Abstract: A transfer system is utilized for automatically transporting a master microfiche from a computer output microfiche unit to a duplicator unit, thereby avoiding the physical handling of the microfiche by operating personnel. In addition to effecting the transfer of the microfiche, the transfer system further diverts those microfiche with errors in their bar code instructions to an error hopper so that optimum use of the duplicator time in making copies is assured. Appropriate switches are provided for diverting all microfiche to the error hopper when the duplicator is being serviced. Also, switches are provided for bypassing the bar code reader so that all microfiche will go to the feed hopper for the duplicator regardless of whether or not an error in the bar code exists.

Abstract: The automatic loader successively transfers individual microfiche from a stack of master microfiche in a hopper to an exposure station in a microfiche duplicator. The duplicator makes a copy of the master microfiche on film carried in the duplicator. The loader then automatically transfers the exposed microfiche to a collecting bin. The arrangement is such that while one master microfiche is being exposed, an already exposed microfiche is being removed and a new master microfiche placed in a ready position for subsequent exposure. A specially designed turntable and cooperating shuttle function in timed sequences to effect the foregoing movements.

Abstract: The microfiche scanner module constitutes a specially designed modular unit capable of being substituted for a normal microfilm cartridge mechanism in a reader/printer projector to thereby enable the printing and displaying of data information stored on microfiche without requiring any major alterations in the reader/printer projector. The scanner unit includes a frame supporting a carriage for movement in a fore and aft direction, the carriage in turn supporting a film platen for movement in a left and right direction. A microfiche is positioned on the film platen between the normally provided light source and projection lens in the reader/printer projector. Movement of the carriage in a forward direction will scan one column of the microfiche after which the carriage is retracted and shifted to the right so that a second column can be scanned, the process being repeated until all of the information on the microfiche is printed in the printer.

Abstract: A magnification of the displayed image of an opaque reader can be changed between first and second values by a single manual movement. A diopter lens disposed in front of the projection lens provides a first magnification. The single movement functions to remove the diopter lens and simultaneously shift axially the position of the projection lens thereby providing the desired second magnification, the simultaneous movement of the diopter and projection lens from first to second positions assuring that the magnified images under both magnifications are in focus.

Abstract: The duplicator comprises a housing with a carrier supporting first and second spaced platens alternately movable by the carrier to a light exposure station in the housing. Master microfiches to be duplicated are manually positioned on the platens such that when a master microfiche on the first platen is in the housing being exposed, a second master microfiche may be loaded on the second platen, preparatory to having a duplicate made. A foot pedal is provided to actuate movement of the platen carrier and also control a vacuum hold down system for the master microfiches positioned on the platens. A capstan driven by a geneva movement in the housing positions successive lengths of film from a film reel in the housing at the light exposure station for contact printing with the master microfiche on the platen positioned at the light exposure station.

Abstract: A cartridge is provided for microfiche in the form of a box having a series of elongated rectangular pockets in a stacked array, one above the other and with exposed front openings. Each pocket is dimensioned to receive one microfiche. Cut-out portions are provided on opposite sides of the box to intersect the pockets and expose edge portions of each microfiche stored in the pockets. With this arrangement, appropriate friction wheels in the cut-out portions of the box can be provided on a stationary frame structure to eject a microfiche from the cartridge automatically and pass the same onto a microfilm viewer.