Reader-filler machine for inserting film strips into microfiche jackets

Abstract

A reader-filler machine adapted to insert a discrete strip of microfilm having a series of image frames into a selected channel of a microfiche jacket. The jacket is provided with parallel channels each having an entry slot adjacent the front end. The machine includes a film drive mechanism which cooperates with an optical viewer. The film strip is advanced by the mechanism along the track of a track block which terminates adjacent the front end of a pivoted table which is spring-loaded. The block includes a pair of pressure fingers projecting from either side of the track exit and a pair of flat locating guides flanking the fingers. In operation, the user first tilts the table downwardly with respect to the track exit and places the jacket thereon to cause the guides to enter the channels on opposite sides of the channel to be loaded, thereby orienting the selected channel with respect to the track exit. The table is then released to cause the pressure fingers to engage the borders of the selected channel and to bring the entry slot of this channel into registration with the track exit. The drive mechanism is then operated to advance the film strip or a section thereof into the selected channel, the frames on the strip being optically viewable to determine the point at which the strip is to be severed.