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  • Patent number: 6226457
    Abstract: In a method for loading a film cartridge in a one-time use camera, the film cartridge is placed in a film cartridge chamber of a camera frame assembly. An anti-backup subsystem is mounted on the camera frame assembly. The anti-backup subsystem has a first mechanical member biased into a disengaged position. A main portion of the filmstrip is then wound, in a prewind direction, from the film cartridge to a film supply chamber of the camera frame assembly. Following the winding, the first mechanical member is biased into an engaged position, in which the anti-backup system precludes winding of the filmstrip in the prewind direction. The first mechanical member can be biased by applying a label to a casing of the camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: James D. Boyd, Stephen J. Smith, Michael P. Cramer
  • Patent number: 6263159
    Abstract: A camera has a casing and a subsystem having a first mechanical element and a second mechanical element. The first mechanical element is movable relative to the casing, between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The mechanical elements are engaged. The subsystem is operative in the engaged position. The subsystem is inoperative in the disengaged position. A label is attached to the casing. The label biases the first mechanical element toward the engaged position. In a method for rendering a one-time use camera operative, a camera frame assembly and a compliant label are aligned. The camera frame assembly has the subsystem having a first and second mechanical elements and an uncovered gap. The first mechanical element is movable relative to the gap, between the engaged and disengaged positions. The mechanical elements are engaged and the subsystem is operative in the engaged position and inoperative in the disengaged position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: James D. Boyd, Stephen J. Smith, Michael P. Cramer