Abstract: A system for recording information related to the camera exposure parameters of film image frames in a detachable, disc-shaped, memory module attached to the end of a film cartridge loaded in the camera in non-volatile memory for subsequent read-out. A set of concentric, circular, conductive bands are spaced apart and electrically isolated from one another on the exposed surface of the disc-shaped module housing. An integrated circuit chip, including a non-volatile memory, within the module, has a plurality of input and output terminals connected to the plurality of concentric conductive bands. A camera receives the film cartridge and attached memory module in a cartridge receiving chamber and has a plurality of contact terminals positioned to make electrical contact with the respective plurality of concentric conductive bands.

Abstract: An exposure balance arrangement for a film or electronic camera employs a matrix metering full frame CCD which looks at an image and bit maps pixel locations of high light intensity. This information is used to selectively darken areas on an X-Y addressable electronic shutter through which the image passes.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for indicating an improper operating condition of a camera prior to use of the camera utilizes a motion detector which detects handling of the camera by the photographer when the camera is turned off. The motion detector provides an output to activate analyzing circuitry which analyzes an operating condition of the camera such that when an improper operating condition is indicated, an alarm is issued to advise the photographer of the improper operating condition.

Abstract: A processor for particulate material including a cylindrical vortex chamber, a main inlet duct communicating with the chamber at one otherwise closed end for supplying particulate substance in a direction substantially tangential to the interior surface of the vortex chamber and preferably inclined toward the other end, with the cylindrical portion of the vortex chamber being provided with a number of further inlets for the supply of active medium consisting essentially of slits in the vessel wall, with adjacent portions of vessel wall being bent out of the cylindrical curved plane, forming, by such bent portions, inlets which will direct the active medium into the vortex chamber in a tangential and inclined direction similar to the preferred direction of the inlet duct. A particulate material outlet and active medium outlet are also provided.