Inventors:
Samuel D. Cheatham - Golden CO
Jorgen Frandsen - Louisville CO
Daniel J. Plutt - Boulder CO
Assignee:
Storage Technology Corporation - Louisville CO
International Classification:
B66C 2300
Abstract:
For primary use in a storage and retrieval subsystem in a data processing system, a robotic transfer system acts to transfer selected electronic magnetic storage cartridges between their storage and transducing positions, typically between vertically stacked concentric tape storage holders and a selected tape drive. The robotic transfer system for handling tape cartridges includes two hands, each mounted on a separate vertical axis disposed at opposite ends of a balanced rotating horizontal axis, such that no tape cartridge is ever more than 90. degree. away from the nearest hand. The use of two hands also provides a redundant data retrieval capability without concentrating the weight of two hands at a single end of a revolving horizontal arm, thus reducing the moments generated by angular movement and providing for faster tape access time and greater long-term system reliability.