Abstract:
A method and processor for processing photosensitive media. The processor includes a narrow processing channel for holding a processing solution, at least one delivery opening for delivering the processing solution to the narrow processing channel, an outlet for allowing processing solution to be withdrawn from the narrow processing channel, and a recirculation system for delivering and circulating a predetermined batch amount of the processing solution through the narrow processing channel from the outlet to the at least one narrow delivery opening for processing a predetermined amount of photosensitive media passing through the narrow processing solution. The batch amount of processing solution only when media is provided in the processing channel. The processor also included an emptying system for removing the processing solution from the narrow processing channel and the recirculation system when the photosensitive media is not being processed through the narrow processing channel.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     Using low volume, high temperature solutions to rapidly process photographic film in a low or inconsistent utilization environment. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Film processing cycles have been getting shorter to accommodate the demand for “one-hour” or “while you wait” film processing services. In order to shorten process cycles, solution temperatures and agitation levels are increased. These “variant processes” generally result in film images that yield inferior results when optically printed. Digital film scanners, image processing algorithms, and digital printers are used to recover acceptable image quality. Maintaining processing solutions at higher than normal or “super heated” temperatures degrades the operating life of these solutions. In addition, higher agitation in conventional processing “rack and tank” systems increases the probability for air to be imbibed by the processing solution causing oxidation. Furthermore, these “on demand” film processing situations result in inconsistent utilization of the film processor. Typically, in large solution volume processing equipment “under utilization” causes the process solutions to degrade from lack of use. Furthermore, significant energy is required to heat and maintain the temperature of the large volume of processing solutions. For some applications such as freestanding, unattended, and kiosk type film processing applications, it is desirable to use a “batch” type process to avoid the need for daily sensitometric monitoring and control associated with replenished and seasoned type processes. It is therefore desirable to provide a film processing system that prevents solution degradation due to high temperature processing, high agitation, and under utilization, and that uses significantly less energy to maintain solution temperature. This film processing system should also provide consistent processing results without the requirement of routine sensitometric monitoring and control. It is toward these ends that the present invention is directed. 
     In accordance with the present invention, the above described needs are satisfied by a processing apparatus and method that allows working strength processing solutions to be used at higher than normal temperatures and agitation levels. The low volume of solution in the processing apparatus allows for a small portion of the total solution volume to be “heated on demand” instead of being kept at operational temperature for long periods time. After use, the processing solutions are returned to the solution storage tank, where the heated solution is rapidly heat quenched by the larger mass of the non-heated solution in the storage tank. By using working strength, batch processing solutions the need for sensitometric monitoring and control is eliminated. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a processor for processing of photosensitive media, comprising: 
     a narrow processing channel for holding a processing solution; 
     at least one delivery opening for delivering the processing solution in an impinging manner against the photosensitive media to the narrow processing channel; 
     a recirculation system for delivering and circulating a predetermined batch amount of the processing solution through the narrow processing channel from the outlet to the at least one narrow delivery opening for processing a predetermined amount of photosensitive media passing through the narrow processing channel, the recirculation system having a conduit through which a processing solution flows and having the conduit having a heat conductive thin wall section in contact with a controlled heat source for heating of the processing solution to a first predetermined temperature; and 
     an emptying system for removing the processing solution from the narrow processing channel and the recirculation system when the photosensitive media is not being processed through the narrow processing channel. 
     In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for processing a predetermined amount of photosensitive media in a processing apparatus having a narrow processing channel, at least one narrow delivery opening for delivering the processing solution in an impinging manner against the photosensitive media in the narrow processing channel, an outlet for allowing processing solution to be withdraw from the narrow processing channel, and a recirculation system for recirculating the processing solution through the narrow channel from the outlet to the at least one narrow delivery opening, the recirculation system having a conduit through which a processing solution flows and having the conduit having a heat conductive thin wall section in contact with a controlled heat source for heating of the processing solution to a first predetermined temperature comprising the steps of: 
     a. providing a predetermined batch amount of processing solution at an predetermined temperature by heating the processing solution in the conduit by the controlled heat source to the processing channel and the recirculation system; 
     b. maintains the predetermined amount of processing solution at an elevated predetermined temperature during processing of the photosensitive media; 
     c. removing the processing solution from the narrow processing channel and the recirculation system when no photosensitive media is being processed in the narrow processing channel. 
     In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for processing a predetermined amount of photosensitive media in a processing apparatus having a narrow processing channel, at least one narrow delivery opening for delivering processing solution in an impinging maker against the photosensitive media in the narrow processing channel, an outlet for allowing processing solution to be withdrawn from the narrow processing channel, and a recirculation system for recirculating a batch amount of through the narrow processing channel from the outlet to the at least one narrow delivery opening, the recirculation system having a conduit through which a processing solution flows and having the conduit having a heat conductive thin wall section in contact with a controlled heat source for heating of said processing solution to a first predetermined temperature comprising the steps of: 
     a. providing the predetermined batch amount of processing solution at an predetermined temperature by heating the processing solution in the conduit by the controlled heat source to the processing channel and the recirculation system; 
     b. maintains the predetermined amount of processing solution at an elevated predetermined temperature during processing of the photosensitive media; 
     c. cooling the predetermined amount of processing solution when no photosensitive media is being processed in the narrow processing channel. 
     These and other aspects, objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood and appreciated from a review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and appended claims, and by reference to the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     In the detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention presented below, reference is made to the accompanying drawings in which: 
     FIG. 1 is a cut away side view of a processing apparatus made in accordance with present invention; 
     FIG. 2 is a view similar to FIG. 1 illustrating a photosensitive media being transported there through; 
     FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the processing apparatus of FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the lower processing and tank section of the apparatus of FIG. 3; 
     FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the upper section that forms the upper portion of the processing channel of FIG. 3; 
     FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the upper section the and attached transport assembly; 
     FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the apparatus of FIG. 3 illustrating the batch solution management system operating in the “NORMAL OPERATION” mode; 
     FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of the apparatus shown of FIG. 3 illustrating the batch solution management system operating in the “REFRESH/FILL OPERATION” mode; 
     FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the apparatus shown of FIG. 3 illustrating the batch solution management system operating in the “DRAIN OPERATION” mode; 
     FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the apparatus of FIG. 3 illustrating the batch solution management system incorporating a solution replenisher module and effluent collection tank in the “NORMAL OPERATION” mode; 
     FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the apparatus of FIG. 3 illustrating the batch solution management system incorporating a solution replenisher module and effluent collection tank in the “REFRESH OPERATION” mode; 
     FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of the apparatus of FIG. 3 illustrating the batch solution management system incorporating a solution replenisher module and effluent collection tank in the “DRAIN OPERATION” mode; and 
     FIG. 13 is a cut away side view of a complete processing apparatus system incorporating a plurality of the processing apparatus of FIG.  3 . 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is directed to a processing apparatus and method in which a small portion of the total mass of working strength processing solution is heated on demand when imaging media is available for processing. After the imaging media is processed the solution is returned to the bulk of unheated processing solution where it is rapidly quenched and is available for use when required. The processing apparatus may be refilled with unheated solution to avoid crystals and debris forming in the apparatus from residual processing solutions. Since the processing apparatus is sealed and has a minimum of solution surface area in contact with air, unheated solution may be stored in the apparatus as well as stored in the solution storage tank. The solution in the apparatus may be re-circulated and heated without disturbing the solution in the storage tank and can be the minimum volume required to process a given size and type of imaging media. 
     Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 there is illustrated a cut away view of a processing apparatus  10  made in accordance with the present invention. The apparatus  10  includes a lower section  20  and upper section  30 , both of which housed within an external tank  40 . The tank is preferably insulated and made of a material, such as plastic, that does not conduct heat. Imaging media  42  (such as photographic film and/or paper) enters slot  50  into a narrow processing channel  60  formed between the lower section  20  and upper section  30 . In the embodiment illustrated the sections  20 ,  30  are spaced by a narrow gap G so as to provide a narrow processing channel as is discussed in greater detail herein. A processing solution  32  is introduced into the processing channel  60  through a solution impingement slot  80  (see FIGS. 1 and 4) and exits the apparatus  10  through solution overflow outlet  70 . While in the present invention there is illustrated only a single slot  80  and overflow outlet, any appropriate number may be provided. The size of the slot  80  is preferably selected so that the solution  32  will be impinged against the media  42  so as to provide fresh processing solution  32  against the emulsion layers typically provided on the media  42 . The imaging media  42  moves through channel  60  to the integrated transport/solution squeegee roller set  100  where residual solution is removed from the media  42  and the media  42  is transported to the next stage of the process (for example as shown by FIG.  13 ). 
     Imaging media  42  has an emulsion side  120  positioned toward solution impingement slot nozzle  80  and back side  125  biased against upper section  30  to establish a fixed gap having a width D between the emulsion surface  120  and the slot nozzle  80 . This is done to achieve consistent agitation and development over the length and width of the imaging media. 
     Apparatus  10  includes transport/solution squeegee assembly  100  which comprises a pair of contacting roller  102 ,  104  with drive gear  130  (as can best be seen by reference to FIG.  3 ). Processing solution is removed from the imaging media  42  and is collected in a collection section  106  provided external tank  40 . This excess may be recirculated as later discussed or simply discarded. 
     FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the lower processing section  20  and tank section  40  with the upper section  30  has been removed. Solution impingement slot nozzle  80  is visible at the center of lower section  20  and solution overflow outlet  70  can be seen on the side wall  108  of external tank  40 . The system is shown with one slot nozzle  80  but multiple slot nozzles may be used as previously discussed. Conduits  116  in external tank  40  (see FIGS. 1-12) channel the overflow solution out of the process apparatus  10 . External tank  40  is used to collect process solution that flows out of the processing channel  60 . The processing channel  60  is formed when lower processor section  20  is fitted to upper processor section  30  (see FIG. 5) with support projection  25  fitted to mating section  35  (see FIG.  5 ). The combination of support projection  25  and mating section  35  establishes a precise gap G between upper section  30  and lower section  20 . The gap G is designed so as to provide a relatively narrow processing channel  60  through which the media passes. Typically the gap G is no greater than about 0.25 inch, preferably no greater than about 0.125 inches. Applicants have found that a gap G of about 0.1 inches is best for a typical photographic paper. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,319,410; 5,353,083; 5,389,994; 5,270,762; 5,355,190; 5,398,094; 5,432,481; 5,418,592 illustrate examples of processors having a narrow processing channel which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. Preferably, the gap G is selected so as to minimize the amount of solution  32  available for processing of the media  42 . Thus the gap G is selected so as to be sufficiently large so as to allow the media  42  to easily pass through the channel  60 , but not too large that a large amount of processing solution is needed for filling of the channel. In the embodiment illustrated the amount of solution that is to be circulated during processing is preferably equal to or slightly more than necessary for developing of a predetermined amount of media to be processed in a batch. Preferably an amount of processing solution equal to or greater than about 125% of the processing solution need for processing of the batch of media to be processed and most preferably between 150% to 200%. 
     FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of upper processing section  30  illustrating the curved shape of the process apparatus which forms the upper surface of processing channel  60 . 
     FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of upper processing section  30  with transport/solution squeegee roller set  100  and drive gear  130 . 
     FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of process apparatus  10  and batch solution management system  140  for introducing and recirculating processing solution  32  a predetermined amount of processing solution  32  through the processing channel  60  when media is to be processed in channel  60 . FIG. 7 illustrates the solution management system  140  in the “NORMAL OPERATION” mode for processing of media in the processing channel  60 . The batch solution management system  140  includes appropriate conduits  142  and the following components solenoid controlled valves  170 ,  175 ,  180 , and  185 , pump  150 , an on demand heater  160  and solution storage tank  210 . The conduits and various other components of system  140  are preferably made of a material, such as plastic, that does not conduct heat. Within solution storage tank  210  a filter  200  is provided which filters solution being withdrawn from the storage tank  210 , and flapper valve  190  is provided which opens when solution flows back into the tank  210  via gravity. Pressure relief valve  205  allows any build up of gas, due to solution flow in and out of storage tank  210  to be automatically vented. Unheated, working strength, processing solution  32  is stored in solution storage tank  210 . The processing apparatus  10  has been filled with processing solution  32  by drain through pump  150  through on-demand heater  160 . On-demand heater  160  is of the type that is used to heat liquids rapidly when the heated liquid is needed, as opposed to the type that maintains a volume of liquid at a required temperature for long periods of time. This is accomplished by passing liquid through a length of thin walled heat conducting tubing in contact with a controlled heat source. The processing solution is extracted from storage tank  210  through filter  200  and solenoid controlled valve  170  flapper valve  190  is automatically closed by the suction generated by pump  150 . The solenoid controlled valves  170 ,  175 ,  180 , and  185  are individually and automatic set opened or closed by control computer  250  depending on the desired mode of operation. Processing solution  32  enters processing apparatus  10  via impingement slot nozzle  80 , via solution delivery system  140 . Supply  170  and return  175  solenoid controlled solution valves are closed. Crossover solution control valve  180  is opened and processing apparatus solution drain solenoid controlled solution valve  185  is closed. At this point the system is prepared for “NORMAL OPERATION” mode. The process apparatus  10  and solution management system  140  are filled with processing solution which is being heated to a set temperature by on demand heater  160  and re-circulated by pump  150 . Heated process solution contacts the film emulsion (not shown) via slot nozzle  80  and exits the apparatus through overflow  70 . When storage solution return solenoid controlled valve  175  is closed this prevent solution from being returned to the storage tank  210  and when storage solution crossover solenoid controlled solution valve  180  is opened and storage solution supply solenoid controlled solution valve  170  is closed. This allows the solution to bypass the solution storage tank  210  and to be re-circulated by pump  150  and through on demand heater  160 , through slot nozzle  80 , back into processing apparatus  10 . Computer  250  in addition for controlling the valves is also used for overall control, operation and monitoring the apparatus including the pump, heater, sensors, display lights, user interface, etc associated with the apparatus  10 . 
     FIG. 8 is a cut away side view illustration of a process apparatus and batch solution management system  140  in the “REFRESH/FILL OPERATION” mode. This mode is used to fill or exchange the working strength processing solution in process apparatus  10 . Supply  170  and return  175  solenoid controlled solution valves are opened, crossover solution control valve  180  is closed, and apparatus solution drain solenoid controlled solution valve  185  is closed. Flapper valve  190  is automatically closed by the suction caused by pump  150  forcing process solution to flow through filter  200 . Filter  200  may be of any well known type and construction that filters out physical debris and/or may be used to treat the working strength processing solution with ion exchange resins or activated charcoal. The solution proceeds through on-demand heater  160  through solution delivery system  140 . The on-demand heater  160  may or may not be used to heat the solution at this time depending on the amount of solution or time used to refresh processing apparatus  10  so as not to heat the mass of solution in the storage tank. The solution will be heated, regardless, during the “Normal Operation” cycle. The solution enters the process apparatus  10  via impingement slot nozzle  80 , filling processing apparatus channel  60 , and exits through overflow  70 . Once apparatus  10  has been “REFRESHED or FILLED” it can then remain idle, waiting for the next section of imaging media to process. It is switched over to “NORMAL OPERATION” when solenoid controlled valves supply  170  and return  175  are closed and crossover  180  is opened. 
     FIG. 9 is a cut away side view illustration of a process apparatus  10  and batch solution management system  140  in the “DRAIN OPERATION” mode. This mode is used to remove the process solution from the processing apparatus  10 . Supply  170  and return  175  solenoid controlled solution valves are opened, crossover solution control valve  180  is closed, and apparatus solution drain solenoid controlled solution valve  185  is opened. The lack of pressure from pump  150  causes flapper valve  190  to open allowing for processing solution to drain from apparatus  10  through impingement slot nozzle  80 , through pump  150  which has been turned off. The tank  210  is position such that the solutions drain back into storage tank  210  via gravity. Valve  205  allows excess air to escape tank  210  as it is being filled with solution  32 . 
     In order to better understand the present invention a description of its operation will be discussed. Initially the apparatus  10  is in the non operational state as illustrated by FIG.  9 . Typically a predetermined amount of media, for example a roll of photographic film, is designated for passing through the apparatus  10 . Prior to the media  42  entering the processing channel, the processing channel  60  and management system  140  is fill with processing solution obtained from tank  210  as show and discussed with respect to FIG.  8 . That is valves  170  and  175  are opened, valves  180  and  185  are closed, and pump  150  is activated by computer  172  so as to fill the channel  60  and system  140 . Once filled, valves  170  and  175  are closed and valve  180  is opened. This allows a batch amount of processing solution to be recirculated through the channel and system  140  as shown by FIG.  7 . Heater  160  is activated so as to heat the circulating batch of processing solution  32 . Since the amount of processing solution  32  in channel and system is small, the batch processing solution can be quickly heated to an elevated temperature higher than normally expected. For example in the present invention the batch amount of processing solution  32  is heated to a temperature in the range of 115° F. to 130° F. The media is transported through channel  60  where the processing solution  32  acts on the media  42 . In the embodiment illustrated the media  42  is roll of photographic film having 36 exposures and the batch amount of processing solution provided in channel  60  and system  140  is about 30 ml and the tank  210  is designed to hold about 3 liters of processing solution. This provides a ratio of solution in the tank  210  to the batch of processing solution of about 100 to one, however this ratio may vary depending of the temperature difference between the batch of solution and the solution in the tank  210 , the designed rate of use of the processing solution, and the cooling rate of the tank. Generally the ratio of the processing solution in the tank  210  to the batch of processing solution is preferably greater than about 50 to one. Once the media  42  has passed through channel  60 , the batch solution is drained from channel  60  and system  140  as illustrated by FIG.  9 . In particular, valves  170 ,  175 , and  185  are opened and pump  150  is turned off. This allows the batch of processing solution to drain into tank  210  where it mixes with solution  32  contained therein. A sufficient amount of processing solution remains in tank  210  during processing of the media such that when the batch of solution returns to tank  210 , the working batch will be quenched to about ambient temperature (about 72°) or what ever temperature the solution in tank  210  is maintained. This minimizes the amount of time in which the batch solution is maintained at the elevated temperature. This avoids or minimizes any possible degradation of the processing solution  32  being at the elevated temperature. This process is repeated each time batch of media that is introduced into apparatus  10  processing. The batch of processing solution is provided sufficient so that the amount of media passing through channel  60  will be fully developed. The computer  250  keeps track of the amount media that is processed by the total volume of processing solution available from tank  210 . When it is determined that the quantity of processing solution  32  has been chemically exhausted, the computer will provide the appropriated notice to the operator that the solution  32  needs replacement and/or replenishment. 
     FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of modified processing apparatus  10  and solution management system  240  incorporating a working solution batch replenisher module  225  and effluent collection tank  220  in the “NORMAL OPERATION” mode. Management system  240  is similar to system  140  like numerals representing like parts and operation. A replenisher storage tank  240  and solution metering pump  230  have been for allowing a precise amount of replenishment solution  242  to the solution storage tank  210  based on the amount of imaging media  42  that has been processed in channel  60 . Replenisher  242  can be added to the solution storage tank  210  at any convenient point before, after, or during “Normal Operation”. The processing apparatus  10  has been filled with processing solution by drain through pump  150  through on-demand heater  160 . The processing solution  32  is extracted from storage tank  210  through solenoid controlled valve  170 . Processing solution  32  enters processing apparatus  10  via impingement slot nozzle  80 , via solution delivery system  140 . Supply  170  and return  175  solenoid controlled solution valves are closed. Crossover solution control valve  180  is opened and processing apparatus solution drain solenoid controlled solution valve  185  is closed. Heated process solution contacts the emulsion (not shown) on media  42  and exits the apparatus through overflow  70 . Storage solution return solenoid controlled valve  175  is closed preventing the solution from being returned to the storage tank  210  and storage solution crossover solenoid controlled solution valve  180  is opened and storage solution supply solenoid controlled solution valve  170  is closed. This allows the solution to bypass the solution storage tank  210  and to be re-circulated by pump  150  and through on demand heater  160 , through slot nozzle  80 , back into processing apparatus  10 . Solenoid controlled solution valve  260  is closed preventing re-circulating solution from entering the effluent storage tank  220 . 
     After the imaging media has been processed, the process apparatus  10  can be either drained into effluent tank  220  through valve  260  or returned to the solution storage tank  210 . 
     It is well know in the art to use film speed, format, and length, provided by the various film information system such as DFX coding, bar-coding, or magnetics on film (MOF), to inform the processor and scanner of the media type and format to be processed and scanned. Also it is known to use electronic and digital image information available from the existing electronic scanning sensing means to analyze the color and density of the images on the imaging media to determine the level of use of the processing solution. Replenisher  240  is used to either maintain process activity as the batch is used to extend the total amount of imaging media that can be processed by a batch of solution. Unlike typical “replenished systems” where “seasoned” solutions are continually replenished and monitored for extended periods of time, the entire batch is replaced with a fresh batch of solution once the maximum amount of image media has been processed. Sensitometric data to determine the amount of process solution usage can be obtained via analysis of the image data obtained from the digital scanner  380  (see FIG.  13 ). Color, density, and/or physical measurements can be used to obtain sensitometric solution usage data. 
     FIG. 11 is a cut away side view illustration of a processing apparatus  10  and solution management system  240  incorporating a solution replenisher module  225  and effluent collection tank  220  in the “REFRESH OPERATION” mode. This mode is used to fill or exchange the working strength processing solution in process apparatus  10 . Supply  170  and return  175  solenoid controlled solution valves are opened, crossover solution control valve  180  is closed, and apparatus solution drain solenoid controlled solution valve  185  and  260  are closed. At this point replenisher module  225  may be activated to deliver a metered amount of replenisher solution via solution metering pump  230  to solution storage tank  210 . When complete, pump  150  activates and flapper valve  190  is automatically closed by the suction produced by pump  150  forcing the process solution to pass through filter  200 . The solution proceeds through on-demand heater  160  through solution delivery system  140 . The on-demand heater  160  may or may not be used to heat the solution at this time depending on the amount of solution or time used to refresh processing apparatus  10  so as not to heat the mass of solution in the storage tank. The solution will be heated, regardless, during the “Normal Operation” cycle. The solution enters the process apparatus  10  via impingement slot nozzle  80 , filling processing apparatus channel  60 , and exits through overflow  70 . Several re-circulation cycles may be repeated in order insure that the working strength solution and replenisher are adequately mixed. Once apparatus  10  has been “REFRESHED or FILLED” it can then remain idle, waiting for the next section of imaging media to process. It is switched over to “NORMAL OPERATION” solenoid controlled valves supply  170  and return  175  are closed and crossover  180  is opened. 
     FIG. 12 a cut away side view of a process apparatus and solution management system incorporating a solution replenisher module and effluent collection tank in the “DRAIN OPERATION” mode. This mode is used to remove the process solution from the process apparatus. Supply  170  and return  175  solenoid controlled solution valves are closed, crossover solution control valve  180  is opened, and apparatus solution drain solenoid controlled solution valve  185  is opened. The lack of pressure from pump  150  process solution  32  to drain from apparatus  10  through impingement slot nozzle  80 , through pump  150  which has been turned off. The effluent tank solution return solenoid controlled solution valve  260  is opened to allow solution to drain back into effluent tank  220  via gravity. 
     The operation of the modified apparatus and system  240  operates much in the same manner as the embodiment of FIGS. 7-10 except that the apparatus can be operated for longer periods of time. As previously noted only a relatively small batch of processing solution is used for processing of the batch amounts of media being passed through the processor and then returned to tank  210 . By properly monitoring the amount of media that is processed by a single batch of processing solution, the apparatus can be operated in the continuos operational mode. When the batch of processing is chemically depleted, it is sent to effluent tank  220  and fresh solution from tank is introduced into system  240 . This can be done as the old batch is being emptied into tank  220  or just after. For example by closing valve  18 , opening valves  170 ,  260  and by running pump  150  fresh solution is being supplied to system  240  while the exhausted batch solution leaves system  240 . The valves are maintained in this state until a sufficient an appropriate period of time and then valves  260 ,  270  are closed while valve  180  is opened for returning the system to a batch operation. 
     An apparatus made in accordance with the present invention has numerous advantages. For example, due to the low amount of processing solution in a batch, it can be rapidly heated to high than normal temperatures and cooled when it is returned to the tank  210 . The non-heating conducting materials used and insulated tank also assists in providing an efficient heating system. Also a single pump is used for filling of the system and circulating of the processing solution. 
     Referring to FIG. 13 there is illustrated a schematic illustration of a complete integrated processing apparatus system  270  with imaging media loading station  280  which is used to extract imaging media  115  from the light tight cartridge  290  for the purposes of illustration is an APS film cartridge. Controlled drag loading rollers  300  are used to meter imaging media into the first Processing apparatus/solution management module  310 . Rollers  300  are slightly slower that subsequent media drive rollers in the system to assure that the back side  125  of the imaging media  115  is pulled against upper section  30 . To prevent scuffing and damage to the imaging media controlled drag loading rollers are attached to the drive system by means of a slip clutch (not shown). The number of processing apparatus/solution management modules may be any number from 1 to n depending the process requirement for a given imaging media. For the purposes of illustration the process cycle for process step 1,  310  is Developer, for step 2,  320  is Bleach, for step 3,  330  is fixer, for step 4,  340  is Rinse, and for step 5,  350  is Stabilizer. All of the modules  310  through  350  are contained within processor section outer encasement/housing  360 . The processed imaging media proceeds to imaging media dryer  370  where it is dried and then into imaging media scanner  380  where the images are digitized and the digital images are transmitted to control computer  250 . 
     It is to be understood that the present invention may be varied with out departing from the scope of the present invention, the present invention being defined by the claims set forth below. 
     PARTS LIST 
     10 Process apparatus 
     20 Lower processor section 
     25 Support projection 
     30 Upper processor section 
     32 Processing solution 
     35 Mating surface 
     40 External tank 
     42 Imaging media 
     50 Photosensitive media entrance 
     60 Processing apparatus channel 
     70 Solution overflow 
     80 Solution impingement slot nozzle 
     90 Photosensitive media exit 
     100 Integrated transport/solution squeegee roller set 
     102 Contacting roller 
     104 Contacting roller with drive gear 
     106 Collection section 108  side wall 
     110 Solution drain 
     115 Imaging film/media 
     116 External tank conduits 
     120 Imaging film/media emulsion side 
     125 Imaging film/media back side 
     130 Drive gear 
     140 Solution management system 
     142 Conduits 
     150 Pump 
     160 Impulse “on demand” heater 
     170 Solenoid controlled valve 
     175 Solenoid controlled valve 
     180 Solenoid controlled valve 
     185 Solenoid controlled valve 
     190 Flapper valve 
     200 Solution filter 
     205 Pressure release valve 
     210 Solution storage tank 
     220 Solution effluent storage tank 
     225 Solution replenisher module 
     230 Solution metering pump 
     240 Replenisher storage tank 
     242 Replenishment solution 
     250 Control computer 
     260 Effluent tank solution return solenoid controlled solution valve 
     270 Integrated processing apparatus system 
     280 Imaging media loading station 
     290 APS film cartridge 
     300 Controlled drag loading rollers 
     310 Step 1 
     320 Step 2 
     330 Step 3 
     340 Step 4 
     350 Step 5 
     360 Processor section outer encasement 
     370 Imaging media dryer 
     380 Imaging media scanner