Dynamic magnetic information storage or retrieval – Record transport with head stationary during transducing – Tape record
Reexamination Certificate
2000-05-04
2001-05-08
Cao, Allen T. (Department: 2754)
Dynamic magnetic information storage or retrieval
Record transport with head stationary during transducing
Tape record
C369S036010
Reexamination Certificate
active
06229667
ABSTRACT:
TECHNICAL FIELD
This invention relates to data storage libraries, and more particularly to a data storage library with a cartridge access mechanism for identifying, loading, and unloading cartridges maintained within the library.
BACKGROUND ART
A popular device for handling large amounts of information in a data processing system is the data storage library. These systems store and manage large numbers of cartridges containing magnetic tape on which data is recorded. Typically, a data storage library is comprised of arrays of uniquely identified storage cells, each cell being formed to contain a single tape cartridge. The cell arrays each hold a plurality of tape cartridges, and each tape cartridge has some kind of identifying information, such as a label or bar code. Typically, the arrays surround a robotic arm which has an optical system, for selecting cartridges, and is operable to locate a particular storage cell and retrieve and transport a tape cartridge therefrom.
Given the large capacity of data storage libraries, there is a continual need for an operator to load and unload cartridges from the library. One conventional technique is to implement a small access port which consists of a bank of storage cells mounted to a panel which rotates out from the storage area to present itself to an operator on the outside of the library enclosure. This technique is time consuming, since the access port must be opened many times to accomplish a full capacity load. In addition, the storage capacity of the library is reduced by the number of fixed storage cells replaced by the panel. Furthermore, such an access port often requires additional, costly motorized components.
For mass loading and unloading of large numbers of cartridges, more direct access to the cartridges contained within the library, such as through an access door, is preferable. However, each array is usually positioned so that the front of the array, the side from which the cartridges may be identified and accessed, faces the robotic arm. Since the arrays are typically mounted in close proximity to each other and surrounding the robotic arm, the arrays adjacent the access door have their backs facing the operator, denying the operator access to the cartridges or visibility of the cartridge identification labels.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a data storage library with a cartridge access mechanism which facilitates easy viewing and access of cartridges within the library.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a data storage library with a cartridge access mechanism which allows for convenient mass loading and unloading of cartridges.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a cartridge access mechanism which minimizes the loss of storage capacity in the data storage library.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a cartridge access mechanism that operates reliably within a data storage library without the need for additional motors and associated electronics.
Accordingly, a data storage library is provided which comprises a housing with an access door provided therein. A plurality of cartridge storage arrays are mounted within the housing, wherein the front of each array is positioned to face an internal space of the housing, preferably occupied by a robotic arm. In this configuration, cartridges contained within the arrays are generally unable to be accessed by an operator. Of the plurality of cartridge storage arrays, at least one array is movable. A rotating mechanism is coupled to the movable array, and the rotating mechanism is operable to turn the movable array from a first position inside the housing and facing the internal space, to a second position inside the housing and facing at least partially away from the internal space, allowing cartridges contained within the plurality of cartridge storage arrays to be accessed by the operator through the access door. In a preferred embodiment, the rotating mechanism comprises a linkage arm pivotally connecting the access door to the movable array, wherein opening the access door rotates the linkage arm to turn the movable array from the first position to the second position.
REFERENCES:
patent: 4779151 (1988-10-01), Lind et al.
patent: 4907889 (1990-03-01), Simone
patent: 4937690 (1990-06-01), Yamashita et al.
patent: 5128817 (1992-07-01), Herger et al.
patent: 5278708 (1994-01-01), Apple et al.
patent: 5336030 (1994-08-01), Ostwald et al.
patent: 5454485 (1995-10-01), Dalziel
patent: 5498116 (1996-03-01), Woodruff et al.
patent: 5508859 (1996-04-01), Hu et al.
patent: 5546315 (1996-08-01), Kleinschnitz
patent: 5640288 (1997-06-01), Horie
Bailey Wayne P.
Cao Allen T.
Storage Technology Corporation
LandOfFree
Data storage library with cartridge access mechanism does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.
If you have personal experience with Data storage library with cartridge access mechanism, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Data storage library with cartridge access mechanism will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-2489237