Film flattening apparatus and method

摘要: Film flattening apparatus (10) and method wherein a base (30) having flat surface (32) contacts the film (12) as it moves thereacross in given direction, an aperture (34) defined therein, respective portions (50, 52) of vicinity lateral edges (36, 38) define contacting surfaces (54, 56) each curvature sufficient to provide column strength is moved thereabove, flattener elements (84) substantially near longitudi-nal (40, 42) apply edge force outwardly longitudinal edges. Edge guides (110a, 110b) contact opposite (16, 18) one portions, first second deflectors can be provided adjacent corresponding ones for deflecting along serpentine path. An optical notch detector operatively associated with portions.