Tape In Container Patents (Class 360/92.1)
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Patent number: 8213109Abstract: A storage apparatus includes at least one device insertion section, at least one robot, a replacement detection section, a first determination section, and a movement section. A device can be inserted into the device insertion section. The robot has a moving mechanism. The replacement detection section detects a start of the replacement of the device. When it is detected by the replacement detection section that the replacement of the device is started, the first determination section determines a position of the device insertion section at which the device is replaced. The movement section moves the robot so as to close an opening formed by removal of the device from the device insertion section based on the determination result of the first determination section.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2009Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Shinobu Sasaki
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Patent number: 8199424Abstract: A library apparatus includes a housing having an opening, a cell unit including a plurality of cells for storing a storage medium, a drive unit for writing data into or reading data from the storage medium, a medium transportation unit for accessing each of the cells and the drive unit and for transporting the storage medium between the cells and between each of the cells and the drive unit, a cell unit driver for moving the cell unit in vertical direction, and a controller for driving the cell unit driver to move the cell unit through the opening to a position accessible by a medium transportation unit of another library apparatus stacked in vertical direction.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2010Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Tsuneyoshi Oohara
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Patent number: 8199433Abstract: A tape cartridge includes a housing and a length of magnetic tape disposed within the housing. Additionally, the tape cartridge includes at least one cartridge memory chip disposed within the housing and at least one RFID reader operably connected to at least one of the cartridge memory chips and configured to write at least one message to the cartridge memory chip based on a received RFID signal.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2008Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventor: Randolph E. Stiarwalt
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Publication number: 20120127606Abstract: Apparatus and associated method for loading a first tape cartridge into a tape drive, the first tape cartridge formatted to include a user data partition and also to include an index partition, different than and sized smaller than the user data partition, to store an index that self-describes user data designated to the user data partition and to also store non-index data, then reading the non-index data in the index partition of the first tape cartridge to self-describe a second tape cartridge different than the first tape cartridge.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2012Publication date: May 24, 2012Applicant: Spectra Logic CorporationInventor: Matthew Thomas Starr
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Publication number: 20120127607Abstract: A storage library is described that includes a shelf system adapted to support a number of tape cartridges. The storage library further includes a tape drive adapted to read and write data to and from tape cartridges. The storage library further possesses a temporary repository near the tape drive that is adapted to facilitate an exchange of a first tape cartridge intended to be loaded in the tape drive with a second tape cartridge ready to be removed from the tape drive with a single tape picker device.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2010Publication date: May 24, 2012Applicant: Spectra Logic CorporationInventors: Nathan Christopher Thompson, Matthew Thomas Starr
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Patent number: 8179630Abstract: A storage slot for multiple data storage cartridges, comprising a planar member having a first end, a second end, a side interconnecting the first end and the second end, and a gate moveably connected to the side at the first end of the planar member, wherein the gate can be moved between a closed position and an open position. The storage slot farther comprises a secondary catch moveably disposed between the first end and the second end. When the gate is disposed in a closed position, the secondary catch is disposed in a retracted orientation, and when the gate is disposed in an open position, the secondary catch is disposed in an extended orientation.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2008Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Shawn Michael Nave, Raymond Yardy
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Patent number: 8174787Abstract: A library apparatus includes a storage shelf including a first movable shelf and a second movable shelf each having a plurality of rows and columns of cells in which storage mediums are to be stored, a drive unit being disposed such that a direction of access to the drive unit for inserting/ejecting of one of the storage mediums is the same as a direction of access to the storage shelf, a conveyor for conveying one of the storage mediums between the storage shelf and the drive unit, and a movement control unit for controlling to lift a specific row of cells of the first movable shelf to produce a space and to move horizontally a specific row of cells of the second movable shelf to a position in the space accessible by the conveyor.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2011Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Kohjiro Hashimoto
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Patent number: 8175745Abstract: A method to audit portable cassettes removeably disposed in a data storage library comprising a plurality of storage slots, a plurality of portable cassettes removeably disposed in one or more of said plurality of storage slots, and a pass-through accessor comprising a moveable fixturing apparatus, wherein the pass-through accessor is moveably disposed in said data storage library. The method disposes the pass-through accessor adjacent a first one of said plurality of storage slots, removes a first portable cassette from the first storage slot, and attaches the first portable cassette to a first fixturing assembly disposed on the fixturing apparatus. The method then removes a second portable cassette from the first storage slot, and attaches the second portable cassette to a second fixturing assembly disposed on the fixturing apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2009Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Matthew Charles Compton, Louis Daniel Echevarria, Stefan Lehmann, Richard Albert Welp
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Patent number: 8169737Abstract: A tape library apparatus includes a recording/reproducing unit for accessing data in the tape cartridges, a first driver for producing a driving force, a conveyer for carrying the recording/reproducing unit in the direction of the alignment of the plurality of the tape cartridges, by the driving force produced by the first driver, an identification information reader mounted near the insertion slot and on a surfaces of the tape cartridges, the image identification information being on a surface of each of the tape cartridges which faces opposite to a surface which faces the conveyer, a second driver for moving the tape cartridge in the magazine at opposed position of the conveyer to the recording/reproducing unit, and a controller for controlling the first and second drivers, to move one of the tape cartridges stored in the magazine to a position of the recording/reproduction unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2011Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Tsukasa Minemura
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Patent number: 8154824Abstract: A library device includes: cells each containing a storage medium in a first or a second manner; a medium drive accessing and containing the medium differently from a manner of placing the medium in at least one of the cells; and a medium-transferring unit including a housing section housing the medium, and moving the housing section between the cells and the medium drive to transfer the medium. The unit includes: a support member supporting the housing section pivotably between a first and a second postures meeting the first and second manners; a movement-controlling system moving the support member so that the housing section faces the cells and medium drive; a medium-transferring system transferring the medium; a biasing member biasing the housing section toward the first posture; and a posture-changing member interfering with and thereby pivoting the housing section from the first posture to the second posture resisting the biasing member.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2010Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Kohjiro Hashimoto
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Patent number: 8139313Abstract: A library device comprises a cell, a drive, and an accessor. The cell is capable of accommodating a plurality of cartridges. The drive performs a recording or reproduction of data between the cartridges and the drive. The accessor carries the cartridges between the cell and the drive. The cell is provided with a first rack gear which extends in a direction in which the accommodated cartridges are arranged. The accessor comprises an accessor base and a feed block. The accessor base comprises a second rack gear. The second rack gear extends in the extension direction of the first rack gear. The second rack gear is formed in correspondence with the first rack gear. The feed block comprises a pinion gear, a driving unit, and a holding unit. The pinion gear is meshed with the first and second rack gears. The driving unit drives the pinion gear. The holding unit holds the cartridges.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2009Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignees: NEC Corporation, NEC Personal Products, Ltd.Inventors: Satoshi Wada, Toshimitsu Kawasaki
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Patent number: 8139314Abstract: A pass-through mechanism that couples a first linear tape library string to a second linear tape library string is maintained. A first robotic assembly associated with the first linear tape library string places a tape from the first linear tape library string into the pass-through mechanism. The pass-through mechanism moves the tape to a position where the tape can be removed by a second robotic assembly associated with the second linear tape library string. The second robotic assembly removes the tape from the pass-through mechanism and places the tape into the second linear tape library string.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2011Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Andrew Stuart Green, Frank Krick, Shawn Michael Nave, Raymond Yardy
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Patent number: 8134800Abstract: A stop position adjusting device for an accessor mechanism in an information recording device using a recording cartridge, includes: the accessor mechanism; a first moving mechanism; a second moving mechanism; and an image taking section. The accessor mechanism inserts the recording cartridge into a cell and takes out the recording cartridge from the cell. The first moving mechanism moves the accessor mechanism in a first direction. The second moving mechanism moves the accessor mechanism in a second direction different from the first direction. The image taking section is provided on the accessor mechanism and detects a position of a mark provided near the cell. An adjustment of a stop position of the accessor mechanism for the cell is executed based on the position detected by the image taking section.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2009Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: NEC Embedded Products, Ltd.Inventors: Takeshi Suzuki, Shinichi Iwata
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Patent number: 8134799Abstract: A gripper assembly for use with a media cartridge includes a gripper support and first and second gripper members supported by the gripper support. The gripper members are moveable asymmetrically with respect to the gripper support for gripping the media cartridge.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2004Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Oracle America, Inc.Inventors: Timothy C. Ostwald, Daniel J. Plutt
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Patent number: 8131263Abstract: Aspects of the subject matter described herein relate to using wireless identification tags (e.g., RFID tags) with backup media. In aspects, a wireless identification tag may be attached to, incorporated into, or otherwise associated with backup media, a container holding the backup media, or a location (e.g., a shelf) associated with the backup media. In response to a signal, this wireless identification tag may provide an identifier that uniquely identifies the wireless identification tag. This identifier may be associated with a data set that is stored or to be stored on the backup media. The wireless identification tag may be used to locate the backup media and to identify what is on particular backup media. In some embodiments, the wireless identification tag may store backup information thereon that may be subsequently retrieved and used identify what is on its associated backup media.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2006Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: Serguei N. Endrikhovski, Paul Michel Elrif
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Patent number: 8125730Abstract: The magnetic tape library device is configured, including: a front magazine and a rear magazine for housing a large number of magnetic tape cartridges; a device main body in which the both magazines are housed in a parallel state in a freely slidable manner; an accessor mechanism for transporting the cartridge taken out from the magazines; and a magnetic tape drive which loads the magnetic tape cartridge and reads/writes data. A magazine pullout mechanism for pulling out the rear magazine and a magazine extracting mechanism for extracting the rear magazine from the device main body are provided.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2009Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: NEC CorporationInventors: Shinichi Sudou, Hiroaki Ishii, Satoshi Wada
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Patent number: 8116027Abstract: A library apparatus includes a housing, an insertion and ejection mechanism that is provided in an opening formed in the housing and that is configured to insert and eject a magazine, the magazine being arranged to accommodate a cartridge that includes a storage medium, a drive mechanism configured to access the storage medium and a transporting mechanism configured to transport the cartridge to a predetermined position. The insertion and ejection mechanism includes a magazine receiving section having an engagement section configured to be engaged with a portion of the magazine, a guide rail configured to slidably support the magazine receiving section, and a wall member configured to move together with the magazine receiving section along the guide rail and to close the opening upon an ejection of the magazine from the insertion and ejection mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2008Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Tsuneyoshi Oohara
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Publication number: 20120019958Abstract: A rack•pinion mechanism in which strength of a member to form a rack can be secured and a member including a pinion can be securely moved in a predetermined direction, and an accessor and a magnetic tape apparatus each including the mechanism are provided. For this purpose, in a picker 22, a pair of projections 222a and 222b are formed to sandwich both side surfaces of a pinion 211, the projections 222a and 222b perpendicularly rising toward a base 21 and curving or bending in an intermediate position thereof; in the base 21, a pair of grooves 212a and 212b are formed on both sides of a rack 211 in a shape to engage with the projections 222a and 222b, a section sandwiched by the grooves 212a and 212b is an engage section 213 including the rack 211 in a center of a wide section 213a at a tip end thereof; and by engaging the projections 222a and 222b with the grooves 212a and 212b, the wide section 213a is held between the projections 222a and 222b.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2010Publication date: January 26, 2012Inventor: Yuichi Itamoto
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Patent number: 8102617Abstract: An apparatus for transporting a storage media cartridge in a data storage library is disclosed. The apparatus includes an accessor, a pinion and a rack having a straight section and a curved section. The curved section includes multiple rack teeth that are capable of rotating independently from each other to allow the pinion to travel along the straight section and onto the curved section of the rack, or vice versa, without any interruption.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2008Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Jeffrey L. Thorn, Raymond Yardy
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Patent number: 8059363Abstract: The magazine includes a rail installed on its bottom surface approximately parallel to an insertion/extraction direction, the rail including a plurality of stepped portions formed at a side surface thereof. A device body includes: a lock lever installed rotatably within the same plane as the bottom surface of the magazine, the lock lever including one portion located in a space below the magazine and another portion located beside the magazine; a spring which urges in a direction in which the rail is installed so that a portion of the lock lever located in a space below the magazine is engaged with the stepped portion; and an accessor which moves beside the magazine along the insertion/extraction direction. The lock lever engaged with each stepped portion is released in such a way that the accessor rotates the lock lever in an opposite direction to an urging direction of the spring.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2009Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: NEC Personal Products, Ltd.Inventors: Takeshi Suzuki, Tadashi Kosugi
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Publication number: 20110273794Abstract: A library device includes: a storage shelf including storage units aligned in a plurality of columns; and a conveying robot that grasps and conveys cartridges stored in the storage units, wherein the conveying robot includes: a base board located to face the plurality of columns, one end of the base board being supported movably up and down by a first support post, and another end of the base board being supported movably up and down by a second support post; a movable unit including a grasping unit grasping the cartridges stored in the storage units and moving on the base board; an inclination measuring unit measuring an inclination of the movable unit; and an inclination correction unit adjusting heights of both ends of the base board according to an inclination value of the movable unit measured by the inclination measuring unit and correcting the inclination of the movable unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2011Publication date: November 10, 2011Applicant: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Daisuke HORI
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Publication number: 20110273795Abstract: A library apparatus for conveying, with a conveying device, a cartridge storing data between a cartridge storing unit and a drive accessing the data stored in the cartridge, the library apparatus includes: a target position deciding unit configured to decide a target position, to which the conveying device is to be moved, based on a position of a gravity point of the library apparatus, and stable position information that is predetermined position information of the gravity point at which the library apparatus becomes stable; and a controlling unit configured to control and drive the conveying device to move to the target position when a vibration applied to the library device is detected.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2011Publication date: November 10, 2011Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITEDInventor: Keisuke HOSHINO
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Publication number: 20110235209Abstract: A tape library apparatus includes a recording/reproducing unit for accessing data in the tape cartridges, a first driver for producing a driving force, a conveyer for carrying the recording/reproducing unit in the direction of the alignment of the plurality of the tape cartridges, by the driving force produced by the first driver, an identification information reader mounted near the insertion slot and on a surfaces of the tape cartridges, the image identification information being on a surface of each of the tape cartridges which faces opposite to a surface which faces the conveyer, a second driver for moving the tape cartridge in the magazine at opposed position of the conveyer to the recording/reproducing unit, and a controller for controlling the first and second drivers, to move one of the tape cartridges stored in the magazine to a position of the recording/reproduction unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2011Publication date: September 29, 2011Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITEDInventor: Tsukasa MINEMURA
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Patent number: 8019926Abstract: A method of assigning a multi-dimensional physical address to a tape-based data storage device is provided. The method includes accessing a first signal from a first communication path electrically coupled to a first tape-based data storage device, wherein the first signal indicates a physical position of the first tape-based data storage device with respect to a first axis. The method further includes accessing a second signal from a second communication path electrically coupled to the first tape-based data storage device, wherein the second signal is associated with a physical position of the first tape-based data storage device with respect to a second axis.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2008Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Quantum CorporationInventors: Daniel J. Byers, Travis Jones
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Patent number: 8009058Abstract: A method, system, and computer program product for sensing the presence and/or misplacement of mechanical sub assemblies (MSAs) within storage slots of automated storage libraries. Each MSA is tracked based on signed empty cell barcode labels. Signed empty cell barcode labels are utilized to uniquely identify the frame, column, and row coordinates of one or more MSAs. The storage library automatically scans all signed empty cell barcode labels utilizing a scanner mounted on a robotic device. The system provides a counter for each MSA, allowing the storage library to track the usage of the MSA. As usage of the MSA reaches a predefined lifecycle, the library automatically generates an alert to replace the MSA. When a MSA is rearranged within the storage library, the library automatically maps the new frame, column, and row coordinates of the MSA.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2008Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Stefan Lehmann, Shawn M. Nave, Raymond Yardy
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Patent number: 7974040Abstract: A pass-through mechanism that couples a first linear tape library string to a second linear tape library string is maintained. A first robotic assembly associated with the first linear tape library string places a tape from the first linear tape library string into the pass-through mechanism. The pass-through mechanism moves the tape to a position where the tape can be removed by a second robotic assembly associated with the second linear tape library string. The second robotic assembly removes the tape from the pass-through mechanism and places the tape into the second linear tape library string.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2008Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Andrew Stuart Green, Frank Krick, Shawn Michael Nave, Raymond Yardy
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Publication number: 20110157742Abstract: A method for verifying a tape cartridge is presented. One method includes introducing a tape cartridge into a tape library wherein when introduced, the tape cartridge can then be loaded in a tape drive in an attempt to bring the tape cartridge to a functionally ready state with the tape drive. In loading the tape cartridge in the tape drive, the loading performance of the first tape cartridge can be assessed based on bringing the first tape cartridge to a functionally ready state. A record of the performance information can then be stored on a central data base and/or on a medium auxiliary memory device located in the tape cartridge.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2010Publication date: June 30, 2011Applicant: Spectra Logic CorporationInventors: Nathan Christopher Thompson, Matthew Thomas Starr, Michael Gerard Goberis
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Patent number: 7962645Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for automatically and transparently mapping tape drives within tape libraries to IP addresses. In one embodiment, the tape library includes, a DHCP server, a LAN to serial switch, and a library manager configured with the necessary modules to map the tape library devices to the proper IP addresses. The entire process may be transparent to users. The result is that the tape library is configured with the proper IP addressing without costly, time-consuming, and error-prone manual intervention. The tape library can be configured more quickly with accurate IP addressing and is able to operate efficiently and properly.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2005Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Joseph Whitney Dain, James Arthur Fisher, Raymond Anthony James, David Luciani
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Publication number: 20110122527Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to storing and locating a self-describing storage cartridge. An aspect of the invention includes a system for storing and locating a self-describing storage cartridge. The system includes a storage cartridge. The storage cartridge includes a first storage module configured to store data objects. The storage cartridge further includes a second storage module configured to store an index describing the data objects stored on the first storage module. The storage cartridge further includes a connector coupled to the second storage module and configured to provide an external device with access to the second storage module.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2009Publication date: May 26, 2011Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: Arnon Amir, Edwin R. Childers, Wayne I. Imaino, Winfried W. Wilcke
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Publication number: 20110116187Abstract: A tape library is provided with a fixed coupling mechanism so that the tape library includes discrete locations via which power and communication are provided to an accessor. The use of such a coupling mechanism in a vertical tape library allows for the use of gravity to ensure that the accessor can couple with the fixed coupling mechanism even when no power is present in the accessor.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2011Publication date: May 19, 2011Inventors: Jonathan E. Bosley, Aaron L. Herring, Daniel S. Moore, Shawn M. Nave
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Publication number: 20110085263Abstract: A library device includes: cells each containing a storage medium in a first or a second manner; a medium drive accessing and containing the medium differently from a manner of placing the medium in at least one of the cells; and a medium-transferring unit including a housing section housing the medium, and moving the housing section between the cells and the medium drive to transfer the medium. The unit includes: a support member supporting the housing section pivotably between a first and a second postures meeting the first and second manners; a movement-controlling system moving the support member so that the housing section faces the cells and medium drive; a medium-transferring system transferring the medium; a biasing member biasing the housing section toward the first posture; and a posture-changing member interfering with and thereby pivoting the housing section from the first posture to the second posture resisting the biasing member.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2010Publication date: April 14, 2011Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITEDInventor: Kohjiro Hashimoto
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Patent number: 7916423Abstract: A storage system is provided having at least one storage unit, the storage unit including an electrical power source, a communication source and a cover that defines, at least in part an interior space. The storage system operates with a media blade that comprises a plurality of data storage elements, said media blade moveable in a drawer like motion though a cooperating opening in said cover. The storage system further includes a motion accommodating conductor apparatus connecting said plurality of data storage elements to said electrical power source and said communication source such that power from said electrical power source and communication from said communication source may be provided to said media blade without interruption when said media blade is moved in said drawer like motion outward from at least partially within said interior space.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2007Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: Spectra Logic CorporationInventors: Matthew Thomas Starr, Walter Wong, Micheal Edward Figero, Ronald Gregory Duren, Matthew John Ninesling, Joshua Daniel Carter, Scott Edward Bacom
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Publication number: 20110069412Abstract: A library apparatus includes a housing having an opening, a cell unit including a plurality of cells for storing a storage medium, a drive unit for writing data into or reading data from the storage medium, a medium transportation unit for accessing each of the cells and the drive unit and for transporting the storage medium between the cells and between each of the cells and the drive unit, a cell unit driver for moving the cell unit in vertical direction, and a controller for driving the cell unit driver to move the cell unit through the opening to a position accessible by a medium transportation unit of another library apparatus stacked in vertical direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Tsuneyoshi OOHARA
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Patent number: 7911731Abstract: A tape library system includes a plurality of conductive track assemblies including at least one linear conductive strip, and at least one guide track. The system further includes a first fiber brush assembly and a second fiber brush assembly separated from each other by a predetermined separation distance, each of the first and second fiber brush assemblies comprising a spring biasing a track wheel, and a fiber brush attached to the fiber brush assembly and in electrical contact with the conductive strip. The fiber brush assembly linearly translates along the conductive track assembly on an axis parallel to the conductive strip.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2007Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Shawn M. Nave, George G. Zamora, Lee C. Randall
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Patent number: 7894157Abstract: An apparatus to generate a spring force increasing in accordance with a quantity of tape media cartridges stored in a deep slot cell. The apparatus may include a deep slot cell, a biasing element including a torsion spring, and an advancement element. The deep slot cell may store one or more cartridges. The biasing element may generate a spring force toward the front of the deep slot cell such that the spring force generated increases in accordance with a number of cartridges stored in the cell. The advancement element may be positioned to apply the spring force to the cartridges, thereby advancing the cartridges toward the front of the deep slot cell.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2007Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Andrew Stuart Green, Shawn Michael Nave, Raymond Yardy
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Patent number: 7893841Abstract: A library includes a frame, a plurality of cartridge slots disposed within the frame and at least one counter configured to determine the presence of cartridges stored within the plurality of cartridge slots without removing the cartridges. The library also includes at least one controller in communication with the counter and configured to count a number of cartridges within the cartridge slots and compare the counted number to a capacity on demand value.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2008Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Brian G. Goodman, Leonard G. Jesionowski
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Publication number: 20110038075Abstract: A method is provided to handle portable cassettes removeably disposed in a data storage library, wherein the method supplies a data storage library comprising a plurality of storage slots, and a plurality of portable cassettes removeably disposed a designated storage slot in a first alignment order, and a pass-through accessor comprising a moveable fixturing apparatus to store portable cassettes, wherein the pass-through accessor is moveably disposed in the data storage library. The method positions the pass-through accessor adjacent an open end of a designated storage slot, and sequentially removes and attaches to the fixturing apparatus a plurality of portable cassettes from the designated storage slot. The method then transports the plurality of portable cassettes to a designated location within the data storage library.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2009Publication date: February 17, 2011Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: MATTHEW CHARLES COMPTON, LOUIS DANIEL ECHEVARRIA, STEFAN LEHMANN, RICHARD ALBERT WELP
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Patent number: 7889455Abstract: A computer program product for operating an automated data storage library with storage shelves, data storage drive(s), a bus bar; and a robot accessor with a drive system for moving the robot accessor, an accessor communication interface, a bus bar relay configured to engage and disengage the bus bar; a robot control configured to operate the drive system to move the robot accessor, to operate the picker, to operate the bus bar relay to engage the bus bar when the robot accessor is stationary; and a power storage system configured to receive power via the bus bar relay when the bus bar relay engages the bus bar, to store the received power, and to deliver the stored power to the robot accessor at least when the bus bar relay is disengaged.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2009Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventor: Mark Delorman Schultz
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Patent number: 7885035Abstract: A computer program product for operating an automated data storage library with storage shelves, data storage drive(s), a bus bar; and a robot accessor with a drive system for moving the robot accessor, an accessor communication interface, a bus bar relay configured to engage and disengage the bus bar; and a robot control configured to operate the drive system to move the robot accessor, to operate a picker, and to operate the bus bar relay to engage the bus bar when the robot accessor is stationary, to provide communication capability with a library communication interface via the bus bar relay and the bus bar when the bus bar relay engages the bus bar. Additionally, a second communication system may be provided between the robot accessor and the automated data storage library, which is operable at least when the robot accessor is moving.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2009Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Brian Gerard Goodman, Glen Alan Jaquette, Leonard George Jesionowski, Mark Delorman Schultz
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Patent number: 7876524Abstract: When a rotation shaft reaches a first standstill position, a contact piece is received in a first hooked groove. A grasping mechanism unit is forced to enjoy a change in the attitude around the rotation shaft by the rotation angle of 90 degrees. When the rotation shaft further reaches a first terminal position, the grasping mechanism unit is forced to restore the predetermined attitude around the rotation shaft by the rotation angle of 90 degrees. The linear motion of the rotation shaft is in this manner interconnected to the rotational movement of the grasping mechanism unit in a library apparatus. A pulley, a timing belt and an electric motor can be omitted from the driving mechanism for the grasping mechanism unit. This results in a simplified structure. The production cost is thus reduced. The transporting mechanism can have a longer service life.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2008Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Tsukasa Minemura
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Patent number: 7876525Abstract: An expandable storage library for storing digital storage media, such as storage tapes or disks is provided. The library includes a base unit and robotic system to which additional expansion units may be added. Several expansion units may be installed in the library with the base unit so that the robotic system can access media storage racks in any of the expansion units or in the base unit. Doors on the base unit and expansion unit may be interlocked together to function as a single door. A Z pole guide on the base unit may be extended by adding expansion guide poles that guide the movement of the robotic system through the library.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2009Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Oracle America, Inc.Inventors: Bradley A. Wilkin, Daniel J. Plutt, Joseph P. Manes, Donald R. Manes
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Publication number: 20110013314Abstract: A housing apparatus includes a plurality of housing units to have housed objects housed therein, a carrying unit to include the plurality of the housing units arranged in a ring shape, the carrying unit carrying the housing units to a carriage position, and a transferring unit to be disposed facing a carriage destination of the housed objects with the carrying unit existing therebetween to transfer the housed object in the housing unit carried and positioned at the carriage position from the housing unit to the carriage destination or to transfer the housed object in the carriage destination from the carriage destination to the housing unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2010Publication date: January 20, 2011Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITEDInventor: Kenji AOKI
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Publication number: 20100321811Abstract: Described are a method and apparatus that monitor tape drive health for tape drives in a tape library. The tape library generally contains a data base that is adapted to maintain functional status records for interactions that occur when a tape drive physically engages a tape cartridge. More specifically, errors associated with tape drive and tape cartridge interactions can be stored in the data base and monitored to make determinations relative to problems encountered by a specific tape drive.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2010Publication date: December 23, 2010Applicant: Spectra Logic CorporationInventors: Michael Gerard Goberis, Matthew Thomas Starr, Jeff Robert Boyton, Walter Wong, Nathan Christopher Thompson
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Patent number: 7843663Abstract: A storage cartridge retention device employs a deep storage slot for storing one or more storage cartridge(s) through its front opening and biases the stored storage cartridge(s) in a direction of its front opening. The storage cartridge retention device further employs a retaining gate external to the deep storage slot and movable relative to the front opening of the deep storage slot between a retaining position and a releasing position. The retaining position engages a front storage cartridge to retain the storage cartridge(s) within the deep storage slot based on the bias of the storage cartridge(s) in the direction of the front opening of the deep storage slot, and the releasing position disengages the front storage cartridge to facilitate movement of the one storage cartridge(s) within the deep storage slot based on the bias of the storage cartridge(s) in the direction of the front opening of the deep storage slot.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2007Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Shawn M. Nave, Raymond Yardy
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Patent number: 7839601Abstract: A deep slot tape cartridge library module including a main wall having two major surfaces; a pair of side walls in spaced relation to each other and each extending orthogonally to both major surfaces whereby the main wall and side walls form a substantially “H” shaped structure; an opening in the main wall, the opening extending longitudinally along the main wall a relatively short distance; a spring clip configured complimentarily to the opening and removably retainable therein; and a spring fixedly connected to the spring clip. A method for replacing a spring of a high density tape library where a spring assembly and main wall are utilized, the method including identifying a slot having a failed spring; emptying the identified slot of tape cartridges; extracting the spring assembly from the main wall; and replacing the spring assembly with a non-failed spring assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2007Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Shawn M. Nave, Jeffrey L. Thorn, Raymond Yardy
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Patent number: 7823173Abstract: An automated data storage library employing a media accessor, an optical disk drive and a removable disk media. The media accessor includes a cartridge shell gripper. The optical disk drive includes a tape cartridge slot. The removable disk media includes a tape cartridge shell having a structural configuration operable to be physically engaged by the cartridge shell gripper and operable to be physically inserted into the tape cartridge slot by the cartridge shell gripper. The removable disk media further includes one or more optical disks disposed within the tape cartridge shell. A recording surface of each optical disk is extractable, partially or entirely, from the tape cartridge shell by the optical disk drive for writing data onto the optical disk and/or reading data from the optical disk.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2006Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Hans-Juergen Coufal, Kirby G. Dahman, Glen A. Jaquette, Mark A. Taylor
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Publication number: 20100254039Abstract: A cell (300) includes a cartridge lock (306) at its opening for securing a data cartridge (100) in the cell by locking. A picker mechanism (500) includes a picker arm (521) and an ejection release part (522) for releasing locking realized by the cartridge lock (306). When the data cartridge (100) is to be inserted into the cell (300), the cartridge lock (306) is caused to retract as far as a position at which locking is released by a tapered surface (101) that is provided on the data cartridge (100); and when the data cartridge (100) is to be ejected from the cell (300), cartridge lock (306) is released by the ejection release part (522) at the same time that picker arm (521) engages engagement hole (102).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 22, 2008Publication date: October 7, 2010Inventors: Toshimitsu Kawasaki, Manabu Tsuchiya, Tadashi Kosugi
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Publication number: 20100238589Abstract: A transport apparatus and a library apparatus are provided. The transport apparatus includes a holding mechanism, a base and a lifting/lowering mechanism. The holding mechanism holds an object to transport. The holding mechanism is mounted on a base. The lifting/lowering mechanism lifts and lowers the base in first directions. The drive mechanism moves the holding mechanism in a plane including second directions that are different from the first directions.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2010Publication date: September 23, 2010Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITEDInventor: Tsukasa Minemura
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Patent number: 7800860Abstract: A device for storing data carriers has a housing (10). In the housing (10) magazines (12) can be inserted, which accommodate data carriers, e.g. magnetic tape cartridges (26) lying flat. In order to be able to exchange cartridges (26) without moving the magazine (12) out of the housing (10) and without interrupting the operation of the device, end-sided receptacles of the magazines (12) are designed as a changing device (28), which is mounted as a drawer in the associated magazine (12) and which, in the case of the inserted magazine (12), can be extended out of this magazine (12) and out of the housing (10).Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2006Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: BDT AGInventor: Friedhelm Steinhilber
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Patent number: 7800861Abstract: The cartridge magazine according to the present invention has a plurality of holding shelves holding a plurality of cartridges, each holding shelf being provided with a shutter opening mechanism for opening a shutter of a cartridge along with insertion of a cartridge. Furthermore, it is provided with a shutter check door having projection parts projecting out into spaces formed by the opening of the shutters.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2007Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventor: Yutaka Kobayashi