Lens cleaning apparatus and method and recycling apparatus and method for lens-fitted photo film unit
US6343185B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 26, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jan 29, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 26, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG03B2219/045
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A taking lens of a used lens-fitted photo film unit is cleaned according to sequential steps for recycling. A cleaning head is caused to press a loosened cleaning tape against the taking lens. While the cleaning tape is pressed against the taking lens, the cleaning head is moved, to wipe the taking lens with the cleaning tape. Furthermore, before wiping with the cleaning tape, the taking lens may be brushed by rotating the cleaning head back and forth. In a preferred embodiment, a recycling apparatus includes a disassembly line which disassembles the lens-fitted photo film unit after removal of a cassette shell with photo film being exposed. A main body is obtained with at least a cassette shutter closing mechanism for a cassette shutter and a frame counter mechanism. Furthermore, an inspection line inspects operation of the mechanical parts and a cleaning line cleans at least a viewfinder lens.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.