Leader block assembly with snap-in feature for a data storage tape cartridge

A data storage tape cartridge comprising:

• a housing defining an enclosure;
• at least one tape reel assembly disposed within the enclosure, the tape reel assembly including a hub;
• a storage tape wrapped about the hub;
• and
• a leader block assembly secured onto a leading end of the storage tape, the leader block assembly including:
• a leader block defining a leading section and a trailing section, the trailing section forming a channel defined by opposing sidewalls extending from a base, wherein each of the opposing sidewalls forms a lip opposite the base, each lip having an under surface,
• a tape clamp nested within the channel, the tape clamp including a bottom surface and opposing sides each having at least one cantilevered leg extending upwardly relative to the bottom surface,
• an elastomeric member disposed between the leader block and the tape clamp for biasing the tape clamp to a locked position in which the legs engage the under surface of the respective lip and the leading end of the storage tape is secured to the leader block assembly.

A method of assembling a leader block assembly for securing a leading end of a storage tape, the method comprising:

• providing a leader block forming a channel defined by opposing sidewalls extending from a base, each sidewall forming a lip opposite the base and having an under surface;
• providing a tape clamp including a central body, defining a bottom surface and opposing sides, and at least one cantilevered leg extending upwardly relative to the bottom surface at each of the respective sides;
• providing an elastomeric member;
• positioning the elastomeric member at the bottom surface of the tape clamp;
• positioning the tape clamp adjacent the channel;
• directing the bottom surface of the tape clamp toward the base of the leader block, wherein the legs deflect inwardly along the lips;
• and
• achieving a final assembly position in which the tape clamp is nested within the channel and the legs elastically return to an unloaded position, wherein the elastomeric member biases the tape clamp to a locked state in which the legs engage the under surface of the respective lip.