MXPA00002434A - Dye transfer apparatus and method for processing color motion picture film - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for producing prints of a professional motion picture film by dye transfer, including a roll tank (42), a pin belt (70), and a transfer cabinet (48). A dye imbibed matrix film (14) and blank film (12) are superimposed together in a predetermined registration by rollers (56-64) in the roll tank, creating a two-film sandwich (16), which is directed onto the pin belt (70). The pin belt (70) includes a plurality of pins (71) traveling in an orbital path (72), which detachably engage the two-film sandwich (16), thereby directing the two-film sandwich (16) along a portion of the orbital path (72). The transfer cabinet (48) includes a plurality of relatively large diameter rollers (86-92) in a predetermined relationship to one another, and an elevator mechanism for adjusting the predetermined relationship. The rollers (86-92) define a substantially rectilinear film path along which the two-film sandwich (16) from the pin belt (70) is directed. The film path (94) has a length sufficient to allow complete dye transfer to occur at high drive speeds within the transfer cabinet (48). The two-film sandwich (16) is then stripped apart. The blank film (12) may be directed through three dye transfer systems in a continuous path, a single color dye being applied by each system to produce a three color finished print.

Description

IMPROVED APPARATUS OF TRANSFER OF COLORING AND METHOD FOR DEVELOPING A CINEMATOGRAPHIC FILM OF COLORS FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to the production of films and more particularly to a system and method for producing printed copies of cinematographic films by dye transfer.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In the field of professional cinematography, it is necessary in many circumstances that two stretches of films be maintained in fair and exact correspondence with one another throughout the long continuous path. For example, in the production of a dye transfer print of a cinematographic film from photographic matrices impregnated with three dyes, it is essential that the dye image of each individual matrix is transferred to a receiving film in almost perfect correspondence with another in three consecutive steps on a continuous machine. In addition, it is also essential that each individual record is transferred completely from the matrix film or the receiving film substantially with no movement of a film one relative to '? ße¿ £ £ j? jÉ another, until the moment in which the entire image of each individual matrix has been transferred to the common receiver. Previously, the matrix and receiver films were placed in intimate contact with one another through a multi-stage settling mechanism generally known as a roller tank. While they were in intimate contact with each other, the two films were also seated on a strip of stainless steel, known as a band of pins. The band of pins typically moved on an orbital path that climbed around and between two and more drums or wheels. The perforations or holes for teeth of the superimposed films were placed on silver alloy pins protruding above the flat strip of stainless steel. Both films remained firmly seated on the band of pins for the duration of time that was needed for the transfer of complete dye from the matrix to the receptor, usually about 35 seconds. For example, the patent of E.U.A. No. 2,475,319 discloses a conventional dye transfer apparatus with band of pins. The patent of E.U.A. No. 5,750,567 discloses a dye transfer apparatus including rotatable plate cylinders on which matrix films and a series of rollers are wound to successively contact the matrix films with a receiving film to complete the dye transfer. Due to the time required for complete dye transfer, such pin bands generally had a peripheral length of approximately 75 meters and were operated at speeds of approximately 120 meters per minute. One of the difficulties resulting from using such long webs is to achieve and maintain the exact pin tolerances necessary to maintain the precise correspondence needed to produce high quality prints. In addition, the repair and replacement of these long bands were truly expensive and difficult.

The machinery and methods used for dye transfer from colored film prints have remained substantially unchanged since their original development in the 1920s and 1930s. To achieve the fastest production capacity needed to meet the demand for the quantities For more prints than is required today, the speed of operation of a dye transfer machine should be increased. A larger apparatus requiring a longer pin band, however, would only increase the maintenance problems of the exact pin tolerances necessary to maintain accurate correspondence during dye transfer. The space required for each apparatus and the cost to develop and maintain the band of pins makes such a system generally commercially impracticable. For these and other reasons, the dye transfer procedure has been less favored than the photographic copying procedures. The conventional photographic copying of a film tape matrix onto unexposed photographic films, such as nitrate films, acetate and more recently polyester, is now widely used to produce the large number of prints needed for modern layout in the room film, which may require more than 4,000 prints per movie. Photographic filmmaking does not, however, provide accurate color control of the tone scale and color reproduction available using the dye transfer procedure, which may result in inferior production of colors in film prints. cinematographic In addition, photographic film has a greater tendency to discolour over time, resulting in a less durable print. According to the foregoing, there is a need for an improved system for producing prints by film dye transfer that is capable of maintaining accurate correspondence at high volume production rates. There is also, therefore, a need for a method for producing prints by transferring film dye competitively in sufficient quantities for the continually increasing need for distribution in movie theaters.

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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed to a system for producing printed copies of films by dye transfer. More particularly, the present invention is directed to an apparatus and a method for maintaining superimposed films, comprising a matrix film superimposed on a receiving film, in precise correspondence during dye transfer, the predominance of which is carried out without a band of pins. Generally, a dye transfer apparatus according to the present invention includes a roller tank having a first plurality of rollers in a predetermined orientation. The first plurality of rollers is adapted to superpose a receiving blank film on a dye-impregnated matrix film in a predetermined correspondence, ie to place the receptor and matrix films in intimate contact, thus creating an "overlay" of two films for your dye transfer. The roller tank communicates with a band of pins, which includes a plurality of pins or teeth on a strip that travels in an orbital path. The pins engage with holes for teeth in the superposition of two films supplied within the roller tank, thus directing the superposition of two films along a portion of the orbital path. The pins also have a > t & ¿¿¿¿¿¿¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡Â Â Â Â Â the predetermined spacing between them to maintain the superposition of two films in precise correspondence as they travel along the orbital path. A first release roller is provided in communication with the band of pins, which releases the overlap of two films from the band of pins, while keeping the films in precise correspondence and without adversely affecting the adhesion between the films. A transfer cabinet then receives the overlap of two films of the first release roller to substantially complete the dye transfer. The transfer cabinet includes a second plurality of rollers having a predetermined relation to one another and a lifting mechanism for adjusting the predetermined ratio. The rollers in the transfer cabinet have relatively large diameters compared to the other rollers in the apparatus, thus defining substantially rectilinear trajectories along their perimeters. The rollers define a film path along which the overlap of two films is displaced through the transfer cabinet, the overlap of two films moving systematically around a portion of the perimeters of the rollers and between the rollers in one direction. default sequence. The rollers also preferably have perimeters without substantially uniform teeth, thus allowing the overlap of two films to move along the perimeters thereof without requiring ridges or teeth to engage the overlap of two films, while keeping the films in correspondence with each other. precise and without adversely affecting the adhesion between the films. The lifting mechanism includes one or more servomotors to precisely adjust the position of one or more corresponding rollers within the transfer case, thus providing the predetermined tension on the superposition of two films that travels along the film path. The lifting mechanism can be manually adjusted or it can include one or more sensors to measure the actual tension of the superposition of two films as it travels along the film path. Preferably, the transfer cabinet also includes a pair of synchronized servomotors to adjust the stress distribution of the overlap of two films, thus providing additional tension adjustment and thus also maintaining the superposition of two films in precise correspondence and without adversely affecting the adhesion between the films. The transfer cabinet also provides predetermined atmospheric conditions, such as predetermined temperature and humidity, to promote complete dye transfer from the dye-impregnated matrix to the receiving film according to the position of two films moving through the cabinet at one time. predetermined. A second release roller, including a third plurality of rollers in a predetermined orientation, is provided in communication with the film path of the transfer case. The third plurality of rollers separates the matrix or receiver film after the complete transfer of colorant has occurred substantially within the transfer cabinet. The receiving film can then be processed using other apparatus and methods to provide a finished print. For example, the receiving film may be directed through a subsequent system similar to that just described to transfer an additional color to the receiving film. The matrix film may be directed through a drying equipment, or a spray dye trache, and followed by an enclosure of the new wash system, in preparation for the transfer of dye to a subsequent receiving film. A dye transfer printing system according to the present invention substantially reduces the length of a band of pins needed for an individual dye transfer path and allows the system to operate at substantially higher speeds than traditional systems with dye transfer bands. pins to produce film prints in substantially larger volume in a commercially feasible manner. For example, in one aspect, a roller tank according to the present invention can include rollers having a determined hardness and applying a certain pressure to the superposition of two films to promote adhesion and / or dye transfer at speeds substantially higher than previous systems. In addition, a band of pins according to the present invention may have an orbital path or a peripheral length substantially less than 73 meters and preferably about 8 meters The band of pins includes specially designed and / or arranged pins, adapted to facilitate the settling and detachment of the films from the band of pins at relatively high speeds without the substantial risk of damaging the films. Thus, the band of pins can be operated at speeds of approximately 292 meters per second or more and preferably between approximately 365 and 437 meters per minute, without the substantial risk of damaging and / or misaligning the overlap of two films during settling and subsequent detachment. These parameters result in the superposition of two films that are on the band of pins for no more than about 1 or 2 seconds, that is, substantially less than 10% of the approximately 45-50 seconds that are generally needed to complete the dye transfer. Thus, the dye transfer apparatus according to the present invention substantially completes the transfer of dye without a pin matching device such as a band of pins, and preferably while directing the superposition of two films along a path substantially rectilinear without pins, such as inside a transfer cabinet. The film path preferably has a length that is sufficiently long such that the overlap of two films travels through the transfer cabinet in approximately 45 seconds or more, preferably in 45-50 seconds, thus allowing complete transfer to occur. of coloring in it. The substantially rectilinear trajectory defined by the rollers of relatively large diameter and the natural adhesion of the films promoted by the tension adjustment provided by the lifting mechanism allows the transfer cabinet to maintain the superposition of two films in precise correspondence without the need for pins or teeth, thus allowing the films to travel along the film path at speeds substantially higher than those previously available. According to the above, a main object of the present invention is to provide a dye transfer apparatus that substantially reduces the length of the band of pins that is needed to maintain a matrix film and a receiving film in precise correspondence during the transfer of coloring. It is also an object to provide an improved apparatus and method for keeping in accurate correspondence a receiving film upon laying on a matrix film impregnated with colorant as it travels at relatively high speeds along a continuous path.

It is also an object to provide an improved system for making dye transfer prints of professional motion picture films at speeds substantially higher than those available using prior dye transfer systems. It is also an object to provide an improved roller stack to seat together a dye-impregnated matrix film and a receiving film to facilitate dye transfer under high speed conditions. It is also an object to provide an improved pin band to seat the receiving and matrix films thereon, and to detach the films therefrom under high speed conditions. Other objects and features of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a schematic plan view of a dye transfer system according to the present invention. Figure 2 is a view taken along line 2-2 of Figure 1, showing a dye transfer apparatus according to the present invention including a band of pins and a transfer cabinet.

Figure 3 is an enlarged view of the roller tank and the band of pins of Figure 2. Figure 4 is a vertical view of a machined detachment roll for removing an overlap of two films from a band of pins. Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the transfer case of Figure 2. Figure 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view along line 6-6 of Figure 1 of the transfer case of Figure 5. Figure 7 is a vertical view of machined detachment roller for separating matrix and blank films after dye transfer. Figure 8 is an alternative vertical view of the release roller of Figure 7 taken along line 8-8. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the transfer case of Figure 6 taken along line 9-9. Figure 10A is a plan view of a segment of an overlay of two films on a band of pins. Figure 10B is a side view of the overlap of two films and the band of pins of Figure 10A. Figure 10C is an exploded perspective view of the overlay film and the band of pins of Figure 10A. Fig. 11A is a cross section of a pair of pins for a rod of pins (shown more lucidly) according to the present invention. Figure 11 B is a top view of one of the pins of Figure 11 A. Figure 11C is a detail of a pair of pins with an overlap of two films seated thereon.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITIES Turning now to the drawings, Figure 1 shows a schematic plan of the dye transfer system 10 according to the present invention. Generally, system 10 is used to print a copy of a professional motion picture using a three-color dye transfer procedure. A blank or receiver film 12 is provided to which the dye is transferred to create a copied print (called a dye transfer print by impregnation or an "IB print") and a matrix film 14 is provided to transfer a dye colored in white 12. The materials and construction of the films, for example the polyester film base that is used, as well as their chemical properties, are known and will not be discussed here. The system 10 includes a path or continuous circuit for the matrix film 14 and a continuous path for the blank film 12. -.- », ¿¿¿¿. 3ßh)? & 8S & .

The matrix film path 14 includes equipment for applying colorant to the matrix film, namely a colorant tank 30, a system enclosure of the new wash 32, and includes a dye reference apparatus, to complete the dye transfer to the blank film 12. Returning to FIGS. 2-9, a dye transfer apparatus 40 is shown in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. The apparatus 40 includes a roller tank 42, a pin band apparatus 44, a first release roller 46, a transfer path cabinet 48 and a second release roller 50. With particular reference to FIG. 3, the tank roller 42 includes a wet section 52 and a dry section 54. Each section 52, 54 is preferably a separate substantially covered chamber within the roller tank 42 connected by openings through which the blank film 12 can be moved, the matrix film 14 and band of pins 70 (all shown translucently). The roller tank 42 also includes a plurality of rollers 56, 64, which preferably have substantially smooth perimeters, rotatably fixed at a predetermined ratio within the roller tank 42. For example, the wet section 52 includes a roller 56 that receives the film of matrix 14 impregnated with dye, and the guide to the band of pins 70. The roller 58 receives the blank film 14 and directs it towards the first pair of rollers 60. The first pair of rollers 60 cooperatively directs the blank film 12 to the band of pins 70. and superimposes the blank film 12 on the matrix film 14 in a predetermined correspondence to create an overlap of two films 16 (not shown in Figure 3). Alternatively, blank film 12 may be pre-wetted first on pin band 70, followed by matrix film 14. Second pair of rollers 62 applies a predetermined pressure to seat the films 12, 14 still further. The wet section 52 preferably includes conditions that facilitate the initial settling and adhesion of the films 12, 14. For example, water can be injected or sprinkled on the films 12, 14 as they settle on the band of pins 70. Alternatively, the wet section 52 with water to which the films 12, 14 can be completely immersed. The water allows the films 12, 14 to move in correspondence with each other and the subsequent removal of that water under pressure removes the entrained air and promotes the natural adhesion of the superposition of two films 16, that is, the tendency of the wet films to adhere substantially to one another, to help educing the misalignment and keeping the films 12, 14 in precise correspondence. Preferably, controlled water is injected at its temperature, i.e. heated to a predetermined temperature, between the films 12, 14 while being intimately contacted with each other. For example, water at temperatures between about 38 and 43 degrees Celsius and preferably about 41 degrees Celsius may be appropriate for this purpose. In addition one or more additives can be provided ^^^^^^^ j ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ - ^^^^^^^^^ on the water to promote adhesion and / or facilitate the transfer of dye. For example, it may be appropriate to add calcium or a similar material to control the hardness of the water, for example by slightly hardening the water injected between the films 12, 14. The dry section 54 includes two pairs of rollers 64a, 64b which also apply a pressure predetermined to the superposition of two films 16 and remove excess water within the films 12, 14 for optimum dye transfer. The location of the rollers 56, 64 within the roller tank 42 and in relation to one another can be manually and / or automatically adjustable to maintain the predetermined correspondence and the predetermined pressure. Preferably, the relative positions of the roller pairs 60-64 are pneumatically controlled to apply the predetermined pressure of the overlap of two films 16, typically between about 82 kPa and about 205 kPa. For example, rollers 60, 62, of the wet section can apply pressures of between about 123-171 kPa to the films 16 with much preferred presently of about 161 kPa. The rollers 64a, 64b of the dry section can apply pressures between about 68-61 kPa, with 171 kPa being preferred for the first pair of rollers 64a and with 103 kPa being preferred for the second pair of rollers 64b. In addition, the rolls 60-64 also preferably have predetermined hardnesses to enhance point-to-point contact and to expose excess water and entrained air to further promote optimum adhesion and / or dye transfer. Generally, the rollers 60-64 have a stippled inner flange (e.g. flanges 162 on the roll 62), which may be provided with bronze or other conventional material, and an annular tire (e.g. tire 163 on roller 62) provided with rubber or similar material having a predetermined hardness. For example, it has been determined that hardnesses of about 65A and about 85A (Shore Durometer) are useful for the present invention. Preferably, the upper rollers 60, 62, 64a and 64b have hardnesses of approximately 75A, 65A, 85A and 75A respectively, while rollers 60, 62, 64a and 64b all preferably have a hardness of approximately 75A: Hardnesses and pressures The predetermined pairs of rolls 60-64 provide improved conditions for maintaining the films 12, 14 in precise correspondence during the high speeds of the present dye transfer system. With particular reference to Figs. 2-4, the pin band apparatus 44 is shown including the band of pins 70 and a pair of wheels 74, 76 supported by a conventional frame structure 75. The band of pins 70 has a tape. endless traveling on an orbital path 72 (shown translucently) around and between the two wheels 74,76. The strip of pins 70 is preferably produced in stainless steel using known methods and constructions, and has a defined periphery and an orbital path 72, preferably substantially less than about 73 meters and more preferably between about 7 and about 8 meters in length. The wheel 74 is mounted adjustably to the frame 75 and can rotate freely, while the wheel 76 is driven by a motor, thus allowing the band of pins to engage with the wheels and move along the orbital path 72. The added weight and pinion support apparatus 78 allows the wheel 74 to be adjusted and substantially locked, thereby regulating the distance between the wheel 74, 76 and applying a predetermined pressure to the band of pins 70 proportional to the weight 79. The servomotor 84 drives the wheel 76, thus controlling the speed of the band of pins 70 and applying the tension still desired with the superposition of two films 16 that moves along the orbital path 72. As shown in figures 10A -10C, the band of pins 70 includes a plurality of pins or teeth 71 fixed substantially permanently or integrally formed on the outer surface of the band of pins 70, preferably being tightly fit through the perforated openings, spaced along of the seat of the band of pins. Preferably, the silver coin pins are turned to a predetermined shape adapted to facilitate the fastener strip 70 which receives releasably engages * with the perforations holes for teeth 13 in the overlap of two films 16. The pins 71 also have a spacing predetermined in them to maintain substantially the . '. ^ fam-? - ^ ... ~ ^ s * ^ 3 &3.% gl ^ £ &i superimposing these films 16 in precise correspondence, as they move in the orbital path 72 (eg approximately 4,757 mm). Preferably, the band of pins 70 has a pair of pins 71a, 71b spaced over the length of the band of pins 70, the spacing being between the pins within each pair, sometimes about a width of about 28.17 mm, for example, of the band of pins 70, thus corresponding to the two sets of holes for teeth provided on the conventional cinematographic tapes. Plus Preferably, a set of pins 71a is "fully adjustable" ie it has a shape and size substantially similar to the corresponding holes 13 of the films 16, while the other set of pins 71b has a substantially smaller size, for example smaller width and / or length promoting thus the stability of the overlap of two films 16 still facilitating their removal of the 70-pin film at relatively high portion rates. Alternatively, only a single set of pins (not shown) adjacent to one edge of the band of pins 70 can also provide sufficient stability to engage with the overlap of two films 16 and maintain the films 12, 14 in precise correspondence. Turning to FIGS. 11A-11C, a portion of a preferred embodiment of a rotisserie belt 70 (used translucently in FIG. 11A) having a fully adjustable pin 71a is shown. adjacent to a smaller 71 b pin. The pin 71a has a substantially rectangular shape corresponding to the shape of the tooth holes 13 of the film 16 of the overlap of two films, preferably having rounded edges. The pin 71a has a substantially dome or mushroom cross section to facilitate settling and detachment of the films 16 on the band of pins 70 or the same at high speed conditions. The smaller pin 71 b also has substantially rectangular shapes and the cross section the dome although smaller in width and length than the pin 71a fully adjustable. Preferably, the pins 71a, 71b are attached to the band of pins 70 in such a way that the front surfaces 170a, 171a are parallel and adjacent to one another. Thus, both front surfaces 170a, 171a substantially anneal with some leading edge 113a of the tooth holes 13 on the overlap of the films 16 to keep the films in precise correspondence as they are directed along the orbital path (not shown). ) in the direction indicated by the arrow 180. The rear surface 170c of the fully adjustable pin 71a substantially engages the exit edge 113c of the tooth hole 13, while the rear surface 171c of the smaller pin 71b does not. Similarly, the side surfaces 171 b of the smaller pin 71 b do not engage the side edges 113 b of the tooth 13. For example, the fully adjustable pin 71 a can have a height 173 of approximately 15.9 mm, a width 170a of approximately 2.79 mm and a length 170b of approximately 1.98 mm (which corresponds substantially to the width and length of the hole for teeth 13). The smallest pin 71b can have a height 173 of approximately 15.9, a width 171a of approximately 2.54 mm and a length of 1.85 mm. Attached to the bandpass machine 44 is the first release roller 46 which generally includes one or more rollers for detaching or guiding the overlap of two films 16 of the band of pins 70. Preferably, the first release roller 46 includes a substantially smooth perimeter roller 80 which facilitates the removal of the overlap of two films 16 of the pins of the band of pins 70. As can be seen from figure 3, the roller tank 42 and the first release roller 46 are generally held or integrally formed on the pin band apparatus 44. Preferably, the roller tank 42 is mounted on an upper central portion of the pin strip apparatus 44 with which the blank and matrix films 12, 14 are directed over a substantially flat segment of the band of pins 70. Similarly, it is preferred that the first release roller 46 be mounted adjacent to a flat segment of the band of pins 70 to facilitate removal of the overlap of the films 16 therein. So, the superposition of two ^^^^^^^^^^ Jjjg ^^ jg ^^^^^^^^ g ^^^^^^^^ movies 16 is preferably moved only along a portion of the orbital path 72 between the roller tank 42 and the first release roller 46. Alternatively, however, each component may be separately or may be mounted in alternative configurations to that shown without substantially affecting the operation of the apparatus 40. Returning to Figures 5-9, the transfer case 48 is shown which includes an elevator controlled roller arrangement 86-92 within a substantially enclosed cabinet 49. The cabinet 49 includes openings (not shown) in and out of the cabinet 49 to a continuous film path 94 along which the overlap of two films 16 may be directed, for example, to the pin strip apparatus 44. to the transfer case 48 and the transfer case 48 to the second release roll 50. Generally, within the transfer case 48, the rolls 86-92 are rotatably mounted in a predetermined relationship with each other to provide the continuous film path. along which the overlap of two films 16 can be displaced. The film path 94 defined by the rollers 86-92 should provide sufficient length and time for complete dye transfer to occur substantially within the transfer case 48 Preferably, the rollers 86, 88, 92 are mounted on benches, sharing common axes 96, 98 and frames. and the support 100. The rollers 90 are independently mounted in benches using the supporting frames 102. In addition, the benches are slightly offset from one another, such that the roller arrangement 86-92 defines one or more substantially helical paths that define the total 94 movie trajectory. Preferably, the arrangement of the rollers 86-92 defines a film path 94 having a length that is substantially greater than about 75 meters, preferably between about 219 and about 365 meters and most preferably between about 273 and 328 meters. Thus, the superposition of two films 16 remains in the transfer case 48 for approximately 45-50 seconds and preferably no more than approximately 45 seconds, while traveling at delivery speeds substantially greater than approximately 120 meters per minute, preferably between approximately 292-437 meters per minute and most preferably between approximately 365-437 meters per minute, or more. For example, as shown in Figures 6 and 9, the transfer case 48 preferably includes two similar sets of rolls 86-92, in arrangements 104, 106 substantially on opposite sides. Each of the roller banks 86, 88, 92 has 18 rollers mounted on common shafts 96, 98 and frames 100, while the roller banks 90 has 18 rollers mounted on frames 102. The film path 94 of the transfer case 48 is defined by a series of substantially straight paths extending between rollers 86-92 that ".», Asa. * ». , - - «aMMil'íMir ¡^, i.- - ^ * JHMO - * fefc - Att, begins at a point 94a where the overlap of the films 16 enters the transfer cabinet 48. A first roller 86a deflects the trajectory of film 94 vertically along the path 94b to a second roller 90. The film path 94 then follows the additional rollers 90, 92 along the trajectories 94c, 94d and 94e at which point, on account of the deviation from the blanks, the path 94 spirally returns forming loops to the roller 96b adjacent the roller 86a. The path 94 then extends helically along the banks of the rollers 86, 90 and 92 to the roller 90a. In this point, the path 94 extends along the path 94f to the roller 90b in the second arrangement 106. The film path 94 then follows the paths 94g, 94h and 94i helically through the second roller arrangement 106-92, to the roller 88a, whereupon the path 94j leads out of the transfer case 48. In addition, the rolls 86-92 preferably have diameters substantially larger than the diameters of the rolls used elsewhere in the apparatus 40 and the results in the above dye transfer systems, for example substantially larger than about 100 mm and preferably between about 229 mm and 456 mm. The larger diameters result in perimeters 86-92 defining substantially rectilinear trajectories, ie, the perimeters are sufficiently large of the two of the overlap of two films 16 so that the rollers 86-92 they behave similarly to a substantially straight path rather than a narrowly curved path. Thus, the superposition of two films 16, while traveling helically along the film path 94 through the roller arrangement 86-92, follows a substantially rectilinear path. Rollers having diameters of about 301 mm are currently most preferred because they provide a desired substantially rectilinear trajectory. In addition, unlike the band of pins, the rollers 86-92 are toothless and have substantially uniform perimeters, that is, they have no ridges to engage with the holes in the overlap of two films 16. According to the superposition of two films 16 it moves around the perimeter of a roller of relatively small diameter, the blank and matrix films 12, 14 may have a tendency to deviate or slide relative to one another, thus compromising the correspondence that is needed for proper dye transfer. Thus, small diameter rolls usually have ridges to engage with the overlap of two films 16 and maintain the films 12, 14 in precise correspondence. In contrast, as the superposition of two films 16 moves around the perimeters of the rollers 86-92, the films 12, 14 do not tend to slip one relative to another due to the substantially rectilinear paths defined by the relatively large diameters of the rollers 86-92. Thus, the rollers 86-92 do not need protrusions, pins or teeth that can risk damaging the overlap of two films 16. The transfer case 48 also generally includes a lifting mechanism for adjusting the predetermined ratio of the rollers. 86-92 to provide a desired or predetermined tension of the overlap of two films 14 that it leaves along the film path 94. With particular reference to FIG. 6, the lifting mechanism includes a voltage driving motor 112 for controlling the vertical position of the rollers 90. The tension drive motor 112 has a roller chain 114 fixed thereto which also communicates with a carriage or bar 116. The carriage 116 is a substantially rigid frame assembly that is slidably fixed to the rails 118, thereby allowing the carriage 116 to fit precisely upright within the cabinet 49 , as the motor 112 drives the chain 114 (for example between a higher position during operation and a lower position for service and maintenance, both shown). The rollers 90 are mounted on the frames 102 which are fixed to the carriage 116 as shown, thus allowing the distance (represented by the paths 94b, 94d, 94g and 94i) to be adjusted between the upper rollers 90 and the lower rollers 96, 88 and 92, and thus adjusting the tension of the superposition of two films 16 which travels along the film path 94. The carriage 116 is manually controlled, thus allowing an operator to adjust the tension and / or lower the carriage. 116 for maintenance. Alternatively, one or more individual banks or rollers may be adjustable within the transfer case 48 to provide adjustable tension adjustment. In a further alternative, the mechanism may include one or more interaction sensors and servomotors (not shown) that measures the actual stress experienced by the superposition of two films 16 that travel along the film path 94 and move. precisely one or more rollers in relation to the others in response to the actual voltage measurements. Thus, the sensors and servomotors can be used to adjust the actual tension toward the predetermined tension, further maintaining the films 12, 14 in precise correspondence. In addition, the transfer case 48 includes a pair of synchronized drive motors 108110. The motors 108, 110 drive the shafts 98 of the roller unit 86, 88, thus controlling the tension distribution of the overlap of two films 16 that move along the film path 94. Preferably, the shafts 98 and engines 108, 110 comprise a tangentially driven system, as will be familiar to those skilled in the art. Further, while the motor 108 pulls the overlap of two films 16 from the band of pins 70 to the transfer case 48, the motor 110 pulls the overlap of two films 16 through the film path 94. Thus, it can be adjusted the speed of the motors 108, 110 one in relation to another to provide more tension control of the overlap of two films 16 which travels along the film path 94. Preferably, the motor 112 applies a relatively high voltage to the motor. the superposition of two films 16 as it moves along the film path 94, compared as soon as the overlap of two films 16 moves along the orbital path 72 on the band of pins 70, thus enhancing the films 12, 14 that remain in precise correspondence with the transfer case 48. For example, the motor 112 can apply a tension of approximately 3.18-3.63 kg to the film 16, while overlaying can only be subjected to two films 16 to approximately 0.91-1.36 kg of tension while in the band of pins 70. The transfer case 48 is preferably maintained under predetermined atmospheric conditions to optimize the complete dye transfer at a predetermined time. For example, the chamber inside the transfer cabinet 48 can be heated to a temperature between about 43 and 49 degrees Celsius, preferably about 40 degrees Celsius, thus providing the conditions for complete dye transfer to occur and in about 45- 50 seconds The temperature inside the transfer case 48 can be reduced, possibly as low as ambient temperatures, but this can increase the time it takes for the complete dye transfer (i.e. the time that the superposition of two films 16 must remain within the transfer cabinet 48) and consequently increase the required length of the film path 94. Increasing the temperature may hide the transfer time, but may also expose damage to the compliant films from one another. In addition, temperatures of approximately 60 degrees Celsius and higher can cause the films to become brittle and / or curl at their edges. In addition, it is also preferably kept in the transfer cabinet 48 at a relative humidity of between about 45% and about 50%. Such humidity can facilitate the transport of the superposition of two films 16 on the surface of the rollers, reducing friction. Substantially lower moisture conditions, for example about 10% or less, can cause the films to roll up or otherwise damage the films. Turning now to FIGS. 6-8, the second release roller 50 is shown, which includes a plurality of rollers disposed in a predetermined orientation. For example, the tooth 120 and the roller 124 in comparison are adapted to "detach" or separate the overlap of two films 16 to the blank film 12 (with the colorant transferred thereon) and to the matrix film 14. The roller 124 may be mounted on an adjustable conservative assembly 122 and the tooth 120 may be driven by a servo motor 132 to decouple the applied voltage within the transfer case 48 (e.g., reduce the tension of the overlap of two films 16 to approximately 0.91 kg) and driving the matrix film 14. The roller 126 then directs the matrix film 14 out of the second release roller 50 and through the film circuit . ^ ü ^ faith: f "? matrix 14, as discussed below, the input wheel 128 and the roller 130 directs a blank film 12 out of the second release roller 50 for subsequent processing, for example to the white box z 36 (see Figure 1) . The input wheel 128 has a motor 134 connected thereto to drive the blank film 12 after its separation from the matrix film 14. A dye transfer apparatus according to the present invention allows the transfer of dye to occur. at drive speeds substantially higher than those previously available using the additional ends of pin bands. For example, if a driving speed of about 365-437 meters per minute is desired and the conditions are such that the overposition of two films must remain on precise mapping for about 45 seconds, a path length of about 273-328 meters. Thus, a traditional pin size apparatus operating at such speeds would have to be of a length of hundreds of meters, requiring substantial space. In contrast, the transfer cabinet in a dye transfer apparatus according to the present invention can provide between approximately 273 and 328 meters in length of the film path only in approximately 6.6 square meters (for example a transfer cabinet having a footprint of approximately 6.6 meters by 1.8 meters.

Returning to FIGS. 1 and 2, a system and method for making color printing by dye transfer according to the present invention is shown. Referring first to the matrix portion of the system 10, the matrix film 14 is provided in a substantially continuous circuit that is fed through a series of equipment, including a rinse tank 20, a dry die box 22, a first lifting mechanism 24, a matrix changing station 26, a second lifting mechanism 28, a bleaching tank 30 and a new washing tank 32, all of which are substantially conventional. The matrix film 14 is then directed through a dye transfer apparatus according to the present invention, such as the preferred embodiment described above. The rinse tank 20 sprinkles water on the surface of the matrix film 12 to remove the residue remaining thereon from a previous cycle of dye transfer. The dry matrix box 22 then dries the rinsed matrix film 14 as it passes back therefrom, typically using forced hot air. The matrix film 14 passes through the matrix change station 26 which allows the matrix to be interchanged between the cycles and replaced with a new matrix film 14 and / or provides continuity for the matrix film 14 which is It moves around the circuit. Elevator mechanisms are provided, including one more motor-driven rollers or other drive mechanisms (not shown) for pulling the matrix film 14 through the circuit, and a plurality of rollers (not shown) in adjustable relation to one another by controlling the tension on the matrix film 14. For example, as shown, a first elevator mechanism 24 pulls the matrix film 14 from the dye transfer apparatus 40 through the rinsing tank 20 and the matrix dry box 24. This is also provided with a second lifting mechanism 28 which pulls the matrix film 14 from the matrix change station 26. The matrix film 14 then enters the colorant tank 30 which includes a plurality of spray nozzles (not shown) for sprinkling a particular color colorant to the surface of the matrix film 14, which is substantially soaking the surface of the matrix film 14. The matrix film 14 is displaced then to the new wash tank 32 which includes a plurality of nozzles (not shown) for sprinkling water on the matrix film 14, thus removing the excess dye from the surface thereof to control the color relationship of the completed print. Thus, when the matrix film 14 emerges the new wash tank 32, it is properly impregnated with decolorizing and ready for dye transfer to the blank film12. 20 Returning now to the blank movie portion of the system , the blank or receiver film 12 is directed along a continuous path, including a pre-wet tank 34, the dye transfer apparatus 40 and the blank wet box 36. The pre-wet tank 34 sprinkles water on the blank film 12 to moisten with a gelatin other absorbent material on the surface thereof to receive colorant. The blank and matrix films 12, 14 are then directed to the roller tank 42, where they are placed on top of each other at a predetermined pressure in a predetermined correspondence to create the overposition of two films 16. The films 12 are directed, 14 on the pin band 70, which followed it partially around the orbital path 72 thereof. The first release roller 46 removes the two film 16 proposal from the pin strip 70 and directs the transfer case 48. The overposition of two films 16 is then directed along the film path 94 (not shown). in Figure 2) defined by the plurality of rollers 86-92 for sufficient time for the dye transfer to be substantially completed. Although part of the dye transfer process may occur before the transfer case 48, it is preferred that substantially all or most of the process occurs in the transfer case, rather than on the band of pins 70. Preferably, less than 10 % of the time that the blank and matrix films 12, 14 remain in precise contact should occur on the band of pins 70 and / or outside the transfer case 48. Thus, the band of pins 70 acts primarily as a settling device , allowing the films 12, 14 to overlap initially in precise correspondence thereon. The overposition of those films 16 thereof could then be removed and directed to an apparatus, such as the transfer cabinet 48, where the dye transfer occurs substantially without using a matching device, such as pins that engage with the tooth holes of the films 12, 14 to preserve them in precise correspondence. Preferably, the transfer cabinet 48 defines a chamber that provides substantially stable atmospheric conditions to promote dye transfer at a predetermined transfer time, for example, the predetermined temperatures and / or humidity discussed above. The precise correspondence of the overposition of two films 16 through all orbital trajectory 72 is highlighted in the film trajectory 94 that is remembered by promoting the addition and controlling the tension of the overposition of two films16. The pins on the band of pins 70 substantially prevent the overposition of two tensioned films 16 from being misaligned during seating on the hand of pins 70. Inside the transfer case 48, in addition to the substantially rectilinear trajectory provided by the relatively large diameter rollers 86-92, the tension control of the lifting mechanism protects the adhesion between the overposition of two films 16 to maintain the films 12, 14 in precise correspondence through the entire 94 movie trajectory.

The predetermined ratio of the rollers 86-92 can be adjusted manually and / or automatically in response to actual tension experienced on two film position 16, for example using the tension motor assembly 112-116, maintaining the tension substantially at a predetermined tension that promotes the films in their replacement 16 remain in precise correspondence. The drive speeds of the improvised motors 108, 110 can also be adjusted to further maintain the predetermined tension distribution and promote accurate mapping of the overlapping of two films 16. Finally, after the full transparency has occurred substantially of dye, the second release roll after the blank film 12 of the matrix film 14. The blank dry box 36 dries the blank film 12 after the dye transfer in the dye transfer apparatus 40, in preparation to continue on another system (not shown), for example to transfer an additional color or to remove the finished print. Although only a single system 10 and a matrix 14 are shown, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that three systems 10 are generally necessary to produce a finished copy of a motion picture. A system 10 is provided for each color dye (eg cyan, magenta and yellow) which is transferred to the blank film 12, we move the blank film 12 sequentially through each system 10. Thus, a blank film 12 will go behind three devices The color transfer 40 is applied by applying a unique color to each device 40, thereby producing a finished print of three colors of a film. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific examples thereof have been shown in the drawings and are described herein in detail. It should be understood, however, that the invention must not be limited to the particular forms or methods that are set forth, but on the contrary, the invention must cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives that remain silent within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims (43)

1. NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS 1. - An apparatus for maintaining an overlap of two films (16) comprising a receiving film (12) superimposed on a matrix film (14) impregnated with dye in precise correspondence during dye transfer, said apparatus comprising: a band of pins (70) including a plurality of pins (71) moving in an orbital path (72) at a predetermined speed, said pins (71) being adapted to seat an overlap of two films (16) thereon in precise correspondence and to direct the superposition of two films (16) along the portion of said orbital path (72) at said predetermined speed; and a transfer cabinet (48) comprising a film path (94) continuous substantially rectilinear to receive the overlap of two films (16) of the band of pins (70), said film path (94) defined a corresponding length at the time for the dye transfer at said predetermined rate to occur substantially.
2. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further characterized in that the orbital path has a length of approximately 8 meters or less. Ja, ^. . 3. - The apparatus according to claim 1, further characterized in that said predetermined speed is at least about 291 meters per minute. 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, further characterized in that said orbital path (72) has a length such that the overlap of two films (16) runs said portion of said orbital path (72) in less than about 2 seconds . 5. The apparatus according to claim 1, further characterized in that said time for the dye transfer to occur substantially is about 45 seconds or more. 6. The apparatus according to claim 1, further characterized in that said portion of said orbital path (72) has a length of less than about 10% of said length of said film path (94). 7. The apparatus according to claim 1, further characterized in that said transfer case (48) includes a plurality of rollers (86-92) having toothless, substantially smooth perimeters that define at least partially said film path (94) and in that said dye transfer occurs substantially along said film path (94). 8. The apparatus according to claim 1, further characterized in that said transfer case (48) includes a first plurality of rolls (86-92) having a predetermined relationship with one another defining a film path (94), said film path (94) being adapted to direct the superposition of two films (16) about a portion of a perimeter and between each of said first plurality of rollers (86-92) in a predetermined sequence, said plurality of rollers (86-92) having diameters sufficiently large to define substantially rectilinear paths to along said perimeters. 9. The apparatus according to claim 8, further characterized in that said transfer case (48) further includes a lifting mechanism for adjusting said predetermined ratio of said first plurality of rolls (86-92), thus providing a predetermined tension on the superposition of two films (16) that is directed along said film path (94). 10. The apparatus according to claim 9, further characterized in that said lifting mechanism includes a plurality of synchronized servomotors (112) for adjusting said predetermined ratio. 11. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a roller tank (42) including a second plurality of rollers (56-64) for superimposing a matrix film (14) impregnated with dye on a film on white (12) to said band of pins (70) in precise correspondence to create the superposition of two films (16). 12. - The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a release roller (50) including a third plurality of rollers (124, 130) for receiving the overlay film (16) of said transfer case (48), being adapted 5 said third plurality of rollers (124, 130) for separating a matrix film (14) impregnated with colorant and a blank film (12) comprising the superposition of two films (16). 13. The apparatus according to claim 1, further characterized in that said transfer case (48) includes 10 predetermined atmospheric conditions adapted to enhance dye transfer within the superposition of two films (16) along said film path (94). 14. The apparatus according to claim 13, further characterized in that said atmospheric conditions 15 predetermined include a temperature of between about 43 and about 49 degrees Celsius. 15. The apparatus according to claim 13, further characterized in that said predetermined atmospheric conditions include a relative humidity of between about 20 45% and approximately 50%. 16. The apparatus according to claim 1, further characterized in that said plurality of rollers (86-92) have diameters substantially greater than about 100 mm. ^^^^ g ^^^^^^^^^ ßto ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ 17. - An apparatus for maintaining an overlap of two films (16) comprising a receiving film (12) superimposed on a matrix film (14) impregnated with dye in precise correspondence during dye transfer, said apparatus comprising: a band of pins (70) which includes a plurality of pins (71) moving in an orbital path (72) at a predetermined speed, said pins (71) being adapted to seat an overlap of two films (16) thereon in precise correspondence and to direct the superposition of two films (16) together with a portion of said orbital path (72) at said predetermined speed; and a roller (46) for detaching the overlap of two films (16) of said pins (71) after traversing said portion of said orbital path (72) and before the termination of the dye transfer within the superposition of two. movies (16). 18. The apparatus according to claim 17, further comprising a roller tank (42) including a plurality of rollers (56-64) for superimposing a matrix film (14) impregnated with dye on a white film. (12) on said band of pins (70) in precise correspondence to create the superposition of two films (16). 19. The apparatus according to claim 17, further characterized in that said predetermined speed is at least about 291 meters per minute. l ^? a ^ g ^^ j 20. - The apparatus according to claim 17, further characterized in that said orbital path (72) has a length such that the overlap of two films (16) traverses said portion of said orbital path (72) in less than about 2 seconds. 21. An apparatus for maintaining an overlap of two films (16) comprising a matrix film (14) impregnated with dye superimposed on a white film (12) in precise correspondence during the high speed dye transfer process of a motion picture film impression, said apparatus comprising: a transfer case (48) for receiving an overlay of two films (16) of a settling apparatus (42, 70) at a predetermined speed, including said transfer case (48) a first plurality of rollers (86-92) having a predetermined relation to each other defining a film path (94), said film path (94) being adapted to direct the superposition of two films (16) around a portion of a perimeter without teeth of each between each of said first plurality of rollers (86-92) in a predetermined sequence; because said perimeters are sufficiently large such that said film path (94) comprises a substantially rectilinear trajectory to maintain the superposition of two films (16) in precise correspondence through said film path (94). 22. The apparatus according to claim 21, further characterized in that each of said rollers (86-92) has a diameter between about 228 mm and 456 mm. 23. The apparatus according to claim 21, further characterized in that said predetermined speed is at least about 291 meters per minute. 5 24. The apparatus according to claim 21, further characterized in that said film path (94) has a length such that the overlap of two films (16) completely traverses said film path (94) at said predetermined speed in approximately 45-50 seconds. The apparatus according to claim 21, further comprising a settling apparatus (42, 70) for superimposing a matrix film (14) impregnated with dye on a white film (16) to create the superposition of two movies (16). 26. The apparatus according to claim 25, 15 further characterized in that said seating apparatus (42, 70) comprises a roller tank (42) including a second plurality of rollers (56-64) for superimposing the matrix film (14) impregnated with dye on the blank film. (12) in precise correspondence. 27. The apparatus according to claim 25, 20 further characterized in that said seating apparatus (42, 70) comprises a band of pins (70) that includes a plurality of pins (71) that travels in an orbital path (72), said pins (71) being adapted to receive releasably a movie of matrix (14) impregnated with dye of a receiving film (12) on it, thus defining the superposition of two films (16), said pins (71) being adapted to direct the superposition of two films (16) along a portion of said orbital path (72); said plurality of pins (71) having a predetermined spacing between them to maintain the superposition of two films (16) in precise correspondence. 28. The apparatus according to claim 21, further comprises a release roller (50) including a third plurality of rollers (124, 130) to separate the overlap of two films (16) to a matrix film (14). ) of a blank film (12) after the complete transfer of dye has occurred within said transfer case (48). 29. The apparatus according to claim 21, further characterized in that said transfer case (48) also comprises a lifting mechanism for adjusting said predetermined ratio, thus providing a predetermined tension on the superposition of two films (16). 30. The apparatus according to claim 29, further characterized in that said lifting mechanism comprises a servomotor (112). 31. The apparatus according to claim 29, further characterized in that said lifting mechanism includes a plurality of servo motors (112) synchronized to adjust said predetermined ratio. 32.- A method for transferring dye from a matrix film (14) impregnated with dye and a receiving film (12) for 5 producing a dye transfer print of a motion picture film impression, said method comprising the steps: seating a matrix film (14) impregnated with dye and a receiving film (12) on a band of pins (70), thereby creating an overlap of two films (16); boost the band of pins (70) at a speed 10 predetermined along an orbital path (72); engaging the tooth holes on the matrix and receiver films (14, 12) with the pins (31) precisely spaced on the band of pins (70), thus maintaining the superposition of two films (16) in precise correspondence; release the superposition of two films (16) of the band 15 pins (70) before the completion of the dye transfer; completing the transfer of dye from a matrix film (14) to the receiving film (12) in a transfer cabinet (48); and maintaining the superposition of two films (16) in precise correspondence during said step of completing the dye transfer. The method according to claim 32, comprising the additional step of detaching the receiving film (12) from the matrix film (14) after said step of completing the dye transfer. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ D ^ ^^^^^^^^ 34. - The method according to claim 32, further characterized in that said step of seating the matrix and receiver films (14, 12) on the band of pins (70) comprises the steps of: introducing the matrix and receiver films (14). , 12) to a roller tank 5 (42); seating the matrix film (14) on the band of pins (70); seating the receiving film (12) on top of the matrix film (14) on the band of pins (70), thereby creating the superposition of two films (16); injecting water between the matrix and blank films (14, 12); and applying a predetermined pressure to the superposition of two films (16). The method according to claim 32, further characterized in that the superposition of two films (16) remains on the band of pins (70) for less than about 10% of the time to complete the transfer of dye from the matrix film (14) to the receiving film (12). 15 36. The method according to claim 32, further characterized in that said step of driving the band of pins (70) comprises the step of driving the band of pins (70) at a predetermined speed of at least about 292 meters per minute. 37. The method according to claim 32, further characterized in that said step of completing the dye transfer comprises the steps of: providing a transfer case (48) comprising a plurality of rolls (86-92) having A relationship ^^^^^^^^^^ «^^ * ^^^^^^ B ^ B ^^^^^^^^^^^ || ^ gg ^^^^^^^^^^^^ ^ ???????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? and directing the superposition of two films (16) throughout the film trajectory (94). 38.- The method according to claim 37, further characterized in that said step of directing the superposition of two films (16) along the film path (94) comprises directing the superposition of two films (16) around each other. a portion and between each of the rollers (86-92) in a predetermined sequence. 39.- The method according to claim 32, further characterized in that said step of maintaining the superposition of two films (16) in precise correspondence during said step of completing the dye transfer comprises the step of adjusting a tension of the films ( 12, 14) as they travel along the film path (94). The method according to claim 39, further characterized in that said step of adjusting a tension of the films (12, 14) comprises the step of adjusting the predetermined ratio of the plurality of rollers (86-92). 41. The method according to claim 32, further characterized in that said step of completing the dye transfer includes the step of heating the superposition of two films (16) to a temperature of about 44 degrees Celsius. 42. - The method according to claim 32, further characterized in that said step of completing the dye transfer includes the step of subjecting the superposition to two films at a relative humidity of between about 45% and about 50%. 43. The method according to claim 32, further characterized in that said step of completing the dye transfer requires between about 45 and about 50 seconds. ^^^ aa - ^^^^^^ - ^ - ^ ia ^^^^ a ^ -a ^ SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A system for producing prints of a professional film by dye transfer, which includes a roller tank, a band of pins and a transfer cabinet; the dye-impregnated matrix film and a white film are superimposed on each other in a predetermined correspondence by the rollers in the roller tank, creating an overlap of two films, which is directed to the band of pins; the band of pins includes a plurality of pins that travels in an orbital path, which are releasably hooked with the overlap of two films, thus directing the superposition of two films along a portion of the orbital path; the transfer cabinet includes a plurality of rollers of relatively large diameters in a predetermined relationship with each other and a lifting mechanism for adjusting the predetermined ratio; the rollers define a substantially rectilinear film path along which the overlap of two films from the pin web is directed; the film path has a sufficient length for a complete dye transfer at high speeds to occur within the transfer cabinet; the superposition of two films follows; the blank film can be directed through three dye transfer systems in a continuous path by applying a single color dye with each system to produce a finished print of three colors. GC / mvh * sH * abg * pbg * aom * cgm P00 / 304F