초록 ▼

The present invention discloses methods and apparatus for use in a mass memory data storage system. The present invention includes a gripper assembly having a roller-inserter, which permits contact with a data cartridge to be retrieved from or archived in said data storage system. The present invent

The present invention discloses methods and apparatus for use in a mass memory data storage system. The present invention includes a gripper assembly having a roller-inserter, which permits contact with a data cartridge to be retrieved from or archived in said data storage system. The present invention also includes methods to inventory cartridges in said data storage system using the roller-inserter to provide for a contact method of inventory. The present invention also provides for teach-mode probe functions and real-time cartridge position locators.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An apparatus for use in archival and retrieval of data cartridges to and from a storage library, said storage library comprising a plurality of storage bins in which said data cartridges are maintained, comprising:a carriage assembly positioned adjacent to said storage bi

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An apparatus for use in archival and retrieval of data cartridges to and from a storage library, said storage library comprising a plurality of storage bins in which said data cartridges are maintained, comprising:a carriage assembly positioned adjacent to said storage bins and selectively movable between said storage bins to position said carriage assembly adjacent to a desired one of said storage bins;first and second finger members supported by said carriage assembly for movement therewith, said first and second finger members being configured with at least one of said first and second finger members selectively movable relative to the other to selectively grip and release a desired one of said data cartridges therebetween, said first finger member disposed in opposing relation to said second finger member to grip said desired one of said data cartridges therebetween when said at least one of said first and second finger members is moved toward the other;a first motive source operatively connected to said at least one of said first and second finger members to move said at least one of said first and second finger members relative to the other to selectively grip or release said desired one of said data cartridges therebetween;a roller-inserter supported by said carriage assembly for movement therewith and in position to contact said data cartridge in said desired one of said storage bins adjacent to which said carriage assembly is positioned, said roller-inserter being located between said first and second finger members, said roller-inserter being movably mounted to move toward said carriage assembly in response to contact with said data cartridge in said desired one of said storage bins adjacent to which said carriage assembly is positioned; andat least one sensor supported by said carriage assembly for movement therewith and in position to sense contact of said roller-inserter with said data cartridge in said desired one of said storage bins adjacent to which said carriage assembly is positioned.