Abstract: A microfilm scanning apparatus of the entrance scanner type has a microfilm, normally mounted in an aperture card which is mounted on a curved surface of a plano-convex cylindrical lens platten. The microfilm is scanned in one direction by radiant energy produced by a laser diode, scanning being effected by facets on a bevelled edge polygon mirror which is rotated by a motor. So as to perform scanning in a direction orthogonal to the scanning produced by the mirror, the platten is driven by a stepping motor. The curved surface of the platten is arranged to coincide with the loci of the focus of the scanning beam as the mirror rotates. By the provision of a curved surface platten, a simple spherical lens system may be interposed between the mirror and platten.

Abstract: A microfilm aperture and handling machine has punched card reading and punching means, single means capable of both scanning and plotting microfilm images, a photographic developer station for developing plotted images, and control means enabling selective operation to read existing data carried by a card or to create data on a previously blank card. The machine integrates functions normally found only in separate machines. The single scanner/plotter means scans a microfilm image from the central axis of a cylindrical platen. The developer station injects chemicals into a chamber of which the microfilm emulsion area forms one wall by peripheral clamping.