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:
Oct. 10, 1995
Filed:
Jul. 19, 1994
Warren L Dalziel, Monte Sereno, CA (US);
Storage Technology Corporation, Louisville, CO (US);
Abstract
A bidirectional manipulator is disclosed for use in removal and replacement of data tape cartridges from the carousel of an automatic cartridge library system. The manipulators carry hinged hooks that can be used to push cartridges radially outward, or upon flexing of the hinges, expand to grip the cartridge for pulling radially inward. A lightweight carousel is also disclosed, featuring a system of guide blocks and springs to hold tape cartridges securely but permit their removal and replacement by the bidirectional manipulators. A reflective optical sensor is used to confirm that each cartridge in the carousel is properly placed. Optical sensors also verify proper rotation of the carousel, index the carousel, and detect the presence of cartridges in the tape drives. The carousel carries drive pins which seat in tapered holes in an index plate, and is driven by a zero-backlash belt.