Patent Publication Number: US-6707990-B1

Title: Single use camera employing self-developing film and method thereof

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation-in-part application related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/549,654, filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Oct. 27, 1995 now abandoned, entitled “SINGLE USE CAMERA EMPLOYING SELF-DEVELOPING FILM AND METHOD THEREOF;” as well as U.S. patent application Ser. No. 60/013,745 filed concurrently herewith and entitled “SINGLE USE CAMERA FOR EMPLOYING SINGLE FILM FRAME ASSEMBLAGES AND METHOD THEREOF.” 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to photographic apparatus and methods and, in particular, to single use photographic apparatus and methods employing self-developing film. 
     For reasons of economy and convenience, so-called single use or disposable photographic cameras have gained widespread popularity in recent years. Typically, such cameras when sold contain conventional photographic film ready for exposure. Following film exposure, the camera and film are forwarded to a developer for processing instead of merely the film; as is customarily the case. At the processor, the exposed film is removed from the cameras for processing; while the cameras are not returned to the user but can be discarded. In any event, the photographer must wait until the film is returned from the processor. 
     Self-developing type cameras employing self-developing film have enjoyed wide spread commercial success because they allow the user to obtain the instant results of their photographic efforts. In general, however, self-developing cameras are dedicated for repeated use. However, because of the appeal of disposable single use cameras, there are continuing efforts to provide the numerous benefits of self-developing film in a single use camera. In this regard, reference is made to commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,453,804 issued Sep. 26, 1995 that discloses a single use camera for processing self-developing film. While the approach described in this patent is successful, there is nevertheless a continuing desire to devise other approaches for processing self-developing film in the context of single use cameras. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     According to the present invention, provision is made for apparatus and cameras for improving processing of self-developing film in the context of a single use or disposable camera. 
     Provision is made for a method of processing exposed photosensitive self-developing film in, preferably, a single use camera. Essentially, the steps comprise: providing a strip of exposed photosensitive self-developing film in a single use camera; providing a carrier sheet strip; advancing the photosensitive film and carrier sheet through a pressure-applying assembly and causing processing fluid to be dispensed between the film and carrier sheet before passing through the pressure applying assembly, whereby the processing fluid is spread between the film and the sheet as the latter are brought into a superimposed relationship to initiate development of the latent images as the film and the sheet emerge from the pressure applying assembly and exit the camera as an integral photographic film strip containing a series of processed images. 
     In an illustrated embodiment, the method further comprises the step of establishing a fluid seal along the longitudinal edges of the film and the sheet when the latter are brought into superimposed relationship with one another so as to form the integral film strip. 
     In another illustrated embodiment, the step of establishing the seal is achieved by reaction of the processing fluid with a self-sealing adhesive material formed at least along the marginal longitudinal edges of one of the film and the sheet. In this illustrated embodiment the covering sheet is a transparent sheet of material and has longitudinal rails thereon. 
     In another illustrated embodiment the step of dispensing the processing fluid is achieved by rupturing a reservoir of the fluid and dispensing its contact between the film and the carrier sheet before the latter are brought together into face-to-face contact by the pressure applying assembly. 
     In another embodiment, the advancing step includes employing a pull tab member coupled intermediate the film sheet and the carrier sheet which are connected in end-to-end relationship; whereby the pull tab member has an opening for allowing the photosensitive film to pass through the pull tab as the photosensitive film passes from the supply spool assembly to the take-up assembly during the exposure mode. For initiating processing, the pull tab is pulled from outside the camera by an operator for pulling the film and the carrier sheet through a pressure applying mechanism and effecting processing of the latent images. 
     In another illustrated embodiment, there is provided a step of advancing the photosensitive film to the take-up assembly by an amount which does not appreciably advance the carrier sheet from the supply means, whereby pulling of the pull tab will pull both the exposed photosensitive film and the carrier sheet so that the carrier sheet will be in face-to-face relationship with the photosensitive film as the two sheets pass through the spread assembly. 
     There is illustrated a method of sequentially processing individual exposable segments of photosensitive self-developing film in, preferably, a single use camera. One embodiment includes the steps of: providing a plurality of segments of exposable photosensitive self-developing film in a single use camera; providing a plurality of segments of carrier sheet in the camera; sequentially advancing corresponding and superimposable pairs of segments of film and carrier sheet through a pressure-applying assembly; selectively dispensing processing fluid between each corresponding pair of film and carrier sheet prior to passing through the pressure applying assembly, whereby the pressure-applying assembly spreads the processing fluid between corresponding pairs of film and carrier sheets as the latter are sequentially brought into a superimposed relationship for initiating development of the latent images as the respective pairs of film and the carrier sheet emerge from the pressure applying assembly and exit the camera. 
     In an illustrated embodiment, the method further comprises the step of connecting the respective sequential segments of film and the respective sequential segments of carrier sheet with respective flexible connecting means; and joining each sequential subassembly of film, connecting means, and carrier sheet by leader means. 
     In this illustrated embodiment, the method further makes provision for respectively pulling on the connecting means of each of said subassemblies by a corresponding pulling means so that the corresponding pair of film and carrier sheet of said subassembly is brought into intimate superimposed contact with each other as the pulling means is pulled from the camera through the pressure applying mechanism. 
     In another illustrated method, the step of dispensing the processing fluid is achieved by sequentially rupturing respective ones of a plurality of processing fluid reservoirs for dispensing the contents between a respective pair of superimposable film and carrier sheet prior to the pair being brought together by the pressure applying assembly. 
     In one preferred embodiment, each rupturable reservoir is connected to and displaceable with a corresponding pulling means for passing through the pressure applying assembly and being ruptured. 
     In the illustrated method, provision is made for separating each developed pair of film and carrier for forming separate and developed image carrying segments, each having at least a single developed frame. 
     In another illustrated embodiment, the method includes preventing subsequent development of sequential ones of the corresponding pairs of the film and sheet by preventing displacement of undeveloped pairs through the pressure applying assembly after a leading developed pair has already been pulled from the camera through the pressure applying means. 
     In the last embodiment, such method is carried out by a leader portion on a preceding subassembly cooperating with a leader portion on a subsequent subassembly, whereby both are interdicted in their movement such that a leading portion of an undeveloped subassembly within the camera is prevented from being pulled by an operator through the pressure applying assembly. Further, each leader portion includes a separable portion for facilitating separation of the imaging subassemblies. 
     There is also illustrated a method of sequentially processing individual exposable segments of photosensitive self-developing film in, preferably, a single use camera. One embodiment includes the steps of: providing a plurality of segments of exposable photosensitive self-developing film in a single use camera; providing a plurality of segments of carrier sheet in the camera; sequentially advancing corresponding and superimposable pairs of segments of film and carrier sheet through a pressure-applying assembly; selectively dispensing processing fluid between each corresponding pair of film and carrier sheet prior to passing through the pressure applying assembly, whereby the pressure-applying assembly spreads the processing fluid between corresponding pairs of film and carrier sheets as the latter are sequentially brought into a superimposed relationship for initiating development of the latent images as the respective pairs of film and the carrier sheet emerge from the pressure applying assembly and exit the camera. 
     Also according to the present invention, provision is made for a camera comprising a housing assembly including film exit means. Included in the housing assembly is a strip of photosensitive self-developing film; and a flexible strip of carrier sheet material. Provision is made for means for taking up the photosensitive film strip so that it passes an exposure station for exposure thereof and for storing the exposed photosensitive film strip. In this regard, there is also provided means for advancing the carrier strip and the exposed photosensitive film strip on the taking up means from the housing assembly through the exit means. Included is means for dispensing processing fluid between the exposed film strip and the carrier sheet. Pressure applying means are provided for applying pressure to the film and the carrier sheet for superimposing the photosensitive film relative to the carrier sheet following the dispensing of the fluid between the film and sheet for distributing and spreading the fluid over preselected portions of the exposed photosensitive film to develop the latent images and form an integral photographic film strip in response to the advancing means withdrawing the film and the strip through the exit means. 
     In an illustrated embodiment, provision is made for at least one of the photosensitive film or the carrier sheet having means thereon for establishing a processing fluid seal along the longitudinal edges of the superimposed strips for forming the integral film strip. In this illustrated embodiment, the sealing material can be a self sealing adhesive material. 
     In an illustrated embodiment, the carrier sheet is comprised of a transparent foldable sheet material over the developed images formed on the photosensitive film to form a unitary film strip with a series of developed images that can be cut into individual pictures. 
     In an illustrated embodiment, there is provision for dispensing means which includes a rupturable reservoir containing processing fluid. The reservoir is ruptured in response to passing through the pressure applying means. 
     In another illustrated embodiment, the photosensitive film and carrier sheet are joined in end-to-end relationship and coiled around a common supply spool assembly rotatably mounted in the camera housing assembly. 
     In yet another embodiment there is provided flexible hinge means interconnecting the photosensitive film and the carrier strip in the noted end-to-end relationship. 
     In still another embodiment, the advancing means includes a connecting pull tab member which has one end portion coupled to the hinge means, wherein the pull tab includes a slot for allowing the photosensitive film to pass therethrough as the film is being exposed. 
     In still another embodiment, the pressure applying means includes a pair of pressure applying spread rollers which are each journalled for rotation in a pillow block member, wherein the pillow block members are constructed for guiding the photosensitive film and sheet therepast; and for creating an edge guide for the film. 
     Essentially included in the camera apparatus is a housing assembly having an exit passageway; a sheet of photosensitive self-developing film; and, a carrier sheet material. Supply means is provided having consecutively wound thereon the photosensitive and carrier sheets. Included is hinge means for coupling one end portion of the photosensitive sheet to the carrier sheet. Further included is a take-up means connected to another end portion of the photosensitive sheet for unwinding at least the photosensitive sheet from the supply means for thereby allowing sequential exposure of the photosensitive sheet at a camera focal plane. Provision is made for a second means operably connected to the hinge means and being displaceable exteriorly of the housing assembly, by an operator, for unwinding the exposed photosensitive sheet from the take-up means and the carrier sheet from the supply means. A rupturable reservoir of processing fluid containing processing fluid is connected to the second means and is displaceable between the carrier sheet and said photosensitive material. Provision is made for pressure applying means for rupturing the rupturable reservoir and spreading the processing fluid to and between the photosensitive and carrier sheet as the latter advance through the pressure applying means in response to the hinge means being displaced through the pressure applying means by the second means. 
     In an illustrated embodiment, the tab means interconnects the carrier and photosensitive sheets together and includes a passage therein through which the photosensitive film passes. 
     In an illustrated embodiment, provision is made for an exit passageway in the housing assembly for allowing exiting of the carrier and photosensitive sheets therefrom. 
     In another illustrated embodiment, the rupturable reservoir is connected to the hinge means so as to be ruptured by and between the pressure applying means. 
     In another illustrated embodiment, the pressure applying means includes a pair of pressure-applying spread rollers which are mounted in a pair of pillow block members. The pillow block members are arranged to form edge guides for the passing film and sheet. 
     In yet another illustrated embodiment, the carrier sheet is provided with a tab which is arranged to engage the hinge means for forcing the reservoir into the pressure applying means so as to rupture the same. 
     Among the other objects and features of the present invention are the provisions of a single use camera and method which processes the self-developing film therein; the provision of an improved single use camera and method in which the self-developing film is processed in response to having a self-developing photosensitive film and a carrier sheet brought into face-to-face relationship after processing fluid has been dispensed to and between the film and the carrier sheet; the provision of processing the film and the sheet in response to an operator pulling the film and the carrier sheet from the camera; the provision of an improved film assemblage for use preferably in a camera of the single use type; the provision of the noted film assemblage having a plurality of image forming segments capable of being exposed and processed independently and sequentially, in response to an operator withdrawing the assemblage from the camera; and the provision of a film assemblage having the image forming segments or elements separable. 
    
    
     Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description thereof when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like structure is represented by like reference numerals throughout the several views. 
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1 is a top plan view of one form of camera illustrative on an embodiment of the invention; 
     FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic side elevational view of the camera of FIG. 1, with scene light travel through a lens and onto an exposure plane; 
     FIG. 3 is a rear elevational view of the camera of FIGS. 1 and 2, with a rear cover removed to show some of the working components of the camera; 
     FIG. 3A is an exploded perspective view of the camera; 
     FIG. 4 is a fragmentary view of a film system usable in the camera of the present invention; 
     FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of a film take-up spool used in the camera; 
     FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of a meter roll used in the camera; 
     FIG. 7 is an end elevational view of the meter roll shown in FIG. 6; 
     FIG. 8 is fragmentary view of one embodiment of a pull tab member used in conjunction with the film system of the present invention; 
     FIGS. 9-12 are elevational and partly diagrammatic views illustrative of a shutter recock mechanism structure and operation; 
     FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic view of an embodiment of a pull tab mechanism usable with the film system; 
     FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic view of another embodiment of a pull tab mechanism; 
     FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic view of another embodiment of a pull tab mechanism; 
     FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic view of still another embodiment of a pull tab mechanism; 
     FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic view of yet another embodiment of a pull tab of the invention; 
     FIGS. 18-20 are diagrammatic views of another embodiment of a pull tab mechanism; 
     FIGS. 21 and 22 are diagrammatic views of another embodiment of a pull tab mechanism; 
     FIG. 23 is a diagrammatic view of another embodiment of the pull tab pulling process; 
     FIGS. 23A and 23B are diagrammatic views of an arrangement of a carrier sheet and photosensitive film being integral; 
     FIGS. 24-26 are elevational and partly diagrammatic views of the processing steps of the present invention; 
     FIG. 27 is a diagrammatic view of an embodiment showing a pull tab securing mechanism of the present invention and its spread rollers; 
     FIGS. 28 and 28 A are enlarged and fragmented views of the biasing of an upper one of the pair of pillow blocks; and, 
     FIG. 29 is a schematic view of an integral film assemblage having a series of developed images which assemblage has been pulled from the camera. 
     FIG. 30 represents a schematic of an improved film assemblage made according to the principles of the present invention; 
     FIG. 31 is a fragmented exploded perspective view of one component of the film assemblage; 
     FIG. 32 is an exploded side elevational view, partly in section, of a joint made according to the principles of the present invention; 
     FIG. 33 is an enlarged fragmented view of another joint component of the film assemblage; 
     FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a leader segment of the film assemblage; 
     FIG. 35 represents one arrangement of film and pull tabs in an initial at rest configuration; 
     FIG. 36 represents an enlarged fragmented portion, with portions omitted for clarity, of another aspect of the camera; 
     FIG. 37 is a schematic representation of the camera components during one aspect of the operation; 
     FIG. 38 is a view similar to FIG.  37 ? but representing the components in yet a different position during operation; 
     FIG. 39 is a view similar to FIG. 38, but with the components in yet another position during operation; 
     FIG. 40 is a view similar to FIG. 39, but with components and still a further depicted position during operation; 
     FIGS. 41 and 42 represent the components in yet further positions during operation; 
     FIG. 43 represents the position of the components following separation of one of the film subassemblies; 
     FIG. 44 represents the components of the camera in yet another position during operation; 
     FIGS. 45 and 46 represent still further depictions of the components during subsequent steps of the operation of the camera. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring initially to FIGS. 1 to  3 A, there is illustrated one preferred embodiment of a single use camera  10 . The camera  10  includes a lighttight camera housing or film package  12  which can be made of a variety of suitable materials and a viewfinder  14  having an eyepiece  16  extending rearwardly therefrom. An objective lens opening  18  and a viewfinder window  20  are disposed in the front and base block  22  of the camera. As best shown in FIG. 3A, the housing assembly  12  includes a back cover  12   a  and a bottom cover  12   b . An objective lens  24  is disposed adjacent the lens opening  18  (FIG. 2) and is adapted to direct image-carrying light rays R to a mirror  26 . The mirror  26  reflects the light rays onto a film plane  28  in an exposure chamber  30 , which plane constitutes an exposure area. As will be explained, a negative strip of film will be advanced through the exposure chamber  30 , whereby it can be exposed sequentially. The camera  10  shares many similar aspects to that described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,453,804 such as the exposure control and power supply which description is incorporated herein by reference. 
     The single use camera  10  is adapted to operate with a variety of self-developing film systems  32  in which a container of processing fluid is actuated in order to dispense a processing fluid reagent for initiating processing of such a film. Reference is made to FIG. 4 for illustrating one preferred embodiment of such a film system. In this embodiment, the film system  32  essentially includes an integral negative or photosensitive film strip portion  34 , a strip of carrier sheet  36 , as well as a foldable hinge portion  38  which interconnects the negative strip to the carrier strip. The photosensitive film strip portion is of a length such that it can handle a plurality of longitudinally spaced latent images. The hinge  38  is made of a flexible material, such as a polyethylene coated foil, a thin polyester film, a heat sealed coated foil, or paper and acts to couple the carrier to the photosensitive portion. This type of self-developing film is adapted to have a processing fluid applied to and between superimposed surfaces of the negative and carrier strips for initiating developing process of the latent images. The processing fluid initiates self-development in a well known process in the photographic arts of the latent images in the exposed negative strip to an image receiving layer in the carrier sheet  36 . It will be further appreciated that the carrier strip  36  may or may not include an image-receiving layer, but in this embodiment the carrier strip  36  includes the image receiving layer and a polyester sheet. In this regard, such a carrier sheet incorporates an image-receiving layer which is described in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 4,605,608 and such description is incorporated herein as a part hereof. Thus, the carrier can be an integral part of the final photographic film strip  150  (FIG. 29) with a series of processed images  152 . A carrier sheet having a mordant on it can be peeled away or the carrier sheet may merely assist in spreading the processing fluid on the photosensitive sheet. It will be understood that in a peel-a-apart application the mordant and a release layer can be on a paper base or a non-transparent base carrier, such as a suitable pigmented polyester one example of which is MELINEX™ that is commercially available. It will be understood that a mirror is not necessary for reversing the image in this peel-apart application. Still another approach encompasses an integral film format wherein the photosensitive sheet includes a transparent negative base having a mordant and photosensitive layers separated by at least a pigmented layer through which the dyes transfer. In this system there is also s no need for a mirror for reversing the image during exposure. 
     In this embodiment, there is provided a pair of rails  37  which are attached to the longitudinal edges of the carrier strip  36 . The rails assist in establishing a developer thickness gap between the adjacent strips. The carrier sheet is, preferably, a polyester material which is transparent. However, the carrier sheet need not be made of materials which are transparent, but can be made of opaque materials as well. While the illustrated embodiment shows the rails on the carrier strip  36 , it will be appreciated that the rails can be attached to the negative as well. In order to make an integral film unit the present invention contemplates having the top surfaces of the rails covered with an adhesive of the self-sealing type, such as a water activated ˜s adhesive as gelatin, a copolymer of maleic acid, a methylvinylether or HEC (hydroxyethylcellulose), or starch based material. In addition, other self-sealing materials, include pressure-sensitive tapes can be used. This adhesive will rapidly seal the edges against the processing reagent; thereby preventing leakage. The longitudinal rails control the spreading of the processing fluid between the strips. The innermost end  20  of the positive may have a trap zone and a tear strip zone may be on the negative&#39;s opaque leader, preventing further progress through the spread rolls and trapping excess processing reagent in the camera as the unitized picture strip is pulled free from the take-up roll. In this embodiment, the negative and carrier strips which are in face-to-face contact with the reagent containing material, such as styrene butadiene which will cause the strips to remain permanently laminated to each other so that the user can later cut the pictures on the strip into individual frames. Although the illustrated embodiment, has the carrier sheet joined to the photosensitive sheet, the present invention also contemplates that the carrier can be removed from the developed negative and the latter cut into individual frames. An example of this latter approach is described in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 4,370,045 issued Jan. 25, 1983 in which 35 mm instant type transparency is used. It will be understood that the structures of the photosensitive materials can be like those of the various kinds of self-developing film presently known. 
     A storage or supply spool assembly  40 , as viewed in FIGS. 3 and 3A, is journalled for rotation in the camera housing  12  adjacent one side of the exposure chamber  30  and has the unexposed film system  32  wound thereon. The film system  32  will gradually unwind from a means for supporting the elongated film system in the form of a roll, such as a supply spool assembly  40  during exposure and developing modes of operation; as will be explained hereinafter. Although this embodiment illustrates that the entire film system  32  is mounted on the supply spool assembly, it will be appreciated that the film system can be stored in a variety of ways. For example, the film system can be stored as by being placed in a suitable cassette or stored in a serpentine folded condition in a film magazine or the like. Also, this invention contemplates having negative and covering sheets stored separately and subsequently merged in a face-to-face manner for effecting the developing of the exposed film in a manner consistent with the teachings of this invention. 
     Reference is now made to FIGS. 3,  3 A &amp;  5 , for illustrating a film take-up pool assembly  42  that has a leader  34   a  of the negative film strip attached thereto. Rotation of the film take-up assembly  42  results in unwinding of the film system  32  from the supply spool assembly  40  and advancement thereof through the exposure chamber  30 . In this connection, the take-up assembly  42  includes a take-up spool  44  having its opposite axial end portions rotatably journalled (not shown) in the housing  12 . The take-up assembly  42  is located on a side of the exposure chamber  30  that is opposite the supply spool assembly  40 . For rotating the take-up assembly, a ratchet wheel  46  is fixedly connected to one end of the take-up spool  44  and is at least partially exposed to the exterior of the camera housing  12  for facilitating user rotation thereof. 
     FIGS. 6 and 7, depict a cylindrical metering roll  50  having a journal  52  at one end and a journal bearing  54  at its opposite end for rotatably supporting the roll. The metering roll  50  is located in a closely spaced and generally parallel relationship to the take-up spool  44 ; such that when the film system  32  is wound onto the take-up spool it winds around the metering roll. A cam  56  and a radially extending detent  58  are formed on the journal surface as illustrated. The metering roll  50  includes a spool shaft  57  having a pair of spaced friction wheels  59  thereon which support the longitudinal edges of the film. In addition, a cylindrical surface of each of the fraction wheels  59  is provided with a high-friction elastomeric coating  60 , such as made from urethane, neoprene, and silicone rubber. The coating  60  frictionally engages, in a non-destructive manner, one surface of the film system  32 , whereby the advancing film imparts rotational movement to the metering roll  50 . Rotation of the metering roll  50  results in corresponding rotational movement of the detent  58 ; which rotation is stopped when the detent engages a stop lug  62  on a shutter recocking mechanism  64  (FIGS.  9 - 12 ). As a consequence, resistance to manual turning of the ratchet wheel  46  is encountered; thereby indicating to the user that the film system has been properly indexed for another exposure. The interaction of the meter roll and the shutter recock align precisely the next film segment of the film within the exposure chamber  30 . 
     As shown in FIGS. 9-12, a hammer  66  is pivotally mounted on a pin  68  extending inside the camera housing. The hammer  66  includes the stop lug  62 , a release arm  70 , a recock arm  72 , and a shutter blade actuator arm  74 . As illustrated in FIG. 9, the release arm  70  is engaged with a release button  75  by which an operator triggers exposure of a segment of a negative film strip. The release arm  70  is biased in a clockwise direction as viewed in FIGS. 9-12, by spring means  76 . Positioned proximate the hammer  66  is a shutter assembly  78  actuated by a shutter blade  80  extending from the shutter assembly. 
     Upon actuation of the release button  74 , the release arm  70  is released and in response to the bias of the spring means  76  rotates with the remainder of the hammer  66  in a clockwise direction around the pin  68 . Such rotation moves the actuator arm  70  into engagement with the shutter blade  80  to trip the shutter and expose the segment of the film strip located within the exposure area, Simultaneously, the stop lug  62  moves away from the meter roll detent  58  to permit counter-clockwise movement of the meter roll  50  (FIGS. 24-26) and thereby permit counter-clockwise rotation of the take-up spool  44 . 
     The operator then engages the exposed portion of the ratchet wheel  46  (FIG. 1) to turn it and thereby the take-up spool  44  in order to move the just exposed film segment from the exposure area  30  and also unwind another segment of the negative into the exposure chamber. Rotation of the metering roll  50  causes turning of the cam surface  56  (FIG. 9) which abuts the recock arm  72  and rotates the hammer  66  to a recock position as shown in FIG. 9 wherein the release arm  70  is spaced from but positioned to engage the shutter blade  80 . After further rotation of the meter roll  50 , the detent  50  reengages the stop lug  62  (FIG. 10) to stop rotation of the meter roll, thereby halting further film advancement. In this latter position, the shutter recock mechanism  64  is set for another exposure of the film and the latter is properly located within the exposure chamber. 
     Reference is now made to FIG. 8 for illustrating a film processing actuating means or assembly  82  for initiating development of the exposed film. The actuating assembly  82  includes an elongate pull tab member  84  that is to be pulled by the user from outside the camera, as will be described, for initiating film processing. In this s embodiment, when the pull tab  84  is pulled it advances the exposed negative strip  34  from the take-up spool  44 , and simultaneously advances the carrier strip  36  from the supply spool assembly  40 ; whereupon both are merged into face-to-face contact together in a pressure applying means, such as a spread roller assembly  86 ; see FIGS. 24-26. As a result of such pulling action, the interior surfaces of the negative and the carrier strips are brought together in superimposed relationship. Also, during such actuation, a processing fluid containing means, such as a rupturable pod  88  comes between the negative and carrier strips and travels between the spread roller assembly  86  so that the pod is ruptured and the processing fluid dispensed and spread in a uniform layer therebetween. As a consequence, the entire length of the exposed negative strip  34  has the fluid spread therebetween as the film exits the spread roller assembly  86  and the camera housing  12 . As a result, there is provided an integral developed film unit containing a plurality of developed exposures which can be cut into individual frames by a user. While use of the pod  88  is preferred, it will be understood that this invention contemplates other fluid containing and dispensing devices and methods for dispensing on demand processing fluid between the negative and carrier strips. 
     The pull tab  84  is a relatively thin and flat metal body that is initially situated in the nip of a pair of spread rollers  90 ,  92  forming part of the spread roller assembly  86 . The pull tab is adapted to have its end portions supported in the housing. The pull tab  84  establishes a pregap for the rollers when the camera is in its pre-processing mode. A transversely oriented opening  93  formed in the pull tab allows the negative film strip  34  and the hinge portion  38  to pass easily therethrough as the latter are advanced to the take-up spool  44 . This facilitates advancement of the negative strip  34  as well as advancement of the carrier strip  36 . In this embodiment, the pull tab  84  can be further attached to a tab pulling element, such as a finger loop  94  (FIG.  3 A). In the tab embodiment shown in FIG. 3A there is illustrated a tab which has a pair of spring biased tabs  85  which are constructed to engage and load the longitudinal margins of the negative against the metering roll as well as provide a lead in for even more positively engaging a flap, described below, of the carrier sheet. The finger loop will not be accessible to the user from the  15  camera exit slot  95  until the tab is pushed outwardly from between the roller nip. A wrist strap  94   a  (FIGS.  3 A˜ 25 ) is attached to a center portion of the camera cover  12   b . It will be appreciated that the slot  95  allows egress of the pull tab  84 , as well as the entire film system  32  during film processing. The wrist strap  94   a  provides self-aligning functions for the pulling forces on the exiting film so that the resultant pulling forces are generally transmitted along a longitudinal axis of the tab regardless of the angle at which the loop is held. In addition, the wrist strap  94   a  serves as a carrying device for the camera. While a finger loop is preferred for pulling the tab and the film from the camera, it will be appreciated that a variety of devices can be used including an elongated portion of the pull tab itself. 
     As shown in FIG. 27, a tab finger  94  is provided for releasably securing the pull tab  84  in the camera housing  12 . The tab finger  98  frictionally engages a notch  101  (FIG. 8) formed along a longitudinal edge of the pull tab  84 . A pawl  100  is pivotally connected to the opposite end of the tab finger  98  for engaging teeth on the ratchet wheel  46 , thereby holding the latter against clockwise rotation. However, the restraining forces exerted by the spread roller system are overcome upon the requisite pushing forces being exerted on the pull tab  84  by a flap on the hinge. When the pull tab is horizontally pushed outside the camera, it causes the finger  98  to pivot which in turn retracts the pawl  100  from engagement with the ratchet wheel  46 . As a result, the take-up spool  44  is free to rotate in an opposite rotational direction upon continued pulling by the user on the pull tab. Accordingly, the exposed negative can be unwound from the take-up spool. While a tab finger  98  contacting the pull tab  84  is depicted, it will be appreciated that other tab restraining and releasing mechanisms, such as an overcenter spring can be used instead. 
     In this embodiment, the film system  32  is of such a length that when the negative has been fully exposed the film system is of such a length that the flexible hinge  38  is located within the tab opening  93 . Accordingly, when a user pulls on the pull tab  84 , the hinge  38  is also pulled through the spread rollers  90 ,  92  as well as the pod and both the negative strip  34  and the carrier strip  36 . The pod is burst and its contents are spread evenly between the strips  34  and  36  which merge in a superimposed manner as they pass through the spread rollers. The hinge  38  is made of a material which possesses strength for transmitting the pulling forces on the strips  34 ,  36 . 
     Reference is made back again to the pod  88  which in this embodiment is attached at a proximal end, by a flexible strip  88   a  as by an adhesive, along a trailing edge of the pull tab  84 . The pod  88  by being attached to the pull tab  84  is also movable into the bite of the spread rollers  90 ,  92  before the negative and the carrier strips are merged together into intimate juxtaposed relationship with one another. The pod  88  is constructed of rupturable material and with a sufficient volume of processing reagent therein so as to be capable of dispensing a desired amount of the processing fluid over an entire length of the film system  32 . The distal end of the pod  88  is movable and can be stored in a variety of positions, such as depicted in FIGS. 24 &amp; 27, so as to fit compactly within the housing assembly  12 . 
     Reference is made to FIG. 13 for illustrating another embodiment wherein the pull tab  84   a  has a post  93  extending into the opening  93   a . The pull tab  84   a  is initially maintained in the nip of the spread rollers and the post  93  extends through a hole  104  in the hinge portion after a requisite length of negative has past through the opening  93   a . In this manner, continued movement of the hinge  38   a  displaces the tab  84   a  away from the spread rollers to outside the camera. This displacement indicates to a user that processing can be initiated and that the tab can be pulled for commencing processing. 
     Reference is made to FIG. 14 for illustrating still another embodiment for displacing the tab  84   b  for indicating that processing is ready. In this embodiment, the hinge  38   b  is provided with a pair of protrusions  106  wider than the tab opening. As a result, the protrusions  106  engage a trailing edge of the pull tab  84   b  so as to displace it from the nip of the spread rollers, thereby indicating to a user that processing can be commenced and assisting in the user being able to readily grasp it. 
     FIG. 15 schematically depicts yet another preferred embodiment illustrating a construction for displacing the pull tab  84   b  relative to the spread rollers for indicating to a user that processing can commence. In this regard, a flap  108  is formed to engage a trailing edge of the pull tab thereby pushing the latter outwardly relative to the nip of the spread rollers. The flap  108  can be formed in a variety of ways and in the illustrated embodiment is formed as a leading edge portion of the carrier sheet which is adjacent the hinge portion  38   c  and is bent to extend upwardly as the pod  88 . The flap  108  has sufficient rigidity to retain its configuration before and during use. The flap  108  can be replaced by other structural and functional equivalents, for example, a tooth member or the like. 
     FIG. 16 schematically illustrates another embodiment of the pull tab  84   d  before the latter is pulled from the nip of the rollers. In this embodiment, the pull tab  84   d  has a generally U-shaped configuration with the leading edge of the legs  110 ′ a  and  110 ′ b  being attached to a pulling element, such as a generally U-shaped pull handle  112  which has its ends snapped into holes in the legs. The pod  88  is also flexibly attached to the trailing edge of the pull tab. In this embodiment, a flap  108  is provided on the carrier strip. The flap  108  is oriented upwardly so as to engage the trailing edge of the pull tab  84   d  and thereby urge the latter outwardly relative to the camera housing after the negative strip has been advanced sufficiently by the take-up spool. While in the illustrated embodiment the flap is depicted on the carrier strip  36 , it will be understood that the flap  108  can be located on the hinge. Of course, the present invention contemplates that indication of a processing ready condition can be achieved by a variety of approaches including electric and the like instead of solely relying on displacement of the pull tab. 
     Reference is made to FIG. 17 which illustrates an embodiment similar to FIG. 16 wherein the pull tab  84   e  has a generally U-shaped configuration; but the legs are oriented in the opposite direction relative to their direction in FIG.  16 . Also, the pod  88   a  is connected thereto by flexible strips which are adhesively joined to the legs  110 ′ a  and  110 ′ b . The pull tab  84   e  has a flap  108  which is adapted to engaging a trailing edge of the pull tab for displacing the latter from the nip. 
     FIGS. 18-20 show another embodiment, wherein the pull tab  84   f  is a generally T-shape member  114  that has a pod  88  attached to a trailing edge of its body which is generally transverse to an elongated stem portion  116 . The pull tab  84   f  is frictionally held by sidewalls of the housing; whereupon the stem  116  can protrude through a slot  118  when the flap  108  urges the pull tab  84   f  rightwardly as viewed in FIGS. 21 and 22. In this embodiment, the pull tab must is not initially placed in the nip of the spread rollers. Rather, the desired spread roller pregap position is maintained by for example a pair of thin shims  120  . The shims  120  are dislodged s from the bite of the rollers such as when the pull tab is pulled by the user. In this embodiment, the shims  120  are plastic members having an appropriate thickness for establishing a desired pregap. 
     Reference is now made to FIGS. 21-23 for illustrating embodiments in which the pod instead of being attached to the pull tab is integrally attached to the film. FIG. 21 shows a curved pod  122  attached to the rolled film strip adjacent the carrier sheet  36   b . One end of the carrier sheet  36   b  is attached to one surface of one end of the pod  122  and the negative sheet  34   b  is attached to the opposite side of the pod. In this embodiment, there is no hinge. Also in this embodiment, the spread roller assembly  86   a  is adapted to be placed on the same side of the exposure area  38  as the supply spool assembly. The pod  122  has as noted a curved configuration for facilitating their movement through the spread roller nip. A curved chute  124  guides the pod during its movement past the spread rollers. A pull chord element  84   g  is to be pulled by the user and is attached to the curved pod. The pod chord or other suitable pulling element will not extend from between the nip prior to pulling on the latter. FIG. 23 is similar to FIGS. 21 and 22 but shows an embodiment in which a pull chord (not shown) pulls the pod directly downwardly from the camera without the use of a chute. In this regard, the spread rollers  90   a  and  92   a  are positioned as indicated. FIG. 23A is another embodiment wherein a transparent carrier sheet and a photosensitive layer are cowound on a supply spool and are arranged to pass through the film plane for film exposure and are then cowound on the take-up roller assembly prior to processing. In this embodiment, the pod  88   c  (FIG. 23B) has one end of a flexible jump strip  91  attached to one side of a pod flap  87  and the other end of the strip to a photosensitive sheet  34   c . The end of the jump strip  91  attached to the pod flap is also attached adhesively to the rails  37   c  at least adjacent the pod so as to thereby provide for leakage protection when the pod is ruptured and the contents of the pod flow between the sheet  34   c  and the carrier  36   c . In this embodiment, the carrier sheet  36   c  and its rails are attached to the pod flap  87 . For commencing processing, the loop  94   a  on the pod  88   c  will be pulled downwardly through the pregapped rollers. As a result, the rollers  90   a ,  90   b  will rupture the pod  88 c and the reagent will pass between  34   c  and  36   c  as the latter are simultaneously unwound from the take-up roller. 
     In FIGS. 27,  28  &amp;  28 A, there is illustrated one preferred embodiment of the spread roller or pressure applying assembly  86  which is located in the camera housing  12  adjacent the take-up spool assembly  42 . The pressure applying assembly  86  is of a type which is operable for bursting the processing pod  88  and spreading  20  its processing fluid between the superimposed surfaces of the exposed negative and carrier strips. The pressure applying assembly  86  includes a pair of spread rollers  90  and  92  and corresponding pair of spaced apart generally parallel and lower and upper elongated pillow block members  130 ,  132 ; respectively. The pillow blocks act to hold the spread rollers for rotation. The pillow block members are spring loaded by a suitable biasing device (not shown) which applies the forces necessary to achieve the desired processing as well as of course the bursting of the pod. The pillow block members  130 ,  132  are made of suitable plastic such as polyester or lubricated styrene and the spread rollers can be made of drill rods made of a suitable steel with smooth surfaces that permit slippage thereof relative to the pillow blocks. Such slippage allows the entire roll of film to pass through the drill rods so that the film system be processed consistent with the teachings of this invention. By having the drill rods, there is provided a relatively inexpensive set of spread rollers which can effect the desired spreading for self-developing processing. Although not shown, the present invention envisions the use of a spreading assembly which includes a spreader bar. The lower pillow block member  130  is received within a correspondingly formed well  134  in the cover  12   b . The upper pillow block member  132  is normally biased downwardly by a leaf spring  138  which has its opposite longitudinal ends abutting spaced projections  140  and its intermediate portion engaging a center projection so as to normally bias the upper pillow block member  132  into engagement with the lower pillow block member so as to close the nip therebetween with sufficient force for being able to properly rupture the reservoir and spread the processing fluid therebetween during processing of the film system. The pillow block members  130 ,  132  provide edge control functions for the fluid on the film system as the latter is passed through the spread rollers  90 ,  92 . The nip of the spread rollers  90 ,  92  are, however, normally kept open prior to processing because of a pull tab member which is physically interposed therebetween. Once the pull tab is removed, the spring is active to urge the rollers into full engagement with one another. Reference is made back to FIG. 3A for illustrating that the back cover  12   b  is formed with a well  144  which serves to functionally serve as the lower pillow block for the lower peel roller. 
     After having explained the construction of camera, it is believed that its operation is self-evident. However, to supplement that description it will be understood that once all the series of latent images have been exposed by having the photosensitive strip advance by the take-up means, the hinge portion is situated within the tab opening. After the last exposure the flap on adjacent the leading edge of the carrier sheet will engage the pull tab as the former is advancing so as to push the pull tab from between the nip of the rollers. In this manner, the pull tab is pushed from the camera exit. Accordingly, the user can pull on the finger loop and thus pull the pull tab, the associated film strip, and carrier sheet through the spread rollers and outside the camera for initiating developing as noted above. During the noted pushing of the tab, the tab finger is acted upon to release the pawl, thereby freeing the take-up reel for rotation. Consequently, with the pull tab displaced from the spread rollers, the user&#39;s pulling action on the pull tab serves to pull the tab and its associated pod into and through the nip of the spread rollers. The pod will burst and the processing reagent fluid will be dispensed and spread between the mutually facing surfaces of the strips which are brought into to juxtaposed relationship with each other as they progressively move through the rollers during continued pulling action. The processing fluid initiates the development between the film and the sheet. In this embodiment, the development takes place, whereby the carrier sheet receives the developed latent image. However as noted, the carrier sheet need not receive the developed image, but can merely be used for spreading the processing reagent and thereby developing the latent images recorded on the film. In this latter case, of course, the carrier sheet will be peeled from the film. Which ever type of film system is processed according to this invention, the series of latent images are developed as the film is advanced from the camera and the individual developed images can be suitably cut by the operator such that the individual frames are formed. Accordingly, there results extremely simple and inexpensive apparatus and methods for reliably exposing and developing self-developing type in the context of a single-use camera. 
     Initial reference is made to FIGS. 30-34 for illustrating one preferred embodiment of a film assemblage  200  made according to the principles of the present invention. FIG. 30 represents an elongated strip made of a plurality of image forming subassemblies  201 ,  202  made of the materials similar to that described above in connection with the previous embodiments. Thus, detailed descriptions thereof are not necessary for understanding this embodiment. However, only those portions thereof necessary for understanding the present embodiment will be set forth. However, it will be understood that the film assemblage  200  may include several of the image forming assemblies described herein. Further, consistent with the principles of the present invention, each image forming subassembly may be of such a predetermined length as to encompass a single frame exposure or may in fact carry multiple frame exposures. 
     With reference to FIGS. 30 and 31, it will be seen that each image forming subassembly  201 ,  202  includes a predetermined length of receiving sheet  204 ,  205 , each of which, has a pair of rails adhesively attached along the longitudinal edges thereof. In addition, the film assemblage  200  includes a leader means  206 ,  208  for each subassembly  201 ,  202 ; respectively. Each leader means  206 ,  208  is comprised of a sheet of paper or, preferably, other non-film material and has an adhesive strip  218 ,  212  formed intermediate therein. A pair of registration holes  214 ,  206  extend through each of the adhesive layers and the paper leaders; respectively. In addition, perforations  218  extend through each pair of leader and adhesive layer. The perforations  218  are for purposes of facilitating separation of each subassembly, such that discrete subassemblies may be withdrawn from the camera and separated prior to other unexposed subassemblies of the film being exposed and developed. 
     Reference is made to FIG. 30, wherein the leader  208  has an end portion overlapping and adhesively bonded to a leading edge of an elongated strip of negative  220 . The trailing end portion of the negative strip  220  has a tape  222  strip joining it to a leading edge of a hinge sheet  224  as best represented in FIG.  33 . In this regard, the tape strip  222  is adhesively connected to the trailing edge of the negative with a leading edge of the corresponding hinge material. The trailing edge of the hinge  224  has a connection to receiving sheet  204  as shown in FIG.  32 . As depicted in FIG. 32, the leading edge portion of the receiving sheet  204  is adhesively bonded to a corresponding trailing edge portion of the hinge material so that an unlaminated portion  226  provides a gap  228 . The unlaminated portion  226  serves as a tab  230 , the operation of which will be made apparent in the subsequent description. The trailing edge of the receiving sheet  204  is coupled to the supply spool assembly  232 . Accordingly, the foregoing description is representative of the components forming image forming subassembly  202 . The image forming subassemblies  201  has the same construction to that described above. Basically, the receiving sheet  205  has its trailing end portion adhesively connected to a leading portion of the leader  208 . The leading end of the receiving sheet  205  is connected to the hinge  234  so as to form a tab  235 ; similar to the tab  230 . The negative sheet  236  is connected by the tape  238  to the hinge  236 . It will be appreciated that the leader means  206  is attached to the take-up roll  239  as viewed in FIG.  30  and the hinge  234 . 
     Reference is made to FIG. 35 for illustrating the initial arrangement of the film assemblage  200  within the camera  240  with the appropriate portions of the leader  210  and receiving sheets  204  attached to the take-up and feed spools respectively. To better understand this initial cooperation of components, prior to exposure, it will be appreciated that intermediate portions of the film assemblage  200  extend through openings  242 ,  244  in the pair of first and second pull tabs  246 ,  248  (See FIGS. 35 and 36) for facilitating passage of the film assemblage. The pull tabs  246 ,  248  have their leading ends in cooperative relationship with a film stop member  250 . As viewed in FIG. 35, the longitudinal edges of each upper and lower pair of pillow blocks on each side of the film  252  have relief portions  254 ,  256  arranged to receive respective ones of the edge portions of the tabs. The second tab  246  has its leading edge resting on a sloped camming surface  258  of the film stop member. The first pull tab  246  is arranged in the slot in the pillow block such that it cooperates with the lowermost incline surface  260 . The film stop member  250  has a pair of generally square-shaped protrusions  262  formed therein, which cooperate with respective openings in the leaders so as to effect a stopping action. As a consequence, subsequent unexposed image forming subassemblies cannot be inadvertently pulled from the camera by the user when a developed subassembly is being pulled. 
     As schematically represented in FIGS. 35 and 36, the uppermost surface of the stop member  250  has a push rod  264  coupled thereto. The push rod  264  is coupled appropriately to the other end portion of a ratchet arm  266 . The ratchet arm  266  is pivotally mounted to the camera housing such that its ratchet tooth  268  can effectively engage and disengage with the ratchet teeth of the ratchet wheel (not shown) mounted on the take-up roll  239 . The ratchet arm  266  is biased by a spring biasing member  270 , whereby the ratchet is normally held in engagement by the ratchet teeth. Accordingly, the take-up roll  239  can rotate one direction only during winding of the film. 
     Reference is made to FIGS. 37-46 for describing the operation 
     For commencing operation of the camera such that each of the serially connected image-forming subassemblies can be sequentially and independently exposed and developed, an operator will commence operation by depressing the shutter button as described in the previous embodiments for taking an exposure. The meter roll  272  will be effective to advance exposed film at the exposure plane, onto the take-up roll  239 . As noted earlier, the negative sheet  236  has a predetermined length sufficient for carrying either a single frame image or multiple frame images thereon. Upon completion of exposure of the entire negative sheet of the first subassembly  201 , the tab portion  235  will engage the pull tab  246  and as it is displaced towards the meter roll will displace the lower pull tab  246  into engagement with the camming surface  260 . Consequently, the force generated is sufficient to drive the push rod  264  upwardly against the bias of the spring  270 . This action releases the ratchet  268  from the ratchet wheel. In this manner, the take-up roll  239  can be rotated in an opposite direction for reasons that will be self-evident. The tab  235  will displace the pull tab  246  through the bite of the pressure rollers  90 ,  92  by an extent which allows a user to grasp its leading edge. As a consequence, the operator can pull on the pull tab  246  such that the exposed portion of the negative  236  and the corresponding portion or segment of the receiving sheet  205  will be brought into overlying relationship to one another. As the pull tab  246  emerges from the exit slot (not shown) of the camera, the hinge  234  will fold and be effective to pull the corresponding negative and receiving sheets through the pressure-applying rollers  90 ,  92 . Contemporaneously, displacement of the pull tab  246  effects displacement of the pod  274  such that the pod is burst thereby distributing its contents as described in the above embodiments. 
     As viewed in FIGS. 38-42, the leading end of the second pull tab member  248  is displaced rearwardly by reason of the sloped surface  258  on film stop member being raised by the pull tab  246  entering the pressure rollers. Once the first pull tab has been removed, the second assumes the place of the first. 
     The pulling action on the first pull tab continues until the first leader  206 , having the adhesive strip  210  is pulled from the take-up spool  239  and passes into the spreader assembly. At the same time, the second leader  208  with adhesive strip  216 , arrives at the spreader mechanism. Accordingly, both leaders with their adhesive strips  210 ,  212  are joined together. 
     It will be understood that the spring  220  urges the push rod  264  and thus the stop member downwardly as viewed in the drawings. The stop protrusions  262  will ride on the film surface until they cooperate with the apertures formed in the leader. As a result, the protrusions will register with the apertures in the leader and thus stop further displacement of the film assemblage located within the camera. Subsequent pulling by the operator will effect a separation at the perforation. 
     It will also be appreciated that return of the stop cam member to its original position will be effective to allow the ratchet  268  to reengage the ratchet wheel such that the take-up spool  239  can again be operated in frame-by-frame fashion. With the components in this arrangement, the operator will again commence exposure of the negative  220  in frame-by-frame fashion, thereby allowing the negative to be wound upon the take-up roll  239 . Since the first pull tab has been removed from the camera, the second pull tab is now positioned such that it engages the lower surface  260 . The second pull tab will remain in such position until it is engaged by the tab  230  on the second image forming subassembly  202 . It will be appreciated that the tab  230  will displace the pull tab outwardly through the camera&#39;s exit opening. During the outward displacement of the pull tab  248 , the stop  250  will be raised. Hence, the stop protrusions  262  will be lifted from the holes  214 ,  216  in the leaders, thereby allowing the film to be pulled through the spread rollers and outwardly from the camera. Of course, with the stop member being raised again by the pull tab  248  such action effects a disengagement of the ratchet. This frees the take-up roll for rotational movement in the opposite direction. With the second pull tab member having its leading edge portion protruding from the camera, an operator may commence a second pulling operation of the second assembly. In this second pulling operation, the operator withdraws the exposed second segment of exposed negative from the take-up roll such that it will be in superposed relationship with the receiving sheet  204  which is being simultaneously pulled from the supply roll  232 . Continued outward pulling on the pull tab  248  will cause the second pod to be displaced outwardly with the pull tab. Accordingly, the processing reagent will be spread in the manner noted above to effect the diffusion transfer process. Continued motion of the pull tab will be effective to withdraw the entire contents of the film assemblage with the second film image forming subassembly in the desired superposed relationship to form an integral film strip. After having described the last preceding embodiment, it is believed that the operation thereof is self-evident. 
     Although several specific and preferred methods and apparatus of the present invention have been shown and described above, other variations of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art. The scope of the invention is therefore not limited to the specific forms shown and described but rather is 20 indicated by the claims below.