EP0105833B1 - Device for the wet treatment of photosensitive sheets - Google Patents

Device for the wet treatment of photosensitive sheets Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0105833B1
EP0105833B1 EP83810346A EP83810346A EP0105833B1 EP 0105833 B1 EP0105833 B1 EP 0105833B1 EP 83810346 A EP83810346 A EP 83810346A EP 83810346 A EP83810346 A EP 83810346A EP 0105833 B1 EP0105833 B1 EP 0105833B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
dish
sheet
pins
liquid
processing
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired
Application number
EP83810346A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0105833A1 (en
Inventor
Leo Acklin
Marcel Rossier
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Cessione ilford AG
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Ciba Geigy AG
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Publication date
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Publication of EP0105833A1 publication Critical patent/EP0105833A1/en
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Publication of EP0105833B1 publication Critical patent/EP0105833B1/en
Expired legal-status Critical Current

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    • GPHYSICS
    • G03PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03DAPPARATUS FOR PROCESSING EXPOSED PHOTOGRAPHIC MATERIALS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR
    • G03D5/00Liquid processing apparatus in which no immersion is effected; Washing apparatus in which no immersion is effected
    • G03D5/04Liquid processing apparatus in which no immersion is effected; Washing apparatus in which no immersion is effected using liquid sprays
    • GPHYSICS
    • G03PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03DAPPARATUS FOR PROCESSING EXPOSED PHOTOGRAPHIC MATERIALS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR
    • G03D3/00Liquid processing apparatus involving immersion; Washing apparatus involving immersion
    • G03D3/02Details of liquid circulation

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device according to the preamble of patent claim 1.
  • FR-A-2 184 014 describes a device for the electrophoretic development of electrophotographic images with a toner liquid, in which the toner liquid is distributed between two plate-shaped electrodes with the aid of narrow slits and at high speed in the same direction as the non-light-sensitive electrophotographic to be inked Paper is moved. In this case, however, only dye particles which are suspended in the non-aqueous toner liquid have to be deposited at the electrically charged points on the paper.
  • the aim of the invention is to remedy the shortcomings indicated and to create a device which enables optimal, uniform development over the entire image field.
  • the device according to the invention generally consists of several, in particular three or four, stations connected in series.
  • stations are e.g. known from EP-A-0 038 780, all stations constructed identically.
  • the treatment bowl is denoted by 1 and the intermediate floor by 2.
  • the intermediate floor 2 stands with vertical end plates 4 or similar elements in the treatment bowl 1 and is supported in the middle part by spacers 5 on the bowl bottom 10.
  • the spacers 5 are preferably firmly connected on the one hand to the intermediate floor 2 or form an integral part of the intermediate floor.
  • At least one of the spacers is preferably anchored to the shell base 10 by means of a snap connection 6.
  • the leaves to be treated are transported by means of transport and nip roller pairs 71-72 and 73-74.
  • the respective upper roller 71 or 73 can be driven directly by a motor and the lower one is connected to the drive in a free-running manner or via an elastic member.
  • a gap 31 or 32 is left free between the shell side walls 11 and 12 running transversely to the transport direction T and the edges 21 and 22 of the intermediate floor 2.
  • the side wall 12 on the outlet side in the transport direction T is designed in the manner of a hollow profile as a liquid distributor 121 and underneath the intermediate floor 2 with a horizontal row of e.g. Provide 20 to 25 feed nozzles 120 with a width of 250 mm for the treatment liquid.
  • the sheet inlet side wall 11 is designed as an overflow for the liquid into a collecting channel 8. Also connected to the sheet outlet side shell side wall 12 is a collecting channel 9 which receives the liquid squeezed out of the continuous sheets by the pair of rollers 73/74.
  • the overall device comprises several, in particular three or four, stations connected in series. For example, for the silver color bleaching process, first a development station and then one or two bleaching stations and finally a fixing station. All stations are constructed identically. From the second treatment station (B), therefore, only the “beginning” of the treatment tray 1B with the front tray side wall 11B and the associated collecting channel 8B is shown.
  • all stations are built on a common base plate 1000, which continuously forms all floors 10, 10B etc. of the treatment trays 1, 1B etc. and all floors 80, 90, 80B etc. of the collecting channels 8, 9 and 8B etc.
  • roller pairs 71/72, 73/74 etc. each (73/74) except the first (71/72) and last (not shown) is assigned to two stations together.
  • a storage and buffer vessel 7 is arranged on the base plate 1000 below the shell 1 and the collecting channels 8 and 9, which is open at the top and firmly connected to the base plate with its upper edges, in particular by gluing or welding.
  • the volume ratio between the storage and buffer vessel 7 and the treatment bowl 1 is approximately 1.5 to 2.5, preferably approximately 1.8.
  • the collecting channels 8 and 9 have floor drains 81 and 91 through which the liquid can flow into the vessel 7.
  • a vent hole for the vessel 7 and with 100 drain holes for the treatment bowl 1 are designated.
  • the storage and buffer vessel 7 has side walls that converge in the shape of a funnel.
  • a line 60 leads from the lowest point of the vessel 7 to the suction side of a circulation pump 601, the pressure side of which is connected to the liquid distributor 121 via a thermostatically controllable heater 602 and a line 63.
  • a lockable floor outlet 700 is provided at the lowest point.
  • the stations following in the transport direction T each have the same arrangement, each with a buffer and storage vessel and a circulation pump, etc. Of these, only one wall of the vessel and its vent hole and one of the emptying holes of the treatment bowl are visible in FIG. 1 and are designated by 7B, 70B and 100B, respectively.
  • the buffer and storage vessels 7, 7B, etc. of all stations are formed by a single connected component which is glued or welded to the base plate 1000 with its upper edge surfaces.
  • the liquid is pressed into the treatment bowl 1 by means of the circulation pump 601 via the thermostatted heater 602 via the distributor 121 through the feed nozzles 120.
  • the liquid overflowing through the shell side walls 11 and 12 reaches the storage and buffer vessel 7 via the collecting channels 8, 9 and from there back to the pump 601.
  • the drainage openings 100 are dimensioned so narrow that only a small fraction is caused by them during operation of the amount fed through the nozzles 120.
  • an inflatable sack 603 is provided instead of the rigid storage and buffer vessel 7 of FIG. 1.
  • the floor drains 81 and 91 of the collecting channels 8 and 9 are each equipped with a connecting piece 810 or 910 for a hose or a pipeline.
  • a drain line 610 or 611 leads via an air barrier into the sack 603 which is arranged between the treatment tray 1 and the circulation pump 601.
  • the air barrier is formed by a floating ball valve 600. This valve only opens when there is enough liquid in the ball space so that the specifically lighter ball receives enough buoyancy to stand out from its sealing seat.
  • the sack 603 is connected to the connecting line 630 between the ball valve 600 and the pump 601 by means of a spur line 620.
  • the valve 600 prevents the pump 601 from sucking in air and thus the risk of foam formation. If the cross-sections of the suction lines 610 and 611 are chosen to be sufficiently large, the air barrier (ball valve 600) may be dispensed with.
  • the main advantage of using the inflatable bag 603 is that the liquid can be kept hermetically sealed in it. This avoids the very disadvantageous oxidation of the liquid or limits it to the periods when it is outside the sack. It is known that developer fluids in particular are very sensitive to oxidation.
  • the emptying holes 100 are connected to a separate lockable drain (not shown).
  • the circulation system in particular its pump 601 and the cross sections of the feed nozzles 120 are dimensioned such that the liquid flows into the treatment bowl at a flow rate of at least 0.5 m / sec., Preferably about 1 to 3 m / sec.
  • the feed nozzles 120 preferably have a diameter of approximately 1-2 mm, in particular 1.5 mm, and are arranged at a mutual spacing of 10-30 mm, in particular approximately 20 mm, in the lower quarter of the container wall.
  • the pump output and thus the inflow speed can preferably be regulated.
  • the sheet inlet side wall 11 of the treatment bowl 1 is shaped in such a way that liquid which flows against its lower part is deflected upward and in the opposite direction.
  • the wall 11 as a whole could be shaped accordingly, that is, it should be curved outwards.
  • a flat wall is provided and this is equipped with a horizontal nose-like deflection strip 110 above the level of the intermediate floor 2.
  • This bar can be glued or welded to the container wall or integrally formed with it.
  • the intermediate floor 2 is provided on its upper surface with pins 23. These pens should be as possible be slim and be distributed as stochastically as possible so that absolutely the same conditions are guaranteed for the liquid flowing over the upper surface of the mezzanine with the lowest possible flow resistance and no "preferred directions" arise.
  • the pins 23 have a shape which tapers slightly conically upwards.
  • the pins are preferably rounded at the tip.
  • the pins 23 are shortened such that the envelope surface H1 of their tips forms a kind of oblique contact surface with a contact angle of 15 ° to 30 °, preferably about 20 °.
  • the tip envelope surface H2 is horizontal.
  • the pins 23 keep a flow gap between the sheets and the intermediate base 2 free, so that the sheet passage gap D between the tips of the pins and the cover can be kept very narrow (approx. 1 to 3 mm). This defines the sheet path very precisely and it becomes prevents any arcing. This means that one of the most important prerequisites is fulfilled for the dwell time for each point of the sheet to be treated in the active part of the apparatus (in the developer solution) to be exactly the same.
  • the entrance and the exit of the passage gap D are formed by the corresponding upper edges of the side walls 11 and 12 and the opposite guide surfaces of the cover 3.
  • the edge of the shell 111 on the sheet inlet side is chamfered at an angle of 20 to 40 °, preferably approx.
  • the cover 3 has a guide surface 311 which is inclined downwards in the transport direction, which lies exactly opposite the oblique shell edge surface 111 and forms an angle of about 30 to 60 ° therewith and a visible transition 312 (flat edge ) having.
  • a wetting line that is as straight as possible and perpendicular to the transport direction T is achieved.
  • the sheet edge-side shell edge 122 is bevelled with an angle of approximately 20 to 60 °, preferably approximately 45 °, with rounded edges, increasing in the direction of the sheet exit (T).
  • the cover 3 has in the sheet outlet area a guide surface 322 which rises gently to the outside and ends in a recessed step 323. This step 323 lies between the outlet-side end of the intermediate floor 2 and the contact surface 122 of the shell wall 12. This arrangement terminates the contact between the bath and the sheet in a precisely defined straight line running perpendicular to the direction of transport and entrains liquid and air bubbles at least greatly reduced.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung gemäss Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1.The invention relates to a device according to the preamble of patent claim 1.

Die bislang bekanntgewordenen Vorrichtungen dieser Art konnten insbesondere den steigenden Anforderungen bezüglich der Homogenität der Entwicklung nicht vollständig genügen. Dieser Mangel beruht vor allem darauf, dass bei den bekannten Geräten die Strömung über die lichtempfindliche Schicht nicht ausreichend gleichmässig ist. So ist in der FR-A-2 184 014 ein Gerät zur elektrophoretischen Entwicklung elektrophotographischer Bilder mit einer Tonerflüssigkeit beschrieben, bei welcher die Tonerflüssigkeit mit Hilfe enger Schlitze zwischen zwei plattenförmigen Elektroden verteilt und mit hoher Geschwindigkeit in gleicher Richtung wie das einzufärbende, nicht lichtempfindliche elektrophotographische Papier bewegt wird. Es müssen hierbei aber nur Farbstoffpartikel, die in der nichtwässrigen Tonerflüssigkeit suspendiert sind, an den elektrisch geladenen Stellen des Papiers abgeschieden werden. Bei der Verarbeitung lichtempfindlicher, photographischer Materialien mit wässrigen Verarbeitungslösungen, bei der die Quellung der lichtempfindlichen Schicht eine wesentliche Rolle spielt, würden sich schon sehr geringe Schwankungen in der Weite der Verteilschlitz und Unterschiede in der Strömungsgeschwindigkeit der Verarbeitungsflüssigkeit als Streifen auf dem zu verarbeitenden Material abbilden.The devices of this type which have become known to date have been unable, in particular, to fully meet the increasing requirements with regard to the homogeneity of the development. This deficiency is primarily due to the fact that the flow over the light-sensitive layer is not sufficiently uniform in the known devices. FR-A-2 184 014 describes a device for the electrophoretic development of electrophotographic images with a toner liquid, in which the toner liquid is distributed between two plate-shaped electrodes with the aid of narrow slits and at high speed in the same direction as the non-light-sensitive electrophotographic to be inked Paper is moved. In this case, however, only dye particles which are suspended in the non-aqueous toner liquid have to be deposited at the electrically charged points on the paper. When processing light-sensitive, photographic materials with aqueous processing solutions, in which the swelling of the light-sensitive layer plays an important role, very small fluctuations in the width of the distribution slit and differences in the flow rate of the processing liquid would show up as strips on the material to be processed.

Ausserdem ist bei den bekannten Geräten das Problem, die sehr oxidationsempfindlichen Verarbeitungslösungen (Entwickler) im Kreislauf vor Oxidation zu schützen, nicht befriedigend gelöst.In addition, the problem of protecting the very oxidation-sensitive processing solutions (developers) from oxidation in the known devices is not satisfactorily solved.

Durch die Erfindung sollen die aufgezeigten Mängel beseitigt und eine Vorrichtung geschaffen werden, welche eine optimale gleichmässige Entwicklung über das gesamte Bildfeld ermöglicht.The aim of the invention is to remedy the shortcomings indicated and to create a device which enables optimal, uniform development over the entire image field.

Die gestellte Aufgabe wird im wesentlichen durch die im Kennzeichen des Anpruchs 1 beschriebenen Massnahmen gelöst. Weitere Optimierungen ergeben sich durch die in den weiteren Ansprüchen beschriebenen Modifikationen.The task is essentially solved by the measures described in the characterizing part of claim 1. Further optimizations result from the modifications described in the further claims.

Die erfindungsgemässe Vorrichtung besteht in der Regel aus mehreren, insbesondere drei oder vier hintereinandergeschalteten Stationen. Hierbei sind wie z.B. aus der EP-A-0 038 780 an sich bekannt, alle Stationen identisch aufgebaut.The device according to the invention generally consists of several, in particular three or four, stations connected in series. Here are e.g. known from EP-A-0 038 780, all stations constructed identically.

Im folgenden wird die Erfindung anhand der Figuren näher erläutert; es zeigen:

  • Fig. 1 ein Ausführungsbeispiel der Vorrichtung in einem Vertikalschnitt in Transportrichtung T der zu behandelnden Blätter,
  • Fig. 1A einen Längsschnitt in vergrössertem Massstab durch den Blatteinführungsbereich der Ausführungsform nach Fig. 1, der in dieser Figur mit IA bezeichnet ist,
  • Fig. 1B einen Längsschnitt in vergrössertem Massstab durch den mit IB bezeichneten Blattaustrittsbereich der Ausführungsform nach Fig. 1,
  • Fig. 2 die Behandlungsschale 1 mit dem Zwischenboden 2 der Fig. 1 in Aufsicht teilweise im Schnitt, und
  • Fig. 3 eine Detailvariante in schematischer Darstellung.
The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures; show it:
  • 1 shows an embodiment of the device in a vertical section in the transport direction T of the sheets to be treated,
  • 1A is a longitudinal section on an enlarged scale through the sheet insertion area of the embodiment according to FIG. 1, which is designated IA in this figure,
  • 1B shows a longitudinal section on an enlarged scale through the sheet exit area designated by IB of the embodiment according to FIG. 1,
  • Fig. 2, the treatment bowl 1 with the intermediate floor 2 of FIG. 1 in supervision partially in section, and
  • Fig. 3 shows a detailed variant in a schematic representation.

In den Figuren sind die Behandlungsschale mit 1 und der Zwischenboden mit 2 bezeichnet. Der Zwischenboden 2 steht mit senkrechten Endplatten 4 oder dgl. Elementen in der Behandlungsschale 1 und stützt sich im mittleren Teil durch Distanzstücke 5 am Schalenboden 10 ab. Die Distanzstücke 5 sind vorzugsweise einerseits mit dem Zwischenboden 2 fest verbunden oder bilden einen integralen Teil des Zwischenbodens. Vorzugsweise ist mindestens eines der Distanzstücke mittels einer Schnappverbindung 6 am Schalenboden 10 verankert. Hierdurch ist der Zwischenboden 2 auch bei starker Umströmung gegen unerwünschtes Abheben vom Schalenboden sicher fixiert.In the figures, the treatment bowl is denoted by 1 and the intermediate floor by 2. The intermediate floor 2 stands with vertical end plates 4 or similar elements in the treatment bowl 1 and is supported in the middle part by spacers 5 on the bowl bottom 10. The spacers 5 are preferably firmly connected on the one hand to the intermediate floor 2 or form an integral part of the intermediate floor. At least one of the spacers is preferably anchored to the shell base 10 by means of a snap connection 6. As a result, the intermediate base 2 is securely fixed against unwanted lifting off from the shell base even in the case of a strong flow.

Der Transport der zu behandelnden Blätter erfolgt mittels Transport und Quetschwalzenpaaren 71-72 und 73-74. Vorzugsweise ist dabei die jeweils obere Walze 71 bzw. 73 direkt motorisch antreibbar und die untere freilaufend oder über ein elastisches Glied mit dem Antrieb verbunden.The leaves to be treated are transported by means of transport and nip roller pairs 71-72 and 73-74. Preferably, the respective upper roller 71 or 73 can be driven directly by a motor and the lower one is connected to the drive in a free-running manner or via an elastic member.

Zwischen den quer zur Transportrichtung T verlaufenden Schalen-Seitenwänden 11 und 12 und den Rändern 21 und 22 des Zwischenbodens 2 ist je ein Spalt 31 bzw. 32 freigelassen. Die in Transportrichtung T auslaufseitige Seitenwand 12 ist nach Art eines Hohlprofils als Flüssigkeitsverteiler 121 ausgebildet und unterhalb des Zwischenbodens 2 mit einer horizontalen Reihe von z.B. 20 bis 25 Einspeisedüsen 120 auf 250 mm Breite für die Behandlungsflüssigkeit versehen. Die blatteinlaufseitige Seitenwand 11 ist als Überlauf für die Flüssigkeit in einen Sammelkanal 8 ausgebildet. An die blattauslaufseitige Schalen- Seitenwand 12 schliesst sich gleichfalls ein Sammelkanal 9 an, welcher die durch das Walzenpaar 73/74 aus den durchlaufenden Blättern ausgequetschte Flüssigkeit aufnimmt.A gap 31 or 32 is left free between the shell side walls 11 and 12 running transversely to the transport direction T and the edges 21 and 22 of the intermediate floor 2. The side wall 12 on the outlet side in the transport direction T is designed in the manner of a hollow profile as a liquid distributor 121 and underneath the intermediate floor 2 with a horizontal row of e.g. Provide 20 to 25 feed nozzles 120 with a width of 250 mm for the treatment liquid. The sheet inlet side wall 11 is designed as an overflow for the liquid into a collecting channel 8. Also connected to the sheet outlet side shell side wall 12 is a collecting channel 9 which receives the liquid squeezed out of the continuous sheets by the pair of rollers 73/74.

In den Figuren ist nur die erste Behandlungsstation vollständig dargestellt. Die Gesamtvorrichtung umfasst mehrere, insbesondere drei oder vier solche hintereinander geschaltete Stationen. Beispielsweise für das Silberfarbbleichverfahren als erste eine Entwicklungsstation und anschliessend eine oder zwei Bleichstationen und abschliessend eine Fixierstation. Alle Stationen sind identisch aufgebaut. Von der zweiten Behandlungsstation (B) ist daher nur der «Anfang» der Behandlungsschale 1B mit der vorderen Schalenseitenwand 11B und dem zugehörigen Sammelkanal 8B gezeigt.Only the first treatment station is shown in full in the figures. The overall device comprises several, in particular three or four, stations connected in series. For example, for the silver color bleaching process, first a development station and then one or two bleaching stations and finally a fixing station. All stations are constructed identically. From the second treatment station (B), therefore, only the “beginning” of the treatment tray 1B with the front tray side wall 11B and the associated collecting channel 8B is shown.

Darstellungsgemäss sind alle Stationen auf einer gemeinsamen Grundplatte 1000 aufgebaut, welche durchlaufend alle Böden 10, 10B usw. der Behandlungsschalen 1, 1B usw. und alle Böden 80, 90, 80B usw. der Sammelkanäle 8, 9 bzw. 8B usw. bildet.According to the illustration, all stations are built on a common base plate 1000, which continuously forms all floors 10, 10B etc. of the treatment trays 1, 1B etc. and all floors 80, 90, 80B etc. of the collecting channels 8, 9 and 8B etc.

Von den Walzenpaaren 71/72, 73/74 usw. ist jedes (73/74) bis auf das erste (71/72) und letzte (nicht dargestellt) zwei Stationen gemeinsam zugeordnet.Of the roller pairs 71/72, 73/74 etc., each (73/74) except the first (71/72) and last (not shown) is assigned to two stations together.

An der Grundplatte 1000 ist unterhalb der Schale 1 und derSammelkanäle 8 und 9 ein Vorrats-und Puffergefäss 7 angeordnet, welches oben offen und mit seinen oberen Rändern mit der Grundplatte insbesondere durch Kleben oder Schweissen fest verbunden ist. Das Volumenverhältnis zwischen dem Vorrats- und Puffergefäss 7 und der Behandlungsschale 1 beträgt etwa 1,5 bis 2,5, vorzugsweise etwa 1,8.A storage and buffer vessel 7 is arranged on the base plate 1000 below the shell 1 and the collecting channels 8 and 9, which is open at the top and firmly connected to the base plate with its upper edges, in particular by gluing or welding. The volume ratio between the storage and buffer vessel 7 and the treatment bowl 1 is approximately 1.5 to 2.5, preferably approximately 1.8.

Die Sammelkanäle 8 und 9 weisen Bodenabläufe 81 bzw. 91 auf, durch welche die Flüssigkeit in das Gefäss 7 abfliessen kann. Mit 70 ist ein Entlüftungsloch für das Gefäss 7 und mit 100 sind Entleerungslöcher für die Behandlungsschale 1 bezeichnet. Das Vorrats- und Puffergefäss 7 weist trichterförmig nach unten zusammenlaufende Seitenwände auf. Vom tiefsten Punkt des Gefässes 7 führt eine Leitung 60 zur Saugseite einer Umwälzpumpe 601, deren Druckseite über eine thermostatisch regelbare Heizung 602 und eine Leitung 63 mit dem Flüssigkeitsverteiler 121 verbunden ist. Ausserdem ist am tiefsten Punkt ein absperrbarer Bodenauslass 700 vorgesehen.The collecting channels 8 and 9 have floor drains 81 and 91 through which the liquid can flow into the vessel 7. With 70 a vent hole for the vessel 7 and with 100 drain holes for the treatment bowl 1 are designated. The storage and buffer vessel 7 has side walls that converge in the shape of a funnel. A line 60 leads from the lowest point of the vessel 7 to the suction side of a circulation pump 601, the pressure side of which is connected to the liquid distributor 121 via a thermostatically controllable heater 602 and a line 63. In addition, a lockable floor outlet 700 is provided at the lowest point.

Die in Transportrichtung T folgenden Stationen weisen wiederum jede eine gleiche Anordnung mit je einem Puffer- und Vorratsgefäss und je einer Umwälzpumpe usw. auf. Hiervon sind in Fig. 1 nur eine Wand des Gefässes sowie dessen Entlüftungsloch und eines der Entleerungslöcher der Behandlungsschale sichtbar und sinngemäss mit 7B, 70B bzw. 100B bezeichnet.The stations following in the transport direction T each have the same arrangement, each with a buffer and storage vessel and a circulation pump, etc. Of these, only one wall of the vessel and its vent hole and one of the emptying holes of the treatment bowl are visible in FIG. 1 and are designated by 7B, 70B and 100B, respectively.

Vorzugsweise sind analog zur gemeinsamen Grundplatte 1000 die Puffer- und Vorratsgefässe 7, 7B usw. aller Stationen durch ein einziges zusammenhängendes Bauteil gebildet, welches mit seinen oberen Randflächen mit der Grundplatte 1000 verklebt oder verschweisst ist.Analogously to the common base plate 1000, the buffer and storage vessels 7, 7B, etc. of all stations are formed by a single connected component which is glued or welded to the base plate 1000 with its upper edge surfaces.

Die Flüssigkeit wird mittels der Umwälzpumpe 601 über die thermostatisierte Heizung 602 via dem Verteiler 121 durch die Einspeisedüsen 120 in die Behandlungsschale 1 gedrückt. Die über die Schalenseitenwände 11 und 12 überlaufende Flüssigkeit gelangt via die Sammelkanäle 8, 9 in das Vorrats- und Puffergefäss 7 und von dort wiederum zurück zur Pumpe 601. Die Entleerungsöffnungen 100 sind so eng dimensioniert, dass während des Betriebes durch sie nur ein geringer Bruchteil der durch die Düsen 120 eingespeisten Menge abläuft.The liquid is pressed into the treatment bowl 1 by means of the circulation pump 601 via the thermostatted heater 602 via the distributor 121 through the feed nozzles 120. The liquid overflowing through the shell side walls 11 and 12 reaches the storage and buffer vessel 7 via the collecting channels 8, 9 and from there back to the pump 601. The drainage openings 100 are dimensioned so narrow that only a small fraction is caused by them during operation of the amount fed through the nozzles 120.

Gemäss der Detailvariante der Fig. 3 ist anstelle des starren Vorrats- und Puffergefässes 7 der Fig. 1 ein blähbarer Sack 603 vorgesehen. Hierzu sind die Bodenabläufe 81 und 91 des Sammelkanäle 8 bzw. 9 mit je einem Anschlusstutzen 810 bzw. 910 für einen Schlauch oder eine Rohrleitung ausgestaltet. Von den Rohrstutzen 810 und 910 führt je eine Abflussleitung 610 bzw. 611 über eine Luftsperre in den niveaumässig zwischen der Behandlungsschale 1 und der Umwälzpumpe 601 angeordneten Sack 603. Die Luftsperre ist darstellungsgemäss durch ein Schwimmkugelventil 600 gebildet. Dieses Ventil öffnet nur dann, wenn sich im Kugelraum genügend Flüssigkeit befindet, so dass die spezifisch leichtere Kugel genügend Auftrieb erhält, um sich von ihrem Dichtsitz abzuheben.According to the detailed variant of FIG. 3, an inflatable sack 603 is provided instead of the rigid storage and buffer vessel 7 of FIG. 1. For this purpose, the floor drains 81 and 91 of the collecting channels 8 and 9 are each equipped with a connecting piece 810 or 910 for a hose or a pipeline. From each of the pipe sockets 810 and 910, a drain line 610 or 611 leads via an air barrier into the sack 603 which is arranged between the treatment tray 1 and the circulation pump 601. As shown, the air barrier is formed by a floating ball valve 600. This valve only opens when there is enough liquid in the ball space so that the specifically lighter ball receives enough buoyancy to stand out from its sealing seat.

Der Sack 603 ist mittels einer Stichleitung 620 an die Verbindungsleitung 630 zwischen dem Kugelventil 600 und der Pumpe 601 angeschlossen. Das Ventil 600 verhindert, dass die Pumpe 601 Luft ansaugt, und damit die Gefahr der Schaumbildung. Falls die Querschnitte der Ansaugleitungen 610 und 611 genügend gross gewählt werden, kann unter Umständen auf die Luftsperre (Kugelventil 600) verzichtet werden.The sack 603 is connected to the connecting line 630 between the ball valve 600 and the pump 601 by means of a spur line 620. The valve 600 prevents the pump 601 from sucking in air and thus the risk of foam formation. If the cross-sections of the suction lines 610 and 611 are chosen to be sufficiently large, the air barrier (ball valve 600) may be dispensed with.

Die Verwendung des blähbaren Sackes 603 hat vor allem den Vorteil, dass in ihm die flüssigkeit hermetisch abgeschlossen aufbewahrt werden kann. Hierdurch wird die sehr nachteilige Oxidation der Flüssigkeit vermieden bzw. auf die Zeiträume beschränkt, wo sie sich ausserhalb des Sackes befindet. Bekanntlich sind insbesondere Entwicklerflüssigkeiten sehr oxidationsempfindlich.The main advantage of using the inflatable bag 603 is that the liquid can be kept hermetically sealed in it. This avoids the very disadvantageous oxidation of the liquid or limits it to the periods when it is outside the sack. It is known that developer fluids in particular are very sensitive to oxidation.

Bei Anwendung eines blähbaren Sackes 603 (Fig. 3) anstelle des starren Vorrats- und Puffergefässes 7 (Fig. 1) werden die Entleerungslöcher 100 (Fig. 1) an einen separaten absperrbaren Ablauf (nicht dargestellt) angeschlossen.When using an inflatable sack 603 (FIG. 3) instead of the rigid storage and buffer vessel 7 (FIG. 1), the emptying holes 100 (FIG. 1) are connected to a separate lockable drain (not shown).

Das Umwälzsystem, insbesondere dessen Pumpe 601 und die Querschnitte der Einspeisdüsen 120 sind so dimensioniert, dass die Flüssigkeit mit einer Strömungsgeschwindigkeit von mindestens 0,5 m/Sek., vorzugsweise etwa 1 bis 3 m/Sek., in die Behandlungsschale einströmt. Die Einspeisdüsen 120 weisen vorzugsweise einen Durchmesser von ca. 1-2 mm, insbesondere 1,5 mm auf und sind im gegenseitigen Abstand von 10-30 mm, insbesondere ca. 20 mm, im unteren Viertel der Behälterwand angeordnet. Vorzugsweise ist die Pumpenleistung und damit die Einströmgeschwindigkeit regelbar.The circulation system, in particular its pump 601 and the cross sections of the feed nozzles 120 are dimensioned such that the liquid flows into the treatment bowl at a flow rate of at least 0.5 m / sec., Preferably about 1 to 3 m / sec. The feed nozzles 120 preferably have a diameter of approximately 1-2 mm, in particular 1.5 mm, and are arranged at a mutual spacing of 10-30 mm, in particular approximately 20 mm, in the lower quarter of the container wall. The pump output and thus the inflow speed can preferably be regulated.

Die blatteinlaufseitige Seitenwand 11 der Behandlungsschale 1 ist so geformt, dass Flüssigkeit, welche an ihren unteren Teil anströmt, nach oben und in die entgegengesetzte Richtung umgelenkt wird. Hierzu könnte die Wand 11 als Ganzes entsprechend geformt, dass heisst nach aussen gewölbt sein. Darstellungsgemäss ist jedoch eine ebene Wand vorgesehen und diese oberhalb des Niveaus des Zwischenbodens 2 mit einer horizontalen nasenartigen Umlenkleiste 110 ausgestattet. Diese Leiste kann an der Behälterwand angeklebt oder angeschweisst oder mit dieser einstückig geformt sein.The sheet inlet side wall 11 of the treatment bowl 1 is shaped in such a way that liquid which flows against its lower part is deflected upward and in the opposite direction. For this purpose, the wall 11 as a whole could be shaped accordingly, that is, it should be curved outwards. As shown, however, a flat wall is provided and this is equipped with a horizontal nose-like deflection strip 110 above the level of the intermediate floor 2. This bar can be glued or welded to the container wall or integrally formed with it.

Infolge der durch die Einspeisdüsen 120 mit relativ hoher Geschwindigkeit eingespeisten Flüssigkeit herrscht unterhalb des Zwischenbodens 2 eine entgegen zur Transportrichtung T der Blätter gerichtete kräftige Strömung SU. Diese wird an der gegenüberliegenden Schalen-Seitenwand 11 nach oben und der grössere Teil oberhalb des Zwischenbodens in Transportrichtung T zurück zur Seitenwand 12 gelenkt. Der oben zurückströmende Teil ist durch den Pfeil SO symbolisiert. Ein Teil, welcher durch den Pfeil SUE gekennzeichnet ist, überläuft die Seitenwand 11. Die oberhalb des Zwischenbodens 2 in Transportrichtung T zurückströmende Flüssigkeit wird an der Seitenwand 12 in folge der starken Ejektorwirkung der aus den Einspeisdüsen 120 eingepressten Flüssigkeit nach unten gezogen und wiederum in Richtung auf die gegeüberliegende Seitenwand beschleunigt. Die Strömungsumlenkung von unten nach oben ist durch den Pfeil SU/SO symbolisiert und diejenige von oben nach unten sinngemäss durch den Pfeil SO/SU. Somit umströmt der grössere Teil der Flüssigkeit den Zwischenboden (darstellungsgemäss entgegen dem Uhrzeigersinn), wobei diese Strömung durch den überfliessenden und durch die Pumpe 601 rückgeförderten Flüssigkeitsstrom bzw. dessen Ejektorwirkung an den Düsen 120 erregt und kontinuierlich getrieben wird.As a result of the liquid which is fed in through the feed nozzles 120 at a relatively high speed, there is a strong flow SU below the intermediate floor 2 in the direction opposite to the transport direction T of the leaves. This is directed upwards on the opposite shell side wall 11 and the greater part above the intermediate floor in the transport direction T back to the side wall 12. The part flowing back at the top is symbolized by the arrow SO. A part, which is identified by the arrow SUE, overflows the side wall 11. The liquid flowing back above the intermediate base 2 in the transport direction T is pulled down on the side wall 12 due to the strong ejector effect of the liquid pressed in from the feed nozzles 120 and again in the direction accelerated to the opposite side wall. The flow deflection from bottom to top is symbolized by the arrow SU / SO and that from top to bottom by the arrow SO / SU. Thus, the greater part of the liquid flows around the intermediate floor (counterclockwise as shown), this flow being excited and continuously driven by the overflowing liquid flow or the ejector effect fed back by the pump 601 or its ejector effect.

Der Zwischenboden 2 ist auf seiner oberen Fläche mit Stiften 23 versehen. Diese Stifte sollen möglichst schlank geformt und möglichst stochastisch verteilt sein, so dass für die die obere Fläche des Zwischenbodens überströmende Flüssigkeit bei möglichst geringem Strömungswiderstand überall absolut gleiche Verhältnisse gewährleistet sind und keine «Vorzugsrichtungen» entstehen.The intermediate floor 2 is provided on its upper surface with pins 23. These pens should be as possible be slim and be distributed as stochastically as possible so that absolutely the same conditions are guaranteed for the liquid flowing over the upper surface of the mezzanine with the lowest possible flow resistance and no "preferred directions" arise.

Es wurde gefunden, dass diese Forderung durch die darstellungsgemässe (Fig. 2) Anordnung der Stifte 23 in einem quadratischen Raster, welcher in einem Winkel a (Fig. 2) von 16° ± 3° zur Durchlaufrichtung T der Blätter steht, gut erfüllt werden kann. Vorzugsweise beträgt bei einem mittleren Stiftdurchmesser von etwa 1 bis 2 mm und einer Stifthöhe H von etwa 3 bis 8 mm, insbesondere 4 bis 6 mm, die Rastperiode R etwa 5 bis 15 mm, insbesondere 6 bis 10 mm. Insbesondere aus herstellungstechnischen Gründen (einstückige Herstellung von Platte mit Stiften in Kunststoff-Spritz/Blas-Verfahrenl weisen die Stifte 22 eine sich nach oben schwach konisch verjüngende Form auf. Vorzugsweise sind die Stifte an der Spitze abgerundet.It has been found that this requirement is well met by the arrangement of the pins 23 according to the illustration (FIG. 2) in a square grid, which is at an angle a (FIG. 2) of 16 ° ± 3 ° to the direction of travel T of the sheets can. With an average pin diameter of approximately 1 to 2 mm and a pin height H of approximately 3 to 8 mm, in particular 4 to 6 mm, the latching period R is approximately 5 to 15 mm, in particular 6 to 10 mm. In particular for manufacturing reasons (one-piece production of a plate with pins in a plastic injection / blow molding process), the pins 22 have a shape which tapers slightly conically upwards. The pins are preferably rounded at the tip.

im einlaufseitigen Teil des Zwischenbodens 2 sind die Stifte 23 so verkürzt, dass die Hüllfläche H1 ihrer Spitzen eine Art schräge Anlauffläche mit einem Anlaufwinkel von 15° bis 30°, vorzugsweise etwa 20° bildet. Im übrigen Teil ist die Spitzenhüllfläche H2 horizontal. Die Spitzen der Stifte 23 bilden zusammen mit unteren Führungsflächen eines die gesamte Behandlungsschale 1 übergreifenden Deckels 3 den Durchlaufspalt D für die Blätter, welchen diese mit der Emulsionsschicht nach unten durchlaufen. Die Stifte 23 halten einen Durchströmspalt zwischen Blättern und dem Zwischenboden 2 frei, so dass der Blattdurchlaufspalt D zwischen den Stiftspitzen und dem Deckel sehr eng (ca. 1 bis 3 mm) gehalten werden kann.-Hierdurch ist der Blattweg sehr präzis definiert und es wird jede Bogenbildung verhindert. Somit ist eine der wichtigsten Voraussetzungen dafür erfüllt, dass die Verweilzeit für jeden Punkt des zu behandelnden Blattes im aktiven Teil des Apparates (in der Entwicklerlösung) exakt gleich ist.In the inlet-side part of the mezzanine floor 2, the pins 23 are shortened such that the envelope surface H1 of their tips forms a kind of oblique contact surface with a contact angle of 15 ° to 30 °, preferably about 20 °. In the remaining part, the tip envelope surface H2 is horizontal. The tips of the pins 23, together with lower guide surfaces of a cover 3 which extends over the entire treatment dish 1, form the passage gap D for the sheets, through which they pass with the emulsion layer facing downward. The pins 23 keep a flow gap between the sheets and the intermediate base 2 free, so that the sheet passage gap D between the tips of the pins and the cover can be kept very narrow (approx. 1 to 3 mm). This defines the sheet path very precisely and it becomes prevents any arcing. This means that one of the most important prerequisites is fulfilled for the dwell time for each point of the sheet to be treated in the active part of the apparatus (in the developer solution) to be exactly the same.

Der Eingang und der Ausgang des Durchlaufspaltes D, im folgenden als Blatteinlauf- bzw. Blattauslaufspalt bezeichnet, sind durch die entsprechenden oberen Ränder der Seitenwände 11 bzw. 12 und die gegenüberliegenden Führungsflächen des Deckels 3 gebildet. Hierbei ist der blatteinlaufseitige Schalenrand 111 in einem Winkel von 20 bis 40°, vorzugsweise ca. 30°, nach innen ansteigend abgeschrägt. Der Deckel 3 weist im Blatteinlaufspalt eine in Transportrichtung nach unten geneigte Führungsfläche 311 auf, welche der schrägen Schalenrandfläche 111 genau gegenüberliegt und mit dieser einen Winkel von etwa 30 bis 60° einschliesst und gegenüber der anschliessenden flacheren Führungsfläche des Deckels einen sichtbaren Übergang 312 (flache Kante) aufweist. Hierdurch wird eine möglichst gerade und senkrecht zur Transportrichtung T verlaufende Benetzungslinie erreicht.The entrance and the exit of the passage gap D, hereinafter referred to as sheet inlet or sheet outlet gap, are formed by the corresponding upper edges of the side walls 11 and 12 and the opposite guide surfaces of the cover 3. In this case, the edge of the shell 111 on the sheet inlet side is chamfered at an angle of 20 to 40 °, preferably approx. In the sheet inlet gap, the cover 3 has a guide surface 311 which is inclined downwards in the transport direction, which lies exactly opposite the oblique shell edge surface 111 and forms an angle of about 30 to 60 ° therewith and a visible transition 312 (flat edge ) having. As a result, a wetting line that is as straight as possible and perpendicular to the transport direction T is achieved.

Der blattauslaufseitige Schalenrand 122 ist analog in Blattauslaufrichtung (T) ansteigend in einem Winkel von etwa 20 bis 60°, vorzugsweise ca. 45° mit gerundeten Kanten abgeschrägt. Der Deckel 3 weist im Blattauslaufbereich eine nach aussen flach ansteigende Führungsfläche 322 auf, welche in einer zurückspringenden Stufe 323 endet. Diese Stufe 323 liegt zwischen dem auslaufseitigen Ende des Zwischenbodens 2 und der Anlauffläche 122 der Schalenwand 12. Durch diese Anordnung wird der Kontakt zwischen dem Bad und dem Blatt in einer genau definierten, senkrecht zur Transportrichtung verlaufenden geraden Linie beendet und das Mitschleppen von Flüssigkeit und Luftblasen zumindest stark reduziert.The sheet edge-side shell edge 122 is bevelled with an angle of approximately 20 to 60 °, preferably approximately 45 °, with rounded edges, increasing in the direction of the sheet exit (T). The cover 3 has in the sheet outlet area a guide surface 322 which rises gently to the outside and ends in a recessed step 323. This step 323 lies between the outlet-side end of the intermediate floor 2 and the contact surface 122 of the shell wall 12. This arrangement terminates the contact between the bath and the sheet in a precisely defined straight line running perpendicular to the direction of transport and entrains liquid and air bubbles at least greatly reduced.

Zur Funktionsweise des Gerätes bleibt nachzutragen, dass die Blätter zwischen den Transport- und Quetschwalzen 71-72 eingeklemmt von diesen zunächst durch den Durchlaufspalt D geschoben und dann von den folgenden Walzen 73-74 erfasst und gezogen werden. Alle Walzenpaare sind absolut synchron angetrieben.

Figure imgb0001
Figure imgb0002
Regarding the functioning of the device, it must be added that the sheets, clamped between the transport and nip rollers 71-72, are first pushed by them through the passage gap D and then gripped and pulled by the following rollers 73-74. All roller pairs are driven absolutely synchronously.
Figure imgb0001
Figure imgb0002

Claims (22)

1. Apparatus for the liquid-processing of light- sensitive sheet material, with a substantially rectangular processing dish (1), with means containing a circulating pump (601) for feeding and withdrawing processing liquid to or respectively from this dish as well as means for conveying the sheets through the dish, characterised in that an intermediate bottom (2) is arranged in the dish (1), a respective gap (31, 32) being left free between the side walls (11, 12) of the dish which extend transverse to the direction (T) of sheet conveyance and the intermediate bottom; that the dish is provided below this intermediate bottom in the side wall (12) in the sheet outlet side which extends vertical to the conveying direction (T) of the sheets with a horizontal row of feed nozzles (120) for the processing liquid, and that the opposite side wall of the dish is so shaped that the processing liquid flowing upwards in the gap (31) between it and the sheet inlet side end of the intermediate bottom has a flow component (50) in the direction towards the opposite side wall (12).
2. Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterised in that sheet inlet side wall (11) of the dish has an inwardly pointed nose-like projection for imparting the said flow component in the direction towards the opposite side wall, which projection extends above the level of said intermediate bottom (2) parallel thereto at least across the entire width thereof.
3. Apparatus according to Claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the flow cross-section of the feed nozzles (120) and the transport capacity of the circulating pump (601) are so related to one another that the inflow velocity of the liquid is at least 0.5 m/sec., preferably about 1 to 3 m/sec.
4. Apparatus according to one of the foregoing Claims, characterised in that the intermediate bottom (2) is provided on its upper face with a pin board- like raster of slender pins.
5. Apparatus according to Claim 4, characterised in that the raster interval (R) is about 5 to 15 mm, preferably 6 to 10 mm.
6. Apparatus according to Claim 4 or 5, characterised in that the height of the pins (23) is about 3 to 8 mm, preferably 4 to 6 mm.
7. Apparatus according to one of Claims 4 to 6, characterised in that the pins (23) have a conical taper in upward direction and at the base a diameter of from about 1 to 2 mm.
8. Apparatus according to one of Claims 4 to 7, characterised in that the tips (23) of the pins are rounded.
9. Apparatus according to one of Claims 4 to 8, characterised in that the pins (23) and the intermediate bottom (2) are formed integral.
10. Apparatus according to Claim 9, characterised in that the intermediate bottom (2) and the pins (23) are made integral from plastics by injection or blow moulding.
11. Apparatus according to one of Claims 4 to 10, characterised in that the raster is a square one.
12. Apparatus according to Claim 11, characterised in that the raster runs at an angle (a) of 16° ± 3° to the direction (T) of sheet conveyance.
13. Apparatus according to one of Claims 4 to 12, characterised in that along a predetermined stretch of the sheet inlet the pins (23) at the forward edge of the intermediate bottom (21) are continuously increasingly shortened, so that starting from this edge of the intermediate bottom the tips of the pins (23) lie in a shallow obliquely rising enveloping surface, whereby preferably this enveloping surface includes with the horizontal an angle of 15° ° to 30 °, especially about 20°.
14. Apparatus according to one of the foregoing Claims, characterised in that the sheet inlet gap and sheet outlet gap are each formed at the bottom by a corresponding wall of the dish (1) and at the top by lower guide surfaces of a lid (3) which overlaps the whole dish, whereby for establishing wetting lines which are as straight as possible and vertical to the sheet conveying direction (T) the rim (111) of the sheet inlet side of the dish is sloped increasingly to the inside at an angle to the horizontal of 20° to 40°, preferably about 30°.
15. Apparatus according to Claim 14, characterised in that at the sheet entry end the lid has a plane lower guide surface which is located opposite the bevelled rim of the edge surface (111) of the dish and which slopes downwardly at a shallow angle in the direction of sheet coveyance, including with the edge surface of the dish an angle of about 20 to 60 and having a visible transition (312) opposite an adjacent less inclined guide surface of the lid.
16. Apparatus according to Claim 14, characterised in that the sheet outlet side rim (122) of the dish is bevelled to slope upwardly and outwardly at an angle of from 20° to 60°, preferably 45°.
17. Apparatus according to Claim 16, characterised in that, at the sheet outlet region, the lid has a lower guide surface (322) which is slanted at a small angle upwardly in the direction of sheet conveyance and between the pin raster (23) and the sheet outleet side rim (122) of the dish ends in an upwardly recessed step (323).
18. Apparatus with a plurality of stations for the successive processing of sheet material with different processing liquids, characterised in that each station is constructed according to one or moore of the foregoing claims.
19. Apparatus according to Claim 18, characterised in that liquid-collecting channels (8, 9) are arranged along the liquid overflow edges (111) of the dish (1) and under the conveying means (conveying and squeezing roller pairs 71/ 72, 73/ 74), and thatthe processing dishes (1, 1B, etc) and the collecting channels (8, 8B, 9, etc) of all stations are mounted on a common base plate (1000) which constitutes the bottoms (10, 10B, etc) of all processing dishes and collecting channels.
20. Apparatus according to Claim 19, characterised in that on the underside of the base plate (1000) of each processing dish (1, 1B, etc) a respective upwardly open storage and buffer vessel (7, 7B, etc) is fixed, preferably sealingly, whereby the collecting channels have bottom openings (81, 81B, 91, etc) leading into this vessel.
21. Apparatus according to Claim 20, characterised in that the storage and buffer vessels (7, 7B, etc) of all stations are formed by a common building element.
22. Apparatus according to one of Claims 1 to 18 characterised in that a storage container in the form of an inflatable bag (603) is inserted in the liquid circuit of each station and is arranged at an appropriate level between the processing dish (1) and the circulating pump (601), whereby pereferably in the return pipe (610/611) above the inflatable sack an air- blocking element, especially a floating-ball valve (600), is built in.
EP83810346A 1982-10-05 1983-08-03 Device for the wet treatment of photosensitive sheets Expired EP0105833B1 (en)

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CH584782 1982-10-05
CH5847/82 1982-10-05

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EP0105833B1 true EP0105833B1 (en) 1986-06-25

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US4647173A (en) * 1985-02-12 1987-03-03 Ciba-Geigy Ag Apparatus for the liquid-processing of light-sensitive sheet material
US4845019A (en) * 1986-06-06 1989-07-04 Visicon Laboratories, Inc. Method for exposing and developing photosensitive materials
GB9114090D0 (en) * 1991-06-29 1991-08-14 Kodak Ltd Photographic processing apparatus
US5411840A (en) * 1992-12-21 1995-05-02 Eastman Kodak Company Low volume processing for establishing boundary conditions to control developer diffusion in color photographic elements
US5381203A (en) * 1993-05-03 1995-01-10 Eastman Kodak Company Textured surface with canted channels for an automatic tray processor
US5353086A (en) * 1993-05-03 1994-10-04 Eastman Kodak Company Textured surface with canted channels for an automatic tray processor
US5822645A (en) * 1997-04-17 1998-10-13 Eastman Kodak Company Photographic processor
GB9821178D0 (en) * 1998-09-30 1998-11-25 Agfa Geveart Limited Processing method and apparatus for imaged elements
US20100224257A1 (en) 2009-03-09 2010-09-09 Kalman Shamir Reducing foam formation

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US3344729A (en) * 1964-06-22 1967-10-03 Itek Corp Photographic sheet material processing apparatus
US3369918A (en) * 1964-10-28 1968-02-20 Xerox Corp Development of latent electrostatic images with crested waves of liquid developer
US3372630A (en) * 1965-06-04 1968-03-12 Houston Schmidt Ltd Apparatus for processing light sensitive film
DE1296521B (en) * 1967-06-30 1969-05-29 Agfa Gevaert Ag Developing device for photographic support
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US3687050A (en) * 1970-08-14 1972-08-29 Eastman Kodak Co Package for dispensing and disposing of processing liquids in a developing apparatus
FR2176715B2 (en) * 1972-03-22 1977-04-22 Agfa Gevaert Ag
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DE3017946C2 (en) * 1980-05-10 1986-06-12 Agfa-Gevaert Ag, 5090 Leverkusen Apparatus for the wet treatment of photographic substrates

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CA1198924A (en) 1986-01-07
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JPS5969756A (en) 1984-04-20
EP0105833A1 (en) 1984-04-18

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