Method and apparatus for calibrating and/or testing a photographic camera

Photographic apparatus comprising:

• a camera having a chamber adapted to receive a conventional film cartridge having a surface provided with a code pattern;
• a microprocessor for controlling the operation of said camera, said microprocessor having a first mode of operation for recording an image on light sensitive film and a second mode of operation for facilitating calibration and/or testing of the camera;
• a cartridge facsimile similar in size and shape to said film cartridge to be inserted into said camera in place of said film cartridge;
• circuit means having predetermined electrical characteristics attached to said cartridge facsimile;
• sensing means for sensing said code pattern and for sensing said electrical characteristics attached to said cartridge facsimile;
• and
• means responsive to sensing of said code pattern by said sensing means for rendering said microprocessor operative in said first mode, and to sensing of said electrical characteristics by said sensing means for rendering said microprocessor operative in said second mode.

A method for calibrating and/or inspecting a taking lens in a conventional photographic camera having a microprocessor, said method comprising the steps;

• A. providing a cartridge facsimile having an electrical circuit attached thereto;
• B. inserting said cartridge facsimile into the photographic camera in place of a conventional film cartridge;
• C. detecting the presence of said electrical circuit by the microprocessor in the photographic camera;
• D. unlatching a shutter opening blade in response to a signal sent by the microprocessor to uncover the taking lens;
• E. inspecting the taking lens;
• F. moving the taking lens into a calibrated position;
• G. unlatching a shutter closing blade in response to another signal sent by the microprocessor to cover the taking lens;
• H. resetting said shutter blades to their initial positions.