US3832182A

US3832182A - Film unit

Info

Publication number: US3832182A
Application number: US00178235A
Authority: US
Inventors: J Mathews
Original assignee: Eastman Kodak Co
Current assignee: Eastman Kodak Co
Priority date: 1971-09-07
Filing date: 1971-09-07
Publication date: 1974-08-27
Anticipated expiration: 1991-08-27
Also published as: CA978788A

Abstract

A PHOTOGRAPHIC FILM UNIT OF THE SELF-PROCESSING TYPE, INCLUDING AN IMAGE-RECORDING PORTION, AND MEANS IN COMMUNICATION WITH THE IMAGE-RECORDING PORTION FOR ACCOMMODATING A PRECESSING FLUID. THE ACCOMMODATING MEANS PREFERABLY INCLUDES A FLUID SUPPLY MECHANISIM, SUCH AS A POD, AND A COLLECTING MECHANISM, SUCH AS A TRAP, THAT INITIALLY EXTEND OUTWARDLY FROM THE LEADING TRAILING ENDS OF THE IMAGE-RECORDING PORTION, RESPECTIVELY, BUT THAT ARE FOLDABLE TO POSITIONS BEHIND A PRINT-VIEWING SIDE OF THE RECORDING PORTION AFTER PROCESSING HAS BEEN INITIATED. SUCH FOLDING IMPROVES THE APPEARANCE OF THE PROCESSED FILM UNIT WITHOUT GENERATING ANY NECESSARILY DISPOSABLE WASTE. THE FOLDABLE PORTIONS ARE SUBSTANTIALLY FLAT WHEN FOLDED AND, IN ACCORDANCE WITH ONE FEATURE, ARE APPROXIMATELY EQUAL IN COMBINED AREA TO THE AREA OF THE IMAGERECORDING PORTION, TO EVENLY COVER THE ENTIRE SIDE OF THE IMAGE RECORDING PORTION OPPOSITE FROM THE PRINT-VIEWING SIDE.

Description

mm mm Filed Sept. 7, 1971 2 Sheets-Sheet 1 JOHN A. MATHEWS INVENTOR.

FIG. 4

k 1974 V J. AQMATHEws 3,532,182 I FILM UNIT 2 Sheets-Sheet '3 Filed Sept. 7 1971 JOHN A. MATHEWS INVENTOR.

United States Patent 3,832,182 FILM UNIT John A. Mathews, Fairport, N. assignor to Eastman Kodak Company, Rochester, NY. Filed Sept. 7, 1971, Ser. No. 178,235 Int. Cl. G03e 1/48 US. CI. 96-76 C 17 Claims ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE A photographic film unit of the self-processing type, including an image-recording portion, and means in communication with the image-recording portion for accommodating a processing fluid. The accommodating means preferably includes a fluid supply mechanism, such as a pod, and a collecting mechanism, such as a trap, that initially extend outwardly from the leading and trailing ends of the image-recording portion, respectively, but that are foldable to positions behind a print-viewing side of the recording portion after processing has been initiated. Such folding improves the appearance of the processed film unit without generating any necessarily disposable waste. The foldable portions are substantially fiat when folded and, in accordance with one feature, are approximately equal in combined area to the area of the imagerecording portion, to evenly cover the entire side of the image-recording portion opposite from the print-viewing side.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to photographic film units of the self-processing type, and more specifically to selfprocessing film units including means for handling or otherwise accommodating a processing fluid or composition.

GENERAL FEATURES AND FORMS OF SEEP-PROCESSING FILM UNITS While self-processing film units can take many different forms, they generally include an image-recording portion and reservoir means for accommodating a processing fluid. The recording portion is defined by a photosensitive element and a process sheet: the former including one or more layers of radiation-sensitive material, for recording a processable latent image, and the latter serving as an aid for distributing the fluid over the photosensitive element to effect such processing. The accommodating means is in communication with the image-recording portion, and generally includes a container, such as a pod, for supplying the processing fluid to be distributed, as well as a collector, such as a trap, for receiving any exces of the fluid after it is distributed. In operation, the film unit is moved through processing means that rupture the container, distribute its contents in a layer of appropriate thickness between the photosensitive element and process sheet, and direct any excess into the collector. The fluid then permeates the radiation-sensitive layers to effect processing of the latent image, and a final image is established in a manner suitable for its visual presentation.

In the most well known form of such film units, the process sheet is opaque, and initially is separated or spaced apart from the exposure side of the photosensitive element to permit its exposure. The sheet then is superposed or registered with the exposure site of the photosensitive element for processing. The visibly presentable image is established in an image-receiving layer associated with the process sheet, and that sheet is separated or peeled apart from the photosensitive element to define a reflection print. Such film units can be referred to as being of a post-registered and peel-apart type, referring, respectively, to the initial and final relative positions of the photosensitive element and process sheet. Post-registered 3,832,182 Patented Aug. 27, 1974 identifies the feature of registration after exposure, while peel apart identifies the feature requiring removal of the process sheet to obtain the final print. An example of a post-registered, peel-apart film unit is illustrated and described in US. Pat. No. 3,080,805.

In other forms of self-processing film units, the photosensitive element and process sheet are registered or superposed prior to exposure, preferably at the time of manufacture, and remain in substantially the same condition during and after exposure and processing. The process sheet usually is transparent, to permit exposure of the photosensitive element, and remains permanently attached to the photosensitive element as part of the visibly presentable image. These last-mentioned film units can be referred to as being of a preregistered and integral type, again referring to the initial and final relative positions of the photosensitive element and process sheet. Examples of preregistered, integral film units, wherein the image-receiving layer is most closely associated with the process sheet, are disclosed in US. Pat. No. 3,415,644 and in British Pat. No. 1,224,372. Other examples, wherein the image-receiving layer is associated with the photosensitive element, are disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Applications Ser. 'No. 869,186, entitled Photographic Film Unit for Diffusion Transfer Processing, filed on Oct. 24, 1969 in the name of H. E. Cole; and Ser. No. 43,322, entitled Photographic Film Unit, filed on June 4, 1970 in the name of H. E. Cole.

The present invention is illustrated and described with a preregistered, integral film unit, and has particular utility therewith. However, certain of its features also can be applied to other types of integral film units, and certain embodiments of post-registered or other peel-apart units.

EXEMPLARY PROBLEMS OFTEN ENCOUNTERED WITH PREVIOUSLY KNOWN SELF-PROCESSING FILM UNITS While self-processing film units offer several well-known advantages over conventional film, they also sulfer from significant disadvantages that have persisted even though at least several relate to ecology, consumer convenience, and/ or other matters that have been subjected to intense formal research.

By way of example only, considerable resources have been expended in attempts to provide improved means for handling certain materials, such as the containers or pods and collectors or traps, that serve their primary function during processing and essentially comprise waste after that processing function is accomplished. Resulting possible approaches have ranged from reliance on the consumer for the proper separation and disposal of such materials, to the provision of camera mechanisms for their automatic separation and collection. However, while each of these approaches has particular advantages, and generally is satisfactory, each also suffers from certain disadvantages, at least under certain operating conditions. Reliance on the consumer to dispose of waste permits camera simplification and reduced costs, but has not been considered reliable in obtaining proper waste disposal. Separation andcollection of the waste materials by the camera can be nearly reliable, but requires more complex and expensive camera mechanisms, as well as increased size and bulkiness of the camera. Additionally, in almost all of the presently known film units where waste materials are intended to be separated from the final print, there is an added danger that processing fluid may leak from the waste materials or the print itself. This problem can be particularly troublesome because of the nature of the fluid, which can be caustic, or otherwise objectionable in certain environments.

Still further, and referring now to the presently preferred film unit illustrated and described in previously 3 mentioned.U.S. Application Ser. No. 869,186, the bac of the final print may comprise a transparent material suchas clear plastic, and mayhave an off-white or even mottled appearance from carbon black in the processing fluid. Plastic can make writing on the print difficult, and some consumers may find the off-white color or mottled appearance objectionable.

I SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A primary object of the present invention is to overcome certain or all of the above-mentioned disadvantages, as well as other disadvantages of self-processing film units that are known in the art or will become apparent from the following description.

Another object of the invention is to provide a selfprocessing film unit including improved means for managing supply and/or collecting mechanisms for the processing fluid after processing has been initiated.

A further object of the invention is to provide a selfprocessing film unit wherein processing-fluid accommodating means, such as fluid supply and/or collecting mechanisms, remain as a permanent part of the final print without detracting substantially from its aesthetic appearance.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a self processing film unit wherein there is little or no chance that any processing fluid will escape.

Another object of the invention is to provide a preregistered, integral film unit, having an image-recording portion with a container and collector for processing fluid permanently attached to leading and trailing ends thereof, respectively, wherein one or both of the container and collector are foldable after processing has been initiated to a position engaging one side of the imagerecording portion.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a film unit of the above type wherein a foldable portion associated 'with the container and/or collector is substantially equal in area to the area of the image-recording portion.

Still another object of the invention is to provide a preregistered, integral film unit of the self-processing type, having a substantially flat element that is movable into engagement with one side of the image-recording portion after processing has been initiated to enhance the properties of the recording portion.

A further object of the invention is to provide a preregistered, integral film unit having a permanently attached pod and trap, both of which are foldable from initial extended positions to final positions engaging a side of the image-recording portion opposite the side from which the recording portion is adapted to be viewed.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a self-processing film unit, having an image-recording portion, is provided with means movable relative to the recording portion from a first position, established for processing, to a second position, established after the initation of processing.

In accordance with one feature of the preferred embodiment, the movable means is associated with reservoir means for accommodating a processing fluid, such as a fluid supply and/or collecting mechanism, and hides at least a portion of the reservoir means from a viewing of the final print. In accordance with another feature, the accommodating means includes a container for supplying the processing fluid to the leading end of the image-recording portion, and/or a collector for receiving any excess of the fluid from the trailing end of such portion. Either one or both of the container and collector are movable from initial positions for serving their supplying and/or collecting functions, to final positions engaging the side of the image-recording portion that is opposite from the print viewing side. In accordance with yet another feature, one or both of the container and collector are sup ported on a substantially flat, rectangular element or elements that cover the container and/or collector in their final positions. In accordance with still another and particularly advantageous feature, the movable means is substantially equal in area to the image-recording portion and covers the entire back of the print in the second or final position of the movable means. In this manner, it can be utilized to enhance the properties of the final print.

The invention, and its objects and advantages, will become more apparent in the detailed description of the preferred embodiments presented below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The above and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to one skilled in the art from the following detailed description read in conjunction with the attached drawings, wherein like reference numerals indicate like elements, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view representing an assemblage of film units in accordance with the present invention, as they might be received in a camera usable with such an assemblage.

FIG. 2 is a pictorial view of a film unit in accordance with the present invention, illustrating the same with a processing fluid container and an excess fluid collector in extended positions they might assume during processing of the film unit.

FIG. 3 is a pictorial view of the film unit depicted in FIG. 2, with the container and collector partially folded between initial extended positions and final completely folded positions.

FIG. 4 is a pictorial view of the film unit depicted in FIG. 2 with the container and collector completely folded to final positions covering the side of the image-recording portion opposite from the print viewing side.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the film unit depicted in FIG. 2, illustrating various components of that film unit and their assembled arrangement.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are pictorial views of an alternative embodiment of the film unit in accordance with the present invention, wherein the supply and collecting mechanisms are similar to those depicted in FIG. 2, but have different proportional areas.

FIGS. 8 and 9 are pictorial views of yet another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the supply mechanism is the only folding element of the unit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Referring now to the drawings, and first to FIG. 2, a preferred embodiment of the invention comprises a selfprocessing film unit 3 including an image-recording portion 5, and reservoir means, such as supply and

collecting mechanisms

7 and 9, for accommodating a processing fluid.

The image-recording portion is adapted to record a latent image that is processable by the processing fluid, and for this purpose is provided with a first or photosensitive element 11, that is suitable for supporting the latent image, and a second element or process sheet 13, for aiding in distributing the fluid over the photosensitive element. The fluid accommodating means, on the other hand, provides the fluid for distribution, usually with some excess, and receives any such excess for storage or disposal after the distribution is completed. Thus, it should be apparent that the film unit includes all materials necessary for recording and processing a photographic image, when used in appropriate apparatus, such as the processing camera 15 illustrated in FIG. 1.

Image-Recording Portion The preferred image-recording portion is of the preregistered, integral type, wherein the process sheet 13 is permanently secured to the photosensitive element 11 along their lateral edges 16, and remains in substantially the same physical arrangement during exposure and after processing.

The photosensitive element 11 is defined by resiliently flexible materials and includes one or more radiation sensitive layers for recording the latent image, as well as a mordant, or other appropriate layer, for receiving a visibly presentable image that is established during processing of the latent-image. Since this element serves to support both the latent image and the visibly presentable image, it sometimes is referred to as an integral negative receiver.

The process sheet 13 also is defined by resiliently flexible materials, and cooperates with the photosensitive element to provide a flat rectangular unit having straight edges and square corners, as well as other properties facilitating its handling in photographic apparatus. While the lateral edges of the sheet are permanently secured to the photosensitive element, as previously mentioned, the central portions are resiliently separable to permit distribution of the processing fluid, and the ends are free to permit introduction of the fluid between the element and sheet at the leading end and collection of any excess from therebetween at the trailing end.

Further details of the photosensitive element and process sheet are described and illustrated in the previously mentioned U.S. Applications Ser. Nos. 869,186 and 43; 322; and in commonly assigned, copending U.S. Application Ser. No. 70,836, entitled Film Unit, and filed on Sept. 9, 1970 in the name of H. Nerwin.

The preferred image-recording portion is adapted to be exposed and viewed from opposite sides, with the image-receiving or mordant being located where it is visible (in the case of a reflection print) from a first side 17 (FIG. 4), and the radiation sensitive layers being exposable from the opposite side 19 (FIGS. 2 and 3 Such viewing and exposure can be permitted by using transparent materials, both as a support for the image-receiving or mordant layer, and as the process sheet, to define substantially clear protective coverings on both sides of the recording portion.

While the major area of the image-recording portion on the first side thereof is intended to be occupied by the final print, it also will ordinarily include a white and preferably uniform border 21 that surrounds the circumferential portions of the print in a well known manner.

Although the present invention has particular utility with image-recording portions of the above described type, at least certain of its features also are applicable to other types, such as integral units that are adapted to be exposed and viewed from the same side, as disclosed in previously mentioned U.S. Pat. No. 3,415,644, or certain embodiments of peel-apart units.

Processing Fluid Accommodating Means The preferred fluid accommodating means includes the supply mechanism 7 for discharging the procesing fluid between the photosensitive element and process sheet at the leading end of the unit, and the collecting mechanism 9 for receiving any excess of the fluid from therebetween at the trailing end.

The supply mechanism can take many different forms, ranging from those having many different parts, with each serving separate functions, to those having only one or a few parts, with each serving many functions. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the supply mechanism encompasses three basic parts comprising a container or pod 23 of the processing fluid, a funnel or conduit 25 for directing the processing fluid from the container to the leading end of the image-recording portion between the photosensitive element and process sheet, and a support or carrier 27 that also is adapted to serve as a covering element in a manner to be described hereinafter.

Container 23 includes various vapor impervious and appearance-improving materials, such as a plastic inner layer, a lead-foil intermediate layer and an outer paper wrapping, that contribute to provide a relatively stiff or nonresilient structure as compared to the image-recording portion. The container is sealed around its periphery to provide a cavity for the processing fluid, but is adapted to release that fluid from one edge 29 upon the application to the container of a mechanical stress usually provided by juxtaposed pressure-applying members 31 in related photographic apparatus such as the camera 15 (FIG. 1).

Funnel or conduit 25 is defined by adjacent sheets 33 and 34 (FIG. 5), and includes first separable edges 35 that receive the rupturable edge 29 of the container therebetween, as well as second contacting edges 36 that are inserted between the separable leading ends of the photosensitive element and process sheet. The funnel is particularly well adapted for directing processing fluid discharged from the container to a location at the leading end of the image-recording portion with little or no possibility of leakage. Other features of the funnel are described hereinafter in connection with coupling of the supply mechanism to the image-recording portion and the relative movement of such mechanism and portion between the respective positions illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4.

The support or carrier 27 is constructed from relatively stiff material, such as paper or cardboard, and defines a substantially flat rectangular element having straight edges and square corners. For purposes to become more apparent hereinafter, the rectangular element has substantially the same width as the image-recording portion and subtends an area that, when combined with the area of a similar element forming part of the collecting mechanism, substantially equals the area defined by the image-recording portion. In the preferred embodiment, this length is substantially equal to one half the length of the last mentioned portion. The previously mentioned container 23 and funnel 25 are permanently attached to one side of the carrier, and this side preferably is treated with a suitable material for facilitating such attachment, as Well as for protecting the carrier from any of the processing fluid. The side of the carrier opposite from the container, on the other hand, provides a surface that is suitable for receiving ink or other writing materials to facilitate print identification.

The fluid collecting mechanism or trap 9 includes a support or carrier 37, that is substantially identical to the carrier 27, and a fluid-receiving structure 38 for collecting any excess of the processing fluid from the trailing end of the recording portion. As will become more apparent hereinafter, it is preferable that the collecting structure be thin, both before and after receiving the excess fluid, but its peripheral dimensions need only be within the confines of its carrier. For this reason it has been illustrated as a folded over piece of flexible sheet material 39 suitably sealed around three edges in a manner insuring confinement without leakage of any processing fluid received therein. Since the illustrated film unit is intended to be used with apparatus having stepped pressure-applying members, as described in previously mentioned application Ser. No. 70,836, the collecting mechanism need not be provided with internal spacers or the like that often are used for separating the pressure members as the trailing end of the film unit passes therebetween. At its leading edges 41, the folded sheet is coupled to the image-recording portion in any appropriate manner insuring that all of the processing fluid will be directed into the collecting mechanism with little or no possibility of leakage.

Additional Cooperating Features, and Operation of the Film Unit The supply and collecting mechanisms are permanently attached to the image-recording portion by suitable adhesives, or the like, that are represented by the shaded areas in FIG. 5. Such adhesives are selected and applied to cooperate with the sealed lateral edges of the imagerecording portion for providing a completely closed system, both during and after processing, that essentially eliminates any significant likelihood that deleterious components of the processing fluid will escape therefrom. This is not meant, however, to preclude any desirable escape from the system of water or other possible neutral components of the fluid.

Additionally, the relatively stiff components of the supply and collecting mechanisms are spaced slightly from the image-recording portion by flexible materials, such as the funnel 25 and the leading edges of the folded over sheet 39, to provide an easily foldable joint that facilitates folding, without interference, of the supply and collecting mechanisms relative to the image-recording portion.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, and to the operation of the film unit, it is intended to be supplied in a laid-out condition with the supply and collecting mechanisms extending outwardly from and in substantially the same plane as the image-recording portion at the leading and trailing ends thereof, respectively. After exposure of the photosensitive element, in the camera 15, for example, the film unit is transported between a pair of juxtaposed pressure-applying members 31, to effect the processing of the latent image and the establishment of a visible image, by rupturing the container 23, distributing the processing fluid between the photosensitive element 11 and process sheet 13, and collecting of any excess fluid in the collecting structure 39. As described in the previously mentioned U.S. Application Ser. No. 869,186, the process ing fluid preferably includes an opacifier, that cooperates with an opaque layer in the photosensitive element, to permit immediate withdrawal of the film unit from the camera when processing is completed.

During processing, the supply and collecting mechanisms provide convenient appendages for handling of the unit without contacting the image-recording portion. After processing, however, these appendages tend to detract from the aesthetic appearance of the finished print, at least insofar as photographers have become used to conventional prints having uniform borders. Additionally, the appendages increase the overall length of the print, making its storage difficult or ineflicient in albums, or the like.

Referring now to FIGS. 2-5, the present invention eliminates these and other problems, and will result in still further advantages, by providing for movement of at least portions of the fluid accommodating means, such as supply and collecting mechanisms, from first positions removed from the back or second side of the image-recording portion, to second positions covering the second side thereof. The first positions preferably are those illustrated in FIG. 2, wherein the supply and collecting mechanisms lie in substantially the same plane as the image-recording portion, for efliciently serving their intended supply and collecting functions, while the second positions preferably are those illustrated in FIG. 4, wherein the mechanisms flatly engage and preferably are adhered to the back-side of the final print. Moreover, the movement between such positions preferably is by folding of the mechanisms 180 along lines where they are attached to the leading and trailing ends of the image-recording portion. As previously mentioned, such folding is facilitated by the flexible nature of the attaching elements along such lines, and by the slight spacing of the supply and collecting mechanisms from the image-recording portion. Additionally, the folding can be accomplished without adversely affecting the liquid tightness of the system, and in fact can provide or enhance any means preventing flow of the processing fluid between the image-recording portion and the accommodating means.

In accordance with particularly advantageous features of the invention, the foldable supply and collecting mechanisms are equal in width to the image-recording portion, and together subtend an area equal to the image-recording portion, such that the mechanisms cooperate in their folded condition to completely cover its second side and to define a smooth, flat back for the print. Moreover, where these equal widths and areas are defined by the

carriers

27 and 37 of the supply and collecting mechanisms, these carriers will serve as covers for capturing the fluid container or pod 23 and the collector or trap 39 between the carriers and the second side of the imagerecording portion. In this manner, the appearance of the print is further improved and the sealed enclosure prevents the escape of any remaining fluid in the fluid accommodating means.

Still other advantages can be accomplished by selection of the materials or form of the supply and collecting mechanisms or their carriers. For example, in their folded conditions, the mechanisms can serve to stiffen the final print and to provide a convenient paper surface, or the like, to facilitate writing or the placing of other identifying indicium on the back of the print. Moreover, since the mechanisms preferably are equal in area to the area of the image-recording portion, the container or pod and collector or trap can have relatively large peripheral dimensions, with corresponding small or flat thickness dimensions, while still having sufficient capacity to handle an appropriate amount and excess of the processing fluid. This, in turn, facilitates the design of flat film packs and cameras for use with assemblages of the film units. Still further, the relatively stiff properties of the mechanisms or their carriers facilitate their handling in photographic apparatus such as the camera illustrated in FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, an alternative embodiment incorporating certain features of the invention is illustrated, comprising an image-recording, portion 51, and processing-fluid accommodating means, including supply and collecting

mechanisms

53 and 55, respectively. While this embodiment is similar in operation to the preferred embodiment described above, the respective areas of the supply and collecting mechanisms have been changed in proportion, such that the collecting mechanism is equal in area to two-thirds of the image-recording portion while the area of the supply mechanism is only one-third thereof. Such an arrangement permits the use of a collecting structure or trap 57 that can be even flatter than that of the preferred embodiment after receiving the same excess of processing fluid. Little or no loss of flatness after use is suffered in the container or pod 59, since this element is substantially empty at that time and therefore need be no thicker than the materials from which it is made.

Additionally, in this embodiment, the supply and collecting mechanisms have been reduced in their number of parts, as compared to the previously described embodiment, by eliminating the carriers and pod funnel, and by utilizing the remaining parts for several cooperating functions. Thus, the container or pod 59 continues beyond its rupturable seal 61 to define a flexible extension 63 that provides the funnel or conduit as well as the means for attaching the container to the image-recording portion. Still further, the stiffness of the supply mechanism, that is preferred for its covering function, is provided by the lead-foil layer 65 of its containing part, this layer being discontinued outside of the flexible connecting portion. Similarly, the collecting structure 57 is constructed from a suitable material, such as wax-treated paper, that serves both to retain the processing fluid and to define a flexible portion 67 for facilitating folding of the mechanism.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SECOND ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT Still another embodiment of certain features of the invention are illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, comprising an image-recording portion and processing-fluids accommodating means in the form of a supply mechanism 77.

In this embodiment, the collecting structure or trap has been eliminated, or otherwise accounted for, such that it is not intended to be a part of the foldable portions of the film unit. The area subtended by the supply structure or its carrier, on the other hand, has been increased to equal and completely cover the entire second side of the image-recording portion.

It should now be apparent that the present invention provides a self-processing film unit having unique structural features and significant advantages not present in previously known units of this general type. Moreover, at least certain features of the invention have special utility and advantages in preregistered, integral film units, and especially when applied to such film units that are adapted to be exposed and viewed from opposite sides thereof.

When all of its features are combined, the present invention can provide a substantially closed fluid handling system that substantially eliminates any probability of leakage. Moreover, the various fluid accommodating means are accounted for after processing without requiring their separation from the rest of the film unit or having to' accept their detraction from the aesthetic appearance of the final print. In fact, while such means previously were usually considered waste after processing had been initiated, in accordance with the present invention they can be utilized for handling the film unit during processing and for enhancing various properties of the print after its processing. Still further, the film units are particularly conducive to use with simplified camera mechanisms and relatively flat film packs and cameras.

While the photosensitive element and process sheet have been defined in the preferred embodiment as being resiliently flexible, it should be understood that they comprise relatively stiff sections when compared to the relatively flexible means coupling the supply and collecting mechanisms to the image-recording portion. Similarly, the carriers for the container and collector have been described as being relatively stiff in the preferred embodiment, but this is not intended to preclude the use of resiliently flexible sections therefor. In fact, at least in accordance with certain features of the invention, nonresilient and/or substantially flexible sections could be utilized, for example, where stiffening of the final print is not desired. Still further, certain features of the invention do not require that the moveable or foldable sections be coupled to or even cooperate with a fluid accommodating means, since, in accordance with such features, such sections have advantages independent of moving, covering or hiding the accommodating means.

In the preferred embodiment, the moveable or foldable sections have been described and illustrated as sections separate from the photosensitive element and process sheet. However, it is within the scope of certain features of the present invention to utilize an extended portion of the photosensitive element or process sheet as the moveable sections, with an appropriate crease or the like providing the flexible coupling between such sections and the image-recording section.

It also should be understood that the term processing fluid has been used in a very broad sense, to include, for example, viscous compositions, gels, reagents, water and possible other means for effecting processing of such film units.

The invention has been described in detail with particular reference to a preferred embodiment thereof, but it will be understood that variations and modifications can be effected within the spirit and scope of the invention.

I claim:

1. In a photographic film unit comprising at least two sections each having first and second opposed surfaces, one of said sections comprising an image-recording section and including a photosensitive element for recording a latent image that is processable upon the application of an activating fluid to form a visible image which is viewable at the first surface thereof, the improvement comprising:

said sections being relatively stitf sheet-like members,

and relatively flexible means substantially permanently connecting said sheet-like sections together for relative movement therebetween,

said sections being movable after application of the activating fluid from a substantially coplanar relationship into position for permanent attachment of the second surfaces in face-to-face relationship so that at least a portion of said second surface of said image-recording section is covered with the other of said sections whereby said visible image is viewable at the first surface of said image-recording section.

2. A photographic film unit as claimed in Claim 1, wherein said second surface of said image-recording section is substantially entirely covered when said sections are moved into said face-to-face relationship.

3. A photographic film unit as claimed in Claim 1, wherein said film unit includes means for supplying the activating fluid to be applied to said photosensitive element, said supply means being movable by relative movement of said sections from a first position removed from said second surface of said image-recording section to a second position engaging said second surface.

4. A photographic film unit as claimed in Claim 3, wherein said film unit includes means for collecting excess of the activating fluid to be applied to said photosensitive element, said collecting means being movable by relative movement of said sections from a first position removed from said second surface of said image-record ing section to a second position engaging said second surface.

5. In a photographic film assemblage comprising:

a substantially flat image-recording unit having leading and trailing ends and first and second edges defining a rectangular area having first and second surfaces, said recording unit including a photosensitive element for recording a latent image that is processable by distributing a processing composition over the element to effect the establishment of a photographic image visible within the rectangular area from the first surface of the image-recording unit;

a processing fluid accommodating means including a container for supplying a processing fluid to the leading end of the image-recording unit for distribution over the photosensitive element, and means for collecting any excess of the processing fluid after its distribution, the improvement comprising:

said accommodating means including a portion movable from one position removed from both surfaces of said image-recording unit to another position engaging the second surface of said image-recording unit;

means substantially permanently and flexibly attached to said image-recording unit for covering the second surface of said image-recording unit with said movable portion of said accommodating means between said cover means and said second surface of said image-recording unit, said cover means being movable relative to said image-recording unit between a first position removed from said second surface of said imagerecording unit and a second position covering said second surface, said cover means being substantially flat and having a rectangular area substantially equal to the rectangular area of said image-recording unit for covering said second surface and said movable portion of said accommodating means in the second position of said cover means; and means for retaining said cover means in said second position.

6. The invention claimed in Claim 5, wherein said film assemblage includes a plurality of said image-recording units, accommodating means and cover means, arranged in stacked relationship.

7. The invention claimed in Claim 5, wherein said cover means carries said movable portion of said accommodating means, said cover means being relatively stiff and foldable adjacent said image-recording unit from said first position to said second position.

8. The invention claimed in Claim 5, wherein folding of the said cover means from its first to its second position also alfects movement of said movable portion of said accommodating means from its one position to its other position engaging the second side of the image-recording unit.

9. The invention claimed in Claim 8, wherein said movable portion includes said container for supplying the processing composition.

10. In a photographic film unit comprising:

a substantially flat image-recording structure having first and second surfaces having width and length dimensions, said structure including a photosensitive element for recording a latent image that is processable by distributing a processing composition over said element to affect the establishment of an image visible from said first surface of said image-record ing structure, and a process sheet for aiding in the distribution of the processing composition over said photosensitive element;

a container of processing composition coupled to the leading end of said photosensitive element for supplying the processing composition to be distributed over said element;

a fluid collecting mechanism coupled to the trailing end of said photosensitive element for collecting any excess of the processing composition after its distribution over said element; the improvement comprising:

means substantially permanently connected to said image-recording structure and underlying said container and said collecting mechanism for folding said container and mechanism between first extended positions removed from said second surface and second positions against said second surface of said image-recording structure, and for covering said second surface of said image-recording structure in said second positions of said means with said container and collecting mechanisms between said means and said second surface; and means for retaining said folding means in said second positions.

11. In a photographic film unit comprising:

a resilient image-recording portion having leading and trailing ends and first and second edges defining a plane having first and second surfaces, said imagerecording portion including a photosensitive element for recording a latent image that is processable to establish a visible image viewable from the first surface of the image-recording portion, and a process sheet permanently attached to the photosensitive element for aiding in the distribution of a processing fluid over said element to effect such processing;

a relatively stiff container of processing fluid, said container being rupturable for discharging said fluid; the improvement comprising:

means for permanently attaching said container to said leading end of said image-recording portion and for directing said fluid, after it is discharged, to said leading end for distribution between said photosensitive element and process sheet, said attaching means including a section adjacent said leading end that is less resilient than said image-recording portion and less stiff than said container to facilitate folding of said container between one position extending away from and in substantially the same plane as said image-recording portion and another position against said second surface of said image-recording portion;

and means for retaining said container in said other position.

12. A photographic film unit as claimed in Claim 11, comprising:

a relatively stiff fluid collecting mechanism for receiving any excess of the processing fluid, after it has been distributed; and

means for permanently attaching said collecting mechanism to said trailing end of said image-recording portion and for directing such excess into the mechanism from between said photosensitive element and process sheet, said last mentioned attaching means including a section adjacent said trailing end that is less resilient than said image-recording portion and less stifl? than said collecting mechanism for facilitating folding of said mechanism between one position extending away from and in substantially the same plane as said image-recording portion and another position against the second surface of said imagerecording portion.

13. A photographic film unit comprising:

a substantially flat image-recording portion for recording a latent image that is processable to establish a visible image, said recording portion defining leading and trailing ends, a first surface from which the visible image is adapted to be viewed, and a second surface;

a container for supplying a processing composition to the image-recording portion to effect processing of the latent image and establishment of the visible image;

means for substantially permanently coupling said container to said leading end of said image-recording portion, said coupling means being readily bendable to permit folding of said container from a first position removed from said second surface to a second position in engagement with said second surface; and means for retaining said container in said second position.

14. The invention claimed in Claim 12 comprising:

collecting means for receiving any excess of the processing composition; and

means for substantially permanently coupling said collecting means to said trailing end of said image-recording unit, said last mentioned coupling means being bendable to permit folding of said collecting means from a first position removed from second surface to a second position in engagement with said second surface.

15. In a self-processing film unit, comprising:

an image-recording portion for recording a processable latent image, said portion defining at least one flat surface;

reservoir means for receiving a processing fluid effective to process the latent image; the improvement comprising:

means substantially permanently coupling said reservoir means and said image-recording portion for movement of said reservoir means between a first position removed from said flat surface and a second position engaging said flat surface of said image-recording portion; and means for retaining said reservoir means in said second position.

16. A self-processing film unit as claimed in Claim 15, wherein said reservoir means comprises a container for supplying the processing fluid to said image-recording portion.

17. A self-processing film unit as claimed in Claim 15, wherein said reservoir means comprises a collector for receiving any excess of the processing fluid from said image-recording portion.

(References on following page) References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS RONALD H. SMITH, Primary Examiner J. L. GOODROW, Assistant Examiner Nerwin 96-76 R Harvey 9676 R US. Cl. X.R. Land 95-13 UX 5 -13 Nerwin 9676 R