Abstract: An automated adjustment system that permits an operator to quickly and accurately adjust the various adjustable components in a tape path. The adjustment system comprises an automated adjustment tool connected to a processing system. The automated adjustment tool comprises a plurality of probes connected to a nest fixture. The nest fixture is configured to receive a tape drive and securely position the tape drive for adjustment of the tape path. The plurality of probes are configured to individually engage the adjustable components in the tape path and provide a computer readable output to the processing system that indicates the vertical position of the individual components. The processing system is configured to receive the computer readable output, convert the computer readable output into a measurement and display the measurement on a display for an operator.

Abstract: The system for detecting the edge of a moving data storage medium measures the ambient noise level of the magneto-resistive read head when the magneto-resistive read head is completely off the magnetic tape media. The system for detecting the edge of a moving data storage medium sets a signal threshold that is a predetermined increase over the magneto-resistive read head output signal generated by the ambient noise. The system for detecting the edge of a moving data storage medium then moves the magneto-resistive read head on to the magnetic tape media, where an increase in the magneto-resistive read head output signal is generated due to the friction of the moving magnetic tape coming into contact with the magneto-resistive read head, causing an increased noise level.

Abstract: A holder for sheet-form articles designed as a display stand for leaflets, brochures and the like comprises a rear support member with two side support members movable jointly relative to the rear support member between extended and retracted positions, thereby to vary the width of the receiving space for the articles. Preferably, each rear plate of the side support members is provided with a generally diagonal slot therethrough, and studs projecting from the rear support plate are located within the slots to provide for guided sliding movement of the parts.

Abstract: A method for preventing a reverse connection between a takeup leader connected to a single reel tape drive and a tape cartridge leader connected to a magnetic tape media contained in a single reel tape cartridge that is loadable into the tape drive. The method comprises detecting a missed connection between the takeup leader and the tape cartridge leader following a failed load operation. The load operation includes loading the tape cartridge into the tape drive, connecting the takeup leader and tape cartridge leader, and winding the tape media to the read position. In response to detecting the missed connection, a torque is applied to the takeup leader to retain it in a loaded position away from the tape cartridge leader while the tape cartridge is ejected from the tape drive. In response to ejecting the tape cartridge from the tape drive, the takeup leader is reset to the unloaded position for a subsequent loading operation.

Abstract: A present tape cartridge leader with a flex relief aperture, located in the body of the tape cartridge leader between the guide wings. This flex relief aperture enables the tape cartridge leader to bend in a tight radius as the tape cartridge leader is pulled around the tape guide rollers in the tape drive, thereby ensuring that the tape cartridge leader is properly seated on the tape guide rollers as it traverses the tape path in the tape drive. The flex relief aperture also reduces the possibility of cracks forming in the tape cartridge leader where the guide wings meet the body of the tape cartridge leader, which is a problem in existing tape cartridge leaders. The guide wings are also shaped with a lead in radius to reduce to possibility of damage to the guide wings. In addition, the trailing edge of the guide wings includes a lead in chamfer to aid in the guide wings engaging the guide track in the cartridge housing.

Abstract: An artificial board generally including a top portion, an open bottom, and side walls. The top portion and side walls are integrally connected to form the body of the board which has an exterior surface. Stiffening members, integrally connected to the side walls and the top portion, extend between the sides walls and increase the rigidity of the board. Integral connecting portions can be used to construct various platforms, such as those found in benches, tables, and decks. The exterior surface can be a textured surface resembling a wood grain finish.

Abstract: An automated adjustment system that permits an operator to quickly and accurately adjust the various adjustable components in a tape path. The adjustment system comprises an automated adjustment tool connected to a processing system. The automated adjustment tool comprises a plurality of probes connected to a nest fixture. The nest fixture is configured to receive a tape drive and securely position the tape drive for adjustment of the tape path. The plurality of probes are configured to individually engage the adjustable components in the tape path and provide a computer readable output to the processing system that indicates the vertical position of the individual components. The processing system is configured to receive the computer readable output, convert the computer readable output into a measurement and display the measurement on a display for an operator.

Abstract: The takeup reel comprises a pair of segmented flanges connected in a parallel relationship to a takeup reel hub and define a first tape containment section and a second tape containment section. The segmented flanges are ultrasonically welded to the hub and include rounded protrusions that align and guide the tape media around the hub during operation of the tape drive. At least one of the segmented flanges also includes a post that is configured to mate with a feature on the tape drive to prevent movement of the takeup reel when the tape cartridge is unloaded from and loaded into the tape drive.

Abstract: A flexible takeup leader that prevents a deformation in the takeup leader from causing a tape drive failure. The takeup leader comprises an elongated main body integrally formed between a first end and a second end. The elongated main body includes a plurality of apertures formed in at least one section of the elongated main body that corresponds to at least one curvilinear point around a guide roller when the tape drive is in the unloaded condition. The apertures increase the flexibility of the takeup leader to prevent tape drives from realizing erratic behavior caused by a deformed takeup leader. The increased flexibility permits the tape drive to pull a deformed takeup leader through a curvilinear tape path with a substantially smooth motion.

Abstract: A tape drive ejection assembly that controls ejection of a tape cartridge to prevent over ejection errors in a tape drive. The ejection assembly comprises an ejection carriage, a carriage pin, a rotary damper and a spring mounted on a frame. The ejection carriage slides within the frame during insertion and ejection of the tape cartridge. The spring connects between the frame and the ejection carriage and provides the force to eject the tape cartridge. The rotary damper controls movement of the ejection carriage within the frame during ejection of the tape cartridge. The carriage pin includes a rib configured to form a snap connection with the tape cartridge during loading of the tape cartridge. The snap connection between the rib and the tape cartridge secures the tape cartridge to the ejection carriage during and after ejection of the tape cartridge. The connection is not released until a significant external force is applied on the tape cartridge.

Abstract: A roller guiding system for delivery of magnetic tape media along a tape path between a tape drive employing a single reel and a tape cartridge employing a single reel. The roller guiding system comprises a plurality of guide rollers configured to adjust the path of travel of the tape media during tape drive operation to maintain tracking of the tape media with a tape head.

Abstract: A coin operated device for the distribution of items includes a target array of tubular members containing items. A ram attached to and extending from a support member. The support member providing for movement of the ram within a plane. The ram is employed to force the items from the selected tubular member of the target array.

Abstract: A tape cartridge and cartridge drive system for controlling the compatibility of first and second tape cartridges having the same form factor in first and second tape drives. The system permits backward compatibility of the first tape cartridge in the second tape drive, while prohibiting the second tape cartridge from being used in the first tape drive. The second tape cartridge includes a tab projecting distally from a recess. The tab is positioned to contact the door actuator surface on the first tape drive so as to prevent insertion of the second tape cartridge into the first tape drive. The tab defines a cross-sectional area perpendicular to the insertion direction smaller than a gap in the door actuator assembly of the second tape drive to permit the second tape cartridge to be inserted into the second tape drive, whereby the second tape cartridge is compatible only with the second tape drive.

Abstract: A coin operated amusement device that includes a coin acceptor that directs coins down a coin chute and delivers the coins to a playing surface. A series of moveable pushers are oriented on the playing surface and push coins on the surface toward a ledge. The distance the pusher will travel toward the ledge is dependent on the timing of the insertion of the coin into the acceptor with respect to a moving indicator that constantly sweeps back and forth across a gauge. The pushers may be advanced independently or in unison. The object of the game is to time the insertion of coins so that the pusher will travel a maximum distance and push coins off the ledge.

Abstract: A guiding assembly in a tape drive employing a single reel for preventing damage to a tape head during the loading and unloading of magnetic tape media from a tape cartridge also employing a single reel. The guiding assembly has a tape guide configured to move a tape path away from the tape head during the loading and unloading of the magnetic tape media.

Abstract: A composition for delaying the cross-linking of water soluble polymer solutions includes a boron source suspended by an organophilic clay in a solution of a non-aqueous solvent. One process of manufacturing the composition includes the steps of first suspending the organophilic clay in the non-aqueous solvent and then suspending the boron source in the organophilic clay-non-aqueous solvent suspension. Another process of manufacturing composition includes the steps of first mixing the boron source and the organophilic clay to form a dry mixture and then suspending the dry mixture of the boron source and the organophilic clay in a non-aqueous solvent. In a method of hydraulically fracturing a formation, a water soluble polymer solution with a pH between about 8.5 and 12.5 and the boron source suspended by the organophilic clay in the solution of the non-aqueous solvent are pumped into the formation under sufficient pressure to cause a fracture in the formation rock.

Abstract: A roller guiding method for delivery of magnetic tape media along a tape path between a tape drive employing a single reel and a tape cartridge employing a single reel. The roller guiding system comprises a plurality of guide rollers configured to adjust the path of travel of the tape media during tape drive operation to maintain tracking of the tape media with a tape head.

Abstract: A composition for delaying the cross-linking of water soluble polymer solutions includes a boron source suspended by an organophilic clay in a solution of a non-aqueous solvent. One process of manufacturing the composition includes the steps of first suspending the organophilic clay in the non-aqueous solvent and then suspending the boron source in the organophilic clay- non-aqueous solvent suspension. Another process of manufacturing composition includes the steps of first mixing the boron source and the organophilic clay to form a dry mixture and then suspending the dry mixture of the boron source and the organophilic clay in a non-aqueous solvent. In a method of hydraulically fracturing a formation, a water soluble polymer solution with a pH between about 8.5 and 12.5 and the boron source suspended by the organophilic clay in the solution of the non-aqueous solvent are pumped into the formation under sufficient pressure to cause a fracture in the formation rock.

Abstract: In a coin operated amusement game, a coin track is provided directing coins toward a plurality of target receptacles arranged to receive properly timed coins. Relative movement is provided between the target track and the receptacles. A properly timed coin inserted in the track will roll down the track, then travel through the air, and then land in and be retained in the target receptacle. Dump targets are provided wherein a properly timed coin will activate the dump target and cause the corresponding receptacle to be dumped and provide the player with an award corresponding to the number of coins dumped out of the receptacle.