Patent · US Expired

Multiple cartridge tape auto loader utilizing a drive plate for positioning of drive mechanism

US6038099A · kind A · utility

17Cited by
10References
15Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJul 14, 1997
Grant dateMar 14, 2000
Priority date
Expiry dateJul 14, 2017

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC G)Physics
  • CPC primaryG11B17/30
  • WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
  • WIPO sectorElectrical engineering

Abstract

A compact tape autoloader fitting within a 51/4" form factor is disclosed. The tape autoloader moves a read/write head into close proximity with a selected one of a plurality of tape cartridges stored in a magazine. The tape cartridge is then moved a small distance for read/write operations. The tape cartridge is retained/released by a cartridge retaining mechanism. A picking mechanism engages the tape cartridge for movement to/from the magazine. A clamping mechanism clamps the released tape cartridge into a specific location in alignment with the read/write head. A cartridge door opening mechanism opens a tape cartridge door so that the tape can be brought into engagement with the read/write head.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.