The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Aug. 02, 1994
Filed:
May. 13, 1993
David T Hoge, Westminster, CO (US);
John C Owens, Arvada, CO (US);
Storage Technology Corporation, Louisville, CO (US);
Abstract
A linear threading apparatus for threading a tape through a predetermined path in a tape transport mechanism. The tape transport mechanism typically has an elevator assembly to receive a single-reel tape cartridge having a web of tape and a leader block, a tape drive assembly for reading and writing data on the tape, and a take-up reel assembly for receiving the tape. The linear threading mechanism includes a platform having a cam track positioned above the predetermined path that the tape is to travel. The platform has a linear bearing mechanism which provides a linear track from a point proximate to the elevator assembly to a point proximate to the take-up reel. A linear arm is attached to and travels freely over the linear bearing mechanism. Pivotally attached to the linear arm is a threading arm which is coupled with and travels in the cam track as the linear arm travels along the linear bearing mechanism. The linear arm is connected to and controlled by a belt and motor assembly. The cam track has a profile such that the threading arm properly positions the leader block of the tape along the predetermined path as the threading arm travels along said cam track.