Simple Automatic Scanner for Spark Chamber Photographs

Abstract

An automatic scanner useful for analyzing the photographs of some spark chamber systems is described. The images of all spark chamber gaps must be aligned with the edge of the film. The film is transported at constant speed and spark positions are recorded as the times the sparks pass fixed sensors; one per gap. Digitization along the gaps is accomplished by interpolating with clock pulses between marks on a uniform scale photographed on each frame. Output is on punched cards but conversion to magnetic tape is planned.