JP2000171961A - Compact device and method for thermal film development - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To facilitate processing at a small-scale office and home by incorporating a heater and a light-shielded container for developing a thermal film when the thermal film passes between a cartridge and an accumulator. SOLUTION: A developing device 10 has a light shielding property so that the thermal film is not exposed before thermal development. This device has a light-shielding door which is opened to insert a thrust cartridge. The device 10 includes a chamber 14 for receiving the thrust cartridge 16. The thrust cartridge has the film 18 which is passed into the accumulator 24 when it is unpacked. Then the film 18 is wound around the accumulator 24. The accumulator 24 is driven by a motor 25 arranged in the accumulator 24. Then when the film 18 passes between the thrust cartridge 16 and accumulator 24, the film passes by a heater 22.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for processing a heat developable film. More particularly, the present invention relates to a compact apparatus and method for developing a film by applying heat to the film.

[0002]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In the conventional practice of color photography, silver halide films are developed by a chemical technique which requires several steps consisting of latent image development, bleaching and fixing. Although this technique has been developed over the years and has resulted in very good images, it requires some liquid chemical solutions and strict control of the time and temperature of development. Furthermore, conventional silver halide chemical development techniques are not particularly suitable for use in compact developing equipment. This chemical technique is also not easily implemented in homes or small offices.

[0003] Image forming systems that do not rely on conventional wet processing have received increasing attention in recent years. Photothermographic imaging systems have been used to form silver images. Typically, these imaging systems exhibit very low levels of radiation sensitivity and have been used primarily where only very low imaging speed sensitivity is required. The most common use of photothermographic elements is in the copying of documents and radiographic images. A method and apparatus for developing a thermally developed film is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,587,767 to Islam et al. The outline of the photothermographic image forming system is described in Research Disclosure (Research Disclosure).
re), Volume 170, June 1978, Item (It)
em) 17029 and Volume 299, March 1989, Item 29996. Thermally developed films have not generally been used in color photography. However, heat-developable color photographic materials, for example,
erquone et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,021,240 and Taguchi et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,698,365, issued to Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company.
ning and ManufacturingC
o. ) Supplied by Color Dry Silver (Co
lor Dry Silver) and Pictography (PICT) supplied by Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
ROGRAPHY ™ (trademark) and Pictrostat (PI
Commercial products such as CTROSTAT ™ have been launched. Further, GB 2,318,645 discloses an imaging element capable of providing a retained visible image when imagewise exposed and heated.
It has been proposed that such elements can include photographic color thermal films that provide satisfactory pictures.

[0004] A recent innovation in the field of color negative films is the use of thrust cartridges containing color negative films. Such a cartridge is known as Robert
U.S. Patent No. 4,834,306 to Son et al.
No. 5,003,334 to Ano et al. The film contained in such a thrust cartridge may contain a magnetic layer that allows the recording of information during exposure and development of the film. Such a film is disclosed in Sakakibara, US Pat.
No. 5,874. The films and cartridges may include additional provisions for data storage, such as DX barcode data and frame number barcode data. Such elements are disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,032,85 to Smart et al.
4, U.S. Patent No. 5,229, to Lemberger et al.
No. 585 and U.S. Pat.
No. 5,628. Further, the thrust cartridge is made lighttight so that unexposed or imagewise exposed film rewound into the cartridge can be stored in the cartridge without further exposing the film. be able to. These thrust cartridge films are for copying,
It has the advantage that it can be more easily processed for digital reading and storage.

[0005]

There is a need for a compact color film system that can be easily processed and utilized in a small office or home.

[0006]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art apparatus and method for thermal films and the complex and cumbersome procedures for wet processing conventional films.

Another object is to provide a method for improving the development of a thermal film in a thrust cartridge. Another object is to provide more convenient and faster processing of thermal film for individual users.

[0008] These and other objects of the present invention are a thrust cartridge receiving chamber, drive means for advancing a thermal film from the thrust cartridge and rewinding the film into the thrust cartridge.
An accumulator for collecting the film after it exits the cartridge, disposed between the chamber and the accumulator for developing the thermal film as the thermal film passes between the cartridge and the accumulator This is achieved by an apparatus for thermal development comprising a heater and a light-shielding container for the chamber, heater and accumulator.

[0009]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention has a number of advantages over prior art methods in the treatment of thermal films, particularly those contained in thrust cartridges. The system of the present invention has the advantage that an individual user of a thermal film cartridge can process the cartridge in a convenient and low cost system. The present invention has the further advantage of providing a means for easily connecting the system to a personal computer for control and development of the thermal film. The present invention
It provides a device for individual users that provides rapid development while having low power requirements. The present invention provides devices and methods that are easily mobile. These and other advantages are:
It will be apparent from the detailed description below.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, a compact developing device 10 is provided. Apparatus 10 is light-tight so that the thermal film is not exposed to light prior to thermal development. The device has a light-tight door 12 for opening and inserting a thrust cartridge. Apparatus 10
Is further provided with electrical contacts 36 for providing power and control to the device. As shown in FIG. 4, the device 10 includes:
Chamber 1 for receiving thrust cartridge 16
4 inclusive. The thrust cartridge has a film 18 that passes into the accumulator 24 when it is unwound. Next, the film 18 is applied to the accumulator 24.
Wound up. The accumulator 24 is driven by a motor 26 arranged in the accumulator 24. In FIG. 5, the drive for cartridge 16 is:
It is shown transmitted from the motor 26. The motor 26 is transmitted by a drive sprocket 28 through a series of gears 32 to a sprocket 34, which simultaneously drives the film from the thrust cartridge 16 as the film is wound into the accumulator 24. As the film 18 passes between the thrust cartridge 16 and the accumulator 24, the film passes through the heater 22.

In FIG. 6, the film 18 is shown passing through guide rollers 38 and 39, and a heater 22 is provided to move the heater 22 into and out of the path of the film 18. Is shown as being supported by an armature 40 which can be actuated by a motor 46 disposed in the accumulator 24 by a gear assembly 42. The mechanism is configured to operate the armature in response to preset conditions or in response to signals provided by sensors 44 and 45. Sensors 44 and 45 provide film speed, film position, temperature, frame advance.
) and are designed to monitor a number of parameters including fault conditions such as film breakage, film jams and heater malfunctions.

[0012] The heater 22 used in the apparatus of the present invention may be any suitable type of heater. Heaters for this device include radiant heaters, heated liquids, dielectrics, microwaves,
Including heat conduction and convection. Preferred for the device of the present invention is a resistance heater in the form of a plate. This is because it gives the heat developable film maximum heat transfer efficiency. Other types of resistive heaters, such as a series of heater bars or grids, can also be used. Preferred resistive heater plates for the present invention are generally about 2-5 cm in length for a reasonable drive speed of the film with a suitable exposure time to the temperature of development.

The thrust cartridge may be any cartridge capable of withdrawing and rewinding the film from the cartridge multiple times, providing light tight storage, especially prior to exposure and development. Typical of such cartridges are advanced photo systems (advance) for color negative films.
d photo system) (APS). These cartridges are available from Robert
US Pat. No. 4,834,306 to Tson et al. and Ro.
Bertson is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,832,275.

[0014] The thermal film used in the present invention can be any film that provides a satisfactory image. A typical film is disclosed in U.S. Pat.
No. 698,365, which is a full-color thermal film. A typical film comprises a light-sensitive silver halide, a compound forming a dye, a compound releasing a dye, a coupler as a dye-donating compound, a reducing agent and a binder on a support. A typical film may also include an organometallic salt oxidizing agent and an antifoggant. Other components as known in the photographic and photothermographic arts may be included. These components can be added in the same layer or a separate layer on the film base. A wide range of colors can be obtained by using a combination of at least three silver halide emulsion layers, each having photosensitivity in a different spectral region. The thermal film may be provided with various auxiliary layers such as a protective layer, an undercoat layer, an intermediate layer, an antihalation layer, and a back layer. Each layer can be arranged in various ways as is known for conventional color photographic materials. Filter dyes may be included in some layers.

Photosensitive elements or films useful in the practice of the present invention are provided in a thrust cartridge or cassette. The thrust cartridge is Kataka
U.S. Patent No. 5,226,613, Zander U.S. Patent No. 5,200,777, Dowling et al. U.S. Patent No. 5,031,852, Pagano et al. U.S. Patent No. 5,003,334 and Robertson
U.S. Patent No. 4,834,306. These thrust cartridges may be refillable cameras specifically designed to receive such film cassettes, cameras fitted with adapters designed to receive such film cassettes, or to receive such cassettes. Can be used with designed disposable cameras. A thin body disposable camera suitable for using a thrust cartridge is disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,692,2, Tobioka et al.
No. 21 explains this. Although the film can be used and loaded into the camera by any method known in the art, it is particularly preferred that the film be used and loaded into the camera so that it is wound up by a thrust cartridge upon exposure.

Elements having excellent photosensitivity are best used in the practice of the present invention. This element is at least about ISO
It should have a sensitivity of 50, preferably have a sensitivity of at least about ISO 200, and more preferably have a sensitivity of at least about ISO 400. ISO32
Elements having a sensitivity of less than or equal to 00 or higher are specifically contemplated. The speed sensitivity or speed of a color negative photographic element is inversely related to the exposure required to enable a specific density higher than fog after processing. The photographic speed sensitivity for a color negative element having a gamma of about 0.65 in each color record is based on ANSI standard number P
H2.27-1981 (ISO (ASA Speed Sensitivity)), which is specially defined by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). For each of the green light-sensitive and minimum light-sensitive color recording units of a color film,
Particularly relevant is the average exposure level required to produce a density of 0.15 above fog. This definition is consistent with the International Standards Organization (ISO) film speed sensitivity rating.
For the purposes of this disclosure, a color unit gamma of 0.
If different from 65, the ASA or ISO speed sensitivity is to linearly expand or contract the gamma vs. log E (exposure) curve to a value of 0.65 before determining the speed sensitivity by another definition method. Need to be calculated by

Elements useful in the present invention include at least one containing developing agent which can be supplied in protected or unprotected form as known in the art. When supplied in a protected form, the protected developing agent is deprotected by heating as is known in the art. Useful developing agent types include aminophenols, paraphenylenediamines and hydrazides, all as known in the art. Useful types of protected developing agents include sulfonamidophenols, carbonamidophenols,
Carbamyl phenol, sulfonamide analine (su
lphonamidoanalines), carbonamidoanaline, carbamylanaline, sulfonylhydrazine, carbonylhydrazine, carbamylhydrazine and the like. Multiple heterogeneous developing agents (multiple d
istinct developing agent
s) can be used. When heated, the developing agent reacts with the oxidizing agent contained to form an oxidized developing agent. The oxidized developing agent then reacts with the color former to form a non-diffusible dye. In one embodiment, the oxidized developing agent reacts with the chromogenic coupler to form a non-diffusible dye. In another embodiment, the oxidized developing agent reacts with the leuco dye to form a non-diffusible dye. In yet another embodiment, the oxidized developing agent reacts with a colorless dye precursor to release a non-diffusible colored dye, all as known in the art. The oxidizing agent included may be any oxidizing agent suitable for reacting with the reduced form of the color developing agent. In one embodiment, the sensitized silver halide can function as a contained oxidizing agent. In a preferred embodiment, the heterogeneous metal salt can function as a contained oxide. In the latter case, organic silver salts as known in the art are preferred. Silver behenate, silver benzotriazole derivatives, silver acetylenic derivatives and silver amino heterocyclic derivatives are particularly preferred types of oxidizing agents contained. The element may also include a pH changing base or base precursor as known in the art. Further, the element may include a secondary developing agent or an electron transfer agent as known in the art. Specific useful classes are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,698,365 previously cited by Taguchi et al.

Typical color film constructions useful in the practice of this invention are shown below. Element SCN-1 SOC Surface overcoat BU Blue recording layer unit IL1 First intermediate layer GU Green recording layer unit IL2 Second intermediate layer RU Red recording layer unit AHU Anti-halation layer unit S Support SOC Surface overcoat

The support S can be reflective or transparent, which is usually preferred. When reflective, the support is white and can take the form of any of the common supports currently used in color print elements. When the support is transparent, it may be colorless or lightly colored and any of the common supports currently used in color negative elements as long as they have the strength and thermal stability properties otherwise noted above. For example, in the form of a colorless or light-colored transparent film support. The details of the construction of the support are well understood in the art. The support is thin enough to allow the loading of long objects in roll form, while maintaining sufficient strength to resist deformation and tear during use. This support generally has a thickness of about 180 μm or less, preferably 5 μm or less.
The thickness is from 0 to 130 μm, most preferably from 60 to 110 μm. The flexibility of the support and the element is such that the element
It is such that it can exhibit a radius of curvature smaller than 000 μm, preferably smaller than or less than 6,500 μm. Elements that are useful with a radius of curvature of 1,400 μm or less without cracks or other physical deformations are contemplated. When the element is supplied in cartridge form, the cartridge may contain a housing to protect the photosensitive photographic element and the film element in roll form from exposure and an opening for withdrawing the element from the cartridge container. Transparent and reflective support configurations, including an adhesion enhancing subbing layer, are described in Research Disclosure, Item 38957, XV. It is disclosed on the support.

Each of the blue, green and red recording layer units BU, GU and RU is formed from one or more hydrophilic colloid layers and comprises at least one radiation-sensitive silver halide emulsion and at least one And color formers including dye image forming agents. In the simplest contemplated configuration, each of the layer units consists of one hydrophilic colloid layer containing an emulsion and a color former. When the color former present in the layer units is coated in a hydrophilic colloid layer other than the emulsion-containing layer, the color former-containing hydrophilic colloid layer receives an oxidized color developing agent from the emulsion during development. Are arranged as follows. Usually, the color former-containing layer is the next adjacent hydrophilic colloid layer to the emulsion-containing layer.

[0021] To ensure excellent image sharpness,
All sensitized layers are preferred for ease of use in
Alternatively, they are arranged on a common surface of the support. In spool form
When the element is unraveled in the camera,
Before hitting the surface of the support carrying these layers,
It is wound to hit the club. In addition, exposed on the element
On the support to ensure excellent sharpness of the
The total thickness of the layer units must be controlled. General
Of the sensitized layer, the intermediate layer and the protective layer on the exposed surface of the support.
The total thickness is less than 35 μm. Total layer thickness is 28μm
Preferably, the total layer thickness is less than 22 μm
More preferably, the total layer thickness is less than 17 μm
Is most preferred. This constraint on total layer thickness
Represents the total amount of photosensitive silver halide as described below.
Vehicle and color formation by control and in layers
By controlling the total amount of other ingredients such as agents, solvents, etc.
It becomes possible. The total amount of vehicle is generally 20 g / m
^TwoLess than 14 g / m^TwoLess than, more preferably
10g / m^TwoIs less than. Generally, the support during processing
To ensure the adhesion of the layer to the layer and the proper isolation of the layer components
At least 3 g / m ^TwoVehicle, preferably low
At least 5g / m^TwoVehicles exist. Similarly, other
The total amount of components is generally 12 g / m^TwoLess than, preferably
8g / m^TwoLess than 5 g / m^TwoLess than
You.

In another embodiment, a color forming layer is applied to both sides of the support, all of which are described in US Pat. Nos. 5,744,290 and 5,773,205 to Szajewski et al.
As described in the article, a duplicated film suitable for use in a camera can be formed. The emulsion in the BU can form a latent image when exposed to blue light. When the emulsion contains high bromide silver halide grains, and especially in the radiation-sensitive grains, small amounts (0.5 to 20 mol%, preferably 1 to 10 mol%, based on silver) of iodide are also present. The natural sensitivity of the particles can depend on the absorption of blue light. Preferably, the emulsion is spectrally sensitized with one or more blue spectral sensitizing dyes. The emulsions in GU and RU were, in all cases, green and red spectrally sensitized, respectively, because silver halide emulsions do not have intrinsic sensitivity to green and / or red (minus blue) light. Spectral sensitize with dye. As is known in the art, blue-green and green-red sensitive emulsions can also be used. In this situation, the blue light is typically 40
Green light is generally light having a wavelength of 500 to 600 nm, and red light is generally light having a wavelength of 600 to 700 nm.

Optionally and conveniently selected from among the conventional radiation-sensitive silver halide emulsions can be included in the layer units. Radiation-sensitive, silver chloride,
Silver bromide, silver iodobromide, silver iodochloride, silver chlorobromide, silver bromochloride, silver iodochlorobromide and silver iodobromochloride particles can be used. The particles may be regular or irregular (eg, tabular). Tabular grain emulsions, i.e., those in which tabular grains account for at least 50% (preferably at least 70%, optimally at least 90%) of the total grain projected area, increase speed sensitivity to granularity. It is particularly advantageous. To be considered tabular, a grain requires two major parallel planes, at least a ratio of its equivalent circular diameter (ECD) to thickness. Particularly preferred tabular grain emulsions are at least 4 and optimally 8
It has a larger tabular grain average aspect ratio. Preferred average tabular grain thicknesses are less than 0.3 μm (most preferably less than 0.2 μm). Ultrathin tabular grain emulsions, ie, those having an average tabular grain thickness of less than 0.07 μm, are particularly preferred. The particles preferably form a surface latent image such that they produce a negative image when processed in a surface developer. In the elements useful in the present invention, any useful amount of photosensitive silver as silver halide can be used, but it is preferred that the total amount be less than 10 g / m ² . Silver amounts less than 7 g / m ² are preferred, and silver amounts less than 5 g / m ^{2 are} more preferred. A lower amount of silver improves the optics of the element, thus allowing the use of this element to produce sharper pictures. These low amounts of silver are even more important in allowing rapid development and desilvering of the element. Conversely, while maintaining a suitably low granularity position of the picture it is intended to stretch, to realize the exposure latitude of at least 2.7 log E, the support surface area 1 m ² per coated in the element Silver coverage (coa) of at least 2 g of
Ting coverage) is required. The green light recording layer unit preferably has a silver coverage of at least 0.8 g / m ² . More preferably, the red and green units together have at least 1.7 g / m ² of coated silver, and each of the red, green and blue color units has at least 0.8 g / m ² of coated silver. More preferably, it has silver. It is generally preferred that the layer unit located on average closest to the support contains a silver coverage of the coated silver of at least 1.0 g / m ² , due to the less preferred position for processing. . Typically, this is a red recording layer unit. In many photographic applications, the optimal silver coverage is at least 0.9 g / m ² for the blue recording layer unit and at least 1.5 g / m ² for the green and red recording layer units.

Examples of conventional radiation-sensitive silver halide emulsions are described in Research Disclosure, Item 38957, cited above, Section I.A. Provided by emulsion grains and their manufacture. Chemical sensitization of emulsions, which can take any conventional form, is described in Section IV. Illustrated in chemical sensitization. Spectral sensitizers and sensitizing dyes, which can take any conventional form, are described in Section V. Illustrated in spectral sensitization and desensitization. The emulsion layer also typically contains one or more antifoggants or stabilizers, which may take any conventional form, as exemplified in Section VII. ing.

BU contains at least one yellow dye image forming agent, GU contains at least one magenta dye image forming agent, and RU contains at least one cyan dye image forming agent. Any convenient combination of conventional dye image forming agents can be used. Magenta dye-forming pyrazoloazole agents are specifically contemplated.
Conventional dye image-forming agents are described in Research Disclosure, Item 38957, X.C. Dye image forming agents and denaturing agents, B. Indicated by the image dye-forming coupler.

The remaining layers SOC and IL of the element SCN-1
1, IL2 and AHU are optional and can take any convenient conventional form. Intermediate layers IL1 and IL2
Is a hydrophilic colloid layer whose primary function is to reduce color contamination, ie, prevent the oxidized developing agent from migrating to the adjacent recording layer unit before reacting with the dye-forming agent. This intermediate layer is simply effective in part by increasing the diffusion path length through which the oxidized developing agent must travel. It is conventional practice to include an oxidized developing agent scavenger to increase the effectiveness of the interlayer for encapsulating the oxidized developing agent. When one or more silver halide emulsions in the GU and RU are high bromide emulsions and thus have a significant inherent sensitivity to blue light, Cary Lee (Carl)
eye Lea) It is preferable to include a yellow filter such as silver or a decolorizing dye in a yellow processing solution. Suitable yellow filter dyes are described in Research Disclosure, Item 38957, VIII. Absorbing and scattering materials, B. It can be selected from those exemplified by the absorbent material. Anti-stain (oxidative developing agent scavenger) is described in Research Disclosure, Item 38957, X.A. Dye image forming agents and denaturing agents, D.I.
Hue modifiers / stabilizers, which can be selected from those disclosed by paragraph (2).

The antihalation layer unit AHU typically comprises a removable or bleachable light absorbing material, such as one or a combination of pigments and dyes. Suitable materials include Research Disclosure, Item 3895
7, VIII. It can be selected from those disclosed in the absorbing material. A common alternative location for the AHU is between the support S and the recording layer unit coated closest to the support.

Surface overcoat SOC is a hydrophilic colloid layer provided for physical protection of the color negative element during handling and processing. Each SOC also
It provides a convenient place to contain the most effective additives at or near the surface of the color negative element. In one example, the surface overcoat divides into a surface layer and an intermediate layer, the latter acting as a spacer between additives in the surface layer and adjacent recording layer units. In another common different form, the additives are distributed between the surface layer and the intermediate layer, the latter comprising additives that are miscible with the adjacent recording layer unit. Most typically, the SOC is a coating aid such as that exemplified by Research Disclosure, Item 38957, IX.
Includes additives such as plasticizers and lubricants, antistatic agents and matting agents. The SOC overlying the emulsion layer is additionally preferably a Research Disclosure, Item 389
57, VI. UV dyes / optical brighteners / fluorescent dyes, including UV absorbers as exemplified in paragraph (1).

Instead of the layer unit sequence of element SCN-1, another layer unit sequence can be used, which is particularly attractive in some emulsion choices. By using high chloride emulsions and / or thin (average grain thickness, <0.2 μm) tabular grain emulsions, these emulsions exhibit negligible intrinsic sensitivity in the visible spectrum, and
All possible exchanges of U, GU and RU positions can be guaranteed without the risk of blue light contamination of minus blue records. For the same reason, it is not necessary to include a blue light absorber in the intermediate layer.

Preferably, one, two or three separate emulsion layers are coated into one dye image forming layer unit to obtain the required exposure latitude. When two or more emulsion layers are coated in one layer unit, they are typically selected to have different sensitivities. When a higher speed emulsion is coated over a lower speed emulsion, higher speed sensitivity and longer latitude are realized than when the two emulsions are blended.
When a lower sensitivity emulsion is coated over a higher sensitivity emulsion, higher contrast is achieved than when the two emulsions are blended. 3 in one layer unit
Triple coatings comprising two separate emulsion layers are disclosed in Chang et al., US Pat. Nos. 5,314,793 and 5,360,7.
A technique that facilitates extended exposure latitude, as exemplified by U.S. Pat.

When a layer unit consists of two or more emulsion layers, this unit can be divided into subunits, each of which contains an emulsion and a color former, one or both. Subunit of another layer unit. The following elements are examples.

Element SCN-2 SOC Surface overcoat BU Blue recording layer unit IL1 First intermediate layer FGU High sensitivity green recording layer subunit IL2 Second intermediate layer FRU High sensitivity red recording layer subunit

IL3 Third intermediate layer SGU Low sensitivity green recording layer subunit IL4 Fourth intermediate layer SRU Low sensitivity red recording layer subunit S Support AHU Antihalation layer unit SOC Surface overcoat

The green recording layer unit is a high sensitivity subunit F
Except for splitting the GU into low-sensitivity subunits SGU and the red recording layer unit splitting into high-sensitivity subunits FRU and low-sensitivity subunits SRU,
It is essentially similar to that described above from element SCN-1. The placement of the AHU relative to the S and the sensitizing layer may vary, as is known in the art, depending on the decolorizing properties of the concentration forming components contained in the AHU and the intended use of the element. Elements that use multiple AHU layers located on both sides of the S are specifically contemplated.

Element SCN-3 SOC Surface overcoat FBU High sensitivity blue recording layer unit IL1 First intermediate layer FGU High sensitivity green recording layer subunit IL2 Second intermediate layer FRU High sensitivity red recording layer subunit

IL3 Third intermediate layer MBU Medium sensitivity blue recording layer unit IL4 Fourth intermediate layer MGU Medium sensitivity green recording layer subunit IL5 Fifth intermediate layer MRU Medium sensitivity red recording layer subunit

IL6 Sixth intermediate layer SBU Low sensitivity blue recording layer subunit IL7 Seventh intermediate layer SGU Low sensitivity green recording layer subunit IL8 Eighth intermediate layer SRU Low sensitivity red recording layer subunit AHU Antihalation layer unit S Support SOC surface overcoat

Except for dividing the blue, green and red recording layers into high, medium and low sensitivity subunits, the configuration and configuration choices are essentially the same as those described above from element SCN-1.

The following layer sequence is also particularly useful: Element SCN-4 SOC Surface overcoat FBU High sensitivity blue recording layer unit MBU Medium sensitivity blue recording layer unit SBU Low sensitivity blue recording layer subunit

IL1 First intermediate layer FGU High sensitivity green recording layer subunit MGU Medium sensitivity green recording layer subunit SGU Low sensitivity green recording layer subunit

IL2 Second intermediate layer FRU High sensitivity red recording layer subunit MRU Medium sensitivity red recording layer subunit SRU Low sensitivity red recording layer subunit

IL3 Third intermediate layer AHU Antihalation layer unit S Support SOC Surface overcoat

Except for dividing the blue, green and red recording layers into high, medium and low sensitivity subunits, the configuration and configuration choices are essentially the same as described above from element SCN-1.

When the emulsion layers in the dye image-forming layer units differ in speed sensitivity, the content of the dye image-forming agent in the fastest speed-sensitive layer is limited below the stoichiometric amount on a silver basis. Doing is a common practice. The function of the highest speed sensitivity emulsion layer is just above the minimum density,
That is, to create a portion of the characteristic curve in the exposed area below the threshold sensitivity of the remaining emulsion layers or layers in the layer unit. In this way, the addition of the increased granularity to the dye image record in which the highest speed speed sensitive emulsion layer was made,
Minimize without compromising the imaging speed sensitivity.
Other details of film and camera properties that are particularly useful in the present invention are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,422,231 to Nozawa.
a and by Sow in US Patent No. 5,466,560.
Inski et al.

In the above discussion, the blue, green and red recording layer units contain yellow, magenta and cyan image dye formers, respectively, as is common practice in color negative elements used for printing. As described. In a color negative element of the present invention intended to be scanned to produce three separate electronic color records, the actual hue of the image dye produced is not important. What is essential is simply that the dye images produced in each of the layer units are distinguishable from those produced by each of the remaining layer units. To provide this discrimination capability, one or more of each of the layer units is selected to produce an image dye having a half-peak bandwidth present in a different spectral region. It is intended to contain the above dye image forming agents. The absorption half-peak bandwidth in the blue, green or red region of the spectrum, or in the layer unit, as the blue, green or red recording layer unit is typically a color negative element intended for use in printing. As long as the absorption half-peak bandwidth of the image dye extends the wavelength range that is not the same, it extends from near ultraviolet (300-400 nm) to visible and near infrared (700
To form a yellow, magenta or cyan dye having an absorption half peak bandwidth in all other convenient spectral regions, ranging from 〜1200 nm).
It does not matter. Preferably, each image dye exhibits an absorption half-peak bandwidth that extends at least 25 nm (most preferably at least 50 nm) of the spectral region not occupied by the absorption half-peak bandwidth of the other image dye. Ideally, the image dyes exhibit a mutually exclusive absorption half peak bandwidth.

When a layer unit contains two or more emulsion layers of different speed sensitivity, each emulsion layer of the layer unit has a different spectral region from the dye image of the other emulsion layers of the layer unit. By forming a dye image exhibiting the existing absorption half-peak bandwidth, it is possible to reduce the image granularity in the image for viewing, reproduced from electronic recording. This technique is particularly well suited for elements where the layer units are broken down into subunits of different speed sensitivity. This allows multiple electronic records to be made for each layer unit, corresponding to different dye images formed by emulsion layers of the same spectral sensitivity. The digital record formed by scanning the dye image formed by the fastest speed emulsion layer is used to reproduce the portion of the dye image for viewing that is just above the minimum density. At higher exposure levels,
A second and optionally a third electronic record can be formed by scanning the spectrally differentiated dye image formed by the remaining emulsion layers or layers.
These digital records contain less noise (lower granularity) and can be used in reproducing images for viewing over an exposure range above the threshold exposure level of the less sensitive emulsion layer. it can. This technique for reducing granularity is described in Sutton US Pat. No. 5,314,7.
Nos. 94 and 5,389,506 are disclosed in more detail.

Each layer unit of the color negative element of the present invention produces a dye image characteristic curve gamma of less than 1.5 which facilitates obtaining a latitude of at least 2.7 log E exposure. The latitude of the minimum acceptable exposure of a multicolor photographic element is to accurately record the most extreme whites (eg, bride's wedding dresses) and the most extreme blacks (eg, groom's tuxedo) that would occur in photographic applications. Is to make it possible. A latitude of 2.6 log E exposure is just right for a typical bride and groom wedding scene. Thus, elements useful in the practice of the present invention exhibit a latitude of exposure of at least 2.7 log E. A latitude of at least 3.0 log E exposure is preferred. It is, by this,
This is because an easy tolerance of an error in selecting an exposure level by a photographer becomes possible. Larger exposure latitudes of 3.6 log E are also particularly preferred for elements that have been pre-loaded into the camera. that is,
This is because the ability to obtain accurate image reproduction is realized by elementary exposure control. In color negative elements intended for printing, the visible suction of the printed scene is often lost when gamma is exceptionally low,
As the color negative elements are scanned to create an electronic image retention signal from the dye image record, contrast can be increased by adjusting the electronic signal information. When scanning an element of the invention using a reflected beam, the bead moves twice through the layer unit. This is done by doubling the change in density (ΔD) by gamma (ΔD
/ Δlog E) is effectively doubled. in this way,
Gammas as low as 0.5 or 0.2 or less are contemplated;
Latitudes of exposure less than or equal to about 5.0 log E or higher are feasible.

Although the elements have been described in detail as color negative elements, the positive-type elements may have the latitude,
It will be appreciated that similar considerations apply to Hodgy-type elements as long as they satisfy the gamma, color former masking and gamma ratio requirements. In a specific example, the element can be made positive by using direct reversal emulsions known in the art. In addition, known color reversal elements require that the latitude, gamma and gamma ratio requirements described herein are not physically compatible with the accompanying latitude available from the image gamma and dye images required for direct viewing. It goes without saying that these requirements are missing.

Suitable thermal films provide an image upon thermal development that is responsive to imagewise exposure to light. Typical heat treatment conditions include about 50-180 for 0.1-60 seconds.
° C development temperature. The film base may be any suitable type of film base that does not substantially degrade under processing conditions. Polyethylene terephthalate (P
ET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) and annealed PEN (APEN) are examples of suitable materials for the film base. The accumulator for film in the apparatus of the present invention may be any suitable type of device. Generally, the driving means for the accumulator also drives the cartridge to eject the film from the cartridge and rewind the film into the cartridge. By having the drive motor in the accumulator itself for a compact design,
It has been found that efficiency and compactness are obtained. Although this is the preferred embodiment, this is not essential to the proper functioning of the device, and the drive motor can be placed in any position suitable for actuating the thrust cartridge and accumulator to effect film movement. it can.
The drive motor may be any suitable type of drive motor. Drive motors include AC, DC and step electric motors. A DC electric motor is preferred for the device of the present invention, since a DC electric motor provides a simple means of controlling the drive speed.

The apparatus is provided with means for controlling the speed of the film above the heater. It also includes means for determining and controlling the temperature of the heater. Accurate control of the heater for optimal development temperature is important for best photographic performance. The drive speed, in combination with the heater temperature, gives precise control of the development process. The heater is provided with a temperature sensor for determining the immediate temperature of the heater.
This temperature sensor may be a thermocouple or any other suitable device. Electric power is supplied to the heater in proportion to the temperature shortage detected by the temperature sensor. The temperature control circuit uses feedback to maintain and control the temperature of the heater and thereby control the development temperature. The speed of the film above the heater can be controlled by any suitable speed control. Pulse width modulation applied to a DC motor that drives both the thrust cartridge and the accumulator or timed step applied to a step motor that drives both the thrust cartridge and the accumulator
ps) is an example of a suitable speed adjustment. The motor driving both the thrust cartridge and the accumulator can be located in the accumulator for compactness. Although this is a preferred embodiment, the drive means may comprise a single motor or any combination of motor groups located in a suitable location in the device of the present invention. Film speed is controlled to provide sufficient dwell time for the film near the heater and to provide optimal development. The apparatus of the present invention typically requires about 2-30 seconds of exposure to the heater to develop one frame of film.

It is desirable to provide a means for preventing the film from coming into contact with the heater for a certain period of time. For example, if the device stops while the film is over the heater, the film may be damaged or improperly developed. To prevent this, the heater can be removed from the film path or the device can be provided with means to change the film path away from the heater. The method of removing the heater from the film path uses an armature connected to a series of gears driven by a motor. The motor is controlled to drive the heater away from or close to the film path as desired. This motor may be any suitable type of drive motor. The preferred motor for the device of the present invention is a stepper electric motor, as the stepper motor provides a simple means of controlling the movement of the heater. It has been found that for a compact design, having a motor to operate the heater in the accumulator provides efficiency and compactness. This is the preferred embodiment,
This is not required for the proper functioning of the device, and the motor that operates the heater can be moved to any position suitable for moving the heater close to the film path and removing the heater from the film path. .

The motor that operates the heater can be controlled or can be controlled by preset conditions.
It can be configured to respond to signals provided by sensors monitoring film and / or development. Sensors can be mounted in the film path to monitor a number of parameters including film speed, film position, temperature, frame advance and injury conditions such as film breaks, film jams and heater malfunctions.
A light emitting diode (LED) sensor is preferred for detecting the position of the image frame in the thermal film. Although LED sensors are preferred for detecting image frame positions, the sensors used in the apparatus of the present invention may be of any suitable type for monitoring a parameter of interest. Sensors for this device include optical, magnetic, mechanical and electronic sensors. The response of such a sensor is transmitted to a drive mechanism that activates the heater, placing the heater close to the film path or removing the heater from the film path as desired. In another aspect, when contact between the film and the heater is not desired, actuating guide rollers (actua) may be used to lift the film away from the heater.
ted guidelers). The film also has a sufficiently low thermal mass and protects it from excessive heating by a heater with a fast response time so that the temperature of the heater can be reduced below the damage threshold of the film when needed. be able to.

[0053] Readers for thermal films must maintain their dimensional stability during processing of the film. If the leader exhibits excessive curl, warp or twist under the conditions of the heat treatment or expands or contracts excessively, the film will be mis-fed or jammed in the film path. The reader is important for repeated use of the developed film in the thrust cartridge.
A degraded or improper leader will prevent the film from moving smoothly through the film path, resulting in excessive wear of the film, including scratching of the image elements. Repeated use of a thrust cartridge containing a film with an inappropriate leader also breaks the thrust cartridge and prevents the film from protruding or rewinding into the thrust cartridge. To avoid these problems, the reader can be protected from the thermal extremes of development or can be made from a material that is dimensionally stable at development temperatures below 180 ° C. The reader is protected from the development extremes by removing the heater element from the film path until the reader passes and is no longer in proximity to the heater.
Then, when needed to process the imaging frame,
Return the heater into the film path. Proper operation of the heater can be provided by various motorized subassemblies. In another embodiment, power is applied to the heater only when the reader is not in proximity to the heater, thereby isolating the reader from the thermal development extremes. If the leader is made of a material that maintains sufficient dimensional stability throughout the processing conditions, it is not necessary to insulate the leader from the heating element. The film base also needs to remain stable throughout the processing conditions to prevent unwanted distortion of the image. Typical development temperatures for color thermal films are probably 50-180 ° C. Thus, any suitable material that maintains sufficient dimensional stability through these processing conditions can be used as a leader or film-based material. It has been found that polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is stable enough to be used as a leader and film base unless exposure to maximum temperature processing conditions is excessive.

Devices suitable for containing the cartridge, heater and drive mechanism may be of any size. The device of the invention is preferably made as compact as possible. It may be desirable for the device to be of a size such that it can fit into a drive bay of a computer. Typically, the light-tight container of the device of the present invention comprises 120
It has a volume of less than 0 cm ³ .

The power for the device of the present invention may be any suitable power source. This can be provided by means of plugging into a standard electrical outlet. If the device is installed in a computer or as a computer peripheral device, it can draw power from the computer. The apparatus of the present invention provides the resources required for traditional wet processing photofinishing.
does not require much of s). Thus, this allows for a more convenient photographic finish than traditional wet processing. It is contemplated that the apparatus of the present invention will find application in a more widely distributed environment than traditional wet processing photographic finishing, such as home or small office applications. Furthermore, the device of the present invention will allow for remote photofinishing without resources such as the means for treating contaminant-free water and contaminated wastewater required for traditional wet processing. It is intended to be waxy. Batteries can be used as a remote resource for rapid and convenient processing of the exposed film.

[0056]

The following example illustrates the practice of the present invention. They are not intended to cover all possible variations of the invention. Parts and percentages are by weight unless otherwise indicated.

Example 1 A full-color heat developable film is produced.

Photosensitive silver halide emulsion (1) [Red-sensitive milk
Solution layer ) Solution (1) and solution (2) shown in Table I were mixed with a well-stirred aqueous gelatin solution (16 g of gelatin, 0.24 g of potassium bromide in 540 mL of water heated to 55 ° C.)
(A solution of 1.6 g of sodium chloride and 24 mg of compound (a)) at the same flow rate over the course of 19 minutes.
After 5 minutes, the solutions (3) and (4) shown in Table I are further added simultaneously at the same flow rate over 24 minutes. After washing by a general method to remove salts, 1
7.6 g of lime-processed ossein gelatin and 56 mg of compound (b) were added to bring the pH and pAg to 6.2 respectively.
And adjust to 7.7. Then, 1.02 mg of trimethylthiourea is added, followed by optimal chemical sensitization at 60 ° C. Thereafter, 0.18 g of 4-hydroxy-6-methyl-1,3,3a, 7-tetraazaindene, 64 mg of sensitizing dye (C) and 0.41 g of potassium bromide were added in this order, followed by cooling. I do. Thus, 590 g of 0.3
A monodisperse cubic silver chlorobromide emulsion having an average grain size of 0 μm is obtained.

[0059]

[Table 1]

[0060]

Embedded image

Light- sensitive silver halide emulsion (2) [green-sensitive milk
Solution layer ) Solution (1) and solution (2) shown in Table II were mixed with a well-stirred 5% aqueous gelatin solution (20 g of gelatin, 0.30 g of potassium bromide in 600 mL of water heated to 46 ° C.) , 2.0 g of sodium chloride and 30 mg of compound (a)) at the same flow rate over 10 minutes. After 5 minutes, the solution (3) and solution (4) shown in Table II are simultaneously added to the solution at the same flow rate over 30 minutes. One minute after the end of the addition of solutions (3) and (4), 360 mg of sensitizing dye (d ₁ ) and 73.4
Add 600 mL of a solution of sensitizing dye in methanol containing mg of sensitizing dye (d ₂ ). After washing and salt removal (performed at pH 4.0 using the precipitant (e)) by conventional methods, 22 g of lime-treated ossein gelatin were added to reduce the pH and pAg respectively. 6.0 and 7.
Adjust to 6. Then 1.8 mg of sodium thiosulfate and 180 mg of 4-hydroxy-6-methyl-1,3,
3a, 7-tetraazaindene is added, followed by 60 ° C.
Perform optimal chemical sensitization with. Thereafter, 90 mg of antifoggant (f) and 70 mg of compound (b) and 3 as preservatives
Add mL of compound (g) followed by cooling. This gives 635 g of a monodisperse cubic silver chlorobromide emulsion having an average grain size of 0.30 μm.

[0062]

[Table 2]

[0063]

Embedded image

Photosensitive silver halide emulsion (3) [Blue-sensitive milk
Dosage layer] First, a 584mL heated to well stirred 5% aqueous gelatin solution (70 ° C. water, gelatin 31.6 g,
The addition of the solution (2) shown in Table III to 2.5 g of potassium bromide and 13 mg of the solution of compound (a) is started.
After 10 minutes, the addition of solution (1) is started. Thereafter, solutions (1) and (2) are added over 30 minutes. Five minutes after the addition of solution (2) is completed, the addition of solution (4) shown in Table III is further started, and the addition of solution (3) is started 10 seconds later. Solution (3) is added over 27 minutes and 50 seconds, and solution (4) is added over 28 minutes.
Washing was carried out by a general method to remove salts (pH 3.9).
And 24.6 g after using a precipitant (e ')).
PH and pAg are adjusted to 6.1 and 8.5, respectively, by adding lime treated ossein gelatin and 56 mg of compound (b). Then, 0.55 mg of sodium thiosulfate is added, followed by optimal chemical sensitization at 65 ° C.
Then, 0.35 g of sensitizing dye (h), 56 mg of antifoggant (i) and 2.3 mL of compound (g) as a preservative
, Followed by cooling. Thus, 582 g of
A monodispersed octahedral silver bromide emulsion having an average grain size of 0.55 μm is obtained.

[0065]

[Table 3]

[0066]

Embedded image

Silver Benzotriazole Emulsion (Organic Silver Salt) 28 g of gelatin and 13.2 g of benzotriazole are dissolved in 300 ml of water. 40 ° C.
And stirred. A solution of 17 g of silver nitrate in 100 mL of water is added to this solution over 2 minutes. The pH of the resulting silver benzotriazole emulsion is adjusted and excess salts are removed by sedimentation. The pH is then adjusted to 6.30 to give 400 g of silver benzotriazole emulsion.

Method for Producing an Emulsified Dispersion of a Coupler The oil phase component and the aqueous phase component shown in Table IV were each dissolved, and
Form a homogeneous solution at a temperature of 60 ° C. Combine both solutions and mix at 10,000 rpm in a 1 liter stainless steel vessel with a dissolver fitted with a 5 cm diameter disperser.
Disperse for 0 minutes. Hot water is then added as a post-water addition in the amounts shown in Table IV, followed by mixing at 2,000 rpm for 10 minutes. Thus, emulsified dispersions of three colors of cyan, magenta and yellow are produced.

[0069]

[Table 4]

[0070]

Embedded image

[0071]

Embedded image

Using the material thus obtained,
A heat developable color photographic material having the multilayer configuration shown in Table V is prepared. As a suitable film base, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is used. The film is loaded into a thrust cartridge, the thrust cartridge is inserted into a camera, and the film is imagewise exposed to a full color test scene. The film is then rewound into the thrust cartridge, the thrust cartridge is removed from the camera, and inserted into the chamber of the device of the present invention for receiving the thrust cartridge. The heater temperature of the apparatus of the present invention is set to 140 ° C., and the driving speed is adjusted to give a developing time of 10 seconds. The light-shielding door of the apparatus of the present invention is closed, the film driving mechanism is operated, and the film is processed at 140 ° C. for 10 seconds.
The processed film is then rewound into a thrust cartridge and removed from the apparatus of the present invention. Inspection of the processed film reveals that the test scene is faithfully reproduced as a three-color record with acceptable acutance and granularity.

[0073]

[Table 5]

[0074]

[Table 6]

[0075]

Embedded image

Hot Solvent (12) D-sorbitol The invention has been described in detail with particular reference to certain preferred embodiments thereof, but it will be understood that variations and modifications can be effected within the spirit and scope of the invention. .

[0077]

The present invention provides a compact and convenient apparatus and method for processing films contained in a thrust cartridge. The present invention provides a convenient and compact apparatus and method for processing color thermal films.

Hereinafter, additional embodiments of the present invention will be listed. 1. A thrust cartridge receiving chamber, drive means for advancing the thermal film from the thrust cartridge and rewinding the film into the thrust cartridge, an accumulator for collecting the film after it has exited the cartridge, and A heater disposed between the chamber and the accumulator and the chamber for developing the thermal film when passing between the cartridge and the accumulator;
An apparatus for thermal development comprising a light-shielding container for a heater and an accumulator.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising temperature sensing means for determining a temperature of the heater. 3. Apparatus according to aspect 2, further comprising means for adjusting the temperature of the heater and the speed of the drive means. 4. The heater includes a platen, wherein the platen is 2-5.
The device of embodiment 1, wherein the device is cm in length. 5. The device according to embodiment 1, wherein the light-shielding container has a volume smaller than 1200 cm ³ .

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the device fits into a computer drive bay. 7. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises means for drawing power from a computer. 8. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises means for drawing power from a battery. 9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is provided with means for preventing the film leader from contacting the heater.

10. Placing in a receiving chamber for a thrust cartridge containing the exposed thermal film;
Driving the thermal film from the chamber, winding the film into an accumulator means, developing the film as it passes over a heater between a thrust cartridge and an accumulator, and removing the thermal film from the chamber. A method for developing a thermal film, comprising rewinding the film in the thrust cartridge.

11. The method of embodiment 10, wherein the thrust cartridge containing the developed thermal film is removed from the chamber. 12. The method of embodiment 10, wherein the heater is maintained between 50-180 ° C. 13. The method of claim 10, wherein the heater temperature is adjusted in response to a temperature sensing device.

14. Embodiment 10 in which development is performed in a light-shielding container
The method described in. 15. Approximately 2 to develop the film into one frame
The method of embodiment 10, wherein the method is exposed to the heater for about 30 seconds. 16. 11. The method of aspect 10, wherein the signal drive projects film from the thrust cartridge and drives an accumulator on the film.

17. The method of embodiment 10, wherein the film has an annealed polyethylene naphthalate base. 18. The method according to embodiment 14, wherein the light-shielding container has a volume of about 1200 cm ^3. 19. The method of claim 10, wherein the thermal film leader passes over the heater prior to activation of the heater.

20. The method of claim 10, wherein the thermal film leader is formed from a material that does not undergo any substantial change in properties when subjected to the temperature of thermal development. 21. The method of claim 10, wherein the heater does not contact the thermal film until the film leader is wound onto an accumulator. 22. A film cartridge comprising a thermal film and a light-shielding thrust cartridge.

23. The film cartridge of embodiment 22, wherein the base of the film comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) or annealed polyethylene naphthalate (APEN). 24. Embodiment 23. The film cartridge of embodiment 22, wherein the film further comprises a reader that is stable at a temperature between 50 and 180C.

25. A thrust cartridge receiving chamber, drive means for advancing the thermal film from the thrust cartridge and rewinding the film into the thrust cartridge, an accumulator for collecting the film after it has exited the cartridge, and A thermal developing device for developing the thermal film when passing between the cartridge and the accumulator, comprising a heater disposed between the chamber and the accumulator, and a light-shielding container for the chamber, the heater and the accumulator. An apparatus comprising, on a thermal film, a color-forming layer unit comprising a photosensitive silver halide emulsion and at least one member selected from the group consisting of a dye-forming agent, a developing agent or its precursor, and an oxidizing agent in a reactive relationship. Thermal development device comprising a body .

26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the thermal film comprises a blue light sensitive color forming layer unit, a green light sensitive color forming layer unit, and a red light sensitive color forming layer unit. 27. Apparatus according to embodiment 25, wherein the thermal film comprises, in a reactive relationship, a photosensitive silver halide emulsion and a dye forming agent, a developing agent or precursor thereof and an oxidizing agent.

28. Placing in a receiving chamber for a thrust cartridge containing the exposed thermal film;
Driving the thermal film from the chamber, winding the film into an accumulator means, developing the film as it passes over a heater between a thrust cartridge and an accumulator, and removing the thermal film from the chamber. Unwinding into the thrust cartridge; comprising in a reactive relationship a light-sensitive silver halide emulsion and at least one of the group consisting of a dye forming agent, a developing agent or a precursor thereof, and an oxidizing agent. A method for developing a thermal film including a support having a color forming layer unit on the thermal film.

29. The apparatus of embodiment 28, wherein the thermal film comprises a blue light sensitive color forming layer unit, a green light sensitive color forming layer unit, and a red light sensitive color forming layer unit. 30. Apparatus according to embodiment 28, wherein the thermal film comprises a photosensitive silver halide emulsion and a dye forming agent, a developing agent or precursor thereof and an oxidizing agent in a reactive relationship.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a compact heat developing device of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the device of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an end view of the device of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a sectional view taken along line 4-4 in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken along line 5-5 in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is another cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2 showing the means for removing the heater from the film path.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 10 developing device device 12 light-shielding door 14 chamber 16 thrust cartridge 18 film 22 heater 24 accumulator 26 motor 28 drive sprocket 32 series of gears 34 sprocket 36 electrical contacts 38 guide roller 39 … Guide roller 40… Armature 42… Gear assembly 44… Sensor 45… Sensor 46… Motor

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (72) Inventor David H. Levy United States, New York 14618, Rochester, Hampshire Drive 114 (72) Inventor Lynn Marie Irving United States, New York 14625, Rochester, Penfield Road 1062

Claims (3)

[Claims] 1. A receiving chamber for a thrust cartridge,
Drive means for advancing the thermal film from the thrust cartridge and rewinding the film into the thrust cartridge; an accumulator for collecting the film after it has exited the cartridge; and an accumulator for accumulating the thermal film between the cartridge and the accumulator. An apparatus for thermal development comprising a heater disposed between the chamber and the accumulator, and a light-shielding container for the chamber, the heater and the accumulator, for developing the thermal film when passing through the gap. 2. Placing into a receiving chamber for a thrust cartridge containing the exposed thermal film, driving the thermal film from the chamber, winding the film into accumulator means,
A method for developing a thermal film, comprising developing the film as it passes over a heater between a thrust cartridge and an accumulator and rewinding the thermal film into the thrust cartridge. 3. A receiving chamber for a thrust cartridge,
Drive means for advancing the thermal film from the thrust cartridge and rewinding the film into the thrust cartridge; an accumulator for collecting the film after it has exited the cartridge; and an accumulator for accumulating the thermal film between the cartridge and the accumulator. An apparatus for thermal development comprising a heater disposed between the chamber and the accumulator, and a light-shielding container for the chamber, the heater and the accumulator, for developing the thermal film when passing between the chambers. Comprising, on a thermal film, a support comprising a color-forming layer unit comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of a photosensitive silver halide emulsion and a dye-forming agent, a developing agent or its precursor and an oxidizing agent. Developing device.