GB1355152A - Photographic film and paper processing apparatus and method - Google Patents

Abstract

1355152 Photographic processing S NEEDLEMAN 2 June 1972 [2 July 1971] 25920/72 Heading G2X Photographic sheet material is processed by supporting it above an inclined platen and flowing processing solution on to the platen so that a laminar downward flow is provided between the sheet material and the platen. An apparatus for effecting this processing comprises an oblong platen, means for supporting the platen so that it presents an inclined surface in use, a channel situated at the upper end of the inclined surface and having walls extended transverse to the platen, means for holding the sheet material over the platen in a position overlying the channel, a chamber for applying processing solution communicating with the channel, a pump for forcing processing into the chamber and from the chamber into the channel whereby a layer of processing solution flows from the channel over the platen, and flow modifying means in the path of the liquid from the chamber whereby the flow over the platen is substantially laminar. As shown, platen 17 is mounted on a frame having a rocker base 37 and containing liquid 36 which stabilizes the apparatus and may be heated and used for storing containers (50), 51 of processing liquid. One or two photographic sheets 58, (58b) are held over platen 17 by a bar 21, (21b) or taping to a clamp (67) or (67'). Processing solution is pumped from a trough 26 to chamber 40 and then out through channel 38 on to platen 17. Laminar flow is achieved by deflector plates 61, Venturi tubes 55 having flared ends (57) and optionally a porous material in channel 38 or between channel 38 and chamber 40. A choke bar 34 is provided which when depressed causes processing liquid to flow over both sides of sheet 58 on platen 17. A second liquid (e.g. wash water) may also be introduced into chamber 40 from an outside source via a valve (39). In a modification Fig. 11 (not shown) the platen is curved and not planar.