Cassette shell modification and method of assembly and use

Abstract

A cassette shell modification and method of assembly and use thereof comprises providing apertures in each cassette half shell adjacent support structure for tape spool hubs as normally provided within a completed cassette. These apertures, added to what is basically a conventional cassette assembly, provide for better and easier assembly of the overall cassette, and also the loading thereof with desired tape material after completion of assembly. By applying vacuum to a washer mounted internally of a cassette half shell during initial assembly of the overall cassette, the washer can be secured against the inner side of the shell. This is especially desirable if and when the washer is of textured configuration, either convexly or concavely curved, of varying thickness and weights, or is a creased or otherwise damaged normally smooth and flat washer. Thus, the overall assembly of the cassette can be effected quicker and easier. Then again after the cassette is completely assembled and ready for loading of magnetic tape onto the tape spool hubs mounted in the cassette and between the associated washer structure, air under pressure can be applied to either one or both sides of the cassette, and thus exert pressure of the washers against the tape spool hubs and the tape material being wound thereupon. This applies with the cassette being loaded in both the horizontal and vertical position. In the horizontal position, air under pressure need only be applied to the upper side of the cassette, while in the vertical position, air is preferably applied to both sides thereof.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.