Lockable air-gap deep cells in tape libraries

Abstract

A deep slot cell houses a plurality of tape cartridges. The deep slot cell includes a front surface of the deep slot cell that allows a robotic mechanism to insert and remove a locked tape cartridge of the plurality of tape cartridges. The deep slot cell includes a depth surface of the deep slot cell with an opening that engages a locking mechanism that prevents a biasing spring mechanism of the deep slot cell from advancing a rearmost tape cartridge of the plurality of tape cartridges forward toward a front surface of the deep slot cell. The deep slot cell includes a front air gap at a front surface of the deep slot cell that prevents the robotic mechanism from reaching a frontmost tape cartridge of the plurality of tape cartridges after the robotic mechanism removes the locked tape cartridge from the deep slot cell.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to tape library data protection, and more specifically, to deep cell storage technology for tape libraries.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, tape cartridges have been used for video archives, backup files, disaster recovery replicas, and information retention on-premises, but the industry is expanding to off-premises applications in the cloud.

[0003] Tape cartridges are typically stored in large enterprise tape libraries. To store these tape cartridges, instead of a single tape in a storage slot, a high-density (HD) tape cartridge storage slot that can hold up to five tape cartridges stacked in a row is used, and an HD tape library rack that houses the HD tape cartridge storage slots is used. Each tape cartridge in the HD tape cartridge storage slot is referenced by a tier number indicating its position in the HD tape cartridge storage slot, and the tier number increases in the depth direction as additional tape cartridges are added to the HD tape cartridge storage slot.

[0004] Currently, there is extremely high demand for data security solutions. With hackers and cybercriminals rampant, data security is critical to clients. Clients need secure methods of data storage that address and mitigate concerns about data theft and misuse. The use of tape cartridges as a long-term storage medium is generally considered physically secure due to the physical "air gap." Each tape cartridge containing client data is inaccessible unless it is loaded into a tape drive that can read / write data. This physical barrier or "air gap" is a major selling point of storing data on tape cartridges when considered in contrast to storing data on flash or hard disks that are typically available "online" and can be connected to a network, potentially exposing them to hackers and cybercriminal activity. [Overview of the project]

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention disclose devices, methods, and computer systems for data storage protection.

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention disclose a device for data storage protection. The device includes a data storage library including a deep slot cell configured to house a plurality of tape cartridges, the deep slot cell including a front surface of the deep slot cell configured to allow a robotic mechanism to insert and remove a lock tape cartridge from the plurality of tape cartridges. The deep slot cell further includes a depth surface of the deep slot cell, configured to have an opening that engages with a locking mechanism that prevents a biasing spring mechanism of the deep slot cell from automatically advancing the last tape cartridge of the plurality of tape cartridges forward toward the front surface of the deep slot cell. The deep slot cell further includes a front air gap at the front surface of the deep slot cell that prevents the robotic mechanism from reaching the foremost tape cartridge of the plurality of tape cartridges after the robotic mechanism has removed the lock tape cartridge from the deep slot cell.

[0007] Embodiments of the present invention disclose a device for data storage protection. The device includes a data storage library including a deep slot cell configured to house a plurality of tape cartridges, the deep slot cell including a front surface configured to allow insertion and removal of the plurality of tape cartridges by a robotic mechanism. The deep slot cell further includes a front surface configured to allow insertion and removal of a lock tape cartridge among the plurality of tape cartridges by a robotic mechanism, the lock tape cartridge inserted into the front surface of the deep slot cell by a gripper assembly pushes each of the plurality of tape cartridges behind the lock tape cartridge toward the depth surface of the deep slot cell. The deep slot cell further includes a depth surface configured to have an opening for engaging with a lock mechanism, the engaged lock mechanism disabling a biasing spring mechanism of the deep slot cell. The deep slot cell further includes a front air gap at the front of the deep slot cell, which prevents the robotic mechanism from reaching the foremost tape cartridge among multiple tape cartridges after the gripper assembly has removed the lock tape cartridge from the deep slot cell. The deep slot cell further includes a locking mechanism configured to be manually released from the housing of the deep slot cell in the depth plane of the deep slot cell by user intervention, and manually releasing the locking mechanism from the housing allows the spring mechanism to advance the multiple tape cartridges.

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention disclose a device for data storage protection. The device includes a data storage library including a deep slot cell configured to house a plurality of tape cartridges, the deep slot cell including a front surface configured to allow insertion and removal of the plurality of tape cartridges by a robotic mechanism, the robotic mechanism being a gripper assembly incorporated within the data storage library. The deep slot cell further includes a front surface configured to allow insertion and removal of a lock tape cartridge among the plurality of tape cartridges by a robotic mechanism, the gripper assembly pushing each of the plurality of tape cartridges behind the lock tape cartridge toward the depth surface of the deep slot cell to a distance sufficient to engage the lock mechanism with a portion of the housing of the deep slot cell after it has passed through an opening formed in the depth surface of the deep slot cell. The deep slot cell further includes a depth plane of the deep slot cell configured with an opening that engages with a locking mechanism, the engaged locking mechanism preventing the biasing spring mechanism of the deep slot cell from automatically advancing the last tape cartridge of a plurality of tape cartridges forward toward the front of the deep slot cell. The deep slot cell further includes a front air gap at the front of the deep slot cell that prevents the robotic mechanism from reaching the foremost tape cartridge of the plurality of tape cartridges after the gripper assembly has removed the locked tape cartridge from the deep slot cell. The deep slot cell further includes a locking mechanism configured to be manually disengaged from the housing of the deep slot cell on the depth plane of the deep slot cell by user intervention, the locking mechanism being a pushable locking mechanism.

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention disclose a data storage protection method. The method comprises modifying a deep slot cell configured to house a plurality of tape cartridges, the modification of the deep slot cell comprising integrating a locking mechanism with a biasing spring mechanism of the deep slot cell. The method further comprises forming an opening in the depth plane of the deep slot cell to engage the locking mechanism. The method further comprises forming a front air gap on the front of the deep slot cell to prevent a robotic mechanism from reaching the foremost tape cartridge of the plurality of tape cartridges by loading and unloading a locking tape cartridge.

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention disclose a computer system for data storage protection. The computer system includes a program instruction for modifying a deep slot cell configured to house a plurality of tape cartridges, the program instruction for modifying the deep slot cell further includes a program instruction for integrating a locking mechanism with a biasing spring mechanism of the deep slot cell. The computer system further includes a program instruction for forming an opening in the depth surface of the deep slot cell to engage with the locking mechanism. The computer system further includes a program instruction for forming a front air gap on the front of the deep slot cell to prevent a robotic device from reaching the foremost tape cartridge of the plurality of tape cartridges by loading and unloading a locking tape cartridge. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing a data storage library according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view showing the storage rack of the data storage library in Figure 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3]This block diagram shows a controller configuration for the data storage library in Figure 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4A] This is a front perspective view showing a data storage drive in the data storage library of Figure 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4B] This is a rear perspective view showing the data storage drive of Figure 4A according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view showing a data storage cartridge in the data storage library of Figure 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A] This is a perspective view showing a multi-cartridge deep-slot cell in the data storage library of Figure 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] This is a perspective view showing a multi-cartridge deep-slot cell in the data storage library of Figure 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a side perspective view showing a data storage library in Figure 1, including a multi-cartridge deep-slot cell in Figures 6A and 6B with a lockable air gap mechanism, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows the steps for providing data storage protection according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a block diagram showing a component of a data processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention recognize that, in a tape library storage management environment, data security concerns may still exist for clients even when data is stored on tape cartridges in an automated tape library where a physical "air gap" barrier exists. For example, a potential concern is that a malicious hacker could infiltrate both the tape library and the server and load tape cartridges into tape drives where the data on those cartridges could be compromised.

[0013] Embodiments of the present invention recognize that a known solution to prevent such security exposure is to remove tape cartridges from an automated tape library and store them locked in a vault completely disconnected from any network. However, this still causes security exposure because, after removal from the tape library, there is a risk of loss or theft of the tape cartridges during transport to the vault.

[0014] Embodiments of the present invention recognize that maintaining this "air gap" offers security advantages. Embodiments of the present invention recognize the need for a mechanism that allows data to be securely stored in tape cartridges within an automated tape library while maintaining the advantages of the "air gap."

[0015] Embodiments of the present invention provide functionality that utilizes the inherent features present in tape libraries incorporating deep cell technology. In tape libraries incorporating deep cell technology, tape cartridges are stored in a stepped, transverse layout within deep slot cells, arranged front to back. When stored in this manner, tape library robotic devices can only access the tape cartridge located at the foremost position within the deep slot cell.

[0016] Embodiments of the present invention provide the ability to form lockable "air-gap" deep-slot cells by modifying the rear stop position of tape library data storage cells (i.e., deep-slot cells, high-density (HD) storage slots, etc.) to a slightly deeper rear stop position than currently used. Embodiments of the present invention provide the ability to add an additional layer of data security by ensuring that tape cartridges inserted into the lockable deep-slot storage cells by tape library robotic devices such as "palm-type" tape grippers stop in a position inaccessible to the "fingers" of the tape gripper used later for tape cartridge removal. Embodiments of the present invention provide the ability to require user intervention to physically push down the lockable mechanism in order to push the tape cartridges loaded in the lockable deep-slot cells back to a position accessible by the gripper robot fingers, so that each lockable deep-slot storage cell functions like a one-way street without user intervention.

[0017] Embodiments of the present invention recognize that, after a tape cartridge is loaded into a lockable "air-gap" deep-slot storage cell, the tape library robotic device cannot remove the tape cartridge without a coordinated action by the user pressing the locking mechanism to push the tape cartridge to the front of the lockable "air-gap" deep-slot cell using a spring mechanism and a push mechanism, thereby rendering the tape cartridge inaccessible and secure against hackers who might attempt to infiltrate the tape library to access or modify data and load a tape cartridge into a tape drive.

[0018] Embodiments of the present invention recognize that this lockable mechanism maintains all the advantages of conventional tape media storage while adding more robust security and data protection that further shields client data from malicious hackers and cybercrime activities. Further, embodiments of the present invention further recognize that the use of lockable "air-gap" deep slot storage cells eliminates potential security concerns associated with the transfer of tape cartridges away from the tape library, such as transfer to long-term storage vaults.

[0019] Implementations of such embodiments can take various forms, and the details of the implementation forms will be described later with reference to the drawings.

[0020] Next, referring more particularly to various embodiments of the present invention, FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a data storage library suitable for providing tape library data protection according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] The following description is made to illustrate the general principles of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention claimed in this application. Also, the specific features described herein can be used in combination with other described features in each of various possible combinations and permutations.

[0022] Unless otherwise specifically defined herein, all terms are to be given the broadest possible interpretation that includes the meaning implied from this specification and the meaning understood by those skilled in the art or defined in dictionaries, treatises, etc., or both.

[0023] Also, note that the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" used in this specification and the appended claims include plural referential concepts unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0024] The following description discloses several preferred embodiments of a magnetic storage system and their operation, or components, or both.

[0025] In a typical embodiment, a computer implementation method includes identifying a lower calibration target of a column of an automated tape library and identifying an upper calibration target of the same column. The method includes calculating at least one slot position between the upper and lower calibration targets. For at least some of the calculated slot positions, the method includes verification, which includes identifying the actual slot positions corresponding to the calculated slot positions. The actual slot positions are explored by a robotic access mechanism. The method includes comparing the calculated slot positions with the corresponding identified actual slot positions and determining whether the calculated slot positions are within a predetermined range of the corresponding identified actual slot positions. The method includes outputting the result of the determination.

[0026] In another common embodiment, the system includes a processor and logic that is integrated with the processor, executable by the processor, or integrated with the processor and executable by the processor. The logic is configured to perform the methods described above.

[0027] In another common embodiment, a computer program product includes one or more computer-readable storage media and program instructions stored together in the one or more computer-readable storage media. The program instructions include program instructions that perform the method described above.

[0028] Figures 1 and 2 show a data storage library 10 that stores and retrieves data storage cartridges containing data storage media (not shown) in a multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 and a single-cartridge storage slot 16. An example of an automated data storage library having a configuration similar to that shown in Figures 1 and 2, and which can be implemented together with some of the various methods described herein, is the IBM(R) 3584 UltraScalable tape library (IBM(R) and all IBM(R)-based trademarks and logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation and / or its affiliates). Note that in this specification, "data storage media" refers to a data storage cartridge, and in this application, these two terms may be used synonymously.

[0029] The data storage library 10 in Figure 1 includes a left-side service bay 13, one or more storage racks 11, and a right-side service bay 14. As detailed below, racks may include expansion components for the library. Therefore, storage racks can be added or removed to expand or reduce the size and / or functionality of the library. By various means, racks may include additional storage slots, deep slot cells, drives, import / export stations, access mechanisms, operator panels, and the like.

[0030] Figure 2 shows one embodiment of a data storage rig 11 that serves as the base rig for the data storage library 10. The data storage rig 11 shown in Figure 2 is intended as the minimum configuration of the data storage library 10, having only a single access mechanism (i.e., no redundant access mechanisms) such as a single access mechanism 18, and no service bays. However, in other embodiments, the storage rig may include multiple robotic access mechanisms or service bays, or both.

[0031] Referring to Figure 2, the data storage library 10 is configured to access data storage media in response to commands from at least one external host system (not shown). The data storage library 10 includes multiple storage slots, such as single-cartridge storage slots 16 on the front wall 17, and multiple multi-cartridge deep-slot cells, such as multi-cartridge deep-slot cells 100 on the rear wall 19, both of which are available for storing data storage cartridges capable of housing data storage media. In one method, the single-cartridge storage slots 16 are configured to store a single data storage cartridge, and the multi-cartridge deep-slot cells 100 are configured to store multiple data storage cartridges. In a preferred method, the multi-cartridge deep-slot cells can be arranged in tier order from front to rear (see, for example, Figures 6A and 7).

[0032] Continuing to refer to Figure 2, the data storage rack 11 of the data storage library 10 also includes at least one data storage drive, such as a data storage drive 15 for reading or writing data to or both to a data storage medium. Furthermore, a single access mechanism 18 can be used to transfer data storage media between single cartridge storage slots 16, multi-cartridge deep slot cells 100, or data storage drives 15 or a combination thereof. According to various methods, the data storage drive 15 may be an optical disc drive, a magnetic tape drive, a solid-state drive with non-volatile random-access memory (NVRAM) such as flash memory, or other types of data storage drives used for reading or writing data to or both to a data storage medium.

[0033] As shown in the figure, the data storage stand 11 may optionally include other user interfaces, such as an operator panel or a web-based interface, that allow users to interact with the library 10. The data storage stand 11 may optionally include an upper I / O station 24 or a lower I / O station 25 or both, thereby allowing data storage cartridges to be added to (e.g., inserted into) the library inventory, or removed from the library, or both, without interfering with library operation. The data storage library 10 may also have one or more data storage stands, such as the data storage stand 11, each having a single-cartridge storage slot 16, a multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100, or a data storage device 15 or a combination thereof, each preferably accessible by a single access mechanism 18.

[0034] As described above, the data storage rack 11 can be configured with different components depending on the intended function. One configuration of the data storage rack 11 may include a single-cartridge storage slot 16, a multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100, or a data storage device 15 or a combination thereof, and other optional components for storing and retrieving data from data storage cartridges. However, in another configuration, the data storage rack 11 may include the single-cartridge storage slot 16 and the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100, but may not include the other components. The single access mechanism 18 may have a barcode scanner or other reading system, such as a cartridge memory reader or similar system attached to a gripper assembly 20 for "reading" identification information about the data storage medium, or it may have a gripper assembly 20 for gripping one or more data storage media.

[0035] Figure 2 shows an automated data storage library 10 according to one embodiment. As one option, this automated data storage library 10 may be implemented together with any other embodiment's mechanism listed herein, such as the mechanism described with reference to other figures. However, naturally, such automated data storage library 10 and the others shown herein can be used for a variety of applications, substitutions, or both, which may or may not be specifically described in the exemplary embodiments listed herein. Furthermore, the automated data storage library 10 shown herein can be used in any desired environment. Therefore, Figure 2 (and the other figures) should be considered to include all possible substitutions.

[0036] The data storage library 10, which will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2, is illustrated in one embodiment. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the data storage library 10 can employ a controller configured as a distributed system consisting of modules having multiple processor nodes, for example.

[0037] In one approach, the library is controlled by a distributed control system rather than a centralized controller to receive logical commands, translate those commands into physical movements of the access mechanism and gripper, and operate the driver according to the desired physical movements. The distributed control system may also provide logistical support, such as responding to host requests for element status, inventory, library status, etc. The specific commands, the translation of those commands into physical movements, and the operation of the drive can be of a type known to those skilled in the art.

[0038] Although the data storage library 10 has been described as employing a distributed control system, various other methods, including but not limited to automated data storage libraries having one or more non-distributed library controllers, can be implemented in automated data storage libraries, regardless of the control configuration, as described or suggested herein, or both.

[0039] The data storage library 10 may have one or more data storage racks 11 and a left service bay 13 and a right service bay 14. The left service bay 13 has a first access mechanism, and as described above, the single access mechanism 18 may include a gripper assembly 20, or, depending on a desired embodiment, a barcode scanner (e.g., a reading system) that "reads" identification information relating to the data storage medium, or both. The right service bay 14 may also include a second access mechanism, which includes a second gripper assembly, and may also include a reading system (not shown) that "reads" identification information relating to the data storage medium.

[0040] According to one embodiment, if a single access mechanism 18 or gripper assembly 20, etc., fails or becomes unavailable for any other reason, a second access mechanism can perform some or all of the functions of the single access mechanism 18. Thus, in various ways, the two access mechanisms may share one or more mechanical paths, have completely independent mechanical paths, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the access mechanisms may have a common horizontal rail with independent vertical rails along which they move. It should also be noted that the access mechanisms are described as first and second for descriptive purposes only, and this description is not intended to limit the association of either access mechanism with either the left service bay 13 or the right service bay 14.

[0041] In one embodiment, which is not intended to limit the present invention in any way, the first and second access mechanisms may preferably move their respective grippers in at least two directions, which we call the horizontal "X" direction and the vertical "Y" direction, for tasks such as retrieving and grasping, distributing and releasing, loading and removing data storage cartridges in, for example, a single cartridge storage slot 16, a multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100, or a data storage device 15.

[0042] The data storage library 10 receives commands from one or more host systems (not shown). Host systems, such as host servers, communicate with the data storage library 10 directly, for example, via a path, via one or more control ports (not shown), or via one or more data storage drives 15 on the path. Thus, in various ways, host systems can access a specific data storage cartridge and issue commands to move that cartridge between, for example, a single-cartridge storage slot 16 and a data storage device 15. A command is typically a logical command that identifies a cartridge or cartridge medium, or a logical location for accessing that medium, or both. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms “command” and “work request” are interchangeable to refer to communication from a host system to the data storage library 10, such that access to a specific data storage medium within the data storage library 10 is intended to occur in accordance with the desired method.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the data storage library 10 is controllable by a library controller. In various ways, the library controller may include a distributed control system that receives logical commands from a host, determines the necessary actions, or translates the actions into physical movements of a first access mechanism, a second access mechanism, or both, or a combination thereof. In another way, the distributed control system may include a plurality of processor nodes, each having one or more computer processors. According to one embodiment of the distributed control system, a communication processor node may be located on the data storage rack 11. The communication processor node provides a communication link for receiving host commands directly or via the data storage drive 15, for example, via at least one external interface coupled to a circuit.

[0044] In one embodiment, a communication processor node may further provide a communication link for communicating with the data storage drive 15. The communication processor node may preferably be located within the data storage bay 11, for example, in close proximity to the data storage drive 15. Alternatively, one or more additional work processor nodes may be provided to form a distributed processor system, which may include work processor nodes located in the first access mechanism and coupled to the communication processor node via a network. By various means, each work processor node may respond to incoming commands broadcast to it from any communication processor node, and the work processor nodes may direct the operation of the access mechanism, for example, by giving move commands. XY processor nodes may be provided and located in the XY system of the first access mechanism. As shown in the figure, the XY processor nodes are connected to a network and respond to move commands, thereby causing the XY system to operate to position the gripper assembly 20.

[0045] Furthermore, an operator panel processor node may be optionally provided in the operator panel to provide an interface for communication between the operator panel and the communication processor node, the work processor node, and the XY processor node.

[0046] For example, a network is provided that includes a common bus connecting various processor nodes. The network may include a robust wiring network, such as a commercially available Controller Area Network (CAN) bus system, which is a multidrop network with standard access protocols and wiring standards as defined by the CiA(R) in Automation Association, Am Weich Selgarten 26, D-91058 Erlangen, Germany. As is known to those skilled in the art, other networks such as Ethernet(R) or wireless network systems such as RF or infrared may be employed in the library. Furthermore, multiple independent networks can also be used to connect various processor nodes.

[0047] The communication processor node can be coupled to the data storage drive 15 of the data storage rack 11 via a line, thereby enabling communication with the data storage drive 15 and one or more host systems. Alternatively, the host system may be coupled, for example, directly to the communication processor node at the input, or to a control port device (not shown) that couples the library to the host system using a library interface similar to a drive / library interface. As is known to those skilled in the art, various communication mechanisms can be employed for communication with the host and data storage devices. In one embodiment, the host connection is intended to be, for example, an Ethernet(R) and a SCSI bus, respectively, and can function as a host connection. However, the bus may also include an example of a Fibre Channel bus, which is a high-speed serial data interface that enables transmission over longer distances than a SCSI bus system.

[0048] According to some methods, the data storage drive 15 may be located in close proximity to the communication processor node, and may employ a short-range communication method such as Ethernet(R) or a serial connection such as RS-422. Therefore, the data storage drive 15 may be individually coupled to the communication processor node by one or more lines. Alternatively, the data storage drive 15 may be coupled to the communication processor node via one or more networks.

[0049] In addition, additional storage racks, such as data storage racks 11, may be provided, and each storage rack is preferably coupled to an adjacent storage rack. According to various methods, any of the additional storage racks 11 may include a communication processor node, a single cartridge storage slot 16, a data storage drive 15, a multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100, and one or more networks.

[0050] Furthermore, as described above, the data storage library 10 may include multiple access mechanisms. For example, a second access mechanism may be located in the right-hand service bay 14 in Figure 1. The second access mechanism may include a gripper assembly, such as a gripper assembly 20, for accessing the data storage medium, and an XY system for moving the second access mechanism. The second access mechanism may travel along the same horizontal mechanical path as the first access mechanism, or along an adjacent (e.g., separate) path, or both. The control system may also further include an extension network that forms an additional network coupled with the network of the data storage rack 11 and the network of the left-hand service bay 13.

[0051] In one embodiment, the first and second access mechanisms are associated with the left service bay 13 and the right service bay 14, respectively. However, this is illustrative, and the actual association is not required. Therefore, by another method, the network does not have to be associated with the left service bay 13, nor does it have to be associated with the right service bay 14. Furthermore, depending on the design of the data storage library 10, it may not be necessary at all to have the left service bay 13, the right service bay 14, or both.

[0052] The data storage library 10 typically includes one or more controllers that direct the operation of the automated data storage library. The host computer and data storage drive also typically include similar controllers. Library controllers can take many different forms, including, but are not limited to, embedded systems, distributed control systems, personal computers, workstations, and the like. As used herein, the term “library controller” is intended in its broadest sense to be a device comprising at least one processor and optionally further circuitry or logic, or both, for controlling or providing, or both, at least some aspects of the library's operation.

[0053] Referring to Figure 3, a typical controller 300 is shown comprising a processor 302, random access memory (RAM) 303, non-volatile memory 304, device-specific circuitry 301, and an I / O interface 305. Alternatively, the RAM 303, non-volatile memory 304, or both may be included in the processor 302, and the device-specific circuitry 301 and I / O interface 305 may be similar. The processor 302 may include, for example, a commercially available microprocessor, a custom processor, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or discrete logic. The RAM 303 is typically used to hold variable data, stack data, executable instructions, etc.

[0054] According to various methods, the non-volatile memory 304 may include any type of non-volatile memory, including but not limited to electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash programmable read-only memory (PROM), battery-backed RAM, and hard disk drives. However, the non-volatile memory 304 is typically used to hold executable firmware and any non-volatile data. The I / O interface 305 also includes a communication interface that allows the processor 302 to communicate with devices outside the controller. Examples include, but are not limited to, serial interfaces such as RS-232, USB (Universal Serial Bus), or Small Computer System Interface (SCSI). Device-specific circuitry 301 provides additional hardware that allows the controller 300 to perform specific functions, including, but not limited to, motor control of the cartridge gripper. Device-specific circuitry 301 may also include electronic circuits that provide, but are not limited to, pulse-width modulation (PWM) control, analog-to-digital conversion (ADC), digital-to-analog conversion (DAC), etc. Furthermore, all or part of the device-specific circuit 301 may be located outside the controller 300.

[0055] Although the data storage library 10 is described as employing a distributed control system, the various methods described or suggested herein, or both, can be implemented in various automated data storage libraries, including but not limited to automated data storage libraries having one or more non-distributed library controllers, regardless of the control configuration. Furthermore, the library controllers may include one or more dedicated controllers for the library, depending on the desired embodiment. For example, there may be a primary controller and a backup controller. Additionally, the library controllers may include one or more processor nodes of the distributed control system. In one embodiment, a communication processor node may include a library controller, with other processor nodes (if any) assisting the library controller, providing backup or redundancy, or both. In another embodiment, a communication processor node and a work processor node may work together to form a library controller, with other processor nodes (if any) assisting the library controller, providing backup or redundancy, or both. Furthermore, all processor nodes may include a library controller. According to the various methods described herein, or suggested, or both, the library controller may have a single processor or controller, or may include multiple processors or controllers.

[0056] Figures 4A and 4B show a front view 401 and a rear view 402 of a data storage drive 15 according to one embodiment. In the embodiment shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the data storage drive 15 includes a hot-swappable drive canister, but this does not limit the invention. In fact, any configuration of the data storage drive can be used, with or without a hot-swappable canister. As described above, the data storage drive 15 is used to read from or write to a data storage medium, or both, and may also communicate with memory separate from the medium, and is located in a cartridge. Thus, according to one method, a data storage cartridge can be inserted into the data storage drive 15 at the opening 403.

[0057] Furthermore, Figure 5 shows an embodiment of a data storage cartridge, such as a data storage cartridge 500 having a cartridge memory 510 shown in the cutout of the figure, but this is not intended to limit the present invention. In fact, any configuration of a data storage cartridge can be used, whether or not it includes a cartridge memory. According to various methods, the medium of the data storage cartridge medium may include, but is not limited to, any type of medium capable of storing data, including magnetic media such as magnetic tape and disks, optical media such as optical tape and disks, electronic media such as PROM, EEPROM, flash PROM, CompactFlash™, Smartmedia™, Memory Stick®, or other suitable media. Another example of a data storage cartridge widely used in automated data storage libraries for large-capacity data storage is a magnetic tape cartridge, where the medium is magnetic tape.

[0058] Figures 6A and 6B show a multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 having a biasing spring 152 as illustrated in one embodiment. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 includes a housing 110 defining an internal space 115. Multiple storage slots 120 are also arranged within the housing and can be configured to store up to multiple data storage cartridges 500 according to a desired method. Alternatively, the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 can be incorporated into a frame of an automated data storage library by one method.

[0059] Referring to Figures 6A and 6B, in one embodiment, the storage slot 120 is configured to store up to multiple data storage cartridges 500, and is shown arranged in a sequential order from front to back as tiers 621, 622, 623, 624, and 625. Note that the frontmost tier 621 is also called "tier 1," the next tier 622 is called "tier 2," and so on, with the last tier 625 being called "tier 5" or the "last tier." However, referring to Figure 2, in one embodiment, the single cartridge storage slot 16 is also called "tier 0." In one embodiment, the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100 is a high-density storage slot in a tape library rack, such as a data storage rack 11, that can store up to five tape cartridges (5x), such as data storage cartridges 500 stacked in a single slot space within the tape library rack. For example, the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100 is a high-density storage slot capable of storing up to five tape cartridges in a stepped orientation, where the tier 5 position of linear tape open (LTO) tape cartridges is the first tape cartridge loaded into the slot (the rearmost tape cartridge on the depth side of the tape library rack), and the tier 1 position is the last tape cartridge loaded into the slot (the frontmost tape cartridge on the front of the tape library rack). If an LTO tape cartridge is requested at the tier 5 position, the LTO tape cartridges in front of it (up to four cartridges) must be removed in order to access the requested LTO tape cartridge. In an alternative embodiment, the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100 can store up to four tape cartridges in a stepped orientation, where the tier 4 position of enterprise tape cartridges is the first tape cartridge loaded into the slot (the rearmost tape cartridge), and the tier 1 position is the last tape cartridge loaded into the slot (the frontmost tape cartridge).If an enterprise cartridge in a tier 4 position is requested, it is necessary to remove the enterprise tape cartridges in front of it (up to three cartridges) in order to access the requested enterprise tape cartridge. However, it should be understood that embodiments of the present invention can be implemented with tape library racks having any number of tiered positions within the storage slot.

[0060] In one embodiment, the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 may include a cartridge blocking mechanism having a retaining gate for holding data storage cartridges, such as data storage cartridges 500 within the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 according to one embodiment. According to one method, the retaining gate can be mounted externally to the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 in relation to the front opening of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100, and the retaining gate can be actuated, for example, by the access mechanism of the data storage library 10. The retaining gate also enables a positive cartridge retaining force against the pressure of a biasing spring 152 (see Figures 6A and 6B), ensuring that one or more data storage cartridges are not simultaneously pushed out of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100, while allowing the pushing mechanism (not shown) of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 to continuously push the data storage cartridges to the opening of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100. Therefore, according to one method, the access mechanism can open a retaining gate to access a data storage cartridge in Tier 1, and when it is removed, a biasing spring 152 moves the cartridge located behind the removed cartridge forward, thereby advancing the cartridge by one tier, as will be revealed below.

[0061] The basic function of the retaining gate is to prevent the data storage cartridge from being pushed out of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100. For example, the retaining gate can be lifted by a gripper assembly, such as a gripper assembly 20, or by a front storage cartridge, for the removal of a cartridge from the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 or for the insertion of a cartridge into the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100. Specifically, the retaining gate has a swivel arm attached to the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 via a swivel post that can be integrated into the structure of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100. The swivel arm is located below the latch of the retaining gate, and the thrust force via the data storage cartridge 500 generated by the pushing mechanism of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 causes the retaining gate to remain closed in the retaining position. The retaining gate is also preferably biased to close from above downward over the front opening of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100. This constant bias can be achieved by gravity or, for example, by implementing a spring force applied to a retaining gate.

[0062] For the removal of the front storage cartridge from the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 by a gripper assembly such as gripper assembly 20, the retaining gate must be lifted upward to the release position, thereby disengaging the retaining gate's latch from the front storage cartridge. Once the retaining gate is lifted to the release position and the access mechanism is engaged with a data storage cartridge such as data storage cartridge 500, the access mechanism can pull the storage cartridge out of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 into the gripper assembly such as gripper assembly 20 of the access mechanism without any obstruction by the retaining gate.

[0063] When the front storage cartridge is withdrawn and the subsequent data storage cartridge is held in place so as not to be pushed out of the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100, the retaining gate has successfully completed its cartridge removal process. When a gripper assembly, such as gripper assembly 20, begins to insert the storage cartridge back into the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100, the retaining gate is lifted to its released position so that the storage cartridge can pass through the front opening of the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100. The retaining gate's latch engages with the rear of the storage cartridge, specifically the tapered surface of the latch, and the storage cartridge is pushed into the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100 by the gripper assembly, such as gripper assembly 20, causing the retaining gate to be lifted to its released position. At this time, the data storage cartridge is pushed further into the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100 by the amount of the leading storage cartridge in the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100 by the gripper assembly, such as gripper assembly 20. Therefore, the gripper assembly 20 can provide a greater force than the counter-parallel thrust against it, overcoming the directional bias of the storage cartridge. Once fully inserted into the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100, the retaining gate moves to its retaining position and engages with the storage cartridge.

[0064] Therefore, referring to the various embodiments described herein, access to the storage slot may include the function of removing a cartridge from the storage slot, the function of inserting a cartridge into the storage slot, or a combination thereof.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the storage slots from the top to the bottom are parallel and are considered to contain the same tier. Also, the storage slots from the front to the back of a particular column are sequential and are considered to contain a continuous tier.

[0066] In one embodiment, for example, one or more data storage cartridges can be added to a data storage library 10 in an I / O station, and the data storage library 10 can then operate a single access mechanism 18 to transport its data storage cartridges to a specific multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100 and place the data storage cartridges therein. Similarly, a controller can operate the single access mechanism 18 to selectively extract, place and transport data storage cartridges to single cartridge storage slots 16, or to transport inserted or added cartridges to a specific single cartridge storage slot 16, or a combination of these.

[0067] Figure 7 shows a side perspective view of a data storage rack 11, indicated by an overall value of 700, which includes at least one multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 having a lockable air-gap mechanism and a tape gripper assembly such as a gripper assembly 20. In this exemplary embodiment, the data storage rack 11 includes multiple high-density storage slots, such as the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100. In one embodiment, the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 is positioned within the data storage rack 11 such that its deep-slot cell front 726 faces the data storage rack front 722 and its deep-slot cell depth 728 faces the data storage rack depth 724. For illustrative purposes, four deep-slot cells are shown to illustrate a comparison between one unmodified deep-slot cell and a set of three modified deep-slot cells having a lockable air-gap mechanism.

[0068] In one embodiment, a multi-cartridge deep slot cell, such as a deep slot cell 100, includes a plurality of tape cartridges, such as a tier 1 tape 702, a tier 2 tape 704, a tier 3 tape 706, a tier 4 tape 708, and a tier 5 tape 710, each tape cartridge is housed in a stepped lateral layout orientation, starting with a tier 1 tape 702 positioned at a tier 1 location, such as tier 621 in Figure 6A, on the deep slot cell front surface 726 of the deep slot cell 100, and ending with a tier 5 tape 710 positioned at a tier 5 location, such as tier 625 in Figure 6A, on the deep slot cell depth surface 728 of the deep slot cell 100. A set of three modified deep slot cells having a lockable air gap mechanism includes a lock tape 732 located at the foremost position within the deep slot cell 100, typically in the position occupied by a tier 1 tape, such as the tier 1 tape 702 illustrated in an unmodified deep slot cell.

[0069] In one embodiment, the lock tape 732 is a tape cartridge that can push one or more subsequent tape cartridges within a deep slot cell, such as a deep slot cell 100 (i.e., a stack including tape cartridges at tier 2, tier 3, tier 4, and tier 5 positions, such as tier 1 tape 702, tier 2 tape 704, tier 3 tape 706, tier 4 tape 708, and tier 5 tape 710 located at tiers 621, tier 622, tier 623, tier 624, and tier 625, respectively in Figure 6A) inward from the front surface 726 of the deep slot cell toward the depth surface 728 of the deep slot cell, by a sufficient distance, so as to engage a lock mechanism, such as a lock mechanism 730, with the rear of the housing of the deep slot cell 100. In one embodiment, the lock tape 732 is used to engage a lock mechanism, such as a lock mechanism 730, with the rear of the housing of the deep slot cell 100 (e.g., a hook, twist, latch, snap, etc.). In one embodiment, the lock tape 732 may be a cleaner tape cartridge, an empty regular tape cartridge, a tape cartridge storing data that does not need to be protected, a diagnostic tape cartridge, or any other tape cartridge that is large enough to push one or more subsequent tape cartridges in the deep slot cell a sufficient distance from the front of the deep slot cell toward the depth plane of the deep slot cell so that a locking mechanism, such as the locking mechanism 730, engages with the rear of the housing of the deep slot cell 100.In one embodiment, when the lock tape 732 is inserted into the deep slot cell 100, a locking mechanism such as the locking mechanism 730 engages with the rear of the housing of the deep slot cell 100 (i.e., is in a "blocked" state), thereby locking a spring mechanism such as the biasing spring 152 and a push mechanism such as the push mechanism 738 to the rear of the housing of the deep slot cell 100, rendering them inoperable and preventing one or more tape cartridges, such as the tier 2 tape 704, tier 3 tape 706, tier 4 tape 708 and tier 5 tape 710 located at tiers 622, 623, 624, and 625 respectively in Figure 6A, from advancing. In one embodiment, a lock tape cartridge, such as a lock tape 732, can be removed by a tape library robot mechanism, such as a gripper assembly 20, when a lock mechanism, such as a lock mechanism 730, engages with the rear of the housing of the deep slot cell 100. However, subsequent tape cartridges stored in the tier 2, tier 3, tier 4, and tier 5 positions, such as the tier 2 tape 704, tier 3 tape 706, tier 4 tape 708, and tier 5 tape 710 located at tiers 622, 623, 624, and 625 respectively in Figure 6A, cannot be removed from the deep slot cell 100 by the gripper assembly 20 without manual intervention to release the lock mechanism 730.In one embodiment, when a lock tape cartridge, such as a lock tape 732, is removed from the deep slot cell 100 by a tape library robot mechanism, such as a gripper assembly 20, and a lock mechanism, such as a lock mechanism 730, engages with the rear of the housing of the deep slot cell 100, the removal of the lock tape 732 creates an air gap, such as a lockable air gap 736, on the front 726 of the deep slot cell, which prevents the gripper assembly 20 from removing subsequent tape cartridges stored in the tier 2, tier 3, tier 4, and tier 5 positions, such as tier 2 tapes 704, tier 3 tapes 706, tier 4 tapes 708, and tier 5 tapes 710, located in tiers 622, 623, 624, and 625, respectively in Figure 6A.

[0070] A spring mechanism, such as a biasing spring 152, is incorporated into the pushing mechanism of the deep slot cell 100, such as a pushing mechanism 738, and together the biasing spring 152 and the pushing mechanism 738 apply spring tension to the multiple tape cartridges loaded in the deep slot cell 100, such as Tier 1 tape 702, Tier 2 tape 704, Tier 3 tape 706, Tier 4 tape 708, and Tier 5 tape 710, each of which is stored in Tier 621, Tier 622, Tier 623, Tier 624, and Tier 625 in Figure 6, causing these multiple tape cartridges to move laterally forward toward the front 626 of the deep slot cell for access by a tape library robot device of the data storage stand 11, such as a gripper assembly 20. In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 7, an unmodified deep slot cell is shown, such as an unmodified slot 742, which includes a biasing spring 152 and a push mechanism 738 to facilitate the normal loading and unloading of multiple tape cartridges from a deep slot cell, such as a deep slot cell 100. In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 7, three modified deep slot cells are shown, such as a modified slot 740, each including a lockable air gap, such as a lockable front air gap 736, which includes a lockable biasing spring 734, a push mechanism 738 and a locking mechanism 730 to prevent the normal loading and unloading of multiple tape cartridges from a deep slot cell, such as a deep slot cell 100.

[0071] For simplicity, Figure 7 shows three modified multi-cartridge deep-slot cells, such as modified slot 740, and an unmodified multi-cartridge deep-slot cell, such as unmodified slot 742. However, it should be understood that embodiments of the present invention can be similarly implemented with any combination of multi-cartridge deep-slot cells within a data storage rack up to the maximum physical capacity of the data storage rack. For example, a data storage rack may contain only one modified multi-cartridge deep-slot cell along with multiple unmodified multi-cartridge deep-slot cells, all of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cells may be modified, or any combination of multiple multi-cartridge deep-slot cells may be modified.

[0072] In one embodiment, a multi-cartridge deep-slot cell, such as a multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100, includes a physical modification within the housing of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 that provides robust data protection to each of the multiple tape cartridges stored in the deep-slot cell depth surface 728. In one embodiment, the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 includes a physical modification incorporated into the housing of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 that prevents a tape library robotic device, such as a gripper assembly 20 of a data storage library 10, from removing any tape cartridge, such as a data storage cartridge 500, stored behind a lockable tape cartridge, such as a lock tape 732, within the deep-slot cell 100, without coordinated manual assistance. In one embodiment, the physical modification within the housing of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 includes incorporating a locking mechanism, such as a locking mechanism 730, into the housing of the deep-slot cell 100, on at least a spring mechanism, such as a lockable biasing spring 734, or a push mechanism, such as a push mechanism 738, or both. In an alternative embodiment, the physical modification within the housing of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 includes incorporating a locking mechanism, such as a locking mechanism 730, into at least a spring mechanism, such as a biasing spring 152, or a push mechanism, such as a push mechanism 738, or both, by mechanically attaching the locking mechanism 730 to the lockable biasing spring 734 or the push mechanism 738, or both. For example, the locking mechanism 730 may be integrated with the biasing spring 152 or the push mechanism 738 or both by attaching the locking mechanism 730 to the lockable biasing spring 734 or the push mechanism 738 or both using mechanical fasteners (e.g., nuts and bolts, screws, pins, rivets or any other suitable mechanical fasteners known in the art).In yet another embodiment, the physical modification within the housing of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 includes incorporating a locking mechanism such as the locking mechanism 730 into at least a spring mechanism such as a lockable biasing spring 734 or a push mechanism such as a push mechanism 738 or both, by molding the locking mechanism 730 into the housing (e.g., a structure) of the push mechanism 738 during the manufacture of the push mechanism 738, such that the locking mechanism 730 is fully integrated with the push mechanism 738. In yet another embodiment, the physical modification within the housing of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 includes incorporating a locking mechanism such as the locking mechanism 730 into at least a spring mechanism such as the locking biasing spring 734 or a push mechanism such as the push mechanism 738 or both, by molding, mechanical coupling, or any combination thereof, within the housing of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100, such that the locking mechanism 730 is sufficiently mounted to the lockable biasing spring 734 or the push mechanism 738 or both.

[0073] In one embodiment, a locking mechanism such as a locking mechanism 730, which is integrated with a lockable biasing spring 734 or a push mechanism 738 or both of the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100 and engages with the rear of the housing of the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100 at the depth surface 728 of the deep slot cell, prevents a tape cartridge, such as a tier 2 tape 704, located at the front of the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100, such as the front of the deep slot cell 726, such as the tier 622 in Figure 6A, from being successfully gripped by a gripper assembly such as a gripper assembly 20, due to the formation of a lockable front air gap 736. For example, a theoretically "hacked" library might attempt to grip a tape cartridge, but the locking mechanism engaged in the depth plane of the deep slot cell would render the spring mechanism or push mechanism or both of the deep slot cell inoperable, forming a lockable front air gap on the front of the deep slot cell that prevents a gripper assembly such as gripper assembly 20 from successfully gripping the tape cartridge, thus causing the movement to fail and preventing the fingers of the gripper assembly such as gripper assembly 20 from successfully latching onto the tape cartridge.

[0074] In one embodiment, a locking mechanism, such as a locking mechanism 730 integrated with a lockable biasing spring 734 or a push mechanism 738 or both of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 and engaging with the rear of the housing of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 at the depth surface 728 of the deep-slot cell, forms a lockable front air gap at the front surface 726 of the deep-slot cell when a lock tape cartridge, such as a lock tape 732, is removed from the deep-slot cell 100. In one embodiment, the lockable front air gap 736 provides an "air gap" within the housing of the multi-cartridge deep-slot cell 100 that prevents the gripper assembly 20 from removing a plurality of tape cartridges, such as tier 2 tapes 704, tier 3 tapes 706, tier 4 tapes 708 and tier 5 tapes 710, each stored in tiers 621, 622, 623, 624, and 625 in Figure 6 of the deep-slot cell 100. In one embodiment, the lockable front air gap 736 makes the Tier 2 tapes 704, Tier 3 tapes 706, Tier 4 tapes 708, and Tier 5 tapes 710, each stored in Tier 621, Tier 622, Tier 623, Tier 624, and Tier 625 in Figure 6, inaccessible after they are loaded into the deep slot cell 100 behind the lock tape 732. In one embodiment, the distance of the lockable front air gap 736 from the front of the deep slot cell 726 to the housing of the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100 is determined by at least the length of the lock tape 732 or the length of the locking mechanism 730 or both.

[0075] For example, when a tape cartridge is loaded (i.e., stored) in a lockable air-gap deep slot cell such as modification slot 740, additional coordinated user intervention is required to properly remove the tape cartridge from that lockable air-gap deep slot cell. In this embodiment, where a tape cartridge is to be removed from a lockable air-gap deep slot cell such as modification slot 740, a user operator receives an alarm from the host computer, searches for a data storage rack such as data storage rack 11 in which the tape cartridge, such as Tier 2 tape 704, is stored, opens the rear door of the data storage rack, searches for the appropriate lockable air-gap deep slot cell from the rear of the data storage rack, and releases the lock mechanism by pressing a lock mechanism such as lock mechanism 730, thereby automatically advancing the last tape cartridge, such as Tier 5 tape 710, forward toward the front of the deep slot cell 726. In this embodiment, the lockable biasing spring 734 and the push mechanism 738 hold a stack of tape cartridges in the deep slot cell with a lockable air gap at the front of the deep slot cell 726, with the locking mechanism, such as the locking mechanism 730, released until the data storage rack, such as the data storage rack 11, receives a command for the gripper assembly, such as the gripper assembly 20, to search for a deep slot cell with a lockable air gap, such as the deep slot cell 100, and grip a tape cartridge, such as a Tier 2 tape 704. In this embodiment, the operation is highly secure against cyberattacks because it requires coordinated work between the local user operator and the data storage library control, by giving the user the action of pushing the locking mechanism, such as the locking mechanism 730, to release the spring mechanism, such as the lockable biasing spring 734, and advance one or more tape cartridges.

[0076] Furthermore, the geometry of existing deep slot cells does not allow tape cartridges to be removed from the rear of data storage racks such as data storage rack 11. For example, since tape cartridges cannot be physically removed through the back of the deep slot cell, disabling the spring mechanism of the deep slot cell, such as the biasing spring 152 of the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100, using a locking mechanism such as locking mechanism 730 reduces the threat of data loss or data theft due to direct human intervention with the data storage rack.

[0077] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism, such as locking mechanism 730, is a simple physical locking mechanism, such as a spring-loaded toggle bolt, snap latch, butterfly latch, or any other suitable locking mechanism known in the art, which is automatically depressable when passing through the dimensions of a hole or access hole, or both, located on the depth surface of the deep slot cell, such as the deep slot cell depth surface 728 of the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100. In one embodiment, locking mechanism 730 automatically engages when a lock tape cartridge, such as a lock tape 732, is loaded into the deep slot cell, such as the deep slot cell 100, as the foremost tape cartridge, after Tier 2, Tier 3, Tier 4, and Tier 5 tape cartridges, such as Tier 2 tape 704, Tier 3 tape 706, Tier 4 tape 708, and Tier 5 tape 710, have been loaded into the deep slot cell 100 by the grip assembly 20. For example, when a lock tape 732 is loaded into the modified slot 740, the lockable biasing spring 734 and push mechanism 738 of the deep slot cell 100 are locked to the rear inside the deep slot cell 100 using the lock mechanism 730. In this embodiment, the gripper assembly 20 will no longer be able to successfully grip the tier 2 tape 704, tier 3 tape 706, tier 4 tape 708 and tier 5 tape 710, but the lock tape 732 can be removed.

[0078] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 730 may be a pushable locking mechanism that is automatically pushable when it is passed through (for example, when it enters) a hole, opening, or access hole or a combination thereof located on the depth surface of the multi-cartridge deep slot cell, extends to a lockable position when it has passed through the hole or access hole or both, and can lock out a spring mechanism or a push mechanism or both for a length sufficient to create a lockable front air gap at the front of the multi-cartridge deep slot cell, such as a lockable front air gap 736 at the deep slot cell front 726 of the multi-cartridge deep slot cell 100. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 730 may be a specially designed locking mechanism that can be coupled to the rear of the housing of the deep slot cell or to the rear door of a data storage rack. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 730 can be any conceivable type of locking mechanism, such as a pushable latch, a twist lever, a hook mechanism, a liftable latch, a spring-loaded quarter-turn fastener, a sliding clasp, a swivel mechanism, or a pressure-actuated latch, which can automatically engage with the housing of a deep slot cell, such as a deep slot cell 100, and can be manually disengaged from the housing of the deep slot cell by user intervention.

[0079] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 7, three modified deep-cell slots are shown, such as a modified slot 740, each having a locking mechanism such as a locking mechanism 730 integrated with both biasing springs 152 or a push mechanism 738 or both within the housing of a deep-slot cell, such as a deep-slot cell 100. Each of the three modified deep-slot cells, such as the modified slot 740, shows different operating states, including, but not limited to, a locked state in which a lock tape cartridge such as a lock tape 732 is removed from the deep-slot cell 100 and the user begins to disengage the locking mechanism such as the locking mechanism 730; a locked state in which the lock tape cartridge such as a lock tape 732 is loaded in a tier 1 position such as tier 621 in Figure 6A; and an unlocked state in which a tape cartridge such as a tier 2 tape 704 is advanced to a tier 1 position such as tier 621 in Figure 6A by the biasing springs 152 and the push mechanism 738 for removal by a gripper assembly such as a gripper assembly 20. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 730 is attached to a lockable biasing spring 734 or a push mechanism 738 or both and engages with the rear of the housing of the deep slot cell 100, creating a lockable front air gap such as a lockable front air gap 736 within the housing of the deep slot cell 100, which provides data protection to one or more tape cartridges in the deep slot cell 100, such as Tier 2 tape 704, Tier 3 tape 706, Tier 4 tape 708 and Tier 5 tape 710, by preventing a gripper assembly such as a gripper assembly 20 from accessing one or more tape cartridges.

[0080] In one embodiment, the number and location of lockable air-gap slot cells, such as modified slots 740 within a data storage rack, such as data storage rack 11, may vary at least partially based on the tape library customer's requirements. For example, a number of slot cells, such as just one slot cell or all deep slot cells within a data storage rack (i.e., tape library rack) of a data storage library (i.e., tape library), can be configured as lockable air-gap deep slot cells by using a built-in locking mechanism attached to a spring mechanism or a push mechanism or both to disable the spring mechanism or push mechanism or both within the deep slot cell. In one embodiment, the number of tape cartridges that can be stored in a lockable air-gap deep slot cell, which can hold up to five tape cartridges, may vary from a single tape cartridge to a depth of up to four tape cartridges (i.e., up to four tape cartridges in a high-density storage slot for lockable tape cartridges that are removable by the gripper assembly and therefore occupy an unprotected tier 1 position). For example, if a deeper tape cartridge, such as the Tier 4 tape 708 located at Tier 624 in Figure 6A, needs to be removed from a deep slot cell with a lockable air gap, such as the modified slot 740, a human operator will need to disengage the locking mechanism from the housing of the deep slot cell 100 and push a lockable mechanism, such as the lockable mechanism 730, to allow the spring mechanism, such as the lockable biasing spring 734, or the push mechanism, such as the push mechanism 738, to be released, so that the stack of tape cartridges is automatically advanced toward the front of the deep slot cell, such as the deep slot cell front 726, for tape cartridge removal by a gripper assembly, such as the gripper assembly 20, until the desired tape cartridge is removed.

[0081] In one embodiment, a lockable air-gap deep slot cell provides an extremely secure method for storing data in tape cartridges within a tape library, and the lockable air-gap deep slot cell can be incorporated together with many conventional security measures for tape libraries, such as physical locks, electronic monitoring of door opening and closing, and physical inventory of cartridges, thereby providing the additional benefit of eliminating any risk associated with malicious intrusion into the control of tape library robotic devices for accessing tape cartridges located within the lockable air-gap deep slot cell.

[0082] Figure 8 shows a flowchart, all denoted as 800, illustrating the steps for providing data storage protection according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the method for providing data storage protection includes the step of modifying a deep slot cell, such as a deep slot cell 100, the step of modifying a deep slot cell, which includes integrating a locking mechanism with the spring mechanism of the deep slot cell (802), forming an opening in the depth surface of the deep slot cell to engage with the locking mechanism (804), and forming a front air gap at the front of the deep slot cell by loading and unloading a lock tape cartridge (806).

[0083] In one embodiment, integrating a locking mechanism into the spring mechanism of a deep slot cell (802) includes modifying the spring mechanism of a deep slot cell, such as the biasing spring 152 of the deep slot cell 100, to have a locking mechanism, such as a locking mechanism 730 mechanically attached to the biasing spring 152. For example, the spring mechanism of a deep slot cell, such as the biasing spring 152 of the deep slot cell 100, can be modified to have a locking mechanism, such as a locking mechanism 730 mechanically attached to the biasing spring 152, by using one or more mechanical fasteners such as one or more screws, one or more combinations of nuts and bolts, one or more clips, one or more rivets, to securely attach the locking mechanism to the biasing spring mechanism, such that when the locking mechanism engages with an opening in the depth surface of the deep slot cell, such as the depth surface 728 of the deep slot cell, the locking mechanism prevents the biasing spring mechanism from applying forward pressure to one or more tape cartridges, such as the locking tape 732, tier 2 tape 704, tier 3 tape 706, tier 4 tape 708, and tier 5 tape 710, which are stored in the deep slot cell.

[0084] In one embodiment, forming an opening in the depth surface of a deep slot cell to engage with a locking mechanism (804) includes machining a hole in the housing of the deep slot cell, such as the deep slot cell 100. For example, forming an opening in the depth surface of a deep slot cell, such as the deep slot cell depth surface 728, includes machining a hole in the housing of the deep slot cell, such as the deep slot cell 100, the hole being sized to receive a locking mechanism, such as a locking mechanism 730, and the hole being configured to automatically engage the locking mechanism with a portion of the housing of the deep slot cell to prevent a biasing spring mechanism, such as a biasing spring 152, from automatically advancing one or more tapes, such as tier 2 tape 704, tier 3 tape 706, tier 4 tape 708, and tier 5 tape 710, to the front of the deep slot cell, such as the deep slot cell front 726, for removal by a gripper assembly, such as a gripper assembly 20.

[0085] In one embodiment, forming a front air gap in front of a deep slot cell by loading and unloading a lock tape cartridge (806) includes using a lock tape cartridge such as a lock tape 732 so as to engage a lock mechanism such as a lock mechanism 730 when loaded into a deep slot cell such as a deep slot cell 100, and exposing a lockable front air gap such as a lockable front air gap 736 so as to isolate any one or more stored tape cartridges from a gripper assembly such as a gripper assembly 20 when removed from the deep slot cell. For example, forming a lockable front air gap 736 on the front of a deep slot cell, such as a deep slot cell front 726, involves loading a lock tape cartridge, such as a lock tape 732, onto the front of the deep slot cell, such as a deep slot cell front 726, via a gripper assembly, such as a gripper assembly 20, thereby allowing a biasing spring mechanism, such as a biasing spring 152, to load one or more tape cartridges, such as a tier 2 tape 704, a tier 3 tape 706, a tier 4 tape 708, and a tier 5 tape 710, onto the deep slot cell front 726. To automatically prevent it from automatically advancing to the front, a locking mechanism such as a locking mechanism 730 is engaged with a portion of the housing of a deep slot cell such as a deep slot cell 100, and a locking tape such as a locking tape 732 is removed from the housing of a deep slot cell such as

[0086] Figure 9 is a block diagram, shown as 900 in total, showing components of a computing system, such as a server computer (e.g., a host computer), interconnected with the data storage library 10 of Figure 1, shown as 900 in total, according to one embodiment of the present invention. It should be understood that Figure 9 is merely an example of one implementation and does not imply any limitations on the environment in that different embodiments can be implemented. Many modifications can be made to the environment shown in the figure.

[0087] In the exemplary embodiment, the host computer is shown in the form of a general-purpose computing device, such as a computer system 910. The components of the computer system 910 may include, but are not limited to, one or more processors or processing units 914, memory 924, and a bus 916 that connects various system components, including the memory 924, to the processing unit 914.

[0088] Bus 916 corresponds to one or more of several bus structures, including memory buses or memory controllers, peripheral buses, accelerated graphics ports, and processor buses or local buses, using any of the various architectures. Examples of such architectures include, but are not limited to, the Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus, Expansion ISA (EISA) bus, Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) local bus, and Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus.

[0089] The computer system 910 typically includes various computer system-readable media. Such media may be any available media accessible by the computer system 910, and include both volatile and non-volatile media, and removable and non-removable media.

[0090] Memory 924 may include computer system-readable media in the form of volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM) 926 or cache memory 928 or both. Computer system 910 may further include other removable / non-removable, volatile / non-volatile computer system storage media. For illustrative purposes only, a storage system 930 may be provided for reading from and writing to non-removable non-volatile magnetic media (not shown, generally referred to as “hard drives”). Not shown, a magnetic disk drive may be provided for reading from and writing to removable non-volatile magnetic disks (e.g., “floppy disks”), and an optical disk drive may be provided for reading from and writing to removable non-volatile optical disks, such as CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs or other optical media. In such cases, each may be connectable to bus 916 by one or more data media interfaces. As further illustrated and described below, the memory 924 may include at least one computer program product having a set (e.g., at least one) of program modules configured to perform the functions of embodiments of the present invention.

[0091] A program / utility 932 having a set of one or more program modules 934 may be stored in memory 924, for example, but not limited to, an operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules, and program data. Each of the operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules, and program data, or any combination thereof, may include an implementation of a networking environment. The program module 934 generally carries out the functions and / or methods of the embodiments of the present invention as described herein. The computer system 910 may also communicate with one or more external devices 912, such as a keyboard, a pointing device, a display 922, or one or more devices that enable a user to interact with the computer system 910, and any devices that enable the computer system 910 to communicate with one or more other computing devices (e.g., a network card, a modem). Such communication may be carried out via an input / output (I / O) interface 920. Furthermore, the computer system 910 can communicate with one or more networks, such as a local area network (LAN), a general-purpose wide area network (WAN), or a public network (e.g., the Internet), or a combination thereof, via the network adapter 918. As shown in the diagram, the network adapter 918 communicates with other components of the computer system 910 via the bus 916. It should be understood that other hardware and software components, such as microcode, device drivers, redundant processing units, external disk drive arrays, RAID systems, tape drives, and data archive storage systems, may be used with the computer system 910, although these are not shown.

[0092] The present invention may be a system, method, or computer program product or a combination thereof. The computer program product may include a computer-readable storage medium (or more mediums) storing computer-readable program instructions for causing a processor to carry out aspects of the present invention. In one embodiment, the computer-readable storage medium storing the computer-readable program instructions may be located inside a server computer. In another embodiment, the computer-readable storage medium storing the computer-readable program instructions may be located inside a server computer. In yet another embodiment, the computer-readable storage medium storing the computer-readable program instructions may be stored outside a server computer so that a client computer can communicate with the server computer via a network connection to execute computer-readable program instructions on the data storage library 10.

[0093] In another embodiment, the computer-readable storage medium storing the computer-readable program instructions may be located inside the data storage library 10. In yet another embodiment, the computer-readable storage medium storing the computer-readable program instructions may be stored outside the data storage library 10 so that the server computer communicates with the data storage library 10 via a network connection to execute the computer-readable program instructions on the data storage library 10.

[0094] A computer-readable storage medium can be a tangible device capable of holding and storing instructions used by an instruction execution device. A computer-readable storage medium may be, but is not limited to, an electronic storage device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, or any suitable combination thereof. A non-exhaustive list of more specific examples of computer-readable storage media includes portable computer diskettes, hard disks, random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), static random-access memory (SRAM), portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disks (DVDs), memory sticks, floppy disks, mechanically encoded devices such as punch cards or grooved raised structures on which instructions are recorded, and any suitable combination thereof. As used herein, computer-readable storage media should not be interpreted as transient signals themselves, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through waveguides or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses through optical fiber cables), or electrical signals transmitted through wires.

[0095] The computer-readable program instructions described herein can be downloaded from a computer-readable storage medium to each computing / processing device, or to an external computer or external storage device via a network, such as the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network, or a wireless network, or a combination thereof. The network may include copper transmission cables, optical transmission fibers, wireless transmissions, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers, or edge servers, or a combination thereof. A network adapter card or network interface in each computing / processing device receives computer-readable program instructions from the network and transfers those computer-readable program instructions for storage in a computer-readable storage medium within the respective computing / processing device.

[0096] The computer-readable program instructions for performing the operations of the present invention may be assembler instructions, instruction set architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine-dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, state setting data, or source code or object code written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Smalltalk(R) and C++, and conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as the C programming language or similar programming languages. The computer-readable program instructions may be executed as a standalone software package entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In the latter case, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer via any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, via the Internet using an Internet service provider). In some embodiments, to carry out aspects of the present invention, an electronic circuit including, for example, a programmable logic circuit, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or a programmable logic array (PLA) can execute a computer-readable program instruction by personalizing the electronic circuit using state information of the computer-readable program instruction.

[0097] Aspects of the present invention are described herein with reference to flowcharts or block diagrams, or both, illustrating methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of the present invention. It should be understood that each block in the flowcharts or block diagrams, or both, and combinations of blocks in the flowcharts or block diagrams, or both, can be implemented using computer-readable program instructions.

[0098] These computer-readable program instructions can be supplied to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a dedicated computer, or other programmable data processing device in order to realize a machine such that instructions executed by the processor of a computer or other programmable data processing device form means for implementing functions / operations specified in a flowchart or block diagram or both blocks. These computer-readable program instructions may be stored on a computer-readable storage medium on which the instructions are stored, which can be instructed to function in a particular manner to a computer, a programmable data processing device, or other device or a combination thereof, so as to contain a product containing instructions that implements a mode of function / operation specified in a flowchart or block diagram or both blocks.

[0099] Computer-readable program instructions may be loaded into a computer, other programmable device, or other device in order to perform a series of operational steps on the computer, other programmable device, or other device to realize a computer implementation process, such that instructions executed on the computer, other programmable device, or other device implement the functions / operations specified in the flowchart or block diagram or both.

[0100] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. In some alternative implementations, the functions described in a block may be performed in a different order than shown in the diagram. For example, two blocks shown consecutively may actually be executed substantially in parallel, depending on the functions involved, or the blocks may be executed in reverse order. It should also be noted that each block in a block diagram or flowchart, or both, and any combination of blocks in a block diagram or flowchart, or both, can be implemented by a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or operation, or by a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0101] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described for illustrative purposes, they are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit oneself to the embodiments disclosed. Many changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. The terms used herein have been selected to best describe the principles of the embodiments, their practical applications, or technical improvements to the art found in the market, or to enable those skilled in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0102] The terms used herein are for the sole purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. Any particular notation used herein is for convenience only, and it should be understood that the invention should not be limited to use in any specific function identified, implied, or both by such notation. Furthermore, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” used herein are intended to include the plural form unless the context clearly indicates a different interpretation.

Claims

1. A device for providing data storage protection, Includes a data storage library that includes deep slot cells configured to accommodate multiple tape cartridges, The aforementioned deep slot cell, The front surface of the deep slot cell is configured to allow insertion and removal of the lock tape cartridge among the plurality of tape cartridges by a robotic mechanism, The depth surface of the deep slot cell is configured to have an opening for engaging a locking mechanism that prevents the biasing spring mechanism of the deep slot cell from automatically advancing the last tape cartridge among the plurality of tape cartridges toward the front of the deep slot cell, Apparatus including a front air gap on the front of the deep slot cell, which prevents the robotic mechanism from reaching the foremost tape cartridge among the plurality of tape cartridges after the robotic mechanism has removed the lock tape cartridge from the deep slot cell.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the deep slot cell is configured to include a biasing spring mechanism attached to the locking mechanism from within the housing of the deep slot cell.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the deep slot cell is configured to include a push mechanism attached to the locking mechanism from within the housing of the deep slot cell, and the push mechanism is a component of the deep slot cell including the biasing spring mechanism for automatically advancing the plurality of tape cartridges housed in the deep slot cell forward.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the robot mechanism is a gripper assembly incorporated within the data storage library.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, in response to the locking tape cartridge being inserted into the front of the deep slot cell by the gripper assembly, each of the other tape cartridges among the plurality of tape cartridges behind the locking tape cartridge is pushed toward the depth surface of the deep slot cell to a distance sufficient to engage the locking mechanism with a portion of the housing of the deep slot cell after it has passed through the opening in the depth surface of the deep slot cell.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the length of the front air gap of the deep slot cell, from the front surface of the deep slot cell to the housing of the deep slot cell, is determined at least in part on the dimensions of the lock tape cartridge inserted into the deep slot cell by the gripper assembly and the length of the lock mechanism when engaged with the portion of the housing of the deep slot cell.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism is a pushable locking mechanism that is automatically pressed down when it enters the opening in the depth surface of the deep slot cell, and automatically extends to a lockable position when it passes through the opening in the depth surface of the deep slot cell.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism can be manually disengaged by user intervention from the housing of the deep slot cell at the depth surface of the deep slot cell.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the locking mechanism is manually disengaged from the depth surface of the deep slot cell, the biasing spring mechanism is configured to automatically advance the plurality of tape cartridges toward the front surface of the deep slot cell, so that the gripper assembly can remove the foremost tape cartridge of the plurality of tape cartridges.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the lock tape cartridge is a tape cartridge that stores data that has been identified as not needing protection.

11. A device for providing data storage protection, Includes a data storage library that includes deep slot cells configured to accommodate multiple tape cartridges, The aforementioned deep slot cell, The front surface of the deep slot cell, configured to allow insertion and removal of multiple tape cartridges by a robotic mechanism, The front surface of the deep slot cell, configured to allow insertion and removal of the lock tape cartridge among the plurality of tape cartridges by the robotic mechanism, wherein the insertion of the lock tape cartridge into the front surface of the deep slot cell by the robotic mechanism pushes each of the plurality of tape cartridges behind the lock tape cartridge toward the depth surface of the deep slot cell, The depth surface of the deep slot cell, which is configured to have an opening that engages with a locking mechanism, wherein the engaged locking mechanism disables the biasing spring mechanism of the deep slot cell, After the robot mechanism removes the lock tape cartridge from the deep slot cell, a front air gap on the front of the deep slot cell prevents the robot mechanism from reaching the foremost tape cartridge among the plurality of tape cartridges, A device comprising the locking mechanism configured to be manually disengaged from the housing of the deep slot cell by user intervention at the depth plane of the deep slot cell.

12. A device for providing data storage protection, Includes a data storage library that includes deep slot cells configured to accommodate multiple tape cartridges, The aforementioned deep slot cell, The front of the deep slot cell, configured to allow insertion and removal of multiple tape cartridges by a robotic mechanism, wherein the robotic mechanism is a gripper assembly incorporated within the data storage library, The front surface of the deep slot cell, configured to allow insertion and removal of the lock tape cartridge among the plurality of tape cartridges by the robotic mechanism, wherein the insertion of the lock tape cartridge into the front surface of the deep slot cell by the gripper assembly pushes each of the plurality of tape cartridges behind the lock tape cartridge toward the depth surface of the deep slot cell far enough to engage the lock mechanism with a portion of the housing of the deep slot cell after passing through an opening formed in the depth surface of the deep slot cell, The depth surface of the deep slot cell, which is configured to have the opening that engages with the locking mechanism, wherein the engaged locking mechanism prevents the biasing spring mechanism of the deep slot cell from automatically advancing the last tape cartridge of the plurality of tape cartridges forward toward the front of the deep slot cell, After the gripper assembly removes the lock tape cartridge from the deep slot cell, a front air gap on the front of the deep slot cell prevents the robotic mechanism from reaching the foremost tape cartridge among the plurality of tape cartridges, A device comprising a locking mechanism configured to be manually disengaged from the housing of the deep slot cell by user intervention in the depth plane of the deep slot cell, the locking mechanism being a pushable locking mechanism.

13. A method for providing data storage protection, This includes modifying a deep slot cell configured to accommodate multiple tape cartridges, Modifying the aforementioned deep slot cell The locking mechanism is integrated with the biasing spring mechanism of the deep slot cell, An opening is formed in the depth surface of the deep slot cell so as to engage with the locking mechanism, A method comprising forming a front air gap in front of the deep slot cell to prevent a robotic mechanism from reaching the foremost tape cartridge among the plurality of tape cartridges by loading and unloading the lock tape cartridge.

14. Modifying the aforementioned deep slot cell The method according to claim 13, further comprising mechanically attaching the locking mechanism to the biasing spring mechanism within the housing of the deep slot cell.

15. Modifying the aforementioned deep slot cell The method according to claim 13, further comprising mechanically mounting the locking mechanism to a push mechanism within the housing of the deep slot cell, wherein the push mechanism is a component of the deep slot cell including the biasing spring mechanism for automatically advancing the plurality of tape cartridges housed in the deep slot cell.

16. The method according to claim 13, wherein the robotic mechanism is a gripper assembly incorporated within the data storage assembly.

17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising inserting the lock tape cartridge into the front of the deep slot cell such that each of the other tape cartridges among the plurality of tape cartridges, which is behind the lock tape cartridge, is pushed toward the depth surface of the deep slot cell far enough to engage the lock mechanism with a portion of the housing of the deep slot cell after it has passed through the opening in the depth surface of the deep slot cell.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising determining the length of the front air gap of the deep slot cell from the front of the deep slot cell to the inside of the housing of the deep slot cell, at least partially based on the dimensions of the lock tape cartridge inserted into the deep slot cell by the gripper assembly and the length of the lock mechanism when engaged with a portion of the housing of the deep slot cell.

19. The method according to claim 13, further comprising manually disengaging the locking mechanism from the depth surface of the deep slot cell, wherein disengaging the locking mechanism allows the biasing spring mechanism to automatically advance the plurality of tape cartridges toward the front surface of the deep slot cell so that the gripper assembly can remove the foremost tape cartridge of the plurality of tape cartridges.

20. The method according to claim 13, wherein the locking mechanism is a pushable locking mechanism that is automatically pressed down when it enters the opening in the depth surface of the deep slot cell, and automatically extends into a lockable position when it passes through the opening in the depth surface of the deep slot cell.

21. The method according to claim 13, wherein the lock tape cartridge is a cleaner tape cartridge.

22. A computer system for protecting tape library data, One or more computer processors, One or more computer-readable storage media, Includes program instructions stored in at least one of the one or more computer-readable storage media for execution by at least one of the one or more computer processors, The stored program instruction, Includes program instructions for modifying a deep slot cell configured to accommodate multiple tape cartridges, The program instruction for modifying the deep slot cell is, A program instruction to integrate the locking mechanism with the biasing spring mechanism of the deep slot cell, A program instruction to form an opening in the depth plane of the deep slot cell so as to engage with the locking mechanism, A computer system further comprising a program instruction for forming a front air gap at the front of the deep slot cell, which prevents a robotic mechanism from reaching the foremost tape cartridge among the plurality of tape cartridges by loading and unloading a lock tape cartridge.

23. The computer system according to claim 22, further comprising a program instruction for inserting the lock tape cartridge into the front of the deep slot cell such that each of the other tape cartridges among the plurality of tape cartridges, which is behind the lock tape cartridge, is pushed toward the depth surface of the deep slot cell to a distance sufficient to engage the lock mechanism with a portion of the housing of the deep slot cell after it has passed through the opening formed on the depth surface of the deep slot cell.

24. The computer system according to claim 23, further comprising a program instruction for determining the length of the front air gap of the deep slot cell from the front of the deep slot cell to the housing of the deep slot cell, based at least partially on the dimensions of the lock tape cartridge inserted into the deep slot cell by a gripper assembly and the length of the lock mechanism when engaged with the portion of the housing of the deep slot cell.

25. The computer system according to claim 22, further comprising a program instruction for manually disengaging the locking mechanism from the depth surface of the deep slot cell, wherein disengaging the locking mechanism allows the biasing spring mechanism to automatically advance the plurality of tape cartridges toward the front surface of the deep slot cell so that the gripper assembly can remove the foremost tape cartridge of the plurality of tape cartridges.

Images