Abstract: A photoplastic film recording and monitoring apparatus has a rotatable mirror which in one position establishes a first optical path from a copy holding station through an objective lens to an image plane where a platen is provided for supporting a transmissively readable fiche of photoplastic film. In a second position of the rotatable mirror a second optical path is established from a projection light source through the image plane and the objective lens onto a viewing screen. In one embodiment a lens turret has a plurality of lenses of different focal lengths for providing different magnification ratios in order to photograph different size original copy. System controls are provided for automatically reverting to that one of the lenses which affords full screen projection of the image from the fiche frame onto the viewing screen regardless of the reduction ratio chosen for photocopying.

Abstract: Process and apparatus for duplicating on microfiche the intelligence appearing on a photoplastic microfiche master by irradiating the duplicate through the master with high intensity moderately collimated light. Photoplastic film having a relatively thick thermoplastic layer is used as the master. The master and the duplicate are separated by a gap of predetermined size, which gap can be filled by air, plastic, glass or any other transparent medium. Multiple light sources isolated from one another, are used and provision is made for absorbing and dissipating some of the heat before the light reaches the master. Means are provided for assuring relatively uniform light intensity across the entire recording face and for assuring consistent irradiation of the duplicate irrespective of lamp age or line voltage variations.

Abstract: Camera and imaging processing apparatus for producing rippled message images in frame areas of specular surfaced photoplastic film having a conductive substrate below an upper heat-softenable and image rippleable emulsion layer. Images are formed by image patterned electrostatic charge and heat deformation, and are erased at higher temperatures for re-recording. A film support includes a lateral platen having an opening to permit contact of the back of the film with a moveable heatable metallic block to effect conduction heat softening. The conductive substrate of the film is held at ground potential, and a charging apparatus interposed between the film and an objective lens, through which the image to be recorded is projected, imposes a large electrostatic charge differential on the platen to cause the film to be snugged to the platen. The charging apparatus includes a housing which defines an optical aperture.