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Patent US5984539A successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US5984539A
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US
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Method and apparatus of applying a solution of a predetermined viscosity to photosensitive material to form a protective coating thereon
Assignee: Eastman Kodak Co
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Filing: 1997-11-06
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Granted: 1999-11-16
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Expires: 2017-11-06
Abstract
Abstract The present invention relates to a method and apparatus of applying a solution of a predetermined viscosity to photosensitive material to form a protective coating on the photosensitive material. The method and apparatus can be used in a photographic processing device, and the apparatus can be built into an existing or new photographic processor or added on as an accessory. The method and apparatus is utilized to apply a viscous solution to at least one surface of processed photosensitize materials prior to drying in a manner that allows the solution to be uniformly applied to the at least one surface at a specific layer thickness. The viscous solution after drying functions as a protective coating which can protect the processed photosensitize material against scratches and moisture. The apparatus includes a control mechanism which controls the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution so as to insure that a uniform coating that provides protection to the entire surface of the processed photosensitize material is provided.
Inventors
- 👤 David L. Patton
- 👤 Anne E. Bohan
- 👤 Kevin M. O'Connor
- 👤 Ralph L. Piccinino, Jr.
- 👤 Gordon F. Breese
- 👤 Ramasubramaniam Hanumanthu
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-09 11:54
CPC Classifications
G; G03; G03D; G03D15/00; G03D15/06; G03C; G03C11/00; G03C11/08; G03D15/02; G03D15/025
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 105
Claim 1
Independent Claim
111 words
A method of applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to form a protective coating on at least one surface of the photosensitive material, the method comprising the steps of: applying a layer of viscous solution on at least one surface of a photosensitive material; and controlling a thickness, uniformity and lay-down amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material using a metering roller for removing an amount of viscous solution so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said viscous solution on said at least one surface of the photosensitive material.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
111 words
A method of applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to form a protective coating on at least one surface of the photosensitive material, the method comprising the steps of: applying a layer of viscous solution on at least one surface of a photosensitive material; and controlling a thickness, uniformity and lay-down amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material using a metering roller for removing an amount of viscous solution so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said viscous solution on said at least one surface of the photosensitive material.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
47 words
A method according to claim 1, wherein said viscous solution is held in a tank and is applied to the at least one surface of said photosensitive material by at least one coating roller rotatably mounted in said tank, as said photosensitive material passes through said tank.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
35 words
A method according to claim 1, wherein said viscous solution is held in a tank and applied to the at least one surface of the photosensitive material by dipping the photosensitive material in the tank.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
38 words
A method according to claim 3, wherein said step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution comprises the step of removing the photosensitive material from the viscous solution at a predetermined angle.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method according to claim 1, comprising the further step of drying the photosensitive material after said controlling step.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
57 words
A method according to claim 5, comprising the further steps of: applying a further layer of viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material after said drying step; and controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied further layer of viscous solution on the at least one surface of the material.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
43 words
A method according to claim 6, comprising the further step of: further drying said photosensitive material after said step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the further layer of viscous solution on the at least one surface of the material.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
50 words
A method according to claim 1, comprising the further step of: curing the layer of viscous solution on the photosensitive material the photosensitive material after said step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 8, comprising the further step of drying the material after said curing step.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
57 words
A method according to claim 8, comprising the further steps of: applying a further layer of viscous solution to the at least one surface of the photosensitive material after said curing step; and controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied further layer of viscous solution on the at least one surface of the material.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
55 words
A method according to claim 10, comprising the further steps of: further curing the further layer of viscous solution on the photosensitive material after the step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the further layer of viscous solution on the photosensitive material; and further drying the material after said further curing step.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
114 words
A method according to claim 1, comprising the further steps of: curing the layer of viscous solution on the photosensitive material after said step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material; drying the cured photosensitive material; applying a further layer of viscous solution on the photosensitive material; controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the further layer of viscous solution; further curing the further layer of viscous solution on the photosensitive material after the step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the further layer of viscous solution; and further drying the further cured material.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 1, wherein said viscous solution comprises a water-based latex solution.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
42 words
A method according to claim 1, wherein said step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution comprises the step of providing a range of dry thickness of the protective coating of between 0.3 to 6 micrometers.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
44 words
A method according to claim 1, wherein said step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution comprises the step of controlling a dry laydown amount of the protective coating within a range of 0.3 to 6 g/sq meter.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
43 words
A method according to claim 1, wherein said step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution comprises the step of controlling a wet laydown amount of the solution within a range of 0.6 to 600 cc/sq meter.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method according to claim 1, wherein before said applying step, the method comprises the steps of converting a coating product to said viscous solution of predetermined viscosity.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 1, wherein said coating product is in one of a liquid, solid, semi-solid, powder or gaseous form.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method according to claim 1, comprising the further steps of drying the material, and thereafter curing the layer of viscous solution on the dried material.
Claim 21
Independent Claim
135 words
A method for developing an exposed photosensitive material having a front side and a back side and for applying a protective coating thereon, the method comprising the steps of: a) subjecting the exposed photosensitive material to at least one processing solution so as to develop latent images thereon; b) removing any excess processing solution from the photosensitive material after it has been subjected to said at least one processing solution; c) applying a coating solution on at least one of said front or back sides of said photosensitive material; d) controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of said applied coating solution based on a viscosity of the coating solution using a metering roller so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied coating solution; and e) drying said photosensitive material.
Claim 22
Independent Claim
135 words
A method for developing an exposed photosensitive material having a front side and a back side and for applying a protective coating thereon, the method comprising the steps of: a) subjecting the exposed photosensitive material to at least one processing solution so as to develop latent images thereon; b) removing any excess processing solution from the photosensitive material after it has been subjected to said at least one processing solution; c) applying a coating solution on at least one of said front or back sides of said photosensitive material; d) controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of said applied coating solution based on a viscosity of the coating solution using a metering roller so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied coating solution; and e) drying said photosensitive material.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method according to claim 20, wherein said coating solution is applied on both sides of said photosensitive material.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method according to claim 20, wherein a coating roller is used to provide said coating solution.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
36 words
A method according to claim 20, wherein said coating solution is applied by first passing said photosensitive material through a tank containing said coating solution and then using a coating roll to apply said coating solution.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
34 words
A method according to claim 20, wherein said processing solution comprises one of the following solutions: a developer solution, a bleach solution, a fix solution, or a combination bleach-fix solution, and a wash/stabilizer solution.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 20, wherein a support of said photosensitive material comprises paper.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
12 words
A method according to claim 20, wherein said photosensitive material comprises film.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
14 words
A method according to claim 20, wherein said coating solution comprises water-based latex solutions.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method according to claim 20, wherein a support of said photosensitive material comprises a plastic base.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
41 words
A method according to claim 20, wherein said step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution comprises the step providing a range of dry thickness of the protective coating of between 0.3 to 6 micrometers.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
44 words
A method according to claim 20, wherein said step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution comprises the step of controlling a dry laydown amount of the protective coating within a range of 0.3 to 6 g/sq meter.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
42 words
A method according to claim 20, wherein said step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution comprises the step controlling a wet laydown amount of the solution within a range of 0.6 to 600 cc/sq meter.
Claim 34
Independent Claim
122 words
An apparatus for applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to provide for a protective coating on the materials, the apparatus comprising: a first applicator which applies a layer of viscous solution to at least one surface of the material; and a first controller which controls a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the material, to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied viscous solution, wherein said first controller comprises a metering roller rotatably mounted in a tank which holds said viscous solution, said metering roller contacting the at least one surface of the material having the viscous solution thereon.
Claim 35
Independent Claim
122 words
An apparatus for applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to provide for a protective coating on the materials, the apparatus comprising: a first applicator which applies a layer of viscous solution to at least one surface of the material; and a first controller which controls a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the material, to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied viscous solution, wherein said first controller comprises a metering roller rotatably mounted in a tank which holds said viscous solution, said metering roller contacting the at least one surface of the material having the viscous solution thereon.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
36 words
An apparatus according to claim 32, further comprising a first dryer positioned downstream of said first controller, with respect to a transport direction of said material, which dries said material having said viscous solution applied thereon.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
74 words
An apparatus according to claim 33, further comprising: a second applicator located downstream of the first dryer, with respect to the transport direction, which applies a further layer of viscous solution to the at least one surface of the photosensitive material; a second controller which controls a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied further layer of viscous solution; and a second dryer positioned downstream of said second controller for drying the material.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
55 words
An apparatus according to claim 34, wherein said first controller and said second controller respectively control the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution and the applied further layer of viscous solution so as to provide for a range of dry thickness of the protective coating of between 0.3 to 6 micrometers.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
57 words
An apparatus according to claim 34, wherein said first controller and said second controller respectively control the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution and the applied further layer of viscous solution so as to provide for a dry laydown amount of the protective coating within a range of 0.3 to 6 g/sq meter.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
56 words
An apparatus according to claim 34, wherein said first controller and said second controller respectively control the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution and the applied further layer of viscous solution so as to provide for a wet laydown amount of the solutions within a range of 0.6 to 600 cc/sq meter.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
33 words
An apparatus according to claim 33, further comprising: a turn-over mechanism positioned downstream of said first dryer, with respect to the transport direction, which turns over the photosensitive material as it passes therethrough.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
109 words
An apparatus according to claim 38, further comprising: a second applicator located downstream of said turn-over mechanism, with respect to the transport direction, which applies a further layer of viscous solution to the material after said turn-over mechanism turns over said material, such that said further layer of viscous solution is applied on a surface of said material which is opposite said at least one surface of the material; a second controller which controls a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied further layer of viscous solution; and a second dryer positioned downstream of said second controlling means, with respect to the transport direction, which dries the material.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
55 words
An apparatus according to claim 39, wherein said first controller and said second controller respectively control the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution and the applied further layer of viscous solution so as to provide for a range of dry thickness of the protective coating of between 0.3 to 6 micrometers.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
57 words
An apparatus according to claim 39, wherein said first controller and said second controller respectively control the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution and the applied further layer of viscous solution so as to provide for a dry laydown amount of the protective coating within a range of 0.3 to 6 g/sq meter.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
56 words
An apparatus according to claim 39, wherein said first controller and said second controller respectively control the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution and the applied further layer of viscous solution so as to provide for a wet laydown amount of the solutions within a range of 0.6 to 600 cc/sq meter.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
36 words
An apparatus according to claim 32, wherein said first applicator comprises a coating roller rotatably mounted in a tank which holds said viscous solution, said coating roller being at least partially submerged in said viscous solution.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
40 words
An apparatus according to claim 32, wherein said first controller comprises a doctor blade mounted in a tank which holds said viscous solution, said doctor blade contacting said at least one surface of the material having the viscous solution thereon.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus according to claim 32, wherein said first controller comprises an air knife which directs air to said at least one surface of the material having the viscous solution thereon.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
52 words
An apparatus according to claim 32, further comprising: a first curing mechanism positioned downstream of the first controller, with respect to a transport direction of the material, which cures the viscous solution on the photosensitive material; and a first dryer positioned downstream of the first curing mechanism which dries the cured material.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
138 words
An apparatus according to claim 32, further comprising: a first curing mechanism positioned downstream of said first controller, with respect to a transport direction of the material, which cures the viscous solution on the photosensitive material; a second applicator positioned downstream of the first curing mechanism, with respect to the transport direction of the material, which applies a further layer of viscous solution to the at least one surface of the material; a second controller which controls a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the further layer of viscous solution; a second curing mechanism positioned downstream of the second controller, with respect to the transport direction, which cures the further layer of viscous solution on the photosensitive material; and a dryer positioned downstream of the second curing mechanism, with respect to the transport direction, which dries the material.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
55 words
An apparatus according to claim 47, wherein said first controller and said second controller respectively control the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution and the applied further layer of viscous solution so as to provide for a range of dry thickness of the protective coating of between 0.3 to 6 micrometers.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
57 words
An apparatus according to claim 47, wherein said first controller and said second controller respectively control the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution and the applied further layer of viscous solution so as to provide for a dry laydown amount of the protective coating within a range of 0.3 to 6 g/sq meter.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
56 words
An apparatus according to claim 47, wherein said first controller and said second controller respectively control the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution and the applied further layer of viscous solution so as to provide for a wet laydown amount of the solutions within a range of 0.6 to 600 cc/sq meter.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
139 words
An apparatus according to claim 32, further comprising: a first curing mechanism located downstream of the first controller, with respect to a transport direction of the material, which cures the material; a first dryer located downstream of the first curing mechanism, with respect to the transport direction, which dries the material; a second applicator which applies a further layer of viscous solution to the at least one surface of the material; a second controller which controls a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the further layer of viscous solution on the at least one surface of the material; a second curing mechanism located downstream of the second controller, with respect to the transport direction, which cures the material; and a second dryer located downstream of the second curing mechanism, with respect to the transport direction, which dries the material.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
55 words
An apparatus according to claim 51, wherein said first controller and said second controller respectively control the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution and the applied further layer of viscous solution so as to provide for a range of dry thickness of the protective coating of between 0.3 to 6 micrometers.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
57 words
An apparatus according to claim 51, wherein said first controller and said second controller respectively control the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution and the applied further layer of viscous solution so as to provide for a dry laydown amount of the protective coating within a range of 0.3 to 6 g/sq meter.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
56 words
An apparatus according to claim 51, wherein said first controller and said second controller respectively control the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution and the applied further layer of viscous solution so as to provide for a wet laydown amount of the solutions within a range of 0.6 to 600 cc/sq meter.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
15 words
An apparatus according to claim 32, wherein said viscous solution comprises a water-based latex solution.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
19 words
An apparatus according to claim 32, wherein a coating product is converted to said viscous solution of predetermined viscosity.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
22 words
An apparatus according to claim 56, wherein said coating product is in one of a liquid, solid, semi-solid, powder or gaseous form.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
23 words
An apparatus according to claim 32, further comprising a dryer which dries the material and a curing mechanism positioned dowstream of the dryer.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
103 words
A processor for developing an exposed photosensitive material, the processor comprising: a processing section for developing an exposed photosensitive material, said processing section comprising at least one processing tank containing a processing solution through which said photosensitive material passes; a coating section disposed after said processing section for applying a layer of a coating solution on said photosensitive material which forms a protective coating when drying, said coating section comprising a control mechanism for controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied layer of coating solution; and a dryer for drying said photosensitive material and said layer of coating solution thereon.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
103 words
A processor for developing an exposed photosensitive material, the processor comprising: a processing section for developing an exposed photosensitive material, said processing section comprising at least one processing tank containing a processing solution through which said photosensitive material passes; a coating section disposed after said processing section for applying a layer of a coating solution on said photosensitive material which forms a protective coating when drying, said coating section comprising a control mechanism for controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied layer of coating solution; and a dryer for drying said photosensitive material and said layer of coating solution thereon.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
21 words
A processor according to claim 59, wherein said processing section comprises a plurality of processing tanks disposed adjacent to each other.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
34 words
A processor according to claim 60, wherein said coating section is placed downstream of a last processing tank of said adjacent processing tanks with respect to a direction of travel of said photosensitive material.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
20 words
An processor according to claim 59, wherein said coating section includes a tank in which said photosensitive material is immersed.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
31 words
A processor according to claim 62, wherein said control mechanism comprises a pivotable guide which leads the photosensitive material out of said coating solution in said tank at a predetermined angle.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
27 words
An processor according to claim 59, wherein said control mechanism comprises a metering roller used to provide said uniform layer of coating solution on said photosensitive material.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
27 words
A processor according to claim 59, wherein said control mechanism comprises a doctor blade used to provide said uniform layer of coating solution on said photosensitive material.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
27 words
An processor according to claim 59, wherein said control mechanism comprises an air knife used to provide said uniform layer of coating solution on said photosensitive material.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
39 words
A processor according to claim 59, wherein said dryer is spaced from said coating section a distance such that said coating solution will become tacky so that contact by rollers in the dryer will not substantially affect said layer.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
27 words
A processor according to claim 59, wherein the dryer includes transport means for transporting and guiding said photosensitive material slowly by side edges of the photosensitive material.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
24 words
A processor according to claim 59, further comprising a printing section for providing an image on said photosensitive material prior to said processing section.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
16 words
A processor according to claim 59, wherein said photosensitive material is provided in a web form.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
14 words
A processor according to claim 59, wherein said photosensitive material is a cut sheet.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
14 words
A processor according to claim 59, wherein said photosensitive material comprises a plastic base.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
25 words
A processor according to claim 59, wherein said coating section includes a recirculation system and a filter for removing any contaminates from said coating solution.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
42 words
A processor according to claim 59, wherein said processing section includes a tank for holding said coating solution to be applied to said photosensitive material, said tank having means for closing of said tank so as to provide a substantially closed chamber.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
21 words
A processor according to claim 59, wherein said coating section comprises a coating roller which is integral with said control mechanism.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
36 words
A processor according to claim 59, further comprising a movable gate assembly which is operable to selectively by-pass the coating section so as to transport the photosensitive material directly from the processing section to the dryer.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
42 words
A processor according to claim 59, wherein said control mechanism controls the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution so as to provide for a range of dry thickness of the protective coating of between 0.3 to 6 micrometers.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
44 words
A processor according to claim 59, wherein said control mechanism controls the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution so as to provide for a dry laydown amount of the protective coating within a range of 0.3 to 6 g/sq meter.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
43 words
A processor according to claim 59, wherein said control mechanism controls the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution so as to provide for a wet laydown amount of the solution within a range of 0.6 to 600 cc/sq meter.
Claim 84
Independent Claim
104 words
A method of applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to form a protective coating on at least one surface of the photosensitive material, the method comprising the steps of: applying a layer of viscous solution on at least one surface of a photosensitive material; and controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material using an air knife so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said viscous solution on said at least one surface of the photosensitive material.
Claim 85
Independent Claim
104 words
A method of applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to form a protective coating on at least one surface of the photosensitive material, the method comprising the steps of: applying a layer of viscous solution on at least one surface of a photosensitive material; and controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material using an air knife so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said viscous solution on said at least one surface of the photosensitive material.
Claim 86
Independent Claim
142 words
A method of applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to form a protective coating on at least one surface of the photosensitive material, the method comprising the steps of: applying a layer of viscous solution on at least one surface of a photosensitive material; controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material, as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said viscous solution on said at least one surface of the photosensitive material; curing the layer of viscous solution on the photosensitive material after said step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on said at least one surface of said photosensitive material; and drying the material after said curing step.
Claim 87
Independent Claim
142 words
A method of applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to form a protective coating on at least one surface of the photosensitive material, the method comprising the steps of: applying a layer of viscous solution on at least one surface of a photosensitive material; controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material, as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said viscous solution on said at least one surface of the photosensitive material; curing the layer of viscous solution on the photosensitive material after said step of controlling the thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on said at least one surface of said photosensitive material; and drying the material after said curing step.
Claim 88
Independent Claim
121 words
A method of applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to form a protective coating on at least one surface of the photosensitive material, the method comprising the steps of: applying a layer of viscous solution on at least one surface of a photosensitive material; and controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material so as to control a dry laydown amount of the protective coating within a range of 0.3 to 6 g/m 2 so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said viscous solution on said at least one surface of the photosensitive material.
Claim 89
Independent Claim
121 words
A method of applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to form a protective coating on at least one surface of the photosensitive material, the method comprising the steps of: applying a layer of viscous solution on at least one surface of a photosensitive material; and controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material so as to control a dry laydown amount of the protective coating within a range of 0.3 to 6 g/m 2 so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said viscous solution on said at least one surface of the photosensitive material.
Claim 90
Independent Claim
118 words
A method of applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to form a protective coating on at least one surface of the photosensitive material, the method comprising the steps of: applying a layer of viscous solution on at least one surface of a photosensitive material; and controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material as to control what down amount of the solution within a range of 0.6 to 600 cc/m 2 so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said viscous solution on said at least one surface of the photosensitive material.
Claim 91
Independent Claim
118 words
A method of applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to form a protective coating on at least one surface of the photosensitive material, the method comprising the steps of: applying a layer of viscous solution on at least one surface of a photosensitive material; and controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material as to control what down amount of the solution within a range of 0.6 to 600 cc/m 2 so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said viscous solution on said at least one surface of the photosensitive material.
Claim 92
Independent Claim
116 words
A method of applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to form a protective coating on at least one surface of the photosensitive material, the method comprising the steps of: applying a layer of viscous solution on at least one surface of a photosensitive material; controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material, to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said viscous solution on said at least one surface of the photosensitive material; and the step of drying the material and thereafter curing the layer of viscous solution on the dried material.
Claim 93
Independent Claim
116 words
A method of applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to form a protective coating on at least one surface of the photosensitive material, the method comprising the steps of: applying a layer of viscous solution on at least one surface of a photosensitive material; controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the photosensitive material, to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said viscous solution on said at least one surface of the photosensitive material; and the step of drying the material and thereafter curing the layer of viscous solution on the dried material.
Claim 94
Independent Claim
134 words
A method for developing an exposed photosensitive material having a front side and a back side and for applying a protective coating thereon, the method comprising the steps of: a) subjecting the exposed photosensitive material to at least one processing solution so as to develop latent images thereon; b) removing any excess processing solution from the photosensitive material after it has been subjected to said at least one processing solution; c) applying a coating solution on at least one of said front or back sides of said photosensitive material; d) controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of said applied coating solution based on a viscosity of the coating solution using an aromatic so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied coating solution; and e) drying said photosensitive material.
Claim 95
Independent Claim
134 words
A method for developing an exposed photosensitive material having a front side and a back side and for applying a protective coating thereon, the method comprising the steps of: a) subjecting the exposed photosensitive material to at least one processing solution so as to develop latent images thereon; b) removing any excess processing solution from the photosensitive material after it has been subjected to said at least one processing solution; c) applying a coating solution on at least one of said front or back sides of said photosensitive material; d) controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of said applied coating solution based on a viscosity of the coating solution using an aromatic so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied coating solution; and e) drying said photosensitive material.
Claim 96
Independent Claim
160 words
A method for developing an exposed photosensitive material having a front side and a back side and for applying a protective coating thereon, the method comprising the steps of: a) subjecting the exposed photosensitive material to at least one processing solution so as to develop latent images thereon; b) removing any excess processing solution from the photosensitive material after it has been subjected to said at least one processing solution; c) applying a coating solution on at least one of said front or back sides of said photosensitive material wherein said coating solution is applied by first passing said photosensitive material through a tank containing said coating solution and then using a coating roll to apply said coating solution; d) controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of said applied coating solution based on a viscosity of the coating solution as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied coating solution; and e) drying said photosensitive material.
Claim 97
Independent Claim
160 words
A method for developing an exposed photosensitive material having a front side and a back side and for applying a protective coating thereon, the method comprising the steps of: a) subjecting the exposed photosensitive material to at least one processing solution so as to develop latent images thereon; b) removing any excess processing solution from the photosensitive material after it has been subjected to said at least one processing solution; c) applying a coating solution on at least one of said front or back sides of said photosensitive material wherein said coating solution is applied by first passing said photosensitive material through a tank containing said coating solution and then using a coating roll to apply said coating solution; d) controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of said applied coating solution based on a viscosity of the coating solution as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied coating solution; and e) drying said photosensitive material.
Claim 98
Independent Claim
156 words
A method for developing an exposed photosensitive material having a front side and a back side and for applying a protective coating thereon, the method comprising the steps of: a) subjecting the exposed photosensitive material to at least one processing solution so as to develop latent images thereon; b) removing any excess processing solution from the photosensitive material after it has been subjected to said at least one processing solution; c) applying a coating solution on at least one of said front or back sides of said photosensitive material; d) controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of said applied coating solution based on a viscosity of the coating solution using a metering roller so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied coating solution so as to provide a wet laydown amount of the solution within the range of 0.6 to 600 cc/m 2 ; and e) drying said photosensitive material.
Claim 99
Independent Claim
156 words
A method for developing an exposed photosensitive material having a front side and a back side and for applying a protective coating thereon, the method comprising the steps of: a) subjecting the exposed photosensitive material to at least one processing solution so as to develop latent images thereon; b) removing any excess processing solution from the photosensitive material after it has been subjected to said at least one processing solution; c) applying a coating solution on at least one of said front or back sides of said photosensitive material; d) controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of said applied coating solution based on a viscosity of the coating solution using a metering roller so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied coating solution so as to provide a wet laydown amount of the solution within the range of 0.6 to 600 cc/m 2 ; and e) drying said photosensitive material.
Claim 100
Independent Claim
156 words
A method for developing an exposed photosensitive material having a front side and a back side and for applying a protective coating thereon, the method comprising the steps of: a) subjecting the exposed photosensitive material to at least one processing solution so as to develop latent images thereon; b) removing any excess processing solution from the photosensitive material after it has been subjected to said at least one processing solution; c) applying a coating solution on at least one of said front or back sides of said photosensitive material; d) controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of said applied coating solution based on a viscosity of the coating solution using a metering roller so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied coating solution so as to provide a wet laydown amount of the solution within the range of 0.3 to 6 g/m 2 ; and e) drying said photosensitive material.
Claim 101
Independent Claim
156 words
A method for developing an exposed photosensitive material having a front side and a back side and for applying a protective coating thereon, the method comprising the steps of: a) subjecting the exposed photosensitive material to at least one processing solution so as to develop latent images thereon; b) removing any excess processing solution from the photosensitive material after it has been subjected to said at least one processing solution; c) applying a coating solution on at least one of said front or back sides of said photosensitive material; d) controlling a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of said applied coating solution based on a viscosity of the coating solution using a metering roller so as to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied coating solution so as to provide a wet laydown amount of the solution within the range of 0.3 to 6 g/m 2 ; and e) drying said photosensitive material.
Claim 102
Independent Claim
139 words
An apparatus for applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to provide for a protective coating on the materials, the apparatus comprising: a first applicator which applies a layer of viscous solution to at least one surface of the material; and a first controller which controls a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the material, to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied viscous solution, wherein said first controller comprises a metering roller rotatably mounted in a tank which holds said viscous solution said first controller comprising a metering roller rotatably mounted in a tank which holds said viscous solution, said metering roller contacting said at least one surface of the material having the viscous solution thereon.
Claim 103
Independent Claim
139 words
An apparatus for applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to provide for a protective coating on the materials, the apparatus comprising: a first applicator which applies a layer of viscous solution to at least one surface of the material; and a first controller which controls a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the material, to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied viscous solution, wherein said first controller comprises a metering roller rotatably mounted in a tank which holds said viscous solution said first controller comprising a metering roller rotatably mounted in a tank which holds said viscous solution, said metering roller contacting said at least one surface of the material having the viscous solution thereon.
Claim 104
Independent Claim
126 words
An apparatus for applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to provide for a protective coating on the materials, the apparatus comprising: a first applicator which applies a layer of viscous solution to at least one surface of the material; and a first controller which controls a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the material, to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied viscous solution, wherein said first controller comprises a metering roller rotatably mounted in a tank which holds said viscous solution using an air knife which directs air to said at least one surface of the material having a viscous solution thereon.
Claim 105
Independent Claim
126 words
An apparatus for applying at least one solution of a predetermined viscosity to processed photosensitive materials so as to provide for a protective coating on the materials, the apparatus comprising: a first applicator which applies a layer of viscous solution to at least one surface of the material; and a first controller which controls a thickness, uniformity and laydown amount of the applied viscous solution on the at least one surface of the material, to provide for a uniform specific layer thickness of said applied viscous solution, wherein said first controller comprises a metering roller rotatably mounted in a tank which holds said viscous solution using an air knife which directs air to said at least one surface of the material having a viscous solution thereon.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
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