Magnetic tape unit device, storage system, control method of magnetic head, and controller

Abstract

The invention discloses magnetic tape unit equipment, a storage system, a control method of a magnetic head and a controller, and relates to the technical field of magnetic tapes. A plurality of magnetic heads are arranged in the magnetic tape unit. Therefore, by providing the redundant magnetic head, the service life of the magnetic head in the magnetic tape unit equipment can be prolonged, and the service life of the magnetic tape unit equipment is further prolonged. And in the magnetic head cleaning treatment process, the first magnetic head or the second magnetic head in the multiple magnetic heads is driven by the magnetic head driver to access the magnetic tape, so that the data access function can still be provided in the magnetic tape unit equipment, and the data access service does not need to be interrupted.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of magnetic tape technology, and in particular to a magnetic tape drive, storage system, control method for magnetic heads, and controller. Background Technology

[0002] A magnetic tape drive is a magnetic media device that uses magnetic tape as its medium. A magnetic tape drive includes components such as magnetic heads, a motor, magnetic tape, and a driver chip. In the implementation of data storage and access using a magnetic tape drive, the driver chip drives the motor to rotate the magnetic tape, enabling the magnetic heads to read and write data on the tape. After a period of use, dirt, magnetic particles, and other impurities may accumulate on the surface of the magnetic heads, affecting the bit error rate of data reading and writing. Therefore, magnetic head cleaning is necessary. Furthermore, failure to clean the magnetic heads regularly can lead to permanent damage.

[0003] Currently, during the magnetic head cleaning process, data in the tape drive becomes inaccessible, causing an interruption to data access services in the tape system. Furthermore, when a magnetic head is damaged, the entire tape drive must be replaced, reducing its lifespan. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a tape drive device, a storage system, a control method for magnetic heads, and a controller to improve the service life of the tape drive device.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a magnetic tape drive device, including a base, a plurality of magnetic heads disposed on the base, a head driver for driving the plurality of magnetic heads, and a magnetic tape. The plurality of magnetic heads includes a first magnetic head and a second magnetic head. The head driver is used to drive the first magnetic head to access the magnetic tape. Alternatively, the head driver is used to drive the second magnetic head to access the magnetic tape.

[0006] Based on the first aspect, by providing redundant heads, the tape drive can still provide data access functionality even when the heads need cleaning or replacement, without interrupting data access services. Furthermore, providing redundant heads can extend the lifespan of the heads in the magnetic disk, thereby extending the lifespan of the tape drive itself.

[0007] In one alternative implementation, the specific implementation is as follows: when the head driver is in the first state, the head driver drives the first head to access the magnetic tape; when the head driver is in the second state, the head driver drives the second head to access the magnetic tape.

[0008] In this way, the head driver is used to switch the magnetic head aligned with the tape between the first and second heads. Thus, in the event of head switching or head damage, the head driver can be controlled to quickly replace the head, ensuring uninterrupted data access.

[0009] In one alternative implementation, the head driver includes a rotating part, a first connector, and a second connector disposed on a base.

[0010] The first connector is connected to both the rotating part and the first magnetic head. The second connector is connected to both the rotating part and the second magnetic head; the first and second connectors intersect along the circumferential direction of the rotating part.

[0011] With the head driver in the first state, the rotating part drives the first connector to align the first head with the magnetic tape.

[0012] When the magnetic head driver is in the second state, the rotating part rotates by a first angle along the circumference of the rotating part, so that the second magnetic head connected to the second connector aligns with the magnetic tape.

[0013] Based on this optional implementation, a rotating part controls the rotation of the first and second connectors, allowing the magnetic head aligning the tape to switch between the first and second magnetic heads. Thus, in cases where head switching is required or a head is damaged, the magnetic head can be quickly replaced by rotating it, ensuring uninterrupted data access.

[0014] In one alternative implementation, the head driver includes:

[0015] The telescopic part is installed on the base;

[0016] The first slide rod is slidably connected to the telescopic part, and the first slide rod is connected to the first magnetic head;

[0017] The second slide rod is slidably connected to the telescopic part and is connected to the second magnetic head; the first slide rod and the second slide rod are arranged side by side along the axial direction of the telescopic part;

[0018] When the head driver is in the first state, the telescopic part controls the first slide bar to slide along the first direction on the telescopic part, so that the first head is aligned with the magnetic tape; the first direction is used to indicate the direction in which the head moves toward the magnetic tape.

[0019] When the head driver is in the second state, the telescopic part controls the second slide bar to slide along the first direction on the telescopic part, and controls the first slide bar to slide along the second direction on the telescopic part, so that the second head connected to the second slide bar is aligned with the magnetic tape; the second direction is used to indicate the direction in which the head moves away from the magnetic tape.

[0020] Based on this optional implementation, a telescopic mechanism is used to control the sliding of the first and second slide bars, allowing the magnetic head aligned with the tape to switch between the first and second magnetic heads. Thus, in cases where head switching is required or a head is damaged, the magnetic head can be quickly replaced using a head-lifting mechanism, ensuring uninterrupted data access.

[0021] In one alternative implementation, the tape drive device further includes:

[0022] A cleaning belt is installed inside the tape drive equipment;

[0023] Cleaning belt, used to clean the first or second magnetic head.

[0024] Based on this optional implementation method, a cleaning belt is added inside the tape drive. The cleaning belt cleans either the first or second magnetic head, thus achieving automatic cleaning of the magnetic heads in the tape drive.

[0025] In one alternative implementation, the specific implementation is as follows: when the head driver is in the second state, the second head accesses the magnetic tape, and the first head presses against the cleaning tape.

[0026] In this way, the magnetic head cleaning operation can be performed without interrupting the data access service. During the magnetic head cleaning process, the tape drive equipment does not interrupt the data access service.

[0027] In one alternative implementation, the cleaning belt is detachable.

[0028] In this way, if the cleaning belt fails or is damaged, it can be replaced in a timely manner without replacing the entire tape drive, thereby extending the service life of the tape drive.

[0029] In one alternative implementation, the tape drive device further includes:

[0030] The first reel is rotatably connected to the base.

[0031] The second drum is rotatably connected to the base;

[0032] The third reel is rotatably connected to the base;

[0033] The fourth reel is rotatably connected to the base;

[0034] The magnetic tape has its first end wound on the first reel and its second end wound on the second reel; the cleaning tape has its third end wound on the third reel and its fourth end wound on the fourth reel.

[0035] In this way, the cleaning tape and magnetic tape are set up and driven independently. During the head cleaning process, the head replacement is controlled by the head driver, so that the head cleaning operation can be performed without interrupting data access services.

[0036] In one alternative implementation, the tape drive device further includes:

[0037] The control unit is connected to the head driver;

[0038] The control unit is used to control the head driver to be in a first state or to control the head driver to be in a second state.

[0039] In this way, the state switching of the head driver is controlled by the control components, thereby realizing the automatic control of the head.

[0040] In one alternative implementation, the tape drive device further includes:

[0041] The detector is connected to the control unit.

[0042] A detector is used to acquire characteristic values ​​of the first magnetic head on the magnetic tape when the head driver is in a first state, and to transmit the characteristic values ​​to a control unit. The characteristic values ​​include one or more of the following: bit error rate of the head's read / write operations, uncorrectable error information, and calibration capability.

[0043] The control unit is also used to control the head driver to switch from the first state to the second state when the characteristic value meets the head cleaning condition.

[0044] Based on this optional implementation method, the detector collects the characteristic values ​​of the first magnetic head on the magnetic tape, and the control unit determines whether to perform magnetic head switching based on the characteristic values, thereby realizing automatic control of the magnetic head.

[0045] In one alternative implementation, the tape drive device further includes:

[0046] The housing includes a communication interface for connecting external devices;

[0047] The inner surface of the shell and the base form a cavity;

[0048] The magnetic tape, multiple magnetic heads, and head drivers are housed in the cavity.

[0049] By placing the magnetic tape, multiple magnetic heads, and head drivers inside a cavity, magnetic powder can be prevented from falling out, thereby effectively improving the ability of multiple magnetic heads (first or second head) to read and write signals in the magnetic tape drive, thus increasing the service life of the magnetic tape drive.

[0050] Secondly, this application provides a storage system. The storage system includes: a controller, and one or more tape drive devices as described in the first aspect or any optional implementation of the first aspect. The controller is configured to receive I / O requests and manage a target tape drive device among the one or more tape drive devices according to the I / O requests.

[0051] Thirdly, this application provides a method for controlling a magnetic head. In the implementation of a tape drive device processing a data access request, a processor acquires a data access request including a first address. In response to the data access request, the processor controls a head driver to drive a first magnetic head to access a first region in the tape corresponding to the first address. The processor acquires a feature value of the first magnetic head. If the feature value of the first magnetic head meets a cleaning condition, the processor controls a head driver to drive a second magnetic head to access the first region. The feature value includes one or more of the following: the bit error rate of the first magnetic head's read / write operations, uncorrectable error information, and calibration capability.

[0052] Based on the third aspect, during the data access and cleaning process of the tape drive, the first magnetic head accesses the first region corresponding to the first address on the tape. When the characteristic value of the first magnetic head meets the cleaning conditions, the processor controls the head driver to drive the second magnetic head to align with the first region of the tape. Thus, even if the magnetic head needs cleaning or replacement, the tape drive can still provide data access functionality without interrupting data access services. Furthermore, by providing redundant magnetic heads, the lifespan of the magnetic heads in the magnetic disk can be increased, thereby extending the lifespan of the tape drive itself.

[0053] In one optional implementation, the processor, after acquiring the feature value of the first magnetic head, if the feature value of the first magnetic head meets the cleaning conditions, controls the magnetic head driver to drive the second magnetic head to access the first region and drives the first magnetic head to press against the cleaning belt.

[0054] Based on this optional implementation, when the characteristic values ​​of the first magnetic head meet the cleaning conditions, the processor controls the head driver to drive the first magnetic head to press against the cleaning belt, thereby cleaning the first magnetic head using the cleaning belt. In this way, during the magnetic head cleaning process, the tape drive can still provide data access functionality without interrupting data access services.

[0055] In one optional implementation, the processor outputs a prompt message when the number of cleaning cycles of the cleaning belt meets a preset threshold. Alternatively, the processor outputs a prompt message when the second characteristic value of the first magnetic head after cleaning meets the head cleaning conditions. The prompt message indicates that the cleaning belt should be replaced.

[0056] In this way, the cleaning belt can be replaced promptly if it fails, thereby extending the lifespan of the tape drive.

[0057] In one alternative implementation, the processor can be a control component within the tape drive. Alternatively, the processor can be a controller connected to the tape drive.

[0058] Thus, the internal control components or external controllers of the tape drive are used to achieve automated control of the magnetic head.

[0059] Fourthly, this application provides a controller. The controller is applied to a magnetic tape drive device according to the first aspect or any optional implementation thereof. The controller includes a processor and a memory. The processor executes instructions stored in the memory to cause the controller to perform the operational steps provided by the third aspect or any optional implementation thereof.

[0060] Fifthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium includes computer instructions. When the computer instructions are executed in an electronic device, the electronic device implements the operational steps of the method provided in the third aspect or any optional implementation of the third aspect. For example, the electronic device may be a controller provided in the fourth aspect, a magnetic tape drive provided in the first aspect, or a storage system provided in the second aspect.

[0061] Sixthly, this application provides a computer program product. When the computer program product is run on an electronic device, the electronic device implements the operational steps of the method provided in the third aspect or any optional implementation of the third aspect. For example, the electronic device may be a controller provided in the fourth aspect, a magnetic tape drive provided in the first aspect, or a storage system provided in the second aspect.

[0062] The beneficial effects of aspects four through six can be found in the description of aspect three or any of its optional implementations, and will not be repeated here. Based on the implementations provided in the above aspects, this application can be further combined to provide even more implementations. Attached Figure Description

[0063] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the data access system provided in this application;

[0064] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the structure of the magnetic tape drive device provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 1 ;

[0065] Figure 3 This application provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a first reel and magnetic tape according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0066] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic head driver provided in this application embodiment. Figure 1 ;

[0067] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the magnetic head and the magnetic head driver provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0068] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic tape drive device provided in this application embodiment. Figure 2 ;

[0069] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic head driver provided in this application embodiment. Figure 2 ;

[0070] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic tape drive device provided in this application embodiment. Figure 3 ;

[0071] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the magnetic tape structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0072] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic tape drive device provided in this application embodiment. Figure 4 ;

[0073] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic tape drive device provided in this application embodiment. Figure 5 ;

[0074] Figure 12A This is a schematic diagram showing the placement of the cleaning belt in the magnetic tape drive equipment provided in this application embodiment. Figure 1 ;

[0075] Figure 12B This is a schematic diagram showing the placement of the cleaning belt in the magnetic tape drive equipment provided in this application embodiment. Figure 2 ;

[0076] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cleaning belt provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0077] Figure 14 Schematic diagram of the structure of the control component provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 1 ;

[0078] Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic tape drive device provided in this application embodiment. Figure 6 ;

[0079] Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic tape drive device provided in this application embodiment. Figure 7 ;

[0080] Figure 17 A flowchart illustrating the magnetic head control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0081] Figure 18 Schematic diagram of the structure of the control component provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 2 . Detailed Implementation

[0082] Currently, the head cleaning process on tape drives causes data access interruptions. Furthermore, if a head is damaged, the entire tape drive needs to be replaced, reducing its lifespan.

[0083] Therefore, to extend the lifespan of tape drive equipment while ensuring uninterrupted data access during head cleaning, this application provides a tape drive device. By incorporating a first and second magnetic head in the tape drive device, and providing redundant heads, the lifespan of the magnetic heads in the magnetic disk can be extended, thereby extending the lifespan of the tape drive device. Furthermore, data access functionality can still be provided during head cleaning, without interrupting data access services.

[0084] Specifically, the tape drive includes a base, multiple magnetic heads mounted on the base, a head driver for driving the multiple magnetic heads, and a magnetic tape. The multiple magnetic heads include a first magnetic head and a second magnetic head. The head driver is used to drive the first magnetic head to access the magnetic tape. Alternatively, the head driver is used to drive the second magnetic head to access the magnetic tape.

[0085] The technical solutions involved in this application may be applied not only to current magnetic tape technology or storage devices, but also to future magnetic tape technology or storage devices, or to storage systems including magnetic tape drive devices or storage devices. The terminology used in the embodiments section of this application is only for explaining specific embodiments of this application and is not intended to limit this application. A brief introduction to some concepts that may be involved in this application is given below.

[0086] Storage medium: A storage material used to record sound, images, digital signals, or other signals. This storage material may include, but is not limited to, magnetic tape, such as a tape-shaped material with a magnetic layer used to record sound, images, digital signals, or other signals. Magnetic tape contains a magnetic medium, such as magnetic powder, for storing data. For example, changes in the magnetic field in this magnetic medium are typically achieved by coating a plastic film substrate (support) with a layer of granular magnetic material or by evaporating and depositing a layer of magnetic oxide or alloy film. The substrate of magnetic tape may include, but is not limited to, paper, celluloid, or polyester film.

[0087] Magnetic head: A component that reads and writes data on magnetic tape using magnetic principles. It is divided into write heads and read heads. Write heads record data by magnetizing the magnetic medium (such as magnetic powder), while read heads read data from the magnetic medium by sensing its magnetic field.

[0088] Magnetic tape: Used for storing data. Magnetic tapes typically have multiple data tracks. The read / write head addresses these tracks to read data from or write data to the tape. The hardware structure of a magnetic tape can be found below. Figure 9 The provided embodiments are not described in detail here.

[0089] Head Cleaning Tape: Used for cleaning magnetic heads. Typically, the cleaning tape contains cleaning material or a wetting agent. When cleaning the magnetic head with the cleaning tape, the cleaning material or wetting agent on the tape surface removes dirt, magnetic particles, and other impurities adhering to the magnetic head surface. Alternatively, the cleaning tape has a rough surface. When cleaning the magnetic head with the tape, the rough surface of the cleaning tape contacts the magnetic head and generates friction, which removes dirt, magnetic particles, and other impurities from the magnetic head surface. For specific details on the surface structure of the cleaning tape, please refer to the following... Figure 5 The provided embodiments are not described in detail here.

[0090] Bit Error Rate (BER): Also known as the read / write error rate of the read / write head, or the error rate of read / write operations (hereinafter simply referred to as the error rate). The read / write error rate refers to the probability that an error will occur when the read / write head is reading or writing data. An error occurs when the actual data read (written) by the read / write head differs from the theoretically expected data.

[0091] Uncorrectable (UNC) error messages refer to errors in tape drive equipment where data cannot be read or written correctly.

[0092] Head calibration capability: also known as head positioning accuracy, refers to the ability of the read or write head in a magnetic tape drive to position itself within the magnetic tape. Head calibration capability is related to head positioning accuracy.

[0093] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0094] In the following description, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first," "second," etc., may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0095] Furthermore, in this application, directional terms such as "upper" and "lower" are defined relative to the orientation of the components shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these directional terms are relative concepts, used for relative description and clarification, and can change accordingly depending on the orientation of the components in the accompanying drawings.

[0096] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a data access system provided in this application. The data access system includes: a data access device 100 and a storage device 120. Figure 1 In the application scenario shown, users access data through applications. The computer running these applications can be referred to as a "computing device".

[0097] Data access device 100 can be a physical machine, a virtual machine, or a container. The physical machine can include, but is not limited to, one or both a client and a smart NIC. For example, data access device 100 includes a client, such as a host, desktop computer, server, laptop, or mobile device. Another example is that data access device 100 includes a smart NIC. This smart NIC, also known as a smart network adapter, not only performs the network transmission functions of a standard NIC but also provides a built-in programmable and configurable hardware acceleration engine. This improves application performance and significantly reduces CPU consumption in the host connected to the smart NIC, providing more CPU resources for the application. For example, in a highly virtualized environment, the host CPU needs to run open virtual switch (OVS) related tasks. Simultaneously, the host CPU also needs to handle operations such as storage, online or offline encryption / decryption of data packets, deep packet inspection, firewalls, and complex routing. These operations not only consume significant CPU resources but also, due to competition for CPU resources between different services, prevent the service performance from reaching its optimal level. As a hub connecting various services, smart network interface cards (NICs) accelerate these services.

[0098] In one possible example, data access device 100 accesses storage device 120 via a network to access data; for example, the network may include switch 110.

[0099] In another possible example, data access device 100 may also communicate with storage device 120 via a wired connection, such as a universal serial bus (USB) or a peripheral component interconnect express (PCIe) bus.

[0100] Figure 1 The storage device 120 shown can be a centralized storage system. A key feature of a centralized storage system is a unified entry point through which all data from external devices passes; this entry point is the engine 121 of the centralized storage system. The engine 121 has management functions, and many advanced functions of the storage system are implemented within it.

[0101] like Figure 1 As shown, engine 121 may have one or more controllers. Figure 1 The following example illustrates the concept of engine 121 containing one controller. In one possible example, if engine 121 has multiple controllers, any two controllers can have a mirror channel, enabling any two controllers to serve as backups for each other, thereby preventing hardware failures from causing the entire storage device 120 to become unavailable. It should be understood that if engine 121 includes multiple controllers, then engine 121 can also be referred to as the array controller of storage device 120.

[0102] Engine 121 also includes a front-end interface 1211 and a back-end interface 1214. The front-end interface 1211 is used to communicate with the data access device 100 to provide data access services to the data access device 100. The back-end interface 1214 is used to communicate with hard drives to expand the capacity of the storage device 120. Through the back-end interface 1214, engine 121 can connect to more hard drives, thereby forming a very large storage resource pool.

[0103] In terms of hardware, such as Figure 1 As shown, the controller includes at least a processor 1212 and memory 1213. The processor 1212 is a central processing unit (CPU) used to process data access requests from outside the storage device 120 (servers or other storage systems), and also to process requests generated internally by the storage device 120. For example, when the processor 1212 receives write data requests from the data access device 100 through the front-end interface 1211, it temporarily stores the data in these write data requests in memory 1213. When the total amount of data in memory 1213 reaches a certain threshold, the processor 1212 sends the data stored in memory 1213 to at least one of the following hard drives for persistent storage: a mechanical hard drive 1221, a solid-state drive (SSD) 1222, a tape drive 200, or another hard drive 1224, through a back-end port.

[0104] Memory 1213 refers to internal memory that directly exchanges data with the processor. It can read and write data at any time and at high speed, serving as temporary data storage for the operating system or other running programs. Memory includes at least two types of memory, such as random access memory (RAM) or read-only memory (ROM). For example, RAM can be DRAM or SCM. DRAM is a semiconductor memory and, like most RAM, is a type of volatile memory device. However, DRAM and SCM are merely illustrative examples in this embodiment; memory can also include other types of RAM, such as static random access memory (SRAM). For read-only memory, examples include programmable read-only memory (PROM) and erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM). Additionally, memory 1213 can also be a dual in-line memory module (DIMM), i.e., a module composed of dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or an SSD. In practical applications, the controller can be configured with multiple memory modules 1213, and different types of memory modules 1213. This embodiment does not limit the number or type of memory modules 1213. Furthermore, memory modules 1213 can be configured to have a power-saving function. The power-saving function means that when the system loses power and then regains power, the data stored in memory modules 1213 will not be lost. Memory with a power-saving function is called non-volatile memory. Memory modules 1213 store software programs, and processor 1212 can run the software programs in memory modules 1213 to manage the hard disk. For example, the hard disk can be abstracted as a storage resource pool, and the storage resource pool can be provided to the server in the form of logical unit numbers (LUNs). Here, the LUN is actually the hard disk seen on the server. Of course, some centralized storage systems are also file servers themselves, and can provide shared file services to the server.

[0105] like Figure 1As shown, in this system, engine 121 may not have a hard drive slot; the hard drive needs to be placed in disk enclosure 122, and the back-end interface 1214 communicates with disk enclosure 122. The back-end interface 1214 exists in the form of an adapter card within engine 121, and two or more back-end interfaces 1214 can be used simultaneously on one engine 121 to connect multiple disk enclosures. Alternatively, the adapter card can be integrated onto the motherboard, in which case the adapter card can communicate with processor 1212 via the PCIe bus.

[0106] It should be noted that, Figure 1 Only one engine 121 is shown in the figure. However, in actual applications, the storage system may contain two or more engines 121, and redundancy or load balancing may be performed between multiple engines 121.

[0107] The disk enclosure 122 includes a control unit 1225 and several hard drives. The control unit 1225 can have various forms. In one case, the disk enclosure 122 is a smart disk enclosure, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the control unit 1225 includes a CPU and memory. The CPU is used to perform operations such as address translation and reading / writing data. The memory is used to temporarily store data to be written to the hard disk or to read data from the hard disk to be sent to the controller. Alternatively, the control unit 1225 is a programmable electronic component, such as a data processing unit (DPU). A DPU has the versatility and programmability of a CPU, but is more specialized, capable of efficiently operating on network packets, storage requests, or analysis requests. A DPU differs from a CPU by its high degree of parallelism (the ability to handle a large number of requests). Optionally, the DPU can be replaced by a graphics processing unit (GPU), an embedded neural network processing unit (NPU), or other processing chips. Typically, there can be one, two, or more control units 1225. The functions of the control unit 1225 can be offloaded to the network interface card (NIC) 1226. In other words, in this embodiment, the disk drive 122 does not contain a control unit 1225; instead, the NIC 1226 performs data reading / writing, address translation, and other computational functions. At this point, network interface card 1226 is a smart network interface card. It can contain a CPU and memory. The CPU is used to perform address translation and data reading / writing operations. Memory is used to temporarily store data to be written to the hard drive or to read data from the hard drive to be sent to the controller. It can also be a programmable electronic component, such as a DPU. There is no ownership relationship between network interface card 1226 and hard drives in disk enclosure 122; network interface card 1226 can access any hard drive in disk enclosure 122 (e.g., ...). Figure 1The mechanical hard drive 1221, solid-state drive 1222, tape drive device 200 and other hard drives 1224 shown are examples of hard drives that make it easier to expand hard drives when storage space is insufficient.

[0108] In this embodiment, the tape drive device 200 refers to a memory that includes a magnetic tape medium. In hardware implementation, the tape drive device may include, but is not limited to, a magnetic tape, a magnetic head, and a tape drive assembly. The tape drive assembly is used to reel in the magnetic tape or cleaning tape, and the magnetic head is used to access the magnetic tape, such as writing data to or reading data from the tape. Specific implementation details of the tape drive device are provided below. Figures 2 to 10 The embodiments shown are not described in detail here.

[0109] Depending on the type of communication protocol between engine 121 and disk enclosure 122, disk enclosure 122 may be a serially attached small computer system interface (SAS) disk enclosure, an NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) disk enclosure, or other types of disk enclosures. SAS disk enclosures use the SAS 3.0 protocol, and each enclosure supports 25 SAS hard drives. Engine 121 connects to disk enclosure 122 via an onboard SAS interface or a SAS interface module. NVMe disk enclosures function more like a complete computer system, with NVMe hard drives inserted into them. The NVMe disk enclosure then connects to engine 121 via an RDMA port. In some cases, engine 121 may also be referred to as a hard drive management device or storage controller.

[0110] In terms of hardware implementation, the disk enclosure 122 can be installed in a storage system (such as a hard disk enclosure), or the disk enclosure 122 can be encapsulated and set up independently. When the disk enclosure 122 is set up independently, the disk enclosure 122 can also be called a storage device or a storage system, and this application does not limit it in this way.

[0111] In one alternative implementation, storage device 120 is a centralized storage system integrating disk and controller. Storage device 120 does not have the aforementioned disk enclosure 122, and engine 121 is used to manage multiple hard drives connected via hard drive slots. The functionality of the hard drive slots can be implemented by backend interface 1214.

[0112] In some alternative implementations, storage device 120 is a distributed storage system. The distributed storage system includes a cluster of compute nodes and a cluster of storage nodes. The compute node cluster includes one or more compute nodes that can communicate with each other. Compute nodes can be servers, desktop computers, or controllers of storage arrays, etc. Hardware-wise, compute nodes can include processors, memory, and network interface cards (NICs), etc. The processor is a CPU used to process data access requests from outside the compute node or requests generated internally within the compute node. For example, when the processor receives a write data request from a user, it temporarily stores the data in the write data request in memory. When the total amount of data in memory reaches a certain threshold, the processor sends the data stored in memory to the storage node for persistent storage. In addition, the processor is also used for data computation or processing, such as metadata management, deduplication, data compression, virtualization of storage space, and address translation. In the embodiments provided in this application, the storage node can be a tape drive or other types of hard disks, etc. It is understood that the storage system described in the embodiments of this application can be a distributed storage system integrating storage and computing, or a distributed storage system separating storage and computing; this application does not limit this.

[0113] For example, a distributed storage system can be implemented using network attached storage (NAS) technology. NAS refers to a network storage architecture that provides storage resources through file-level data access and sharing over an Internet Protocol (IP) network. In a NAS scenario, the NAS is an external device for the server / host, used to provide file-level storage space for the server / host in the distributed storage system.

[0114] It is worth noting that the above examples are merely possible implementations of the data access system provided in this embodiment and should not be construed as limiting this application. For example, Figure 1In the storage device 120 shown, data is stored as files on various hard drives. The files stored on each hard drive constitute a file storage system, which could be a distributed file system, such as a network file system (NFS). NFS is both a distributed file system and a network protocol used for accessing and sharing files between devices on the same local area network. For example, a NAS system can be implemented using the NFS protocol. A network file system is a low-cost network file-sharing option that allows users and applications to access, store, and update files on remote computers, just like using direct-attached storage. Network file systems use the Remote Procedure Call (RPC) protocol to route requests between clients and servers. While participating devices need to support network file systems, they do not need to know the details of the network. It is worth noting that RPC can be insecure, so network file systems should only be deployed on trusted networks behind firewalls. Although Windows supports this protocol, it is primarily used in Linux environments.

[0115] Regarding the aforementioned tape drive device 200, this application provides an optional example, such as... Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the magnetic tape drive device provided in this application Figure 1 The tape drive device 200 can be used to implement the functions of the tape drive device 200 described above. In this document, the tape drive device may also be referred to as a tape media storage device, a tape all-in-one device, an all-in-one tape disk, an all-in-one tape drive, or a magneto-electric disk (MED), etc., and this application does not limit it in this way.

[0116] The following is combined with Figure 2 The tape drive device 200 is described by way of example and includes: tape 210, tape driver 220, first magnetic head 230a, second magnetic head 230b, head driver 240, first spool 201a, second spool 201b, roller 202, base 203 and control unit 250.

[0117] The first reel 201a is rotatably connected to the base 203, and the second reel 201b is rotatably connected to the base 203. In the magnetic tape drive 200, the first end of the magnetic tape 210 is wound onto the first reel 201a, and the second end of the magnetic tape 210 is wound onto the second reel 201b. For example, the first end of the magnetic tape 210 is the beginning end of the magnetic tape 210, and the second end of the magnetic tape 210 is the end end of the magnetic tape 210. Or, for another example, the second end of the magnetic tape 210 is the beginning end of the magnetic tape 210, and the first end of the magnetic tape 210 is the end end of the magnetic tape 210.

[0118] Regarding the structural relationship between the reel (first reel 201a or second reel 201b) and the magnetic tape 210, the following is a detailed explanation. Figure 3 Provided as an example, Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first reel and magnetic tape provided for this application. Please refer to... Figure 3 The first reel 201a includes a reel 2013, a first cover plate 2011, and a second cover plate 2012. The reel 2013 and the base 203 are rotatably connected. The magnetic tape 210 is located between the first cover plate 2011 and the second cover plate 2012. The first cover plate 2011 and the second cover plate 2012 can constrain the magnetic tape 210 and prevent the magnetic tape 210 from detaching from the reel 2013. During the rotation of the reel 2013, the first cover plate 2011 and the second cover plate 2012 rotate synchronously.

[0119] The first cover plate 2011 can be as follows: Figure 3 The circular plate-like structure shown can have a second cover plate 2012 as follows: Figure 3 The circular plate-like structure shown.

[0120] The embodiments of this application do not limit the shape of the first cover plate 2011 and the second cover plate 2012. For example, the first cover plate 2011 can be a circular, square, elliptical, or irregularly shaped plate. Similarly, the second cover plate 2012 can be a circular, square, elliptical, or irregularly shaped plate. The shape of the first cover plate 2011 can be the same as or different from the shape of the second cover plate 2012.

[0121] For example, the connection between the first cover plate 2011 and the roll 2013 can be achieved by welding, snap-fitting, or bonding. Similarly, the connection between the second cover plate 2012 and the roll 2013 can be achieved by welding, snap-fitting, or bonding.

[0122] Please return Figure 2 During the tape winding process of the magnetic tape 210, in order to prevent the magnetic head from tearing the magnetic tape 210, the first roller 202 in the tape drive device 200 can be used to support the tape body of the magnetic tape 210, so that the magnetic tape 210 reduces the friction between the magnetic tape and the magnetic head (such as the first magnetic head 230a or the second magnetic head 230b) during the winding process, which is beneficial to improving the service life of the magnetic tape 210.

[0123] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown in the provided embodiments, the tape drive 220 is used to drive the tape 210 for rewinding. The magnetic heads (such as a first head 230a or a second head 230b) in the tape drive device 200 access the tape 210 during the rewinding process. The control unit 250 is used to control the speed at which the tape drive 220 drives the tape 210 according to the I / O stream or I / O request, and to control the head drive 240 to alternately drive the first head 230a and the second head 230b to access the tape region in the tape 210.

[0124] For example, the control unit 250 includes at least a processor and memory. The processor is a CPU used to process data access requests (such as I / O requests) from outside the tape drive device 200 (servers or other storage systems), and also to process requests generated internally by the tape drive device 200 (such as head replacement requests, head cleaning requests, etc.). In one example, when the processor receives write data requests from a data access device or host through a front-end interface, it temporarily stores the data in these write data requests in memory. When the total amount of data in memory reaches a certain threshold, the processor stores the data in memory onto the tape 210 for persistent storage through a back-end port.

[0125] Furthermore, in another example, the control unit 250, in response to a head replacement request or a head cleaning request, controls the head driver 240 to drive the first head 230a and the second head 230b to replace each other. The structure of the head driver 240 can be referred to below. Figures 4 to 8 The provided embodiments, and the implementation method of the control unit 250 controlling the head driver 240 to drive the first head 230a and the second head 230b for replacement, can be referred to below. Figure 17 The provided embodiments are not described in detail here.

[0126] In the embodiments of this application, the meaning of "replacing the first magnetic head 230a and the second magnetic head 230b" includes: the magnetic head accessing the magnetic tape area in the magnetic tape 210 is switched from the first magnetic head 230a to the second magnetic head 230b, so that the first magnetic head 230a performs data reading and writing on the magnetic tape 210; or the magnetic head accessing the magnetic tape area in the magnetic tape 210 is switched from the second magnetic head 230b to the first magnetic head 230a, so that the second magnetic head 230b performs data reading and writing on the magnetic tape 210.

[0127] Please continue reading. Figure 2 As an optional implementation, the tape drive 220 includes a tape reel motor and a voice coil motor (VCM) motor.

[0128] The tape reel motor is used to drive the magnetic tape 210 to wind along its length. For example, the tape reel motor can be used to drive a reel (such as a first reel 201a and a second reel 201b) to rewind the magnetic tape wound on the reel in the forward direction, in the reverse direction, or stop rewinding. Forward and reverse are two opposite directions along the length of the magnetic tape.

[0129] The VCM motor is used to drive the magnetic tape 210 to move along the width of the tape 210, so that the magnetic head 230 can access different tracks or wraps in the tape 210. The VCM is a direct drive motor, and its working principle includes: a current-carrying coil placed in a magnetic field will generate a force, the magnitude of which is proportional to the current applied to the coil. Based on this principle, the movement of the VCM can be linear or circular.

[0130] Optionally, the tape drive 220 may also include a stepper motor for fine-tuning the winding position or speed of the tape 210 along its length. This stepper motor is a type of electric motor that converts electrical pulse signals into corresponding angular or linear displacements. For each input pulse signal, the rotor rotates by an angle or moves forward one step; the output angular or linear displacement is proportional to the number of input pulses, and the rotational speed is proportional to the pulse frequency. Therefore, a stepper motor is also called a pulse motor.

[0131] It is worth noting that the tape drive 220 described above are merely examples provided in the embodiments of this application and should not be construed as limiting the application. The tape drive 220 may also include devices such as linear motors, hydraulic cylinders, or pneumatic cylinders, which are not limited in this application.

[0132] As an optional implementation, the magnetic head (such as the first magnetic head 230a or the second magnetic head 230b) may include one or both of a write data head and a read data head. The write data head records data by magnetizing and changing the magnetic field of the magnetic medium (such as magnetic powder), while the read data head reads data on the magnetic medium by sensing the magnetic field of the magnetic medium.

[0133] In some alternative configurations, the magnetic head (such as the first magnetic head 230a or the second magnetic head 230b) may also include a servo head, which may be divided into a write servo head and a read servo head. Taking the read servo head as an example, the read servo head can determine the position information of the tape 210 based on the address in the IO request, and the tape driver 220 can rewind the tape 210 from its current position to the tape area indicated by the position information, thereby allowing the read data head to read the data stored in the tape area indicated by the position information.

[0134] It is understandable that the tape drive device 200 may also include an application and a driver. These are used to acquire data access requests (such as read or write requests) or send access responses to the host, such as write or read responses. For example, after an application triggers a read / write operation, the IO data stream is sent to the firmware corresponding to the tape 210 via the driver. The firmware then issues instructions to control the motor to drive the tape 210 in linear addressing. Once the desired position is reached, the read / write operation is achieved by the magnetic head (such as the first magnetic head 230a or the second magnetic head 230b) through the ADC / DAC channel for encoding and decoding.

[0135] Please continue reading. Figure 2 The head driver 240 is connected to the control unit 250, the first head 230a, and the second head 230b. The head driver 240 is used to drive the first head 230a or the second head 230b to align the magnetic tape 210, and to drive the first head 230a and the second head 230b to replace each other.

[0136] Regarding the implementation method of replacing the first magnetic head 230a and the second magnetic head 230b by the head driver 240, the following is combined with... Figures 4 to 8 An example is provided.

[0137] As an alternative implementation, the head driver 240 can drive the first head 230a and the second head 230b to replace each other by rotating the head.

[0138] The following combination Figures 4 to 5 The structure of the head driver 240 in the mode of head rotation will be described by way of example.

[0139] like Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic head driver provided in this application embodiment. Figure 1 The head driver 240 shown includes: a rotating part 241A, a first connector 242A, and a second connector 243A.

[0140] The rotating part 241A is provided in the aforementioned base 203. Figure 4 On (not shown), the rotating part 241A and the aforementioned control component 250 ( Figure 4 (Not shown in the image) Connection.

[0141] The first connector 242A is connected to the rotating part 241A and the first magnetic head 230a respectively.

[0142] The second connector 243A is connected to the rotating part 241A and the second magnetic head 230b, respectively.

[0143] like Figure 4As shown, the first connector 242A and the second connector 243A intersect along the circumferential direction of the rotating part 241A.

[0144] Combination Figure 4 As can be seen from the provided example, the rotating part 241A is used to achieve the rotational connection between the first magnetic head 230a, the second magnetic head 230b and the base 203. Thus, in the implementation of the magnetic head driver 240 replacing the first magnetic head 230a and the second magnetic head 230b, the rotating part 241A is used to control the rotation of the first connector 242A and the second connector 243A to achieve magnetic head switching.

[0145] In one alternative implementation, the first connector 242A and the second connector 243A may intersect along the circumferential direction of the rotating portion 241A to form an included angle of a first angle. This first angle is related to the number of second magnetic heads 230b provided in the magneto device 200. This application embodiment does not limit the number of second magnetic heads 230b, and correspondingly, does not limit the specific range of the first angle.

[0146] For example, the magneto device 200 includes a first magnetic head 230a and a second magnetic head 230b, such as Figure 5 As shown in Figure (a), the head driver 240 includes a first connector a1 and a second connector b1, which intersect at an angle of 180° along the circumferential direction of the rotating part 241A.

[0147] For example, the magneto device 200 includes a first magnetic head 230a and two second magnetic heads 230b. Relative to... Figure 5 The connection relationship shown in Figure (a) is in Figure 5 In the connection diagram shown in Figure (b), the head driver 240 further includes a second connector b2. The second connector b2 is connected to the second head 230c. The first connector a1 and the second connector b1 intersect at a 120° angle along the circumferential direction of the rotating part 241A. Correspondingly, the first connector a1 and the second connector b2 intersect at a 120° angle along the circumferential direction of the rotating part 241A, and the second connector b1 and the second connector b2 intersect at a 120° angle along the circumferential direction of the rotating part 241A.

[0148] For example, the magneto device 200 includes a first magnetic head 230a and three second magnetic heads 230b, relative to... Figure 5 The connection relationship shown in Figure (b) is in Figure 5In the connection diagram shown in Figure (c), the head driver 240 further includes a second connector b3. The second connector b3 is connected to the second head 230d. The first connector a1 and the second connector b1 intersect at a 90° angle along the circumferential direction of the rotating part 241A. Correspondingly, the first connector a1 and the second connector b3 intersect at a 90° angle along the circumferential direction of the rotating part 241A, the second connector b1 and the second connector b2 intersect at a 90° angle along the circumferential direction of the rotating part 241A, and the second connector b2 and the second connector b3 intersect at a 90° angle along the circumferential direction of the rotating part 241A.

[0149] It should be noted that the above three examples are merely exemplary descriptions of different connection relationships between the first magnetic head 230a and the second magnetic head 230b. In other examples, the magneto device 200 may also include... Figure 5 This application does not limit the number of second heads 230b or first heads 230a.

[0150] As an optional implementation, the rotating part 241A includes a motor and a reducer. The reducer and the output end of the motor are connected. The motor controls the first connecting member and the second connecting member to rotate clockwise, counterclockwise, or stop rotating in the circumferential direction of the rotating part 241A by rotating forward or reverse.

[0151] Taking the head driver 240, which includes a first connector a1 and a second connector b1, as an example, Figure 6 As shown, Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic tape drive device provided in this application embodiment. Figure 2 .

[0152] exist Figure 6 In (1), when the head driver 240 is in the first state, the motor rotates, causing the rotating part 241A to rotate. The rotating part 241A controls the first connector a1 to be positioned above the first region (region 1) in the magnetic tape 210, that is, the first connector a1 is located on the side of the head driver 240 closer to the magnetic tape 210, and the distance between the first connector a1 and the magnetic tape 210 is less than the distance between the second connector b1 and the magnetic tape 210; the first head 230a connected to the first connector a1 is aligned with the first region (region 1) in the magnetic tape 210. The second connector b1 is located in the direction opposite to the first connector a1.

[0153] exist Figure 6In (2), when the head driver 240 is in the second state, the motor rotates, causing the rotating part 241A to rotate 180° clockwise around the circumference of the rotating part 241A. The second connector b1 is located above the first region (region 1) in the magnetic tape 210, that is, the second connector b1 is located on the side of the head driver 240 closer to the magnetic tape 210, and the distance between the second connector b1 and the magnetic tape 210 is less than the distance between the first connector a1 and the magnetic tape 210. The second magnetic head 230b connected to the second connector b1 is aligned with the first region (region 1) in the magnetic tape 210. The first connector a1 is located in the direction opposite to the second connector b1, and the first magnetic head 230a connected to the first connector a1 is away from the magnetic tape 210.

[0154] In the embodiments of this application, "the first magnetic head 230a is away from the magnetic tape 210" means that the first magnetic head 230a is not aligned with the magnetic tape 210, that is, the first magnetic head 230a does not perform data reading and writing.

[0155] Combination Figure 6 As can be seen from (1) and (2), when the head driver 240 is in the first state, the rotating part 241A rotates by a second angle. The second angle is smaller than the first angle.

[0156] Combination Figure 6 As can be seen from the provided content, the rotation unit 241A controls the rotation of the first and second connectors, causing the magnetic head of the aligned magnetic tape 210 to switch between the first magnetic head 230a and the second magnetic head 230b. Thus, in the event of needing to switch magnetic heads or if a magnetic head is damaged, the magnetic head can be quickly replaced by rotating it, ensuring uninterrupted data access.

[0157] The above Figures 4 to 6 The structure of the head driver 240 is described using the head rotation method as an example. In other embodiments, the first head 230a and the second head 230b can be replaced by driving them using a sliding method. The following description, combined with... Figures 7 to 9 The structure of the head driver 240, which involves head sliding, will be described by way of example.

[0158] like Figure 7 As shown, Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic head driver provided in this application embodiment. Figure 2 The head driver 240 shown includes: a telescopic part 241B, a first slide bar 242B, and a second slide bar 243B.

[0159] In this design, one end of the first slide rod 242B is slidably connected to the telescopic part 241B, and the other end of the first slide rod 242B is connected to the first magnetic head 230a. This allows the relative position of the first magnetic head 230a and the telescopic part 241B to change. For example, the first slide rod 242B and the telescopic part 241B can be slidably connected through structures such as slide rails, slide grooves, and elastic components.

[0160] One end of the second slide rod 243B is slidably connected to the telescopic part 241B, and the other end of the second slide rod 243B is connected to the second magnetic head 230b. This allows the relative position of the second magnetic head 230b and the telescopic part 241B to change. For example, the first slide rod 242B and the telescopic part 241B can be slidably connected by a slide rail, a slide groove, an elastic component, or other structures.

[0161] The telescopic part 241B is provided on the aforementioned base 203. Figure 7 (Not shown in the image) The telescopic part 241B is slidably connected to the first end of the slide rod (first slide rod 242B and second slide rod 243B) along the axial direction of the slide rod (first slide rod 242B and second slide rod 243B). The first slide rod 242B and the second slide rod 243B are arranged side by side along the horizontal axial direction of the telescopic part 241B.

[0162] Specifically, the first axial end of the slide rod (first slide rod 242B and second slide rod 243B) is the end of the slide rod (first slide rod 242B and second slide rod 243B) away from the base 203 along the axial direction of the slide rod (first slide rod 242B and second slide rod 243B). Alternatively, the first axial end of the slide rod (first slide rod 242B and second slide rod 243B) is the end of the slide rod (first slide rod 242B and second slide rod 243B) closer to the base 203 along the axial direction of the slide rod (first slide rod 242B and second slide rod 243B).

[0163] The arrangement of the first slide bar 242B and the second slide bar 243B side by side along the horizontal axial direction of the telescopic part 241B can include the following two optional examples:

[0164] In the first example, the first slide bar 242B and the second slide bar 243B are arranged side by side along the horizontal axial direction of the first side of the telescopic part 241B. The first side can refer to the side of the telescopic part 241B closest to the magnetic tape 210 in the vertical axial direction.

[0165] In the second example, the first slide bar 242B is arranged along the horizontal axial direction of the first side of the telescopic part 241B, and the second slide bar 243B is arranged along the horizontal axial direction of the second side of the telescopic part 241B. The second side can refer to the side of the telescopic part 241B that is away from the magnetic tape 210 in the vertical axial direction.

[0166] It should be noted that the above two examples are only used to illustrate the arrangement of the first slide bar 242B and the second slide bar 243B side by side along the horizontal axial direction of the telescopic part 241B. In practical applications, the first slide bar 242B and the second slide bar 243B may have other arrangements on the telescopic part 241B, and this application does not limit them. For example, the first slide bar 242B may be arranged along the horizontal axial direction of the second side of the telescopic part 241B, and the second slide bar 243B may be arranged along the horizontal axial direction of the first side of the telescopic part 241B.

[0167] It is worth noting that when the first slide bar 242B is arranged along the horizontal axial direction of the first side of the telescopic part 241B and the second slide bar 243B is arranged along the horizontal axial direction of the second side of the telescopic part 241B, or when the first slide bar 242B is arranged along the horizontal axial direction of the second side of the telescopic part 241B and the second slide bar 243B is arranged along the horizontal axial direction of the first side of the telescopic part 241B, the telescopic part 241B and the base 203 can be rotatably connected. For example, the telescopic part 241B can be rotatably connected to the base 203 through a rotating assembly, so that the telescopic part 241B can rotate in the circumferential direction, thereby allowing the slide bars (first slide bar 242B and second slide bar 243B) arranged on both sides of the vertical axis of the telescopic part 241B to be aligned with the magnetic tape 210.

[0168] As an optional implementation, the telescopic part 241B includes a base and a drive component.

[0169] The base is equipped with multiple slide rails, grooves, or elastic components. The slide rods (first slide rod 242B and second slide rod 243B) are slidably connected to the base via the slide rails, grooves, or elastic components provided on the base.

[0170] The drive unit is mounted on the base. The drive unit is connected to the first slide bar 242B and the second slide bar 243B respectively. The drive assembly is used to control the slide bar (first slide bar 242B or second slide bar 243B) to slide along a first direction or a second direction opposite to the first direction, wherein the first direction refers to the direction in which the magnetic head (first magnetic head 230a or second magnetic head 230b) moves towards the magnetic tape. The second direction refers to the direction in which the magnetic head (first magnetic head 230a or second magnetic head 230b) moves away from the magnetic tape.

[0171] This application does not limit the specific structure of the driving component. Exemplarily, the driving component may include a motor and a reducer. The reducer and the output end of the motor are connected. The motor controls the first slide rod 242B to slide on the base along a first direction or a second direction by rotating forward or reverse, or controls the second slide rod 243B to slide on the base along a first direction or a second direction.

[0172] For example, when the head driver 240 is in the first state, the direction in which the head (first head 230a or second head 230b) moves toward the magnetic tape refers to the direction in which the first head 230a moves toward the magnetic tape 210, or the direction in which the second head 230b moves toward the magnetic tape 210.

[0173] For example, when the head driver 240 is in the second state, the direction in which the head (first head 230a or second head 230b) moves away from the magnetic tape refers to the direction in which the first head 230a moves toward the telescopic section 241B, or the direction in which the second head 230b moves toward the telescopic section 241B.

[0174] Combination Figure 7 In the provided example, a telescopic part 241B is provided on the base 203, and the magnetic heads (first magnetic head 230a and second magnetic head 230b) are slidably connected to the telescopic part 241B via slide rods (first slide rod 242B and second slide rod 243B). In the implementation where the magnetic head driver 240 drives the first magnetic head 230a or the second magnetic head 230b to align with the magnetic tape 210, the magnetic head is raised and lowered by controlling the sliding direction of the first slide rod 242B or the second slide rod 243B to achieve magnetic head switching.

[0175] Please see Figure 8 , Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic tape drive device provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 3 .

[0176] exist Figure 8 In (1), when the magnetic head driver 240 is in the first state, the telescopic part 241B controls the first slide bar 242B to slide along the first direction on the telescopic part 241B, so that the first slide bar 242B is close to the top of the first region (region 1) in the magnetic tape 210, and the first magnetic head 230a connected to the first slide bar 242B is aligned with the first region (region 1) in the magnetic tape 210.

[0177] exist Figure 8 In (2), when the head driver 240 is in the second state, the telescopic part 241B controls the second slide bar 243B to slide along the first direction on the telescopic part 241B, so that the second slide bar 243B is close to the top of the first region (region 1) in the magnetic tape 210, and the second magnetic head 230b connected to the second slide bar 243B is aligned with the first region (region 1) in the magnetic tape 210. The telescopic part 241B controls the first slide bar 242B to slide along the second direction on the telescopic part 241B, so that the first slide bar 242B is close to the telescopic part 241B, and the first magnetic head 230a connected to the first slide bar 242B is away from the magnetic tape 210.

[0178] Combination Figure 8As can be seen from (1) and (2) in the text, the telescopic part 241B controls the sliding of the first slide bar 242B and the second slide bar 243B, so that the magnetic head of the aligned magnetic tape 210 switches between the first magnetic head 230a and the second magnetic head 230b. In this way, when it is necessary to switch magnetic heads or when the magnetic head is damaged, the magnetic head can be quickly replaced by lifting the magnetic head, ensuring that the data access service is not interrupted.

[0179] It should be noted that the above Figure 7 and Figure 8 The accompanying drawings are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the tape drive device 200 provided in the embodiments of this application. In other embodiments, the first slide bar 242B is slidably connected to the base 203 and is connected to the first magnetic head 230a; the second slide bar 243B is slidably connected to the base 203 and is connected to the second magnetic head 230b. This application does not limit the scope of the application in this regard.

[0180] Regarding the structure of magnetic tape 210, the following will be combined with... Figure 9 Provided as an example, Figure 9 This application provides a schematic diagram of a magnetic tape structure. In hardware implementation, the magnetic tape 210 may include one or more data bands, such as data band 1 to data band 4. Data bands are data tracks on the magnetic tape 210. Different data bands are separated and positioned by servo tapes, and multiple data bands are arranged side-by-side along the length of the magnetic tape 210. Each data band contains multiple wraps, i.e., data transmission from one end of the magnetic tape 210 to the other. Each wrap includes one or more tracks, and each track is accessed by a read head / write head. The number and size of data bands in the magnetic tape 210 depend on the generation and capacity of the tape. "Wrap" is a term used in magnetic tape terminology; "wrap" refers to the movement of a head on a data band.

[0181] Taking data tape 1 in magnetic tape 210 as an example, data tape 1 includes multiple tracks, such as track 1 and track 2. In magnetic tape 210, different tracks are arranged side-by-side along the width of magnetic tape 210. A track is a magnetic region in the magnetic tape used for recording data. In magnetic tape technology, data storage on magnetic tape 210 is achieved by magnetizing the tracks with a magnetic head 230.

[0182] above Figure 9 The magnetic tape 210 shown is only an optional embodiment provided by this application. Depending on the capacity of the magnetic tape 210 and user needs, the magnetic tape 210 may have more or fewer data tapes, or the magnetic tape 210 may have more or fewer tracks. This application does not limit this.

[0183] To achieve automatic cleaning of the magnetic heads in the tape drive 200, while ensuring uninterrupted data access during the head cleaning process. Figures 2 to 9 Based on the provided tape drive device 200, a cleaning belt 260 is added inside the tape drive device 200. The cleaning belt 260 is used to clean the first magnetic head 230a or the second magnetic head 230b.

[0184] like Figure 10 As shown, Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic tape drive device provided in this application embodiment. Figure 4 In contrast Figure 2 The provided tape drive equipment 200, in Figure 10 The tape drive device 200 shown also includes a tape drive assembly 40, a cleaning tape 260, a third reel 204a, and a fourth reel 204b.

[0185] like Figure 10 As shown, the third reel 204a is rotatably connected to the base 203, and the fourth reel 204b is rotatably connected to the base 203. In the magnetic tape drive device 200, the third end of the cleaning tape 260 is wound onto the third reel 204a, and the fourth end of the cleaning tape 260 is wound onto the fourth reel 204b. For example, the third end of the cleaning tape 260 is the beginning end of the cleaning tape 260, and the fourth end of the magnetic cleaning tape 260 is the end end of the cleaning tape 260. Or, for another example, the third end of the cleaning tape 260 is the end end of the cleaning tape 260, and the fourth end of the magnetic cleaning tape 260 is the beginning end of the cleaning tape 260.

[0186] Regarding the structural relationship between the drum (third drum 204a or fourth drum 204b) and the cleaning belt 260, please refer to the above. Figure 3 The structural relationship between the provided reel (first reel 201a or second reel 201b) and magnetic tape 210 will not be described in detail here.

[0187] As an optional implementation, the cleaning tape 260 is detachably connected to the third reel 204a and detachably connected to the fourth reel 204b. The cleaning tape 260 can be replaced by disassembling it. This allows for timely replacement of the cleaning tape 260 in case of failure or damage, eliminating the need to replace the entire tape drive 200 and thus extending its service life.

[0188] The meaning of "cleaning tape 260 failure" includes: the number of cleaning cycles of cleaning tape 260 is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, and / or the cleaning effect of the magnetic head after cleaning does not meet the preset requirements. The implementation method for determining whether cleaning tape 260 has failed can be found below. Figure 17The provided embodiments are not described in detail here.

[0189] Please continue reading. Figure 10 The tape drive assembly 40 in the tape drive device 200 includes a cleaning tape driver 270 and the aforementioned tape driver 220. The structure of the cleaning tape driver 270 is similar to that of the aforementioned tape driver 220, and will not be described in detail here. The cleaning tape driver 270 is used to drive the cleaning tape 260 for winding. During the winding process, the magnetic heads (such as the first magnetic head 230a or the second magnetic head 230b) in the tape drive device 200 press against the cleaning tape 260. The control unit 250 is used to control the speed at which the cleaning tape driver 270 drives the cleaning tape 260, the winding length, and to control the head driver 240 to drive the first magnetic head 230a or the second magnetic head 230b to press against the cleaning tape 260, according to the cleaning request.

[0190] Please see Figure 11 , Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic tape drive device provided in this application embodiment. Figure 5 .

[0191] exist Figure 11 In (1), when the head driver 240 is in the first state, the first head 230a is aligned with the first region (region 1) in the magnetic tape 210, the first head 230a is located above the cleaning tape 260 and does not contact the cleaning tape 260.

[0192] exist Figure 11 In step (2), when the head driver 240 is in the second state, the second head 230b is aligned with the first region (region 1) in the magnetic tape 210, and the first head 230a contacts the second region (region 2) in the cleaning tape 260 and presses against region 2 in the cleaning tape 260. The cleaning tape driver 270 drives the third spool 204a and the fourth spool 204b to rotate, so that the cleaning tape 260 is wound along the length direction of the cleaning tape 260.

[0193] Combination Figure 11 As can be seen from (1) and (2) in the text, when the magnetic head driver 240 is in the second state, the magnetic tape driver 220 drives the first spool 201a and the second spool 201b to rotate, so that the second magnetic head 230b performs data reading and writing on the magnetic tape 210.

[0194] Combination Figure 11The provided information indicates that the cleaning tape 260 and the magnetic tape 210 are independently configured and driven. During the head cleaning process, the head driver 240 controls the head replacement, and the magnetic tape driver 220 drives the magnetic tape 210 to reel in the tape, while the cleaning tape driver 270 drives the cleaning tape 260 to reel in the tape. This allows the head cleaning operation to be performed without interrupting data access services.

[0195] Please return Figure 10 The first magnetic head 230a and the second magnetic head 230b in the tape drive device 200 are connected to the base 203 via a rotating part 241A. During the process of replacing the magnetic head driven by the head driver 240, the rotating part 241A controls the rotation of the first connector and the second connector so that the first magnetic head 230a or the second magnetic head 230b presses against the cleaning tape 260.

[0196] Regarding the positional relationship between the cleaning tape 260 and the magnetic tape 210, the following is a summary... Figure 12A and Figure 12B The installation position of the cleaning belt 260 in the tape drive device 200 is illustrated by way of example.

[0197] As an optional positioning relationship, the magneto device 200 includes a first magnetic head 230a and a second magnetic head 230b. The connection relationship between the first magnetic head 230a and the second magnetic head 230b is as described above. Figure 5 As shown in (a). The cleaning tape 260 is positioned below the magnetic tape 210.

[0198] In the first optional example, such as Figure 12A As shown in Figure (a), the first reel 201a and the third reel 204a are along the aforementioned base 203 ( Figure 12A The magnetic tapes (not shown) are arranged side-by-side on the base 203 along the width direction, with the first reel 201a positioned above the third reel 204a. The second reel 201b and the fourth reel 204b are arranged side-by-side on the base 203 along the width direction, with the second reel 201b positioned above the fourth reel 204b. A magnetic head driver 240 is provided between the magnetic tape wound on the first reel 201a and the second reel 201b and the cleaning tape 260 wound on the third reel 204a and the fourth reel 204b.

[0199] In the second optional example, such as Figure 12AAs shown in Figure (b), the first reel 201a and the third reel 204a are arranged side by side on the base 203 along the length of the base 203, with the first reel 201a to the left of the third reel 204a. The second reel 201b and the fourth reel 204b are arranged side by side on the base 203 along the length of the base 203, with the second reel 201b to the right of the fourth reel 204b. A magnetic head driver 240 is provided between the magnetic tape 210 wound on the first reel 201a and the second reel 201b and the cleaning tape 260 wound on the third reel 204a and the fourth reel 204b.

[0200] The two examples described above are merely exemplary descriptions of the cleaning belt 260 being disposed below the magnetic tape 210, and do not constitute a limitation on the magnetic tape drive device 200 provided in the embodiments of this application. In other embodiments, the cleaning belt 260 may also be disposed above the magnetic tape 210.

[0201] For example, such as Figure 12A As shown in Figure (c), the first reel 201a and the third reel 204a are arranged side-by-side on the base 203 along the width direction of the base 203, with the first reel 201a located below the third reel 204a. The second reel 201b and the fourth reel 204b are also arranged side-by-side on the base 203 along the width direction of the base 203, with the second reel 201b located below the fourth reel 204b. For example, as... Figure 12A As shown in Figure (d), the first reel 201a and the third reel 204a are arranged side-by-side on the base 203 along its length, with the first reel 201a located below the third reel 204a. The second reel 201b and the fourth reel 204b are arranged side-by-side on the base 203 along its length, with the second reel 201b located below the fourth reel 204b. This application does not limit the scope of the application.

[0202] Combination Figure 12A As can be seen from the content, in the implementation of the tape drive 220 driving the tape 210 to reel and the cleaning tape 260 driving the cleaning tape 260 to reel, when the tape 210 and the cleaning tape 260 are reeled in the same direction, the rotation directions of the first drum 201a and the third drum 204a are different, and the rotation directions of the second drum 201b and the third drum 204a are different. For example, the first drum 201a and the second drum 201b rotate clockwise, and the third drum 204a and the fourth drum 204b rotate counterclockwise. Another example is that the first drum 201a and the second drum 201b rotate counterclockwise, and the third drum 204a and the fourth drum 204b rotate clockwise.

[0203] When the magnetic tape 210 and the cleaning tape 260 are wound in opposite directions, the first spool 201a and the third spool 204a rotate in the same direction, and the second spool 201b and the third spool 204a rotate in the same direction.

[0204] The above Figure 12A Taking a magneto device 200 comprising a first magnetic head 230a and a second magnetic head 230b as an example, the positional relationship between the cleaning tape 260 and the magnetic tape 210 is illustrated exemplarily. In other embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown in Figure (b), the magneto device 200 may also include a first magnetic head 230a and two second magnetic heads 230b, and the cleaning belt 260 may be disposed on the side of the magnetic tape 210.

[0205] The following is combined with Figure 12B In the case where the magneto device 200 includes a first magnetic head 230a and two second magnetic heads 230b, the positional relationship between the cleaning tape 260 and the magnetic tape 210 is illustrated by way of example.

[0206] In the first alternative positioning, the cleaning belt 260 is positioned above and to the right of the magnetic tape 210. For example... Figure 12B As shown in Figure (a), the first reel 201a and the second reel 201b are arranged side by side along the length of the magnetic tape 210. The third reel 204a is arranged along the aforementioned base 203. Figure 12B The width direction of the third reel 204a (not shown) is located to the upper right of the first reel 201a, and the axis of the third reel 204a forms a third angle with the axis of the first reel 201a. The fourth reel 204b and the third reel 204a are arranged side by side along the length direction of the cleaning belt 260. The magnetic head driver 240 is located above the magnetic tape 210.

[0207] Among them, Figure 12B In the positional relationship shown, the included angle of the third angle is related to the first angle between the first magnetic head 230a and the second magnetic head 230b. For example, the third angle is the same as the first angle, or the third angle is the first angle / 2. This application does not limit this.

[0208] like Figure 12B As shown in Figure (a), the second magnetic head 230b is aligned with the second region (region 2) in the cleaning tape 260, and the first magnetic head 230a is aligned with the first region (region 1) in the magnetic tape 210.

[0209] In the second alternative positioning, the cleaning belt 260 is positioned to the upper left of the magnetic tape 210. For example... Figure 12B As shown in Figure (b), relative to Figure 12B The positional relationship shown in Figure (a) is in Figure 12BIn Figure (b), the third reel 204a is positioned to the upper left of the second reel 201b along the width direction of the base 203, and the axis of the third reel 204a forms a third angle with the axis of the second reel 201b. The fourth reel 204b and the third reel 204a are arranged side by side along the length direction of the cleaning tape 260. The second magnetic head 230c is aligned with the second region (region 2) in the cleaning tape 260, and the first magnetic head 230a is aligned with the first region (region 1) in the magnetic tape 210.

[0210] In a third alternative positional relationship, the tape drive device 200 includes a first cleaning belt 260 and a second cleaning belt 260. The first cleaning belt 260 is located above the left side of the tape 210, and the second cleaning belt 260 is located above the right side of the tape 210.

[0211] like Figure 12B As shown in Figure (c), relative to Figure 12B The positional relationship shown in Figure (a) is in Figure 12B In Figure (c), the first cleaning belt 260a is wound around the third roll 204a1 and the fourth roll 204b1, and the second cleaning belt 260b is wound around the third roll 204a2 and the fourth roll 204b2. The third roll 204a2 is positioned to the upper left of the second roll 201b along the width direction of the base 203, and the axis of the third roll 204a2 forms a third angle with the axis of the second roll 201b. The third roll 204a1 is positioned to the upper right of the first roll 201a along the width direction of the base 203, and the axis of the third roll 204a1 forms a third angle with the axis of the first roll 201a. The fourth roll 204b1 and the third roll 204a1 are arranged side by side along the length direction of the first cleaning belt 260a. The fourth roll 204b2 and the third roll 204a2 are arranged side by side along the length of the second cleaning belt 260b.

[0212] The second head 230b is aligned with the second region (region 2) in the first cleaning band 260a. The second head 230c is aligned with the third region (region 3) in the second cleaning band 260b.

[0213] based on Figure 12B As shown in the example provided in Figure (c), when the head driver 240 is in the second state, the head driver 240 drives the first head 230a to align with the first cleaning tape 260a or the second cleaning tape 260b, and the cleaning tape driver 270 drives the first cleaning tape 260a or the second cleaning tape 260b to reel in the tape.

[0214] Combination Figure 12BAccording to the provided information, when the magneto device 200 includes one first magnetic head 230a and two second magnetic heads 230b, the cleaning belt 260 is positioned relative to the magnetic tape 210 according to a first angle between the first magnetic head 230a and the second magnetic head 230b, ensuring that either the first magnetic head 230a or the second magnetic head 230b can align with the cleaning belt 260. This ensures that when the head driver 240 is in the second state, the first magnetic head 230a can press against the cleaning belt 260.

[0215] The above Figure 12B (a), (c), and (c) in the figures are exemplary illustrations of the positional relationship between the cleaning tape 260 and the magnetic tape, with the magneto device 200 including a first magnetic head 230a and two second magnetic heads 230b. In other embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown in Figure (c), the magneto device 200 may further include a first magnetic head 230a and three second magnetic heads 230b. In this case, the positional relationship between the cleaning tape 260 and the magnetic tape 210 can be referred to the above. Figure 12A This application will not elaborate further.

[0216] Regarding the 260-degree structure of the cleaning belt, the following is a combination of... Figure 13 The structure of the cleaning belt 260 is illustrated by way of example.

[0217] Please see Figure 13 , Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning belt structure. Figure 13 As shown, the cleaning tape 260 includes a base tape 261, a magnetic layer 262, and a back layer 263.

[0218] like Figure 13 As shown, the baseband 261 includes a first side and a second side along the thickness direction of the baseband 261, with the first side and the second side disposed opposite to each other.

[0219] like Figure 13 As shown, magnetic layer 262 covers the main surface of the first side of baseband 261, and back layer 263 covers the main surface of the second side of baseband 261.

[0220] The backing layer 263 is used to reduce static electricity buildup and prevent dust accumulation.

[0221] The baseband 261 is used to carry the magnetic layer 262 and the pressure and friction of the magnetic head 230 pressing against the cleaning belt 260.

[0222] Particles and other impurities.

[0223] The following two specific examples illustrate the surface roughness of magnetic layer 262.

[0224] In a first alternative example, the roughness of the first surface of the magnetic layer 262 is greater than the roughness of the second surface of the magnetic head (first magnetic head 230a or second magnetic head 230b). The first surface is the surface of the magnetic layer 262 that contacts the magnetic head (first magnetic head 230a or second magnetic head 230b). The second surface is the surface of the magnetic head (first magnetic head 230a or second magnetic head 230b) used for accessing the magnetic tape 210.

[0225] In a second alternative example, the average roughness (Ra) of the centerline of the first surface of the magnetic layer 262 is between 8 and 16 nanometers (nm).

[0226] In one alternative implementation, the magnetic layer 262 comprises magnetic powder and a binder, wherein the magnetic powder is used to adsorb metal particles on the surface of the magnetic head (first magnetic head 230a or second magnetic head 230b). The binder is used to remove impurities such as dust, oil stains, and degraded magnetic particles adhering to the surface of the magnetic head (first magnetic head 230a or second magnetic head 230b).

[0227] It should be noted that, Figure 13 The structure of the cleaning tape 260 provided is illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the tape drive device 200 provided in this application. In other embodiments, the cleaning tape 260 may have other structures. For example, the cleaning tape 260 may include a base tape and a back layer, with the surface of the base tape coated with a cleaning agent coating. This cleaning agent coating is used to remove dust and other impurities from the surface of the magnetic head (first magnetic head 230a or second magnetic head 230b). As another example, the cleaning tape 260 may include a base tape and a back layer, with the surface of the base tape being rough. The magnetic head 230 presses against the base tape, and the base tape removes dust and other impurities from the surface of the magnetic head (first magnetic head 230a or second magnetic head 230b) by rubbing against the surface of the magnetic head (first magnetic head 230a or second magnetic head 230b). This application does not limit this aspect.

[0228] Combination Figure 13 As can be seen from the content, the magnetic head (first magnetic head 230a or second magnetic head 230b) presses against the cleaning belt 260. The cleaning belt 260 uses the rough surface of the magnetic layer to rub the surface of the magnetic head (first magnetic head 230a or second magnetic head 230b), and uses the magnetic powder and adhesive on the surface of the magnetic layer to remove impurities such as dust, failed magnetic particles, and metal particles from the surface of the magnetic head (first magnetic head 230a or second magnetic head 230b).

[0229] Regarding the structure of the aforementioned control component 250, the following is a description... Figure 14 The structure of the control component 250 will be described by way of example. Figure 14As shown, the control unit 250 includes a data acquisition unit 253, an actuator 252, and a chip 251. The chip 251 is connected to both the data acquisition unit 253 and the actuator 252. The actuator 252 is connected to the magnetic tape driver 220, the cleaning tape driver 270, and the magnetic head driver 240.

[0230] The following descriptions provide examples of the chip 251, the data acquisition unit 253, and the actuator 252 in the control unit 250.

[0231] The acquisition unit 253 can be mounted on the magnetic tape 210. When the first magnetic head 230a is aligned with the magnetic tape 210, the acquisition unit 253 acquires the characteristic values ​​of the first magnetic head 230a. When the second magnetic head 230b is aligned with the magnetic tape, the acquisition unit 253 acquires the characteristic values ​​of the second magnetic head 230b. These characteristic values ​​include one or more of the following: head read / write error rate, uncorrectable error information, and head calibration capability.

[0232] Actuator 252 is used to control the speed and direction of rotation of the motor in tape drive 220, the speed and direction of rotation of the motor in cleaning tape drive 270, and the rotation direction and angle of rotation of the rotating part 241A in head drive 240.

[0233] For example, taking the control of the tape drive 220 as an example, the actuator 252 can generate a first electrical pulse signal and send the first electrical pulse signal to the tape drive 220. The first electrical pulse signal is used to indicate the speed, direction, or movement of the motor in the tape drive 220. As another example, the actuator 252 can send a first drive command to the tape drive 220, and the tape drive 220, in response to the first drive command, generates a corresponding first electrical pulse signal. The first drive command is used to instruct the tape drive 220 to drive the tape 210 to wind along the length of the tape 210.

[0234] For example, taking the control of the cleaning tape driver 270 as an example, similar to the control of the magnetic tape driver 220, the actuator 252 can also send a second electrical pulse signal or a second drive command to the cleaning tape driver 270. The second electrical pulse signal is used to indicate the speed, direction of rotation, or movement direction of the motor in the cleaning tape driver 270. The second drive command is used to instruct the cleaning tape driver 270 to drive the cleaning tape 260 to wind along the length of the cleaning tape 260.

[0235] For example, taking the control of the magnetic head driver 240 as an example, similar to the control of the magnetic tape driver 220, the actuator 252 can also send a third pulse signal or a third drive command to the magnetic head driver 240. The third pulse signal is used to indicate the rotation direction and rotation angle of the rotating part 241A in the magnetic head driver 240. The third drive command is used to instruct the magnetic head driver 240 to drive the rotating part 241A to rotate circumferentially.

[0236] Chip 251 can be a CPU, GPU, or NPU, and this application does not limit it to any particular type. Chip 251 is used to receive and respond to requests sent by external devices of tape drive device 200, and to issue corresponding instructions to collector 253 and / or actuator 252. Alternatively, chip 251 is used to generate requests and issue corresponding instructions to collector 253 and / or actuator 252.

[0237] The following two specific examples illustrate the interaction process between chip 251, data acquisition unit 253 and actuator 252 in control unit 250.

[0238] In the first example, chip 251 receives a data access request (such as a read request or write request) from an external device of tape drive device 200. Upon receiving and responding to the data access request, chip 251 issues a tape drive command and a drive command for the first magnetic head 230a to actuator 252. In response to the tape drive command, actuator 252 sends a first electrical pulse signal or a first drive command to tape drive 220. In response to the drive command for the first magnetic head 230a, actuator 252 sends a third pulse or a third drive command to head drive 240.

[0239] In the second example, the first magnetic head 230a is aligned with a first region in the magnetic tape 210. Chip 251 generates a feature value acquisition request. Chip 251 sends the first acquisition request to collector 253. Collector 253 receives and responds to the first acquisition request, acquires the feature values ​​of the first magnetic head 230a on the magnetic tape 210, and transmits the feature values ​​to chip 251. Chip 251 generates a cleaning request based on the feature values ​​of the first magnetic head 230a. Chip 251 sends a first instruction to actuator 252. Actuator 252 responds to the first instruction, controlling the head driver 240 to switch from a first state to a second state.

[0240] The chip sends a second instruction to the actuator 252. In response to the second instruction, the actuator 252 sends a second pulse or a second drive instruction to the cleaning belt driver 270.

[0241] The characteristic values ​​of chip 251 based on the first magnetic head 230a can be referred to as follows: Figure 17 The provided embodiment generates a cleaning request and sends a first instruction to the actuator 252, which will not be described in detail here.

[0242] It should be noted that the two examples above are merely illustrations of different interaction flows between chip 251, collector 253, and actuator 252. In other embodiments, there may be other interaction flows between chip 251, collector 253, and actuator 252. For example, when the first magnetic head 230a accesses the magnetic tape 210, chip 251 can receive and respond to a feature value acquisition request sent by an external device. Furthermore, after receiving the feature value of the first magnetic head 230a on the magnetic tape returned by collector 253, chip 251 can send the feature value of the first magnetic head 230a to the external device and receive a cleaning request sent by the external device. This application does not limit this.

[0243] The above Figure 14 Taking the acquisition unit 250 as an example, the structure of the control unit 250 and the interaction process between the modules in the control unit 250 are explained. In some other embodiments, the detector 280 in the tape drive device 200 may also be disposed outside the control unit 250, such as... Figure 15 As shown, Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the structure of a magnetic tape drive device provided in this application embodiment. Figure 6 Compared to Figure 10 Compared to the tape drive device 200 shown, in Figure 15 The tape drive device 200 shown also includes a detector 280. The detector 280 is connected to the control unit 250.

[0244] The detector 280 has similar functions to the collector 253 described above, which will not be repeated here. Similarly, in Figure 15 In the tape drive device 200 shown, the control unit 250 has the functions implemented by the chip 251 and actuator 252, which will not be described in detail here.

[0245] exist Figure 15 In the tape drive device 200 shown, the interaction process between the control unit 250 and the detector 280 can refer to the interaction process between the chip 251, the collector 253 and the actuator 252 described above. This application will not elaborate further on this.

[0246] As an optional implementation, the aforementioned tape drive device 200 can be an integrated tape drive. For example... Figure 16 As shown, the integrated tape drive includes: tape 210, first magnetic head 230a, second magnetic head 230b, head driver 240, and first reel 201a. Figure 16 (Not shown in the image), second drum 201b, roller 202, base 203, control unit 250, belt drive assembly 40, cleaning belt 260, third drum 204a ( Figure 16(Not shown in the image) and a fourth reel 204b are housed within housing 290. Housing 290 includes a communication interface ( Figure 16 (Not shown in the image), the tape drive device 200 is connected to an external device via a communication interface.

[0247] In the first alternative configuration, the housing 290 is non-removable, preventing the user from manually cleaning the magnetic powder that has fallen into the integrated tape drive. When the tape drive 220 and tape 210 provided in this embodiment are applied to the integrated tape drive, their effect in preventing magnetic powder from falling off is more significant, effectively improving the read / write signal capability of the magnetic heads (first head 230a or second head 230b) in the integrated tape drive, thereby increasing the service life of the integrated tape drive.

[0248] In the second alternative configuration, the housing 290 is removable. When the tape drive 220 and tape 210 provided in this embodiment are applied to the integrated tape drive, the user can replace the tape 210 and cleaning tape 260 in the tape drive device 200, thereby increasing the service life of the integrated tape drive.

[0249] In an optional example, such as Figure 16 As shown, the inner surface of the housing 290 and the base 203 form a cavity, containing the magnetic tape 210, the first magnetic head 230a, the second magnetic head 230b, the head driver 240, and the first reel 201a. Figure 16 (Not shown in the image), second drum 201b, roller 202, base 203, control unit 250, belt drive assembly 40, cleaning belt 260, third drum 204a ( Figure 16 (not shown in the image) and the fourth reel 204b will be placed in the cavity.

[0250] Below Figures 1 to 16 Based on this, the control method for the magnetic head provided in the embodiments of this application will be described by way of example. Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating a magnetic head control method provided in an embodiment of this application. The magnetic head control method is applied to a magnetic tape drive device 200, as described above.

[0251] The magnetic head control method provided in this application embodiment can be executed by the control unit 250 in the tape drive device 200, or by other computing devices communicating with the tape drive device 200. For example, the other computing device refers to the controller in the storage system (such as a tape system) to which the tape drive device 200 belongs. This controller can be, for example, the aforementioned control unit 1225, the controller included in the engine 121, or...

[0252] This application embodiment illustrates an example where the control method for the magnetic head is executed by the control unit 250. Please refer to... Figure 17The control method for the magnetic head includes steps S111 to S115.

[0253] S111, Control unit 250 receives a data access request.

[0254] The data access request includes a first address. This first address indicates the storage address on tape 210.

[0255] For example, a data access request can also be called an IO request, or an access request.

[0256] In an alternative implementation, the data access request can be any IO request in the IO data stream. The IO data stream, also known as an IO flow, includes multiple IO requests, each of which includes a first address.

[0257] The following three specific examples illustrate data access requests.

[0258] In the first alternative example, the data access request originates from an I / O data stream sent by the same data access device. This data access device can refer to a host, user equipment, server, or other type of device.

[0259] In the second alternative example, the data access request originates from an IO data stream sent by the same application.

[0260] For example, the application can be deployed on a distributed system, which includes multiple devices, each with a complete application deployed on it, or each device with a portion of the application's code deployed on it. Examples of such applications include, but are not limited to, artificial intelligence applications and distributed applications. For instance, a distributed application refers to an application distributed across different computers, working together over a network to complete a task.

[0261] In the third optional example, the data access request originates from an IO stream belonging to the same task. This task can be a read task or other data access task, etc. Specifically, this task can be a data access task issued by a single application, or it can be data access tasks from multiple applications managed by a single data access interface; this application does not limit this.

[0262] The three possible examples above are merely optional methods for data access requests provided in the embodiments of this application. Multiple data access requests belonging to the same IO stream indicate data flowing from one storage location to another. The direction of the IO stream can be input (reading data from the target storage device) or output (writing data to the target storage device). In some optional cases, the IO stream may also be called a request sequence, a data request stream, or other names, etc., which are not limited in this application.

[0263] S112, in response to a data access request, the control unit 250 controls the head driver 240 to drive the first head 230a to access the first region corresponding to the first address in the magnetic tape 210.

[0264] In an alternative implementation, the control unit 250 can control the tape drive assembly 40 to control the first magnetic head 230a to align with the magnetic tape 210.

[0265] For example, the control unit 250 determines the tape scheduling algorithm based on the initial address of the first magnetic head 230a aligned with the tape 210 and the first address corresponding to the data access request. The control unit 250 sends a second control command to the tape drive 220 in the tape drive assembly 40 according to the tape scheduling algorithm. The tape drive 220 responds to the second control command and controls the tape 210 to wind along its length, so that the first magnetic head 230a is aligned with the first region corresponding to the first address in the tape 210.

[0266] The initial address for alignment of the first magnetic head 230a in the magnetic tape 210 is the address corresponding to the tape region aligned with the first magnetic head 230a, which is the current alignment position of the first magnetic head 230a in the magnetic tape 210. For example, the head driver 240 controls the current tape region aligned with the first magnetic head 230a, which is the initial address of the head. In some optional cases, this initial address may also be referred to as the current alignment address, starting address, or initial address of the first magnetic head 230a in the magnetic tape 210, etc., and this application does not limit this.

[0267] It is worth noting that, in some alternative methods, the initial address of the first magnetic head 230a may also refer to the fixed magnetic tape area after the first magnetic head 230a performs one or more accesses to the magnetic tape 210, and this fixed magnetic tape area is the initial address of the first magnetic head 230a.

[0268] The tape scheduling algorithm is used to indicate the reel direction and reel speed of tape 210. The tape scheduling algorithm is also used to indicate the movement direction and movement speed of tape 210.

[0269] In an optional implementation, the control unit 250 can generate multiple candidate scheduling algorithms based on the distance between the first address and the initial address. The control unit 250 predicts the prediction delay of each candidate scheduling algorithm and selects target candidate scheduling algorithms from subsequent scheduling algorithms whose prediction delay is less than a delay threshold. The control unit 250 determines the target candidate scheduling algorithm with the smallest prediction delay among the target candidate scheduling algorithms as the tape scheduling algorithm.

[0270] The delay threshold can be a user-defined value. For example, the delay threshold can be 1 second, 2 seconds, 5 seconds, 100 seconds, or other values. Alternatively, the delay threshold can be a pre-configured value in the control unit 250, which can be 1 second, 2 seconds, 5 seconds, 100 seconds, or other values.

[0271] The following example illustrates how the control unit 250 can control the head driver 240 to control the first head 230a to align with the magnetic tape 210.

[0272] The control unit 250 sends a first control command to the head driver 240. In response to the first control command, the head driver 240 is in a first state, such that the first head 230a is aligned with the magnetic tape 210.

[0273] In the first alternative implementation, the head driver 240 is as described above. Figure 4 As shown. The control unit 250 controls the rotating part 241A to drive the first connector to rotate, so that the first magnetic head 230a is aligned with the magnetic tape 210.

[0274] In the second alternative implementation, the head driver 240 is as described above. Figure 7 As shown. The control unit 250 drives the telescopic part 241B to control the first slide bar 242B to slide along the first direction in the telescopic part 241B, so that the first magnetic head 230a is aligned with the magnetic tape 210.

[0275] It should be noted that the two optional implementation methods described above are merely different ways in which the control unit 250 controls the head driver 240 to control the first magnetic head 230a to align with the magnetic tape. In other embodiments, there may be other implementation methods. For example, after responding to a data access request, the control unit 250 determines whether the first magnetic head 230a is aligned with the magnetic tape 210. If the first magnetic head 230a is aligned with the magnetic tape 210, the control unit 250 controls the tape drive assembly 40 to drive the magnetic tape 210 to reel in. If the first magnetic head 230a is not aligned with the magnetic tape 210, the control unit 250 controls the head driver 240 to control the first magnetic head 230a to align with the magnetic tape 210 and controls the tape drive assembly 40 to drive the magnetic tape 210 to reel in. This application does not limit this.

[0276] S113, the control unit 250 acquires the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a.

[0277] As an optional implementation, the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a can be the average, maximum, or minimum characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a over a period of time. For example, the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a can be one or more of the following: average bit error rate, average calibration capability, and average uncorrectable error information over a period of time. As another example, the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a can be one or more of the following: maximum bit error rate, maximum calibration capability, and maximum uncorrectable error information over a period of time. Yet another example is that the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a can be one or more of the following: minimum bit error rate, minimum calibration capability, and minimum uncorrectable error information over a period of time.

[0278] The time period can refer to 1 second, 100 seconds, 1 minute, 10 minutes, etc., and this application does not limit it.

[0279] In a first alternative implementation, the control unit 250 integrates a data acquisition unit 253. The control unit 250 acquires the characteristic values ​​of the first magnetic head 230a by controlling the data acquisition unit 253.

[0280] In a second alternative implementation, the control unit 250 is connected to the detector 280. The control unit 250 requests the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a from the detector 280.

[0281] The two implementation methods described above are merely different directions for the control component 250 to obtain the feature value of the first magnetic head 230a. In other embodiments, the control component 250 may also use other implementation methods to obtain the feature value. For example, the control component 250 reads the recorded feature value of the first magnetic head 230a from the operating system log of the tape drive device 200. This application does not limit this.

[0282] S114, the control unit 250 determines whether the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a meets the cleaning conditions.

[0283] The head cleaning condition is used to indicate the condition of the head's characteristic values ​​when cleaning is required.

[0284] As an optional implementation, the head cleaning conditions include one or more of the following: a head read / write error rate threshold, a reference UNC, and a head calibration capability threshold. The characteristic values ​​include the head read / write error rate, uncorrectable error information, and the head calibration capability. If one or more of the following conditions are met, the control unit 250 determines that the characteristic value meets the head cleaning conditions: the head read / write error rate is greater than or equal to the head read / write error rate threshold, the uncorrectable error information is greater than or equal to the reference UNC, and the head calibration capability is less than the head calibration capability threshold. If the head read / write error rate is less than the head read / write error rate threshold, the uncorrectable error information is less than the reference UNC, and the head calibration capability is greater than or equal to the head calibration capability threshold, the control unit 250 determines that the characteristic value does not meet the head cleaning conditions.

[0285] In other embodiments, the head cleaning condition may also refer to a head cleanliness threshold. The following explanation uses the head cleanliness threshold as an example to illustrate how the control unit 250 determines whether the characteristic value of the first head 230a meets the cleaning condition.

[0286] Taking features including head read / write error rate, uncorrectable error messages, and head calibration capability as examples, the control unit 250 determines the head cleanliness level of the first head 230a based on these features. If the head cleanliness level of the first head 230a is less than or equal to the head cleanliness level threshold specified by the head cleaning conditions, the control unit 250 determines that the features meet the head cleaning conditions. If the head cleanliness level of the first head 230a is greater than the head cleanliness level threshold specified by the head cleaning conditions, the control unit 250 determines that the features do not meet the head cleaning conditions.

[0287] The control component 250 determines the cleanliness level of the first magnetic head 230a based on feature values ​​in several ways, including the following:

[0288] In the first implementation, the control unit 250 obtains the head cleanliness of the first magnetic head 230a by querying the mapping relationship between the feature value and the head cleanliness based on the feature value query.

[0289] In the second implementation, the control unit 250 obtains the head cleaning coefficient based on the head read / write error rate, uncorrectable error information, and the head calibration capability. It then queries the correspondence between the head cleaning coefficient and the head cleaning degree to obtain the head cleaning degree of the first head 230a.

[0290] The head cleaning coefficient is used to indicate the degree of head cleanliness. In one optional example, the average or weighted average of the head read / write error rate, uncorrectable error messages, and the head's calibration capability can be used as the head cleaning coefficient. In another optional example, the head read / write error rate, uncorrectable error messages, and the head's calibration capability can be input into a cleaning coefficient prediction model to obtain the head cleaning system. The cleaning coefficient prediction model can be a mathematical model, a mapping model, etc. This application does not limit its scope.

[0291] The two implementation methods described above are merely different ways of determining the cleanliness level of the first magnetic head 230a based on feature values. In other examples, the control unit 250 can also use other implementation methods to determine the cleanliness level of the first magnetic head 230a. For example, the control unit 250 sends the feature values ​​to an external device, which calculates the cleanliness level of the first magnetic head 230a and returns the cleanliness level of the first magnetic head 230a to the control unit 250. This application does not limit this approach.

[0292] In one alternative implementation, if the feature value does not meet the head cleaning conditions, the control unit 250 continues to acquire new feature values ​​of the first magnetic head 230a on the magnetic tape. If the feature value meets the head cleaning conditions, the control unit 250 executes the following step S115.

[0293] S115, if the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a meets the cleaning condition, the control unit 250 controls the magnetic head driver 240 to drive the second magnetic head 230b to access the first region.

[0294] In one alternative implementation, such as Figure 17 As shown, the control unit 250 can also control the magnetic head driver 240 to drive the first magnetic head 230a to press against the cleaning belt 260.

[0295] In one alternative implementation, if the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a meets the cleaning conditions, the control unit 250 sends a third control command to the head driver 240. In response to the third control command, the head driver 240 switches from a first state to a second state, causing the first magnetic head 230a to press against the cleaning belt 260.

[0296] As an optional implementation method, such as Figure 17 As shown, after the control unit 250 determines that the first magnetic head 230a is pressing against the cleaning belt 260, the control unit 250 can also control the belt drive assembly 40 to drive the cleaning belt 260 to wind up, so that the cleaning belt 260 cleans the first magnetic head 230a.

[0297] For example, the control unit 250 sends a fourth control command to the cleaning belt driver 270 in the belt drive assembly 40. In response to the fourth control command, the cleaning belt driver 270 drives the third drum 204a and the fourth drum 204b to rotate, causing the cleaning belt 260 to be wound along its length, and cleaning the first magnetic head 230a that is pressing against the cleaning belt 260.

[0298] Furthermore, in other embodiments, after determining that the first magnetic head 230a is pressing against the cleaning tape 260, and while the tape drive 200 is in an idle state, the control unit 250 sends a fourth control command to the cleaning tape driver 270 in the tape drive assembly 40. In response to the fourth control command, the cleaning tape driver 270 drives the third drum 204a and the fourth drum 204b to rotate, causing the cleaning tape 260 to wind along its length, thus cleaning the first magnetic head 230a 210a pressing against the cleaning tape 260.

[0299] Optionally, the tape drive device 200 being in an idle state can mean that the tape drive device 200 has not received a data access request within a preset time period. The preset time period can be 5 minutes, 10 minutes, or 20 minutes, and this application does not limit this.

[0300] It is worth noting that after the control unit 250 determines that the first magnetic head 230a is pressing against the cleaning tape 260, the control unit 250 can continue to control the tape drive 220 to drive the tape 210 to reel, so that the second magnetic head 230b can read and write data on the tape 210.

[0301] The following describes how the control unit 250 drives the magnetic head driver 240.

[0302] In the first alternative implementation, the head driver 240 is as described above. Figure 4 As shown. The control unit 250 controls the rotating part 241A to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise by a first angle along the circumference of the rotating part 241A, so that the second magnetic head 230b connected to the second connector is aligned with the first region in the magnetic tape, and the first magnetic head 230a connected to the first connector presses against the cleaning tape 260.

[0303] In the second alternative implementation, the head driver 240 is as described above. Figure 7 As shown. The control unit 250 controls the second slide bar 243B to slide along the first direction on the telescopic part 241B, and controls the first slide bar 242B to slide along the second direction on the telescopic part 241B, so that the second magnetic head 230b connected to the second slide bar 243B is aligned with the first region in the magnetic tape 210, and the first magnetic head 230a connected to the first slide bar 242B presses against the cleaning tape 260.

[0304] The following describes how the cleaning belt 260 cleans the first magnetic head 230a.

[0305] In the first implementation, the first magnetic head 230a presses against the cleaning belt 260, and the control unit 250 controls the cleaning belt driver 270 to drive the cleaning belt 260 to wind a first distance along the length direction of the cleaning belt 260.

[0306] The first distance can be set by the user, or it can be pre-configured by the control unit 250. Alternatively, the first distance can be sent by an external setting; this application does not limit this.

[0307] In the second implementation, the first magnetic head 230a presses against the cleaning belt 260, and the control unit 250 controls the cleaning belt driver 270 to drive the cleaning belt 260 to alternately rewind in the third direction and the fourth direction.

[0308] For example, control unit 250 controls tape driver 220 to drive first reel 201a to rewind a second distance in a first direction, and then control unit 250 controls tape driver 220 to drive second reel 201b to rewind a second distance in a second direction, until the number of times tape 210 rewinds in the first direction is greater than or equal to the first count threshold, at which point rewinding stops. Here, first reel 201a is a reel with the beginning end of tape 210 wound around it, and second reel 201b is a reel with the end end of tape 210 wound around it.

[0309] The second distance is less than or equal to the first distance.

[0310] In the third implementation, the magnetic head 230 presses against the cleaning belt 260, and the control unit 250 controls the magnetic tape driver 220 to drive the magnetic tape 210 to move a third distance along the width direction of the magnetic tape 210.

[0311] Among them, the third distance is less than or equal to the first distance.

[0312] In the fourth implementation, the magnetic head 230 presses against the cleaning belt 260, and the control unit 250 controls the tape driver 220 to drive the tape 210 to move back and forth along the width direction of the tape 210 for the second time.

[0313] The threshold for the first reciprocating movement of the magnetic tape 210 along its width direction can be defined as follows: the magnetic tape 210 moves alternately to the third and fourth directions along its width direction by a fourth distance until the number of times the magnetic tape 210 moves to the third direction along its width direction is greater than or equal to the threshold for the second reciprocating movement, at which point the movement stops.

[0314] Among them, the second number threshold is less than or equal to the first number threshold, and the fourth distance is less than or equal to the first distance.

[0315] It should be noted that the above four implementation methods are only different ways of cleaning the cleaning belt 260 and cleaning the magnetic head 230. In practical applications, the cleaning belt 260 and cleaning the magnetic head 230 can also be implemented in other ways, and this application does not limit them.

[0316] In one alternative implementation, after the control unit 250 determines that the first magnetic head 230a has finished cleaning, the control unit 250 controls the cleaning belt driver 270 to stop the cleaning belt 260 from rewinding.

[0317] In some alternative implementations, when the first magnetic head 230a accesses the magnetic tape after cleaning, the control unit 250 acquires a third characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a on the magnetic tape 210 after cleaning.

[0318] In one alternative implementation, the control unit 250 determines whether the first magnetic head 230a has finished cleaning in several ways, for example:

[0319] In the first implementation, if the control unit 250 detects that the distance of the cleaning belt 260 winding along the length direction of the cleaning belt 260 is greater than or equal to the first distance, it determines that the cleaning of the first magnetic head 230a is complete.

[0320] In the second implementation, if the control unit 250 detects that the cleaning belt 260 has moved a distance greater than or equal to a third distance along the width direction of the cleaning belt 260, it determines that the cleaning of the first magnetic head 230a is complete.

[0321] In the third implementation, if the control unit 250 detects that the number of times the cleaning belt driver 270 drives the cleaning belt 260 to rewind in a third direction is greater than or equal to the first number threshold, it determines that the cleaning of the first magnetic head 230a is complete.

[0322] In the fourth implementation, if the control unit 250 detects that the cleaning belt 260 driven by the cleaning belt driver 270 has moved back and forth along the width of the cleaning belt 260 a number of times greater than or equal to the second threshold number, it determines that the cleaning of the first magnetic head 230a is complete.

[0323] The four implementation methods described above are merely different ways for the control component 250 to detect whether the magnetic head 230 has completed cleaning. In other embodiments, the control component 250 may also use other implementation methods to detect whether the magnetic head 230 has completed cleaning. For example, the control component 250 may obtain the duration for which the magnetic head 230 presses against the cleaning belt 260, and determine that the magnetic head 230 has completed cleaning if the duration is greater than or equal to a duration threshold. As another example, the control component 250 may obtain the duration for which the magnetic head 230 presses against the cleaning belt 260 and the distance the cleaning belt 260 has moved, and determine that the magnetic head 230 has completed cleaning if the duration is greater than or equal to a duration threshold and the distance moved is greater than or equal to a first distance or a third distance. This application does not limit this to any particular method.

[0324] As an optional implementation, after the control unit 250 determines that the first magnetic head 230a has finished cleaning, the control unit 250 sends a fifth control command to the head driver 240. In response to the fifth control command, the head driver 240 switches from the second state to the first state, so that the cleaned first magnetic head 230a accesses the magnetic tape 210.

[0325] Furthermore, in some implementations, after the first magnetic head 230a has finished cleaning, the head driver 240 remains in the second state. The control unit 250 acquires the second characteristic value of the second magnetic head 230b on the magnetic tape, and performs the above-described S114 based on the second characteristic value to determine whether the second characteristic meets the cleaning conditions. If the second characteristic value meets the cleaning conditions, the control unit 250 controls the head driver 240 to align the new second magnetic head 230b with the magnetic tape 210, or controls the head driver 240 to align the cleaned first magnetic head 230a with the magnetic tape 210.

[0326] For example, the tape drive device 200 is provided with two or more second magnetic heads 230b. When the second characteristic value meets the cleaning condition, the control unit 250 controls the magnetic head driver 240 so that the new second magnetic head 230b is aligned with the tape 210.

[0327] For example, the tape drive device 200 is provided with a second magnetic head 230b. When the second characteristic value meets the cleaning conditions, the control unit 250 controls the magnetic head driver 240 to align the cleaned first magnetic head 230a with the tape 210.

[0328] As an optional implementation, if the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a meets the cleaning condition, the control unit 250 can also send a sixth control command to the tape drive 220. In response to the sixth control command, the tape drive 220 drives the tape 210 to stop winding. If the control unit 250 determines that the rotating part 241A or the telescopic part 241B has switched to the second state, the control unit 250 sends a seventh control command to the tape drive 220. In response to the seventh control command, the tape drive 220 drives the tape 210 to wind along its length.

[0329] In one alternative implementation, the cleaning tape 260 in the tape drive device 200 is removable. When the control unit 250 detects that the cleaning tape 260 has failed, the control unit 250 outputs a prompt message so that the user can replace the cleaning tape 260 based on the prompt message.

[0330] The following two specific examples illustrate how the control component 250 detects whether the cleaning belt 260 is malfunctioning.

[0331] In a first optional example, the control unit 250 acquires the number of cleaning cycles of the cleaning belt 260. If the number of cleaning cycles of the cleaning belt 260 meets the predicted cleaning cycle threshold, the control unit 250 determines that the cleaning belt 260 has failed. If the number of cleaning cycles of the cleaning belt 260 does not meet the predicted cleaning cycle threshold, the control unit 250 determines that the cleaning belt 260 is functioning normally.

[0332] The cleaning count indicates the number of times the cleaning belt 260 has cleaned the magnetic head. Taking the cleaning of the first magnetic head 230a as an example, when the control unit 250 determines that the cleaning belt 260 has completed cleaning the first magnetic head 230a, the cleaning count of the cleaning belt 260 is incremented by 1 to obtain the current cleaning count. If the current cleaning count meets the predicted cleaning count threshold, the control unit 250 determines that the cleaning belt 260 has failed.

[0333] The meaning of "the number of cleaning cycles meets the predicted number of cleaning cycles threshold" can be: the number of cleaning cycles is greater than or equal to the predicted number of cleaning cycles threshold.

[0334] In the second alternative example, after the first magnetic head 230a is cleaned, the control unit 250 controls the magnetic head driver 240 to be in a first state, so that the cleaned first magnetic head 230a is aligned with the magnetic tape 210. The control unit 250 obtains a third characteristic value of the cleaned first magnetic head 230a on the magnetic tape 210. If the third characteristic value meets the cleaning conditions, the control unit 250 determines that the cleaning tape 260 has failed. If the third characteristic value does not meet the cleaning conditions, the control unit 250 determines that the cleaning tape 260 is normal.

[0335] The two examples described above are merely different implementations of the control component 250 detecting whether the cleaning belt 260 is malfunctioning. In other embodiments, the control component 250 may also employ other implementations to detect whether the cleaning belt 260 is malfunctioning. This application does not limit this to any particular implementation.

[0336] based on Figure 17 In the provided embodiment, during the data access cleaning process of the tape drive 200, the first magnetic head 230a accesses the first region corresponding to the first address in the magnetic tape 210. When the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a meets the cleaning conditions, the head driver 240 controls the second magnetic head 230b to align with the first region of the magnetic tape 210 and controls the first magnetic head 230a to press against the cleaning tape 260. The tape drive assembly 40 in the tape drive 200 drives the cleaning tape 260 to rewind, cleaning the first magnetic head 230a. Thus, during the head cleaning process, the tape drive 200 can still provide data access functionality without interrupting data access services. Furthermore, by providing redundant magnetic heads, the lifespan of the magnetic heads in the magneto-optical disk can be increased, thereby extending the lifespan of the tape drive 200.

[0337] The above Figure 17 The control method for the magnetic head provided in this application is illustrated by taking the cleaning condition determination implemented by the control unit 250 as an example. In other embodiments, other computing devices can also determine the cleaning conditions, and when the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a meets the cleaning conditions, they send an instruction to the control unit 250, and the control unit 250 executes the corresponding instruction to perform magnetic head cleaning.

[0338] The following example, using other computing devices as controllers in a storage system, illustrates the implementation of the read / write head control method. Compared to... Figure 17 The provided head control method, when the controller determines the cleaning conditions, involves the control unit 250 acquiring the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a and sending it to the controller. The controller then determines whether the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a meets the cleaning conditions. If the characteristic value of the first magnetic head 230a meets the cleaning conditions, the controller sends a head replacement command and a head cleaning command to the control unit 250. In response to the head replacement and cleaning commands, the control unit 250 controls the tape drive assembly 40 to drive the cleaning tape 260 for winding, and the head driver 240 controls the second magnetic head 230b to access the first area and controls the first magnetic head 230a to press against the cleaning tape 260.

[0339] It is understood that, in order to achieve the functions in the above embodiments, the tape drive device, control unit, or controller includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to perform each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the units and method steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed in this application, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application scenario and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0340] The above text combines Figure 17 The present application describes in detail the control method of the magnetic head provided according to the embodiments of the present application. The following is in conjunction with Figure 18 The control component that performs the above-described control method for the magnetic head is described by way of example. In some optional embodiments, the control component that performs the above-described control method for the magnetic head may be referred to as a control component, control unit, controller, processor, or other names. This application does not limit this.

[0341] In some embodiments, the control component that performs the above-described head control method may be the control component 250 or the control unit 1225, etc. In other embodiments, the control component that performs the above-described head control method may also be other devices with head control functions. This application does not limit this. For example, when other processing devices in the tape drive device 200 also have head control functions, the control component that performs the above-described head control method may refer to the aforementioned drive frame or other processing devices in the tape drive device 200.

[0342] For example, taking control unit 250 as an example of the control unit that performs the above-described magnetic head control method, the structure of the control unit that performs the above-described magnetic head control method will be described. This control unit that performs the above-described magnetic head control method may have the same characteristics as described above. Figure 14 The control components 250 shown have different structures, such as Figure 18 As shown, Figure 18The schematic diagram of the control component provided in this application shows that the control component 1400 includes a memory 1410 and at least one processor 1420. The processor 1420 can implement the magnetic head control method provided in the above embodiments, and the memory 1410 is used to store the software instructions corresponding to the magnetic head control method. As an optional implementation, in hardware implementation, the control component 1400 can refer to a chip or chip system that encapsulates one or more processors 1420. For example, when the control component 1400 is used to implement the method steps in the above embodiments, the processor 1420 included in the control component 1400 executes the steps of the controller and its possible sub-steps in the above method. In an optional case, the control component 1400 may also include a communication interface 1430, which can be used to send and receive data. For example, the communication interface 1430 is used to receive IO requests or send IO responses; the communication interface 1430 can be implemented through the interface circuit included in the control component 1400. Therefore, in some examples, the communication interface 1430 can also be referred to as the transceiver of the controller. In the embodiments of this application, the communication interface 1430, processor 1420, and memory 1410 can be connected via a bus 1440. The bus 1440 can be divided into an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, etc. The bus 1440 can be a PCIe bus, or an extended industry standard architecture (EISA) bus, a unified bus (Ubus or UB), a compute express link (CXL), a cache coherent interconnect for accelerators (CCIX), or other types of buses, etc.

[0343] This application also provides a storage system. The storage system includes a communication interface, a storage controller, and the tape drive device 200 provided in any of the foregoing embodiments. The tape drive device 200 is used to store data, the communication interface is used to receive data access requests (such as I / O requests), and the controller is used to manage the target tape drive device 200 in the storage system according to data access requests (such as I / O read requests or I / O write requests). The storage system is, for example, a tape library, a tape system, or a computer / server that includes the tape drive device 200 as a persistent storage medium.

[0344] The storage controller includes one or more processors, which can be a very large-scale integrated circuit. The processor contains an operating system and other software programs, enabling it to access tape drives and various PCIe devices. The processor includes one or more processor cores. These cores can be, for example, CPUs or other ASICs. The processor can also be other general-purpose processors, DSPs, ASICs, FPGAs, or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. In practical applications, the storage system may also include multiple controllers.

[0345] Optionally, the storage system may also include, but is not limited to, other storage media: dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), etc., for caching data from the tape drive device 200 for processor processing. Additionally, other storage media may be read-only memory (ROM). For example, read-only memory may be programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), etc. This embodiment does not limit the number or type of other storage media. Furthermore, other storage media can be configured to have power-saving functionality. Power-saving functionality means that when the system experiences a power outage and is then powered on again, the data stored in the memory will not be lost. Storage media with power-saving functionality are called non-volatile memory.

[0346] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. A computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are performed entirely or partially. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, a network device, a user equipment, or other programmable device. The computer program or instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program or instructions can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium, such as a floppy disk, hard disk, or magnetic tape; it can also be an optical medium, such as a digital video disc (DVD); or it can be a semiconductor medium, such as a solid-state drive (SSD).

[0347] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Various equivalent modifications or substitutions can be conceived within the technical scope disclosed in this application, and these modifications or substitutions should all be covered within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A magnetic tape drive device, characterized in that, include: Base; magnetic tape; Multiple magnetic heads are disposed on the base, the multiple magnetic heads including a first magnetic head and a second magnetic head; A head driver for driving the first head to access the magnetic tape, or driving the second head to access the magnetic tape.

2. The magnetic tape drive device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the head driver is in a first state, the head driver drives the first head to access the magnetic tape; when the head driver is in a second state, the head driver drives the second head to access the magnetic tape.

3. The magnetic tape drive device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The head driver includes: A rotating part is provided on the base; The first connector is connected to the rotating part and the first magnetic head respectively; The second connector is connected to the rotating part and the second magnetic head respectively; the first connector and the second connector intersect along the circumferential direction of the rotating part; When the magnetic head driver is in the first state, the rotating part drives the first connector to align the first magnetic head with the magnetic tape; When the magnetic head driver is in the second state, the rotating part rotates circumferentially by a first angle, so that the second magnetic head connected to the second connector aligns with the magnetic tape.

4. The magnetic tape drive device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The head driver includes: A telescopic part is provided on the base; The first slide rod is slidably connected to the telescopic part, and the first slide rod is connected to the first magnetic head; The second slide rod is slidably connected to the telescopic part, and the second slide rod is connected to the second magnetic head; the first slide rod and the second slide rod are arranged side by side along the axial direction of the telescopic part; When the magnetic head driver is in the first state, the telescopic part controls the first slide bar to slide along a first direction on the telescopic part, so that the first magnetic head aligns with the magnetic tape; the first direction is used to indicate the direction in which the magnetic head moves toward the magnetic tape; When the magnetic head driver is in the second state, the telescopic part controls the second slide bar to slide along the first direction on the telescopic part, and controls the first slide bar to slide along the second direction on the telescopic part, so that the second magnetic head connected to the second slide bar is aligned with the magnetic tape; the second direction is used to indicate the direction in which the magnetic head moves away from the magnetic tape.

5. The magnetic tape drive device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The magnetic tape drive device also includes: A cleaning belt is installed inside the magnetic tape drive equipment; The cleaning belt is used to clean the first magnetic head or the second magnetic head.

6. The magnetic tape drive device according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the head driver is in the second state, the second head accesses the magnetic tape, and the first head presses against the cleaning tape.

7. The magnetic tape drive device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The cleaning belt is detachable.

8. The magnetic tape drive device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The magnetic tape drive device also includes: The control unit is connected to the head driver; The control unit is used to control the head driver to be in a first state or to control the head driver to be in a second state.

9. The magnetic tape drive device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The magnetic tape drive device also includes: The detector is connected to the control component; The detector is configured to acquire characteristic values ​​of the first magnetic head on the magnetic tape when the magnetic head driver is in a first state, and to transmit the characteristic values ​​to the control unit; the characteristic values ​​include one or more of the following: bit error rate of the read / write operation of the magnetic head, uncorrectable error information, and calibration capability; The control unit is also used to control the magnetic head driver to switch from a first state to a second state when the characteristic value meets the magnetic head cleaning condition.

10. The magnetic tape drive device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The magnetic tape drive device also includes: The housing includes a communication interface for connecting external devices; The inner surface of the housing and the base form a cavity; The magnetic tape, the plurality of magnetic heads, and the magnetic head driver are disposed in the cavity.

11. A storage system, characterized in that, include: A controller; one or more magnetic tape drive devices according to any one of claims 1 to 10; The controller is used to manage one or more tape drive devices based on data access requests.

12. A method for controlling a magnetic head, characterized in that, The method is applied to the magnetic tape drive device according to any one of claims 1 to 10; the method includes: Obtain a data access request, wherein the data access request includes a first address; In response to the data access request, the head driver is controlled to drive the first head to access the first region corresponding to the first address in the magnetic tape; The first magnetic head is acquired by obtaining characteristic values, which include one or more of the following: bit error rate of read / write operations of the first magnetic head, uncorrectable error information, and calibration capability. If the characteristic value of the first magnetic head meets the cleaning condition, the magnetic head driver is controlled to drive the second magnetic head to access the first region.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, After obtaining the feature value of the first magnetic head, the method further includes: If the characteristic value of the first magnetic head meets the cleaning conditions, the magnetic head driver is controlled to drive the first magnetic head to press against the cleaning belt.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, If the number of cleaning cycles of the cleaning belt meets a preset threshold, a prompt message is output; the prompt message is used to instruct the cleaning belt to be replaced. Alternatively, if the second characteristic value of the first magnetic head after cleaning meets the magnetic head cleaning conditions, the prompt information is output.

15. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that, The tape drive device also includes a control component; the method is performed by the control component. Alternatively, the tape drive is connected to a controller, and the method is executed by the controller.

16. A controller, characterized in that, The controller includes a processor and a memory; the processor is configured to execute instructions stored in the memory to cause the controller to perform the method of any one of claims 12 to 15.

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