Unique tray geometry to allow for vertical loading of optical disc in optical drive

Abstract

Unique geometry is utilized within a disc receptacle of an optical drive to hold an optical disc within the receptacle when oriented vertically. In a preferred embodiment, rim projections strategically positioned along the rim of a cavity for receiving a disc within the receptacle maintain a disc within the receptacle. In a preferred embodiment, a first rim projection is positioned on the rim at angle &thgr;,from 10-80 degrees from a horizontal diameter line of the cavity, and a second rim projection is positioned on the rim at angle &thgr;,from 10-80 degrees from a horizontal diameter line of the cavity. Moreover, in a preferred embodiment such rim projections are substantially wedge shaped and protrude from the rim at a strategic angle to maintain a disc within the receptacle. In a preferred embodiment, such rim projections protrude from the rim at an angle &agr; having a value selected from 2 to 20 degrees. In a most preferred embodiment, such rim projections are both radially and elevationally fixed on the rim. In a preferred embodiment, a user can easily place a disc into a vertically oriented receptacle with little effort and little potential for damaging the disc. Furthermore, utilizing such rim projections allows for an optical drive having an industrially desirable, low profile design. Also, in a preferred embodiment, the receptacle can be oriented either horizontally or vertically, and such rim projections allow for effective loading/unloading with either orientation.