Patent ID: 6082844
Filing Date: 2000-07-04
Classification: G11B

Abstract:
A mounting structure for supporting a data storage drive, said data storage drive having a forward end for insertion of a data storage medium thereat, said mounting structure for mounting said data storage drive in a data storage library, comprising:a bracket for mounting said data storage drive;first and second support bars, each mounted in parallel in said data storage library, said support bars comprising parallel slides for slidably supporting said data storage drive bracket at each side thereof at a downwardly inclined angle, so that said data storage drive is mounted at said downwardly inclined angle from said forward end;a ratchet bar having a plurality of ratchet holes therein, said ratchet bar fixedly mounted in said library at said downwardly inclined angle, said plurality of ratchet holes in said downwardly inclined direction; anda latch mounted on said bracket for engaging said at least one ratchet hole of said ratchet bar to support said bracket against sliding on said support bar slides, said latch comprising:a movable tab for engaging said at least one ratchet hole;a spring urging said tab into engagement with said at least one ratchet hole; anda release actuator connected to said tab, so that operation of said release actuator disengages said tab from said at least one ratchet hole;wherein, the uppermost of said ratchet holes, when engaged by said tab, registers said data storage drive in an operational position with respect to said library, and the remainder of said ratchet holes allowing said data storage drive to be withdrawn from said operational position along said parallel slides at said downwardly inclined angle and, when engaged by said tab, supporting said bracket and said data storage drive thereat.