Abstract: A method for processing a silver halide photographic element having a support on the bottom and a light sensitive silver halide emulsion layer on the top, comprising:directing a ray of infrared light in a direction so as to fall on the top side of the element;detecting the presence or absence of infrared light reflected from the top of the element whereby the presence or absence of the element can be determined; andusing the detection of the reflected infrared light to control a processing step.The invention also provides a device capable of performing the method as described.

Abstract: A package 10 for storing and delivering rolls of photosensitive web (A) to a photoprinter has a housing 12 comprising an interior compartment 14 and a removably mounted shaft 32 for supporting the rolls of web (A) . A top wall 24 is removably mounted to the housing 12 in a light-lock relationship and includes a openable member 100 for accessing the interior compartment 14. Slot-like openings 80, in communications with the interior compartment 14, provide paths for delivering strips of photosensitive web 70 from the interior compartment 14. In another embodiment, a method for loading rolls of photosensitive web (A) into the package 10 above includes removing the shaft 32 and loading thereon the rolls of photosensitive web (A) . The shaft 32 supporting the rolls of photosensitive web (A) is then inserted into the opening 27 of the housing 12 and the top wall 24 is remounted onto the top edge 25 of housing 12.

Abstract: An energy source apparatus which will supply current and compressed air. The energy source apparatus has an engine, a drive shaft engaged to the engine, and a face plate that is bound to the drive shaft in order to rotate therewith. A clutch is pivotally mounted to the face plate such as to respond to centrifugal force. A second drive shaft has an end rotatably positioned within the clutch such that the outside circumferential surface of the end of the second drive shaft is engaged by inner clutch pads of the clutch. A third drive shaft has a hollow end which is positioned around the clutch apparatus such that when the engine rotates the face plate at high speeds, centrifugal force causes outer clutch pads of the clutch to engage with the hollow end of the third drive shaft. A generator is engaged to the third drive shaft to be driven thereby. An air compressor is engaged to the second drive shaft in order to be driven thereby too.