Abstract: The present invention provides a method, apparatus and system that pre-scans and pre-treats film for improved digital film processing. The apparatus for use with the invention includes, generally, a sensor for detecting one or more imperfections on the film and a microprocessor connected to the sensor that determines the amount and extent of imperfections of the film based on one or more reference readings. The present invention may also include a tape dispenser, cleaning rollers, a blower or vacuum to remove and/or correct any imperfections in the film. One embodiment includes a cleaning system for a particle removal member which removes particles from film. The cleaning system is relatively movable and selectively contactable with the particle removal member to clean particles from the particle removal member.

Abstract: A slot coater device is provided for applying a processing solution, such as developer, to film during film development. The slot coater includes a housing having an opening for dispensing the processing solution, a reservoir within the housing adapted to receive a predetermined amount of the processing solution, and a channel for delivering the processing solution from the reservoir to the opening.

Abstract: A digital film processing system is provided. Each scanning module in the system has a removable mounting panel to which the scanning and transportation components are secured. An opening or door can be provided between the modules to compensate for film buckling. The film can be tensioned during scanning for control over its position. Tape can be attached to side edges of the film, and the tape can be moved through the system, avoiding contact with the film. Also, a belt transport system can be utilized to contact the film (or attached tape) only on the lateral edges. The film may be threaded through the system by using a leader attached to the lead edge of the film. To transport the film and leader, a transport mechanism having a roller connecting a pair of sprockets may be used, and a single drive unit may be provided to pull the film.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method, apparatus and system that pre-scans and pre-treats film for improved digital film processing. The apparatus for use with the invention includes, generally, a sensor for detecting one or more imperfections on the film and a microprocessor connected to the sensor that determines the amount and extent of imperfections of the film based on one or more reference readings. The present invention may also include a tape dispenser, cleaning rollers, a blower or vacuum to remove and/or correct any imperfections in the film. One embodiment includes a cleaning system for a particle removal member which removes particles from film. The cleaning system is relatively movable and selectively contactable with the particle removal member to clean particles from the particle removal member.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for creating a single digital image file from multiple digital images while minimizing cost, complexity, and/or size of the system. A single imaging station is used to generate a plurality of digital images from a medium, each digital image representing the same source image on the medium. The plurality of digital images are combined to create a single digital image which represents the source image. In one exemplary embodiment, the medium is moved a plurality of times in a continuous unidirectional path through the imaging station to create the digital images. The medium can be applied to a transport structure, such as a wheel, which can be rotated to recirculate the medium through the imaging station. The medium can comprise developing film, and the imaging station can comprise a front source, a front sensor, a back source, and a back sensor.