Abstract: A digital reorder system and med is disclosed for making reprints from a negative strip. The strip advances toward a digital scanner which reads the bar code adjacent each frame to determine frame number and other parameters, and an image associated with each frame is scanned by a digital camera. Computer software manipulates the bar code information and the scanned image to place the image in a proper orientation. Consequently, the operator need not spend time orienting the negative strips prior to insertion into the feeder. The reorder system can include a multiple strip feeder which receives a stack of negative strips and automatically feeds the strips one-by-one into the reorder system.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for splicing photographic films is disclosed, where the films are conveyed along a path and supported by a track element. Upon being positioned to receive a splice, the films are clamped between a movable splice pad and the track clement. The clamping action produced by the movable splice pad substantially eliminates the problem of film foldovers caused by curling at the trailing end of a film. A splice head is lowered to apply a splice tape to the films, thereby forming the splice. The films are spliced together in a flattened state, producing a continuous web of film which can be wound onto a roll or core for further processing.

Abstract: An improved photofinishing packaging apparatus and related method is described in which a film bar code is read, and identification indicia which may be different from the film bar code is encoded onto the corresponding prints generated from the film. The film bar code is then paired with the identification indicia, which pairing is stored in a computer. Later, the packager uses the pairing to match up the film with the corresponding prints.