal stamping having springy tongues adapted to engage opposite outer surfaces of the composite film assemblage. In the preferred modification shown, they comprise a strip of metal 42 having a layer .of a compressible light-seal material, such as felt M, .on each side thereof. Numerous materials other than felt, such as velvet or bristles, can be utilized as .a light seal. In some cases the felt or velvet may serve only a light-seal function, while in other cases it may serve the function of breaking the container, spreading the liquid, .and trapping the excess liq.- uid. As can be seen from Fig. .1, each leader 32 extends between .a pair -.of these felt-covered metal strips, these strips defining an opening which is preferably slightly smaller than the combined thickness of an image-carrying layer, a container, and a photosensitive layer. These openings serve the function of permitting the withdrawal of the film units from the magazine, the felt as acts to prevent the access of light to the interior of the magazine, and the means 42-44 act to release the liquid composition from the eontainers, spread this liquid between the photosensitive layer and the image-carrying layer, and trap any excessliquid within the magazine.

In a preferred modification of the invention the photosensitive layer 30 is formed of a photosensitive silver halide such as an emulsion of a silver halide, or a mixed silver halide, or a silver mixed halide. This emulsion is preferably coated on an opaque paper base, which is relatively cheap, and may have an integral extension constituting the leader 32. In this way it is relatively simple to manufacture a one-piece combination photosensitive layer and leader. It is possible, however, to coat the photosensitive emulsion upon a suitable base material such as cloth, paper, or oellulosic plastic, or other materials suitable for carrying photosensitive emulsion. In these-latter instances the base which carries the photosensitive emulsion may or may not be integral with the leader 32. This leader may be made of paper, cloth, or cellulosic plastic, or other materials having sufiicient tensile strength to permit the use of the leader for withdrawing the photosensitive layer from the forward part of the magazine to the rear part of the magazine, and for withdrawing the film assemblage through the withdrawal opening. In some cases it is desirable to coat the back surface of the base for the photosensitive layer 3i! with wax or other material capable of imparting to this surface an anti-friction surface, thus permitting easier withdrawal of the photosensitive layer from the forward portion of the magazine.

The image-carrying layer 34 preferably comprises a sheet of opaque white paper known in the art as baryta paper, which preferably has either an opaque black paper backing or is treated on the back side thereof with a black coating to increase its opacity to actinic light. While baryta paper is a preferred material for the image-carrying layer, many other materials can be used. It can be made of paper, gelatin, regenerated cellulose, polyhydroxy alkanes such as polyvinyl alcohol, sodium alginate, certain of the cellulose ethers, such as methyl cellulose and their derivatives such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose or hydroxyethyl cellulose, carbohydrates such as gums or starch, and mixtures of these materials where the latter are compatible. Where this image-carrying layer is formed of transparent plastics of the general type mentioned above, the plastics may be coated on a paper base or may be so treated that the surface to be positioned adjacent the-photosensitive layer appears 'white by reflected light. They are also preferably provided with a backing which is opaque to actinic light. The portion 36 is preferably formed integrally with the image-carrying layer 34 and is bent upwardly during the process of manufacture. The slit 38 in the bent portion 36 is preferably formed so as to be just wide enough to permit the passage of the leader 32 therethrough. In some cases, particularly where the image-carrying layer 34 and upwardly bent tab 36 are formed of relatively thin paper, it has been found desirable to reinforce this portion of the image-carrying layer and also to reinforce the edges of the slit 38 by the use of cloth, paper, or metal inserts which prevent tearing thereof. In this connection it is also sometimes desirable to reinforce the junction between the shoulder 3| on the photosensitive layer 30 and the leader 32. The liquid container 40 is preferably formed of a paper-backed metal foil, coated on the inner surface thereof with a resin such as polyvinyl butyral which is inert to alkalis.

The liquid composition in the container 40 preferably comprises a developer such as hydroquinone, a preservative such as sodium sulfite, a film-forming substance such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, a silver halide solvent such as sodium thiosulfate, an alkali such as sodium hydroxide, and a sufficient quantity of water to carry the above-mentioned elements in solution. The magazine may be formed of metal, cardboard, or molded plastic. It is preferably of sumcient rigidity so that it may be handled as a unit, and should be opaque to actinic light. In the preferred method of assembly of the above-mentioned film elements and magazine, the desired number of photosensitive layers 30, with their associated leaders 32, are placed in the forward portion of the magazine, the leaders extending to the rear portion. The foremost leader is then threaded through the slit 38 in the foremost imagecarrying layer and is placed adjacent one of the felt-covered strips 42-44, the leader extending through the opening 26. Another strip 42-44 is placed adjacent the first leader, the next leader is threaded through a slit 38 in its associated image-carrying layer, and is then placed next to the last-mentioned strip 42-44. Another strip 42-44 is then placed next to this leader and the film pack is thus built up until the desired number of image-carrying layers have been placed therein. The rear wall 20 of the magazine is then placed in position and the magazine is ready for use. A spring element (not shown) may be placed between the last strip 42-44 and the wall of the magazine.

In the use of the preferred modification of the invention, which has been described in connection with the discussion of Figs. 1 and 2 above, the foremost photosensitive layer 30 in the magazine is exposed to actinic light by suitably operating the shutter mechanism of the camera Ill. The user of the camera then engages that portion of the leader 32, associated with this foremost photosensitive layer, which extends through the bottom of the magazine. By pulling this leader, the photosensitive layer 30 is pulled upwardly and over the wall 22 separating the two portions of the magazine, and moved to the rear of the rear portion and downwardly in this rear portion. As the photosensitive layer 30 moves downwardly adjacent the image-carrying layer 34, positioned in the rear of the magazine, it can be seen that the surface of the photosensitive layer which was closest to the camera lens is now adjacent the inner surface of the image-carrying layerv 34. Fig.2 shows the photosensitive layer 30 in a position where it has been moved from the front of the magazine to the rear portion and is moving downwardly in this rear portion. When the leader 32 is pulled downwardly somewhat more than is shown in Fig. 2, the shoulder 3| on the photosensitive layer engages the edges of the slit 38 and prevents further relative movement of the photosensitive layer 30 with respect to the image-carrying layer 34. Therefore, further movement of the leader 32 moves the whole film assemblage, comprising the image-carrying layer 34, the container 40, and the photosensitive layer 30, into and through the opening defined by the means comprising the pair of strips 42-44. As this film assemblage is pulled through this opening, the pressure on the container 49 increases to such an extent that the liquid contained therein is forced from the container and is discharged between the photosensitive layer 38 and the image-carrying layer 34. Further movement of the assemblage through the opening causes the strips 42-44 to spread this liquid composition in a uniform thin layer between the photosensitive layer and the image-carrying layer. As the as-- semblage is pulled completely through the opening, any liquid which is still being spread is wiped off the end of the composite assemblage and adheres to the strips 42-44. As a result of this spreading process, the photosensitive layer is laminated to the image-carrying layer by the viscous liquid composition. Since these two layers are preferably opaque to actinic light, at least on the outer surface thereof, no light can penetrate to the inner photosensitive surface. Therefore, this composite lamination may be pulled from the camera directly into daylight and the photographic process may continue unhampered by the presence of actinic light.

When the liquid layer exists between the exposed photosensitive layer and the image-carrying layer, the developer therein develops the exposed photosensitive material, the silver halide solvent forms soluble silver complexes with the undeveloped silver halide and transfers these soluble complexes to the surface of the image-carrying layer where they are converted to insoluble colloidal particles by reaction with unused portions of the developer. After this process of positive image-formation is completed, the photosensitive loyer is preferably stripped from the image-carryin layer to reveal the final positive image. This pricessing may require anywhere from a few secone: to several minutes, depending upon the chen'ical constituents involved.

There is thus provided a novel magazine with novel film assemblages, adaptable for use with a standard camera, which permits the production, in a preferred form of said assemblage, of a positive image of a subject image toward which said camera is directed. As can be seen, this invention provides substantially dry development which is accomplished by a single simple operation. No baths are needed and no special camera or devel oping apparatus is required. Any excess of the viscous liquid composition is wiped from the film unit by the means defining the withdrawal opening and is trapped within the disposable magazine.

While the above description of the invention has been limited to the preferred modification thereof, the present invention is capable of considerable variations within the broad scope thereof. In connection with the construction of the magazine, a preferred form. has been shown wherein the means which define the withdrawal openings are positioned in the bottom "of the rear portion thereof. It is contemplated that these withdrawa-l openings may be positioned at the top of the magazine, such construction depending upon the particular type. of camera with which the magazine is to be used. In either case, the operation. of the withdrawal openings is the same.

Thereare many other modifications possible for the means defining these withdrawal openings, and: it possible, to. provide a single witl'idrawal opening. through which all of the leaders 32 are threaded. This modification is not as desirable as the one. shown in Fig. 1, since a considerable unit area of pressure is required for releasing. the liquid composition from the container, and this pressure, in some cases, may be sufficiently high so as to create a considerable friction between the film element passing through the withdrawal opening and adjacent leaders extending through the opening. This friction may be sufiicient to cause a movement or" these other leaders. Such a modification of the invention is feasible, however; particularly where means are provided for increasing the resistance to withdrawal of the photosensitive layers from the forward portion of the magazine. Such a means can be a pin extending through a weakened portion in the lower edge of. the photosensitive layers.

Another modification oi the invention contemplates thebreaking of the container and the spreading of the liquid solely by closely spaced metal members which may or may not have a certain flexibility. It is also contemplated in another modification of the invention to provide a separate pull cord capable of ripping open the container. Such a cord can be pulled from outside the magazine or may be pulled as the result of movement of one or more of the elements of the film unit.

Since the novel magazine described above is preierably sold as a unit for insertion in a camera, it is preferred to provide a cover sheet which is positioned. in front of the foremost photosensitive layer 3!! for the purpose of preventing access of actinic light to the photosensitive layers when this magazine is handled in daylight. Such a layer is not shown but may be easily provided by placing an opaque piece of paper in front of the foremost layer 3i within the magazine. Preferably attached to this opaque layer is a leader similar to the leaders 32, so that this cover sheet may be withdrawn from the magazine after the magazine has been inserted in the camera.

While the assemblage has been described in connection with a preferred embodiment thereof, numerous other photosensitive materials may be utilized. The photosensitive layer may comprise a photosensitive material other than a silver halide and developers other than those mentioned above may be advantageously employed. It is also possible to utilize in the present invention processes wherein it is not desired to obtain a positive image. In such a. case the liquid composi tion in the container f-ii may comprise materials for developing or developing and fixing a negative with no emphasis on producing a positive image at the same time.

It is also. possible to utilize transfer processes for forming a visible image on the image carrying layer other than those discussed above. For instance, it is ieasible to utilize a liquid composition which includes no silver halide solvent and to include on the image-carrying layer substance capable of forming a positive image by reaction with unreacted portions of a developer utilized for developing the latent negative image inthephoto sensitive layer. This substance. may be an 0xi-- dizing agent which is capable of oxidizing portions of the developer which are unoxidized by reaction with the photosensitive material in the negative photosensitive layer. If the developer is a color-forming developer, a. positive image in terms of oxidized developer is obtained upon the image-carryin layer. It is equally possible to use a reducible metal salt on the image-carryinglayer. this salt being selectively reduced to form a positive image by unreacted portions of thedeveloper. In both of the above methods it' is desirable to provide some means for positively assuring selective reaction of the developer before the developer is made available for the positive image-forming reaction. A satisfactory means of accomplishing this purpose is the provision of a slowly permeable layer coated on the surface of the image-carrying layer.

The invention has been described inconnec tion with the use of a liquid composition which includes all of the elements necessary to process the film unit. This liquid composition may, however, include only water or an aqueous solutionof a film-forming material, and the other substances, such as hydroquinone, hypo, etc, may be coated in solid form on the image-carrying layer where they can be subsequently dissolved as the liquid composition is spread in' contact with the image-carrying layer. It is also possi-. ble to include some of the active ingredients in the liquid composition and to coat other ofthe active ingredients on the image-carrying layer, all of these modifications being-within the scope of the present invention.

In some cases it is desirable to leave a portion of the film unit between the means defining the withdrawal opening from the magazine. This is desirable in those cases wherein the rigidity of the means defining the opening is obtained partially from the casing of the magazine, that is, in those cases where the means defining the opening are in themselves quite flexible and their rigidity is obtained by being stacked in the opening of the magazine. In the modification of Fig. 1, the various leaders extendin through the withdrawal openings add a certain bulk to the total thickness of the felt-covered strips defining these openings and resist any bending movement which might occur due to the passage. of a film assemblage between an adjacent pairof felt-covered strips. If, during the processing. most of these leaders are removed, the effective pressure which can be applied to the last few film assemblages may be decreased. It is contemplated therefore to leave within. the with-. drawal opening a member having substantially the same thickness and compressibility as the leader 32 for the purpose of maintaining this structural rigidity. Such a member may be. a. portion of or attached to either the photosensitive layer or the image-carrying layer. This feature or the invention is shown at the top. of Fig. 2 wherein there is shown a member Ell-which may be assumed to be the topmost portion of the image-carrying layer 34. As can be, seen,.this member it has transversely extending shoulders as which impart to this member 50 a greater transverse dimension than the remainder thereof. When these shoulders are moved to the with; drawal openings, they cannot pass completely therethrough since. the exit from the. withdrawal opening, in this case, is made narrower than the total transverse dimension of that portion of the member encompassed by the shoulders. Therefore, this portion 48 of the member 5!] is held within the withdrawal opening and may be separated from the remainder of the assemblage by tearing along a weakened portion diagrammatically shown at 52. This member 58 may be, as mentioned above, either a portion of the image-carrying layer 34 or a portion of the photosensitive layer 30, or may be a separate member attached to one or the other of these two layers. It preferably has substantially the same thickness and compressibility as the leader 32 so that, as the individual film assemblages are withdrawn, the unused withdrawal openings neither gain nor lose their eifective size or structural rigidity. This modification of the invention may also have utility in preventing loss of light seal value of a compressible material such as felt due to its taking a permanent set under prolonged compression.

It is of course apparent that if the means defining the opening, such as the felt-covered strips 4244, have in themselves sufficient rigidity and do not depend upon the rigidity of the magazine walls, such a modification of the composite film unit is not necessary.

In another modification of the invention, a somewhat similar magazine is employed, the photosensitive layers being situated in the front portion and the image-carrying layers being in the rear portion thereof. In this case, however, the leaders are connected to the image-carrying layers and are slidably joined to the photosensitive layers. In this modification, the containers are preferably associated with the photosensitive layers. Since, in practicing the invention it is desirable to contact the liquid with the surface of the photosensitive emulsion which is first exposed to light, it is desirable to have the leader adjacent that surface of the photosensitive layer which is nearest the camera lens. This leader, therefore, should either be transparent, to permit exposure therethrough, or be positioned adjacent the edges of the photosensitive layer so as not to interfere with the exposure of the photosensitive layer. In this case, the withdrawal openings in the magazine are associated with the front portion thereof and the leaders of the various film assemblages are threaded through these openings.

This latter modification of the invention is shown schematically and diagrammatically in Figs. 3 and 4. In these figures, Fig. 3 is an exaggerated cross-sectional view of a magazine embodying a number of film assemblages showing this modification of the invention, while Fig. 4 is a front view of one of the assemblages showing in more detail one modification of the leader which may be utilized for accomplishing the purpose of the invention. In Fig. 3 there is schematically represented a camera 54 having a magazine holder 56 containing a magazine, generally represented by numeral 58. This magazine has a rear portion 57 and a front portion 59 with a wall 6| dividing these portions. Positioned in the front portion of the magazine are a plurality of photosensitive layers 60 having a bottom tab portion 66 in which there is provided a slit 68, shown more clearly in Fig. 4. In the rear portion of the magazine there are provided a plurality of image-carrying layers 62 which have connected to the top edge thereof leaders 64. Each of these leaders 64 may be a sheet of transparent plastic, such as a sheet of cellulose acetate, extending 12 through the slit 68 in the tab 66 of the photosensitive layer, or the leader may comprise a pair of leaders (as shown in Fig. 4) formed of paper, cloth, or other materials, extending through the slit, or pair of slits, 68 in the tab 66. In Fig. 4 the leader 64 is shown as having moved the image-carrying layer 62 partially from the rear portion of the magazine. On the lower foremost surface of each photosensitive layer there is preferably provided a container 10 having therein a liquid composition. This container may be secured to the photosensitive layers, such as by the use of suitable adhesives. The leader 64 extends between means 42-44 defining a withdrawal opening.

In a preferred modification of the invention shown in Figs. 3 and 4, the various elements may be formed of materials stated as being preferable for like elements of the embodiment of the invention shown in Figs. 1 and 2.

In the use of the modification of the invention shown in Figs. 3 and 4, the photosensitive layer 59 is exposed to a subject image by operating the shutter of the camera 54. The leader 54, associated with the foremost photosensitive layer, is then withdrawn by the user of the camera, thus moving the image-carrying layer from the rear portion of the magazine to the front portion, and in face-to-face engagement with the photosensitive layer 5!]. Further movement of the leader 64 brings the image-carrying layer into engagement with the edges of the slit 88 and causes the photosensitive layer, the container, and image-carrying layer to move downwardly and through the means defining the opening for the purpose of processing the film assemblage.

The processing of this type of film assemblage is similar to that mentioned in connection with the discussion of Figs. 1 and 2. The movement of the film assemblage through the means defining the opening acts to release the liquid composition from the container and to spread it in a uniform thin layer between the image-carrying layer and the photosensitive layer. As previously described, this layer of liquid composition develops the latent negative image and produces a positive image on the surface of the imagecarrying layer. After a predetermined time for the above processing to be completed, the photosensitive layer is stripped from the image-carrying layer so as to reveal the positive image.

Another modification of the invention, which is similar to that of Figs. 1 and 2 wherein the leaders are fixedly connected to the photosensitive layers, is shown in Fig. 5. This modification contemplates the use of containers which are staggered with relationship to each other in the rear portion of the magazine. This arrangement permits a thinner rear portion for the magazine, since the thickness of the various containers may be uniformly distributed throughout the whole length of the magazine rather than in one portion thereof. In this case each leader is preferably slidably connected to its associated container and each container is slidably mounted with respect to its associated image-carrying layer. The leader is also preferably slidably connected to the image-carrying layer.

In Fig. 5, where like numbers correspond to like elements of Figs. 1 and 2, there is provided the usual supply of photosensitive layers 30 in the front portion of the magazine. The photosensitive layers 30 are provided with a leader 32 which extends to the rear portion of the magazinc and through a slit 3!! in a tab 36 on, the bottom portion of the image-carrying layer 34. As can be seen, there are a plurality of containers 80 provided. in the rear portion of the magazine, these containers being staggered with respect to each other. These containers may be secured very lightly, if desired, to their respective image.- carrying layers, but such is not essential, the pressure of the various materials in the rear portion being ordinarily suificient to hold these containers in their staggered positions. Each container 80 has a tab 32 on a lower portion thereof, this tab having a slit 84 therein. The leader 32 is threaded through the slit 84 in the tab 82 and also extends through the slit 38 in the tab 36 of the image-carrying layer. Many materials are usable for these various elements of the film unit described above and are generally the same as those mentioned in connection with the description of corresponding elements in Figs. 1 and 2.

In the use of the invention shown in Fig. 5, the foremost photosensitive layer 30 is exposed to actinic light. The corresponding leader 32 is then pulled downwardly from the magazine, and, as a result of this movement, the photosensitive layer 38 is withdrawn from the forward portion of the magazine to the rear portion. As the shoulder 3| on the photosensitive layer moves downwardly in this rear portion, it first engages the edges of the slit 84-, associated with the container 80,- and moves the container 89 downwardly along with it. The, container and the shoulder 3! then engage the edges of the slit 38 in the tab 36 of the image-carrying layer, and thereafter the image-carrying layer moves as a' unit with the photosensitive layer 30 and the container 80. These elements are pulled through the means defining the opening of the bottom of the magazine, thus releasing the liquid composition from the container 80 and spreading it in a uniform thin layer between the. image-carrying layer 34 and the photosensitive layer 36 to accomplish the development of the latent negative image and the production of the positive image on the surface of theimage-carrying layer.

While the above modifications of the invenof the liquid composition in the subsequent film assemblages.

In some cases it may be desirable to utilize transparent photosensitive layers, such as those ordinarily sold in the form of out film, wherein the photosensitive emulsion is cast onto a transparent cellulosic film base, such as cellulose acetate. In such a modification of the invention it is desirable to provide some means for preventing the light used to expose the foremost photo sensitive layer in the magazine from penetrating through that photosensitive layer to the photo sensitive layers adjacent thereto. A preferred form of the invention for use with transtion have been. described in connection with the preferred forms thereof, it is equally possible to provide a plurality of the novel film elementsin a type of magazine which is not equipped with means at-the withdrawal point thereof for processing the film unit. In such a case the opening or openings may be so designed as only to form alight seal therefrom, and may not have such rigidity, with respect to the releasability of the liquid from the container, as to release this liquid when the film assemblage is. withdrawn from the magazine. In such a case, the camera is preferably provided with means for applying a mechanical stress to the film as semblage. Such a means may comprise a pair of pressure rollers through which the individual leaders may be fed, or may comprise a pair of pressure plates or a pair of felt-covered metal members, similar to those shown in the previous modification of the invention. This type of construction is perfectly feasible, but is not preferred, due to the fact that it usually requires. an excess of paper within the film assemblage to provide for some trapping of the excess liquid composition; otherwise, the pressure-applying means. if permanently attached to the camera, might become filled up withthe excess liquid composition,v thereby interfering with the uniform spreading parent photosensitive films is one wherein the leaders, utilized in drawing the photosensitive layers from the forward portion of the magazine to the rear portion of the magazine, also act as light-tight barriers between the various photosensitive layers. In such a case, each leader is slidably connected to its associated photosensitive layer so as to permit relative movement of the leader with respect to the photosensitive layer prior to the time when the photosensitive layer is engaged by the leader and moved to the rear portion of the magazine. Such a modification of the invention is shown in Figs. 6 and '7, Fig; 6 being a fragmentary diagrammatic sectional representation of this modification of the invention. as applied to the invention described in connection with the discussion of Figs. 1 and 2. Fig. 7 is a fragmentary front view of the preferred form of the invention shown in Fig. 6.

In a preferred form of this modification, as shown in Fig. 6, where like numbers correspond to like elements in Figs. 1 and 2, there is provided the usual magazine I6 having an exposure opening 25. In the front portion of the magazine are a plurality of transparent photosensitive layers 30. In the rear portion of the magazine there are a plurality of imagewarrying layers 3d. These image-carrying layers have associated therewith a plurality of containers 4G. Connecting the photosensitive layer with its associated image-carrying layer is a leader 32. This leader 32 has associated with it a portion 33 which is adapted to be positioned adjacent the face of the photosensitive layer 3t and to exclude actinic light from this photosensitive layer. The leader 32 -33 is threaded through a slit 31 near the top edge of the photosensitive layer 30. On the trailing edge of the leader there is provided a pair of shoulders 35 which make the effective transverse dimension of the leader 33 wider than the slit 31'. In the rear bottom portion of the magazine there are provided the usual felt-covered strips 42-44 defining the withdrawal opening through which the leader 32 extends.

Since the processing of a photographic film assemblage of the type described above ordinarily requires a certain amount of time for its completionbefore the reaction can proceed in the presence of actinic light, it is desirable to provide a dark chamber, positioned at the exit from the magazine, so that the processing reaction may take place free from any actinic' light which would. tend to spoil the positive image. This dark chamber 2i may be furnished as either a portion of the magazine or as part of the camera. As can be seen, each leader extending through the opening from the magazine passes through the length of the dark chamber and is threaded through a light-tight opening 39 in the" bottom. of the dark chamber.

The materials utilized in the construction of the modification described above are preferably similar to those mentioned in connection with corresponding elements of the invention described previously in the discussion of Figs. 1 and 2.

The portion 32 of the leader 32-33 may be made considerably narrower than the portion 33, or may be composed of several strips. Instead of providing the tab 36, having the slit 38 therein, a staple, having sufficient width to straddle the leader 32-33, may be driven through the bottom portion of the image-carrying layer 34, and the leader 32 may be threaded through this staple. Any other suitable means for forming a slidable connection between leader 3233 and the layers 34 and 39 may be equally provided.

In the use of this modification of the invention, when it is desired to expose the foremost photosensitive layer 30 in the magazine, the leader, associated therewith, is pulled downwardly by grasping a portion thereof extending from the dark chamber 21. This leader is pulled until the shoulders 35 on the trailing edge thereof engage the edges of the slit 3'! in the photosensitive layer 30. The photosensitive layer 30 is then exposed to a subject image and the leader is pulled downwardly again to move the photosensitive layer 30 from the forward portion of the magazine into engagement with the imagecarrying layer 34. When the image-carrying layer, the container, and the photosensitive layer are positioned in their processing relationship by this movement of the photosensitive layer, the assemblage is moved through the opening defined by the felt-covered strips 4244 and the liquid composition is released from the container 40 and spread between the photosensitive layer and the image-carrying layer. After the film assemblage has been left in the dark chamber 21 for a sufficient time to permit the imageforming reaction to be completed, it is removed therefrom, either by continuing the pulling of the leader, with its associated assemblage, through the light-tight opening 39, or by opening a door which may be provided in the dark chamber.

This modification of the invention is particularly adaptable for use in a copying device where no lens or shutter is involved. In such a use, an image to be copied may be placed adjacent the exposure opening 24. The portion 33 of the leader is removed from in front of the foremost photosensitive layer and this photosensitive layer is exposed to actinic light passing through the image to be copied. After a sufficient time for exposure, the source of actinic light is blocked off and the film assemblage is processed as above.

While portion 33 of the leader 32 has been shown as being positioned in front of its respective photosensitive layer, it is apparent that this leader may be positioned behind its associated photosensitive layer. In this case, the leader 32 would not be moved prior to exposure of its associated photosensitive layer.

As mentioned previously, means may be provided, separate from the withdrawal openings, for releasing the liquid from the container. In this case the withdrawal opening may be used for spreading the released liquid and trapping it within the magazine. One preferred type of releasing means, separate from the spreading means, is shown in Fig. 8 where like numbers correspond to like elements in Figs. 1 and 2. In the modification shown in this figure there is provided, in addition to the plurality of withdrawal openings, a means for applying a mechanical stress to a container before the container reaches the withdrawal opening. In a preferred type of stress-applying means there are provided a pair of pressure plates, at least one of which is movable towards the other for applying compression to a container positioned therebetween.

In the modification of the invention shown in Fig. 8 which is a fragmentary sectional View, there is provided the usual magazine l6, having an opening 26 in the bottom portion thereof. Positioned within the opening 26 are a plurality of felt-covered strips 42-44 defining a plurality of withdrawal openings therebetween. As can be seen, leaders 32 extend between adjacent strips 42-44. Positioned adjacent the withdrawal path of the film unit from the magazine are a pair of pressure-applyin members 8| and 83. In a preferred embodiment member BI is fixed and member 83 is movable toward member 8|. For moving member 83 a preferred means comprises an eccentric cam 85 which can be turned around pivot point 86 by means of a key or other device extending through the wall of the magazme.

In the use of the modification of the invention shown in Fig. 8, the leader 32 is pulled downwardly after exposure of the photosensitive layer 38. The leader is pulled a predetermined amount, which can be readily ascertained by an increase in resistance to pulling and/or a mark on the leader. Thus the film assemblage may be moved to the position shown in Fig. 8 with the container between the two pressure-applying members 8|, 83. The user of the camera then operates the key or other device to cause the member 83 to move toward member 8|. This applies a sufficient pressure to release the liquid from the container in the direction of the space between the exposed portion of the photosensitive layer and the image-carrying layer. The leader is then pulled again and the assemblage is withdrawn through the withdrawal opening Where the released liquid is spread in a uniform layer between layers 30 and 34.

In most of the preceding discussion of the invention the means for releasing the liquid composition has been shown as comprising the means defining the opening for withdrawal of the film unit and has comprised a pair of relatively flat members defining a plane of withdrawal therebetween. This type of withdrawal opening is preferred in most cases, particularly where the container for the liquid composition is so designed as to be readily ruptured as it is withdrawn through the opening. In some cases, however, it is desirable to provide the withdrawal opening in the form of a tortuous passage which is adapted to apply both a bending and a compressive stress upon the container as it is withdrawn through this opening. Such a modification of the invention is shown in Figs. 9 and 10. As will be apparent from a study of these tWo figures, this modification of the invention may take a number of various forms.

Referring now to Fig. 9, where like numbers correspond to like elements of Fig. 1, there is shown a fragmentary cross-sectional view of a modification of the invention wherein a tortuous withdrawal opening is provided for the film assemblage as it leaves the magazine. In Fig. 9 there is shown-a leader 32 adapted to be atspa m tached to a :photoesensitive.layer,tnot shown, this leader running :along the face of an image-carrying'layer 34 iand'through a slit formed in .the upturned bottom edgefifi of the image-carrying layer. There is also provided the usual container 40 for the liquid composition. The means defining the withdrawal opening for each individual ifilm assemblage .comprise, in .a preferred modificationof this iorm of the invention, a pair of metal plates 90 bentaroun'd axes parallel .to the transverse dimension of the container. 'As can be seen, these members :define a tortuous passage which'in itself affordsconsiderablelight seal to the -opening,.particularly when these metal members are treated so:as to'havea black nonreflecting surface thereon. For the additional purpose of providing more of a light seal, a strip 92 of compressiblematerial such as :felt may be secured at'the outer "ends of these members 90. This .feltstripiilz also "aidsinzwiping any-excess liquid composition from the sides-and end of the "film assemblage as it is withdrawn therepast.

In the use of the "modification Lof thelinvention shown in Fig. '9, as the 'film -assemblage moves through the withdrawal openinga compressive and bendingstress is applied to the container. thus releasing the sealed edges of thecontainer so as to permit the liquid to be dischargedtherefrom and spreadin "a uniformthin filmbetween the two layers of "the film assemblage. Any 18X- cess liquid composition being spreadfin the film assemblage, as the ends thereof :pass the :felt strip 92, is wiped off .thefilm :assemblageby the felt, thus leaving the end "and" edges of the film assemblage clean when itis disc'hargedfrom I the magazine.

'In forming a plurality ofzwithdrawal openings by means of the:.members 90, itis desired that these members ibeso spaced ".thatthe .distance therebetween is :about the thickness :of the film'unitito be drawn therethroughzat the container portions uof the "film assemblage, although where materials of 'theiifilm assemblage are very flexible, it m'ay 'be necessary to have :a closer spacing -:.for these members. It: is also desirable that the' adjacent curved "surfaces of the two members should cross-a "plane drawn between the entrance and :exit 'from the withdrawal opening so that'a'film assemblage drawn therethrough must be considerably deformed-in its passage through the opening. This deformation .of the film assemblage may, in itself,release the liquid from thecontain'er, or the pressure exerted on the container by'the curved surface around'which the film assemblage is deformed may increase the pressure within the film assemblage to such an extent that the liquid'is released from the container. This pressure, of course, will depend'to a certain extent upon the surface friction of thematerials-utilized in the filmassembl-age and the surface friction of the members 90, this pressure being low when the friction is low and high whenthefriction ishigh.

In the modification 1 of the invention of "Fig; 10 there is shown-another? form of the tortuous type of withdrawal opening described in connection with the discussion of Fig. 9 above. "In this modification'ofithe' invention, however,-the withdrawal openings aretdefined xbyspaced rods which are so positioned, with "respect' to the plane of withdrawal movement, as to cause the film .assemblage being withdrawn :to depart J from Ithis plane and to :be zsubjectedi toa bending stress -18 aroundsapressure applying'point. Referring specifically to Fig. 10 where like numbers correspond to like elements of Figs. land 9, there'is provided theusual leader 132 whichmay be secured toa photosensitive layer, not shown. There is also'provided an image-carryinglayer 34 having an-upturnedportion lit-through whichthe leader 32 extends. 'The image-carrying layeralsopreferably has-secured to-its surfaceacontainer Ml. For defihing'a tortuous withdrawal opening for therfilm assemblage there are providedia number of spaced rods 1%, there being two rows of these .rods lfillyaninner and an outer row, the film'aassemblage being adapted to'pass between a'p'air of rods Hill in'the'inner row and also between apairof rods It'll in'the outer row. Positioned between the two rows of 'rods IE0 is another *row of rods :NJZ. As can be seen, the rods zli02=are positioned so .as'to intersect a plane drawn between matching 'rp'airs of-rods in the inner-.and 'outer'rows. For the purpose of furnishing a light sealttotheabove structure, there is .provideda light-seal coating such as felt to each-of Ithe outerrods. This coating is schematically'shown at 104. This light seal I04 has thezadditional function, in. some cases, of acting 1 as-a trap'for .wipingtexcessiliquid from the film assemblage as' it passes .therethrough. '-In.the use .of the modification ofthe invention shownin Fig. 10,.as theifilm assemblage is withdrawntherethrough, it follows'the curved path taken by the leader .32. .Thus it is first bent around the middle rod H12, this rod-exerting a high unit 'pre'ssure upon the container 4!! as the containerapasses thereby. The film unit is then bentin an opposite direction around the outer rod' I00. At this point, however, the liquid'should have =1been released "from the container by the pressure exertedby rod I02 andthe secondbending'of the'afilm' unit primarily aids'in thespreading of the liquid composition. The unit pressure applied toithereleased liquid bythe rod Hi2 in mostccases "actsito spreadthisliquid as well as toreleaseit. While the-rods HlZ'haVe'been shown preferably as cylindrical, they may assume a numbercofshapes. In some cases, where a high unit pressure is desired'for releasing the liquid from the'containen the point of contactbetween the rod-zan'dithe fllm'unit may'be considerably sharpened so as to give this high concentration of pressure on the mm assemblage.

.The 'novelmagazine has been shown as a complete housing, which, except for the exposure opening, iscompletely'light-tight. This is a preferred form-of magazine. However, the rear portions of thema'gazine may be considerably cut down sosas toeffect a saving of materials in m'anutacturing the magazine. In this case, the light tightness may be supplied by the magazine holder on the camera. The magazine holder may also impart the"necessary'structural rigidity'to the "magazine, particularly at that portion containing'the means defining the withdrawal openmgs.

Wh'il'e the/various modifications 'of the invention' have been described in their preferred forms, i. e.,--as nove1 magazines and 'film assemblages for insertion in-a camera having a, lens, it is contemplated that the invention may be employed in other devices having no lens 'or shutter.

Since certain changes -may be made in the above product-without' departing from the scope of the"invention herein involved, it is'intended that'all matter contained in the above description orshown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

What is claimed is:

1. A photographic product comprising a photosensitive layer, another layer, a container releasably confining a liquid composition and associated with one of said layers, a magazine in which said layers and container are housed, means for withdrawing said layers from said magazine with said container between said layers, means defining an opening through which said layers may be withdrawn from said magazine, said withdrawing means extending through said opening, said means defining an opening being operative to apply a sufiicient mechanical stress to said liquid container to cause the release of said liquid as said container is withdrawn through said opening, and means associated with said means defining an opening for preventing the entrance of light to said magazine.

2. A photographic product comprising a photosensitive layer, another layer, a container releasably confining a liquid composition and associated with one of said layers, a magazine in which said layers and container are housed, means for withdrawing said layers from said magazine with said container between said layers, means defining an opening through which said layers may be withdrawn from said magazine, said withdrawing means extending through said opening, said means defining an opening being operative to apply a sufficient mechanical stress to said liquid container to cause the release of said liquid as said container is withdrawn through said opening, and means associated with said means defining an opening for preventing the entrance of light to said magazine, said last-named means being capable of wiping excess liquid from the edges of said layers as said layers are withdrawn through said openmg.

3. A photographic film pack comprising a first sheet including a photosensitive area, a second sheet, leader means, a container having therein a liquid composition, a housing holding said leader means, said container and said first and second sheets, means carried by said housing and defining an opening through which said leader means extends and through which said sheets may be drawn as they are withdrawn from said housing, said housing so holding said leader means, said container and said sheets that advancement of said leader means advances said sheets through said opening with said sheets in superposed position and with said container so positioned in advance of said photosensitive area as to release its liquid between said superposed sheets, the thickness of that portion of said two superposed sheets including said container being greater than the minimum separation between two surfaces of said opening-defining means, said surfaces being operative to apply a sufficient compression to said container to force said liquid from said container and spread said liquid be-' tween said two sheets upon movement of said container and said superposed sheets between said surfaces, and light-excluding means associated with said housing for preventing exposure of said photosensitive sheet.

4. A photographic device comprising, in combination, a magazine having a withdrawal passage, a sheet including a photosensitive layer, a second sheet, a container holding a liquid for processing said photosensitive layer, leader means extending through said passage and associated with said sheets, said magazine holding said sheets and said container so assembled therein that said sheets can be withdrawn by said leader means from said magazine through said passage in superposed relation with said container therebetween, means mounted in said magazine and comprising a pair of sheet-engaging surfaces, said means being located in the path of withdrawal of said sheets through said passage and said surfaces engaging the sheets as the same are withdrawn to apply a sufficient pressure thereto and to the container therebetween to cause the container to dispense its liquid contents between said sheets, and light-excluding means associated with said withdrawal passage for preventing exposure of said photosensitive layer.

5. A photographic film pack comprising a first sheet including a photosensitive area, a second sheet, a leader, a container having therein a liquid composition, a housing for holding said sheets, said photosensitive sheet being stored in one portion of said housing and said second sheet being stored in another portion of said housing, said leader extending between said portions, means in said housing defining a liquid releasing and liquid spreading station, said means comprising a pair of sheet-engaging surfaces between which said leader extends, said housing so positioning said leader, said container and said first and second sheets, that advancement of said leader advances said sheets between said surfaces with said sheets in superposed position and with said container so positioned in advance of said photosensitive area as to release its liquid between said superposed sheets, said surfaces of said liquid-releasing and said liquid-spreading means being operative to appply a sufficient compression to outer surfaces of said two superposed sheets to release said liquid from said container and to spread said released liquid between said two sheets upon movement of said sheets in superposition between said liquid releasing and spreading surfaces, and light-excluding means associated with said housing for preventing exposure of said photosensitive sheet.

6. The product of claim 5 wherein said leader is fixedly secured to one of said sheets and is slidably secured to the other of said sheets.

7. The product of claim 5 wherein said leader is slidably secured to said container.

8. The product of claim 5 wherein said container is secured to one of said sheets, said leader being slidably secured to that sheet to which said container is secured and being fixedly secured to the other sheet.

9. The product of claim 5 wherein said leader is slidably secured to both of said sheets.

10. The product of claim 5 wherein each of said two sheets includes a stratum opaque to light actinic to said photosensitive area, said strata being arranged to exclude actinic light from said photosensitive area when said two sheets are superposed.

11. A photographic product comprising a magazine, a plurality of composite photographic film assemblages, each of said film assemblages comprising a photosensitive layer, another layer and a container having therein a liquid composition, a plurality of elements positioned in said magazine, pairs of said elements defining a plurality of withdrawal passages, there being at least one withdrawal passage for each film assemblage, a portion of each film assemblage extending through its associated withdrawal passage, each said assemblage being so arranged that when enemas said assemblage is moved through its associated passage its container is positioned for release bf it's "contained liquid for spreading between said layers, each of said pairs of elements being or)- erative to apply a sufiicient mechanical stress to the liquid container of its associated assemblage to release said liquid upon movement of said assemblage through said opening, and displaceable, light-excluding means mounted in said magazine to prevent light from entering said magazine to expose said photosensitive layers.

12. A photographic product comprising a pinrality of composite photographic film "assemblages, each ofsai'd film'ass'emblages comprising a photosensitive layer, another layer and a container having therein a liquid composition, a magazine having an exposure opening therein and adapted to hold said photosensitive layers for photoexposure, a plurality of elements held by said magazine and associated with said assemblages, pairs of said elements defining a plurality of processing means, there being at least one processing means for each film assemblage, a portion of each film assemblage extending between the elements defining its associated processing means, each assemblage being so arranged that when said assemblage is moved between the elements of its associated processing means its container is positioned for releasing its contained liquid for spreading between said layers thereof, each of said pairs of elements being operative to apply a sufficient mechanical stress to its assemblage to release the liquid from the container of its associated assemblage and to spread said released liquid between said layers thereof upon movement of said assemblage between its pair of elements, and displaceable, light-excluding means mounted in said magazine to prevent light from entering said magazine to expose said photosensitive layers.

13. A photographic product comprising a first film unit, a second film unit, each film unit including a layer, a predetermined area of which is photosensitive, a leader connected to said photosensitive layer, a second layer, and a container releasably holding a processing liquid, 2. magazine holding the photosensitive layers in superposed relation, means defining an exposure aperture in said magazine through which the foremost of said superposed photosensitive layers may be exposed, an opaque shield removably held in said magazine and normally covering said exposure aperture, and a plurality of members mounted in said magazine, a portion of said first film unit, including one of the leaders thereof, extending between a first pair of said members, a portion of the second film unit, including one of the leaders thereof, extending between a second pair of said members, said film units being so arranged with respect to said magazine and said members that the layers of each film unit can be withdrawn between that pair of members between which its leader extends with the container of that unit located to release its liquid between said layers, each said pair of members being operative to apply a sufficient force to the film unit drawn therebetween to cause the container of said unit to release its contents and to effect a spreading of said contents between surfaces of said layers upon movement of the film unit therebetween.

14. In combination, a magazine, and a plurality of composite photographic film assemblages, each of said film assemblages comprising a first layer including a photosensitive area, a'second layer, a leader and a-cont'ainer having therein a liquid composition, said magazine comprising means definiii'gapliirality of processing openings, there being one processing openingfor each film assemblage, eachsaid means comprising a pair of surfaces between which theassociated'fiim assemblage is arranged to be moved during withdrawal thereof from said magazine, said first layer of each said film assemblage being stored in a first portion of said magazine and said second layer of each said assemblage being stored in a second .portion'of said magazine, said leader ofeach assemblage extending from one of said portions tothe other of said portions, each said leader being arranged to move one of said layers of its assemblage into superposition with the other of said layers of its assemblage with said container positioned therebetween, said leader of each of said film assemblages extending between the two surfaces of its associated opening-defining means, each pair of said surfaces being operative to apply a sufficient compression to its associated assemblage to spread said liquid between the superposed layers of the assemblage upon movement of said assemblage between said surfaces, and light-excluding means associated with said first portion of each said magazine for preventing premature exposure of said photosensitive areas.

15. The product of claim 14 wherein said leader of each assemblage is secured to said first layer and is arranged so as to slide said first layer from first portion of said magazine into said second portion thereof, said processing means being in said second portion of said magazine.

16. The product of claim 14 wherein said leader of each assemblage is secured to said second layer thereof and is arranged so as to slide said second layer from said second portion of said magazine into said first portion thereof, said processing means being in said first portion of said magazine.

17. The product of claim 14 wherein said leader of each assemblage is fixedly secured to one of the layers thereof and is slidably secured to the other layer thereof.

18. The product of claim 14 wherein said leader of each assemblage is slidably secured to the container of its assemblage.

19. The product of claim 14 wherein said container of each assemblage is secured to one of said layers'thereof, each said leader being slidably secured to that layer of its assemblage to which said container is secured and being fixedly secured .to the other layer of its assemblage.

20. The product of claim 14 wherein said leader of each assemblage is slidably secured to both layers thereof.

21. The product of claim 14 wherein said leader of each said assemblage is fixedly secured to said first layer, said leader being narrower than said first layer and passing through a slit in said second layer, said slit being narrower than said first layer, said container being secured to said second layer adjacent said slit and on that surface thereof along which said leader extends to said slit.

22. The product of claim 14 wherein one of said surfaces of each said opening-defining means comprises a compressible light-seal material.

23. The product of claim 3 wherein there are means associated with one of said surfaces of said opening-defining means for wiping excess liquid from edges of said sheets during advancement thereof between said surfaces.

23 24. The product of claim 11 wherein one element of adjacent pairs of said elements is common to both pairs.

EDWIN H. LAND.

REFERENCES CITED The following references are of record in the file of this patent:

UNITED STATES PATENTS Number Name Date 666,039 Thornton Jan. 15, 1901 916,325 Kelly Mar. 23, 1909 931,525 Thornton Aug. 17, 1909 Certificate of Correction Patent No. 2,495,111 January 17, 1950 EDWIN H. LAND It is hereby certified that errors appear in the printed specification of the above numbered patent requiring correction as follows:

Column 14, lines 12 and 13, for photo sensitive read photosensitive; column 20, line 37, for appply read apply; column 22, line 33, after the word from insert said;

and that the said Letters Patent should be read with these corrections therein that the same may conform to the record of the case in the Patent Oflice.

Signed and sealed this 9th day of May, A. D. 1950.

[sun] THOMAS F. MURPHY,

Assistant Gammissioner of Patents.

Certificate of Correction Patent No. 2,495,111 January 17, 1950 EDWIN H. LAND It is hereby certified that errors appear in the printed specification of the above numbered patent requiring correction as follows:

Column 14, lines 12 and 13, for photo sensitive read photosensitive; column 20 dline 37, for appply read apply; column 22, line 33, after the word from insert SlJ/t and that the said Letters Patent should be read with these corrections therein that the same may conform to the record of the case in the Patent Ofiice.

Signed and sealed this 9th day of May, A. D. 1950.

[sun] THOMAS F. MURPHY,

Assistant Oommissioner of Patents.

Images