Abstract: A method of improving the sensitometric response of a photosensitive imaging media under various humidity conditions including the steps of providing a photosensitive imaging media including an imaging layer comprising a developer material and a plurality of microcapsules encapsulating a photohardenable composition and a color former; image-wise exposing the imaging media to actinic radiation to form a latent image on the media; maintaining the imaging media containing the latent image at an elevated temperature; and developing the image.

Abstract: An exposure and pressure applicator device for use in printing an image onto an imaging media, containing photosensitive microcapsules comprising: an exposure means adjacent to the imaging media comprising at least one exposure-producing element which image-wise exposes the imaging media providing a latent image thereon; a pressure applicator means containing at least one point contact element to apply a uniform rupturing force to the exposed imaging media; and motive means for effectuating synchronous movement of both exposure means and pressure applicator means relative to the imaging media, are described.

Abstract: A pressure developing apparatus is described for use in developing images in the image area of a photosensitive imaging sheet containing microcapsules, wherein the apparatus comprises:an arm which oscillates in arcuate paths across the surface of the imaging sheet;means for oscillating the arm across the surface of the imaging sheet;means for establishing longitudinal movement between the arm and the imaging sheet; anda developer head positioned along the shaft of the arm, the developer head further containing at least one point contact element which is resiliently biased into contact with a surface of the imaging sheet such that the point contact element traverses the surface of the imaging sheet in sequential increments to provide a plurality of paths and applies uniform pressure sufficient to rupture the microcapsules in substantially the entire image area.