Photographic processing apparatus with quick-coupling processing liquid storage container

摘要

Processing liquid supply system for the processing vessel of photographic processing apparatus wherein fresh processing liquid is delivered from and used liquid returned to a liquid storage container via corresponding conduits which may each include a liquid flow pump. The container is equipped with a push-in/pull-out cap penetrated by passageways communicating with the conduits. The cap is insertable into the container mouth and has an expandable resilient seal around its periphery for sealing engagement when expanded with the internal surface of the container mouth. A handle is pivoted on the cap for movement between cap-sealed and cap-unsealed positions. The cap has an internal piston which is linked to the handle and is displaced axially when the handle is pivoted between its positions to thereby alternatively compress the seal to expand the same and seal the container mouth and relax the seal for removal of the cap from the container. The cap can be supported on a support plate pivoted for up and down movement on the apparatus frame to thereby insert and remove the cap into and from the mouth of a container arranged beneath the plate. A liquid-filled container can be conveniently wheeled into and out of the apparatus by means of a trolley. The cap handle can have an extension adapted when the handle is pivoted to its cap sealed position to activate an electrical switch and energize a signal to indicate the position of the handle.