Automatic library system with data cartridge carousel

Abstract

A data library system is disclosed, having a lightweight carousel featuring a system of guide blocks and springs to hold tape cartridges securely but permit their removal and replacement by bidirectional manipulators. The manipulators carry hinged hooks that can be used to push cartridges radially outward, or upon flexing of the hinges, expand to grip the cartridge for pulling radially inward. A rotating express port is disclosed for addition or removal of single cartridges without the need to dismount the carousel from the library system. The express port is designed to prevent cartridges from being inserted in the wrong orientation, and a reflective optical sensor is used to confirm that each cartridge in the carousel is properly placed. Optical sensors also verify proper rotation of the carousel, index the carousel, and detect the presence of cartridges in the tape drives and express port. The carousel carries drive pins which seat in tapered holes in an index plate, and is driven by a zero-backlash belt.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.