Tape cartridge positioning and ejection device

A tape cartridge positioning and ejection device for use in a magnetic tape recording and reproduction apparatus of a type wherein a tape cartridge loaded along a horizontal passage into the apparatus is selectively moved between a first position for insertion and ejection of the tape cartridge and a second position for recording and reproduction thereof, said tape cartridge positioning and ejection device comprising;

• a frame member for receiving the tape cartridge therein pivotally disposed along one side of the horizontal passage for selective movements between said first and second positions,
• a rack lever member having a rack and claw means which engages a reel hub opening of the tape cartridge upon insertion of the tape cartridge into said frame member, said rack lever member being moved along said horizontal passage in a first direction by insertion of the tape cartridge against tension of a first spring means which normally urges said rack lever member in a second direction opposite to said first direction,
• a pinion gear in mesh with the rack of said rack lever member,
• a crank lever member pivotally connected at one end thereof to an eccentric point on said pinion gear, and
• a second spring means having tension larger than that of said first spring means for urging said crank lever member in said second direction, said rack lever member being moved in said first direction by insertion of the tape cartridge into said frame member thereby rotating said pinion gear a predetermined degree in one direction to bring said crank lever member into crank motion through tension of said second spring means, said pinion gear further moving said rack lever member in said first direction in an attracted manner through said crank motion to bring the tape cartridge into a fully inserted position, frame locking means providing associated simultaneous pivotal movement of said frame member to said second position upon said full insertion, cartridge ejection means reduce the tension of said second spring means thereby rotating said pinion gear in the other direction to return said rack lever member in said second direction through the tension of said first spring means, with associated simultaneous pivotal movement of said frame member to said first position for ejection of the tape cartridge.