Abstract: An automated film encoding and decoding system for bringing photographic film from the state of exposure to subject matter through all of the processes required to produce finished photos and package the same. The system includes an encoder coordinately operative with a camera for the placement of a human and machine readable code on the film the decoder capable of reading the code for the control of production-processing equipment in laboratories provided with such equipment. The human readability of the code accommodates production-processing of the film by attendant personnel and also allows for quality control check of automated production-processisng equipment. The encoding includes film frame identification information, subject matter information and registration mark information all of which may be utilized on a single exposure situation.

Abstract: A seed planter for planting of large or irregular seeds. A housing is mounted on a frame. The frame carries ground working equipment for opening, planting and closing a seed slot. The housing includes interior walls and partitions that divide it into a seed box and a collector. The collector leads to a seed drop opening to deliver seeds for planting in the open seed slot. The seed box has a single seed bin or can be divided into multiple seed bins. A gathering chain is associated with each seed bin. Each gathering chain has one or more seed cups. The gathering chain is positioned to move the seed cups through an inlet opening in each seed bin, up through the seed bin where the seed cup can pick a seed, and out of the seed bin to drop the seed into the collector. The seed cups can be relatively spaced on the gathering chain, and with respect to cup on the other gathering chains, to regulate the spacing between seeds being deposited. Seeds of different species can be located in the various seed bins.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a multiple camera system which captures a photo image on film and captures and stores an electronic image on a magnetic recording media. The system has two operating states. In the "compose" or "view" state the electronic image channel is operated at a first gain setting, color temperature and F-stop to provide a real time moving image on a monitor. In the capture state the electronic gain, color temperature, and F-stop of the electronic camera are altered to collect or capture an electronic image during strobe illumination. The system utilizes a pair of dedicated zoom lenses, which are mechanically corrected for parallax error and the focal length of the two lenses are matched and linked together so that their focal lengths may be altered simultaneously by the operator.