Abstract: The subject invention comprises a flexible multilayer fire-rated material that has at least one layer of an intumescent material. Because it is flexible, the fire-rated material is usable in situations where it is desirable for the fire-rated material to be rolled up or folded into a non-flat storage application. This allows the subject fire-rated material to be used in fire-rated and smoke-resistant barriers that are recessed in walls or ceilings until use. One end use embodiment includes without limitation, recessed or rolled up fabrics used in elevator lobby ceilings to seal off elevators or their lobbies from smoke or fire.

Abstract: Barrier systems and associated methods, including vapor and/or fire barrier systems, are disclosed herein. One aspect of the invention is directed toward a barrier system that includes a barrier that is moved between a deployed position and a retracted position. The flexible barrier is configured to prevent migration of smoke or other harmful vapor, but to allow egress through the barrier upon request. A pressure gradient across the barrier can cause the barrier to bow and inhibit raising the barrier. A control system directs a drive system to stop raising the barrier, wait a predetermined time, and then raise the barrier again. In some embodiments, the barrier can be returned toward the deployed position before raising the barrier again.

Abstract: Barrier systems and associated methods, including vapor and/or fire barrier systems, are disclosed herein. One aspect of the invention is directed toward a barrier system that includes a barrier coupled to a spool, and a drive system. The barrier is positioned to be wound onto and off of the spool as the barrier moves between a deployed position and a retracted position by the drive assembly. The system further includes a clutch configured to resist movement of the barrier system unless directed by the drive system, and to release the barrier to allow manual egress when power to the drive system fails. The system further includes a latch configured to retain the barrier in a retracted position and to prevent the barrier from deploying when power fails and the clutch releases.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for a magnetic tape drive, which allow a magnetic tape to be positioned with respect to a tape head. The invention includes actively controlling the position of a tape guide used to support the tape as it passes over the tape head. By controlling the position of the tape guide, the tape can be caused to move a direction perpendicular to the primary direction of travel of the tape. One method of the invention includes providing a first tape guide aligned along a primary axis and disposed proximate a first side of the tape head. The tape is moved across the first tape guide and the tape head in a primary direction while the first tape guide is pivoted, to thereby cause the tape to move in a secondary direction essentially perpendicular to the primary direction.

Abstract: A tape threading apparatus for use with a single reel cartridge of source tape allows leader tape to be spooled onto an inner leader drum, and source tape to be spooled on to an outer take-up drum. The apparatus has a take-up reel having an outer drum configured to accept source tape. The apparatus further includes a leader drum which is supported essentially concentric with and at least partially rotatable with respect to the outer drum. The leader tape has a first end attached to the leader drum and a second end provided with a tape connector which can be connected to the source tape. The outer drum has a leader tape opening to allow leader tape to pass freely from the leader drum to the outside of the outer drum. The leader tape opening is configured to prevent passage of the tape connector therethrough. In a first embodiment, the leader drum is configured to be driven by a drive motor.