Abstract: The robotic docking apparatus for a cartridge library system having a cartridge Storage array provides a docking apparatus on the robotic arm that mates with corresponding features on the storage compartments. The docking apparatus enables the cartridge retrieval mechanism to automatically and precisely align with the storage compartment that contains the selected data cartridge by using passive alignment mechanisms and without requiring the use of a vision system or expensive tight mechanical tolerances. The robotic docking apparatus is incorporated into the robotic arm in the form of a docking feature that protrudes from the front of the cartridge retrieval mechanism. The docking feature is of length sufficient to begin engagement of the mating docking receptacle formed in each of the storage compartments in the storage array prior to the remainder of the cartridge retrieval mechanism contacting the data cartridge stored therein.

Abstract: A data storage library having two inward facing storage arrays and two outward (i.e., back to back) facing arrays between the two inward facing arrays, such that an access device positioned to access one of the outward facing arrays can perform a rotation to be positioned to access one of the inward facing arrays. Thus a single access device can access all four arrays only by performing translations and rotations as necessary.

Abstract: A system and method for distributing electrical power to an automated robotic device for transporting media cartridges in a data storage library. The system and method include a power distribution strip having a substantially planar insulating member with opposed first and second sides, and first and second oppositely charged electrical conductors on the opposed first and second sides for providing power to the robotic device. The system and method also include multiple contacts on the robotic device for contacting the first and second conductors. The multiple contacts include a first pair of contacts for contacting the first conductor and a second pair of contacts for contacting the second conductor. At least one of the first pair of contacts and at least one of the second pair of contacts maintain contact with the first and second conductors, respectively, as the robotic device moves in the library.

Abstract: An array and method for standardizing the location of cartridges within a data storage library are provided. The array includes at least one storage cell for receiving at least a portion of a cartridge, where the storage cell includes a first side wall and a second side wall substantially parallel to the first side wall, and the first side wall has a resilient member that is mountable thereon. Upon insertion of a cartridge into the storage cell, the resilient member is operable to engage a first side face of the cartridge and dispose a second side face of the cartridge in contact with the second side wall, defining a reference width position. Depending on the dimensions of the cartridge, either a back abutment or at least one stop extending generally perpendicularly from the first or second side wall preferably engages a back face of the cartridge to limit its depth within the storage cell, such that a reference depth position forward from the storage cell is established.

Abstract: A compact high speed gripper assembly includes a simple design with minimal components while providing flexibility for grasping variously sized cartridges. The gripper assembly includes a frame, a rotary solenoid secured to the frame, and first and second gripper jaws movably connected to the frame for movement in opening and closing directions for gripping a cartridge. Each gripper jaw includes a cam surface formed thereon. First and second followers are driven by the rotary solenoid and engaged with the respective cam surface for actuating jaw movement.

Abstract: A data cartridge shuttle apparatus (100) is used to permit a robotic hand (40) to insert and remove a data cartridge (246) into and out of a manual cartridge drive mechanism (20). A pawl and lever linkage (104) is rotated to open and close a handle (26) of the tape drive mechanism by contact with a pawl stop (134), which is mounted on a spring-biased sliding block/plate assembly (106). The sliding block/plate assembly has a triangular clasp (228) that engages the data cartridge for extraction of the tape cartridge from the drive bay to a point where the robotic hand can grasp and remove it.

Abstract: For primary use in a storage and retrieval subsystem in a data processing system, a robotic transfer system acts to transfer selected electronic magnetic storage cartridges between their storage and transducing positions, typically between vertically stacked concentric tape storage holders and a selected tape drive. The robotic transfer system for handling tape cartridges includes two hands, each mounted on a separate vertical axis disposed at opposite ends of a balanced rotating horizontal axis, such that no tape cartridge is ever more than 90.degree. away from the nearest hand. The use of two hands also provides a redundant data retrieval capability without concentrating the weight of two hands at a single end of a revolving horizontal arm, thus reducing the moments generated by angular movement and providing for faster tape access time and greater long-term system reliability.

Abstract: A housing having a spindle mount for mounting a spindle supporting magnetic disks for a magnetic data storage disk system. A bearing cap having seals is mounted on the exterior of the housing. A spindle clamp having a male bayonet mount is inserted through the bearing cap and engages a mounting cup having a female bayonet mount. A belleville washer is mounted onto the clamp between the bearing cap and the head portion of the clamp. The clamp and cup are designed so that the washer is compressed as the bayonet mount engages. This exerts a constant uniform pressure on the bearing cup as well as restraining the bayonet mounting from disengaging. The bearing cap is held tightly against the exterior of the housing as well to seal the bearing and the inner housing from the exterior environment.

Abstract: A self contained gold training device designed to be integral with, or attached to and detached from the head of any golf club, gives a golfer an exact indication of the point of impact of the face of a golf club with a golf ball. The training device includes a housing which supports one or more impact sensitive transducers which generates an electric signal upon impact, an electronic circuit for determining if a transducer has received an impact, a display system responsive to the electronic circuit for signaling if a transducer has received an impact, a source of electrical power; and, in detachable systems, means for connecting and disconnecting the device to a golf club head.