Variable volume container for processing photographic materials

Abstract

Apparatus and method for processing a material, such as photographic film, by the application of fluids. The film is placed within a substantially cylindrical and hollow container. One end of this container is provided with a removable cover assembly. The cover assembly comprises a funnel through which fluids can be poured and a detachable cap to fit over the funnel forming an impermeable seal. A plug assembly is insertable into the opposite end of the cylinder and movable along the longitudinal axis thereof. The movement of the plug assembly varies the volume within the cylinder defined by the cover assembly, the inner walls of the cylinder and the plug assembly. The plug assembly is also lockable or securable so that it will form an impermeable seal at any position along the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. Therefore, the volume of the film container can be varied to correspond to the amount of film being processed. Since both ends of the film container are open, the plug assembly and cap element of the cover assembly can be removed and water run continuously in the unplugged opening and out of the uncapped opening providing a continuous fresh wash for the film in the container. The entire assembly provides thermal inertia to facilitate film processing, even with minimum amounts of chemicals, at controlled temperatures.