Method and apparatus for automatically self-cleaning film processors

Abstract

An automatic film processor with self-cleaning capability is provided with a built-in self-cleaning system which utilizes an automatic cycle timer to control a series of events comprising the overall sequential cleaning cycle of the film processor. When activated, the cycle timer, in conjunction with discrete draining means using solenoid operated valves, circulating system means, refilling system means and other interconnections between the various sections constituting the processor, runs the film processor through a series of sequential cleaning events involving the drainage of the developer and fixer compartments, the filling up of these compartments with cold tap water, activating the transport system and rotating the transport rollers, pumping the water throughout the circulation system and warming the water as this event continues, draining the developer and fixer compartments of the rinse water, refilling the developer and fixer departments with fresh chemical solutions from containers located externally from the processing system, refilling the wash water compartment and allowing the wash water to overflow in order to flush the exhausted chemicals down and away from the film processor. The cycle timer is programmed to allot a predefined period of time for each of these cleaning events and then the cleaning cycle ends and the processor is ready to resume its normal film processing operations. A special scrubber pad is also provided and is so positioned that it frictionally coacts with the transport rollers during the cleaning procedure and serves to keep the rollers clean of dried chemicals.