Photosensitive sheet film package and sheet film processing apparatus

Abstract

A photosensitive sheet film package, comprises a container including a floor plate having at least four sides, and side walls, wherein each of the four sides of the floor plate is connected to at least one of the side walls; and wherein the top of the space surrounded by the side walls is opened, a stack of photosensitive sheet films in said container; and a light-shielding bag in which the stack of photosensitive sheet films and the container are packaged light-tightly.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a sheet film package of new configuration using a container with at least the top surface thereof being open, wherein sheet films stacked on the bottom plate of this container are held in a light-tight state. It also relates to a sheet film supply apparatus for supplying a sheet film stored in such a sheet film package to an image recording unit in an image recording apparatus such as a laser imager, a sheet film supply method and a sheet film loading method.

[0002] A system known in the prior art is characterized in that image formation filmed by an image photographing apparatus for medical treatment such as CT and MRI is provided with image processing such as gradation treatment, and the image data is then sent to an image recording apparatus such as a laser imager, whereby the image is recorded on a sheet film comprising a photosensitive material such as heat developing photosensitive material through scanning of laser beam driven and controlled according to the aforementioned image data.

[0003] The image recording apparatus according to the aforementioned embodiment comprises a sheet film supply apparatus for supplying sheet film to a recording unit, and this sheet film supply apparatus is controlled by control means in such a way that sheet film can be supplied sheet by sheet in response to recording and canning.

[0004] FIG. 18(a) is a drawing representing a prior art sheet film package (hereinafter referred to as “film package”).

[0005] As shown in FIG. 18(a), a prior art film package is stacked in a state sandwiched between U-shaped protective cardboards 2 comprising a bottom plate having almost the same size as a film, a side wall rising from this bottom plate, and an upper wall of a smaller width (in the lateral direction in the Figure) than that of the film F, this upper wall contacting the side wall and extending in the same direction as the side wall. This package is placed in a barrier bag 3 for protection against light and moisture, and are transported, stored or handled in other ways.

[0006] For example, an unused film package 1 is placed on a sheet mounting base (hereinafter referred to as “tray”) pulled out of the apparatus proper, and One side 351 of two opposing sides 350 and 351 of the barrier bag is placed under guide members 520 and 525 to be engaged with a barrier bag removing member 550. After one side 350 has been cut to release the air tightness, the cover member 6 is covered in a light-tight state, and the tray is then returned to the apparatus proper. When package feed is started, the aforementioned barrier-removing member 550 pulls out one side 351 of the aforementioned barrier bag 3 in the arrow-marked direction so that the film sheet F is exposed to permit transport.

[0007] Then the aforementioned cover member 6 is removed from the tray 5, and film F is taken out sheet by sheet and is fed to a recording unit.

[0008] The aforementioned film F is fed, for example, film holding means for sucking the topmost film from a laminate and a feed roller for feeding the film F separated by the film holding means.

[0009] However, an image recording apparatus using the sheet film package having the aforementioned configuration has a problem that the direction of feeding the sheet film taken out of the tray is determined in a unique manner.

[0010] In other words, the only possible way is that the sheet film held by film holding means, while being held at a higher place, is fed in the direction (left in FIG. 18) opposite to the side wall or top plate. For the image recording apparatus arranged in such a way that sheet film is sent to the right of FIG. 18 or in the direction orthogonal to the direction of removing the barrier bag. For example, there has been a problem in the prior art that the direction of sheet film package placed on the tray must be changed in response to the feed direction of each image recording apparatus.

[0011] The present invention has been made to solve the aforementioned problem. The first object is to provide a sheet film package which can be easily used in an image recording apparatus for feeding sheet film in the direction opposite to the direction of removing a barrier bag wherein the top surface of a sheet film storage container is arranged in an open configuration, and an image recording apparatus configured to feed sheet film in the direction orthogonal to the direction of removing the barrier bag.

[0012] FIG. 18(b) is a drawing showing a problem with the prior art film package. In a film package storing a smaller number of sheets, for example, storing 25 sheets per set, when film is moved in the vertical direction during transportation or barrier bag 3 is pulled out for use, the protective cardboard 2 is also fed together, with the result that barrier bag 3 is difficult to pull out independently, as shown in Figure.

[0013] The second object of the present invention is to solve the aforementioned problem and to provide a film package which prevents a film container from being deformed by removal of a barrier, independently of the volume of film stored in a container.

[0014] FIG. 19 is a schematic front view of a film supply apparatus showing a prior art example proposed above. The film supply apparatus 2 comprises;

[0015] a film package 10 wherein sheet film stacked on a cardboard container 20 is covered with a barrier bag 101 in a light-tight state (the rear end already cut off, and the barrier bag 101 wound on the winding shaft 83 in FIG. 19),

[0016] film holding means for sucking and feeding the sheet film F, and

[0017] fixed separating means 270 for separating the sucked sheets of film F from one another.

[0018] The aforementioned tray 8 comprises;

[0019] a film loading space 8b, a pair of rollers 81 and 82 arranged close to an end face 20a of the film package 10 for grip the barrier bag 101 from the top and bottom, and a cover material 208 movably mounted to cover a winding shaft 83 and tray 8, wherein the winding shaft 83 is provided with an engagement protrusion 84 for winding the barrier bag 101.

[0020] Film is loaded according to the following step: The film package 10 is inserted into the space 8b of the tray at the loading position of a film loading unit 230 (not illustrated), and a plurality of through holes 103 to 105 (not illustrated) are inserted into the engagement protrusion 84 of the winding shaft 83. After that, the cover member 208 is moved to the side end 8a in the arrow marked direction to enclose the film package 10, and the rear end (on the side of a feed roller 9 of the barrier bag 101 protruding from the tray is cut off. When an user has pushed the film loading unit 230 to a predetermined position, then the cover member 208 is moved in the direction of an arrow mark through the protrusion 204 to form an aperture A. Then the winding shaft 83 is driven to load the film.

[0021] When film has been loaded, the thin cardboard container 20 covering the sheet film F in a U-shaped configuration is arranged without being deformed, as shown as illustrated.

[0022] Under this condition, film holding means 222 is lowered and a semispheric suction cup provided at the bottom end contacts the sheet film F to suck it.

[0023] After sucking the film, the film holding means 22 again rises to a predetermined position. In this case, one of stacked sheets attached to the bottom side of sheet film F (0.1 to 0.2 mm thick for each sheet) may be carried together.

[0024] So in the step of upward traveling, the film holding means 222 is raised to a position higher than the fixed separating means 270, and the tip portion of sheet film F closely bonded the lower surface of the separating means 270 is pushed down and made to be bent, whereby sheets of film F bonded closely with each other are separated.

[0025] After separation, sucked sheet film F is moved to the feed roller R1 and is gripped and fed forward.

[0026] In the aforementioned step of separation, the sheets of film F held in close contact with each other are bent in the same manner, and this action produces a force of separation to cause the aforementioned sheets of film F to be separated. This results in restoration to the original plane surface. The tip of sheet film F may spring out onto the side end Sa on the left of the tray due to this force of restoration.

[0027] As a result, a problem of suction failure or failure of delivery to the feed roller R1 subsequent to suction has occurred in the next step of suction.

[0028] After making studies in an efforts to solve the aforementioned problems, the prevent inventors have found out that the position of sucking the aforementioned sheet film F is adjusted by moving the sheet film F having sprung from the tray 8 in the direction opposite to the feed direction so that one end (rear end) of sheet film F contacts the end face 20a of the cardboard container 20, whereby the sheet film F can be sucked and fed effectively.

[0029] FIG. 20 is a schematic front view of the tray representing the deformation of a cardboard container when there is a small volume of sheet film.

[0030] However, when there is a great volume of sheet film, a thin cardboard container 20 is not deformed. When the remaining film decreases, one end of sheet film F is brought into contact with the end face 20a in the vicinity of a pair of rollers 81 and 82, the side wall of the aforementioned container 20 is bent and distorted.

[0031] As a result, the film sheet F may be located past a predetermined position.

[0032] However, the following new problem has arisen: When the sheet film F is sucked from the aforementioned position by film holding means 222, and is fed to the feed roller R1 to be gripped, the sheet film F cannot be fed without its tip reaching the feed roller R1.

[0033] The present invention has been made to solve the aforementioned problem. A third object of this invention is to ensure that the sheet film having sprung out onto the side end of the tray is got back to the container without giving adverse effect to the quality. A further object is to provide a film supply apparatus and film supply method capable of ensuring a constant position for sheet film suction by manufacturing a container provided with a side wall which is impervious to being deformed by the contact of sheet film in the step of returning into the container.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0034] The first object of the present invention can be attained by the following configuration:

[0035] (1) A sheet film package comprising;

[0036] a container comprising a bottom plate and at least one of the side walls rising from this bottom plate,

[0037] sheet film stacked on this bottom plate, and

[0038] a barrier bag for holding the sheet film and container in a light-tight state;

[0039] wherein pressure inside the barrier bag is negative.

[0040] (2) A sheet film processing unit comprising;

[0041] a tray capable of being loaded with a sheet film package further containing; a container comprising a bottom plate and at least one of the side walls rising from this bottom plate; sheet film stacked on this bottom plate; and a barrier bag for holding the sheet film and container in a light-tight state; the aforementioned tray being capable of moving between the first position where this tray is moved out of the apparatus proper and the second position where the aforementioned sheet film can be taken out inside the apparatus proper;

[0042] pullout means for pulling out the barrier from the sheet film package and aperture the upper surface of the sheet film,

[0043] power transmission means for driving the pullout means, and

[0044] holding means for taking out the sheet film at the second position.

[0045] (3) A sheet film supply method characterized in that; a sheet film package is loaded at a predetermined position of the apparatus proper, wherein this sheet film package comprises a container further comprising; a bottom plate and at least one of the side walls rising from this bottom plate; sheet film stacked on this bottom plate; and a barrier bag for holding the sheet film and container in a light-tight state; and

[0046] this barrier is removed from at least one of the side walls, whereby the sheet film on the top position is taken out by the film holding means through the open area formed on the upper surface of the sheet film.

[0047] (4) A sheet film loading method characterized by comprising;

[0048] a step of mounting the sheet film package on the tray located at the first position;

[0049] a step of engaging the engagement section of the barrier bag with the engagement member of the pullout mean,

[0050] a step of pulling out the battier bag by the pullout means during the movement from the first to second positions, and

[0051] a step of loading the sheet film removably on the tray; using a sheet film processing unit comprising;

[0052] a tray for being loaded with a sheet film package wherein one end of the barrier bag is provided with an engagement section and the other end opposite thereto is cut off; the aforementioned tray further containing; a container comprising a bottom plate and at least one of the side walls rising from this bottom plate; sheet film stacked on this bottom plate; and a barrier bag for holding the sheet film and container in a light-tight state; the aforementioned tray being capable of moving between the first position where this tray can be moved out of the apparatus proper and the second position where the aforementioned sheet film can be taken out inside the apparatus proper;

[0053] pullout means for pulling out the barrier from the sheet film package and aperture the upper surface of the sheet film;

[0054] power transmission means for transmitting the moving force produced by the movement of the tray between the first and second positions to drive the pullout means; and

[0055] holding means for taking out the sheet film at the second position.

[0056] (5) A sheet film loading method characterized by comprising;

[0057] a step of mounting the sheet film package on the tray located at the first position;

[0058] a step of engaging the engagement section of the barrier bag with the engagement member of the pullout mean;

[0059] a step of pulling out the battier bag by the pullout means subsequent to the movement from the first to second positions; and

[0060] a step of loading the sheet film removably on the tray; using a sheet film processing unit comprising;

[0061] a tray for being loaded with a sheet film package wherein one end of the barrier bag is provided with an engagement section and the other end opposite thereto is cut off; the aforementioned tray further containing; a container comprising a bottom plate and at least one of the side walls rising from this bottom plate; sheet film stacked on this bottom plate; and a barrier bag for holding the sheet film and container in a light-tight state; the aforementioned tray being capable of moving between the first position where this tray can be moved out of the apparatus proper and the second position where the aforementioned sheet film can be taken out inside the apparatus proper;

[0062] pullout means for pulling out the barrier from the sheet film package and aperture the upper surface of the sheet film;

[0063] power transmission means for transmitting the moving force produced by the movement of the tray between the first and second positions to drive the pullout means; and

[0064] holding means for taking out the sheet film at the second position.

[0065] The second of the present invention can be attained by the following sheet film package 4:

[0066] (6) A sheet film package comprising a top-opened storage container having a plurality of stacked film sheets in the barrier bag which is sealed with negative pressure maintained;

[0067] the aforementioned sheet film further characterized in that, after this sheet film has been loaded in a sheet mounting base of an image recording apparatus, this barrier bag is removed by barrier removing means of this image recording apparatus;

[0068] wherein the aforementioned storage container comprises a bottom and at least one side wall rising from this bottom and formed integrally therewith, and the aforementioned side battier is provided with a high degree of rigidity against deformation caused when the aforementioned battier is removed.

[0069] (7) A sheet film package according to (6) characterized in that the aforementioned barrier bag has an aperture which is opened in such a way that the barrier bag is separated from a storage container loaded with a plurality of stacked film sheets when removed by the battier removing means of the aforementioned image recording apparatus.

[0070] (8) A sheet film package comprising a top-opened storage container having a plurality of stacked film sheets in the barrier bag which is sealed with negative pressure maintained;

[0071] the aforementioned sheet film further characterized in that, after this sheet film has been loaded in a sheet mounting base of an image recording apparatus, this barrier bag is removed by barrier removing means of this image recording apparatus, and a barcode for identifying information on the characteristics of the aforementioned sheet film is provided at a predetermined position corresponding to the bottom of the storage container of the barrier bag.

[0072] (9) A sheet film package comprising a top-opened storage container having a plurality of stacked film sheets in the barrier bag which is sealed with negative pressure maintained;

[0073] the aforementioned sheet film further characterized in that, after this sheet film has been loaded in a sheet mounting base of an image recording apparatus, this barrier bag is removed by barrier removing means of this image recording apparatus;

[0074] wherein the aforementioned storage container comprises a bottom and a side wall rising from this bottom and formed integrally therewith at least on the side of the barrier removing means, and the side wall of the barrier removing means is made of plastic material.

[0075] The third object of the present invention can be achieved by the following configuration:

[0076] (10) A film supply apparatus for supplying sheet film to feeding means in a form separated in each sheet wherein the aforementioned sheet film is stored in a container comprising a bottom plate and at least one side wall rising from the bottom plate;

[0077] the aforementioned film supply apparatus further characterized by comprising;

[0078] a step of ensuring that film holding means for sucking and feeding the sheet film is bought in contact with the film sheet on the stop position;

[0079] a step of moving it in the direction opposite to the sheet film feed direction with its contact with the film maintained;

[0080] a step of contacting one of the topmost film sheet with the side wall, and

[0081] a step of sucking the sheet film and feeding it to the feeding means thereafter.

[0082] (11) A film supply apparatus characterized by comprising;

[0083] a step of ensuring that film holding means for sucking and feeding the sheet film is bought in contact with the film sheet on the stop position;

[0084] a step of moving it in the direction opposite to the sheet film feed direction with its contact with the film maintained;

[0085] a step of contacting one of the topmost film sheet with the side wall, and

[0086] a step of sucking the sheet film and feeding it to the feeding means thereafter.

[0087] (12) A film supply apparatus for supplying sheet film to feeding means in a form separated in each sheet wherein the aforementioned sheet film is stored in a container comprising a bottom plate and at least one side wall rising from the bottom plate;

[0088] the aforementioned film supply apparatus further characterized by comprising;

[0089] a step of ensuring that film holding means for sucking and feeding the sheet film is bought in contact with the film sheet on the stop position;

[0090] a step of moving it in the direction opposite to the sheet film feed direction with its contact with the film maintained;

[0091] a step of contacting one of the topmost film sheet with the side wall,

[0092] a step of releasing the aforementioned contact followed by a step of establishing the contact again; and

[0093] a step of sucking the sheet film and feeding it to the feeding means thereafter.

[0094] (13) A film supply method comprising;

[0095] a step of ensuring that film holding means including a suction cup for sucking the sheet film contained in a container and feeding this film is made to dangle with respect to the aforementioned sheet film so that the holding means contacts the film sheet on the top position;

[0096] a step of moving the film holding means under this condition in the direction opposite to sheet film feed to that the rear end of the sheet film on the top position contacts the side wall of the container;

[0097] a step of separating the film holding means from the sheet film on the top position and moving it back by the last moved distance so as to contact it to the sheet film on the top position again;

[0098] a step of using a suction control function for sucking the sheet film on the top position thereafter;

[0099] a step of raising it in the vertical direction with respect to the sheet film surface; whereby a feed roller grips the sheet film.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0100] FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view of an image recording apparatus comprising a laser imager;

[0101] FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view explaining power transmitting means for barrier bag removing means used to pull out a barrier bag;

[0102] FIGS. 3(a) to 3(i) each is a perspective view of a container constituting a sheet film package;

[0103] FIG. 4 is a schematic side view showing a sheet film package loaded on a tray;

[0104] FIG. 5 is a schematic side view showing how a tray loaded with a sheet film package is pushed into a predetermined position of the apparatus proper;

[0105] FIG. 6 is a drawing representing an improved film package as one of the embodiments of the present invention;

[0106] FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view explaining power transmitting means for barrier bag removing means used to pull out a barrier bag;

[0107] FIG. 8 is a schematic side view showing the film package loaded on a tray;

[0108] FIG. 9 is a schematic side view showing how the tray loaded with a sheet film package is pushed into a predetermined position of the apparatus proper;

[0109] FIG. 10 is a schematic front view showing the overall configuration of an image recording apparatus comprising a laser imager based on a dry silver halide heat developing method;

[0110] FIG. 11 is a plan view of a barrier bag;

[0111] FIGS. 12(a) and (c) each is a plan view and FIG. 12(b) and FIG. 12(d) each is a side view showing an example of the resin-made container formed integrally therewith;

[0112] FIG. 13 is a schematic front view of the film supply apparatus showing the initial s storage of a film package;

[0113] FIG. 14 is a schematic front view including a two-stage film supply apparatus and a film feeding path;

[0114] FIGS. 15(a) and 15(b) each is a schematic front view representing a film supply apparatus giving details of a pickup mechanism;

[0115] FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram representing means (a member) as a constituent of a film supply unit in a separate form;

[0116] FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view for easier understanding of a film supply unit;

[0117] FIG. 18(a) is a drawing representing a prior art film package;

[0118] FIG. 18(b) is a drawing showing problems found in the conventional film package;

[0119] FIG. 19 is a schematic front view representing a film supply apparatus as a prior art example; and

[0120] FIG. 20 is a schematic front view of a tray showing the deformation of a cardboard container storing a small amount of sheet film.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0121] The following describes preferred embodiments to attain the first object of the present invention with reference to drawings:

[0122] FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view of an image recording apparatus comprising a laser imager. It shows the tray pulled out from a predetermined position in the apparatus proper, and does not include the configuration of a scanning unit by laser beam or heat developer.

[0123] FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view explaining power transmitting means for barrier bag removing means used to pull out a barrier bag. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a container constituting a sheet film package. FIG. 4 is a schematic side view showing a sheet film package loaded on a tray. FIG. 5 is a schematic side view showing how a tray loaded with a sheet film package is pushed into a predetermined position of the apparatus proper. FIG. 6 is a drawing representing an improved film package as one of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0124] In these figures, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same means (member) as those mentioned above.

[0125] In FIG. 1, a tray 5 comprises a front plate 500, left plate 501, right plate 503, back plate 505 and bottom plate 507. For example, it can travel between the first position where it is pulled out of the apparatus proper to mount (store) a sheet film package 1 (hereinafter referred to as “film package”) to be described later, and the second position inside the apparatus proper where sheet film (hereinafter referred to as “film”) comprising a photosensitive material for heat development is taken out.

[0126] A member for removing the barrier bag 3 of the film package is arranged on the rear plate of the aforementioned tray 5.

[0127] Numerals 520 and 525 in FIG. 4 denote a guide member comprising a pair of rollers. When the barrier bag 3 is to be removed, one end 301 of the barrier bag 3 is passed through the gap between these two rollers and is then anchored to the pullout means to be discussed later.

[0128] Numeral 550 is pullout means arranged closer to the rear plate 505 than the aforementioned guide member. It comprises a winding member 551 comprising a roller for pulling out the barrier bag and winding, and a plurality of anchoring members 553 arranged in the axial direction of the winding member 551.

[0129] The aforementioned anchoring member 553 is a member engaged with an anchoring member 305 comprising a hole formed on one end 301 of the barrier bag. It comprises a pin-like member with its top bent to prevent the barrier bag from being disconnected when the barrier bag is pulled out.

[0130] Pinion gears 560 and 565 are arranged on the shaft of the aforementioned winding member 550, to put it more specifically, on the winding member 550 extending outside the left plate 501 and right plate 503. Racks 580 and 585 meshing with the pinion gears are arranged on the side of the apparatus proper.

[0131] Referring now to FIG. 2 giving brief description, when the tray 5 is moved from the first to second positions, traveling force through meshing between the pinion gears 560 and 565 and racks 580 and 585 is transmitted to the aforementioned pullout means 550 (here synonymous with the winding member 551), and the winding member 551 is turned in a predetermined direction.

[0132] In other words, meshing between the pinion rack and gear (pinion-rack gearing mechanism) constitutes power transmitting means for the aforementioned pullout means 550.

[0133] As is apparent from FIG. 3(a), container 7 for supporting film F in a stacked state is configured in a box structure comprising a bottom plate 700 and four side walls 701, 703, 705 and 707 rising from the bottom plate with the entire top area opened up. The side wall close to a corner C is cut off a proper length.

[0134] Formation of the corner C provides an easy adaptation to automation of film stacking work (loading of film).

[0135] As can be seen from FIG. 3(b), by cutting the side face of the side wall into a slant side face, the upper space of each corners can be made wider, thereby making it easy to place films in the container. Also, when the container is placed into or removed from the barrier bag, since the upper portions of the side wall hardly hitch on the barrier bag, placing or removing can be conducted easily.

[0136] As can be seen from FIG. 3(c), by making the side walls to be small pieces of walls, opening sections on the side walls become wider, thereby making it easy to handle films. Further, air can easily flow between stacked films from the opening sections of the side walls so that films can be handled easily when the films are fed out from the container.

[0137] As can be seen from FIG. 3(d), by providing L-shaped corner walls at the corner sections so as to open side section of the container, as same as the example in FIG. 3(c), handling films can be conducted easily and air can easily flow between stacked films from the opening sections of the side walls so that films can be handled easily when the films are fed out from the container.

[0138] As can be seen from FIG. 3(e), by providing opening sections on the bottom portion of the container, air can easily flow from the opening sections of the bottom portion so that films can be handled easily when the films are fed out from the container. Further, the presence or absence of films can be detected from the opening sections of the bottom portion.

[0139] The side wall of the aforementioned container 7 can be restricted to three sides to facilitate film loading work in a dark room. It can also be restricted to two or even one side.

[0140] A container, if the side wall thereof is formed of one to three sides, may not be worthy of the name of a container, but the container according to the present invention is defined as containing such a form.

[0141] To avoid feeding of an entrained film or running out of control, it is preferred that the side wall is located in the direction of removing the barrier bag (where there is pullout means).

[0142] The top end of the aforementioned side wall is designed to have a round shape to minimize resistance when the barrier bag is removed.

[0143] As can be seen from FIG. 3(f), by making the height of the side wall lower than the level of the upper portion of stacked films, the side walls do not interfere to separate the barrier bag.

[0144] In the present embodiment, the container 7 is formed of PET resin (polyethylene terephthalate) since this material is comparatively static-free with respect to film, and is convenient in handling and suited to the environment. But it can be made of HIPS (high polystyrene) or any other material if it meets the functional requirements.

[0145] Both ends 300 and 301 of the barrier bag 3 for covering the container 7 storing multiple sheets of film in a light proof state (see FIG. 6 for the film package 1 covered with barrier bag 3) are bonded together in an appropriate manner. One end 301 containing an anchoring section 305 is bonded with the other opposite end 300 with an adhesive of a comparatively low strength so that they can be easily separated from each other.

[0146] In film package 1, the barrier bag has a negative pressure of −60 to −70 KPa, for example. This is intended to ensure that film F does not move out of control in the process of handling.

[0147] Regarding an image recording apparatus having the aforementioned configuration, the following describes the film processing operation with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0148] After the tray 5 is pulled out from the apparatus proper to the first position, the film package 1 is loaded on the bottom plate 700 of the tray, and one end of barrier bag 3 is placed under a guide member 520. Then the anchoring section 305 is engaged with the anchoring member 553 of the pullout means 550 and a cover member 6 is moved to the left in the Figure (indicating the already moved state) in such a way that the top of the tray 5 is a light-tight state.

[0149] Then the tray 5 is pushed in the direction of a predetermined position of the apparatus proper, and is moved by the pinion gears 560 and 565 meshing with racks 580 and 585.

[0150] In other words, pinion gears move while rotating in the clockwise direction, and the barrier bag 3 is pulled out through the rotation of a winding member 551 constituting the pullout means 550 and the anchoring member 553 arranged on the winding member.

[0151] The aforementioned barrier bag 3 is pulled out of the film package 1 by the rotation of the winding member 553, and the easy-to-peel portion on one end 301 is separated. When the tray 5 has come to a predetermined position (second position), it is completely removed from the top surface of the tray 5. Further, the cover member 6 is also moved to the position where it is removed substantially from the tray 5 at least when the film is supplied, with the result that the top surface of the stacked film F is fully open.

[0152] In FIG. 5, reference numeral 8 denotes film holding means. It is controlled as the image recording operation is performed. After it has moved from a predetermined position to vacuum-suck the film F on the topmost position, it carries the film so that film is gripped by the feed roller R.

[0153] A film suction unit 800 of the film holding means 8 is provided at each of three positions in the direction of the front and back of paper surface, and is positioned in such a way that it is placed face to face with the film F at a position a proper distance inside one side of the film.

[0154] Because of the aforementioned configuration, the tray, pullout means, power transmitting means, film holding means and others perform the functions of a film processing apparatus (means for a sequence of operation up to film take-up).

[0155] P denotes a feed route for film F sent by a pair of the aforementioned feed rollers, and film F directed to this feed route is fed to an image recording unit (not illustrated).

[0156] This imager recording unit uses, for example, a photostimulated fluorophore and the X-ray energy having passing through a subject is once stored in the fluorophore. Then photostimulated luminescence produced by laser beam scanning is subjected to photoelectric conversion. Then scanning is performed by laser beam in accordance with the image data from the input side subjected to image processing such as gray scale processing, and a latent image is formed (recorded) on the film (dry silver halide heat development film) in this image recording unit.

[0157] Film F having been treated in the image recording process is placed in close contact with the heating drum (not illustrated) for a proper period of time, and the film F with its latent image made visible by this heat development is discharged onto the ejecting tray as required.

[0158] As described above, in the present embodiment, film is taken out in the direction opposite to the direction where the barrier bag 3 is pulled out. Even if the image recording apparatus has the film holding means 8 and feed route P arranged on the side of pullout means 550, or arranged in the direction of front and back of the paper, there is no problem with the operation since the top surface of film F is open.

[0159] The direction where the film F is taken out and fed and the relationship between the long and short sides of film F are determined for each image recoding apparatus. As a matter of course, the direction of tray 5 is also determined, so only the arrangement of the pullout means 550 and barrier bag 3 should be taken into account when the film package 1 is placed on the tray 5.

[0160] Since the sheet film package includes a container whose top surface is open, it can be easily loaded into a device type having a different feed direction. This has improved convenience.

[0161] In the storage container according to the present invention, at least one rising from the bottom plate 700 and formed integral with it is preferred to be made of a highly rigid plastic material which is not deformed when the barrier bag is removed (pulled out).

[0162] As shown in FIG. 8, a film package for attaining the second object of the present invention is characterized in that, in an film package 1 of a container loaded with stacked film sheets in the number below the permissible number of sheets to be stored, the side corresponding to the aperture 305 as an anchoring section of the barrier bag 3 for holding the film F in a stacked state consists of a rigid plastic material immune to deformation, as described above. In order to avoid problems which tend to occur in the case of the conventional protective cardboard paper when the barrier bag 3 is pulled out.

[0163] This film package 1 can be used without modifying the main unit of the conventional image recording apparatus, and can be manufactured without much change in the production line when this film package including film F is to be manufactured.

[0164] The side wall rising from the bottom plate is made of the plastic and other rigid material on the side of the barrier bag removing means of the sheet film storage container, whereby the barrier bag can be smoothly removed without giving deformation to the side wall.

[0165] In the present embodiment, the barrier bag is forcibly separated and pulled out by the pullout means 550, and the tray driving force is used to drive the pullout means, as described above. In stead of this configuration, it is also possible to use the following arrangement: After one end of the barrier bag is cut off, the tray is pushed into a predetermined position of the apparatus. A gear capable of meshing with the aforementioned pinion gear is provided on the apparatus proper, so that the barrier bag is pulled out by the motor subsequent to meshing between these gears. It is also possible to use a proper combination of these means. The present embodiment provides an extensive range of design freedom.

[0166] If the barrier bag is pulled out by the motor subsequent to meshing between these gears as described above, the barrier bag wound on a winding member can be maintained in a stationary state when a new film package is replaced and loaded into position. Not only that, this configuration allows the tray to be moved easily by a rail. This configuration is preferred for these advantages.

[0167] In the pinion-rack mechanism, the rack on the front side of the apparatus proper (the side close to the first tray position) can be eliminated if the barrier bag can be pulled out in the middle of tray push-in operation.

[0168] FIGS. 7 to 9 show the embodiment of using a motor to drive the pullout means. Referring now to FIG. 7, when the tray 5 is moved from the first position to the second position, the gear 565 is meshed with the gear 585, and the drive force is transmitted to the pullout means 550 (here synonymous with the winding member 551) concurrently with rotation of the drive motor.

[0169] In other words, power transmitting means for the pullout means is provided by the gear 565, drive motor 580 gear 585, etc.

[0170] In FIG. 8, after the tray 5 is pulled out from the apparatus proper to the first position, the film package 1 is placed on the bottom plate 507 and one side 301 of the barrier bag 3 is placed under the guide members 520 and 525. The aperture 305 is engaged with the anchoring member 553, and the cover member 6 is moved to the left in the figure (already moved state shown in the figure) so that the top of the tray 5 will be made light-tight.

[0171] Then when the tray 5 is pushed to a predetermined position of the apparatus proper along a guide rail 570 (FIG. 1), the gear 565 is meshed with the gear 585, and the pullout means 550 can be moved by the gear 585 mounted on the shaft of the drive motor 580.

[0172] In other words, the gear 565 is turned in the clockwise direction and the barrier bag 3 is forcibly separated by the rotation of the winding member 551 constituting the pullout means 550 and the anchoring member 553 arranged on the winding member, whereby pullout operation is carried out.

[0173] A barcode 306 showing the characteristics of film is printed or its label is affixed on the outside of the barrier bag 3 corresponding to the bottom of the stacked film F. Film information is read by a detector 307 attached to the tray 5 through the aperture 508 arranged at a predetermined position of the bottom plate 507 of the tray 5, corresponding to the position of the barcode 306.

[0174] The barrier bag 3 is pulled out from the film package 1 according to the rotation of the winding member 553 at a predetermined position, and is completely removed from the top surface of the tray 5. Further, the cover member 6 is also moved to the position where it is removed substantially from the tray 5 at least when the film is supplied, with the result that the top surface of the stacked film F is fully open.

[0175] In FIG. 9, reference numeral 8 denotes film holding means. It is controlled as the image recording operation is performed. After it has moved from a predetermined position to vacuum-suck the film F on the topmost position, it carries the film so that film is gripped by the feed roller R.

[0176] A film suction unit 800 of the film holding means 8 is provided at each of three positions in the direction of the front and back of paper surface, and is positioned in such a way that it is placed face to face with the film F at a position a proper distance inside one side of the film.

[0177] Because of the aforementioned configuration, the tray, pullout means, power transmitting means, film holding means and others perform the functions of a film processing apparatus (means for a sequence of operation up to film take-up).

[0178] P denotes a feed route for film F sent by a pair of the aforementioned feed rollers, and film F directed to this feed route is fed to an image recording unit (not illustrated).

[0179] The following describes the configuration for attaining the third object of the present invention:

[0180] FIG. 10 is a schematic front view showing the overall configuration of an image recording apparatus comprising a laser imager based on a dry silver halide heat developing method.

[0181] The image recording apparatus 1 shown in the figure is comprises a two-stage film supply unit (hereinafter referred to as “film supply apparatus”) 22, a film feed route 30, a recording unit 40, a heat developing unit 50 and film ejecting unit 60 arranged on the top of the main unit and an electric unit including a controller 700 arranged on the lower portion of the main unit.

[0182] To put it more specifically, the film supply apparatus 22 is arranged integrally with the tray 8 to be described later. It compromises an open/close mechanism 210 including a open/close member 203 for opening or closing the cover member 208 for maintaining in a light-tight state the sheet film F stacked and loaded in the container 20 (hereinafter referred to simply as “film”); a pickup mechanism 220 including the film holding means 222 for picking up the aforementioned film sheet by sheet by vacuum suction according to the recording operation from the aperture formed as the cover member 208 is moved; and a film loading unit 230 including the tray 8.

[0183] A total of three film holding means 222 are arranged at an equally spaced interval on appropriate holding members.

[0184] Numeral 201 denotes a support arm for supporting the open/close member 203, and is connected to a motor (not illustrated) so that it will rotate in one direction about a vertical one-dot chain line.

[0185] Numerals 204 and 205 denote protrusions having a predetermined length. They are pushed by the open/close member 203 when the support arm 201 turns, whereby the cover member 208 is opened or closed.

[0186] In other words, when the support arm 201 turns in the counterclockwise direction (in the direction from the front surface of paper to the right) from the illustrated position, then the open/close member 203 is brought in contact (is engaged) with the protrusion 204. The engagement between the two due to subsequent rotation is converted into the straight rightward displacement of the cover member 208 by the relative positional change, with the result that an aperture having a predetermined width is formed on the side of the film holding means 222.

[0187] If the open/close member 203 continues rotation after engagement with the protrusion 204 has been released by the change in phase due to rotation, then the drive force through engagement with the protrusion 205 is transmitted to the cover member 208. The cover member is gradually moved to the left in the figure in such a way that the aperture is closed. When engagement is released, the original state is recovered by the configuration of the present embodiment.

[0188] The aforementioned film loading unit 203 travels between the first position where it is pulled out to the forward side of paper surface and the second position where it is pushed into the apparatus proper. Film is replaced at the first position.

[0189] The tray 8 has a convex box, and the top surface of the film F is almost fully open. The one end thereof is placed (stored) in a container 20.

[0190] Before being loaded, the film F is held while being stacked in the container 20, and is covered by a known barrier bag in a light-tight state. The pressure inside the barrier bag is assumed as −60 kPa.

[0191] When film F is loaded, it is inserted into the tray 8 in a form called a film package, and the barrier bag 101 is removed by the force of pushing the tray into position, thereby completing the loading of film F.

[0192] The film feed route 3 is formed so as to wind the film supply apparatus 2. It is close to the side plate on the right and left of the apparatus proper.

[0193] The film feed route comprises pairs of feed rollers R1 to R13, guide means (guide plates) arranged between the feed rollers, and a plurality of rollers R in the recording unit 40.

[0194] The recording unit 40 is provided on the lower side of the film supply apparatus 2, and comprises a laser light source, a polygon mirror, a f&thgr; lens, cylindrical lens, etc. It also has an optical scanning unit 400 driven and controlled according to the image data after image processing as described at the outset, and a film feed controller 410 arranged on the film feed route 20 immediately below the optical scanning unit 400. The specific configuration (layout) of the optical scanning unit is not illustrated because it is not new, and the known mechanism can be used.

[0195] The film feed controller 410 comprises a belt, three support rollers SR for supporting the belt, and a feed rollers R in contact with each of the two of these support rollers SR located on the side of the feed route.

[0196] The position controller 420 indicated by a two-dot chain line on the left of the film feed controller 410 controls the fed film F so that the one side thereof will fit to either of the right and left reference positions orthogonal to the direction of feed.

[0197] The heat developing unit 50 has a silicon rubber layer on the surface, and comprises a rotatable drum 450 further containing a heat source inside, a rotatable and small-diameter pressing roller 415 provided to have a light mechanical contact with the surface of the drum 450, a separating means (separating pawl), and a feed roller 10. An appropriate number of the pressing roller 415 are provided in the range from the position for receiving the film fed through the film feed route 30 to the position close to the separating means 471, thereby ensuring uniform development of the film F.

[0198] The film ejecting unit 60 includes a film receiving pan 600 utilizing part of the top surface of the apparatus.

[0199] The image recording apparatus 1 is ranked as a digital X-ray image output apparatus when an image filming device for medical purposes such as X-ray Computed Tomography is used as an X-ray image input device. For example, it is to receive the data having been converted into digital form by the X-ray image input device through the network conforming to DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) Standards on network communications for radiation image data and having been subjected to appropriate image processing such as gray scale processing or frequency processing. This image recording apparatus then performs scanning by laser beam according to this image data, and records the image on the dry silver halide film.

[0200] The CR using photostimulated fluorophore, for example, can be used to convert the X-ray photo into digital form.

[0201] The aforementioned is an art of storing into a fluorophore the X-ray energy having passed through a subject and providing photoelectric conversion of the photostimulated fluorescence produced by laser scanning, thereby obtaining digital X-ray signals.

[0202] In the aforementioned image recording apparatus 1, film feed in response to reception of data from the input device and laser scanning are controlled by the controller 700 including the computer.

[0203] The following describes the operations of the image recording apparatus having above-mentioned configuration, including the control not explained above:

[0204] The image data sent from the input device is once sent to the storage unit in the controller 700 through the Internet.

[0205] When such an actuator as a sensor has confirmed that film F is set in the second position and the surface of the drum 500 has a temperature within a predetermined range, then the support arm 201 inside the open/close mechanism 210 is driven by a motor and the cover 208 is moved by the engagement between the open/close member 203 and protrusion 204, thereby forming an aperture having a predetermined width including the area where the film holding means 222 moves in the vertical direction.

[0206] The a vacuum pump is operated and the film holding means 222 is lowered under the control of guide means (not illustrated) to get in contact with the topmost film.

[0207] When the film holding means 222 is driven to rise, the film F on the topmost position of a stacked bundle of film is separated and fed upward by vacuum suction, and its tip is gripped by the feed roller R1.

[0208] To put it more specifically, approximately when the film holding means 222 is lowered, the feed roller R1 on the lower side waits at the position where a locus formed by the rise of the film tip is not affected, on the one hand. On the other hand, the feed roller R1 on the upper side is located on the locus formed by the rise of the film, so film F separated and fed (lifted) is brought in contact with the feed roller R1 on the upper side when the film holding means 222 is returned to the initial position.

[0209] When the above state is maintained, the feed roller R1 on the lower side is returned to the original position, thereby completing the film F gripping operation. Almost at the same time, the aforementioned vacuum pump stops operation.

[0210] Film F gripped by the feed roller R1 is fed downward through the film feed route 30 by other feed rollers R3, R4 and R5, and the position is adjusted by a position controller 420 including the feed roller R6, whereby the film is fed in the horizontal direction.

[0211] When the film F has reached the recording unit 40, the image data is read from the storage unit. Immediately when a predetermined position of film F has reached the scanning and recording position of the film controller 410, the laser scanning of film F is started in conformity to the image data. During this time, film feed is maintained at a high precision.

[0212] Film F having completed the step of scanning and exposure (formation of a latent image) is pressed against the surface of the drum 450 through a pressing roller 415. Visible images faithful to the latent images are formed sequentially on the film F.

[0213] The aforementioned film F separated from the drum 450 by the separating means 417 is fed by feed rollers R10 to R12, and is discharged onto the film receiving pan 600 by the feed roller R13.

[0214] When there are two or more items of mage data stored in the storage unit, the succeeding film corresponding to this image data is taken out of the container 20 according to the similar process to the preceding step after the lapse of a predetermined time with respect to the film F or after completion of laser scanning of the preceding film. After laser scanning and development, the film is discharged onto the film receiving pan 600. Upon termination of image recording on the final F, rotation of the feed roller or the like is stopped, and the cover member 208 is moved by the open/close member 203. After the remaining film F has been treated, the image recording apparatus is put in the idling mode.

[0215] The following describes containers 20A and 20B (FIG. 12) provided with side walls which are highly resistant to deformation in order to keep a constant position of the film F of the present invention, and film holding means 222 (pickup mechanism 220) for returning to the container in the tray the film having sprung out using the container, without the film quality being affecting:

[0216] FIG. 11 is a plan view of a barrier bag. FIG. 12 is a plan view and side view showing an example of the resin-made container formed integrally therewith.

[0217] FIG. 13 is a schematic front view of a film supply apparatus 22 showing the initial storage of a film package.

[0218] The film package 10 to be inserted into the tray 8 shown in FIG. 13 contains a barrier bag 101 capable of covering the contents in a light-tight state, film F incorporated in this barrier bags 101 and a resin-made container 20A or 20B as a film F protecting member.

[0219] A plurality of engagement holes 103 to 105 are formed on one end 102 of the barrier bag 101, and an information label 63 is affixed on the surface of the barrier bag 101.

[0220] The aforementioned barrier 101 is made of ethylene plus aluminum and PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and is arranged to ensure rigid and light-tight packaging.

[0221] The barrier bag 101 is available to provide packages of rectangular sizes such as 279×355 mm, 355×55 mm and 431×355 mm.

[0222] Engagement holes are provided in the horizontal direction in numbers conforming to film sizes. FIG. 12 shows an example of the container. The container 20A as one of the containers in FIG. 12(a) comprises a bottom plate 241 and U-shaped side wall 242 rising from this bottom plate 241, as shown in the plan view on the left.

[0223] A wart-shaped protrusion 244 for detecting the presence or absence of film is formed on the bottom plate 241. This protrusion is formed on the same plane as the bottom plate 241.

[0224] As shown in the right sketch of FIG. 12(b), different step levels 243 are provided at two positions symmetrical with each other at the end in the longitudinal direction of the side wall 242 formed in a U shape. This is intended to improve workability in the production of film package 10.

[0225] As shown in the left sketch of the Figure, the container 20 shown in FIG. 12(c) has a bottom plate 245, a side wall 246 rising from this bottom plate 245, and two symmetrical side walls 247. Different step levels 249 and 250 are formed on both ends of this longitudinal side wall 247 as shown in FIG. 12(d).

[0226] The bottom plate 245 is provided with a protrusion 248 for detecting the presence or absence of film, similarly to the case of the container 20A.

[0227] The different step levels 249 and 250 are also provided for improved workability, as in the case of the 20A.

[0228] The containers 20A and 20B are made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and have a thickness of 0.8 mm. They are integrally molded by vacuum molding and compressed air molding.

[0229] The function of the lateral side wall 246 of the container 20B and the lateral side wall 242 of the container 20A is to ensure that, when the film F sprung out of the tray 8 to be described later is to be returned, it will contact the side walls 246 and 242, and the position of film F is adjusted so that the position of the film F sucked by the film holding means 222 is kept constant.

[0230] Two side walls 247 and 242 formed in the longitudinal direction control the lateral movement in the film F feed direction.

[0231] Two examples have been described above. Further, it is also possible to use a container having a bottom plate and a side wall rising from this bottom plate, or a concave container having a bottom plate and four side walls rising from this bottom.

[0232] As shown in FIG. 13, when the cover member 208 of the film loading unit 230 at the first position is fully open in the arrow marked direction, one 81 of the pair of rollers 81 and 82 is energized by energizing means (not illustrated) such as a spring, and is moved upward. The engagement holes 103 to 105 formed on one end 102 of the barrier bag 101 is wound inserted into the engagement protrusion 84 of a winding shaft 83 through these two rollers, thereby completing insertion of the film package 10.

[0233] When the cover member 208 is moved fully in the direction opposite to the arrow mark after insertion, the film package 10 can be kept in a light-tight state. In the process of returning the cover member 208 in the direction opposite to the arrow mark by the aforementioned movement, a pair of rollers 81 on the upper side goes back to the lower position indicated by the dotted line.

[0234] An information label 63 is affixed on the surface of the barrier bag 10, and contains information on film sensitivity and film size.

[0235] The aforementioned recorded information is read in the following manner: When the film loading unit 230 is pushed into the second position, the cover member 208 is moved to the position indicated by a two-dot chain line and a predetermined aperture is formed, with the result that the aforementioned information is read by a reading sensor 60 comprising a light emitting element indicated by a dotted line above the film package 10, and a light receiving element.

[0236] The separating means 270 indicated by a dotted line and film holding means 222 are arranged close to the position above the information recording label 63.

[0237] The reading sensor 60 is provided on the film holding means 222 indicated by a dotted line. When the film package 10 is fed below the reading sensor 60, information is read in terms of an incoming signal from the information recording label 63 indicated by an oblique line and a reflected signal (indicated by a dotted line). Then the aforementioned information is sent to the storage unit and controller 700.

[0238] FIG. 14 is a schematic front view representing a two-stage film supply apparatus 22 and film feed route 30. Reference numerals already described will not be explained below to avoid duplication.

[0239] After the film package 10 has been inserted in the tray 8 at the first position (as in the case of the lower tray 9), the cover member 208 is closed and the rear end protruding from the tray 8 (corresponding to lower stage 9e) is cut off. After that, the film loading unit 230 is pushed into the second position, and the cover member 208 is fed to the direction indicated by an arrow through the engagement between the open/close member 203 and protrusion 204, thereby forming an aperture A.

[0240] After formation of this aperture, the winding shaft 83 is turned in the arrow-marked direction, and the barrier bag 101 inserted into the engagement protrusion 84 is wound as illustrated. This step puts the film F ready to be sucked.

[0241] The film loading unit 230 on the lower stage is pulled out to the first position and the film package 10 is inserted in place. Then the cover member 208 is moved and is pushed into the second position. The figure shows the state just before the cover member is pushed into the second position.

[0242] Feed rollers R1, R2, etc. are arranged on the left of the figure. These rollers are used to grip and feed the film F from the tray 8 and film F from the tray 9 on the lower stage.

[0243] FIG. 15(a) is a schematic front view representing a film supply apparatus giving details of a pickup mechanism. FIG. 15(b) shows only the portion where the separated and moved film is gripped by the feed roller.

[0244] The pickup mechanism 220 shown is the one from which the forward frame is removed.

[0245] Reference numerals already described will not be explained below to avoid duplication.

[0246] The pickup mechanism 220 comprises two frames 221, film holding means 222, a lever 251 for vertical movement of the film holding means, separating means and a lever 261 for vertical movement of the separating means.

[0247] A bearing (not illustrated) is provided between two frames 221. Arrangement is made in such a way that a drive shaft 25A is passed through the bearing so that both ends of the drive shaft are protruded out of these frames 221 by a certain length.

[0248] Two cams (not illustrated) are arranged on the aforementioned two ends at the same phase in a symmetrical configuration.

[0249] The levers 251 and 261 interlocked with the cams are both arranged outside the frames 221 at the same phase in a symmetrical configuration.

[0250] The film holding means 222 comprises a bracket as a suction cup holding member 233, a pin 22 located on each side of the bracket and protruding to the outside of both frames on the section arranged in the direction horizontal and vertical to paper surface, and a slot 226 serving as a guide for vertical traveling of the pin 225.

[0251] Three suction cups 224 are provided at an equally spaced interval on the lower portion of the bracket 223. The separating means 270 is formed almost horizontally on the lower side of the separating means 270, comprising a separating plate 271 for separating film, a holding member 272, a pin 273 fixed to the holding member and protruding to the outside of both frames 221, and a lot 274 formed on each of both frames 221 and serving as a guide for vertical traveling of the pin.

[0252] Two holding members 272 forming the separating plate 271 are arranged close to two frames 221, and serve to separate the film by hitting the separating late 271 from the top against two right-angled positions on both ends in the lateral direction (perpendicular to paper surface) of the rectangular film F during the lowering operation.

[0253] The levers 251 and 261 indicated by two-dot chain line are interlocked with the rotation of the cams arranged on the back of the frames 221. In other words, they are arranged to rotate about the shafts 252 and 260 supporting those two levers.

[0254] The aforementioned rotation is provided when the cam follower (not illustrated) arranged on the side of the cams of levers 251 and 261 rotates in conformity to the rotation of these cams, with the result that tips 253 and 262 of these two levers are rocked in the vertical direction.

[0255] In the case of the lever 251, when the lower side of the pin 225 arranged on the bracket 223 is engaged with the tip 253, the film holding means 222 is moved in the vertical direction as the lever 251 is rocked.

[0256] Since the tip 253 of the film holding means 222 is separated from the pin 225 at the position in contact with the illustrated surface of film F, the film holding means is kept in contact with the film F on the topmost position under its own weight.

[0257] For the lever 261, the U-shaped tip 262 is engaged in such a manner as to cover the pin 273 on the holding member 272, and the tip 262 moves the separating means 270 in the vertical direction in conformity to the rocking of lever 261.

[0258] The following describes the operation of the film supply apparatus 2. The film holding means 222 for sucking and feeding film F and the separating means for separating each sheet of sucked film are lowered in the arrow-marked direction from the upper initial position at a certain height in conformity to the rocking of the levers 251 and 261.

[0259] The film holding means 222 comprising a rubber-made sucking cup 224 on the lowest position (the separating means 270 is located slightly away from the film surface) is made to contact the film on the topmost position out of the film sheets stacked in the containers 20A and 20B of the tray 8 under its own weight. (This step is also applicable to the case of film having sprung out onto the side end 8a.)

[0260] With the aforementioned state of contact maintained, the entire pickup mechanism 220 is moved about 15 mm opposite to the film F feed direction by the traveling mechanism based on cam rotation (not illustrated), whereby the one end (back end) of film F on the topmost position is brought in contact with the lateral side wall 242 rising from the bottom plate 241 or side wall 246 rising from bottom plate 245.

[0261] Then levers 251 and 261 are turned in conformity to the rotation of the drive shaft 25A, and the film holding means 22 and separating plate 271 are risen to separate the suction cup 224 from film F.

[0262] The distortion of film F in a corrugated form or other defects caused by traveling in the reverse direction as a result of the aforementioned separation are corrected to get back to the original state and to obtain a plane surface, thereby lining up the film tip in a correct position.

[0263] After the above step, the film holding means 222 is lowered again and the film F is vacuum-sucked and fed upward. In this case, the rise of the separating means 270 is made to start later than that of the film holding means 222 (with a difference of 20 to 30 mm in height), and the film on the lower surface of the separating plate 271 is curved, thereby separating the film sheets being fed in close contact with film F on the topmost position.

[0264] When the film holding means 222 and separating means 270 have been moved back to the original height, the entire pickup mechanism 220 is moved again in the direction marked by a left arrow by a traveling mechanism, and film is supplied to the position below the feed roller R1 (See Fig. (b)) as an example of feed means. Then the roller R1 having moved to a lower position not affecting the locus of film F is moved in the arrow-marked direction by the force of a spring (not illustrated) to return to the position indicated by a two-dot chain line. When roller R1 has gripped the film F, the vacuum suction of the suction cup 224 is released.

[0265] Then the film F is fed to the next step through the feed roller R1 turned by the drive force of a motor (not illustrated) and a guide plate G.

[0266] For the locus of the movement of the film holding means 222 or the like after the aforementioned lowering operation performed again, it is also possible to move the film holding means in the lateral direction during the upward movement thereof and to feed the tip of the film F to the lower side of the feed roller R1. The present embodiment provides such flexibility in movement.

[0267] The cyclic operation as described above is repeated. The following describes how to feed film:

[0268] The film holding means 222 including the suction cup 224 for sucking and feeding the film F is dangled with respect to the surface of the film stored in the container 20A or 20B and is allowed to contact the film F on the topmost position. Under this condition, the film holding means is moved opposite to the direction where the film is fed, whereby the rear end of the film on the topmost position can be made to contact the side wall 242 or 246 (on the left of the pair of rollers 81 and 82) rising from the bottom plate of the container 20A and 20B.

[0269] In the next step, the film holding means 222 is separated from the film F of the topmost position, and is moved back by the amount of the previous movement. Then it is brought in contact with film, and then the film F on the topmost position is sucked by suction control. The film holding means is moved upward vertical to the surface of film so that film is gripped by the feed roller R1, whereby film is supplied, according to this film supply method.

[0270] As previously noted, to store stacked sheets of film F, an easy-to-deform cardboard made container 20 has been replaced by a container 20A or 20B made of polyethylene terephthalate. This has succeeded in reinforcing the side wall to provide an improved strong container that is immune to deformation due to the contact of film, as differentiated from a prior art cardboard-made container 20.

[0271] The suction cup 224 is allowed to contact the surface of film F having sprung out onto the side end 8b under its own weight, and the cup is moved opposite to the film feed direction horizontally. Even in this case, it contacts the side wall of the container without the quality being affected, with the result that the tips of film F are lined up n correct position, and film suction is position is fixed.

[0272] Thus, the suction of film F by the film holding means 222 is ensured, and the position for supplying film F to the f4eed roller R1 is fixed so that the delivery of film F to the feed roller R1 is ensured, resulting in a substantial reduction in the number of film feed errors.

[0273] The present invention provides a film supply apparatus and a film supply method capable of returning the sheet film sprung out onto the side end of the tray without quality being affected. Since the present invention uses a PET-made container immune to deformation due to the contact force of sheet film during its return into the container, it provides a film supply apparatus and film supply method. The following describes the configuration that facilitates the assembling work and maintenance work:

[0274] FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram (front view) representing means (a member) as a constituent of a film supply unit in a separate form. Reference numerals already described will not be explained below to avoid duplication.

[0275] The film supply unit 2 according to the present invention comprises three units; an upper enclosure unit 300, a lower enclosure unit 370 constituting an outer frame of the film supply unit and a film loading unit 330 incorporated in the lower enclosure unit 370. The upper enclosure unit 300 and film loading unit 330 are removably (removable from the front side of the apparatus proper) mounted on the lower enclosure unit 370 fastened to the frame of the main unit by a screw.

[0276] The upper enclosure unit 300 comprises a top plate 307 with a hole 309 formed thereon, the aforementioned open/close mechanism 310 fixed on the top plate 307 by a screw, and the aforementioned pickup mechanism 320. The open/close mechanism 310 is fastened to the gears 211 and rotary shaft 315 connected to the motor output shaft (not illustrated), and comprises a gear 313 meshing with the gear 311, a support arm fixed on the lower end of the rotary shaft 315, and an open/close member 303 mounted on the tip thereof.

[0277] The pickup mechanism comprises a film holding means 322 connected to a vacuum pump (not illustrated), first control means 324 for controlling the vertical movement of the film holding means 322, second control means 226 for controlling vertical movement of the separating pawl performed synchronously with the film holding means 322, and a cam mechanism (not illustrated) for mechanical control of the drive of a pair of feed rollers R1 and first and second guide means.

[0278] The lower enclosure unit 320 is configured in a box form without a top plate and front surface, and comprises on its top a screw hole 371 meshing with a screw inserted through the holes 209 drilled on both sides of the top plate 307, and a guide rail 373 for holding the loading unit 330 movably and removably.

[0279] Numeral 275 denotes a hole for screwing the lower enclosure unit to the locking portion of the apparatus proper.

[0280] The weight of unit 1 is reduced by unitizing the film supply unit 2 as described above, and the workability in assembling and maintenance is improved by the upper enclosure and film loading unit removably mounted on the enclosure unit.

[0281] In the assembling work, for example, the enclosure unit 370 is screwed to the fixing portion of the apparatus proper; then the lower surface of the top plate of the upper enclosure unit 300 is placed on the top surface of the lower enclosure unit, and is pushed inside in such a way that the screw is engaged with the screw hole 371 to fasten two units together into one piece.

[0282] After that, the film loading unit 330 is mounted through a guide rail 373, thereby completing the assembling of the film supply unit 2.

[0283] For example, if a problem has occurred to the operation of the pickup mechanism 320, the screw is removed from the screw hole 327, the upper enclosure unit 300 is slid forward and the screw (not illustrated) fastening the top plate 207 is removed. Then the pickup mechanism 320 can be taken out as a single body, whereby repair and adjustment are facilitated.

[0284] FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view for easier understanding of a film supply unit.

[0285] To remove the barrier bag, barrier bag removing means is arranged in the tray, and a gear is provided on the shaft of the barrier removing means extending outside the tray. Arrangement is made in such a way that the drive gear mounted on the side of the apparatus proper is meshed with the aforementioned gear, with the tray pushed into a predetermined position of the apparatus proper. After they have meshed with each other, the drive gear is driven by the motor to wind the barrier bag on the shaft, for example. Such an arrangement is configured wherever appropriate.

[0286] Unitized configuration ensures easy handling, hence, an improved workability in assembling and maintenance. As described above, the following configuration has been adopted to ensure easy operation and maintenance:

[0287] An image recording apparatus for recording X-ray image on sheet film comprises a lower enclosure unit constituting the outer frame of a sheet film supply unit, a sheet film loading unit and an upper enclosure unit; and further comprises the aforementioned sheet film loading unit and upper enclosure unit removably mounted on the aforementioned lower enclosure unit.

[0288] An image recording apparatus for recording X-ray image on sheet film comprises a lower enclosure unit constituting the outer frame of a sheet film supply unit, a sheet film loading unit and an upper enclosure unit; and further comprises the aforementioned sheet film loading unit and upper enclosure unit mounted on the aforementioned lower enclosure unit in such a way that they can be removed in one and the same direction.

[0289] The aforementioned upper enclosure unit integrally comprises a film pickup mechanism and an open/close mechanism for opening or closing the cover member provided on the sheet film loading unit.

[0290] An image recording apparatus for recording X-ray image on sheet film comprises a lower enclosure unit constituting the outer frame of a sheet film supply unit and an upper enclosure unit removably mounted on the lower enclosure unit; and further comprises a film pickup mechanism removably on the aforementioned upper enclosure unit.

Claims

1. A photosensitive sheet film package, comprising:

a container including a floor plate having at least four sides, and side walls, wherein each of the four sides of the floor plate is connected to at least one of the side walls; and wherein the top of the space surrounded by the side walls is opened;

a stack of photosensitive sheet films in said container; and

a light-shielding bag in which the stack of photosensitive sheet films and the container are packaged light-tightly.

2. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 1, wherein the floor plate is substantially rectangle; and wherein the side walls are substantially arranged to line symmetry to the center line of transverse direction of the rectangle of the floor plate and to the center line of the length direction of the rectangle of the floor plate.

3. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 2, wherein said at least four side walls are four side walls connected to the four sides of the floor plate and both ends of each of the four side walls are cut out at each of the four corners so as to form an opening at each of the four corners.

4. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 2, wherein both end faces of each of the four side walls are slanted so that an upper opening section of the opening at each of the four corners is made larger than a lower opening section of the opening.

5. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 2, wherein said at least four side walls are four L-shaped corner walls provided at each of the four corners so that an opening is provided on a middle section of each of the four sides between two of the four L-shaped corner walls.

6. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 2, wherein said at least four side walls comprises a pair of small-sized side walls which are connected separately to the same one side of the four sides of the floor plate.

7. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 1, wherein the floor plate is provided with a through hole.

8. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 1, wherein the container is made of a resin material.

9. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 1, wherein the resin is one of polyethylene terephthalate and high-density polystyrene.

10. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 1, wherein the container has rigidity.

11. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 1, wherein an inside pressure of the light-shielding bag is reduced to be lower than atmospheric pressure.

12. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 11, wherein the reduced inside pressure of the light-shielding bag is −60 to −70 kilo-pascal.

13. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 1, wherein a bar code showing the characteristic of the photosensitive sheet film is provided on the bottom side of the floor plate.

14. A photosensitive sheet film package, comprising

a rigid container including a floor plate and at least one side wall,

a stack of photosensitive sheet films on the floor plate; and

a light-shielding bag in which the stack of photosensitive sheet films and the container are packaged light-tightly,

wherein pressure of inside of the light-shielding bag is lower than atmospheric pressure.

15. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 14, wherein the container is made of a resin material.

16. The photosensitive sheet film package of claim 14, wherein the reduced inside pressure of the light-shielding bag is −60 to −70 kilo-pascal.

17. An apparatus to processing photosensitive sheet films packaged in a photosensitive sheet film package which comprises

a rigid container including a floor plate and at least one side wall,

a stack of photosensitive sheet films on the floor plate; and

a light-shielding bag in which the stack of photosensitive sheet films and the container are packaged light-tightly,

the apparatus comprising

a main body in which inside is light-shielded;

a tray shiftable between a first position at outside of the main body and a second position at inside of the main body, wherein the photosensitive sheet film package which is loaded on the tray at the first position is shiftable together with the tray to the second position;

a pull-out device to pull out the light-shielding bag from the photosensitive sheet film package from the direction of the side wall side of the rigid container; and

a film pull-out device to pull out a sheet film one by one from the tray at the second position.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the pull-out device has a pull-out shaft to pull out the light-shielding bag, the apparatus comprises a driving device to drive the pull-out device and the driving device engages with both sides of the pull-out shaft.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the pull-out shaft is incorporated in the tray, a pinion gear is provided each of the both ends of the pull-out shaft and the pinion engages with a rack so that when the tray is shifted from the first position to the second position, the pinions rotate on the racks with the shifting movement of the tray and the pull-out shaft is rotated with the rotation of the pinion.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein one end of the light-shielding bag is hooked on the pull-out shaft and is wound around the pull-out shaft with the rotation of the pull-out shaft so that the light-shielding bag is pulled out from the photosensitive sheet film package.

21. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the tray comprises a cover member movable with the shift movement of the tray in such a way that when the tray is located at the first position, the cover member covers the top of the tray light-tightly, and when the tray is shifted to the second position, the cover member opens the top of the tray.

22. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the film holding device comprises a pick-up member to pick up a sheet film with vacuum, and wherein the film holding device brings the pick-up member in contact with an uppermost sheet film, moves the pick-up member so as to bring the uppermost sheet film in contact with the side wall of the container, lifts up the pick-up member together with the container uppermost, and transfers the uppermost sheet film to a conveying device.

23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein after the film holding device brings the uppermost sheet film in contact with the side wall of the container, the film holding device releases the uppermost sheet film from the pick-up member, thereafter the film holding device picks up again the uppermost sheet film with the pick-up member.