Abstract: A processor and processing method for treating flat discrete elements of photographic film, preferably in a disc format, includes the use of a spindle for receiving the elements in stacked, parallel relation normal to the spindle. The spindle mounted discs are rotated in a processing solution to provide relative movement between the discs and the solution, and are rotated while out of the processing solution to remove excess solution from the discs.

Abstract: An automatic rangefinder and focusing apparatus is provided for use with a camera for determining the distance from an object to be photographed to the film plane of the camera and for positioning the camera's objective lens to focus an image of the object in the film plane. The apparatus comprises a photoresponsive device and a light emitter device that projects light in angularly intersecting relation to the optical axis along which light is received by a photodetector incorporated in the photoresponsive device. The light projected by the light emitter device is amplitude modulated at a frequency functionally related to the distance from the camera at which that light intersects the optical axis of the photoresponsive device.

Abstract: Exposure control apparatus provides an exposure program in which an exposure aperture is related to shutter speed to produce an optimum compromise between both exposure parameters. The exposure control apparatus comprises a diaphragm defining an exposure aperture of variable size, and a shutter comprising first and second selectively movable shutter blades for sequentially uncovering and covering the exposure aperture, respectively, during an exposure interval. Shutter speed is varied automatically by moving the second blade a variable time before commencing movement of the first shutter blade. The second shutter blade and diaphragm are coupled together by a control member such that the aperture size as well as exposure interval are varied in proportion to each other prior to an exposure. A movable latch member operably associated with a level-sensing light-sensitive circuit latches the diaphragm in an aperture regulating position which is functionally related to scene light intensity.

Abstract: An electronic flash device includes a control circuit for extending the operational life of the flash battery. In one preferred embodiment the flash device is of the type having a monitor circuit responsive to the charge on the flashtube firing capacitor that (1) operably couples the flash battery to a charging circuit when the charge on the firing capacitor is below a predetermined level, and (2) de-couples the battery from the charging circuit when the firing capacitor charge is above the predetermined level. The control circuit comprises a counter for counting the number of times the monitor circuit couples the battery to the charging circuit and for producing a control signal, when the number counted reaches a pre-set value, that overrides the monitor circuit to maintain the battery de-coupled from the charging circuit.