Web transport apparatus
Abstract
Abstract Web transport apparatus for positively driving a web having a soft and tacky emulsion surface when wet, through a processing bath by contacting only the rear web surface after the web is wet. The apparatus comprises a horizontally arranged fluidcontaining tank with a pair of input rolls disposed along one side of and above the tank which are arranged to form a nip to drive the web into the tank. A pair of horizontally spaced belt support rolls are horizontally disposed in the tank with the first belt support roll adjacent said input rolls and the second belt support roll being disposed adjacent the side of said tank opposite from the first belt support roll. A horizontal belt idler roll is disposed in the tank between the belt support rolls and has an upper surface disposed below the upper surfaces of the belt support rolls. A web-carrying endless belt member is disposed in the tank and extends substantially across the width thereof in one direction, and around the belt support rolls and the lower surface of the idler roll in the other direction. The belt member has sufficient slack in the length thereof so that the upper span may be depressed below the upper surfaces of the belt support rolls. A first fluid supply is disposed above the first belt support roll and is arranged to apply a curtain of activator fluid to the web on the upper surface of the belt. The belt cooperates with the ends of the tank to form a flow path between at least one edge of the belt and the tank. The flow path is arranged, with respect to the flow from the first fluid supply, to limit the flow from the top of the belt whereby a pool of liquid is formed on the top span of the belt and the weight of the liquid pool depresses the belt into driving engagement with the driven roll. A second fluid supply is disposed above the second belt support roll and is arranged to apply a curtain of washoff fluid to the web beyond the end of the belt and outside of the tank. Apparatus is arranged outside of the tank adjacent the second belt support roll for washing and drying the web.
Inventors
- 👤 Frederick H Bruno
- 👤 Raymond J Camp
- 👤 Thomas H Farrell
Bibliographic Details
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 9References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1974-12-27 | 1975-06-28 | 1975-12-28 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1978-12-27 | 1979-06-28 | 1979-12-28 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1982-12-27 | 1983-06-28 | 1983-12-28 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |