Abstract: A mechanism and method used by photographic systems to determine when film has been completely rewound into a film cartridge so that other operations involving the film cartridge can occur, for example, aligning a visual indicator with an appropriate visual exposure icon visible on exterior of a film cartridge. Preferably, the mechanism and method of the present invention are for use in photographic systems that accept film cartridges having a radial bar code contained on a data disk and means for aligning a visual indicator with an appropriate visual icon. The mechanism and method are characterized in that during rewinding of the film, sensing the leading edge of the film causes the number of film spool rotations to be counted. After a predetermined number of rotations have occurred, it is presumed that the film is completely rewound on the film spool and, as a result, a predetermined parking sequence can be initiated.

Abstract: A camera includes a chamber for receiving a cartridge having a shell and a film spool, substantially concealed inside the shell, with exposed axial spool ends. The camera further includes a spindle for supporting a first one of the exposed spool ends, and a pivotal door with a spring-urged bushing for pushing against a second one of the exposed spool ends for urging the first exposed spool end onto the spindle when the door is pivoted closed. The invention is characterized by a rigid member of the pivotal door for pushing against the shell, but not against the second exposed spool end, to move the cartridge initially into the chamber toward the spindle before the spring-urged member can push against the second exposed spool end when the door is pivoted closed.