Abstract: Method and apparatus for uniquely identifying a copy of a motion picture disposed on a media. The method includes the steps of selecting two or more motion picture scenes. Each of the motion picture scenes is an identifiable portion of the motion picture distinct from every other portion of the motion picture. Once the scenes have been identified, two or more sequences can be defined within each of the motion picture scenes such that each sequence includes two or more frames. For example, the motion picture can have three scenes, each divided into twenty eight sequences, with each of the sequences containing 12 frames. Once the scenes and sequences have been selected, at least one of the sequences from each scene is marked to define a uniquely identifiable marking pattern on the media.

Abstract: A method and system for color correcting and completing answerprints in preparation for making final copies of motion pictures for distribution. A light system is provided in which colors of the light projected through a film toward a viewing screen can be individually and incrementally adjusted as desired for use by a color “Timer” who is an individual that selects color corrections on a scene-by-scene basis until a suitable look is achieved. The Timer does this in real time while watching the film scene projected on the screen. The color adjustments are stored and subsequently used to control a motion picture film printer in printing a next version of scenes of the film.

Abstract: A method is provided for transferring dye from a dye imbibed matrix film to a receiver film for producing a dye transfer print of a motion picture print. A dye imbibed matrix film and a receiver film are superimposed together in precise registration on a seating apparatus, e.g., a pin belt, to create a two-film sandwich. The two-film sandwich is stripped from the seating apparatus before completing dye transfer, and dye transfer from the matrix film to the receiver film is completed along a pinless, substantially rectilinear film path while maintaining the two-film sandwich in precise registration. For example, a transfer cabinet may be provided that includes a plurality of rollers having a predetermined relationship to one another and defining the substantially rectilinear film path, and the two-film sandwich may be directed along the film path to complete dye transfer.

Abstract: A system for producing prints of a professional motion picture film by dye transfer, including a roll tank, a pin belt, and a transfer cabinet. A dye imbibed matrix film and blank film are superimposed together in a predetermined registration by rollers in the roll tank, creating a two-film sandwich, which is directed onto the pin belt. The pin belt includes a plurality of pins traveling in an orbital path, which detachably engage the two-film sandwich, thereby directing the two-film sandwich along a portion of the orbital path. The transfer cabinet includes a plurality of relatively large diameter rollers in a predetermined relationship to one another, and an elevator mechanism for adjusting the predetermined relationship. The rollers define a substantially rectilinear film path along which the two-film sandwich from the pin belt is directed. The film path has a length sufficient to allow complete dye transfer to occur at high drive speeds within the transfer cabinet.

Abstract: A system for producing prints of a professional motion picture film by dye transfer, including a roll tank, a pin belt, and a transfer cabinet. A dye imbibed matrix film and blank film are superimposed together in a predetermined registration by rollers in the roll tank, creating a two-film sandwich, which is directed onto the pin belt. The pin belt includes a plurality of pins traveling in an orbital path, which detachably engage the two-film sandwich, thereby directing the two-film sandwich along a portion of the orbital path. The transfer cabinet includes a plurality of relatively large diameter rollers in a predetermined relationship to one another, and an elevator mechanism for adjusting the predetermined relationship. The rollers define a substantially rectilinear film path along which the two-film sandwich from the pin belt is directed. The film path has a length sufficient to allow complete dye transfer to occur at high drive speeds within the transfer cabinet.

Abstract: There is disclosed herein a film platter system involving modifications to a platter system comprising two or more rotary film platters used in the makeup and breakdown of film for motion picture projection in theaters and the like. The system and method involves the use of a tightly wound extended length (e.g., 6,000-7,000 feet) roll of motion picture film. An adapter plate assembly is provided to be used in place of the usual center ring and plug-in control plate used in film platter systems so as to allow a core of the extended length film roll to be suitably secured to one platter for payout to a second platter in making up a film coil (e.g., 12,000 feet) for projection. In addition, a tensioner for use with one or more platters is provided to facilitate breakdown of the film roll into its extended length (e.g., 6,000-7,000 feet) roll for repackaging and shipping to the next theater. A method for make-up and break-down, as well as details of the adapter assembly and tensioner are shown and described.

Abstract: A method of transfering from dye from a dye imbibed matrix film and a receiver film for producing a dye transfer print of a motion picture print including the steps of seating a dye imbibed matrix film and a receiver film on a pin belt, driving the pin belt at a predetermined speed along an orbital path, engaging sprocket holes on the matrix and receiver films with precisely spaced pins on the pin belts, stripping the two-film sandwich from the pin belt prior to completion of dye transfer, completing dye transfer from the matrix film to the receiver film in a transfer cabinet and maintaining the two-film sandwich in precise registration during the step of completing dye transfer.

Abstract: A system for producing prints of a professional motion picture film by dye transfer, including a roll tank, a pin belt, and a transfer cabinet. A dye imbibed matrix film and blank film are superimposed together in a predetermined registration by rollers in the roll tank, creating a two-film sandwich, which is directed onto the pin belt. The pin belt includes a plurality of pins traveling in an orbital path, which detachably engage the two-film sandwich, thereby directing the two-film sandwich along a portion of the orbital path. The transfer cabinet includes a plurality of relatively large diameter rollers in a predetermined relationship to one another, and an elevator mechanism for adjusting the predetermined relationship. The rollers define a substantially rectilinear film path along which the two-film sandwich from the pin belt is directed. The film path has a length sufficient to allow complete dye transfer to occur at high drive speeds within the transfer cabinet.

Abstract: An extended play cassette including a housing having an adaptor portion similar in form to a conventional cassette and a magazine portion in stacked relationship to the adaptor portion. The extended play cassette includes hubs within the magazine portion for carrying a web in rolls thereupon, access means in the adaptor portion for providing access to the web by a record/play apparatus, guides between the adaptor portion and the magazine portion for guiding the web therebetween, and a drive train connecting engagement sockets in the adaptor portion to the respective hubs in the magazine portion.

Abstract: This invention relates to a control system for a motion picture film printer and more particularly relates to a system for initiating and controlling various printer operations.