Abstract: A substantially closed processing station designed to disperse chemicals for uniformly coating or otherwise contacting an emulsion-coated or other surface is disclosed. The station includes opposed chemical chambers, each of which is covered with a perforated film and, optionally, a screen-like material, between which materials the photographic film or other substrate passes. Distension of the upper perforated film ensures contact between the film (or the screen) and the photographic film moving through the station while minimizing the pressure on and resulting abrading of the substrate's surface. Because the matched peripheries of the upper and lower chambers are closely fitted, the processing station is virtually sealed from the surrounding atmosphere and little degradation of the processing chemicals occurs even after extended periods of nonuse.

Abstract: An automated, interactive system for receiving, storing, processing, retrieving and dispensing film, still video camera diskettes, or other products which must be processed. The system includes an unmanned, automated and computerized apparatus analogous to an automatic teller machine (ATM). Instructions presented on an interactive video display prompt a patron to enter identification information and data concerning the type of photoprocessing desired. The information entered is stored on a floppy computer disc or transmitted electronically to a remote processing facility via a telephone link and used to track the order as it is processed at a remote location. The finished prints are returned to the apparatus and stored in a compartmentalized storage unit while awaiting pick-up by the customer. A random access retrieval mechanism included in the apparatus allows packages of processed prints to be stored in any empty compartments of the storage unit.

Abstract: A system of substantially closed processing stations designed to disperse chemicals for uniformly coating or otherwise contacting an emulsion-coated or other surface or strip is disclosed. The system comprises one or more slotted stations through which developing chemicals are transmitted into shallow sinks. The chemicals uniformly contact the strip as it travels over the sinks and subsequently are removed from the strip along with by-products of the reaction by wipers or ribs and disposed through disposal slots in the stations. The ribs also agitate the chemicals and emulsion to assist uniform developing of the strip. Because the processing station is virtually sealed from the surrounding atmosphere, little degradation of the processing chemicals occurs even after extended periods of nonuse.

Abstract: A container for storing photographic prints and negatives. Said container can be molded from sturdy semi-rigid material and includes a base and a lid. The base is constructed so that the interior of the base defines two open storage areas. One storage area is specifically adaptable to storing photographic negatives and subtends the other storage area which is specifically adaptable to storing photographic prints. Both negatives and prints can be stored in the same compartment of the same container yet they can be stored without allowing either the prints or the negatives an excess of space in which to move. These containers are also configured to be stored in a storage box which can hold several containers for easy access and attractive storage.