JPH02264950A - Container for replenishment - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To facilitate the work for weighing and supplying each parts agent by connecting plural pieces of tubes having a horizontal cross-sectional area corresponding to a compounding ratio of the parts agent. CONSTITUTION:A replenishment use container 11 is constituted by connecting tubular unit containers 11a, 11b and 11c with a connecting piece 13, these containers are filled with each parts agent (P1A), (P1B) and (P1C) being components of a developer P1, and also, length of the containers is equal, and its horizontal cross-sectional area is set to a desired ratio. In this state, each parts agent is extruded by moving a roller 14a of a chemicals extruding device 14 by a prescribed distance by a control part 50, brought to press-feed into a static mixer 15 through pipes 17a - 17c, and simultaneously, a diluted solution W of the necessary quantity is also allowed to flow into the mixer 15 and mixed, dropped down into a replenishing liquid manufacturing tank 16 and a liquid P1 is replenished. In the same way, a fixing liquid P2 and a washing liquid PS are also extruded from containers 21, 31 and manufactured, and allowed to replenish the inside of tanks 26, 36.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION <Industrial Application Field> The present invention relates to a container for replenishing various processing liquids used in wet processing such as development and fixing.

<Prior art> Wet processing of photosensitive materials is carried out by immersing the photosensitive material in a processing solution, such as a developer, filled in a processing tank. In such a case, a processing replenisher (hereinafter referred to as replenisher) is replenished to keep the activity of the processing liquid in the processing tank constant.

Therefore, the processing work is performed while supplying a small amount of replenishing liquid from the replenishment tank into the processing tank at appropriate times.

In this case, the replenisher itself stored in the replenishment tank is usually produced at a separate location and refilled into the replenishment tank as needed. Manual methods such as

This manual manufacturing method will be explained below using a developer as an example.

As shown in FIG. 12, containers Xa and Xb such as bottles
For example, three kinds of parts materials P, A, P, B, and PIC for photographic processing, which are respectively placed in tanks Xc and Xc, and a tank T1 for mixing and stirring are prepared. In addition, this tank T
1 contains in advance a diluent (dilution water) Wl in an amount commensurate with the amount of developer replenisher to be produced.

Next, each part agent P and A necessary for one developer replenisher preparation are prepared.
, P, B, and p, c, and put them individually into drug beakers Ya, Yb, and Yc from each container.
, Yb and Yc are added in the mixing order and mixed and stirred. For example, first, parts materials P and A are added to tank T1 and mixed and stirred thoroughly, then parts materials P and B are added and thoroughly mixed and stirred, and then parts agent P1C is added and mixed and stirred. A developer replenisher P having a predetermined blending ratio is prepared.

Such a manufacturing method is the same for replenishment fixing (bleaching/fixing) liquid P2, cleaning liquid P8, and the like.

Then, the replenishment processing liquid p1.
pm and P, each time by hand, in the respective replenishment tanks (
subtank).

However, all of these tasks, including replenishment, are done manually and are complicated.
For example, if the operator is unskilled or refills frequently, it may take a long time to prepare the replenisher, and it may also be possible to make mistakes in the mixing ratio of parts materials, or to mix certain parts materials together. If you forget to do so, the composition of the replenisher may be incorrect. Furthermore, there is also the problem that parts agents scatter during work and adhere to the human body (particularly hands), clothing, or peripheral equipment, causing stains or illness.

In addition, since there are differences in the amount consumed per time for each part agent,
If drug containers (bottles) with the same capacity are used, there will be a difference in the replacement cycle of the drug containers, making management complicated.

Furthermore, in order to avoid these problems, it is possible to prepare a large amount of replenisher in advance and store it in a container such as a reserve tank, and replenish it to the sub-tank as needed. During this time, the replenisher undergoes evaporation, change in quality, and deterioration (oxidation, etc.), which is undesirable because it causes a problem of deterioration of the photographic properties of the light-sensitive material.

In the same technical field as the present invention, a tube-shaped container containing parts of a photographic processing agent has been disclosed (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 73956/1983).

However, in the container of the present invention, by making the inner diameters of the outflow passages (near the outflow port at the tip of the tube) different in two or more containers, the outflow speed of the parts agent from within each container is changed according to its solubility. , to obtain stable mixing solubility when the parts agent is mixed and dissolved in dilution water.

Therefore, this invention does not take into account the drawbacks of the above-mentioned prior art, and has no relation to the present invention in terms of structure, purpose, and effects.

<Problems to be Solved by the Invention> The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances. It is an object of the present invention to provide a replenishment container that can reduce the labor and time spent on preparing various replenishment solutions.

Means to solve problems〉 Such objects are achieved by the present invention as described below.

That is, the present invention provides a replenishment container used for preparing a replenishment solution for photographic processing by mixing a plurality of parts agents, in which a plurality of unit containers whose internal volumes can be changed are connected, and each unit container is A replenishment container characterized in that the internal volume of the container corresponds to the mixing ratio of the parts agent.

<Function> The effect of the present invention based on such a configuration is that by reducing the internal volume of each unit container filled with the parts agent, an amount of the parts agent corresponding to the mixing ratio of the parts agent is released from each unit container. The replenisher is prepared by extruding the part agent and diluting the extruded part agent to a predetermined concentration. In this case, since the internal volume of each unit container corresponds to the mixing ratio of the parts agents, the parts agents in each unit container are emptied at the same time. Therefore, the replacement cycles of the replenishment containers are consistent, and the replacement can be done easily and without waste.

<Example> Hereinafter, a replenishment container of the present invention will be explained in detail based on the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 shows the configuration of a system when, for example, developing solution P+, fixing solution (bleach/fixing solution) P2, and cleaning solution P3 are prepared simultaneously or sequentially using the replenishment container of the present invention. The production system is divided into three systems for each treatment liquid.

First, there is a production system 1O for the developer P1.
0 includes a drug extrusion device 14 and a static mixer 15.
, replenisher preparation tank 16 and vibrators 17a-17c
is provided.

The refill container (multi-container) 11 of the present invention is a drug extrusion device 1
4 is loaded. The configuration of this replenishment container 11 is as follows:
As shown in FIG. 2a, three unit containers 11a, 11b
and llc are connected by connecting pieces 13, respectively.

Outlets 12a, 12b and 12c for the parts agent are formed at the tips of these unit containers 11a, llb and 11c, respectively.

Unit containers Lla to llc are all tube-shaped containers made of flexible or plastically deformable chemical-resistant material, and inside each unit container 11a, 11b, and llc,
Developer solution P.

For example, three types of parts agents P, A, P, which are the constituent components of
B and P+C are each filled. These parts agents PEA, P, B, and P+C are formed, for example, as water-soluble paste drugs or concentrated liquid drugs.

Note that the present invention may include two or more unit containers filled with the same type of parts agent.

The internal volume of each unit container 11a to 11c corresponds to the mixing ratio (compounding ratio) of the parts agents filled in the unit container. For example, parts agents P, A, PI B
, PIC at a ratio of 2:1:1, the lengths of the unit containers 11a, 11b, and 11c are made equal, and their cross-sectional areas are set at a ratio of 2:1:1.

Here, the present invention is distinguished from one in which one unit container is filled with the developer P1 or its concentrate.

When filling a unit container with the developer P, there is a drawback that the container becomes larger in order to ensure continuity of replenishment to some extent. On the other hand, if priority is given to making the container smaller, the internal volume will become smaller and the container will have to be replaced more frequently, which will ultimately go against the purpose of the present invention.

Furthermore, the developer solution P has poor storage stability, and may deteriorate even after being stored for about half a year, making it unusable.

In addition, in order to solve this problem, a developing device M P is placed in the unit container.
It is also possible to fill the container with a concentrated solution, but if the temperature during storage drops (e.g. below 10°C), precipitates will form, and this precipitate may dissolve when diluting the concentrated solution during use. Due to its poor quality, it may impair the quality of the photograph.

Therefore, in the present invention, the drug filled into each unit container is a unit part drug that has excellent storage stability and is less likely to cause precipitates.

Although the connecting piece 13 is plate-shaped in the illustrated example, it may have any configuration as long as it connects and hangs unit containers. The connecting piece 13 is connected to each unit container 11a.
It may be formed integrally with -11c or may be attached with a separate member.

In addition, in the illustrated example, each unit container 1 is connected to the connecting piece 13.
, a to llc are connected approximately at the center, but the connection points are not limited to this, and each unit container may be connected at the tip, rear end, or two or more of these points. It's okay.

The constituent materials of the unit containers 11a to llc include, for example, polyethylene, polypropylene, polymethylpentene,
Polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl acetate, acrylic resin, polyvinylidene chloride, ionomer resin, styrenic resin, fluororesin, polyacetal, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyphenylene oxide, polyarylate, polysulfone, polyphenylene sulfide, cellulose acetate, silicone, polyurethane ,
Examples include resins such as phenol resins, amino resins, polyester resins, and epoxy resins, relatively soft metals such as lead and aluminum, or laminated layers of any of these. Further, when the connecting piece 13 is formed integrally with the unit container, its constituent materials are also the same as those described above.

It is preferable that all types of unit containers of the replenishment container 11 are prepared, for example, necessary to complete the developing solution, but only a portion of the unit containers may be provided.

Such a replenishment container 11 is configured such that the internal volume of each of the unit containers 11a to llc can be reduced at the same time, preferably at the same time, by a drug extrusion device 14 having an internal volume changing mechanism, and the parts medicine in the container can be extruded. ing.

As shown in FIG. 2b, the drug extrusion device 14 includes a bottom plate 14
The device has a main body composed of 0.2 side plates 141 and a front plate 142, an extrusion roller 14a, and a drive system 143 for moving the roller.

A motor 144 is fixed to one end of the side plates 141, and a screw-like screw wheel 145 supported on the rotation shaft of the motor 144 in parallel with the side plate 141 is connected to a reduction gear train (
(not shown).

A slider 146 that meshes with the screw wheels 145 is installed on the screw wheels 145, and both ends of the rotating shaft of the extrusion roller have elongated holes 147 formed in the side plate 141 along its elongated direction. It passes through and is pivotally supported by the slider 146.

Refill containers 11 are placed on the bottom plate 140 of the main body of the device, and the tips of each of the unit containers 11a to llc are connected to the front plate 142.
Outflow ports 11b to 13b formed at the tip of the
protrudes from an opening 148 formed in the front plate 142.

When the motor 144 is rotated in a predetermined direction with the replenishment container 11 set in the drug extrusion device 14, several screws 1
45, the slider 146 moves forward (indicated by the arrow in FIG. 2b), and the extrusion roller 14a rotates to crush each unit container 11a to llc.

Each time the extrusion roller 14a moves forward by a predetermined amount, the amount of each part agent P, A required for - times of developer preparation is
, P, B, P, and C are the extrusion ports 12 of the respective unit containers.
a, 12b, and 12c.

Since the volume of each unit container 11a to llc corresponds to the mixing ratio of the part medicine to be filled, after setting the replenishment container 11 in the drug extrusion device 14, each unit container 11a The process in which the internal volume of ~llc decreases and the contents of each unit container become empty proceeds simultaneously in each unit container. In other words, when the internal volume of each unit container 11a-llc starts to decrease at the same time and the extrusion roller 14a, which is a drug extrusion member, moves a predetermined distance, the internal volume of each unit container 11a-llc starts to decrease at the same time.
The parts materials P, A to P, and C in an amount corresponding to the mixing ratio of the parts materials are extruded from =llc, and the extrusion roller 14a is moved once or multiple times to reduce the internal volume of each unit container. It stops at the same time, that is, the parts agent in each unit container is emptied at the same time.

As a result, the replacement cycles of the replenishment containers 11 coincide, making the replacement easier and eliminating waste of parts materials.

For example, in three places on one side plate 141, there are replenishment containers 11
Position detection sensors 18a to 18c are installed to detect the relative positions of the roller 14a and the roller 14a.

These sensors 18a to 18c are preferably used to detect whether the roller 14a is in an initial position, a warning position, or a movement completion position, and signals from the sensors are transmitted to an automatic control unit 50, which will be described later.

In this case, the initial position is the position that determines the start of measuring the remaining amount of each unit container 11a to 11c, and the warning position is the position where the roller 1
When 4a passes this position, it is a warning position to prepare for replacing the replenishment container 11, and the movement completion position is when the remaining contents of each unit container 11a to llc are substantially empty (remaining). This is the position that determines that the amount is 0).

Further, the purpose of installing the sensor is not limited to the above, and for example, a sensor similar to the sensors 18a to 18c may be installed on the roller 14.
They can also be installed at approximately equal intervals in the direction of movement of a and used as sensors for regulating the amount of medicine extruded.

In addition, in the present invention, it is not preferable to use a drug suction device that sucks and takes out each part agent from each unit container 11a to 11c using a pump instead of the drug extrusion device 14 and the like described above.

The reason is as follows.

First of all, when suctioning with a pump, if the parts material has a high viscosity, a large load is placed on the pump, which is likely to be subject to design constraints, and may also cause pulsation and variations in the manufacturing time. , Quantitativeness cannot be ensured.

Second, the accumulation of errors in the pump causes errors in the amount of medicine flowing out, reducing the accuracy of the concentration and amount of replenishment fluid.

Thirdly, it is difficult to confirm the amount of reduction in parts in the unit container and to check whether the device is operating properly.

On the other hand, drug extrusion devices can extrude a fixed amount at a time regardless of the viscosity of the drug, so the amount of extrusion is highly accurate. Since the state of deformation, etc. can be easily recognized, it is relatively easy to confirm the amount of reduced parts material in the unit container and check for proper operation, thus eliminating the drawbacks caused by pump suction. Ru.

Now, as shown in detail in FIGS. 3 and 4, the static mixer 15, which is an example of a configuration of a mixing and stirring means, has an elongated cylindrical outer circumferential wall in which a discharge port 151 with a reduced diameter is formed at the lower end. 152, and inside thereof, a plurality of twist stirring plates 153, each twisted at 90 degrees, are arranged in multiple stages with their end surfaces perpendicular to each other.

In this case, the shape, size, and number of twisting agitation plates 153 are determined by each part agent PEA, P'+ B, and P+ C.
It is determined as appropriate, taking into account the mixing and stirring performance.

The outer circumferential wall 152 has drug inlets 155, 156, and 157 formed at predetermined positions in the longitudinal direction of the outer circumferential wall.

Each unit container 11a by Eve 17a, 17b, 17c
~llc are connected to the outlet ports 12a, 12b, and 12c.

Note that each outlet 12 for the static mixer 15
The connecting positions of a, 12b, and 12c are, for example, each unit container 1.
It can be set at a suitable position based on the type of part agent extruded from 1a to llc, the size of the outflow amount, the properties of each part agent, etc.

Further, the upper end opening 15d of the static mixer 15 is connected to a vibrator 49a for injecting a diluent, which will be described later.

In this manner, the static mixer 15 can receive predetermined parts agents and dilution water from predetermined positions along the longitudinal direction of its internal flow path. Thereby, each part agent and dilution water can be mixed in the optimal mixing order.

Vibes 17a, 17b, f7c, 49a are preferably made of a flexible chemical resistant material such as vinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide.

Note that the mixing and stirring means is not limited to a static mixer, but may be a movable type having stirring blades, a vibrator, etc. (preferably installed in a long channel similar to the static mixer). In addition, especially if a pump circulation mixer (not shown) is installed in the replenisher preparation tanks 16, 26, 36, the chemicals P+ A, P+ B, P+ C1 and diluent can be directly added to these tanks. May be injected.

In the present invention, the reason for providing the mixing and stirring means represented by such a static mixer is that the medicine extruded from each unit container is a part medicine, so in order to obtain a replenisher with a uniform composition (concentration), it is necessary to , each parts agent P + A,
This is because it is necessary to sufficiently mix and stir P + B, P + C, and dilution water W.

Next is the fixer (bleach/fixer) P2 production system 20. This system 20 is also provided with a chemical extrusion device 24 similar to the developer production system 10.

This drug extrusion device 24 is loaded with a replenishment container 21 consisting of two unit containers 21a and 21b each filled with, for example, two types of parts agents P, A, and PCB, which are constituent components of the fixer P. , parts agents PxA and P2B are extruded in predetermined amounts by reducing the internal volume of each unit container.

Furthermore, this production system 20 includes one static mixer 25, a replenisher production tank 26, and a vibrator 27.
a and 27b are provided.

The configuration of each of these parts is basically the above-mentioned developer preparation system 1.
Although it is similar to No. 0, the types of parts and the number of unit containers are different, and there are differences due to this.

For example, the unit containers 21a and 21b of the replenishment container 21 are
Due to the relationship with the consumption amount of parts cutting P weight A and PI B, their cross-sectional area, length, etc. may be different from those of the drug supply containers 11 to 13 of the developer production system 10, and the drug extrusion device 2
Regarding No. 4, the diameter, length, amount of movement, etc. of the extrusion roller may also differ. In addition, static mixer 25
In the case of this production system 20, the number of unit containers is two, so the diameter and length of the static mixer 25, the number of twist stirring plates 25c installed, the number and installation position of drug injection ports, etc. Different.

Next, there is a production system 30 of the cleaning solution P, and this system 3
．． 0 is also provided with a drug extrusion device 34 similar to the other production systems IO and 20.

A replenishment container 31 is loaded into this drug extrusion device 34, but when there is only one type of parts agent PEA that is an added component to the cleaning liquid P, the replenishment container 31 is loaded as shown in FIG. 31 is composed of one unit container.

Furthermore, this production system 30 includes one static mixer 35, a production tank 36, and a production tank 36.

A vibrator 37 is provided.

The configuration of each of these parts is basically the same as that of the other production systems 10 and 20, but the types of parts agents and the number of unit containers are different, and there are differences due to this.

Regarding the differences in this case, the above-mentioned fixer preparation system 20
The same is true for .

As shown in FIG. 1, each treatment liquid preparation system io, 20
．． 30 is combined with a common diluent supply device 40, and a predetermined amount of each part agent sent out from each production system 10, 20, 30 is heated to a predetermined amount by the diluent W supplied from this diluent supply device 40. diluted to a concentration.

This diluted liquid supply device 40 is configured as a device having a diluted liquid storage tank 41 as a main part. This diluted liquid storage tank 41 has an ion exchange filter 42 attached to the upper space inside thereof, and is supplied from an external tap water supply facility (not shown) connected via a valve means 43 such as a solenoid valve, for example. The tank 41 is configured to convert tap water into pure water by passing through a filter 42 and store it in the tank 41.

Furthermore, sensors 44a and 44b are installed at two locations inside the tank to detect the amount of liquid in the tank. It is configured such that the amount of pure water (diluent) W stored in the tank can be maintained within a predetermined amount (normally used amount).

Vibes 49a, 49b, 49c for feeding diluted liquid that communicate with the inside of the tank are connected to the lower part of the tank 41, and the other end of each of the vibrators 49a, 49b, 49c is the upper end of the static mixer 15, 25, 35, respectively. connected to the opening.

In the middle of these vibes 49a to 49c, each system 1O12
3 independent liquid pumps every 0.30 46.47.4
8 is installed.

The liquid pumps 46, 47, and 48 are configured to be operated by drive motors 46a, 47a, and 48a that can be operated independently, and each of the liquid pumps 46 to 48
The diluted liquid W discharged from is supplied to the static mixer 15.25.35 of each production system 10120.30 at a desired flow rate via the vibrators 49a to 49c.

Note that instead of the liquid sending pumps 46 to 48, the diluent W can be fed to each static mixer 15, 25, and 35 by one roller pump (not shown). In this case, pump tubes each having an inner diameter corresponding to the supply amount of the diluent W are connected to the vibrators 49a, 49b, and 49c, and each pump tube is simultaneously pumped by the roller of the roller pump (possibly, each stand Tech mixer 15~
At 35, a desired flow rate of diluent is supplied.

Now, the three production systems 1O120, 30 and the diluent supply device 40 are controlled by the automatic control unit 50 as follows, and the control method will be explained using the replenishing developer P1 as an example.

This automatic control section 50 has appropriate calculation functions, storage functions, alarm functions, and the like.

The memory function includes: - Mixing ratio and concentration of each part agent P, A, P, B, P, and C when preparing the desired replenishment developer P, and concentration after dilution - - times of replenishment developer Required amount of each part agent and required amount of diluent W when producing P ◎Each unit container 11a
-Specifications of 11c (capacity, cross-sectional area, etc.) ■The amount of movement of the extrusion roller 14a required to flow out the necessary amount of parts agent from each drug supply container 11 to 13 ■The required amount of diluent W to the static mixer 15 Operation timing of the liquid sending pump 46 necessary for supply [F] Opening/closing of the valve means 43 necessary to maintain the diluted liquid W in the diluted liquid storage tank 41 at the usual liquid level ■Replenishment developer P
Basic data such as the production sequence of No. 1 is stored.

Now, when preparing the replenishing developer P, the automatic control section 50
When activated, the production sequence starts to proceed, and first, the liquid volume detection sensors 44a and 44b are checked to determine whether the diluted liquid W in the diluted liquid storage tank 41 is within the usual liquid volume range. I do.

At this time, if it is determined that the diluent W is insufficient, a command signal is output from the automatic control unit 50 to the valve means 43, and the valve means 43 is opened, allowing tap water to flow in and ion exchange. The water is purified by the filter 42 and the shortage is replenished.

Next, the position detection sensors 18a to 18c are checked to determine the position of the extrusion roller 14a. That is,
It is checked whether the roller 14a is in a state in which the parts materials P, A, PI B, P, and C can flow out from the unit containers 11a to 11c.

At this time, if the roller 14a has passed the warning position, the alarm function of the automatic control unit 50 is activated and the replenishment container 11
If the roller 14 is at the completed position, it is necessary to replace the replenishment container 11 with a new one.

After confirming that the roller 14a is in the normal position in this manner, extrusion of the parts agent from the unit container is started. That is, the automatic control unit 50 outputs a command signal to operate the motor 144 of the drug extrusion device 14, and the roller 14a moves a predetermined distance, and each unit container 11a to
Each part agent p, A, P, B, P, C from llc
is extruded. The extruded parts material is transferred to the pipe 17a.
-17c into the static mixer 15.

Note that the amount of movement of the roller 14a is determined according to the amount of each chemical necessary for producing one replenishment developer P1, which is stored in advance or at any time in the automatic control unit 50.
For example, the control is performed by controlling the motor 14 using a built-in timer.
This is done by controlling the operating time of step 4.

Further, the supply of the diluent W is started almost at the same time as the extrusion of each part agent. That is, a command signal to operate the liquid feed pump 46 is output from the intransitive i wholesaler 50, the liquid feed pump 46 is activated, and the required amount of diluted liquid W flows into the static mixer 15 via the vibrator 49a.

Therefore, each extruded part agent P, A, P, B, P, C
and diluted I&W are well mixed and stirred in the static mixer 15, discharged from the discharge port 151 of the static mixer 15, and dropped into the replenisher preparation tank 16 to produce the desired amount of replenishment developer. P1 is created.

Note that the supply amount of the diluent W is determined according to the amount of the diluent W necessary for producing one replenishment developer P+, which is stored in advance or at any time in the automatic control unit 50. For example, the liquid feeding pump 4 is controlled by a built-in timer.
This is done by controlling the operating time of step 6.

Such control regarding the preparation of the replenishing developer P1 is similarly performed for the replenishing fixer Pg and the replenishing cleaning liquid P3. That is, the automatic control unit 50 stores the same basic data as described above regarding the replenishing fixer P2 and the replenishing cleaning fluid P, and by controlling based on these, the target amount of the replenishing fixer P2 is and a replenishing cleaning liquid P are prepared.

In this case, the order in which the three types of replenishment processing solutions P1 Pa and ls are prepared depends on the order of production in the production sequence that determines the operating order of production systems 10, 20, and 30 for each treatment solution. Alternatively, fabrication in any order can be selected.

As shown in 2, since the diluent supply device 40 is common to each processing solution production system 10, 20, and 30,
It has the following advantages:

1) By sharing the diluent supply device, especially the diluent storage tank 41, the device can be downsized.

2) Control necessary for supplying the diluent W (for example, maintaining the amount of liquid in the diluent storage tank 41) becomes easier. In particular, when the above-mentioned roller pump is used, not only the liquid feeding means is simplified, but also the control associated with liquid feeding including setting of the supply amount becomes easy.

3) For example, maintenance such as replacing the ion exchange filter 42 is performed in a unified manner, which reduces work effort.

What is shown in FIG. 5 is another example of the structure of the replenishment container of the present invention.

The replenishment container 60 shown in the figure includes, for example, three unit containers 6.
0a, 60b and 60c are connected in parallel to each other. The unit container 60a is composed of, for example, a cylindrical cylinder (rigid body) 61 having a closed end 62 at its front end and an open end 63 at its rear end. , a small diameter outlet 64 is formed protrudingly.

A piston (gasket) 65 is slidably inserted into the cylinder 61 from the outside of the open end 63, and the base end of the piston rod 66 is reciprocated as appropriate controlled by the automatic control unit 50. It is connected to linear drive means (not shown).

A suitable liquid-tight O-ring 67 made of, for example, a chemical-resistant synthetic rubber material is fitted onto the outer periphery of the piston 65.

Such a configuration is the same for the other unit containers 60b and 60c.

Note that, similarly to the above, the internal cross-sectional area of each unit container 60a to 60c also corresponds to the mixing ratio of the medicines filled in that unit container.

Such unit containers 60a to 60c are connected to each other by being bonded or fused using an adhesive, for example, at the cylindrical portions of their cylinders 61.

Further, the base end sides of the piston rods 66 corresponding to the unit containers 60a to 60c are also connected by a connecting member 68, so that the pistons 65 can reciprocate simultaneously.

Therefore, each time when each piston 65 moves by a predetermined amount in the direction of the arrow in the figure, the amount of each parts agent P necessary for one time of developer preparation is released from the outlet 64 of each unit container 60a to 60c.
A% PIB, PIC are extruded.

What is shown in FIG. 6 is yet another structural example of the replenishment container of the present invention.

The replenishment container 70 shown in the figure includes, for example, three unit containers 7.
0a, 70b, and 70c are connected in parallel to each other. Each of the unit containers 70a to 70c is made up of a bellows body 71 that can be expanded and contracted, and a small-diameter outflow lower 4 is formed protrudingly in the center of the end 72 on the tip side.

Note that, similarly to the above, the internal cross-sectional area of each unit container 70a to 70c also corresponds to the mixing ratio of the medicines filled in that unit container.

The rear end of the bellows body 7 in each of the unit containers 70a to 70c is bonded to the suppression plate 73 with, for example, adhesive, thereby connecting the unit containers 70a to 70c.

Further, the distal end of a rod 75 is fixed to the suppressing plate 73, and the proximal end of the rod 75 is connected to an appropriate reciprocating linear drive means (not shown) controlled by the automatic control section 50. .

Therefore, each time the pressing plate 73 moves a predetermined amount in the direction of the arrow in the figure as the rod 75 moves, each unit container 7
Each part agent P, A, P+B, and PI C is extruded from the outflow lower 4 of 0a to 70c in an amount necessary for one time of developer preparation.

7A to 7C are cross-sectional side views showing the structure near the outlet of the unit container. The outlet 64 of the unit container shown in these figures includes a sealing means for the outlet 64 and a vibrator 1.
7ax17c is provided. Note that these means can be applied to all of the above-mentioned tube-shaped containers, cylinders and pistons, and bellows-shaped containers, so the parts agent P of the developer
, A, P, B, P, and C will be explained by taking as an example a unit container consisting of a cylinder and a piston.

The sealing and unsealing means 81 shown in FIG. 7A is for each unit container 60.
A rotatably supported circular valve body 81a is provided at the inner depth of the outlet ports 64 of a to 60c, and the outlet ports 64 can be sealed by placing the valve body 81a in the position shown by the solid line in the figure. On the other hand, the vibrators 17a to 17c are attached to the ends (
A protrusion 81b having a structure capable of pressing the end of the valve body 81a is formed at the right end in the figure. Also, vibrators 17a-1
A collar-shaped locking portion 81c is formed at a predetermined position of 7c to restrict the insertion depth of the vibrator into the outlet 64.

In this configuration example, after sealing the outflow port 64 with the valve body 81a positioned as shown in the solid line, for example, each of the unit containers 60a to 60c is
Each parts agent P, A, P, B, PI C is filled into the cylinder 61 from the rear end (open end 63), and the replenishment container 6
0, for example, with the vibrators 17a and 17c fixed, replace each unit container 60 of the new replenishment container 60.
a to 60c and insert the vibrator 17 into their outlet ports 64.
Attach parts a to 17c by inserting them at the ends. At this time, the protrusions 81b of the vibrators 17a to 17c touch the valve body 8 inside the outlet 64.
By pushing the end portion 1a, the valve body 81a is rotated to the position indicated by the dotted line in the figure, and the sealing of the outlet 64 is released.

Note that when the vibrators 17a to 17c are inserted into the outlet 64, the locking portion 81c comes into contact with the end surface of the outlet 64, and the insertion depth is regulated.

The sealing and unsealing means 82 shown in FIG. 7B is for each unit container 60.
A concave portion 82a is formed in the innermost part of the outlet port 64 of a to 60c, and the outlet port 64 can be sealed by fitting a ball 82b for soil protection into the concave portion.

When installing the vibrators 17a to 17c, the length of the end is determined by the outlet 6.
When inserted into the recess 82a, the length of the vibrators 17a to 17c is set so that the end presses the ball 82b and can be removed from the recess 82a, and the insertion depth of such a vibrator is the same as described above. It is determined by the installation position of the locking part 82c.

In this configuration example, after the outflow port 64 is sealed by fitting the ball 82b into the recess 82a (solid line position in the figure), each parts agent P is poured into the cylinder 61 from the rear end of each unit container 60a to 60c, for example. , A, P, B, P, and C and when replacing the replenishment container 60, for example, the vibrator 17
With a-17c fixed, press each unit container 60a to 60c of the new replenishment container 60, and open the outlet port 6 of each unit container 60a to 60c.
To attach the vibrators 17a to 17c to 4, insert the ends.
At this time, when the vibrators 17a to 17c are attached, the ends of the vibrators 17a to 17c are attached by pressing the ball 82b, causing the ball 82b to fall out of the recess 82a (as shown by the dotted line in the figure), thereby unsealing the outflow port 64.

The sealing and unsealing means 83 shown in FIG. 7C is for each unit container 60.
A thin sealing film 83 is provided deep inside the outlet ports 64 of a to 60c.
a to seal the outlet 64, while the vibrator 17a
17c is attached by forming a protruding blade portion 83b at the tip of the end portion that can break through the sealing film 83a. Further, locking portions 83c similar to those described above are formed at predetermined positions of the vibrators 17a to 17c.

In this configuration example, each part agent P, A, P, B, P
When filling C and replacing the replenishment container 60, for example, with the vibrator 17ax17c fixed, press each unit 60a to 60c of the new replenishment container 60, and open the outlet 6.
4, insert the attachment ends of the vibrators 17a-17c into the holes.
At this time, the protruding blade portions 83b of the vibrators 17a to 17c break through the sealing film 83a, thereby releasing the sealing of the outlet 64.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side view showing another structure near the outlet of the unit container.

Hereinafter, an example in which the configuration example with a sealing film shown in FIG. 7C is applied to a tubular unit container 11a=11c will be representatively described.

A sealing film 83a similar to that described above is formed on the unit containers 11a-llc shown in FIG.
A protruding blade portion 83b similar to that described above is formed in c.

Further, a linear guide piece 84 extending along the longitudinal direction of the vibrator is formed at a predetermined position of the vibrator 17a''17c, while a portion closer to the opening than the sealing film 83a of the outlet ports 12a to 12c is formed. A guide groove 85 having a shape that can fit with the guide piece 84 is formed in the guide groove 85 .

The guide piece 84 and the guide groove 85 are arranged in each unit container 11a-
Each 11c has a different shape or is formed at a different position. As a result, the unit containers 11a-l
lc is the corresponding (proper) vibe 17a to 17
c, and cannot be connected to other vibrators (for example, the unit container 11a and the vibrator 17c) due to inconsistency in shape, etc. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the unit containers 11a-llc from being erroneously connected to an unsuitable vibrator.

In addition, as a device that performs the same function as the guide piece 84 and the guide groove 85, for example, the outlet ports 12a to 12
It is also possible to make the cross-sectional shapes of the vibrators 17a to 17c circular, square, or triangular for each unit container 11a to 11c.

9 to 11 are configuration examples in which a replenisher producing apparatus for carrying out the method for producing a replenisher for photosensitive material processing of the present invention is incorporated into a color negative developing processing apparatus. It is.

This replenisher preparation device 1 includes, for example, a developing solution N1, a bleaching solution N1, and a bleaching solution N1.
The apparatus is configured in combination with a color negative development processing apparatus 2 having five processing tanks containing processing liquids such as z, fixing liquid Ns, cleaning liquid N, and stabilizer liquid N4.

The parts used in this replenisher preparation device 1 are those corresponding to each of the processing solutions N1, N2, N1, N, N4, and the production system and control system for producing processing solutions using these parts. The same means as mentioned above are also installed.

Now, in this replenisher preparation device 1, the replenisher preparation tank 91. Tank 9 for preparing bleach solution N2 replenisher
2. Tank 93 for preparing replenisher solution for fixer N, cleaning solution N,
The replenisher preparation tank 94 and the replenisher preparation tank 95 for the stabilizer N4 are the development processing tank 201, bleaching tank 202, fixing tank 203, and cleaning tank 20 of the color negative processing apparatus 2.
4 and the stabilizing tank 205, respectively.

That is, each production tank on the processing liquid production apparatus 1 side is provided integrally with the side of the corresponding processing tank.

These five processing tanks are arranged in parallel according to the order of processing of the photosensitive material 300, and the photosensitive material 300 to be processed is first passed through the photosensitive material entrance 210 formed on one side 209 of the color negative development processing device 2. It is carried into the developing tank 201.

Then, the transported photosensitive material 300 is transferred to each processing tank 201.
~ 205 and between the processing tanks 201 to 205, and are sequentially transported into the processing tanks of the subsequent process by a transport means (not shown) consisting of transport rollers and guides installed in the processing tanks 201 to 205 and between each processing tank. The material is immersed in a processing solution for a predetermined period of time, and then sent to a drying process to complete the processing.

Here, the internal structure of each processing tank of the color negative development processing device 2 and each replenisher preparation tank of the replenisher preparation device 1 is as follows.
This will be explained based on FIGS. 10 and 11. In addition,
Each processing tank has the same structure as Habo, so the development processing tank (hereinafter also referred to as main tank) 201 and the developer replenisher preparation tank (hereinafter also referred to as sub tank) 1
6 will be explained as a representative example.

As shown in FIG. 10, the main tank 201 and the sub-tank 16 are coupled together so that they share a partition wall 262 in which a communication window 261 is formed to allow liquid flow.

The discharge port 15a of the static mixer 15 for replenishing developer N1, similar to that described above, is installed so as to penetrate the upper wall of the sub-tank 16 and protrude into the sub-tank 16, and similarly, a rod-shaped heater 263 is provided. sub tank 16
It is installed in a state where it penetrates the upper wall of the sub-tank 16 and is immersed in the liquid of the sub-tank 16.

This heater 263 is connected to the developer P in the sub-tank 16,
Preferably, it also has a temperature control function to maintain the developer P1 within a temperature range suitable for development processing (for example, 30 to 50°C).

A cylindrical filter 264 is attached to a lower position inside the sub-tank 16, and a circulation pump 266 is connected to the inside of the filter 264 via an appropriate circulation vibrator 265 provided through the lower wall of the sub-tank 16. It communicates with the suction side. Moreover, the discharge side of the circulation pump 266 is
It communicates with the bottom area within the main tank 201 via a similar circulation vibe 267 that passes through the lower wall of the main tank 201 . When the circulation pump 266 is operated, the replenisher P in the sub-tank 16 that has passed through the filter 264 is forced to flow into the main tank 201 via the circulation vibrators 265 and 267.

In addition, along with this, the developer P in the main tank 201
+ moves into the sub-tank 16 through the communication window 261 formed in the partition wall 262.

do. As a result, the developer P in both tanks I6 and 201 is circulated via the circulation vibrator 265 and 267.

Further, the main tank 201 is provided with a drain pipe 269 for draining the developer P by overflow, so that the liquid level 268 in the tank can be kept constant.

Note that it is preferable to use a part of the cleaning solution for the cleaning treatment (cleaning water at a stage not containing additives) as the diluting solution for producing each treatment i (I N + ~N4.Ns).This cleaning The water may be, for example, tap water directly from the water pipes or previously stored in a predetermined tank, such tap water passed through an ion exchange filter (FRSS), or the like, or water from the treatment device 2. Tap water stored in designated tanks installed internally or externally (each tank can be replaced);
Can be supplied as distilled water or ion-exchanged water.

Because of this configuration, the illustrated processing liquid preparation apparatus l has the following features:
The work of preparing each of the replenishment processing solutions N1 to N4 and Ns and the work of replenishing each of the processing tanks 201 to 205 of the color negative developing processing apparatus 2 are both performed automatically under the control of the automatic control unit 50. become.

Specific examples of parts agents include the following.

I) For color paper [Developer preparation parts] Agent A: Mixture of potassium carbonate potassium hydroxide chelate remover Agent B Hydroxylamine sulfate solution Agent C 4-Amino-N-ethyl-N-(β-methanesulfonamide ethyl ) Mixture of m-toluidine sulfate benzyl alcohol diethylene glycol [Parts for making bleaching/fixing solution] Part A: Mixture of ammonium thiosulfate and sodium bisulfite Part B Ferric ammonium ethylenediaminetetraacetate Aqueous ammonia [Parts for making cleaning solution] A Agent: Mixing of sodium isocyanurate dichloride solution 2) For color negatives [Developer preparation parts agent] Agent A: Mixing of sodium sulfite, potassium bromide, sodium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate Agent B: Potassium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, hydroxylamine, diethylenetriamine, pentaacetic acid Mixture of l-hydroxyethylidene-1,1-diphosphonic acid Agent C: 4-[N-ethyl-N-(β-hydroxyethyl)aminoco-2-methylaniline [parts agent for bleaching solution preparation] Agent A: Ammonium nitrate ammonia Mixture of water Agent B: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium ammonium dihydrate Mixture of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium ammonium bromide [Parts agent for fixer preparation 1 Agent A: Mixture of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium sodium bisulfite ammonia water Mixture B Agent: ammonium thiosulfate [Parts agent for cleaning liquid preparation] Agent A: Sodium incyanurate dichloride solution [Parts shaving agent for making stable solution Agent A: Formalin monoethylene glycol polyethylene oxide Mixture Note that the above parts agent is just an example, and It is not limited to these.

As explained above, in the method for producing a replenisher using a replenishment container of the present invention, each unit container 11 filled with a parts agent
By reducing the internal volume of a-11c, an amount of parts agents corresponding to the mixing ratio of the parts agents is extruded, and a diluting liquid for diluting these parts agents to a predetermined concentration is supplied, and the parts are extruded from each unit container. By mixing and stirring the spilled parts agent and diluted solution in a mixing and pushing means provided for each processing solution to be produced, it is possible to produce a processing replenisher solution diluted to a predetermined concentration. can be carried out under automatic control.

Therefore, even an unskilled person can accurately prepare various processing replenishing solutions with simple operations.

Moreover, since the preparation of the replenisher is performed automatically and there is little dependence on manual labor, there is no possibility that the parts agent will adhere to hands, clothes, or peripheral equipment and stain them (which is favorable from a sanitary and environmental standpoint).

Furthermore, when the above-mentioned replenisher liquid preparation device for photosensitive material processing is combined with a photosensitive material processing device, it is possible to automatically replenish various processing liquids to the processing tank at the same time as preparing the processing liquid. Contributes to the independence (self-sufficiency) of photosensitive material processing equipment.

In the present invention, the types of photosensitive materials to be processed are not particularly limited, and include, for example, color negative film, color reversal film, color photographic paper, color positive film, color reversal photographic paper, photographic material for plate making, and X-ray photographic photosensitive material. Examples include various photosensitive materials such as black and white negative film, black and white photographic paper, and microphotosensitive materials.

Note that the present invention can be applied to, for example, a wet type copying machine, an automatic developing machine,
It can be applied to various photosensitive material processing devices such as printer processors, video printer processors, coin machines for making photo prints, and color paper processing machines for plate inspection.

Although the illustrated embodiments have been described above, it is noted that the present invention is not limited thereto, and that various modifications can be made without changing the gist thereof.

For example, the replenishment container is not limited to the configuration shown in the drawings, but may have any other suitable shape or structure. Also, regarding the means for changing the internal volume of the container,
Other mechanisms, methods, etc. may be used as long as they can achieve the same purpose.

<Effects of the Invention> As described above, according to the replenishment container of the present invention, various replenishment liquids can be used, including the work of measuring and supplying each part agent according to the desired compounding ratio, and the work of setting the volume of the diluent. It is possible to reduce the labor and time spent on production work, and also to produce an appropriate replenisher without waste.

In particular, if the replenishment container of the present invention is used to automate the preparation of replenisher solution and its supply to the processing tank, benefits such as reduced labor and time, improved replenishment accuracy, and improvements in hygiene and environment will be brought about. It will be done.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram for explaining a method for producing a replenisher using a replenishment container of the present invention. FIG. 2a is a plan view showing an example of the structure of the replenishment container of the present invention. FIG. 2b is a perspective view showing a configuration example of a drug extrusion device for loading a replenishment container. FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 are a schematic vertical sectional view and an enlarged perspective view, respectively, showing the structure of a static mixer which is an example of a configuration of a mixing and stirring means used for producing a replenisher. FIGS. 5 and 6 are perspective views showing other configuration examples of the replenishment container of the present invention, respectively. FIGS. 7A to 7C are partial vertical cross-sectional views showing a configuration example of the vicinity of the outlet of the replenishment container. FIG. 8 is a partial longitudinal cross-sectional view showing another example of the configuration near the outlet of the replenishment container. FIG. 9 is a perspective view schematically showing the overall structure when the replenisher producing device using the replenishing container of the present invention is combined with a color negative developing processing device. FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line xx in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a schematic partial configuration diagram of the XI view in FIG. 10. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a procedure for producing a replenisher by a conventional method. Explanation of symbols 1... Replenisher preparation device 2... Color negative development processing device 10.20.30... Production system 11.21.31... Replenishment containers 11a to 11c, 21a, 2 l b ・...Unit container 12a to 12c =-outlet 4.24.34...Drug extrusion device 4a...Extrusion roller 40...Bottom plate 41...Side plate 42...Front plate 43...・Drive system 44...Motor 45...Screw wheels 46...Slider 47...Elongated hole 48...Opening 5, 25, 35...Static mixer 51...
Discharge port 52...Outer peripheral wall 53...Twisted stirring plate 54...Top opening 55.156.157...Drug injection port 6.26.36
... Replenishment liquid preparation tanks 7a to 17c, 27a, 2
7b, 37... Pipes 18a to 18c... Sensor 40... Diluent supply device 41... Diluent storage tank 42... Ion exchange filter 43... Valve means 44a, 44 b... Sensors 46 to 48...Liquid pumps 46a to 48a...Drive motors 49a to 49c...Vibe 50...Automatic control section 60...Refill containers 60a to 60c...Unit container 61...・Cylinder 62.72... Closed end 63... Open 7I female end 64.74... Outlet 65... Piston 66... Piston rod 67... 0 ring 68... Connection Members 70... Drug supply containers 70a to 70c... Unit container 71... Bellows body 73... Pressing plate 75... Rod 81, 82, 83... Sealing and unsealing means 81a... Valve body 81b...Protrusions 81c, 82c, 83c...Locking part 82a...Four parts 82b...Sealing ball 83a...Sealing film 83b...Protruded blade part 84... Guide piece 85... Guide grooves 91 to 95... Replenishment liquid preparation tank (sub tank 201...
Developing tank (main tank) 202... Bleaching tank 203... Fixing tank 204... Washing tank 205... Stabilizing tank 209... - Side 210... Photosensitive material entrance 261... Communication window 262... Partition wall 263... Heater 264... Filter 265.267... Circulation vibe 266... Circulation pump 268... Liquid level 269... Drain pipe 300... Photosensitive material P1. N +...Developer Pz, Na...Fixer N3...Bleach 7 nights N4...Stabilizer Ps, Ns...Washing solution P, A, P, B, P, C, P, A ,P. P, A...Parts agent B. W, W,... Diluent (dilution water) T,... Tank xa, Xb, Xc... Container Ya, Yb, Yc... Pharmaceutical beaker FIG, 2a FIG, 3 FIG, 8 11a= 11c FIG. F I G, 12 Procedural amendment (voluntary) May 10, 1989

Claims (1)

[Claims] (1) A replenishment container used to prepare a replenisher for photographic processing by mixing multiple parts agents, in which a plurality of unit containers whose internal volume can be changed are connected, and the contents of each unit container are A replenishment container characterized in that the volume corresponds to the mixing ratio of the parts agent.