Improvements in or relating to Apparatus for Exposing, Developing, and similarly Treating Photographic Plates and the like.
Year: 1897

page_text: Date of Application, 26th Oct., 1897
Complete Specification Left, 24th June, 1898-Accepted, 20th Aug., 1898
42
Improvements in or relating to Apparatus for Exposing, Developing,
and similarly Treating Photographic Plates and the like.
A communication from EMILE RIMAILHO, of Paris, France, Engineer.
I, ALFRED JULIUS Bours, of 111, Hatton Garden, in the County of Middlesex,
Chartered Patent Agent, do hereby declare the nature of this invention to be as
follows:-
The apparatus which forms the subject of this invention and which it is pro-
posed to call "
an hemerascope," whilst being a complete photographic camera, at
the same time enables the development of impressed plates or negatives to be
proceeded with in broad day light; both the plates and the operator being placed,
during this process, in exactly the same conditions as those prevailing in the
usual dark room.
The main characteristic function of the "hemerascope" being the development,
in the light of day, of impressed plates, I will first describe the means my corre-.
spondent has devised for carrying out this feature of the invention.
"
The arrangement employed for the purpose just stated consists of a celluloid or
similar bath, the movable bottom of which consists of a red glass, fitted in longi-
tudinal and transverse grooves, arranged alternately (or so as to
break joint"
with each other), so as to ensure the free circulation of air and fluid all around the
edges of the red glass, whilst effectually keeping out the light, whether natural
or artificial. The bath is surmounted by a head piece or top, fitted with a cock
or door, and serving for the insertion of the impressed negative to be developed.
On to the front part of the bath, there is secured a conical bellows, of skin or
leather, serving as a folding or collapsible photographic camera, and terminating
in a focussing instrument or glass, covered by a shutter which is operated from
outside by means of a bolt or in other suitable manner.
This arrangement is used in conjunction with a bath, adapted to receive the
developing liquid, and also with another bath which is provided for the reception
of the "fixing" liquid, while serving at the same time as a lid or cover for the
first-mentioned bath, this bath being of sufficient size to allow of the divers
separate parts of the apparatus being packed close together, along with a further
bath, termed the "observation bath," and provided with a cover, a bolt for locking
the apparatus in position, a handle for facilitating the manipulation thereof, and
a bottom closed in with a translucent glass.
The negative is developed by means of a hemerascope thus arranged, as
follows:
The plate to be developed after having been slipped into the first or developing
bath, by the combined operation of the cock and its head or top, and further if
certain special parts or devices presently to be described, is in that bath, effectu-
ally protected from the action of white light. The arrangement whereof the bath
forms part is then, along with the plate, and with the red glass turned downwards,

page_text: placed in the loose bath or basin, containing a sufficient quantity of developing or
image-disclosing fluid; which fluid thereupon finds its way into the interior of
the developing bath, through the alternating grooves (with which the walls and
edges of the bath are provided-as mentioned above all around the red glass,
and rises in the said bath until it completely covers the plate to be developed.
To watch the process of development or image-formation upon the plate, or to
change the composition of the developing fluid if necessary, the complete appa-
ratus including the plate, is lifted out of, and held over, the fluid in the loose
bath, until all the fluid contained in the developing bath has been drawn off
and has run out through the grooves; the plate all the while remaining confined
within the apparatus and sheltered from any light capable of affecting the image;
when the bath may be readily and conveniently changed or corrected, if desired,
of the negative examined and its stage of development ascertained.
In order that the image on the plate: may be properly inspected, without the
risk of any of the liquid thereon, dripping off, the apparatus containing such
plate is placed in the observation basin, the cover of which prevents any liquid,
which may, through defective draining, have remained behind in the developing
bath, from being spilt; the said basin being further provided with a bolt, whereby
the above-mentioned apparatus is secured in position; the red glass bottom of
such apparatus, being as a matter of course, adjusted exactly in coincidence with
the translucent glass forming the bottom of the observation bath, which may, by
means of its handle or knob be retained in the required position for the inspection
of the plate, whether in artificial or in natural light; the translucid bottom of
the bath being, for the purpose turned towards the source of such light. The
negative is examined by placing the eye in such a position as to shut out from it
all the light surrounding the eye-piece of the focussing instrument, of which the
shutter is then opened by the operation of the bolt, which need only be released
prior to withdrawing the eye from the eye-glass, when the shutter will automati-
cally close before any white light has been admitted through the focussing device.
From the foregoing remarks it will be understood that the negative is here dealt
with exactly as it usually is in a photographer's dark room, since the observer's
eye is placed in perfect darkness, while the negative plate is only perceived
through a transparency, the light merely passing through a single thickness of
red glass.
These manipulations are repeated until development has attained the desired
degree of intensity; after which the developing bath-containing part of the
complete apparatus as before is immersed in a bath containing the water for
washing the plate. When the negative has here been properly washed, it is re-
moved from the apparatus by hand and plunged in the fixing bath, without any
special preparation, as fixing may without any inconvenience or danger take place
in full day-light, provided the plate has previously been well washed.
The hemerascope of which the employment in developing negatives in day-light
has just been described, may be used in conjunction with ordinary cameras, pro-
vided that such cameras be supplemented by a bellows- or collapsible frame; which
frame is fixed on to the top of 'the developing bath-provided with the "cock "-
through an intermediate piece.
This collapsible frame consists of a flat rectangular box having a single side
aperture closed by means of a longitudinal trap which constitutes the bellows.
This box is provided with side grooves serving to guide and hold the plate or
negative to be inserted into it; an additional means of closing it being provided
by means of a wooden plug adapted to be inserted below; while the trap or
bellows is provided with a flap of velvet, corresponding to another flap of velvet,
with which the corresponding wall of the box or case is fitted internally; so that
these pieces of velvet, being firmly compressed by the trap, effect a perfectly tight
closing of the said case at the part where the sensitized plate is enclosed, and
throroughly protect it from exposure to the light..
As previously stated the collapsible frame is mounted upon the top piece of the

page_text: emerascope, provided with a cock by means of the intermediate piece consist
g of a rectangular strip or fillet, fitted with a downwardly projecting edge adapted
engage in a corresponding recess formed in the upper surface of the top or
ead of the developing bath; the said fillet being further provided with a longi-
udinal channel, having upward and downward extensions or flanges, whereby a
erfectly tight-fitting and light-excluding joint is secured both between one set
f flanges and the lower opening of the collapsible frame and between the other
et of flanges and the head or top piece of the developing bath. The longitudinal
hannel affords a passage for the plate and is so arranged as to correspond exactly
vith the longitudinal passage of the cock at the top, when such tock is open, so
hat the plate may very readily pass from its frame through the intermediate part
and the top, and thus by a downward movement, take up its proper position in
the bath.
To connect the intermediate part with the top of the bath such piece is provided
below with a shoulder or flange which accurately fits a recess or groove of corre-
sponding shape, formed in the top piece, while a fixed or stationary bolt or clip,
also arranged on the intermediate part, enters a corresponding groove in the top
piece. In coupling together the two parts, the intermediate part is first properly
adjusted over the top piece and then made to slide thereon longitudinally, in
the direction determined by the mutual engagement of the shoulder, and
recess and clip and groove, whereby the connection is completed; and this
coupling or connecting process is made to correspond with or to be assisted by,
the operation of the cock of the top piece in such a manner, that, when once the
intermediate part has been fixed on the top piece the two parts may not again be
disconnected unless the said cock is closed.
To this end, the outer key or handle, which serves to operate the cock, is formed
with a shoulder which, when the said handle is turned upwards, to open the cock
will press upon the stationary pin or clip of the intermediate part and thereby
effectually prevent such part from shifting or sliding longitudinally, as it would
have to do, to effect its release from the top piece.
The firm connection of the collapsible frame with the intermediate part is
furthermore ensured by a catch which, when the said frame is in position upon
the said intermediate part engages with a fixed stud with which such part is
provided for the purpose.
The result achieved by these arrangements is that after the plate has been
placed in the collapsible frame, closed by the trap-and-bellows, and when it is
desired to transfer it to the hemerascope, it is only necessary upon fixing the
intermediate part to the head piece and the collapsible frame to the said inter-
mediate part, to open the cock by raising the handle and then to draw out the
trap from the collapsible frame; which frame will then allow the plate contained
in it to slide through the head piece and drop into the bath properly arranged
underneath. Then the cock is turned off again; the intermediate part is dis-
connected from the head piece, and so is the collapsible frame from the inter-
mediate part and the plate lying in the bath of the hemerascope is in readiness
5 for the various operations already referred to above.
0
$5
All that is required therefore, where operations are conducted in the dark-
is to transfer the plates from the ordinary slides or frames to the collapsible
frames, here described, when by proceeding as hereinabove stated, such plates may
be developed in ordinary daylight.
A preferably, because more simple, method, however, is to combine with the
collapsible frame an exposure and plate changing frame, being a plain frame with
a curtain or blind, adapted to perform separately either of two functions to act as
an exposure frame in the camera, or to serve for the removal of exposed plates;
for which purpose it co-operates with a plate-changing box.
The aperture below through which the plates pass out of the exposure frame is.
with a view to the practical performance of the above-mentioned operations, com-
bined with a spring controlled trap opening by means of an outer bolt and closing

page_text: automatically; besides, this lower portion of the exposure frame is combined with
a coupling or locking device and with lateral fitting grooves designed to engage
with corresponding locking devices and bolts or catches provided on a movable
top on the plate-changing box-which top is mounted movably-through the
medium of a sliding blind serving as a movable lid for the plate changing box.
This plate changing box is internally provided with vertical grooves in which
the plates take up their position and are retained after exposure;
such grooves,
corresponding, each, to one of the divisions provided on the upper sides of the
box; in coincidence with each of which grooves there should be placed the edge
of the movable top, so that the plate passage, formed in the said movable top
and closed by a trap by operating an outer bolt or handle may come into exact
coincidence with the groove into which the plate is to be inserted.
Hence it follows that the box or case will also serve to collect or store up the
plates; the exposure frame combining with it in the manner just explained, so
as to enable the sensitive plates to be removed therefrom, to be exposed in the
camera, and to return them after exposure, i.e. when they are impressed and ready
for developing, to the same place which they occupied in the said box; all these
movements of the plates being performed without exposing the same to the action
of daylight.
The arrangement of the lower part of the exposure frame will, moreover, enable
the said frame, through the medium of the intermediate part, to be combined
cither with the collapsible frame, or with the developing bath of the hemerascope
direct.
If therefore there be any plates in the plate-changing case or box, or in the
collapsible frame, a plate may be brought up to the exposure frame properly
focussed in the camera available; and then after it has been exposed, brought by
the reverse process of operation, either into the plate-changing case or into the
collapsible frame; whence it will be removed in the same manner with a view
to its conveyance to the hemerascope when it is required to develop the image.
From what has been previously stated it will also be understood that the plate
may pass from the collapsible frames into the hemerascope direct or from the
plate changing box into the hemerascope through the medium of the exposure
frame, mounted upon the hemerascope with the assistance of the intermediate
part.
In order to render the arrangements which essentially characterize this inven-
tion more generally applicable, my correspondent has devised certain modifications
of those arrangements in which, as has been explained, the baths or basins are
horizontal, Now the said modifications enable vertical baths to be employed
instead, while also permitting the plates to be examined in day-light.
The modified arrangement comprises an outer bath for the developing or image-
disclosing liquid; within which bath is placed another inner bath the upper edge
of which closes the first-mentioned bath hermetically. The second or inner bath is
provided internally with vertical grooves into which the plates are to be inserted;
there being between its double bottom and the bottom of the outer bath a suffi-
cient space for the free circulation of the fluid, and the double bottom) is fitted
with alternating channels, or openings affording the fluid a free passage, so that
it may rise in the inner bath and cover the plate's inserted in the grooves of such
bath. The double bottom of the inner bath formed with alternating passages as
stated, enables the bath to be without any difficulty removed from the outer bath,
whenever it is desired to change, or to improve the composition of the fluid
therein, or when such a separation becomes necessary for other reasons; for the
alternating passages or channels, mentioned above, render it quite impossible for
any light to influence any of the plates, that the bath may contain.
The inner bath is closed by a sliding lid, upon which is arranged a movable
head-piece fitted with a cock, whereby the passage of the plates is effected, and
provided at one edge with divisions or graduations corresponding to
other numbered graduations worked on the corresponding fixed edge of the

page_text: outer bath; and such numbered graduations or divisions in their turn correspond,
each, to one of the vertical grooves between which the plates are held.
With the head-piece of the inner bath is combined the base of an observation
chamber which is superposed over the bath and so arranged as to enable the
plates to be removed from the said bath, examined, replaced in the bath if the
development be found deficient and finally removed when development is cont-
pleted; all of which manipulations are performed with the plates securely protected
from exposure to the light.
To this end the observation-chamber is so constructed at its base as to be
capable of engaging with the head piece of the developing bath by means of
grooves and catches; and it comprises, like the head, a cock with an aperture
corresponding to that of the cock and to the permanent passages of the head piece
and base in a line with the cock passages.
The two cocks are preferably turned by means of toothed or equivalent gearing,
whereby they are externally connected and coupled so that, by operating the one
key or handle of one cock, both cocks are turned together, and they, accordingly,
both open and close at the same time.
The gear-wheel of the lower cock engages moreover with a projection or tappet,
provided on the corresponding catch of the head piece so that the catch when in
position for locking in place the several parts which it connects, cannot be shifted
out of that position and will not therefore, allow those parts to be moved or
disconnected, unless the handle be operated and the cocks hermetically closed.
Above the base of the observation chamber there is left a rectangular empty
space for the reception of the plate just removed; in which space there is
arranged to operate a device fitted with side-hooks or catches, connected by an
upper cross-piece, to which is attached a rod which passes through the top of the
observation chamber; such top thus serving as a guide of said rod and compress-
ing a spring controlled bolt or locking arrangement which enables the rod to be
adjusted at a height corresponding to the exact position which the plate should
occupy in the chamber for the purpose of inspection.
Facing the plate whilst thus in position for inspection-there is arranged on
the front surface of the chamber a dark observation chamber which terminates
in a focussing device or finder fitted with an eye-piece and enabling the observer-
as before explained-to examine the plate completely in the dark; such device
being provided with a magnifying or spectacle glass which may be suited to the
eye-sight of any observer; and further it may be provided with an automatically
closing shutter, which opens when the observer puts his eye to the eye-piece, under
the action of an externally operated knob, which need only be released before the
observer withdraws from the said eye-piece, to ensure the immediate closure of the
shutter and the effectual protection of the plate, just examined, from any influ-
ence of the external light.
The same chamber has on its rear surface, in concidence with the plate and
the inspection device, a red glass, the object of which is to enable the plate to be
examined, through it without any risk of such plate being affected or injured.
It will also be seen from what has been stated above that in these modifications
of the essential arrangements the light only passes through one thickness of red
glass and that the observer's eye is placed in the most perfect darkness, i.e. as
before remarked, in the same condition as it would be in an ordinary dark room.
When the observation chamber has been arranged upon the complete bath the
following plan is adopted in removing the plate, to be observed, from the inner
bath and in placing it in the proper position for inspection in the said chamber.
The head-piece is so arranged that its aperture, for the passage of the plate,
corresponds with the grooves wherein the plate to be removed is contained; the
cocks are opened and the rod with its hooks is pressed right down, so that the
points of the hooks shall take up their position in the corresponding groove under
the lower edge of the plate to be withdrawn, and that the said edge of the plate
rests on the hook-ends or points. The rod is then lifted until it is arrested by

page_text: the catch on the top of the chamber. Now this point of stoppage (where the
hooks are also raised, along with the plate resting upon their points or ends) corre-
sponds to the exact position which the said plate should occupy for the purpose of
observation, viz., coinciding on one hand with the focussing instrument or lens,
and on the other, with the red glass; so that the examination of the plate may
now be proceeded with.
If it be found that the plate is insufficiently developed, such plate must be
re-placed in the bath. To this end it is only necessary to complete the upward
movement of the rod, moving it to the top of its travel, so as by means of studs
or stops, arranged in permanent positions in the observation chamber, in engage-
ment with the hooks-to induce a rearward movement of the said hooks, which
then become released from under the edge of the plate; with the result that the
plate, becomes disengaged and drops unimpeded into its proper groove in the bath,
after passing through the passages of the cocks.
The plate may thus be extracted, examined and put back in the bath as many
times as may be necessary, without any fear of its being affected by the external
light. When the developing operation is completed, the plate, located in the
chamber in readiness for observation, being supported by the hooks, is removed
thence and transferred to the washing and fixing baths.
The removal of the plate from the observation chamber is effected as follows:-
the cocks are closed, which enables the base of the chamber to be disconnected
from the head or top piece of the developing bath. Then, after the removal of
the observation chamber, its cock is opened, and, by completing the upward stroke
of the rod so as to cause the hooks to disengage, as previously explained, the
plate is allowed to descend into the washing bath.
In order to enable this developing apparatus to be employed in conjunction with
any given camera, the plates are removed from the camera in a dark room, as
will be understood and the said plates are placed in the inner bath; and if such
bath cannot receive them all, the remaining plates are each mounted in a bellows
or collapsible frame, constructed as described above; which bellows may, by the
aid of an intermediate piece, be fitted onto the head-piece of the bath, so as to
allow the plates, contained in the frames, to descend into the grooves then contain-
ing no plates.
For the special purpose of enabling the combined arrangements herein before
described to be used in conjunction with the well-known type of instantaneous
plate-changing cameras, it will preferable to provide such camera with a plate-
removing device, so that the plates may be transferred to a storage or collecting
box, and thence removed, along with their metal frames or sheaths, by a remover,
whence they have to be further transferred to the developing bath, in order to
be there subjected to the manipulations already described.
To admit of these several operations, the camera is constructed with a trans-
ferring device, having a trap, provided with a catch, and outward coupling
devices; such device being located on that side of the camera where the removal
of the plates may be readily effected.
The collecting box or case, adapted to combine with this device, comprises corre-
sponding parts such as a passage, a trap and catch, and coupling devices.
When this collector has been secured in the required position upon the camera,
the traps of the passages are opened, and upon turning over and inverting the
whole apparatus the plates are successively delivered from the camera into the
collector. When all the plates have thus been extracted, the traps of the passages
or channels are closed again, and the two arrangements are disconnected. The
next operation to be accomplished is to remove the plates from the box and to
transfer them to the developing bath, while at the same time taking the said
plates out of their ordinary metal frames or sheaths.
To this end a plate-remover is used, which consists of a rectangular box, the
empty interior of which serves to receive the. plate, removed along with its frame,
and it also contains the means for removing such plate from its frame.
The plate remover or extractor is provided at its base with a plate channel or

page_text: passage, with a closing trap, and comprises, laterally, retaining devices, adapted
to engage with corresponding parts of the collector or receptacle.
The inner mechanism of the extractor, devised for the removal of the plates
from their frames or sheaths, comprises an arrangement for locking such sheaths,
consisting of a movable spring-controlled wedge, arranged to press upon the sheath.
by the aid of another sliding wedge, which is operated from outside by means of
a knob, and of two lateral symmetrical rods with ties or cross-pieces and with an
operating rod actuated from the outside. These rods, being guided in or by aper-
tures provided for the purpose in a cross-piece, by the aid of their points, pass
through the corresponding turned-down edges of the sheath opposite the plate-
delivering side, through, apertures wherewith the said edge is provided so as to
force out the plate the sheath which is retained by the wedge or locking arrange-
ment above referred to.
As regards the passage of the plates from the collecting box or receptacle into
the plate extractor this operation is performed by means of a pushing device
arranged at the bottom of the said receptacle, corresponding to the passage in the
plate extractor which arrangement comprises a transverse plate the rear edge
of which is raised and which slides flush therewith in a groove formed in the
bottom surface of the said receptacle or box the said edge being adapted on
reaching the rearward terminal position of the transverse plate to engage in a
groove or recess of in the corresponding wall, so as not to interfere with the
descent of the plate to be removed as will be presently explained.
The transverse plate is operated from outside by means of a rod with which it
is provided for the purpose, and which passes through the corresponding wall of
the receptacle.
Upon the plate extractor having been connected with the box with a view to the
accomplishment of the operations just mentioned the course to be adopted in the
subsequent operation is as follows;-
After
The rod of the box and the rod of the plate extractor are both drawn out; the
plate lying at the bottom of the box then rests with its lower surface upon
the transverse plate attached to the rod, the edge of such plate pressing upon the
combined plate-edge and sheath. Now after opening the traps the rod is pushed
in whereby the sheath and plate are caused to move by the transverse plate. Such
plate and sheath whilst still forming one connected body then traverses the pas-
sages and enters the corresponding space of the plate extractor or remover.
this the sheath is locked in position by pushing in the knob of the locking
mechanism; and then, the traps having first been closed the extractor is dis-
connected from the box and placed upon the head-piece of the bath.
Now the
cock and trap are opened and upon pressing in the rod the plate is subjected to a
strain by the operation of the lateral rods and thus released from its sheath such
sheath continuing secure in its place under the action of the locking device. The
plate accordingly descends and enters the grooves in the bath wherein it undergoes
the diverse operation mentioned above, the intermediate cock being closed; the
extractor being disconnected from the head piece; the rod being fully drawn out
so as to release the lateral rods from the apertures of the sheath and the locking
knob being restored to the "unlocked" position in which the edges of the plate
sheath are free. This sheath then is released and may be removed from the plate
extractor by the aid of which as before stated all the plates contained in the
storage receptacle may all be thus successively transferred to the developing
bath.
All the successive operations are reproduced over and over again in the manner
hereinbefore described as will be readily understood, and the plates in each case
remain fully protected from any light that might injure them.
It may be added by way of conclusion that the hemerascope herein fully de-
scribed, both as regards its construction and operation as a whole and in all its
details and modifications may be utilised as a photographic camera, merely re-
quiring in that case the following alteration;-The red glass is removed a frame

page_text: being substituted for it, with frame consisting of two parts which fit each other and
are securely joined together and being provided with springs which serve to retain the
plate in its properly adjusted position in the camera. The focussing device is
removed and replaced by an objective or lens fitted with a shutter of any desired
construction. With these few alterations a serviceable camera will be readily
obtained.
A sensitized plate is then dropped into position in the "developing" bath the
'collapsible frame containing it, being mounted upon the head or top-piece and the
cock if such piece is opened. When the plate has been exposed it is re-inserted
into its collapsible frame while a fresh plate cames to occupy its place in the bath.
When the development of the negatives is to be effected the camera must be
re-converted into a developing apparatus.
The bath is provided with conveniently arranged bosses of any suitable shape
on its edge for the reception of a fitting provided with a removable nut whereby
it may be mounted upon a stand-either vertically or horizontally and also with a
focussing instrument or finder.
The objective may be mounted in a screw-threaded jacket or so
as to be
capable of sliding in its mount so as to avoid the necessity of focussing on a
ground glass in the camera; but where focussing is a desideratum, it will be
understood that it will only be necessary to substitute a ground glass plate for the
existing transparent glass and temporarily to remove the bottom plate.
By the employment of intermediate frames the same apparatus may be ren-
dered serviceable for developing plates of varying dimensions; and it may also be
fitted for the development of films" by the addition of two lateral rollers for
winding and unwinding the film band as it passes along in front of the red glass.
Dated this 26th day of October 1897.
BOULT & WADE,
Agents for the Applicant.
Improvements in or relating to Apparatus for Exposing, Developing,
and similarly Treating Photographic Plates and the like.
A communication from EMILE RIMAILHO, of Paris, France, Engineer.
I, ALFRED JULIUS BOULT, of 111, Hatton Garden, in the County of Middlesex,
Chartered Patent Agent, do hereby declare the nature of this invention and in
what manner the same is to be performed, to be particularly described and ascer-
tained in and by the following statement;.
-
The apparatus which forms the subject of this invention and which it is proposed
to call
an hemerascope," is represented, both in its complete form and in all its
details, in the accompanying drawings, with reference to which it is hereinafter
described, whilst being a complete photographic camera, this apparatus at the same
time enables the development of impressed plates or negatives to be proceeded with
in broad day-light; the plates and the operator being placed, during this process,
in exactly the same conditions as those prevailing in the usual dark room.
The main characteristic function of "the hemerascope" being the development,
in the light of day, of impressed plates, I will first describe the means devised for
carrying out this feature of the invention.
In the accompanying drawings
Figure 1 is a horizontal sectional view of Figure 2.

page_text: this invention.
Figure 3 is a perspective view of the receptacle for the "fixing" liquid.
Figure 4 is a like view of the frame Q presently described.
Figure 5 is a vertical sectional view of the frame Q.
Figures 6 and 7 are a perspective view and sectional view respectively, of the
piece R.
Figure 8 is a perspective view of the camera arranged to receive the frame Q
and piece R.
Figure 8 is a detail perspective view hereinafter referred to.
Figures 9 and 10 are perspective views of plate holders.
Figure 11 is a perspective view of one of the bath holders and contiguous parts.
Figures 12 and 13 are vertical sectional views at right angles to each other of a
modified apparatus.
Figures 14 and 15 are perspective views of frame and piece 05 of modified
construction.
Figure 16 is a perspective view of a well known camera with which part of the
invention is adapted for use.
Figure 17 is a perspective view of a storage box.
Figure 18 is a sectional view of a plate remover and
Figure 19 a perspective view of part of the said remover.
As will be seen by referring to Figures 1 and 2 of the drawings-being a verti-
cal sectional elevation and a complete perspective view, respectively, the arrange-
ment employed for the purpose just stated consists of a celluloid or similar bath A,
the movable bottom of which consists of a red glass B, fitted in longitudinal and
transverse grooves C, arranged alternately (or so as to "break joint" with each
other), so as to ensure the free circulation of air and fluid all around the edges
of the red glass B, whilst effectually keeping out the light, whether natural or
artificial. The bath A is surmounted by a head piece or top D, fitted with a
cock"
or door E, and serving for the insertion of the impressed or exposed
negative F to be developed.
On the front part of the bath A, there is secured a conical bellows G, of skin
or leather serving as a folding or collapsible photographic camera, and terminat-
ing in a focussing instrument or glass H, covered by a shutter which is operated
from outside by means of a bolt I or in other suitable manner.
This arrangement is used in conjunction with a separate bath J adapted to
receive the developing liquid, and also with another bath K (Figure 3) which is
provided for the reception of the "fixing" liquid, while serving at the same time
as a lid or cover for the first mentioned bath J; this bath being of sufficient size
to allow of the divers separate parts of the apparatus being packed close together
along with a further bath, termed "the observation bath" L (Figure 2) and pro-
vided with a cover M, a bolt or catch N for locking the apparatus in position, a
handle for facilitating the manipulation thereof, and a bottom closed in with
a translucent glass P.
The negative is developed by means of a hemerascope thus arranged as
follows:--
The plate F to be developed after having been slipped into the bath A by the
combined operation of the cock D and its head or top E and further of certain
special parts or devices presently to be described, is in that bath A effectually
protected from the action of white light. The arrangement whereof the bath A
forms part is then along with the plate and with the red glass B turned down-
wards, placed in the bath or basin J, containing a sufficient quantity of developing
or image disclosing fluid; which fluid thereupon finds its way into the interior
of the developing bath A through the alternating grooves C with which the walls
and edges of the bath A are provided, as mentioned above, all round the red
glass B and rises in the said bath A. until it completely covers the plate F to be
developed.

page_text: To watch the process of development or image-formation upon the plate F or to
change the composition of the developing fluid if necessary, the complete appa-
ratus including the plate is lifted out of and held over the fluid in the same
bath until all the fluid contained in the developing bath A. has been drawn off
and has run out-through the grooves C; the plate all the while remaining con-
fined within the apparatus and sheltered from any light capable of affecting the
image when the bath may be readily and conveniently changed or corrected, if
desired, or the negative F examined and its stage of development ascertained.
In order that the image of the plate F may be properly inspected, without the
risk of any of the liquid thereon dripping off, the apparatus containing such plate
is (as shown in Figure 2) placed in the basin L the cover M of which prevents any
liquid which may through defective draining have remained behind in the
bath A, from being spilt; the said basin L being further provided with a bolt N
whereby the above mentioned apparatus is secured in position: the red glass
bottom of such apparatus being as a matter of course adjusted exactly in coinci-
dence with the translucent glass F forming the bottom of the bath L which may
by means of its handle or knob O be retained in the required position for the
inspection of the plate F whether in artificial or in natural light; the translucent
bottom P of the bath L being for the purpose turned towards the source of such
light. The negative is examined by placing the eye in such position as to shut
out from it all the light surrounding the eyepiece of the focussing instrument H
of which the shutter is then opened by the operation of the bolt or catch I which
need only be released prior to withdrawing the eye from the eye glass when the
shutter will automatically close before any white light has been admitted through
the focussing device.
From the foregoing remarks it will be understood that the negative is here dealt
with exactly as it usually is in a photographer's dark room, since the observer's
eye is placed in perfect darkness, while the negative plate is only perceived
through a transparency, the light merely passing through a single thickness of
red glass.
These manipulations are repeated until development has attained the desired
degree of intensity; after which the bath A-still part of the complete apparatus
as before is immersed in a bath containing the water for washing the plate.
When the negative E has here been properly washed, it is removed from the appa-
ratus by hand and plunged in the fixing bath without any special preparation as
fixing may without any inconvenience or danger take place in full day-light pro-
vided the plate has been previously well washed.
The hemerascope, of which the employment in developing negatives in day-
light has just been described may be used in conjunction with ordinary cameras
provided that such cameras be supplemented by a collapsible frame such as is
shown at Q in the general perspective view Fig. 4 and in the vertical section
Fig. 5; which frame is fixed on to the top of the bath A provided with the
"cock" D-through an intermediate piece R shown in the general perspective
view Fig. 6 and in the vertical section Fig. 7.
This collapsible frame Q consists of a flat rectangular box A¹ having a single
side aperture B', closed by means of a longitudinal trap C₁ which constitutes the
diaphragm, this box is provided with side grooves serving to guide and hold the
plate or negative to be inserted into it, an additional means of closing it being
provided by means of a wooden plug D¹ adapted to be inserted below at E¹, while
the trap C is provided with a flap of velvet F¹ corresponding to another flap of
velvet G¹, with which the corresponding wall of the box or case A¹ is fitted inter-
nally; so that these pieces of velvet being firmly compressed by the trap C₁
effect a perfectly tight closing of the said case A¹ at the part where the sensitized
plate is enclosed, and thoroughly protect it from exposure to the light.
As previously stated the collapsible frame Q is mounted upon the top-piece D
of the hemerascope, provided with a cock E as shown in the general perspective
view Fig. 8 by means of the part R constructed as shown in Figs. 6 and 7 and

page_text: consisting of a rectangular strip or fillet I¹ fitted with a downwardly projecting
edge J adapted to engage in a corresponding recess K' formed in the upper sur-
face of the top or head D of the bath A; the said fillet I being further provided
with a longitudinal channel L' having upward br downward extensions or
flanges M¹ N¹ whereby a perfectly tight fitting and light excluding joint is secured
both between one set of flanges M and the lower opening of the collapsible
frame Q and between the other set of flanges N1 and the head or top piece D of
the bath A. The longitudinal channel E affords a passage for the plate and is
so arranged as to correspond exactly with the longitudinal passage of the cock E
at the top D, when such cock is open so that the plate may very readily pass
from its frame Q through the intermediate part R and the top D and thus by a
downward movement, take up its proper position in the bath A.
To connect the part R with the top D of the bath A such piece R is pro-
vided below with a shoulder or flange O which accurately fits a recess or groove P¹
of corresponding shape formed in the top piece D while a fixed or stationary bolt
or clip also arranged on the part R enters a corresponding groove R in the
top-piece I). In coupling together the two parts R and D the parts R is first
properly adjusted over 1 and then made to slide longitudinally in the direction
determined by the mutual engagement of the shoulder and recess and clip and
groove whereby the connection is completed and this coupling or connecting
process is made to correspond with or to be assisted by the operation of the cock E
of the top piece D in such a manner that when once the part R has been fixed on
the top piece D the two parts may not again be disconnected unless the said
cock E is closed.
To this end the outer key or handle S¹ which serves to operate the cock E is
formed with a shoulder T which when the said handle S₁ is turned upwards to
open the cock E'will press the stationary pin or clip Q' of the part R and
thereby effectually prevent such part from shifting or sliding longitudinally as it
would have to do to effect its release from the top piece D.
The firm connection of the collapsible frame Q with the intermediate part R
is furthermore ensured by a catch U which, when the said frame is in position
upon the said intermediate part R engages with a fixed stud V1 with which such
art R is provided for the purpose.
The result achieved by these arrangements is that after the plate has been
placed in the collapsible frame Q closed by the trap and bellows and when it
is desired to transfer it to the hemerascope arranged as illustrated in Figure 8, it
is only necessary-upon fixing the intermediate part R to the head-piece D and
the collapsible frame Q to the said intermediate part R.-to open the cock E by
raising the handle S and then to draw out the trap C¹ from the collapsible
frame Q; which frame will then allow the plate contained in it to slide through
the head-piece D, and drop into the bath properly arranged underneath. Then
the cock E is turned off again; the intermediate part I is disconnected from the
head piece D, and so is the collapsible frame Q from the intermediate part R;
and the plate lying in the bath A if the hemerascope is in readiness for the
various operations already referred to above.
All that is required therefore-where operations are conducted in the dark-
is to transfer the plates from the ordinary slides or frames to the collapsible
frames Q here described. When by proceeding as hereinabove stated such plate
may be developed in the ordinary daylight.
A preferable, because more simple, method, however, is to combine with the
collapsible frame Q an exposure and plate changing frame such as is shown in
Figure 9, being a plain frame with a curtain or blind, adapted to perform sepa-
rately either of two functions; to act as an exposure frame in the camera, or to
serve for the removal of exposed plates; for which purpose it co-operates with
plate-changing box B³ Figure 10.
"
The operation below, through which the plates pass, out of the exposure
frame A3, is with a view to the practical performance of the above-mentioned

page_text: operations, combined with a spring controlled trap C opening by means of an
outer bolt D2 and closing automatically; besides, this lower portion of the ex-
posure frame A2 is combined with a coupling or locking device E2 and with lateral
fitting grooves 12G2 designed to engage with corresponding locking devices .H³
and bolts or catches 12 J2 provided on a movable top K on the plate changing box
which top is mounted movably, through the medium of a sliding blind L serving
as a movable lid for the plate changing box B2.
::
This plate changing box B is internally provided with vertical grooves in which
the plates take up their position and are retained after exposure; such grooves
corresponding, each, to one of the divisions, provided on the upper sides of the
-box B in coincidence with each of which grooves there should be placed the
edge of the movable top K2 so that the plate passage H2 formed in the said
movable top and closed by a trap by operating an outer bolt or handle N2 may
come into exact coincidence with the groove into which the plate is to be in-
serted.
Hence it follows that the box or case B3 will also serve to collect or store up the
plates; the exposure frame A2 combining with it in the manner just explained so
as to enable the sensitive plates to be removed therefrom to be exposed in the
camera, and to return them after exposure i.e. when they are impressed and ready
for developing to the same place which they occupied in the said box B2: ail
these movements of the plates being performed without exposing the same to the
action of day-light.
The arrangement of the lower part of the frame A will moreover enable the
said frame through the medium of the part R to be combined either with the
collapsible frame Q or with the bath A of the hemerascope direct.
If therefore there be any plates in the plate changing case or box B² or in the
collapsible frame Q a plate may be brought up to the exposure frame A2 properly
focussed in the camera available; and then after it has been exposed brought back
by the reverse process of operation either into the plate-changing case B² or into
the collapsible frame Q; whence it will be removed in the same manner with a
view to its conveyance to the hemerascope when it is required to develop the
image.
From what has been previously stated it will also be understood that the plate
may pass from the collapsible frames Q into the hemerascope direct or from the
plate changing box B2 into the hemerascope through the medium of the exposure
frame A² mounted upon the hemerascope with the assistance of the intermediate
part R.
In order to render the arrangements which essentially characterize the inven-
tion more generally applicable, my correspondent has devised certain modifications
of those arrangements in which as has been explained the baths or basins are
horizontal. Now the said modifications enable vertical baths to be employed
instead, while also permitting the plates to be examined in day-light. These
modifications whether considered as a whole or in their details are fully illustrated
in Figures 11, 12 and 13.
As will be seen by referring to these figures the modified arrangement comprises
a bath A³ for the developing or image disclosing liquid; within which bath is
placed another inner bath B³ the upper edge C3 of which closes the first mentioned
bath A hermetically the second bath B is provided internally with vertical
grooves. D³ into which the plates F are to be inserted; there being between its
double bottom E3 and the bottom of the bath A3 a sufficient space for the free
circulation of the fluid and the double bottom is fitted with alternating channels
or openings F³ affording the fluid a free passage so that it may rise in the bath B³
and cover the plates inserted in the grooves D3 of such bath. The doublo
bottom E3 of the bath B³ formed with alternating passages F3 as stated, enable
the bath B2 to be without any difficulty removed from the bath A³ whenever it is
desired to change or to improve the composition of the fluid therein or when such
a separation becomes necessary for other reasons; for the alternating passages or

page_text: channels F3 mentioned above render it quite impossible for any light to influence
any of the plates F that the bath B3 may contain.
The bath B³ is closed by a sliding lid G³ upon which is arranged a movable
head piece H³ fitted with a cock 13 whereby the passage of the plates is effected
and provided at one edge with divisions or graduations corresponding to other.
numbered graduations marked on the corresponding fixed edge of the bath A³;
and such numbered graduations or divisions in their turn correspond each to one
of the vertical grooves 13 between which the plates are held.
With the head piece H3 of the bath B is combined the base J³ of an observation
chamber J which is superposed over the bath B3 and so arranged as to enable the
plates to be removed from the said bath examined replaced in the bath if the
development be found deficient and finally removed when development is com-
pleted; all of which manipulations are performed with the plates securely pro-
tected from exposure to the light.
To this end the observation chamber J4 is so constructed at its base J³ as to be
capable of engaging with the head piece H³ of the developing bath by means of
grooves K³ and catches K*; and it comprises like the head H³ a cock L³ with an
aperture corresponding to that of the cock I³ and to the permanent passages M³
of the head piece H3 and base J³ in a line with the cock-p
-passages.
The two cocks L³ and I³ are preferably turned by means of toothed or equivalent
gearing N³ and 03 whereby they are externally connected and coupled so that by
operating the one key or handle P³ of one cock I both cocks are turned together
and they accordingly both open and close at the same time.
The gear-wheel 03 of the cock 13 engages moreover with a projection or tappet Q³
provided on the corresponding catch K of the head piece H³ so that the catch
when in position for locking in place the several parts which it connects cannot
be shifted out of that position and will not therefore allow those parts to be
moved or disconnected unless the handle P³ be operated and the cocks L² I³
hermetically closed.
Above the base of the observation chamber J there is left a rectangular empty
space A for the reception of the plate F just removed; in which space there is
arranged to operate a device fitted with side-hooks or catches 13* C* connected by an
upper cross piece D' to which is attached a rod E which passes through the top F*
of the chamber J' such top thus serving as a guide for said rod and comprising
a spring controlled bolt or locking arrangement G which enables the rod to be
adjusted at a height corresponding to the exact position which the plate F should
occupy in the chamber J' for the purpose of inspection.
Facing the plate F whilst thus in position for inspection—there is arranged on
the front surface of the chamber J a dark observation chamber H which ter-
minates in a focussing device or finder I fitted with an eye-piece K³ and enabling
the observer as before explained to examine the plate completely in the dark;
such device I' being provided with a magnifying or spectacle glass which may be
suited to the eye-sight of any observer; and further it may be provided with an
automatically closing shutter which opens when the observer puts his eye to the
eye piece K5, under the action of an externally operated knob L which need only
be released before the observer withdraws from the said eye piece K³ to ensure the
immediate closure of the shutter and the effectual protection of the plate, just
examined from any influences of the external light.
The same chamber J has on its rear surface in coincidence with the plate F
and the inspection device H* a red glass M the object of which is to enable the
plate to be examined through it without any risk of such plate being affected
or injured by "white" light.
It will also be seen from what has been stated above that in these modifications
of the essential arrangements the light only passes through one thickness of red
glass and that the observer's eye is placed in the most perfect darkness, i.e., as
before remarked, in the same condition as it would be in an ordinary dark room.
When the observation chamber J' has been arranged upon the complete bath A³

page_text: as shown in Figures 12 and 13 the following procedure is adopted in removing the
plate F, to be observed from the inner bath B and in placing it in the proper
position for inspection in the said chamber J*.
The head-piece H³ is so arranged that its aperture M³, for the passage of the
plate, corresponds with the grooves D3 wherein the plate to be removed is con-
tained;
the cocks I3 and L' are opened and the rod E with its hooks BC is pressed
right down, so that the points of the hooks shall take up their position in the
corresponding groove B³ under the lower edge of the plate F to be withdrawn,
and that the said edge of the plate rests on the hook-ends or points. The rod F
is then lifted until it is arrested by the catch G on the top of the chamber. Now
this point of stoppage (where the hooks B C are also raised, along with the
plate resting upon their points or ends) corresponds to the exact position which said
plate should occupy for the purpose of observation, viz., coinciding on one hand
with the focussing instrument or lens I, and on the other, with the red glass M*;
so that the examination of the plate may now be proceeded with.
If it be found that the plate F is insufficiently developed, such plate must be
replaced in the bath. To this end it is only necessary to complete the upward
movement of the rod E, moving it to the top of its travel so as-by means of
the lower studs or stops NN5 arranged in permanent positions in the observation
chamber J4, in engagement with the hooks BC-to induce a rearward movement
of the said hooks, which then become released from under the edge of the
plate F; with the result that the plate F becomes disengaged and drops un-
impeded into its proper groove in the bath B³, after passing through the passages
of the cocks I³ L³ and M³.
The plate F may thus be extracted, examined and put back in the bath as many
times as may be necessary, without any fear of its being affected by the external
light. When the developing operation is completed, the plate F, located in the
chamber Jin readiness for observation, being supported by the hooks BC, is
removed thence and transferred to the washing and fixing baths.
The removal of the plate from the observation chamber J is effected as follows:
the cocks I³ L³ are closed, which enables the base J³ of the chamber J to be dis-
connected from the head or top piece H3 of the developing bath. Then, after the
removal of the observation chamber J4, its cock L³ is opened, and, by completing
the upward stroke of the rod E, so as to cause the hooks BC to disengage, as
previously explained, the plate F is allowed to descend into the washing bath.
In order to enable this developing apparatus to be employed in conjunction with
any given camera, the plates are removed from the camera-in a dark room, as
will be understood-and the said plates are placed in the inner bath 13 and if
such bath cannot receive them all, the remaining plates are each mounted in a
bellows or collapsible frame (such as Q Figure 14), constructed as described above:
which bellows may, by the aid of an intermediate piece 05, be fitted on to the
head-piece H³ of the bath B³, so as to allow the plates, contained in the frames Q
to descend into the grooves D³, then containing no plates.
For the special purpose of enabling the combined arrangements hereinabove
described to be used in conjunction with well-known types of instantaneous plate-
changing cameras such as the Carpenter's twin lens camera, for example (this
form of camera being, by way of illustration and example shown in a general per-
spective view in Fig. 16), it will be preferable to provide such camera with a plate-
removing device, so that the plates may be transferred to a storage or collecting
box A6, Fig. 17, and thence removed, along with their metal frame or sheaths, by
a remover such as B6 Figs. 18, 19; whence they have to be further transferred to
the developing bath B³, in order to be there subjected to the manipulations already
described.
To admit of these several operations, the twin-lens camera is constructed with a
transferring device such as C6 having a trap, provided with a catch D, and out-
ward coupling devices E6 F; such device being located on that side of the camera
where the removal of the plates may be readily effected.

page_text: The collecting box or case A6, adapted to combine with this device, comprises
corresponding parts such as a passage G6, a trap and catch H6, and coupling
devices 16 J6
When this collector A6 has been secured in the required position upon the
camera, the traps of the passages C6 G6 are opened, and upon turning over and
inverting the whole apparatus the plates are successively delivered from the
camera into the collector A6. When all the plates have thus been extracted, the
traps of the passages or channels CG are closed again, and the two arrangements
are disconnected. The next operation to be accomplished is to remove the plates F
from the box A6 and to transfer them to the developing bath, while at the same
time taking the said plates out of their ordinary metal frames or sheaths L6.
To this end a plate-remover shown in Figures 18 and 19 should be used, which
consists of a rectangular box Me, the empty interior of which serves to receive the
plate F, removed from A along with its frame, and it also contains the means
for removing such plate from its frame.
The plate remover or extractor B6 is provided at its base with a plate channel
or passage Ne, with a closing trap 06, and comprises, laterally, retaining devices,
such as PQ, adapted to engage with corresponding parts of the collector or re-
ceptacle Aº.
The inner mechanism of the extractor B6, devised for the removal of the plates
from their frames or sheaths, comprises an arrangement for locking such sheaths
consisting of a movable spring-controlled wedge A7, arranged to press upon the
sheath by the aid of another sliding wedge, B', which is operated from outside
by means of a knob C7, and of two lateral symmetrical rods D7 with ties or cross-
pieces E7 and with an operating rod F7 actuated from the outside. These rods,
being guided in or by apertures provided for the purpose in a cross-piece G7, by
the aid of their points, pass through the corresponding turned-down edges H
of the sheath, opposite the plate-delivering side 17 through apertures wherewith
the said edge is provided, so as to force out the plate, the sheath of which is
retained by the wedge or locking arrangement above referred to.
As regards the passage of the plates from the collecting box or receptacle A6 into
the plate-extractor 136, this operation is performed by means of a pushing device
arranged at the bottom of the said receptacle A6, corresponding to the passage Go
in the plate extractor, which arrangement comprises a transverse plate J7, the
rear edge K7 of which is raised, and which slides, flush therewith, in a groove L7
formed in the bottom surface of the said receptacle or box A6, the said edge K.
being adapted, on reaching the rearward terminal position of the transverse
plate J, to engage in a groove or recess M7 in the corresponding wall, so as not
to interfere with the descent of the plates to be removed, as will be presently
explained.
The transverse plate J7 is operated from outside by means of a rod N7, with
which it is provided for the purpose, and which passes through the corresponding
wall of the receptacle A6.
Upon the plate extractor B6 having been connected with the box A with a view
to the accomplishment of the operations just mentioned, the course to be adopted
in the subsequent operations is as follows:-
The rod N of the box A6 and the rod F7 of the plate extractor B6 are both
drawn out; the plate F lying at the bottom of the box A then rests with its
lower surface upon the transverse plate J' attached to the rod, the edge K7 of such
plate pressing upon the combined plate-edge and sheath. Now after opening
the traps HO, the rod N is pushed in, whereby the sheath and plates are caused
to move by the transverse plate J. Such plate and sheath, whilst still forming
one connected body, then traverses the passages G6 N6, and enters the correspond-
ing space 07 of the plate-extractor or remover B6. After this the sheath is locked
in position by pushing in the knob C of the locking mechanism; and then, the
traps HG having first been closed, the extractor B is disconnected from the
box A and placed upon the head-piece H³ of the bath 13. Now the cock 13 and

page_text: trap 06 are opened, and, upon pressing in the rod F7, the plate is subjected to a
strain by the operation of the lateral rods D7, and thus released from its sheath;
such sheath continuing secure in its place under the action of the locking device.
The plate, accordingly, descends and enters the grooves D3 in the bath B³, wherein
it undergoes the diverse operations mentioned above, the intermediate cock 13
being closed; the extractor 136 being disconnected from the head piece H³ the
rod being fully drawn out, so as to release the lateral rod D from the apertures
of the sheath; and the locking knob C7 being restored to the "unlocked" position
in which the edges of the plate-sheath are free. This sheath, then, is released and
may be removed from the plate-extractor, by the aid of which, as before stated,
all the plates contained in the storage receptacle A6 may all be thus successively
transferred to the developing bath.
All these successive operations are reproduced over and over again in the
manner hereinabove described, as will be readily understood, and the plates, in
each case, remain fully protected from any light that might injure them.
I will add, by way of conclusion, that the hemerascope herein fully described,
both as regards its construction and operation as a whole and in all its details
and modifications, may especially when arranged as illustrated in Figure 8,-
be utilised as a photographic camera, merely requiring, in that case, the following
alteration:
-
The red glass is removed, a frame As, Figure 8, being substituted for it, such
frame consisting of two parts A9 A10, which fit each other and are securely joined
together, and being provided with springs, such as A" A12 which serve to retain
the plate in its properly adjusted position in the camera. The focussing device His
removed, and replaced by an objective or lens 19 fitted with a shutter of any
desired construction, with these few alterations a serviceable camera will be readily
obtained.
A sensitized plate is then dropped into position in the " developing" bath A,
the collapsible frame Q, containing it, being mounted upon the hand or top-
piece D, and the cock E of such piece D is opened. When the plate has been
exposed, it is reinserted into its collapsible frame Q, while a fresh plate comes to
occupy its place in the bath.
When the development of the negatives is to be effected, the camera must be
re-converted into a developing apparatus, i.e., the arrangement shown in Figures 1
and 2.
The bath A is provided with conveniently arranged bosses C (Fig. 8) of any
suitable shape on its edge, for the reception of a fitting, provided with a removable
nut, whereby it may be mounted upon a stand-either vertically or horizontally-
and also with a focussing instrument or finder.
The objective may be mounted in a screw-threaded jacket, or so as to be
capable of sliding in its mount so as to avoid the necessity of focussing on a
ground glass in the camera, but where focussing is a desideratum, it will be
understood that it will only be necessary to substitute a ground glass plate for the
existing transparent glass and temporarily to remove the bottom plate.
By the employment of intermediate frames, the same apparatus may be ren-
dered serviceable for developing plates of varying dimensions; and it may also be
fitted for the development of "films" by the addition of two lateral rollers for
winding and unwinding the film-band as it passes along in front of the red glass.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of the said inven-
tion, as communicated to me by my foreign correspondent, and in what manner
the same is to be performed, I declare that what I claim is:
1. Apparatus adapted for use either as a photographic camera or as a device
for developing and treating exposed sensitised plates in ordinary light, comprising
a dark chamber such as G provided with a lens and with a bath provided with a
movable bottom consisting of a red glass fitted in grooves arranged alternately so
as to admit of the free circulation of both air and liquid, whilst shutting out

page_text: ordinary light from the apparatus; the said bath being provided with a head
piece having a cock as E for the admission of the plates to be treated and adapted
for purposes of development inspection and fixing to combine with open baths for
the developing and fixing fluids and with a further bath serving to facilitate
inspection the developing and fixing baths being so formed that one forms a
cover for the other for the purpose of enclosing and storing the various parts of
the apparatus whilst the third bath is provided with a cover a catch a handle and
a translucent bottom so as to enable the plate in process of treatment to be in-
spected substantially as described.
2. In apparatus of the character described for use in conjunction with an
ordinary camera, a frame as Q with a closing trap and fitted with a terminal
plug which completes the closing device the said frame which is adapted to receive
plates being mounted upon the head-piece of a bath as A carrying a cock with
the interposition of an intermediate piece as R provided with a channel L¹ to
afford a passage for the plate in process of treatment without risk of exposing such
plate to the action of light, the said piece R being secured in place by means of a
coupling device co-operating with the cock in such a manner that the piece R
cannot be disconnected from the head until after the cock has been closed sub-
stantially as described.
3. In apparatus of the character described means for enabling plates to be trans-
ferred from one apparatus to another in ordinary light comprising in combination
with a frame as Q an exposure and plate-changing frame A combined with a
plate-changing box B³ provided with a top mounted upon the sliding cover the
said changing box serving as a plate-receptacle while the changing frame is con-
nected with it in order to admit of the sensitised plates being removed therefrom,
exposed in the camera and returned to the said box after exposure in readiness
for developing whence they may be removed for subsequent treatment substan-
tially as described.
4. In apparatus of the character described in conjunction with a photographic
camera a vertical developing bath as A³ for the developing liquid containing within
it another bath as B3 provided with internal grooves for the reception of the plates
to be treated and with a bottom E3 allowing the free circulation of the liquid
between it and the bottom of the outer bath and formed with alternate passages 13,
the upper edge of the inner bath serving to close the outer bath said bath being
formed with a sliding cover provided with a head having a cock I³ which serves to
afford a passage to the plates which may be delivered from a frame Q and com-
bining with said head by means of a junction piece as 0³, a dark chamber J' for
the inspection of the plates having a base J³ fitted with a cock L³ adapted to
co-operate with the cock Is also coupled to said head substantially as and for the
purpose described.
5. In apparatus of the character described means for effecting the transfer of
the plates from the developing bath to the inspection chamber and vice versa com
prising hooks within such chamber controlled from outside by means of a rod E
such hooks being adapted to descend to the bottom of the developing bath and by
means of their points engage with the lower edge of the plate which it is desired
to raise into position for inspection such position of the plate being ensured by a
spring controlled bolt G engaging with a corresponding notch in the rod E* while
the release of the plate is effected by fully drawing up the rod E so as to cause
stops in the inspection chamber to act upon the hooks and release the plate which
they had till then supported substantially as described.
6. In apparatus of the character described means for combining the developing
and similar devices with a rapid plate-changing camera comprising a magazine
as Aº combined with a plate-conveying device C fitted with a trap D and with
external coupling devices and adapted to be supported in the proper position by
the camera with a view to removing the plates from such camera in ordinary light
and a plate remover as B6 provided with inner frame-locking and plate-releasing
mechanism comprising pusher rods the transfer of the plates from the magazine

page_text: to the remover being effected by the operation of a pusher carried in the bottom
of the magazine the said extractor thus seeming to effect the successive transfer
of all the plates to the developing bath through a head-piece as H³ substantially
as described.
7. In apparatus of the character described means for converting the developing
apparatus into a camera consisting of a plate A8 in substitution for the red glass
and an objective in place of the focussing device and a bellows-frame as Q adapted
to contain a sensitive plate mounted upon the top of the frame A and means for
effecting the transfer of said sensitive plate into position for exposure in such
frame and for its return to its holder in order to be completely removed from the
camera substantially as described.
Dated this 24th day of June 1898.