Abstract: A method and apparatus for sequencing film image presentations. In the method, a film unit is first provided. The film unit has a digital memory store and a plurality of image frames. An index print is provided. The index print has an array of imagettes corresponding to the image frames of the film unit. The index print is then aligned with an array of switches, such that at least one switch is in registry with each imagette. The switches are then allocated to an array of triggers. The triggers each have a uniquely associated imagette. The triggers each include at least one switch in registry with the imagette. The array of triggers has at least one trigger associated with each of imagette. A plurality of the switches are then actuated in a non-predetermined sequence to define a sequence of imagettes associated with respective triggers. A sequence of image frames corresponding to the sequence of imagettes is recorded in the digital memory store.

Abstract: The microfilm storage and retrieval (MegaSAR-420) system of the present invention puts microfilm images on line in a document imaging system. A MegaSAR-420 could be connected to a PC LAN base document imaging system with specialized software. A remote user then has the ability to retrieve images of the stored microfilm. The MegaSAR-420 doubles the capacity of devices in the prior art, specifically including at least twenty-eight spoked hub units and using cartridges having greater storage capacity.

Abstract: A search apparatus includes a device for transporting a long recording medium and positioning a desired image on the recording medium in a predetermined position, and a device for moving a carrier, supporting the recording medium, in the width direction thereof. The apparatus is provided with a detection device for detecting the reference position of the carrier, and when the carrier is moved, the moving distance of the carrier is measured without failure after the reference position has been detected. Movement of the carrier is controlled on the basis of the measurement value.

Abstract: A control method of a microfilm image reader is provided for reducing the amount of image data to be transferred from a scanner to a host computer, making the transfer time short and hence lengthening the free time of a bus, reducing the storage capacity needed for storing the image data, and simplifying the operation procedure by omitting the process of eliminating the black frame portion when printed out. The host computer supplies the scanner with a window parameter containing a range of reading area, and the scanner detects only an image area from all the reading area to transfer image data of the detected image area to the host computer together with attribute information containing the size of the image area. The attribute information may be managed by a header system, and data on a print position of the target image may be contained in the attribute information.

Abstract: When a microfiche is automatically retrieved by a microfiche retrieval device, and the data of a target frame is input from the keyboard, the microfiche is conveyed to automatically retrieve the frame at the position relevant to the input data, and the largest frame is projected on a reader screen. The positional data for retrieving frames corresponding to the frame addresses other than that of the target frame and the fiche-mode data necessary for retrieving and outputting the imaged frames is stored in memory prior to retrieval of a frame. The stored data is read out so that the correct frame can be retrieved. Even if frames are not positionally aligned with the feeding direction of a particular microfiche or even if the reference frame or the maximum address frame is not exposed on a microfiche, frames can automatically be positioned at a high speed simply by designating a plurality arbitrary frames which are actually exposed with images.

Abstract: An image projecting apparatus is disclosed which is provided with a film carrier part for retaining a microfilm, a screen for allowing an image recorded on the film to be projected thereon, and an optical image rotating mechanism disposed in a projected light path extending from a light source to the screen and adapted to rotate the image recorded on the film and consequently allow the image to be projected in a desired posture on the screen. The operator, even when the image on the film is projected in a rotated state, is enabled to move the film in a prescribed direction in accordance with the angle of the rotation of the image produced by the optical image rotating mechanism by keeping an eye on the image projected on the screen and, at the same time, manipulating a key corresponding to the direction in which the image is desired to be observed or to the direction identical to the direction in which the image is desired to be moved.

Abstract: An information retrieval apparatus used in a microfilm reader, a reader/printer, or the like includes a first illuminator for illuminating information and a mark recorded on an information recording medium, a second illuminator for illuminating the mark, and a detector for detecting the mark illuminated by the second illuminator. The second illuminator includes a solid-state light-emitting element for emitting monochromatic radiation having a wavelength of visible light. A designator designates an optimal position of the detector on the basis of a position of the mark projected on a screen is arranged.

Abstract: A film retrieving apparatus for retrieving a desired frame in a film has an optical device for projecting images recorded in the frames of the film, a moving device for moving the film along a plane orthogonal to the optical path of the optical device, image detecting device for putting out a signal when it detects that no image is present in a frame, a control device for stopping the film when each frame of the film has been placed in the optical path of the optical device and for controlling the moving device so as to move the film in a set time after the stoppage of the film, and an inhibition device for inhibiting a frame in which no image is present from stopping in the optical path for the set time by the signal put out from the detecting device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for electronically mapping an updatable microfiche includes a microprocessor-based analyzer programmed to control and evaluate optical scanning of the imaging frame areas arranged in generally parallel rows and columns. Optical photosensors are used to detect the presence of a frame mark within an expected region of an imaged area. An electronic data mask retrievably stored in a mask table memory array is used to screen the output data from the sensors. The mask table is derived from relative sensor position data collected during a scanning operation on a calibrated microfiche. A look-up table memory array is used to store the results of an evaluation scan by storing which frames are imaged and which are available for imaging.

Abstract: An information projecting apparatus for selecting one of a plurality of cartridge each containing an information recording medium therein and projecting the information of the recording medium in the selected cartridge has cartride storing device for storing the plurality of cartridges therein, cartridge conveying device for conveying the cartridge selected from the cartridge storing device to a first position or a second position, feeding device for feeding to a projecting portion the recording medium of the cartridge placed at the first position or the second position, and optical device for projecting the information of the recording medium placed at the projecting portion.

Abstract: A microfiche reading apparatus for retrieving frame images recorded on a microfiche. This apparatus is automatically initialized in accordance with format information recorded in a bar code in a marginal section of the microfiche outside an image recording area. The apparatus comprises a movable support for the microfiche, a sensor for reading the bar code, and a control system for controlling movement of the support in response to the format information.

Abstract: An image projection apparatus detects whether or not a film sheet such as a microfiche is clamped between a pair of transparent members upon energization of the apparatus, performs index frame projection when the film sheet is clamped therebetween, and performs ejection when the film sheet is not clamped therebetween, thereby preventing damage to the film sheet and the jam state.

Abstract: In a microfilm retrieval device, the frame which is located at the position corresponding to the frame address is automatically retrieved to project the object frame on the screen of the reader. In such a retrieval device, it is necessary to be able to appropriately and precisely position the object frame regardless of the type and size of the frame pitch on the microfilm. Precise positioning of the object frame is accomplished by designating two arbitrary frames of different addresses and calculating the reference frame pitch between them.

Abstract: A microprocessor-controlled microfiche viewer which is adaptable for displaying microfiche having any format. The viewer calls up selected microfiche images in either a sequential mode or a random mode. In the sequential mode a carrier table follows a default sequence, and is cued by a keyboard control, by a dual-tone audio cueing signal that is received over a telephone line or from a tape player, or by a digital signal from an RS-232 port. In the random mode, particular images are selected by moving the carrier table in desired directions with directional keys, or by providing the coordinates of an image to the microprocessor. Image coordinates are entered manually at the keyboard, by dual-tone audio signals from a telephone line or a tape player, or by data from the RS-232 port.

Abstract: Roll film document image storage and retrieval apparatus comprising a film transport having a supply reel and a takeup reel with a roll of film carried by the reels, the film having images thereon. A motor drive is provided for driving the film between the supply and takeup reels in forward and reverse directions. An optical image sensor is provided which is disposed adjacent the film between the supply and takeup reels. An image locater is provided for causing relative movement between the optical image sensing means and the film so that a specific image carrier by the film can be viewed. The image sensor senses a plurality of images simultaneously and provides an analog output. A processor is provided for processing the analog output to provide a digital output which can be utilized for providing a visual image.

Abstract: The apparatus can be an apparatus for exposure and/or image reproduction of microfiche sheet film. It comprises a cassette (24) arranged releasably in a holding arrangement (54, 56) and containing a plurality of microfiche film sheets in separate guides, an optical arrangement (14) and a transporting arrangement (16, 62, 64) for transporting individual microfiche film sheets between the cassette (24) and the optical arrangement. To protect the microfiche film sheets from dust and possibly light, it is proposed that the cassette (24) is insertable in the closed state into the holding arrangement (54, 56), and the removal opening of the guide of the microfiche film sheet to be transported to the optical arrangement (14), and an engagement zone at said sheet for the transporting arrangement (16, 62, 64), are adapted to be laid open by an opening mechanism.

Abstract: A microfiche reader is provided with pulse motors which move a microfiche card in X and Y direction so as to position a required frame image on the microfiche card in an optical projection path. Using the symbol AF for the maximum number of frames recordable on the microfiche card, the symbol AS for the maximum number of pulse signals required to move the microfiche card from the datum position to the limit position, and the symbol PF for the location number of a required frame, the address number NS of a required frame can be calculated according to the equationNS=PF.multidot.AS/AFThe number MS of pulse signals required to move the microfiche card from a present position to the required position is obtained from the difference between the address number NS of the required frame and the address number OS of the frame actually in the optical projection path. Pulse signals corresponding to the number MS are generated to control a pulse motor.

Abstract: A microfiche reader transport system permitting the automatic and selective accessing of one of a plurality of microfilm frames mounted on a microfiche card. The transport system is independently actuable in the X and Y directions via stepper motor means which are, in turn, selectively controlled via an operator keyboard and a programmable microprocessor controller responsive thereto. The transport system further has the capability of accommodating microfiche cards of various frame formats, and includes means for adaptively adjusting to different magnification ratios of the reader optics and for audibly prompting and verifying operator selections and error conditions.

Abstract: A thermoplastics data storage member carries information which can be imaged using non-coherent light and, in addition to and distinct from that information, control data which defines a two-coordinate system for the member which controls random access to the information. A reading apparatus comprises a non-laser optical system for imaging selected areas of the information and a servo-system, including a microprocessor and transducers for reading the control data, for positioning a reading head of the optical system in desired locations relative to the storage member. The invention affords cheap optical data bases readable by apparatus not requiring a laser optical system.

Abstract: The invention relates to a photogrammetric rectifying device and a method for determining the setting values for the same to perform rectification. The inventional device has at least one measuring mark non-displaceably arranged within the projection beam non-coincident to the optical axis of the projection objective. The coordinates of the measuring mark are known. By displacing a negative carrier and adjusting the magnification, while the angular elements of orientation are held at their zero positions, control points of said photograph projected on an easel are brought into coincidence with corresponding measuring marks, which are provided on the easel. The displacements of the negative carrier and the magnifications are measured. The resulting values and the known coordinates of the measuring marks are used to compute the photo coordinates of the control points. The setting values are the results of a projective transformation computation, which is based on the photo- and map-coorinates, only.

Abstract: This apparatus includes a keyboard for the search by user for successive regions of a microfiche bearing information which he needs, a microfiche reader itself having mechanically defined coordinates of the regions sought using the keyboard, and further having the capacity to project and present said regions and a control unit.It is characterized in that the control unit comprises a microprocessor (31) with which are associated a first memory (47) containing data relating to the operation of the different elements of the apparatus and a second plug-in memory (48) containing data associated with the information borne by the microfiche and defining a decision tree, the microprocessor transmitting instructions to the elements (35, 37, 39) of the apparatus to present complementary information, so that the user can continue his search within the decision tree.

Abstract: An optical film reader for projecting and enlarging micro copy information recorded in rollfiche format on rolls of photographic film or the like which provides a film transport mechanism enabling rapid manual scanning of the enclosed rollfiche strip in both directions, with instantaneous reversal of the scanning direction without backlash in the film drive. A low glare, high contrast viewing screen is mounted at 45.degree. to the vertical and placed low at the front of the unit perpendicular to the viewer's line of sight. Movable projection optics are provided for scanning of rollfiche microcopy which is wider than that projectable on a fixed sized screen at one given time at a given magnification ratio; the movable projection optics allow projection of the micro copy data or eye-readable index area of the rollfiche by means of a single scanning lever.

Abstract: A microfiche reader provided with a keyboard of the type comprising a radiation emitter such as an infrared radiation emitter, each key being associated with an emitter modulation code and the modulated signal being detected by a photoreceiver. A microcomputer serves to decode the signal delivered by the photodetector and to generate suitable electrical signals for controlling drive motors which initiate the displacements of a microfiche support plate.

Abstract: The invention relates to a parallelepipedic tray intended to accommodate slides (7) which are to be viewed. The tray mainly comprises an upper wall (1) and a lower wall (2) each of which has grooves (6). The slides can be inserted in or removed from the tray via either of two open side surfaces, and to prevent the slides from dropping out when the tray is being handled, the tray has two flaps (8 and 9). Such a tray can be used on a slides viewer which has two carriages (22 and 23) to support and guide the trays, which carriages are disposed symmetrically on either side of optical system (28).

Abstract: In an improved system for loading new microfiches, or updating previously stored microfiches, in a microfilm cassette library; a registration mode is provided whereby a keyboard operator can register keyword a and other index information for specific frames while these microimages are concurrently being projected on a viewing screen. Structures are included for receivingand holding fiches or cassettes being registered, for positioning frames for optical projection, and for reading magnetically encoded fiche identity data. Both buffer memory and file memory means are provided for storage of frame address information including cartridge identity, microfiche identity, X and Y axes coordinates, and other index data. Microcomputer means are provided for overall control of the registration of new fiches and for retrieval of same.

Abstract: A system (10) is disclosed for storing and selectively retrieving planar film records, such as microfiche (25). The microfiche are stored in a carousel assembly (12) and are retrieved from the carousel by a positioning assembly (18). The carousel assembly (12) includes several carousels (22, 24), each defined by two slot plates (26, 30; 28, 32). The slot plates have a plurality of slots (37) formed therein, and the microfiche are held by their edges in these slots. Each microfiche is stored in a known slot location in the carousel, and is retrieved through reference to this slot location. The positioning assembly (18) moves an extractor head (16) in two dimensions for retrieval and reading of the microfiche. Movement in both dimensions is entirely accomplished by binary linear actuators (FIG. 6).

Abstract: A parts management and inventory control system includes a microfiche data base of two types of microfiche cards. One type is machine readable only, while the other type card bears machine readable information and visually readable information. The microfiche cards bear digital information for machine reading. The digital information includes information to be read as output data and/or information for controlling a microfiche card transport or a scanner transport in order to accurately position microfiche cards for information retrieval. The system may interface with a central computer for parts ordering, cancellation and the like, and a printer provides a permanent business record. The system may also be employed in the field of finance in order to provide credit or bank account information with complete privacy with respect to the identification of the person whose account is being checked.

Abstract: A microfilm reader with a projection system through which individual images on a piece of microfiche can be projected through a viewing screen. The reader has a base structure on which is mounted a carriage assembly which holds the microfilm and is mounted for horizontal movement relative to the base structure. A series of magnets mounted on the carriage assembly and base structure causes the carriage assembly to be magnetically held in predetermined positions. In one embodiment the predetermined magnetically held positions are identical to the distances between the individual images on the microfiche whereby images from the microfiche can be precisely positioned on the screen without the operator viewing the image on the screen.

Abstract: A microfiche reader includes an automatic motor driven retriever mechanism and a manual retriever mechanism. The manual retriever includes a guide having a transverse slot, a lever handle having a longitudinal slot and a pivot member slideable along the slots and supporting the lever for swinging between retracted and extended positions. A film carrier carriage is moveable along orthogonally related directions and is releasably couplable to the lever when the carriage is in a retracted rest position, the lever being locked to the carriage when the carriage is displaced from its rest position. The lever is locked in an inoperative condition when retracted and with the carriage displaced from rest position. A mechanism is provided for uncoupling the motors from the carriage or the carriages are coupled to the motors by slip transmissions or a switch is provided for deenergizing the automatic retriever mechanisms when the manual lever is in an operative position.

Abstract: A film card retrieval device for use in an automatic microfilm display apparatus is provided with a switch for sensing that a film card has been retrieved. In the event the device fails to retrieve a film card, the absence of a switch output signal causes the control apparatus to repeat the card retrieval routine.

Abstract: A film supporting and positioning system includes a film holding or gripping head for engaging an edge portion of the film and supporting the same in a cantilever fashion. The gripping head may include a frictional contact gripping arrangement or a vacuum head by which the film is held along one edge thereof. The gripping head is displaceable in a plurality of orthogonal directions so that the film may be inserted into and oriented relative to the image plane of an optical recording/reproducing system. In the vicinity of this image plane, a film support bearing is provided, in order that a prescribed region of the film, in which information may be recorded may be properly irradiated by a light beam. Preferably, the film support bearing is provided by a fluid bearing platen which is thermodynamically non-throttling.

Abstract: An automatic microfilm retrieval system for retrieving contents of a dictionary or the like recorded on a microfilm and displaying them on a screen is disclosed. Said microfilm includes a retrieval cord and divided into a plurality of unit regions to be displayed on said screen at the same time and further includes a cord added to each of said unit regions and representing an index word whose contents are included in each of said unit regions. A plurality of said unit regions are assembled into a plurality of groups. To each of said groups are added cords representing first and last index words included in each of said groups. Provision is made of a subtracter which functions to compare said cords read out by a reading head with key inputs obtained by depressing keys provided on a key board and control movements of a movable stage holding said microfilm thereon, thereby retrieving said microfilm.

Abstract: An electronically controlled photographic image utilization device is arranged to transport a roll of microfilm having all images printed thereon in separate photographic areas, each area being arranged in a microfiche-type format. The photographic image utilization device has an automatic call-up feature so that any given photographic area may be selected in a first dimension and projected responsive to the push of a button, the operation of a rotary switch or both. A special bar code is printed along the edge of the film and used in conjunction with a closed loop film control system to eliminate the need for precise, clock-controlled synchronization between the film transport and the code reading. Preferably, the bar code is read by optical electronic sensors. Responsive thereto, the electronic control system accurately positions a selected photographic image, on the microfilm, within a viewing area.

Abstract: A microprocessor controlled microfilm reader/printer is arranged to transport a roll of film having all images contained thereon, in a distinctive format involving sequentially recorded photographic areas. The reader/printer has an automatic call feature up, so that any given photographic area may be selected and projected responsive to the push of a button, the operation of a rotary switch, or both. A special bar code printed along an edge of the film eliminates the need for precise control over a film transport synchronized with a code reading speed. The bar code is preferably read by an optical electronic sensor, which provides a film positioning input control signal to enable an accurate locating of a selected photographic area within a viewing area.

Abstract: A recording medium such as a microfiche bearing graphic information like a map in a reduced scale is provided in a retrieval unit including an optical projection system connected with a television type display device. The recording medium is moved with respect to the optical projection system by an X-Y moving device which is operated by an electric position signal. The electric position signal is given by a position detecting device. The position detecting device has a graphic information similar to that recorded in the recording medium and a detecting pen to point a desired spot on the graphic information and a joy stick to give the position signal to the X-Y moving device.

Abstract: A programmable, operator responsive, audiovisual teaching apparatus includes a rear screen projector for displaying visual information and an audio reproduction unit providing correlated audiovisual presentations in a sequence corresponding to a branched learning format. A microfiche storage element is provided with a plurality of informational units to be projected toward the screen, each unit including a visual portion, an encoded data portion, and an optical sound track portion. The coded data portion is projected onto a plurality of photodetectors mounted adjacent the screen and the optical sound track is projected onto a movable sound track transducer which provides the audio presentation. A plurality of manually operable switches are provided on the apparatus for selective actuation by the operator in an attempt to select a proper response to the audiovisual presentation.

Abstract: A microfiche reader stores a library file of microfiche in a cartridge which may be inserted into the reader, so that it is not necessary to manually manipulate the individual microfiche. The reader automatically extracts and feeds a selected microfiche from a cartridge and then returns it to the vacated cartridge location. A right angle rack and pinion causes the extractor mechanism to provide an automatic feed mechanism which moves over a horizontal advance, raise, drop and back path so that hooks may be removed from and then returned into notches in a microfiche carrier, without damaging them. An automatic elevator mechanism positions the cartridge so that any selected microfiche may be placed on display.

Abstract: An electronically controlled photographic image utilization device is arranged to transport a roll of microfilm having all images printed thereon in separate photographic areas, each area being arranged in a microfiche-type format. The photographic image utilization device has an automatic call-up feature so that any given photographic area may be selected and projected responsive to the push of a button, the operation of a rotary switch or both. A special bar code is printed along the edge of the film and used in conjunction with a closed loop film control system to eliminate the need for precise, clock controlled synchronization between the film transport and the code reading. Preferably, the bar code is read by optical electronic sensors. Responsive thereto, the electronic control system accurately positions a selected photographic image, on the microfilm, within a viewing area.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for viewing a preselected one of a plurality of information-bearing media, such as microfilm in fiche format, from a container housing a plurality of such media. The apparatus includes a viewing area and clamps for removably receiving the microfilm container. Selection apparatus is provided for selecting one of the media from the container and moving it to the viewing area while the container is held in position on the frame. A movable carriage is provided for moving the selection apparatus and the selected media from the container into the viewing area.

Abstract: A microfiche reader control means which permits direct keying of the number of a required microfilm frame. A keyed number is converted to values indicative of required displacement of a microfiche from an index position in order to bring the frame having the keyed number to a position for projection and viewing, and these values are supplied to drive means for moving the microfiche.

Abstract: Optical scanning apparatus for microfilms or test films has a first carriage which is movable along the X-axis of a coordinate system, a second carriage which is mounted on the first carriage and is movable along the Y-axis of the coordinate system, a magnetic coupling device which connects a portion of the margin of a film to the second carriage so that each and every bit of information on the film can be moved into register with a reference point at the upper side of a horizontal base plate, and an optical scanning system having a light source below the base plate, an annular insert mounted in the base plate and serving to transmit light upwardly through the film at the reference point of the upper side of the base plate, and a magnifying lens system or a photoelectric cell above the film in register with the insert.

Abstract: A microfiche reader permitting automatic loading and unloading of a microfiche, and rapid, automatic location of a frame on the microfiche in response to keyed input, which is converted to electrical values supplied to drive a frame location device carrying the microfiche in required directions to a requisite setting.

Abstract: A microfiche viewer is provided with means for selecting one microfiche carrier from a plurality of microfiche carriers contained within a magazine for holding the same, means for positioning such selected microfiche carrier along a first axis, means for positioning an optical-projecting means along another axis perpendicular to the first axis whereby a preselected frame of a microfiche contained within the carrier can be viewed on a screen and means for replacing the microfiche carrier into the magazine.

Abstract: Television broadcast market survey data is recorded on microfiche and displayed on a microfiche reader. The data is recorded in basic data zones each of which is reserved for a single market, such as New York, Los Angeles, Detroit or one of the hundreds of other designated market areas of the U.S.A. Each data zone is of the same size regardless of the size of the market or whether the amount of data to be stored is sufficient to fill the zone. The data is divided into several parts, such as "network program averages," "program audience averages," "time period averages," "day-part summaries" etc. A separate location is reserved within each basic data zone for each type of data, and each type of data always appears at the same location in each data zone. Each fiche is assigned a code representing a broadcast market, and is selected by operating keys on the reader device.

Abstract: The inventive cartridge includes a hollow outer shell with an open front that enables microfiche to slide into or out of the shell. Inside the shell are a plurality of shelves for holding the microfiche in a spaced parallel relationship with respect to each other. Supported on the cartridge is a detent which prevents the microfiche from falling out of the cartridge. The outside contours of the cartridge cooperate with the reader to insure a proper sequence of operations during cartridge loading or unloading.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for viewing a preselected one of a plurality of information-bearing media, such as microfilm in fiche format, from a container housing a plurality of such media. The apparatus includes a frame, with the frame having a viewing area associated therewith; first means operatively associated with the frame for moving a container housing the plurality of information-bearing media between a first and second position which includes the viewing area therebetween; and selection means for retaining a preselected one of the media in the viewing area when the container is moved from the second position back to the first position. Each medium in the container includes a trailing border portion and the length of travel of the container between its first and second positions is less than the total length of the medium such that the trailing border portion remains interleaved between remaining ones of said plurality of media when the carriage returns to its initial first position.

Abstract: A microform information storage unit for use with a microform reading apparatus is disclosed. The unit comprises a plurality of microform information storage members pivotally coupled along a common edge of a first body and a plurality of index members integrally coupled with the microform storage members in predetermined alignment with the microform members, the index members being integrally coupled along a common edge to an opposite edge of the first body whereby the index members and the microform members are adapted to be folded along the coupling edges. The index members have recorded thereon indicia for randomly retrieving information from the microform members when the indicia are aligned with reference means of the reading apparatus.

Abstract: A microform information storage unit for use with a microform reading apparatus is disclosed. The storage unit comprises an assembly of microform information storage members flexibly intercoupled along a common edge and an assembly of index members intercoupled with the microform storage members in predetermined alignment with the microform storage members. The index members are intercoupled along edges thereof in a flexible pleated array, the pleated array of index members including an edge coupling member thereof which is coupled to the microform members along the common edge. The index members have recorded thereon indicia for randomly retrieving information from the microform members when the indicia are aligned with reference means of the reading apparatus.

Abstract: A microfiche reader has a carrier which includes means for transporting a microfiche film with a rectilinear movement. The carrier has two plates of glass for receiving a microfiche between them. As the carrier moves to one extremity of its rectilinear movement, the cover glass automatically opens to enable manual access to the microfiche between the glass. At another extremity of its movement, the carrier moves one or more image lenses out of contact with the cover glass while precluding any chipping of the edge of the glass.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method for handling and reading any one of a number of film strips, each having a number of segments with each segment containing a plurality of information-containing, high-reduction image frames. The film strips are housed in a cassette which is movable with respect to a fixed reference to align a desired film strip with a reading station disposed across the optical path of an optical system. A film strip is moved out of the cassette by a force applied to one of its side edges. Control information carried by each film strip is sensed as the film strip moves out of the cassette and the sensed information is used to control the distance through which the film strip moves so that a particular segment thereof will stop at the reading station. The optical system is moved relative to the reading system so that the optical path of the optical system is selectively alignable with a particular image frame of the film strip removed from the cassette.