Packaging and Packaging Method
The packaging body with a readable identifier and transparent packaging member simplifies the handling and insertion of multiple magnetic tape cartridges into a library by facilitating easy identification and reducing the complexity of packaging and removal processes.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- FUJIFILM CORP
- Filing Date
- 2022-03-15
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-26
AI Technical Summary
Existing packaging methods for magnetic tape cartridges are cumbersome as they require individual removal of packaging materials when loading multiple cartridges into a library, complicating the packaging and removal process.
A packaging body comprising a storage member with an opening for inserting and removing magnetic tape cartridges, covered by a packaging member that allows the identifier to be read and is made of a material that transmits visible light, such as a film-like or lid-like member, facilitating easy identification and handling of multiple cartridges.
The solution simplifies the packaging and removal of multiple magnetic tape cartridges by allowing easy identification and handling, reducing the complexity of the process and enabling direct insertion into a magnetic tape library.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to a package and a packaging method.
Background Art
[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a media library device. The media library device includes a magazine that houses a plurality of cartridges each containing a storage medium, a disk drive that mounts a cartridge and reads and writes data to the storage medium, a transport means including a transport unit that extracts a requested cartridge from the magazine and transports it to the disk drive, and a management means that operates in response to a request from a user and controls the disk drive and the transport means. The cartridge has a barcode including an identification number of each cartridge attached to the exterior, and a cartridge memory that stores management information representing the content of the storage medium of each cartridge. The disk drive includes a cartridge memory reading unit that reads the content of the cartridge memory when the cartridge is mounted. In the media library device, the transport means includes a barcode reading unit that reads the barcode on the transport unit, and the management means includes a storage unit that associates and stores the identification number read from the barcode and the management information read from the cartridge memory, a media information management unit that searches for management information corresponding to a newly read identification number from the barcode, and an input / output unit that displays the searched management information on a previously provided display unit and captures a command input from the user. The barcode reading unit is provided on the cartridge inlet side of the transport unit.
[0003] Patent Document 2 discloses a storage and management device for photosensitive recording medium cartridges. The storage and management device is characterized by comprising: a cartridge storage compartment for aligning and storing photosensitive recording medium cartridges, each in which a disc-shaped photosensitive recording medium is housed in a cartridge body which is a thin rectangular box; an RFID communication means provided to be movable along the alignment direction of the photosensitive recording medium cartridges within the cartridge storage compartment and for communicating with RFID tags equipped at predetermined positions on the photosensitive recording medium cartridges; a control device that controls the communication operation of the RFID communication means and the movement operation of the photosensitive recording medium cartridges in the alignment direction to collect identification information attached to the RFID tags of each photosensitive recording medium cartridge housed in the cartridge storage compartment; and a display device that displays the identification information and the like collected by the control device.
[0004] Patent Document 3 discloses a media library device. The media library device comprises a media storage unit that stores multiple media for recording data, a media drive that records and plays back data from the media stored in the media storage unit, a robot hand that moves between the media storage unit and the media drive to transport the media, a table that holds the robot hand, a robot control unit that controls the movement of the robot hand and the table, and a housing that is all or partly transparent that houses the media storage unit, the media drive, the table, and the robot control unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]
[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2012-243346 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2007-087475 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2010-092543 [Overview of the Initiative]
[0006] One embodiment of the technology of this disclosure provides a packaging body and a packaging method that facilitates the packaging of magnetic tape cartridges or the removal of packaging materials compared to when magnetic tape cartridges are packaged separately. [Means for solving the problem]
[0007] A first aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a packaging body comprising: a magnetic tape cartridge having a case on which an identifier is displayed on its surface; a storage member having an opening for inserting and removing the magnetic tape cartridge and storing the magnetic tape cartridge in a readable state; and a packaging member covering at least the opening of the storage member.
[0008] A second aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a packaging body according to the first aspect, wherein the packaging member is a film-like member formed in the shape of a film.
[0009] A third aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a packaging body according to the first aspect, wherein the packaging member is a lid-shaped member formed to be detachably attached to the storage member.
[0010] A fourth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a packaging body relating to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the packaging member covers the storage member in a manner that allows the identifier to be read.
[0011] A fifth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a packaging body according to the fourth aspect, wherein the packaging member is formed of a material that transmits visible light.
[0012] A sixth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a packaging according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the storage member is a magazine for magnetic tape cartridges formed to be inserted into a magnetic tape library.
[0013] A seventh aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a packaging body according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the packaging body comprises a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges, and the storage member has a plurality of storage compartments for storing each of the plurality of magnetic tape cartridges.
[0014] An eighth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a packaging according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the identifier is displayed on the opening side of the case.
[0015] A ninth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a package relating to any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the identifier includes a one-dimensional image and / or a two-dimensional matrix image.
[0016] A tenth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a packaging body according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein the storage member has a first surface on which an opening is formed and a second surface adjacent to the first surface on which a gripping portion is provided.
[0017] An eleventh aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a packaging method that includes inserting a magnetic tape cartridge having a case on which an identifier is displayed on its surface into a storage member in a manner in which the identifier is readable, by inserting the magnetic tape cartridge into an opening, and covering at least the opening of the storage member with a packaging member. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0018] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the appearance of a magnetic tape cartridge according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic perspective view showing an example of an identifier displayed on a magnetic tape cartridge according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the appearance of a cartridge magazine according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the appearance of a cartridge magazine according to the embodiment. [Figure 5]It is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the package according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the state where the cartridge magazine according to the embodiment is inserted into the magnetic tape library. [Figure 7] It is a schematic configuration diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the magnetic tape library according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing an example of the packing process according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the package according to the modification. [Figure 10] It is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the package according to the modification. [Figure 11] It is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the cartridge magazine according to the modification. [Figure 12] It is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the identifier displayed on the magnetic tape cartridge according to the modification.
Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
[0019] First, the terms used in the following description will be explained.
[0020] CPU refers to the abbreviation of "Central Processing Unit". RAM refers to the abbreviation of "Random Access Memory". ROM refers to the abbreviation of "Read Only Memory". ASIC refers to the abbreviation of "Application Specific Integrated Circuit". PLD refers to the abbreviation of "Programmable Logic Device". FPGA refers to the abbreviation of "Field-Programmable Gate Array".
[0021] For the purposes of the following explanation, in Figure 1, arrow A is considered to point forward, and the side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10 facing forward is referred to as the front side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10. In the following description of the structure of the magnetic tape cartridge 10, "front" refers to the front side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10.
[0022] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity in the following explanation, in Figure 1, the direction of arrow B, which is perpendicular to the direction of arrow A, will be referred to as the right direction, and the right side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10 will be referred to as the right side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10. In the following structural description of the magnetic tape cartridge 10, "right" refers to the right side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10.
[0023] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity in the following explanation, in Figure 1, the direction perpendicular to arrows A and B is indicated by arrow C, the direction of arrow C is considered the upward direction of the magnetic tape cartridge 10, and the upward side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10 is referred to as the upper side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10. In the following structural description of the magnetic tape cartridge 10, "upper" refers to the upper side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10.
[0024] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity in the following explanation, in Figure 1, the direction opposite to the forward direction of the magnetic tape cartridge 10 will be referred to as the rear direction of the magnetic tape cartridge 10, and the side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10 in the rear direction will be referred to as the rear side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10. In the following structural description of the magnetic tape cartridge 10, "rear" refers to the rear side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10.
[0025] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity in the following explanation, in Figure 1, the direction opposite to the upward direction of the magnetic tape cartridge 10 will be referred to as the downward direction of the magnetic tape cartridge 10, and the downward side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10 will be referred to as the lower side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10. In the following structural description of the magnetic tape cartridge 10, "down" refers to the lower side of the magnetic tape cartridge 10.
[0026] As an example, as shown in Figure 1, the magnetic tape cartridge 10 is approximately rectangular in plan view and comprises a box-shaped case 12. The magnetic tape cartridge 10 is an example of a "magnetic tape cartridge" according to the technology of this disclosure. The case 12 is made of a resin such as polycarbonate and comprises an upper case 14 and a lower case 16. The upper case 14 and the lower case 16 are joined by welding (e.g., ultrasonic welding) and screw fastening, with the lower peripheral edge surface of the upper case 14 and the upper peripheral edge surface of the lower case 16 in contact. The joining method is not limited to welding and screw fastening, but may be other joining methods. The case 12 is an example of a "case" according to the technology of this disclosure.
[0027] A cartridge reel 18 is rotatably housed inside the case 12. The cartridge reel 18 comprises a reel hub 18A, an upper flange 18B1, and a lower flange 18B2. The reel hub 18A is formed in a cylindrical shape. The reel hub 18A is the axial center of the cartridge reel 18, its axial direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the case 12, and it is located in the center of the case 12. The upper flange 18B1 and the lower flange 18B2 are each formed in an annular shape. The upper end of the reel hub 18A is fixed to the central part of the upper flange 18B1 in plan view, and the lower end of the reel hub 18A is fixed to the central part of the lower flange 18B2 in plan view. A magnetic tape MT is wound around the outer circumferential surface of the reel hub 18A, and the widthwise ends of the magnetic tape MT are held by the upper flange 18B1 and the lower flange 18B2. The reel hub 18A and the lower flange 18B2 may be molded as a single unit.
[0028] An opening 12B is formed on the rear side of the right wall 12A of case 12. The magnetic tape MT is pulled out through the opening 12B.
[0029] As an example, as shown in Figure 2, an identifier 19 is displayed on the surface of the case 12 of the magnetic tape cartridge 10. In the example shown in Figure 2, the identifier 19 is displayed on the surface of the front wall 12C of the case 12. The identifier 19 also includes a barcode 19A. The barcode 19A is a one-dimensional image that shows information for identifying the magnetic tape cartridge 10 (for example, a serial number assigned by the user for managing the magnetic tape cartridge 10). The identifier 19 is an example of an "identifier" relating to the technology of this disclosure, and the barcode 19A is an example of a "one-dimensional image" relating to the technology of this disclosure.
[0030] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 2, identifier 19 contains string 19B. String 19B is a string that indicates information for identifying the magnetic tape cartridge 10 (for example, a string containing a combination of alphanumeric characters). The display of string 19B allows the user to visually identify the magnetic tape cartridge 10.
[0031] The identifier 19 may be displayed on the case 12 by, for example, attaching a label to the surface of the case 12 with barcode 19A and string 19B printed on it, but this is just one example. The identifier 19 may also be printed directly on the surface of the case 12.
[0032] As an example, as shown in Figure 3, the magnetic tape cartridge 10 is stored in the storage member 20. The storage member 20 is, for example, a cartridge magazine 21. The storage member 20 is an example of a "storage member" according to the technology of this disclosure, and the cartridge magazine 21 is an example of a "magazine for magnetic tape cartridges" according to the technology of this disclosure.
[0033] For the purposes of the following explanation, in Figure 3, the direction of arrow X is considered to be the front direction of the cartridge magazine 21, and the side of the cartridge magazine 21 facing forward is referred to as the front side of the cartridge magazine 21. In the following structural description of the cartridge magazine 21, "front" refers to the front side of the cartridge magazine 21.
[0034] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity in the following explanation, in Figure 3, the direction of arrow Y, which is perpendicular to the direction of arrow X, will be considered the right direction, and the right side of the cartridge magazine 21 will be referred to as the right side of the cartridge magazine 21. In the following structural description of the cartridge magazine 21, "right" refers to the right side of the cartridge magazine 21.
[0035] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity in the following explanation, in Figure 3, the direction perpendicular to the X and Y directions will be indicated by arrow Z, the Z direction will be considered the upward direction of the cartridge magazine 21, and the upward side of the cartridge magazine 21 will be referred to as the upper side of the cartridge magazine 21. In the following explanation of the structure of the cartridge magazine 21, "upper" refers to the upper side of the cartridge magazine 21.
[0036] The cartridge magazine 21 has a housing structure 22 configured to accommodate a magnetic tape cartridge 10 inside. The cartridge magazine 21 has an opening 23. The opening 23 is an example of an "opening" according to the technology of this disclosure.
[0037] The opening 23 is formed by opening one side of the housing structure 22 of the cartridge magazine 21 to the outside. In the example shown in Figure 3, the opening 23 is formed on the front surface 22A of the housing structure 22. The magnetic tape cartridge 10 is inserted into and removed from the cartridge magazine 21 through the opening 23. The housing structure 22 is made of resin, for example, but this is just one example, and it may be made of metal, for example.
[0038] The magnetic tape cartridge 10 is stored in the cartridge magazine 21 with the identifier 19 readable. The identifier 19 is displayed on the side of the opening 23 in the case 12. Here, the side of the opening 23 in the case 12 refers to the surface that is exposed to the outside of the cartridge magazine 21 through the opening 23.
[0039] In the example shown in Figure 3, the magnetic tape cartridge 10 is stored with its front wall 12C, on which the identifier 19 is displayed, exposed to the outside of the cartridge magazine 21. More specifically, the identifier 19 is displayed on the surface of the front wall 12C, which is the side facing the opening 23 in the case 12. The magnetic tape cartridge 10 is stored in the cartridge magazine 21 with its front wall 12C facing the opening 23.
[0040] The cartridge magazine 21 has multiple storage compartments 24 (i.e., cavities). The multiple storage compartments 24 are formed by dividing the inside of the cartridge magazine 21 into multiple sections. In the example shown in Figure 3, nine storage compartments 24 are formed by dividing a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped magnetic tape cartridge 10 into nine sections along the vertical direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction). The storage compartments 24 are an example of a "storage compartment" according to the technology of this disclosure.
[0041] As an example, as shown in Figure 4, the cartridge magazine 21 is capable of storing multiple magnetic tape cartridges 10. In the example shown in Figure 4, nine magnetic tape cartridges 10 are stored in nine storage compartments 24.
[0042] The cartridge magazine 21, containing multiple magnetic tape cartridges 10, is inserted into the magnetic tape library 70 (see Figure 6). This allows multiple magnetic tape cartridges 10 to be inserted into the magnetic tape library 70 at once.
[0043] Incidentally, when shipping and transporting magnetic tape cartridges 10, it is necessary to protect them from impact, dirt, etc. For this reason, each magnetic tape cartridge 10 was individually packaged. In this case, when loading multiple magnetic tape cartridges 10 into the magnetic tape library 70 at once using a cartridge magazine 21, it is first necessary to remove the packaging material from each of the magnetic tape cartridges 10. Then, the magnetic tape cartridges 10 from which the packaging material has been removed are stored in the cartridge magazine 21. In this way, when multiple magnetic tape cartridges 10 are individually packaged, the packaging work and the removal of packaging material work become cumbersome.
[0044] Therefore, in view of these circumstances, in this embodiment, as an example, a packaging body 60 is used, as shown in Figure 5. The packaging body 60 comprises a storage member 20 and a packaging member 61 that covers at least the opening 23 of the storage member 20. The packaging body 60 is an example of a "packaging body" according to the technology of this disclosure.
[0045] As described above, the storage member 20 is, for example, a cartridge magazine 21. The cartridge magazine 21 stores the magnetic tape cartridge 10 in a state in which the identifier 19 is readable.
[0046] The packaging member 61 absorbs shocks and prevents the magnetic tape cartridge 10 from falling out by covering the cartridge magazine 21. The packaging member 61 is a film-like member 62 formed in a film shape. In the example shown in Figure 5, the film-like member 62 covers the entire cartridge magazine 21, but this is merely one example. The film-like member 62 only needs to cover at least the opening 23, and for example, the film-like member 62 may cover only the front surface 22A of the cartridge magazine 21. The packaging member 61 is an example of a "packaging member" according to the technology of this disclosure, and the film-like member 62 is an example of a "film-like member" according to the technology of this disclosure.
[0047] The film-like member 62 is shrunk, for example, while covering the entire cartridge magazine 21. This causes the film-like member 62 to adhere tightly to the cartridge magazine 21. As a result, the magnetic tape cartridge 10 is prevented from falling out of the cartridge magazine 21. One way to make the film-like member 62 adhere tightly to the cartridge magazine 21 is by thermal shrinkage, but this is only one example. For example, the film-like member 62 may be made to adhere tightly by wrapping it around the cartridge magazine 21.
[0048] Furthermore, the film-like member 62 covers the cartridge magazine 21 in a manner that allows the identifier 19 to be read. The film-like member 62 is made of a material that transmits visible light. For example, the film-like member 62 is a polyethylene film. The thickness and physical properties (e.g., stretchability) of the film-like member 62 are not particularly limited and can be set as appropriate without departing from the purpose of the technology of this disclosure.
[0049] As an example, as shown in Figure 6, when a cartridge magazine 21 is inserted into a magnetic tape library 70, the magnetic tape cartridge 10 contained in the packaging 60 is first identified. The magnetic tape cartridge 10 is stored in the cartridge magazine 21 with its identifier 19 readable. The packaging material 61 covers the cartridge magazine 21 with its identifier 19 readable. This makes it possible to identify the magnetic tape cartridge 10 even before removing the packaging material 61.
[0050] For example, a user can identify a magnetic tape cartridge 10 contained in a package 60 by reading the barcode 19A contained in the identifier 19 using a barcode reader. Alternatively, for example, a user can visually identify a magnetic tape cartridge 10 contained in a package 60 based on the string 19B contained in the identifier 19.
[0051] After the magnetic tape cartridge 10 is identified, the film-like member 62 serving as a packaging member 61 is removed from the packaging body 60. Subsequently, the cartridge magazine 21 is inserted into the magnetic tape library 70 through the input opening 71. The magnetic tape library 70 is an example of a "magnetic tape library" according to the technology of this disclosure.
[0052] As an example, as shown in Figure 7, a magnetic tape drive 30 is provided within the magnetic tape library 70. The magnetic tape cartridge 10 is pulled out from the cartridge magazine 21 and loaded into the magnetic tape drive 30. The identifier 19 of the magnetic tape cartridge 10 is read by a reader (not shown), thereby identifying the magnetic tape cartridge 10 to be loaded into the magnetic tape drive 30.
[0053] The magnetic tape drive 30 comprises a transport device 34, a read / write head 36, and a control device 38. A magnetic tape cartridge 10 is loaded into the magnetic tape drive 30. The magnetic tape drive 30 is a device that pulls out the magnetic tape MT from the magnetic tape cartridge 10 and reads and writes recorded information from the pulled-out magnetic tape MT using the read / write head 36 in a linear serpentine manner. In this embodiment, reading and writing recorded information refers to, in other words, recording and reproducing information.
[0054] The control device 38 controls the entire magnetic tape drive 30. In this embodiment, the control device 38 is implemented by an ASIC, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the control device 38 may be implemented by an FPGA. Alternatively, the control device 38 may be implemented by a computer including a CPU, ROM, and RAM. Alternatively, it may be implemented by a combination of two or more of the ASIC, FPGA, PLD, and computer. In other words, the control device 38 may be implemented by a combination of hardware and software configurations.
[0055] The transport device 34 is a device that selectively transports the magnetic tape MT in the forward and reverse directions, and is equipped with a feed motor 40, a take-up reel 42, a take-up motor 44, and a plurality of guide rollers GR.
[0056] The feed motor 40 rotates the cartridge reel 18 inside the magnetic tape cartridge 10 under the control of the control device 38. The control device 38 controls the rotation direction, rotation speed, and rotation torque of the cartridge reel 18 by controlling the feed motor 40.
[0057] The winding motor 44 rotates the winding reel 42 under the control of the control device 38. The control device 38 controls the winding motor 44 to control the rotation direction, rotation speed, and rotation torque of the winding reel 42.
[0058] When the magnetic tape MT is being wound onto the take-up reel 42, the control device 38 rotates the feed motor 40 and the take-up motor 44 to move the magnetic tape MT in the forward direction. On the other hand, when the magnetic tape MT is being rewound onto the cartridge reel 18, the control device 38 rotates the feed motor 40 and the take-up motor 44 to move the magnetic tape MT in the reverse direction. The rotational speed and torque of the feed motor 40 and the take-up motor 44 are adjusted according to the speed at which the magnetic tape MT is being wound onto the take-up reel 42.
[0059] Each of the multiple guide rollers GR is a roller that guides the magnetic tape MT. The travel path of the magnetic tape MT is determined by the multiple guide rollers GR being positioned at locations that straddle the read / write head 36 between the magnetic tape cartridge 10 and the take-up reel 42.
[0060] The read / write head 36 includes a read / write element 46 and a holder 48. The read / write element 46 is held by the holder 48 so as to contact the magnetic tape MT while it is in motion. The read / write element 46 reads recorded information from the magnetic tape MT and records information onto the magnetic tape MT.
[0061] Next, the packaging process according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 shows an example of the packaging process according to this embodiment. Note that the packaging process shown in Figure 8 is an example of a "packaging method" related to the technology of this disclosure.
[0062] As an example, in the packaging process shown in Figure 8, first, in step ST10, the magnetic tape cartridge 10 is stored in the cartridge magazine 21 with the identifier 19 readable. After this, the packaging process proceeds to step ST12.
[0063] In step ST12, at least the opening 23 of the cartridge magazine 21 is covered with the packaging material 61. This completes the packaging process.
[0064] As described above, in the packaging 60 according to this embodiment, the magnetic tape cartridge 10 is stored in the storage member 20, and the identifier 19 displayed on the front wall 12C of the magnetic tape cartridge 10 is in a readable state. Furthermore, the packaging member 61 covers at least the opening 23 of the storage member 20. Accordingly, this configuration makes it easier to package the magnetic tape cartridge 10 or remove the packaging member. For example, compared to the case where multiple magnetic tape cartridges 10 are packaged separately, this configuration makes it easier to package the magnetic tape cartridge 10 or remove the packaging member 61.
[0065] Furthermore, in the packaging body 60 according to this embodiment, the packaging member 61 is a film-like member 62. Therefore, with this configuration, it is possible to package storage members 20 of various shapes with the film-like member 62. For example, compared to the case where the packaging member 61 is a member of a fixed shape, with this configuration, it is possible to package storage members 20 of various shapes.
[0066] Furthermore, in the packaging 60 according to this embodiment, the packaging member 61 covers the storage member 20 in a state where the identifier 19 can be read. Therefore, with this configuration, identification of the magnetic tape cartridge 10 becomes easier even when it is covered by the packaging member 61. For example, compared to the case where the identifier 19 cannot be read through the packaging member 61, identification of the magnetic tape cartridge 10 becomes easier even when it is covered by the packaging member 61.
[0067] Furthermore, in the packaging body 60 according to this embodiment, the packaging member 61 is made of a material that transmits visible light. Therefore, with this configuration, the magnetic tape cartridge 10 can be identified by visual inspection.
[0068] Furthermore, in the packaging 60 according to this embodiment, the storage member 20 is a cartridge magazine 21. Therefore, with this configuration, the cartridge magazine 21, which is the storage member 20, can be directly inserted into the magnetic tape library 70.
[0069] Furthermore, in the packaging 60 according to this embodiment, the storage member 20 has a plurality of storage sections 24 for storing each of the plurality of magnetic tape cartridges 10. Therefore, with this configuration, even when multiple magnetic tape cartridges 10 are stored in the storage sections 24, the packaging work of the plurality of magnetic tape cartridges 10 or the removal work of the packaging member 61 becomes easier. For example, compared to the case where multiple magnetic tape cartridges 10 are packaged separately, the packaging work of the plurality of magnetic tape cartridges 10 or the removal work of the packaging member 61 becomes easier.
[0070] Furthermore, in the packaging 60 according to this embodiment, the identifier 19 is displayed on the side of the opening 23 in the storage member 20 in the case 12 of the magnetic tape cartridge 10. Therefore, this configuration makes it easy to identify the magnetic tape cartridge 10 stored in the storage member 20. For example, compared to the case where the storage member 20 has an opening other than the opening 23 that exposes the identifier 19, it becomes easier to identify the magnetic tape cartridge 10 stored in the storage member 20.
[0071] Furthermore, in the packaging 60 according to this embodiment, the identifier 19 includes a barcode 19A. Therefore, this configuration makes it easier to identify the magnetic tape cartridge 10. For example, it becomes easier to identify the magnetic tape cartridge 10 compared to the case where the identifier 19 consists only of a string of characters.
[0072] (Variation 1) In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the packaging member 61 is a film-like member 62, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. In this first modified example, the packaging member 61 is a lid-like member 63. The lid-like member 63 is an example of a "lid-like member" according to the technology of this disclosure.
[0073] As an example, as shown in Figure 9, the packaging body 60 includes a lid-shaped member 63 as a packaging member 61. The lid-shaped member 63 is formed to be detachably attached to the storage member 20. The lid-shaped member 63 covers the opening 23 by being attached to the front surface 22A of the storage member 20. In the example shown in Figure 9, the lid-shaped member 63 is placed over the storage member 20 from the front surface 22A side. This prevents the magnetic tape cartridge 10 from falling out of the storage member 20.
[0074] Furthermore, the lid-like member 63 covers the cartridge magazine 21 in a manner that allows the identifier 19 to be read. The lid-like member 63 is made of a material that transmits visible light. For example, the lid-like member 63 is made of acrylic resin, but this is merely one example, and the material of the lid-like member 63 should be selected considering the required strength and processability of the lid-like member 63. In addition, the thickness and shape of the lid-like member 63 can be set as appropriate without departing from the purpose of the technology of this disclosure, and are not particularly limited.
[0075] When removing the packaging of the magnetic tape cartridge 10, the lid-shaped member 63, which serves as a packaging member 61, is removed from the packaging body 60. Subsequently, the cartridge magazine 21 is inserted into the magnetic tape library 70 (see Figure 6) through the input opening 71 (see Figure 6).
[0076] As explained above, in the modified packaging 60, the packaging member 61 is a lid-shaped member 63. Therefore, this configuration makes it easier to package the magnetic tape cartridge 10 or remove the packaging member 61. For example, compared to a case where the packaging member 61 is processed or the area covered by the packaging member 61 is adjusted each time packaging is performed, the packaging of the magnetic tape cartridge 10 or the removal of the packaging member 61 becomes easier.
[0077] (Modification 2) In the above embodiment, the case in which the packaging member 61 consists only of a film-like member 62 was described, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. In this second modified example, a film-like member 62 and a lid-like member 63 are used as the packaging member 61.
[0078] As an example, as shown in Figure 10, the packaging body 60 includes a film-like member 62 and a lid-like member 63 as packaging members 61. In the example shown in Figure 10, the storage member 20 is entirely covered by the film-like member 62. Furthermore, the lid-like member 63 is placed over the storage member 20 from the front side 22A.
[0079] As described above, in the modified packaging 60, the packaging members 61 are a film-like member 62 and a lid-like member 63. Therefore, this configuration makes it easier to package the magnetic tape cartridge 10 or remove the packaging members. For example, compared to the case where multiple magnetic tape cartridges 10 are packaged separately, this configuration makes it easier to package the magnetic tape cartridge 10 or remove the packaging members 61.
[0080] (Variation 3) In the above embodiment, the storage member 20 was described with an example having a housing structure 22, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. In this third modification, the storage member 20 has a gripping portion 25 (i.e., a grip) provided on the housing structure 22.
[0081] As an example, as shown in Figure 11, an opening 23 is formed on the front surface 22A of the housing structure 22 of the storage member 20. Furthermore, a gripping portion 25 is provided on the right surface 22B adjacent to the front surface 22A of the housing structure 22. The front surface 22A is an example of the "first surface" according to the technology of this disclosure, and the right surface 22B is an example of the "second surface" according to the technology of this disclosure.
[0082] The gripping portion 25 is located in the center of the right side 22B of the housing structure 22. In the example shown in Figure 11, the gripping portion 25 is a handle whose upper and lower ends are attached to the housing structure 22 and whose middle portion can be gripped. The user moves the storage member 20 via the gripping portion 25. In addition, while gripping the gripping portion 25, the user can visually identify the identifier 19 of the magnetic tape cartridge 10 stored in the storage member 20 from the front side 22A.
[0083] As described above, in the modified packaging 60, a gripping portion 25 is provided on the right side 22B adjacent to the opening 23 of the storage member 20. Therefore, this configuration makes it easier to identify the magnetic tape cartridge 10. For example, compared to the case where the gripping portion 25 of the storage member 20 is on the side opposite to the front side 22A where the opening 23 is provided (i.e., the rear side), it becomes easier for the user to identify the magnetic tape cartridge 10 while gripping the gripping portion.
[0084] In this modified example, the gripping portion 25 is described as being provided on the right side surface 22B, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited to this. The gripping portion 25 may be provided on the left side or on the top surface of the housing structure 22.
[0085] (Modification 4) In the above embodiment, an example was given in which a barcode 19A is displayed as the identifier 19, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. In this fourth modification, a two-dimensional matrix image 19C is displayed instead of a barcode 19A as the identifier 19.
[0086] As an example, as shown in Figure 12, an identifier 19 is displayed on the surface of the case 12 of the magnetic tape cartridge 10. In the example shown in Figure 12, the identifier 19 is displayed on the surface of the front wall 12C of the case 12. The identifier 19 also includes a two-dimensional matrix image 19C. The two-dimensional matrix image 19C is a two-dimensional image that shows information for identifying the magnetic tape cartridge 10 (for example, a serial number assigned by the user for managing the magnetic tape cartridge 10). The two-dimensional matrix image 19C is an example of a "two-dimensional matrix image" relating to the technology of this disclosure.
[0087] As explained above, in the modified packaging 60, the identifier 19 includes a two-dimensional matrix image 19C. Therefore, this configuration makes it easier to identify the magnetic tape cartridge 10. For example, it becomes easier to identify the magnetic tape cartridge 10 compared to the case where the identifier 19 consists only of a string of characters.
[0088] In this modified example, the identifier 19 is described as including a two-dimensional matrix image 19C, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the identifier 19 may include a barcode 19A together with the two-dimensional matrix image 19C. Alternatively, the identifier 19 may include a dot code instead of, or together with, the two-dimensional matrix image 19C and the barcode 19A.
[0089] In the above embodiments and their modifications, the storage member 20 has been described as an example in which it is a cartridge magazine 21, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the storage member 20 may be a dedicated housing for transporting magnetic tape cartridges 10.
[0090] Furthermore, in the above embodiments and their respective modifications, the storage member 20 has been described with an example in which it is provided with a plurality of storage sections 24 in the vertical direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction as shown in Figure 3, etc.), but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. The storage member 20 may also be provided with a plurality of storage sections 24 in the left-right direction (i.e., the Y-axis direction as shown in Figure 3, etc.) as well as the vertical direction.
[0091] Furthermore, although the above embodiments and their variations have been described using examples in which magnetic tape cartridges 10 are stored in all of the multiple storage compartments 24, the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. The magnetic tape cartridges 10 may be stored in only some of the multiple storage compartments 24. In this case, the packaging member 61 does not need to cover the entire opening 23, but only needs to cover the area of the opening 23 corresponding to the storage compartment 24 in which the magnetic tape cartridges 10 are stored.
[0092] The descriptions and illustrations presented above are detailed explanations of the technical aspects of this disclosure and are merely examples of the technical aspects. For example, the above descriptions of the structure, function, operation, and effect are examples of the structure, function, operation, and effect of the technical aspects of this disclosure. Therefore, it goes without saying that you may delete unnecessary parts, add new elements, or replace elements in the descriptions and illustrations presented above, as long as you do not deviate from the essence of the technical aspects of this disclosure. Furthermore, in order to avoid confusion and facilitate understanding of the technical aspects of this disclosure, explanations of common technical knowledge and the like that do not require special explanation to enable the implementation of the technical aspects of this disclosure have been omitted from the descriptions and illustrations presented above.
[0093] In this specification, "A and / or B" is synonymous with "at least one of A and B." That is, "A and / or B" means that it may be A alone, or B alone, or a combination of A and B. Furthermore, in this specification, the same concept as "A and / or B" applies when expressing three or more things linked by "and / or."
[0094] All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual document, patent application, and technical standard were specifically and individually noted as being incorporated by reference. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0095] 10 Magnetic Tape Cartridges 12 cases 12A Right wall 12B opening 12C front wall 14 Upper case 16 Lower case 18 cartridge reels 18A Reel Hub 18B1 Upper flange 18B2 Lower flange 19 Identifiers 19A Barcode 19B string 19th Century Two-Dimensional Matrix Image 20 Storage member 21 Cartridge Magazine 22. Enclosure structure 22A front 22B Right side 23 Opening 24 Storage Unit 25 Gripping part 30 Magnetic Tape Drives 34 Conveying device 36 Read / Write Heads 38 Control device 40 Sending motor 42 Reel 44 Rewinding motor 46 Read / Write elements 48 holder 60 packages 61 Packaging materials 62 Film-like member 63 Lid-shaped member 70 Magnetic Tape Library 71 Inlet GR Guide Roller MT magnetic tape
Claims
1. A magnetic tape cartridge having a case with an identifier displayed on its surface, A storage member having an opening through which the magnetic tape cartridge is inserted and removed, and in which the magnetic tape cartridge is stored in a state in which the identifier of the magnetic tape cartridge is readable, The storage member comprises a packaging member that covers at least the opening, The packaging member is a film-like member that is translucent and formed in a film-like manner. Packaging.
2. The packaging member is a lid-shaped member that is detachably formed with respect to the storage member. The packaging body according to claim 1.
3. The packaging member covers the storage member in a manner that allows the identifier to be read. The packaging body according to claim 1 or claim 2.
4. The packaging member is formed of a material that transmits visible light. The packaging body described in claim 3.
5. The storage member is a magazine for magnetic tape cartridges, formed to be inserted into a magnetic tape library. A packaging body according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
6. The packaging comprises a plurality of the magnetic tape cartridges, The storage member has a plurality of storage compartments for storing each of the plurality of magnetic tape cartridges. A packaging body according to any one of claims 1 to 5.
7. The identifier is displayed on the opening side of the case. A packaging body according to any one of claims 1 to 6.
8. The identifier includes a one-dimensional image and / or a two-dimensional matrix image. A packaging body according to any one of claims 1 to 7.
9. The aforementioned storage member is The first surface on which the opening is formed, Adjacent to the first surface is a second surface on which a gripping portion is provided, has A packaging body according to any one of claims 1 to 8.
10. By inserting a magnetic tape cartridge having a case on which an identifier is displayed on the surface through an opening, the magnetic tape cartridge is stored in the storage member in a state in which the identifier is readable, and This includes covering at least the opening of the storage member with a packaging member, The packaging member is a film-like member that is translucent and formed in a film-like manner. Packing method.