Patent ID: 6259580
Filing Date: 2001-07-10
Classification: G11B

Abstract:
A cartridge handling system for storing and accessing at least one data cartridge, comprising:a frame defining a first cartridge access side and a second cartridge access side, the first and second cartridge access sides being substantially straight;a guide member mounted to said frame, said guide member comprising a first straight section located adjacent the first cartridge access side of said frame, a second straight section located adjacent the second cartridge access side of said frame, and a curved section connecting the first and second straight sections so that said guide member comprises a substantially continuous member having at least one straight section and at least one curved section;a cartridge access device having a cartridge access end, said cartridge access device engaging said guide member so that the cartridge access end is adjacent the first cartridge access side when said cartridge access device is located on the first straight section of said guide member and so that the cartridge access end is adjacent the second cartridge access side when said cartridge access device is located on the second straight section of said guide member;a substantially continuous gear rack having a first straight section positioned a substantially constant spaced distance from the first cartridge access side, a second straight section positioned a substantially constant spaced distance from the second cartridge access side, and a curved section connecting the first and second straight sections so that said substantially continuous gear rack is positioned a constant spaced distance from the first, second, and third access sides defined by said frame;a pinion gear mounted for rotation on said cartridge access device, said pinion gear engaging said gear rack; anda motor operatively associated with said pinion gear for rotating said pinion gear to cause said cartridge access device to move along said guide member.