Automatic wash tank drain/fill apparatus for processor of photosensitive material
US4432475A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 16, 1981 |
| Grant date | Feb 21, 1984 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 16, 2001 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG03D3/02
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A processor of photosensitive material having a plurality of tanks for containing fluids, one of which is a wash tank for containing wash water, and a top cover, including a movable front portion for covering the tanks when the processor is in operation is provided with a spring-loaded valve for controlling draining of wash water from the wash tank. The spring-loaded valve includes a U-shaped spring attached to the top of the wash tank. Connected to the spring is a plunger which extends vertically down into the drain hole. The plunger is equipped with a gasket for sealing the drain hole when the cover is in its lowered closed position. The spring has an adjustable striker extending upward to contact the bottom of the processor cover. When the processor cover is in its normal operating position, the striker is depressed and the spring is compressed. This seals the gasket against the bottom of the tank and prevents draining. When the front portion of the top cover is removed so that it no longer contacts the striker, the spring expands, lifting the plunger and opening the drain.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.