WO1998048421A1 - Multi-bank compact disc storage and retrieval system - Google Patents
Multi-bank compact disc storage and retrieval system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO1998048421A1 WO1998048421A1 PCT/US1998/001911 US9801911W WO9848421A1 WO 1998048421 A1 WO1998048421 A1 WO 1998048421A1 US 9801911 W US9801911 W US 9801911W WO 9848421 A1 WO9848421 A1 WO 9848421A1
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- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- disc
- storage
- compact
- banks
- loader
- Prior art date
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- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 34
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 23
- 239000000969 carrier Substances 0.000 description 5
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000013500 data storage Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007774 longterm Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005192 partition Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000035755 proliferation Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G11—INFORMATION STORAGE
- G11B—INFORMATION STORAGE BASED ON RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN RECORD CARRIER AND TRANSDUCER
- G11B17/00—Guiding record carriers not specifically of filamentary or web form, or of supports therefor
- G11B17/22—Guiding record carriers not specifically of filamentary or web form, or of supports therefor from random access magazine of disc records
- G11B17/225—Guiding record carriers not specifically of filamentary or web form, or of supports therefor from random access magazine of disc records wherein the disks are transferred from a fixed magazine to a fixed playing unit using a moving carriage
Definitions
- This invention relates in general to computer data retrieval from compact discs, and in particular to a compact disc storage and retrieval system and methodology thereof within a storage magazine structure wherein two opposing compact disc storage banks each constructed as a plurality of parallel columns of storage sites are separated by an access channel in which is disposed a disc loader and transport apparatus that is movably operable within the access channel and able to retrieve and deliver a plurality of discs among all storage sites and disc drives.
- a primary object of the present invention is to provide a compact disc storage and retrieval system within a storage magazine structure wherein two opposing compact disc storage banks each constructed as a plurality of parallel columns of storage sites are separated by an access channel in which is disposed a disc loader and transport apparatus that is movably operable within the access channel and able to retrieve and deliver a plurality of discs among all storage sites and disc drives.
- Another object of the present invention is to provide a storage and retrieval system wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus can make a single trip through storage banks to both retrieve and deliver discs.
- Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a storage and retrieval system wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus has a plurality of disc transport sites wherein each of which can retrieve and deliver discs from storage banks disposed at opposite sides of the access channel.
- the present invention is a compact disc storage and retrieval system and methodology therefor, wherein the system has a disc loader and transport apparatus comprising a plurality of disc transport sites for retrieving and delivering a plurality of discs during travel among storage sites and drive mechanisms.
- the system comprises a storage magazine structure having a plurality of storage banks on each side of an access channel that separates the banks, with each bank comprising a plurality of disc storage sites arranged as a column and accessible through openings from the access channel.
- a disc loader and transport apparatus is disposed and movably operable within the access channel for retrieving and replacing a disc from and to a storage site of any of the banks as well as from and to a disc drive mechanism.
- the loader and transport apparatus comprises, in one embodiment, at least one pair of laterally adjacent disc transport sites serviced by one disc carrier therein selectively movable between each of the pair of sites to thereby accommodate one disc at either site.
- the loader and transport apparatus comprises at least one pair of laterally adjacent, separated disc transport sites each having a respective disc carrier therein to thereby accommodate one disc at each site.
- Each transport site and each carrier is accessible from opposing sides adjacent the openings of the storage sites.
- each disc storage magazine structure additionally comprises a disc drive mechanism accessible from the access channel.
- Operation of the system permits a single pass of the loader and transport apparatus through the access channel to accomplish both retrieval and delivery of a plurality of discs from either side of the access channel, thereby significantly reducing the amount of time as well as mechanical activity required to ultimately access data stored on each respective disc.
- the storage magazine structure is expandable and comprises a plurality of substantially identical modules aligned with each other.
- Each module comprises a housing aligned with the housing of a next adjacent module and has therein a plurality of disc storage shelves arranged as multiple parallel banks each of a plurality of sites accessible through openings from an access channel.
- the access channel is aligned with the access channel of the next adjacent identical module and accommodates travel of the loader and transport apparatus which is integral with robotics for accomplishing such travel.
- the present invention provides a compact disc storage and loader system that operates efficiently while being economically advantageous in both initial acquisition and long-term operation.
- Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a top plan view of a compact disc storage and retrieval system for a computer
- Figure 2a is a schematic illustration of a front elevation view of a first disc loader and transport apparatus along line 2-2 of Figure 1;
- Figure 2b is a schematic illustration of a front elevation view of a second disc loader and transport apparatus
- Figure 3 is a schematic illustration in section of a side elevation view of the compact disc storage and retrieval system of Figure 1 along line 3-3 of Figure 1, additionally showing modular construction.
- a disc storage magazine structure 10 having four storage banks 12, 14, 16, 18 with an access channel 20 there within is shown.
- the magazine structure 10 is constructed of three modules 22, 24, 26, as illustrated in Figure 3.
- Each module 22, 24, 26 is releasably secured to its next adjacent module with standard draw latches (not shown) on opposing sides of the modules, while module alignment is assured with standard guide pins and pin slots (not shown) situated at the housing walls.
- Each module has aligned storage banks 12, 14, 16, 18 and access channels 20 such that the magazine structure 10 is seamlessly assembled to form continuous banks 12, 14, 16, 18 and a single access channel 20.
- Each storage bank 12, 14, 16, 18 has a plurality of storage shelves 28 each able to accommodate one compact disc (not shown), with each shelf 28 having an opening 36.
- One or more of the banks 12, 14, 16, 18 can have one or more conventional disc drive mechanisms 30 associated therewith as shown in Figure 3 for accessing data as known in the art from a disc placed in a drive mechanism 30.
- a loader and transport apparatus 34 Disposed within the access channel 20 is a loader and transport apparatus 34, shown in detail in Figure 2a, for retrieving, transporting and delivering compact discs among the storage banks 12, 14, 16, 18 and disc drive mechanism(s) 30.
- the loader and transport apparatus 34 is here shown with four respective pairs of laterally adjacent disc transport sites 38a, 38b, with each pair serviced by one respective disc carrier 44 therein selectively movable laterally, as indicated by the double arrow in Figure 1, between each respective pair of sites 38a, 38b to thereby accommodate one disc at each site 38a or 38b.
- Figure 2a shows a non-limiting representation of disc carrier locations, with the top and bottom sites 38a having therein the respective carriers 44 of the pairs, while the two center sites 38b have therein the respective carriers 44 of the pairs.
- All transport sites 38a, 38b and all disc carriers 44 are accessible from opposing sides through openings 40, 42 at each transport site 38a, 38b such that discs can pass from and to any storage bank 12, 14, 16, 18 or drive mechanism(s) 30.
- Each pair of transport sites 38a, 38b has the capability of independently controlled horizontal disc travel there between via the disc carrier 44 which allows each pair to service any storage or drive location within the structure 10, thereby accomplishing mapped drive access for moving any disc to any drive within the system.
- Each disc carrier 44 can have conventional construction for retaining a disc, and moves between sites 38a, 38b via robotics as would be as known in the art.
- the access channel 20 is also provided with robotics as known in the art to move the loader and transport apparatus 34 within the access channel 20 such that alignment between respective transport sites 38a, 38b and storage shelves 28 or drive mechanism(s) 30, as chosen, can occur to accomplish retrieval or delivery of discs. Access is thereby provided to all storage shelves 28 in all banks 12, 14, 16, 18 as well as the drive mechanism(s) 30.
- Figure 2b shows a second preferred embodiment of a loader and transport apparatus 35 with four respective pairs of laterally adjacent disc transport sites 39a, 39b, with each pair separated by a respective partition 27.
- Each of disc transport sites 39a has therein a disc carrier 45a, while each of sites 39b has therein a disc carrier 45b to thereby accommodate one disc at each site 39a or 39b.
- All transport sites 39a, 39b and all disc carriers 45a, 45b therein are accessible from opposing sides through openings 40, 42 as described above in relation to Figure 2a at each transport site 39a, 39b such that discs can pass from and to any storage bank 12, 14, 16, 18 or drive mechanism(s) 30 situated in association with sites at 39a or at 39b.
- the loader and transport apparatus 34 or 35 can make a single pass through the access channel 20 to retrieve or deliver discs from and to any storage shelf 28 or drive mechanism 30.
- the loader and transport apparatus 34 or 35 can (1) start at the top of the access channel 20 with two previously used discs in two disc carriers 44 or 45a/45b situated in two respective transport sites 38a and/or 38b, or 39a and/or 39b; (2) move downwardly within the access channel 20 to retrieve one or two additional discs from respective storage shelves 28 of any storage bank; (3) move downwardly and deliver one disc to storage shelves 28 of any storage bank; (4) move downwardly and retrieve three discs from storage shelves 28 in any storage bank while simultaneously delivering one of the original discs to a storage shelf 28; and (5) move further downwardly and deliver two discs to the two drive mechanisms 30.
- one pass through the access channel 20 can accomplish both retrieval and delivery, sequentially or simultaneously, of a plurality of compact discs among any storage sites and drive mechanisms.
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Abstract
A compact disc storage and retrieval system and methodology thereof, wherein the system has a disc loader and transport apparatus (34) having a plurality of disc transport sites (38) for retrieving and delivering a plurality of discs. The system includes a storage magazine structure having a plurality of storage banks (12, 14, 16, 18) on each side of an access channel (20), with each bank having a plurality of disc storage sites (28) arranged as a column and accessible through openings from the access channel (20). A disc loader and transport apparatus (34) is movably operable within the access channel (20) for retrieving and replacing a disc from and to a storage site (28) of any of the banks as well as from and to a disc drive mechanism (30).
Description
MULTI-BANK COMPACT DISC STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM
Field of the Invention This invention relates in general to computer data retrieval from compact discs, and in particular to a compact disc storage and retrieval system and methodology thereof within a storage magazine structure wherein two opposing compact disc storage banks each constructed as a plurality of parallel columns of storage sites are separated by an access channel in which is disposed a disc loader and transport apparatus that is movably operable within the access channel and able to retrieve and deliver a plurality of discs among all storage sites and disc drives.
Background of the Invention Compact disc storage and retrieval has become a significant factor for consideration in view of the proliferation of use of these discs for data storage in association with computerized information that must be readily available. While individual discs are capable of accepting relatively large amounts of data, the amount of data stored for many applications is immense and therefore requires a significant number of discs. In addition to requiring large data storage capacity, rapid retrieval of discs is also desired so that data from the discs can be accessed more quickly. However, present disc retrieval and delivery apparatus generally can accommodate only one disc at a time, resulting in significant time consumption as the apparatus first retrieves a disc from a drive mechanism, delivers the disc to its original storage location, moves to another storage location to retrieve a second disc, and delivers the second disc to the drive mechanism for ultimate data access.
As is apparent, the time required for apparatus travel within disc storage structures slows the ability
to finally access data, and illustrates the need for a disc retrieval and delivery apparatus whose operation proceeds in a more timely manner. Accordingly, a primary object of the present invention is to provide a compact disc storage and retrieval system within a storage magazine structure wherein two opposing compact disc storage banks each constructed as a plurality of parallel columns of storage sites are separated by an access channel in which is disposed a disc loader and transport apparatus that is movably operable within the access channel and able to retrieve and deliver a plurality of discs among all storage sites and disc drives.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a storage and retrieval system wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus can make a single trip through storage banks to both retrieve and deliver discs.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a storage and retrieval system wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus has a plurality of disc transport sites wherein each of which can retrieve and deliver discs from storage banks disposed at opposite sides of the access channel.
These and other objects of the invention will become apparent throughout the description thereof which now follows.
Summary of the Invention The present invention is a compact disc storage and retrieval system and methodology therefor, wherein the system has a disc loader and transport apparatus comprising a plurality of disc transport sites for retrieving and delivering a plurality of discs during travel among storage sites and drive mechanisms. The system comprises a storage magazine structure having a plurality of storage banks on each side of an access channel that separates the banks, with each bank comprising a plurality of disc storage sites arranged as
a column and accessible through openings from the access channel. A disc loader and transport apparatus is disposed and movably operable within the access channel for retrieving and replacing a disc from and to a storage site of any of the banks as well as from and to a disc drive mechanism. The loader and transport apparatus comprises, in one embodiment, at least one pair of laterally adjacent disc transport sites serviced by one disc carrier therein selectively movable between each of the pair of sites to thereby accommodate one disc at either site. In a second embodiment, the loader and transport apparatus comprises at least one pair of laterally adjacent, separated disc transport sites each having a respective disc carrier therein to thereby accommodate one disc at each site. Each transport site and each carrier is accessible from opposing sides adjacent the openings of the storage sites. In preferred construction each disc storage magazine structure additionally comprises a disc drive mechanism accessible from the access channel. Operation of the system permits a single pass of the loader and transport apparatus through the access channel to accomplish both retrieval and delivery of a plurality of discs from either side of the access channel, thereby significantly reducing the amount of time as well as mechanical activity required to ultimately access data stored on each respective disc.
Most preferably, the storage magazine structure is expandable and comprises a plurality of substantially identical modules aligned with each other. Each module comprises a housing aligned with the housing of a next adjacent module and has therein a plurality of disc storage shelves arranged as multiple parallel banks each of a plurality of sites accessible through openings from an access channel. The access channel is aligned with the access channel of the next adjacent identical module and accommodates travel of the loader and transport apparatus which is integral with robotics for
accomplishing such travel. Overall, the present invention provides a compact disc storage and loader system that operates efficiently while being economically advantageous in both initial acquisition and long-term operation.
Brief Description of the Drawings An illustrative and presently preferred embodiment of the invention is shown in the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a top plan view of a compact disc storage and retrieval system for a computer;
Figure 2a is a schematic illustration of a front elevation view of a first disc loader and transport apparatus along line 2-2 of Figure 1;
Figure 2b is a schematic illustration of a front elevation view of a second disc loader and transport apparatus; and Figure 3 is a schematic illustration in section of a side elevation view of the compact disc storage and retrieval system of Figure 1 along line 3-3 of Figure 1, additionally showing modular construction.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments
Referring to Figures 1 and 3, a disc storage magazine structure 10 having four storage banks 12, 14, 16, 18 with an access channel 20 there within is shown. The magazine structure 10 is constructed of three modules 22, 24, 26, as illustrated in Figure 3. Each module 22, 24, 26 is releasably secured to its next adjacent module with standard draw latches (not shown) on opposing sides of the modules, while module alignment is assured with standard guide pins and pin slots (not shown) situated at the housing walls. Each module has aligned storage banks 12, 14, 16, 18 and access channels 20 such that the magazine structure 10 is seamlessly assembled to form
continuous banks 12, 14, 16, 18 and a single access channel 20. Each storage bank 12, 14, 16, 18 has a plurality of storage shelves 28 each able to accommodate one compact disc (not shown), with each shelf 28 having an opening 36. One or more of the banks 12, 14, 16, 18 can have one or more conventional disc drive mechanisms 30 associated therewith as shown in Figure 3 for accessing data as known in the art from a disc placed in a drive mechanism 30. Disposed within the access channel 20 is a loader and transport apparatus 34, shown in detail in Figure 2a, for retrieving, transporting and delivering compact discs among the storage banks 12, 14, 16, 18 and disc drive mechanism(s) 30. The loader and transport apparatus 34 is here shown with four respective pairs of laterally adjacent disc transport sites 38a, 38b, with each pair serviced by one respective disc carrier 44 therein selectively movable laterally, as indicated by the double arrow in Figure 1, between each respective pair of sites 38a, 38b to thereby accommodate one disc at each site 38a or 38b. Figure 2a shows a non-limiting representation of disc carrier locations, with the top and bottom sites 38a having therein the respective carriers 44 of the pairs, while the two center sites 38b have therein the respective carriers 44 of the pairs. All transport sites 38a, 38b and all disc carriers 44 are accessible from opposing sides through openings 40, 42 at each transport site 38a, 38b such that discs can pass from and to any storage bank 12, 14, 16, 18 or drive mechanism(s) 30. Each pair of transport sites 38a, 38b has the capability of independently controlled horizontal disc travel there between via the disc carrier 44 which allows each pair to service any storage or drive location within the structure 10, thereby accomplishing mapped drive access for moving any disc to any drive within the system. Each disc carrier 44 can have conventional construction for retaining a disc, and moves between sites 38a, 38b via
robotics as would be as known in the art. The access channel 20 is also provided with robotics as known in the art to move the loader and transport apparatus 34 within the access channel 20 such that alignment between respective transport sites 38a, 38b and storage shelves 28 or drive mechanism(s) 30, as chosen, can occur to accomplish retrieval or delivery of discs. Access is thereby provided to all storage shelves 28 in all banks 12, 14, 16, 18 as well as the drive mechanism(s) 30. Figure 2b shows a second preferred embodiment of a loader and transport apparatus 35 with four respective pairs of laterally adjacent disc transport sites 39a, 39b, with each pair separated by a respective partition 27. Each of disc transport sites 39a has therein a disc carrier 45a, while each of sites 39b has therein a disc carrier 45b to thereby accommodate one disc at each site 39a or 39b. All transport sites 39a, 39b and all disc carriers 45a, 45b therein are accessible from opposing sides through openings 40, 42 as described above in relation to Figure 2a at each transport site 39a, 39b such that discs can pass from and to any storage bank 12, 14, 16, 18 or drive mechanism(s) 30 situated in association with sites at 39a or at 39b.
In operation, the loader and transport apparatus 34 or 35 can make a single pass through the access channel 20 to retrieve or deliver discs from and to any storage shelf 28 or drive mechanism 30. Thus, as a non-limiting example, the loader and transport apparatus 34 or 35 can (1) start at the top of the access channel 20 with two previously used discs in two disc carriers 44 or 45a/45b situated in two respective transport sites 38a and/or 38b, or 39a and/or 39b; (2) move downwardly within the access channel 20 to retrieve one or two additional discs from respective storage shelves 28 of any storage bank; (3) move downwardly and deliver one disc to storage shelves 28 of any storage bank; (4) move downwardly and retrieve three discs from storage shelves 28 in any
storage bank while simultaneously delivering one of the original discs to a storage shelf 28; and (5) move further downwardly and deliver two discs to the two drive mechanisms 30. Thus, one pass through the access channel 20 can accomplish both retrieval and delivery, sequentially or simultaneously, of a plurality of compact discs among any storage sites and drive mechanisms.
While an illustrative and presently preferred embodiment of the invention has been described in detail herein, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employed and that the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations except insofar as limited by the prior art.
Claims
WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. A compact disc storage and retrieval system for a computer, the system comprising: a) a disc storage magazine structure comprising a plurality of storage banks on each side of an access channel that separates the banks, with each bank comprising a plurality of disc storage sites arranged as a column and accessible from the access channel through site openings; and b) a disc loader and transport apparatus disposed and movably operable within the access channel for retrieving and replacing a disc from and to a storage site of any of the banks, said apparatus comprising at least one pair of laterally adjacent disc transport sites serviced by one disc carrier therein selectively movable between each of the pair of sites to thereby accommodate one disc at either site, with each transport site and each carrier accessible from opposing sides adjacent the openings of the storage sites. 2. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the disc storage banks are in a substantially vertical configuration.
3. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 2 wherein at least one of the disc storage banks additionally comprises a disc drive mechanism accessible from the access channel and to which the disc loader and transport apparatus can travel to deliver and retrieve a compact disc.
4. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 3 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus has four pairs of laterally adjacent disc transport sites.
5. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 1 wherein at least one of the disc storage banks additionally comprises a disc drive mechanism accessible from the access channel and to which
the disc loader and transport apparatus can travel to deliver and retrieve a compact disc.
6. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 1 wherein at least one of the disc storage banks additionally comprises a disc drive mechanism accessible from the access channel and to which the disc loader and transport apparatus can travel to deliver and retrieve a compact disc.
7. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus has four pairs of laterally adjacent disc transport sites.
8. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus is operable to simultaneously deliver and retrieve at least two compact discs.
9. A compact disc storage and retrieval system for a computer, the system comprising: a) a disc storage magazine structure comprising a plurality of modules each having a plurality of storage banks on each side of an access channel that separates the banks, with each bank comprising a plurality of disc storage sites arranged as a column and accessible from the access channel through site openings; and b) a disc loader and transport apparatus disposed and movably operable within the access channel for retrieving and replacing a disc from and to a storage site of any of the banks, said apparatus comprising at least one pair of laterally adjacent disc transport sites serviced by one disc carrier therein selectively movable between each of the pair of sites to thereby accommodate one disc at either site, with each transport site and each carrier accessible from opposing sides adjacent the openings of the storage sites. 10. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 9 wherein the disc storage banks are in a substantially vertical configuration.
-lO- ll. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 10 wherein at least one of the disc storage banks additionally comprises a disc drive mechanism accessible from the access channel and to which the disc loader and transport apparatus can travel to deliver and retrieve a compact disc.
12. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 11 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus has four pairs of laterally adjacent disc transport sites.
13. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 9 wherein at least one of the disc storage banks additionally comprises a disc drive mechanism accessible from the access channel and to which the disc loader and transport apparatus can travel to deliver and retrieve a compact disc.
14. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 9 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus has four pairs of laterally adjacent disc transport sites.
15. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 9 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus is operable to simultaneously deliver and retrieve at least two compact discs. 16. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc for a computer, the method comprising: a) providing a compact disc storage and retrieval system comprising:
1) a disc storage magazine structure having a plurality of storage banks on each side of an access channel that separates the banks, with each bank comprising a plurality of disc storage sites arranged as a column and accessible from the access channel through site openings; and 2) a disc loader and transport apparatus disposed and movably operable within the access channel for retrieving and replacing a disc from and to a storage
site of any of the banks, said apparatus comprising at least one pair of laterally adjacent disc transport sites serviced by one disc carrier therein selectively movable between each of the pair of sites to thereby accommodate one disc at either site, with each transport site and each carrier accessible from opposing sides adjacent the openings of the storage sites; and b) operating the disc loader and transport apparatus to retrieve at least one disc from the storage site therefor and delivering said disc to a disc drive mechanism.
17. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc as claimed in Claim 16 wherein a plurality of compact discs are stored in respective storage sites of the banks and wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus is operated to travel once through the access channel to both deliver and retrieve a plurality of compact discs to and from the banks.
18. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc as claimed in Claim 17 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus additionally delivers and retrieves a disc to and from the disc drive mechanism.
19. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc as claimed in Claim 16 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus functions to simultaneously deliver and retrieve at least two compact discs.
20. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc for a computer, the method comprising: a) providing a compact disc storage and retrieval system having at least one compact disc stored therein, said system comprising:
1) a disc storage magazine structure comprising a plurality of modules each having a plurality of storage banks on each side of an access channel that separates the banks, with each bank comprising a plurality of disc storage sites arranged as a column and accessible from the access channel through site openings; and
2) a disc loader and transport apparatus disposed and movably operable within the access channel for retrieving and replacing a disc from and to a storage site of any of the banks, said apparatus comprising at least one pair of laterally adjacent disc transport sites serviced by one disc carrier therein selectively movable between each of the pair of sites to thereby accommodate one disc at either site, with each transport site and each carrier accessible from opposing sides adjacent the openings of the storage sites; and b) operating the disc loader and transport apparatus to retrieve the at least one disc from the storage site therefor and delivering said disc to a disc drive mechanism. 21. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc as claimed in Claim 20 wherein a plurality of compact discs are stored in respective storage sites of the banks and wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus is operated to travel once through the access channel to both deliver and retrieve a plurality of compact discs to and from the banks.
22. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc as claimed in Claim 21 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus additionally delivers and retrieves a disc to and from the disc drive mechanism.
23. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc as claimed in Claim 20 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus functions to simultaneously deliver and retrieve at least two compact discs. 24. A compact disc storage and retrieval system for a computer, the system comprising: a) a disc storage magazine structure comprising a plurality of storage banks on each side of an access channel that separates the banks, with each bank comprising a plurality of disc storage sites arranged as a column and accessible from the access channel through site openings; and
b) a disc loader and transport apparatus disposed and movably operable within the access channel for retrieving and replacing a disc from and to a storage site of any of the banks, said apparatus comprising at least one pair of laterally adjacent disc transport sites separated from each other, with each accessible from opposing sides adjacent the openings of the storage sites and within each of which a disc can be accommodated.
25. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 24 wherein the disc storage banks are in a substantially vertical configuration.
26. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 25 wherein at least one of the disc storage banks additionally comprises a disc drive mechanism accessible from the access channel and to which the disc loader and transport apparatus can travel to deliver and retrieve a compact disc.
27. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 26 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus has four pairs of laterally adjacent transport sites.
28. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 24 wherein at least one of the disc storage banks additionally comprises a disc drive mechanism accessible from the access channel and to which the disc loader and transport apparatus can travel to deliver and retrieve a compact disc.
29. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 24 wherein at least one of the disc storage banks additionally comprises a disc drive mechanism accessible from the access channel and to which the disc loader and transport apparatus can travel to deliver and retrieve a compact disc.
30. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 24 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus has four pairs of laterally adjacent disc transport sites.
31. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 24 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus is operable to simultaneously deliver and retrieve at least two compact discs. 32. A compact disc storage and retrieval system for a computer, the system comprising: a) a disc storage magazine structure comprising a plurality of modules each having a plurality of storage banks on each side of an access channel that separates the banks, with each bank comprising a plurality of disc storage sites arranged as a column and accessible from the access channel through site openings; and b) a disc loader and transport apparatus disposed and movably operable within the access channel for retrieving and replacing a disc from and to a storage site of any of the banks, said apparatus comprising at least one pair of laterally adjacent disc transport sites separated from each other, with each accessible from opposing sides adjacent the openings of the storage sites and within each of which a disc can be accommodated.
33. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 32 wherein the disc storage banks are in a substantially vertical configuration.
34. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 33 wherein at least one of the disc storage banks additionally comprises a disc drive mechanism accessible from the access channel and to which the disc loader and transport apparatus can travel to deliver and retrieve a compact disc. 35. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 34 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus has four pairs of laterally adjacent disc transport sites.
36. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 32 wherein at least one of the disc storage banks additionally comprises a disc drive mechanism accessible from the access channel and to which
the disc loader and transport apparatus can travel to deliver and retrieve a compact disc.
37. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 32 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus has four pairs of laterally adjacent disc transport sites.
38. A compact disc storage and retrieval system as claimed in Claim 32 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus is operable to simultaneously deliver and retrieve at least two compact discs.
39. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc for a computer, the method comprising: a) providing a compact disc storage and retrieval system comprising: 1) a disc storage magazine structure having a plurality of storage banks on each side of an access channel that separates the banks, with each bank comprising a plurality of disc storage sites arranged as a column and accessible from the access channel through site openings; and
2) a disc loader and transport apparatus disposed and movably operable within the access channel for retrieving and replacing a disc from and to a storage site of any of the banks, said apparatus comprising at least one pair of laterally adjacent disc transport sites separated from each other, with each accessible from opposing sides adjacent the openings of the storage sites and within each of which a disc can be accommodated; and b) operating the disc loader and transport apparatus to retrieve at least one disc from the storage site therefor and delivering said disc to a disc drive mechanism.
40. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc as claimed in Claim 39 wherein a plurality of compact discs are stored in respective storage sites of the banks and wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus is operated to travel once through the access
channel to both deliver and retrieve a plurality of compact discs to and from the banks.
41. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc as claimed in Claim 40 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus additionally delivers and retrieves a disc to and from the disc drive mechanism.
42. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc as claimed in Claim 39 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus functions to simultaneously deliver and retrieve at least two compact discs.
43. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc for a computer, the method comprising: a) providing a compact disc storage and retrieval system having at least one compact disc stored therein, said system comprising:
1) a disc storage magazine structure comprising a plurality of modules each having a plurality of storage banks on each side of an access channel that separates the banks, with each bank comprising a plurality of disc storage sites arranged as a column and accessible from the access channel through site openings; and
2) a disc loader and transport apparatus disposed and movably operable within the access channel for retrieving and replacing a disc from and to a storage site of any of the banks, said apparatus comprising at least one pair of laterally adjacent disc transport sites separated from each other, with each accessible from opposing sides adjacent the openings of the storage sites and within each of which a disc can be accommodated; and b) operating the disc loader and transport apparatus to retrieve the at least one disc from the storage site therefor and delivering said disc to a disc drive mechanism.
44. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc as claimed in Claim 43 wherein a plurality of compact discs are stored in respective storage sites of the banks and wherein the disc loader and transport
apparatus is operated to travel once through the access channel to both deliver and retrieve a plurality of compact discs to and from the banks.
45. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc as claimed in Claim 44 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus additionally delivers and retrieves a disc to and from the disc drive mechanism.
46. A method of storing and retrieving a compact disc as claimed in Claim 43 wherein the disc loader and transport apparatus functions to simultaneously deliver and retrieve at least two compact discs.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU62604/98A AU6260498A (en) | 1997-04-18 | 1998-02-02 | Multi-bank compact disc storage and retrieval system |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US84446597A | 1997-04-18 | 1997-04-18 | |
| US84428797A | 1997-04-18 | 1997-04-18 | |
| US08/844,287 | 1997-04-18 | ||
| US08/844,465 | 1997-04-18 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| WO1998048421A1 true WO1998048421A1 (en) | 1998-10-29 |
Family
ID=27126491
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US1998/001911 WO1998048421A1 (en) | 1997-04-18 | 1998-02-02 | Multi-bank compact disc storage and retrieval system |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| AU (1) | AU6260498A (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1998048421A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN114283855A (en) * | 2020-09-27 | 2022-04-05 | 上海强然数码科技有限公司 | Storage system |
Citations (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4891720A (en) * | 1988-12-16 | 1990-01-02 | Datatape Incorporated | Belt drive system for a magnetic tape cassette transport/accessor |
| US5481514A (en) * | 1992-08-31 | 1996-01-02 | Victor Company Of Japan, Ltd. | Recording/reproducing apparatus including an auto changer for a disk-like recording medium |
| US5539712A (en) * | 1989-10-17 | 1996-07-23 | Nsm Aktiengesellschaft | Lifting and lowering device for a record playback unit in a record playing device |
| US5548567A (en) * | 1992-05-27 | 1996-08-20 | Funai Electric Co., Ltd. | Automatic disk player with stackable disk storage boxes |
-
1998
- 1998-02-02 AU AU62604/98A patent/AU6260498A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1998-02-02 WO PCT/US1998/001911 patent/WO1998048421A1/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4891720A (en) * | 1988-12-16 | 1990-01-02 | Datatape Incorporated | Belt drive system for a magnetic tape cassette transport/accessor |
| US5539712A (en) * | 1989-10-17 | 1996-07-23 | Nsm Aktiengesellschaft | Lifting and lowering device for a record playback unit in a record playing device |
| US5548567A (en) * | 1992-05-27 | 1996-08-20 | Funai Electric Co., Ltd. | Automatic disk player with stackable disk storage boxes |
| US5481514A (en) * | 1992-08-31 | 1996-01-02 | Victor Company Of Japan, Ltd. | Recording/reproducing apparatus including an auto changer for a disk-like recording medium |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN114283855A (en) * | 2020-09-27 | 2022-04-05 | 上海强然数码科技有限公司 | Storage system |
| CN114283855B (en) * | 2020-09-27 | 2024-06-07 | 上海强然数码科技有限公司 | Storage system |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU6260498A (en) | 1998-11-13 |
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