Abstract: The present invention is directed to microfluidics systems, instruments, and cartridges including self-aligning optical fiber systems and methods of use thereof. More specifically, the disclosure describes a microfluidics instrument including an optical detection system, microfluidics cartridge, and a self-aligning optical fiber system capable of coupling the microfluidics instrument and the microfluidics cartridge. Further, the disclosure provides methods of optical detection operations using a microfluidics system.

Abstract: A transmission apparatus for use in a stack of data library units, the stack comprising a lower data library unit and an upper data library unit, each data library unit of the stack comprising a plurality of upright frames, the transmission apparatus comprising a tray for transporting a tape cartridge; a plurality of positioning pinions rotatably attached to the tray; a plurality of racks each disposed on each of the plurality of upright frames and configured to be engaged by the corresponding plurality of positioning pinions for vertical positioning of the tray within each data library unit; a plurality of partial racks each comprising an upper tooth and a lower tooth disposed adjacent the plurality of racks at each of the plurality of upright frames, the upper tooth being disposed adjacent a lower end of the frame of the upper data library unit and the lower tooth being disposed adjacent an upper end of the frame of the lower data library unit; a plurality of cross-over pinions each rotatably attached to th

Abstract: A slot for releasably storing a tape cartridge is disclosed. The slot comprises an enlargeable receiving portion for releasable insertion of the tape cartridge and a plate for supporting the tape cartridge in the slot. At least a portion of the plate is moveable for enlarging the receiving portion.

Abstract: A tape cartridge handler for transmitting a tape cartridge in a tape library. The handler comprises a deck for supporting a tape cartridge thereon; a gripper assembly in translatable engagement with the deck; and at least one arm in rotatable engagement with the gripper assembly, the arm being rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the arm and having a catch for engaging an aperture in a tape cartridge.

Abstract: A slot for releasably storing a tape cartridge is disclosed. The slot comprises an enlargeable receiving portion for releasable insertion of the tape cartridge and a plate for supporting the tape cartridge in the slot. At least a portion of the plate is moveable for enlarging the receiving portion.

Abstract: An inkjet service station includes a spittoon housing having a chopper containing compartment and a residual ink receiving compartment. The chopper containing compartment and the residual ink receiving compartment are separated by a wall having a passageway disposed therein. A lever having an opening formed in it is mounted within the chopper containing compartment for moving pivotally in a forward direction through the passageway and into the residual ink receiving compartment for accumulating spitted residual ink on a top surface thereof during printhead servicing. Upon completion of printhead servicing, the lever moves pivotally backward through the passageway to facilitate the removal of at least a portion of the accumulated spitted residual ink therefrom so that the portion falls into the residual ink receiving compartment.