Video cassette integral actuator/reel lock/spring

Abstract

An integral actuator/reel lock/spring for a video cassette is described, including: (a) a lock body having a first end and a second end, an inclined opening at the first end to receive a tape player/recorder pin, lateral wings, angled grooves and a lead in for a self-centering rib in the cassette base; and (b) a spring bar connected centrally at the second end of the lock body, the spring bar including a pawl and a lower dog leg combination formed at each end. The lock body is received in the cassette base in an area defined by: (a) a first, elongated, central portion having parallel side walls, between which is formed a self-centering rib; and (b) a pair of lateral, substantially triangular walled portions, each spaced from the central portion. The lock body fits substantially within the central portion with the wings extending above the parallel walls, the grooves resting on the parallel walls, the spring bar extending across the parallel walls, the pawls pivotably mounted against the lateral portions and the dog legs underlaying the reels. In the 'locked' position, the biasing spring bar normally urges the lock body inward in the central portion. The pawls contact by ratchet action teeth formed on the circumference of each bottom reel flange. During the locked condition, the reel lock has the ability to pivot to each side of a center line of the central portion to move with shifting reels. When the cassette is placed in the player/recorder, a pin of the tape player/recorder enters the inclined opening and forces the lock body against the forece of the spring arm. Only at this time does the lead-in receive the selt-centering rib to direct the lock body backwardly along the center line. Also, the spring arm becomes more curved, pulling the pawls toward the center line and out of ratchet engagement with the teeth so that the lock body enters the unlocked position.