Magnetic tape management device, magnetic tape cartridge, magnetic tape, magnetic tape system, magnetic tape management method, and program

Abstract

To provide a magnetic tape management device which can manage the quality of a magnetic tape, a magnetic tape cartridge, a magnetic tape, a magnetic tape system, a magnetic tape management method, and a program.SOLUTION: A magnetic tape management device includes a processor. The processor acquires the temperature and humidity of environment in which the magnetic tape is stored, derives specific enthalpy using the temperature and humidity, and performs management processing on the magnetic tape according to the specific enthalpy.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to a magnetic tape management device, a magnetic tape cartridge, a magnetic tape, a magnetic tape system, a magnetic tape management method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a temperature management device including a storage unit that stores measurement information including a temperature measured in a predetermined space and a measurement time of the temperature, and a temperature management unit that extracts a minimum temperature that is the lowest temperature among the temperatures included in the measurement information of the predetermined space stored in the storage unit and determines a temperature range to be maintained in the predetermined space based on the minimum temperature among a plurality of different temperature ranges.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0004] One embodiment of the technology of the present disclosure provides a magnetic tape management device, a magnetic tape cartridge, a magnetic tape, a magnetic tape system, a magnetic tape management method, and a program capable of managing the quality of a magnetic tape.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A first aspect of the technology of the present disclosure is a magnetic tape management device including a processor, the processor acquiring the temperature and humidity of an environment where a magnetic tape is stored, deriving a specific enthalpy using the temperature and humidity, and performing management processing on the magnetic tape according to the specific enthalpy.

[0006] A second aspect of the technology of the present disclosure is the magnetic tape management device according to the first aspect, wherein the management processing is a process according to a statistical value of the specific enthalpy.

[0007] A third aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape management device according to the second aspect, wherein the processor derives specific enthalpy for each of a plurality of periods, and the statistical value is the statistical value of the specific enthalpy derived for each of the plurality of periods.

[0008] A fourth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape management device according to the third aspect, wherein multiple periods are defined at regular time intervals.

[0009] A fifth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape management device relating to any one of the second to fourth aspects, wherein the statistical value is the cumulative value of specific enthalpy.

[0010] A sixth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape management device according to any one of the second to fifth aspects, wherein the management process includes a first output process that outputs information that can identify that the statistical value has exceeded a first threshold when the statistical value exceeds a first threshold.

[0011] A seventh aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape management device according to the sixth aspect, wherein the first threshold is a value determined according to the amount of width deformation of the magnetic tape.

[0012] An eighth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape management device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the magnetic tape has first data recorded on it, and the management process includes a backup process that saves the first data to a medium different from the magnetic tape.

[0013] A ninth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape management device relating to any one of the second to seventh aspects referenced in the eighth aspect, wherein the processor performs a save operation when the statistical value exceeds a second threshold and before it reaches a third threshold.

[0014] A tenth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape management device according to the ninth aspect, wherein at least the third threshold among the second and third thresholds is a value determined according to the amount of width deformation of the magnetic tape.

[0015] An eleventh aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape management device relating to any one of the following aspects: the second to seventh aspects, the second aspect referenced in the eighth aspect, the third aspect referenced in the eighth aspect, the fourth aspect referenced in the eighth aspect, the fifth aspect referenced in the eighth aspect, the sixth aspect referenced in the eighth aspect, the seventh aspect referenced in the eighth aspect, the ninth aspect, and the tenth aspect, wherein the management process includes a second output process that outputs information relating to statistical values.

[0016] A twelfth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape management device according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, wherein a magnetic tape cartridge containing a magnetic tape is stored in an environment.

[0017] A thirteenth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape management device according to the twelfth aspect, in which a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges are stored in an environment.

[0018] A fourteenth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape cartridge comprising a first storage medium on which the results of management processing performed by a magnetic tape management device according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects are stored.

[0019] A fifteenth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape on which the results of management processing performed by a magnetic tape management device according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects are recorded.

[0020] A sixteenth aspect of the technology of this disclosure is a magnetic tape system comprising a second storage medium in which the results of management processing performed by a magnetic tape management device according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects are stored, and a control device that operates based on the results stored in the second storage medium.

[0021] A 17th aspect according to the technology of the present disclosure is a magnetic tape system according to a 16th aspect, which includes a magnetic tape management device according to any one of the 1st to 13th aspects.

[0022] An 18th aspect according to the technology of the present disclosure is a magnetic tape system according to a 17th aspect, which includes a rack in which a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each accommodating a plurality of magnetic tapes managed by a magnetic tape management device can be inserted and removed.

[0023] A 19th aspect according to the technology of the present disclosure is a magnetic tape management method including acquiring the temperature and humidity of an environment where a magnetic tape is stored, deriving a specific enthalpy using the temperature and humidity, and performing management processing on the magnetic tape according to the specific enthalpy.

[0024] A 20th aspect according to the technology of the present disclosure is a program for causing a computer to execute a process including acquiring the temperature and humidity of an environment where a magnetic tape is stored, deriving a specific enthalpy using the temperature and humidity, and performing management processing on the magnetic tape according to the specific enthalpy.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a magnetic tape system. [Figure 2] It is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the appearance of a magnetic tape cartridge. [Figure 3] It is a schematic configuration diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a magnetic tape drive. [Figure 4] It is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a magnetic tape drive. [Figure 5] It is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the relative relationship between a magnetic tape and a magnetic head when the magnetic head records data on a data band or reproduces a signal of the data band while traveling on the magnetic tape. [Figure 6]This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of how magnetic tape is observed from the surface side of the magnetic tape before and after its width shrinks. [Figure 7] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of how a magnetic head is observed from the surface side of a magnetic tape when it is skewed. [Figure 8] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the configuration of a magnetic tape library and a library controller. [Figure 9] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the processing content of the acquisition and derivation units. [Figure 10] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the processing content of the derivation section. [Figure 11] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the processing performed by the control unit. [Figure 12] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the output processing performed by the control unit. [Figure 13] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the output processing performed by the control unit. [Figure 14] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the output processing performed by the control unit. [Figure 15] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the processing steps involved in the evacuation procedure performed by the control unit. [Figure 16] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the processing steps involved in the off-track reduction process performed by the control unit. [Figure 17A] This flowchart shows an example of the system control process flow. [Figure 17B] This is a continuation of the flowchart shown in Figure 17A. [Figure 18] This is a conceptual diagram showing a first modified example of the output processing performed by the control unit. [Figure 19] This is a conceptual diagram showing a second modified example of the output processing performed by the control unit. [Figure 20] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of how a magnetic tape cartridge is handled when it is temporarily located outside the magnetic tape library. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of a magnetic tape management device, magnetic tape cartridge, magnetic tape, magnetic tape system, magnetic tape management method, and program relating to the technology of this disclosure will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0027] First, let's explain the terminology used in the following explanation.

[0028] CPU stands for "Central Processing Unit". NVM stands for "Non-volatile memory". RAM stands for "Random Access Memory". EEPROM stands for "Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory". SSD stands for "Solid State Drive". HDD stands for "Hard Disk Drive". I / F stands for "Interface". ASIC stands for "Application Specific Integrated Circuit". FPGA stands for "Field-Programmable Gate Array". PLC stands for "Programmable Logic Controller". SoC stands for "System-on-a-chip". IC stands for "Integrated Circuit". RFID stands for "Radio Frequency Identifier". BOT stands for "Beginning Of Tape". EOT stands for "End Of Tape". UI stands for "User Interface". WAN stands for "Wide Area Network". LAN stands for "Local Area Network". USB stands for "Universal Serial Bus". TDS stands for "Transverse Dimensional Stability".

[0029] As an example, as shown in Figure 1, the magnetic tape system 10 includes a magnetic tape library 12 and a library management device 14. The library management device 14 is electrically connected to the magnetic tape library 12 and controls the entire magnetic tape system and manages the magnetic tape library 12.

[0030] The magnetic tape library 12 comprises multiple magnetic tape cartridges 16, multiple magnetic tape drives 18, and a rack 20. Each of the multiple magnetic tape cartridges 16 contains a magnetic tape MT.

[0031] Each of the multiple magnetic tape drives 18 has a magnetic tape cartridge 16 that can be inserted into and removed from it. The multiple magnetic tape drives 18 are electrically connected to a library management device 14. When a magnetic tape cartridge 16 is loaded into a magnetic tape drive 18, the magnetic tape drive 18 pulls out the magnetic tape MT from the magnetic tape cartridge 16 and runs it under the control of the library management device 14. Then, under the control of the library management device 14, the magnetic tape drive 18 selectively records data to the magnetic tape MT and reads data from the magnetic tape MT (i.e., plays it back) while the magnetic tape MT is running.

[0032] The rack 20 houses multiple magnetic tape cartridges 16 that can be easily inserted and removed. The rack 20 is also provided with multiple cartridge housing cells 22, multiple drive housing cells 24, and a transport mechanism 26.

[0033] In this embodiment, the magnetic tape system 10 is an example of a "magnetic tape system" according to the technology of this disclosure. Also in this embodiment, the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is an example of a "magnetic tape cartridge" according to the technology of this disclosure. Also in this embodiment, the magnetic tape MT is an example of a "magnetic tape" according to the technology of this disclosure.

[0034] Each cartridge storage cell 22 is sized to accommodate one magnetic tape cartridge 16, and each cartridge storage cell 22 contains one magnetic tape cartridge 16. The cartridge storage cells 22 are arranged in a grid. In the example shown in Figure 1, the cartridge storage cells 22 are arranged in a grid of 15 rows and 5 columns. Although Figure 1 shows a grid of 15 rows and 5 columns of cartridge storage cells 22, this is merely one example, and there may be multiple cartridge storage cells 22. Also, although Figure 1 shows an example of the cartridge storage cells 22 being arranged in a grid, this is also merely one example, and other arrangement methods may be used. Furthermore, although Figure 1 shows one rack 20 as an example, this is also merely one example, and there may be multiple racks 20. In this case as well, for example, each rack 20 may be provided with multiple cartridge storage cells 22, multiple drive storage cells 24, and a transport mechanism 26.

[0035] In Figure 1, as indicated by the double arrow 28, the direction on the upper side of the front view of Figure 1 is considered upward, and the direction on the lower side of the front view of Figure 1 is considered downward. Also, as indicated by the double arrow 30, the direction on the left side of the front view of Figure 1 is considered left, and the direction on the right side of the front view of Figure 1 is considered right.

[0036] In the example shown in Figure 1, each row of the cartridge storage cell 22 is numbered 1 to 15 from top to bottom in Figure 1, and each column of the cartridge storage cell 22 is numbered a to e from left to right in Figure 1. Each cartridge storage cell 22 is assigned a unique cell identifier. The location of each cartridge storage cell 22 within the rack 20 is identified by the cell identifier. The cell identifier is information that includes a combination of row number and column symbol. For example, the cartridge storage cell 22 located in the first row of the first column is assigned the cell identifier "a1".

[0037] Each cartridge housing cell 22 is equipped with an environmental sensor 31. The environmental sensor 31 measures temperature and humidity. The environmental sensor 31 is installed inside the drive housing cell 24. The position in which the environmental sensor 31 is installed inside the drive housing cell 24 is, for example, a position that is most likely to have an influence of temperature and humidity on the magnetic tape MT inside the magnetic tape cartridge 16 housed in the drive housing cell 24, and this position is determined in advance through actual machine testing and / or computer simulation.

[0038] Each drive housing cell 24 houses one magnetic tape drive 18. In the example shown in Figure 1, each of the four drive housing cells 24 arranged vertically houses one magnetic tape drive 18. Although there are four drive housing cells 24 in the example shown in Figure 1, the technology of this disclosure is not limited to this, and the number of drive housing cells 24 can be one or more. Furthermore, the multiple drive housing cells 24 may be arranged in a grid pattern in the vertical and horizontal directions, or in a linear pattern in the horizontal direction.

[0039] The transport mechanism 26 is electrically connected to the library management device 14. Under the control of the library management device 14, the transport mechanism 26 inserts and removes magnetic tape cartridges 16 into and out of each cartridge storage cell 22, transports magnetic tape cartridges 16 between each cartridge storage cell 22 and each magnetic tape drive 18, and inserts and removes magnetic tape cartridges 16 into and out of each magnetic tape drive 18.

[0040] The transport mechanism 26 comprises an upper bar 26A, a lower bar 26B, a pair of horizontally movable robots 26C, a vertical bar 26D, and a vertically movable robot 26E. The upper bar 26A is fixed to the top of the rack 20 so as to extend horizontally. The lower bar 26B is fixed to the bottom of the rack 20 parallel to the upper bar 26A.

[0041] A pair of horizontally movable robots 26C are attached to both ends of the vertical bar 26D. The pair of horizontally movable robots 26C are fitted onto the upper bar 26A and the lower bar 26B. The horizontally movable robots 26C are self-propelled robots that can move along the horizontal direction. The horizontally movable robots 26C move the vertical bar 26D horizontally along the upper bar 26A and the lower bar 26B while keeping the orientation of the vertical bar 26D perpendicular to the orientation of the upper bar 26A and the lower bar 26B. The vertically movable robot 26E is attached to the vertical bar 26D. The vertically movable robot 26E is a self-propelled robot that can move along the vertical direction. That is, the vertically movable robot 26E moves vertically along the vertical bar 26D. The vertically movable robot 26E is provided with a gripping part (not shown) for gripping the magnetic tape cartridge 16.

[0042] The library management device 14 comprises a library controller 32, a reception device 34, and a display 36. The reception device 34, the display 36, and the magnetic tape library 12 are electrically connected to the library controller 32. The reception device 34 has a keyboard 34A, a mouse 34B, a touch panel 34C, etc., and receives instructions from the user 38.

[0043] The library controller 32 operates according to instructions received by the reception device 34. For example, the library controller 32 controls the display 36 according to instructions received by the reception device 34. The display 36 displays various information such as text information and images under the control of the library controller 32. Also, for example, the library controller 32 obtains various data from the magnetic tape library 12 by issuing various commands to the magnetic tape library 12 according to instructions received by the reception device 34, and manages the magnetic tape library 12 using the obtained data.

[0044] Next, an example of the configuration of the magnetic tape cartridge 16 will be described with reference to Figure 2. For the sake of clarity, in the following explanation, in Figures 2 and 3, the loading direction of the magnetic tape cartridge 16 into the magnetic tape drive 18 is indicated by arrow A, the direction of arrow A is considered the front direction of the magnetic tape cartridge 16, and the side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16 facing forward is referred to as the front side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16. In the following description of the structure, "front" refers to the front side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16.

[0045] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity in the following explanation, in Figures 2 and 3, 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 16 will be referred to as the right side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16. In the following description of the structure, "right" refers to the right side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16.

[0046] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity in the following explanation, in Figures 2 and 3, the direction opposite to the direction of arrow B will be referred to as the left direction, and the left side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16 will be referred to as the left side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16. In the following description of the structure, "left" refers to the left side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16.

[0047] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity in the following explanation, in Figures 2 and 3, 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 16, and the upward side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is referred to as the upper side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16. In the following description of the structure, "upper" refers to the upper side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16.

[0048] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity in the following explanation, in Figures 2 and 3, the direction opposite to the forward direction of the magnetic tape cartridge 16 will be referred to as the rear direction of the magnetic tape cartridge 16, and the side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16 in the rear direction will be referred to as the rear side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16. In the following description of the structure, "rear" refers to the rear side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16.

[0049] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity in the following explanation, in Figures 2 and 3, the direction opposite to the upward direction of the magnetic tape cartridge 16 will be referred to as the downward direction of the magnetic tape cartridge 16, and the downward side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16 will be referred to as the lower side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16. In the following description of the structure, "down" refers to the lower side of the magnetic tape cartridge 16.

[0050] As an example, as shown in Figure 2, the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is approximately rectangular in plan view and comprises a flattened, box-shaped case 40. The case 40 houses the magnetic tape MT. The case 40 is made of a resin such as polycarbonate and comprises an upper case 42 and a lower case 44. The upper case 42 and the lower case 44 are joined by welding (e.g., ultrasonic welding) and screw fastening, with the lower peripheral edge surface of the upper case 42 and the upper peripheral edge surface of the lower case 44 in contact. The joining method is not limited to welding and screw fastening; other joining methods may also be used.

[0051] A discharge reel 46 is rotatably housed inside the case 40. The discharge reel 46 comprises a reel hub 46A, an upper flange 46B1, and a lower flange 46B2. The reel hub 46A is formed in a cylindrical shape. The reel hub 46A is the axial center of the discharge reel 46, its axial direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the case 40, and it is located in the center of the case 40. The upper flange 46B1 and the lower flange 46B2 are each formed in an annular shape. The upper end of the reel hub 46A is fixed to the central part of the upper flange 46B1 in plan view, and the lower end of the reel hub 46A is fixed to the central part of the lower flange 46B2 in plan view. The reel hub 46A and the lower flange 46B2 may be integrally molded.

[0052] A magnetic tape MT is wound around the outer surface of the reel hub 46A, and the widthwise ends of the magnetic tape MT are held by the upper flange 46B1 and the lower flange 46B2.

[0053] An opening 40B is formed on the front side of the right wall 40A of case 40. The magnetic tape MT is pulled out through the opening 40B.

[0054] A cartridge memory 48 is provided in the lower case 44. Specifically, the cartridge memory 48 is housed in the right rear end of the lower case 44. The cartridge memory 48 is equipped with an IC chip having an NVM. In this embodiment, a so-called passive RFID tag is used as the cartridge memory 48, and various types of information are read and written to the cartridge memory 48 without contact. In this embodiment, an example is given in which the cartridge memory 48 is provided in the lower case 44, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited to this, and the cartridge memory 48 only needs to be provided in the case 40 in a position where various types of information can be read and written without contact.

[0055] The cartridge memory 48 stores management information 50. The management information 50 is information for managing the magnetic tape cartridge 16. For example, the management information 50 includes information about the case 40, information about the cartridge memory 48, information about the magnetic tape drive 18, and information about the magnetic tape MT contained in the magnetic tape cartridge 16.

[0056] The reading and writing of management information 50 to the cartridge memory 48 is performed contactlessly by a contactless read / write device 52. The contactless read / write device 52 emits a magnetic field MF to the cartridge memory 48 and communicates with the cartridge memory 48 contactlessly via the magnetic field MF, thereby writing management information 50 to the cartridge memory 48 and reading management information 50 from the cartridge memory 48.

[0057] As an example, as shown in Figure 3, the magnetic tape drive 18 includes a control device 54, a transport device 56, a magnetic head 58, and an external I / F 60.

[0058] A magnetic tape cartridge 16 is loaded into the magnetic tape drive 18 along the direction of arrow A. The magnetic tape MT is pulled out from the magnetic tape cartridge 16 and used by the magnetic tape drive 18. The magnetic tape drive 18 controls the entire magnetic tape drive 18 (for example, the transport device 56 and the magnetic head 58, etc.) using management information 50 (see Figure 2) stored in the cartridge memory 48.

[0059] The magnetic tape MT has a magnetic layer 62A, a base film 62B, and a back coat layer 62C. The magnetic layer 62A is formed on one side of the base film 62B, and the back coat layer 62C is formed on the other side of the base film 62B. Data is recorded on the magnetic layer 62A. The magnetic layer 62A contains ferromagnetic powder. As the ferromagnetic powder, for example, a ferromagnetic powder commonly used in the magnetic layer of various magnetic recording media is used. A preferred specific example of the ferromagnetic powder is hexagonal ferrite powder. Examples of hexagonal ferrite powder include hexagonal strontium ferrite powder or hexagonal barium ferrite powder. The back coat layer 62C is a layer containing non-magnetic powder such as carbon black. The base film 62B is also called a support and is formed of, for example, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, or polyamide. A non-magnetic layer may be formed between the base film 62B and the magnetic layer 62A. In a magnetic tape MT, the surface on which the magnetic layer 62A is formed is the surface 64 of the magnetic tape MT, and the surface on which the back coat layer 62C is formed is the back surface 66 of the magnetic tape MT.

[0060] The magnetic tape drive 18 performs magnetic processing on the surface 64 of the magnetic tape MT using a magnetic head 58 while the magnetic tape MT is running. Here, magnetic processing refers to recording data on the surface 64 of the magnetic tape MT and reading data from the surface 64 of the magnetic tape MT (i.e., reproducing data). In this embodiment, the magnetic tape drive 18 selectively performs data recording on the surface 64 of the magnetic tape MT and data reading from the surface 64 of the magnetic tape MT using a magnetic head 58. That is, the magnetic tape drive 18 pulls out the magnetic tape MT from the magnetic tape cartridge 16, and uses the magnetic head 58 to record data on the surface 64 of the pulled-out magnetic tape MT or to read data from the surface 64 of the pulled-out magnetic tape MT using a magnetic head 58.

[0061] The control device 54 controls the entire magnetic tape drive 18. In this embodiment, the control device 54 is implemented by an ASIC, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the control device 54 may be implemented by an FPGA and / or a PLC. Alternatively, the control device 54 may be implemented by a computer including a CPU, flash memory (e.g., EEPROM and / or SSD, etc.), and RAM. Furthermore, the control device 54 may be implemented by a combination of two or more of the ASIC, FPGA, PLC, and computer. That is, the control device 54 may be implemented by a combination of hardware and software configurations.

[0062] The external interface 60 is connected to the control unit 54. The external interface 60 is also connected to the library controller 32 via a communication network such as a WAN and / or LAN. An example of the external interface 60 is a USB interface. The external interface 60 is responsible for the exchange of various types of information between the control unit 54 and the library controller 32 (for example, recording data for the magnetic tape MT, data read from the magnetic tape MT, and / or signals given to the control unit 54).

[0063] The traveling device 56 is a device that selectively travels the magnetic tape MT along a predetermined path in the forward and reverse directions, and includes a feed motor 68, a take-up reel 70, a take-up motor 72, and a plurality of guide rollers GR. Here, the forward direction refers to the direction in which the magnetic tape MT is fed out, and the reverse direction refers to the direction in which the magnetic tape MT is rewound.

[0064] The feed motor 68 rotates the feed reel 46 inside the magnetic tape cartridge 16 under the control of the control device 54. The control device 54 controls the direction of rotation, rotation speed, and rotation torque of the feed reel 46 by controlling the feed motor 68.

[0065] The winding motor 72 rotates the winding reel 70 under the control of the control device 54. The control device 54 controls the winding motor 72 to control the rotation direction, rotation speed, and rotation torque of the winding reel 70.

[0066] When the magnetic tape MT is being wound onto the take-up reel 70, the control device 54 rotates the feed motor 68 and the take-up motor 72 so that the magnetic tape MT travels forward along a predetermined path. The rotational speed and torque of the feed motor 68 and the take-up motor 72 are adjusted according to the speed at which the magnetic tape MT is wound onto the take-up reel 70. Furthermore, tension is applied to the magnetic tape MT by adjusting the rotational speed and torque of the feed motor 68 and the take-up motor 72, respectively, as controlled by the control device 54. The tension applied to the magnetic tape MT is controlled by adjusting the rotational speed and torque of the feed motor 68 and the take-up motor 72, respectively, as controlled by the control device 54.

[0067] When rewinding the magnetic tape MT onto the feed reel 46, the control device 54 rotates the feed motor 68 and the take-up motor 72 so that the magnetic tape MT travels in the reverse direction along a predetermined path.

[0068] In this embodiment, the tension applied to the magnetic tape MT is controlled by controlling the rotational speed and rotational torque of the delivery motor 68 and the winding motor 72, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the tension applied to the magnetic tape MT may be controlled using a dancer roller, or it may be controlled by pulling the magnetic tape MT into a vacuum chamber.

[0069] Each of the multiple guide rollers GR is a roller that guides the magnetic tape MT. The predetermined path, that is, the travel path of the magnetic tape MT, is determined by the arrangement of the multiple guide rollers GR in positions that straddle the magnetic head 58 between the magnetic tape cartridge 16 and the take-up reel 70.

[0070] The magnetic head 58 comprises a magnetic element unit 74 and a holder 76. The magnetic element unit 74 is held by the holder 76 so as to be in contact with the magnetic tape MT in motion. The magnetic element unit 74 has a plurality of magnetic elements.

[0071] The magnetic element unit 74 records data on the magnetic tape MT that the traveling device 56 is moving along a predetermined path, and reads data from the magnetic tape MT that the traveling device 56 is moving along a predetermined path.

[0072] In the magnetic tape drive 18, the non-contact read / write device 52 is positioned on the underside of the magnetic tape cartridge 16 when the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is loaded, facing the back surface 48A of the cartridge memory 48. The non-contact read / write device 52 is electrically connected to the control device 54. Under the control of the control device 54, the non-contact read / write device 52 reads and writes information (for example, management information 50 (see Figure 2)) to the cartridge memory 48 without contact.

[0073] As an example, as shown in Figure 4, the magnetic tape drive 18 is equipped with a moving mechanism 78. The moving mechanism 78 has a moving actuator 78A. An example of a moving actuator 78A is a voice coil motor and / or a piezo actuator. The moving actuator 78A is connected to a control device 54, which controls the moving actuator 78A. The moving actuator 78A generates power under the control of the control device 54. The moving mechanism 78 receives the power generated by the moving actuator 78A to move the magnetic head 58 in the width direction of the magnetic tape MT.

[0074] The magnetic tape drive 18 is equipped with a tilt mechanism 80. The tilt mechanism 80 has a tilt actuator 80A. An example of a tilt actuator 80A is a voice coil motor and / or a piezo actuator. The tilt actuator 80A is connected to a control device 54, which controls the tilt actuator 80A. The tilt actuator 80A generates power under the control of the control device 54. By receiving the power generated by the tilt actuator 80A, the tilt mechanism 80 tilts the magnetic head 58 toward the longitudinal direction of the magnetic tape MT with respect to the width direction of the magnetic tape MT. That is, the magnetic head 58 skews on the magnetic tape MT as power is supplied from the tilt mechanism 80 under the control of the control device 54.

[0075] As an example, as shown in Figure 5, the surface 64 of the magnetic tape MT has servo bands SB1, SB2, and SB3, and data bands DB1 and DB2 formed thereon. For the sake of explanation, unless otherwise necessary, servo bands SB1 to SB3 will be referred to as servo bands SB, and data bands DB1 and DB2 will be referred to as data bands DB.

[0076] The servo bands SB1 to SB3 and the data bands DB1 and DB2 are formed along the longitudinal direction LD (i.e., the overall length direction) of the magnetic tape MT. Here, the overall length direction of the magnetic tape MT refers to the direction in which the magnetic tape MT travels. The direction in which the magnetic tape MT travels is defined by two directions: the forward direction (hereinafter also simply referred to as the "forward direction"), which is the direction in which the magnetic tape MT travels from the delivery reel 46 side to the take-up reel 70 side, and the reverse direction (hereinafter also simply referred to as the "reverse direction"), which is the direction in which the magnetic tape MT travels from the take-up reel 70 side to the delivery reel 46 side.

[0077] The servo bands SB1 to SB3 are arranged at spaced-out positions in the width direction WD (hereinafter also simply referred to as "width direction WD") of the magnetic tape MT. For example, the servo bands SB1 to SB3 are arranged at equal intervals along the width direction WD. In this embodiment, "equal intervals" refers not only to perfectly equal intervals but also to equal intervals that include errors that are generally acceptable in the art to which the disclosed technology belongs and that do not contradict the spirit of the disclosed technology.

[0078] Data band DB1 is positioned between servo band SB1 and servo band SB2, and data band DB2 is positioned between servo band SB2 and servo band SB3. In other words, servo bands SB and data bands DB are arranged alternately along the width direction WD.

[0079] In the example shown in Figure 5, for the sake of explanation, three servo bands SB and two data bands DB are shown. However, this is merely an example, and the technology of this disclosure can also be established with two servo bands SB and one data band DB, or with four or more servo bands SB and three or more data bands DB.

[0080] Multiple servo patterns 82 are recorded in the servo band SB along the longitudinal direction LD of the magnetic tape MT. The multiple servo patterns 82 are arranged at regular intervals along the longitudinal direction LD of the magnetic tape MT. In this embodiment, "regular" refers not only to perfect regularity but also to regularity that includes errors that are generally acceptable in the art to which the present invention belongs and that do not contradict the spirit of the present invention.

[0081] The magnetic head 58 is positioned on the surface 64 side of the magnetic tape MT configured in this way. The holder 76 is formed in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped and is positioned to traverse the surface 64 of the magnetic tape MT along the width direction WD. The multiple magnetic elements of the magnetic element unit 74 are arranged linearly along the longitudinal direction of the holder 76. The magnetic element unit 74 has a pair of servo reading elements SR and a plurality of data reading / writing elements DRW as multiple magnetic elements. The length of the holder 76 in the longitudinal direction is sufficiently long compared to the width of the magnetic tape MT. For example, the length of the holder 76 in the longitudinal direction is set to exceed the width of the magnetic tape MT regardless of the position of the magnetic element unit 74 on the magnetic tape MT.

[0082] The magnetic head 58 is equipped with a pair of servo reading elements SR. In the magnetic head 58, the relative positional relationship between the holder 76 and the pair of servo reading elements SR is fixed. The pair of servo reading elements SR consists of servo reading elements SR1 and SR2. Servo reading element SR1 is located at one end of the magnetic element unit 74, and servo reading element SR2 is located at the other end of the magnetic element unit 74. In the example shown in Figure 5, servo reading element SR1 is located at a position corresponding to servo band SB2, and servo reading element SR2 is located at a position corresponding to servo band SB3.

[0083] Multiple data read / write elements DRW are arranged linearly between servo read element SR1 and servo read element SR2. Multiple data read / write elements DRW are arranged at intervals along the longitudinal direction of holder 76 (for example, at equal intervals along the longitudinal direction of holder 76). In the example shown in Figure 5, multiple data read / write elements DRW are provided at positions corresponding to data band DB2.

[0084] The control device 54 acquires a servo pattern signal, which is the result of reading the servo pattern 82 by the servo reading element SR while the magnetic tape MT is traveling in the forward or reverse direction, and performs servo control according to the acquired servo pattern signal. Here, servo control refers to the control that moves the magnetic head 58 in the width direction WD of the magnetic tape MT by operating the movement mechanism 78 according to the servo pattern 82 read by the servo reading element SR.

[0085] Through servo control, multiple data read / write elements (DRWs) are positioned over a designated area within the data band DB, and in this state, magnetic processing is performed on the designated area within the data band DB. In the example shown in Figure 5, magnetic processing is performed on a designated area within the data band DB2 by multiple data read / write elements (DRWs).

[0086] Furthermore, when the data band DB targeted for data reading by the magnetic element unit 74 is changed (in the example shown in Figure 5, when the data band DB targeted for data reading by the magnetic element unit 74 is changed from data band DB2 to data band DB1), the moving mechanism 78 changes the position of the pair of servo reading elements SR by moving the magnetic head 58 in the width direction WD under the control of the control device 54. Specifically, the moving mechanism 78 moves the magnetic head 58 in the width direction WD to move the servo reading element SR1 to a position corresponding to servo band SB1, and moves the servo reading element SR2 to a position corresponding to servo band SB2. As a result, the positions of the multiple data reading / writing elements DRW are changed from data band DB2 to data band DB1, and magnetic processing is performed on data band DB1 by the multiple data reading / writing elements DRW.

[0087] In the example shown in Figure 5, the data recorded in the databand DB is shown as the first data 84. In other words, multiple data read / write elements DRWs record the first data 84 in parallel in the databand DB, and multiple data read / write elements DRWs read the first data 84 from the databand DB in parallel. The first data 84 is an example of the "first data" related to the technology of this disclosure.

[0088] Incidentally, in recent years, research has been progressing on technologies to reduce the effects of TDS. TDS is affected by temperature, humidity, tension and pressure applied when the magnetic tape MT is wound around reels (for example, various reels such as the output reel 46), and deterioration over time. If no countermeasures are taken, the TDS will increase, causing misalignment of the data read / write element DRW relative to the tracks in the data band DB when magnetic processing is performed on the data band DB. This can prevent accurate reproduction of the first data 84 recorded in the data band DB (i.e., reproduction failure occurs). Furthermore, if the misalignment of the data read / write element DRW relative to the tracks becomes large, off-track occurs, making it impossible to reproduce the first data 84 recorded in the data band DB (i.e., reproduction of the first data 84 recorded in the data band DB before the off-track condition occurred). If an off-track occurs, it not only affects the playback of the first data 84, but there is also concern that the first data 84 may be mistakenly recorded on an existing track (for example, a track that should not be overwritten) when recording and / or appending to an adjacent track in the databand DB.

[0089] The example shown in Figure 6 illustrates a scenario in which the width of the magnetic tape MT shrinks over time. In this case, playback failures and / or off-tracks of the first data 84 are likely to occur. Playback failures and off-tracks, as referred to here, are phenomena that occur when the data read / write element DRW is not located on a designated track among multiple tracks present in the data band DB (i.e., in the width direction WD, the position of the designated track and the position of the data read / write element DRW are misaligned).

[0090] The width of the magnetic tape MT may expand, and in this case, it will also become off-track. That is, if the width of the magnetic tape MT shrinks or expands over time, the position of the servo reading element SR relative to the servo pattern 82 will deviate in the width direction WD from the design-defined default position (i.e., the design-defined default position relative to the servo pattern 82). When the position of the servo reading element SR relative to the servo pattern 82 deviates in the width direction WD from the design-defined default position, the accuracy of the servo control decreases, and the position of the track in the data band DB and the data read / write element DRW become misaligned. As a result, magnetic processing will not be performed on the track that was originally intended.

[0091] As a method to reduce the effects of TDS, for example, as shown in Figure 7, a method is known in which the position of the servo reading element SR relative to the servo pattern 82 is maintained at a predetermined position as determined by the design by skewing the magnetic head 58 on the magnetic tape MT. Another method known to reduce the effects of TDS is to adjust the tension applied to the magnetic tape MT.

[0092] The magnetic head 58 is equipped with a rotation axis RA. The rotation axis RA is located at a position corresponding to the center of the magnetic element unit 74 included in the magnetic head 58 in a plan view. The magnetic head 58 is rotatably held by the tilting mechanism 80 via the rotation axis RA. In this embodiment, the operation of tilting the magnetic head 58 with respect to the width direction WD by rotating the magnetic head 58 on the surface 64 along the surface 64 with the rotation axis RA as the central axis is referred to as "skew".

[0093] The magnetic head 58 is provided with a virtual straight line C1, which is a virtual center line. The virtual straight line C1 is a straight line that passes through the rotation axis RA and extends in the longitudinal direction of the holder 76 in a plan view (i.e., the direction in which the multiple data read / write elements DRW are arranged). The magnetic head 58 is positioned in a tilted position along the surface 64 with respect to the width direction WD (in other words, the virtual straight line C1 is tilted along the surface 64 with respect to the virtual straight line C2, which is a virtual straight line along the width direction WD). In the example shown in Figure 7, the magnetic head 58 is held by the tilting mechanism 80 such that the virtual straight line C1 is tilted toward the longitudinal direction LD of the magnetic tape MT with respect to the virtual straight line C2. Also in the example shown in Figure 7, the magnetic head 58 is held by the tilting mechanism 80 in a position where the virtual straight line C1 is tilted toward the feed reel 46 side with respect to the virtual straight line C2 (i.e., tilted counterclockwise when viewed from the front side of the paper in Figure 7). The angle formed by the virtual line C1 and the virtual line C2 corresponds to the angle at which the magnetic head 58 is tilted with respect to the width direction WD by rotating the magnetic head 58 along the surface 64 with the rotation axis RA as the central axis. In the following, the angle formed by the virtual line C1 and the virtual line C2 will also be referred to as the "skew angle" or the "skew angle of the magnetic head 58".

[0094] The tilting mechanism 80 receives power from the tilting actuator 80A (see Figure 4) to rotate the magnetic head 58 on the surface 64 of the magnetic tape MT about the rotation axis RA. Under the control of the control device 54, the tilting mechanism 80 rotates the magnetic head 58 on the surface 64 of the magnetic tape MT about the rotation axis RA, thereby changing the direction and angle of the inclination (i.e., azimuth) of the virtual straight line C1 with respect to the virtual straight line C2.

[0095] The direction and angle of the inclination of the virtual straight line C1 relative to the virtual straight line C2, i.e., the skew angle, are changed in accordance with temperature, humidity, the tension and pressure applied when the magnetic tape MT is wound onto the reel, and deterioration over time, or the resulting expansion and contraction of the width direction WD of the magnetic tape MT, thereby maintaining the position of the servo reading element SR relative to the servo pattern 82 at a predetermined position as defined by the design. In this case, it is on-track. On-track refers to a state in which the data read / write element DRW is located on a specified track among multiple tracks present in the data band DB (i.e., in the width direction WD, the position of the specified divided data track and the position of the data read / write element DRW coincide).

[0096] Incidentally, creep is considered to be the main cause of TDS (i.e., the main cause of width changes in magnetic tape MT). For example, creep refers to the phenomenon in which the deformation of magnetic tape MT (for example, the deformation of the width direction WD of magnetic tape MT) increases over time due to the sustained effects of environmental influences on the magnetic tape MT.

[0097] The creep amount, that is, the amount of deformation in the width direction WD of the magnetic tape MT (hereinafter also referred to as "width deformation"), increases or decreases depending on the temperature and humidity of the environment in which the magnetic tape MT is stored. Here, the first example of the environment is a space filled with ordinary air (i.e., air containing oxygen and nitrogen at a certain pressure on Earth, so-called atmosphere) as a gas containing moisture. The second example of the environment is a space filled with a gas containing the same or different components as the atmosphere (for example, a space in which gases such as nitrogen and / or argon are additionally sealed). Furthermore, the pressure of the gas in the environment in which the magnetic tape MT is stored may be any pressure as long as it does not damage the magnetic tape MT.

[0098] In environments generally described as high temperature and high humidity, the amount of width deformation tends to be greater than in environments generally described as normal temperature and humidity. Temperature and humidity can fluctuate due to factors such as day and night or season. And the amount of width deformation fluctuates as a result of fluctuations in temperature and humidity. This fact was known qualitatively, but the extent of the quantitative effect was unknown. Therefore, currently, magnetic tape (MT) management that reflects the effects of temperature and humidity fluctuations in the amount of width deformation is not adequately performed.

[0099] Creep is dependent on temperature and humidity. Therefore, one possible method for managing the width deformation of magnetic tape (MT) is to monitor both temperature and humidity and manage the width deformation based on the monitoring results. However, monitoring two parameters, temperature and humidity, and managing the width deformation while individually considering the effect of each parameter on the width deformation is more time-consuming than managing the width deformation while considering the effect of only one parameter, temperature or humidity. Also, while monitoring only one parameter, temperature or humidity, is less time-consuming than monitoring two parameters, the accuracy of managing the width deformation will be lower.

[0100] In light of these circumstances, the inventors conducted diligent research and found that there is a dependence between the creep phenomenon and specific enthalpy. Since specific enthalpy is a single parameter, it is easier to handle than the two parameters of temperature and humidity. Therefore, managing the width deformation using specific enthalpy is more efficient than managing the width deformation using the two parameters of temperature and humidity. Furthermore, specific enthalpy includes elements of temperature and humidity. Therefore, managing the width deformation using specific enthalpy is more accurate than managing the width deformation while considering the influence of one parameter, temperature or humidity, on the width deformation. Accordingly, the magnetic tape system 10 according to this embodiment performs management processing on the magnetic tape MT according to the specific enthalpy in the environment in which the magnetic tape MT is stored. A detailed explanation follows below.

[0101] As an example, as shown in Figure 8, the library controller 32 includes a processor 86, an NVM 88, RAM 90, and an external I / F 92. The processor 86, NVM 88, RAM 90, and external I / F 92 are connected to a bus 94. In this embodiment, the processor 86 is an example of a "processor" according to the technology of this disclosure. Also, in this embodiment, the library controller 32 is an example of a "magnetic tape management device" and a "computer" according to the technology of this disclosure.

[0102] The processor 86 controls the entire magnetic tape system 10. An example of the processor 86 is one or more CPUs. The NVM 88 is a non-temporary storage medium that stores various parameters and programs. For example, the NVM 88 is an EEPROM. However, this is just one example, and other types of non-volatile memory may be used. The RAM 90 temporarily stores various information and is used as work memory.

[0103] The external interface 92 is connected to the transport mechanism 26. The processor 86 controls the transport mechanism 26 via the external interface 92. Under the control of the processor 86, the transport mechanism 26 moves the horizontally moving robot 26C (see Figure 1) and the vertically moving robot 26E (see Figure 1). This allows the transport mechanism 26 to selectively perform loading operations and storage operations. Loading operations refer to the operation of removing a magnetic tape cartridge 16 from a cartridge storage cell 22 designated by the processor 86 and loading the removed magnetic tape cartridge 16 into a magnetic tape drive 18 designated by the processor 86. Storage operations refer to the operation of removing a magnetic tape cartridge 16 loaded in the magnetic tape drive 18 and storing the removed magnetic tape cartridge 16 back into the original cartridge storage cell 22. When loading or storage operations are completed, the transport mechanism 26 returns to its home position according to instructions from the processor 86.

[0104] External I / F92 is connected to external I / F60 of the magnetic tape drive 18. The processor 86 of the library controller 32 controls the magnetic tape drive 18 via external I / F92. This allows the magnetic tape drive 18 to read first data 84 from the magnetic tape MT, record first data 84 onto the magnetic tape MT, and read from and write to the cartridge memory 48. The processor 86 acquires various data, including first data 84 (see Figures 5 to 7), from the control device 54 of the magnetic tape drive 18 via external I / F92.

[0105] The external interface 92 is connected to multiple environmental sensors 31 (for example, all environmental sensors 31 in the magnetic tape library 12, or multiple environmental sensors 31 specified by the user 38, etc.). The processor 86 of the library controller 32 acquires the temperature 98 and humidity 100 measured by each environmental sensor 31 via the external interface 92.

[0106] The external I / F 92 is connected to the external storage device 96. The external storage device 96 is a storage device installed outside the library controller 32. An example of the external storage device 96 is a non-volatile storage device such as an SSD or HDD. The external storage device 96 may also be a magnetic tape drive different from the magnetic tape drive 18 (for example, a magnetic tape drive loaded with magnetic tape MTs other than those contained in the magnetic tape library 12). Furthermore, the external storage device 96 may be a combination of multiple types of storage devices.

[0107] The NVM88 stores a system control program PG. The system control program PG is an example of a "program" related to the technology of this disclosure. The processor 86 reads the system control program PG from the NVM88 and executes the read system control program PG on the RAM90. The processor 86 performs system control processing by operating as an acquisition unit 86A, an output unit 86B, and a control unit 86C according to the system control program PG executed on the RAM90. An example of system control processing will be described below.

[0108] As an example, as shown in Figure 9, the acquisition unit 86A determines whether or not the timing for acquiring temperature 98 and humidity 100 from the designated environmental sensor 31 (hereinafter referred to as the "acquisition timing") has arrived. An example of an acquisition timing is a timing defined at a fixed time interval (for example, 1 hour) between several tens of minutes and several hours. Note that the fixed time interval specified between several tens of minutes and several hours is merely an example, and may be a time interval divided into seconds, days, months, seasons, or years.

[0109] When the acquisition unit 86A determines that the acquisition timing has arrived, it acquires the temperature 98 and humidity 100 measured by the environmental sensor 31 as the temperature and humidity of the environment in which the magnetic tape MT is stored (i.e., the cartridge housing cell 22). Although the temperature 98 and humidity 100 are acquired by the acquisition unit 86A from each of the environmental sensors 31, here, in order to facilitate understanding of the technology of this disclosure, we will focus on one environmental sensor 31 and explain an example in which the temperature 98 and humidity 100 are acquired by the acquisition unit 86A from one environmental sensor 31. Furthermore, the example in which the temperature 98 and humidity 100 are acquired by the acquisition unit 86A from all of the environmental sensors 31 is merely an example, and the temperature 98 and humidity 100 may be acquired by the acquisition unit 86A from one or more designated environmental sensors 31 out of all of the environmental sensors 31.

[0110] The derivation unit 86B derives the specific enthalpy 102 using the temperature 98 and humidity 100 acquired by the acquisition unit 86A. The derivation of the specific enthalpy 102 is achieved by using a calculation formula or a table. In this embodiment, the specific enthalpy 102 is calculated using a calculation formula. In the example shown in Figure 9, the specific enthalpy 102 is calculated by the derivation unit 86B from calculation formula 104. For example, calculation formula 104 is the following formula (1). In formula (1), "H" is the specific enthalpy 102, "Td" is the temperature (e.g., dry-bulb temperature), and "x" is the humidity (e.g., absolute humidity). The unit of Td is "℃", the unit of humidity is "kg / kg(DA)", and the unit of H is "kJ / kg(DA)". Here, we have given an example of how to determine the specific enthalpy 102 using formula (1), but this is merely one example. For example, the specific enthalpy 102 can also be determined from the measured dry-bulb temperature and wet-bulb temperature using a psychrometric chart.

[0111] H=1.006Td+(1.86Td+2501)x...(1)

[0112] As an example, as shown in Figure 10, the derivation unit 86B calculates the specific enthalpy 102 for each of the multiple periods and derives a statistical value of the specific enthalpy 102 calculated for each of the multiple periods. In the example shown in Figure 10, the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102 is shown as an example of a statistical value of the specific enthalpy 102. The multiple periods are defined by fixed time intervals. The fixed time interval is a time interval (for example, 1 hour) delimited by the acquisition timing (see Figure 9) used by the acquisition unit 86A. The derivation unit 86B calculates the specific enthalpy 102 for each of the multiple periods, and calculates the cumulative value 106 by accumulating the most recently calculated specific enthalpy 102 each time it is calculated. In the example shown in Figure 10, the cumulative value 106 up to the Nth period is shown when N is a natural number greater than or equal to 1, and the accumulation of specific enthalpy 102 is performed from the second period onward.

[0113] As an example, as shown in Figure 11, the control unit 86C performs management processing 108 and off-track reduction processing 110. Management processing 108 is a process that manages the magnetic tape MT according to the specific enthalpy 102 (see Figures 9 and 10). In this embodiment, management processing 108 is performed as a process corresponding to the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102 (see Figure 10). Off-track reduction processing 110 is a process that reduces playback defects and / or off-tracks with respect to the magnetic tape MT. In this embodiment, off-track reduction processing 110 is performed as a process corresponding to the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102 (see Figure 10).

[0114] The management process 108 includes the output process 108A and the backup process 108B. In this embodiment, the management process 108 is an example of the "management process" relating to the technology of this disclosure. In this embodiment, the output process 108A is an example of the "first output process" and the "second output process" relating to the technology of this disclosure. In this embodiment, the backup process 108B is an example of the "backup process" relating to the technology of this disclosure. Below, examples of the processing contents of the management process 108 and the off-track reduction process 110 will be described. Figures 12 to 14 show an example of the processing contents of the output process 108A included in the management process 108. Figure 15 shows an example of the processing contents of the backup process 108B included in the management process 108. Figure 16 shows an example of the processing contents of the off-track reduction process 110.

[0115] As an example, as shown in Figure 12, the control unit 86C acquires the latest cumulative value 106 calculated by the derivation unit 86B and determines whether the latest cumulative value 106 exceeds the first threshold. The first threshold is a value determined according to the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT. For example, the first threshold is a value derived in advance by actual machine testing and / or computer simulation, etc., as the cumulative value 106 corresponding to the upper limit of the width deformation amount at which playback defects and / or off-tracks do not occur. Furthermore, the first threshold may be a fixed value, or it may be a variable value that is changed according to instructions received by the reception device 34 and / or various conditions given to the magnetic tape system 10.

[0116] The control unit 86C selectively outputs the first information 112 and the second information 113 depending on the result of determining whether the latest cumulative value 106 has exceeded the first threshold. That is, the control unit 86C outputs the first information 112 if the latest cumulative value 106 has not exceeded the first threshold, and outputs the second information 113 if the latest cumulative value 106 has exceeded the first threshold.

[0117] For example, the output destination for the first information 112 and the second information 113 is the NVM 88. That is, the first information 112 and the second information 113 are selectively stored in the NVM 88 by the control unit 86C. Here, the NVM 88 is given as an example of the output destination for the first information 112 and the second information 113, but this is merely an example, and the output destination for the first information 112 and / or the second information 113 may be the external storage device 96, the display 36, or something else. In this embodiment, the storage medium to which the results of the management processing 108 (here, as an example, output processing 108A) performed by the control unit 86C are stored, such as the NVM 88 and the external storage device 96, is an example of the "first storage medium" and "second storage medium" related to the technology of this disclosure.

[0118] The first piece of information 112 is information that associates the latest cumulative value 106 with the magnetic tape specific identifier 114. The second piece of information 113 is information that associates the latest cumulative value 106 with the magnetic tape specific identifier 114 with the first threshold exceedance information 115.

[0119] The magnetic tape identifier 114 refers to an identifier that identifies the magnetic tape MT. The magnetic tape identifier 114 associated with the cumulative value 106 is an identifier that identifies the magnetic tape MT corresponding to the environmental sensor 31 from which the temperature 98 and humidity 100 used to calculate the latest specific enthalpy 101 were measured. The magnetic tape MT corresponding to the environmental sensor 31 refers to the magnetic tape MT of the magnetic tape cartridge 16 housed in the cartridge housing cell 22 in which the environmental sensor 31 is installed. In this embodiment, a magnetic tape cartridge 16 to be housed in the cartridge housing cell 22 is defined for each cartridge housing cell 22, and there is a one-to-one correspondence between the cartridge housing cell 22 and the magnetic tape cartridge 16. This means that there is a one-to-one correspondence between the cartridge housing cell 22 and the magnetic tape MT housed in the magnetic tape cartridge 16. In this embodiment, the magnetic tape identifier 114 is assigned to each cartridge housing cell 22. In this case, for example, the magnetic tape specific identifier 114 assigned to the cartridge housing cell 22 in which the environmental sensor 31 measuring temperature 98 and humidity 100 is installed is acquired by the acquisition unit 86A or the derivation unit 86B at the same time that the temperature 98 and humidity 100 are acquired by the acquisition unit 86A.

[0120] The first threshold exceedance information 115 is information that can identify that the latest cumulative value 106 has exceeded the first threshold. In this embodiment, the second information 113 itself, or the magnetic tape specific identifier 114, the first threshold exceedance information 115, and / or the cumulative value 106 contained in the second information 113 are examples of "statistical value information" relating to the technology of this disclosure.

[0121] With the second information 113 stored in the NVM88, if a lifetime prediction value display instruction is received by the reception device 34, as shown in Figure 13 as an example, the control unit 86C retrieves the second information 113 from the NVM88. Here, the lifetime prediction value display instruction refers to an instruction to display the predicted lifetime value of the magnetic tape MT, which is identified from the magnetic tape specific identifier 114 contained in the second information 113 in the NVM88, on the display 36.

[0122] The control unit 86C generates a life prediction screen 116 based on the second information 113 acquired from the NVM 88, and displays the generated life prediction screen 116 on the display 36. The life prediction screen 116 is a screen in which the magnetic tape specific identifier 114 included in the second information 113 and the predicted remaining life (hereinafter referred to as "predicted remaining life") for the magnetic tape MT identified from the magnetic tape specific identifier 114 are associated on a one-to-one basis. The predicted remaining life is derived by the control unit 86C from a calculation formula or table. In this embodiment, the predicted remaining life is calculated by the control unit 86C from a calculation formula in which the cumulative value 106 is the independent variable and the predicted remaining life corresponding to the cumulative value 106 is the dependent variable. The predicted remaining life corresponding to the cumulative value 106 is the life predicted from the cumulative value 106 as the remaining life of the magnetic tape MT. For example, the predicted remaining life corresponding to the cumulative value 106 may be the life derived in advance by actual machine testing using the cumulative value 106 and / or computer simulation using the cumulative value 106.

[0123] With the second information 113 stored in the NVM88, the control unit 86C determines, as shown in Figure 14 as an example, whether or not the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is loaded into the magnetic tape drive 18. If the control unit 86C determines that the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is loaded into the magnetic tape drive 18, it retrieves the second information 113 from the NVM88. The control unit 86C then outputs the second information 113 retrieved from the NVM88 to the cartridge memory 48 of the magnetic tape drive 18. In other words, the control unit 86C controls the contactless read / write device 52 via the control device 54 of the magnetic tape drive 18 to store the second information 113 retrieved from the NVM88 as part of the management information 50 (see Figure 2) in the cartridge memory 48 of the magnetic tape drive 18. In other words, the contactless read / write device 52 stores the second information 113 retrieved from the NVM88 by the control unit 86C in the cartridge memory 48 according to instructions from the control unit 86C. The cartridge memory 48, like the NVM 88 and the external storage device 96, is an example of the "first storage medium" and "second storage medium" related to the technology of this disclosure.

[0124] As an example, as shown in Figure 15, when the control unit 86C performs the retraction process 108B, the control unit 86C first obtains the latest second information 113 from the NVM 88. The control unit 86C determines whether the cumulative value 106 included in the latest second information 113 obtained from the NVM 88 exceeds the second threshold and is less than the third threshold (i.e., whether the relationship "third threshold > cumulative value 106 > second threshold" holds true). The third threshold is a value greater than the second threshold. The second and third thresholds, like the first threshold, are values ​​determined according to the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT. For example, the second threshold is a value greater than or equal to the first threshold. Also, for example, the third threshold is a value derived in advance by actual machine testing and / or computer simulation, etc., as the cumulative value 106 corresponding to the lower limit of the width deformation amount when the life of the magnetic tape MT is reached. The second threshold and / or third threshold may be fixed values ​​or variable values ​​that are changed according to the instructions received by the receiving device 34 and / or the various conditions given to the magnetic tape system 10.

[0125] If the relationship “third threshold > cumulative value 106 > second threshold” is met, the control unit 86C controls and operates the transport mechanism 26 to load the magnetic tape cartridge 16 containing the magnetic tape MT identified by the magnetic tape identification identifier 114 associated with the cumulative value 106 into the magnetic tape drive 18. The control unit 86C controls the magnetic tape drive 18 to cause the magnetic head 58 of the magnetic tape drive 18 to read the first data 84 from the magnetic tape MT in the magnetic tape cartridge 16. The control unit 86C acquires the first data 84 read by the magnetic head 58 via the control device 54 of the magnetic tape drive 18. Then, the control unit 86C stores the first data 84 acquired from the magnetic tape MT in the magnetic tape drive 18 into the external storage device 96, which is a different medium from the magnetic tape MT in the magnetic tape drive 18, thereby saving the first data 84 from the magnetic tape MT in the magnetic tape drive 18 to the external storage device 96.

[0126] As an example, as shown in Figure 16, when off-track reduction processing is performed by the control unit 86C, first, the control unit 86C determines whether or not the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is loaded into the magnetic tape drive 18. Next, if the control unit 86C determines that the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is loaded into the magnetic tape drive 18, it obtains a cumulative value 106 from the latest second information 113 stored in the NVM 88, provided that a magnetic processing execution instruction has been received by the reception device 34. Here, a magnetic processing execution instruction refers to an instruction to cause the magnetic head 58 to perform magnetic processing on the surface 64 of the magnetic tape MT in the magnetic tape cartridge 16 loaded into the magnetic tape drive 18.

[0127] Next, the control unit 86C adjusts the skew angle and the tension applied to the magnetic tape MT based on the cumulative value 106 obtained from the second information 113. In this case, the control unit 86C derives the skew angle and the tension applied to the magnetic tape MT based on the cumulative value 106 obtained from the second information 113. The skew angle is derived using a calculation formula or a table. Here, for example, the skew angle is calculated by the control unit 86C from a skew angle calculation formula in which the cumulative value 106 is the independent variable and the skew angle corresponding to the cumulative value 106 is the dependent variable. An example of a skew angle corresponding to the cumulative value 106 is a skew angle that can be realized by OnTrack, which is derived in advance by actual machine testing using the cumulative value 106 and / or computer simulation using the cumulative value 106. The tension applied to the magnetic tape MT is also derived using a calculation formula or a table. Here, for example, the tension is calculated by the control unit 86C from a tension calculation formula in which the cumulative value 106 is the independent variable and the tension corresponding to the cumulative value 106 is the dependent variable. An example of the tension corresponding to the cumulative value 106 is a tension that OnTrack can achieve, which is a tension derived in advance through actual machine testing using the cumulative value 106 and / or computer simulations using the cumulative value 106.

[0128] The control unit 86C adjusts the skew angle θ of the magnetic head 58 by controlling the tilt mechanism 80 via the control device 54 of the magnetic tape drive 18 so that the skew angle θ of the magnetic head 58 becomes the skew angle calculated from the skew angle calculation formula. The control unit 86C also adjusts the tension applied to the magnetic tape MT by controlling the feed motor 68 and the take-up motor 72 so that the tension applied to the magnetic tape MT becomes the tension calculated from the tension calculation formula. In this embodiment, the library controller 32 having a processor 86 that operates as the control unit 86C that performs the off-track reduction process shown in Figure 16 is an example of a "control device that operates based on results stored in a second storage medium" according to the technology of this disclosure. Furthermore, although an example in which both skew angle adjustment and tension adjustment are performed has been described here, this is merely an example, and only one of the skew angle adjustment or tension adjustment may be performed.

[0129] Next, an example of the flow of system control processing performed by the processor 86 of the library controller 32 will be explained with reference to the flowcharts shown in Figures 17A and 17B. The example of the flow of system control processing identified from the flowcharts shown in Figures 17A and 17B is an example of a "magnetic tape management method" related to the technology of this disclosure.

[0130] In the system control process shown in Figure 17A, first, in step ST10, the acquisition unit 86A determines whether or not the acquisition timing has arrived (see Figure 9). If the acquisition timing has not arrived in step ST10, the determination is denied, and the determination in step ST10 is repeated. If the acquisition timing has arrived in step ST10, the determination is affirmed, and the system control process proceeds to step ST12.

[0131] In step ST12, the acquisition unit 86A acquires the temperature 98 and humidity 100 measured by the environmental sensor 31 (see Figure 9). After the processing in step ST12 is completed, the system control process moves to step ST14.

[0132] In step ST14, the derivation unit 86B calculates the specific enthalpy 102 using the calculation formula 104 from the temperature 98 and humidity 100 obtained in step ST12 (see Figure 9). After the processing in step ST14 is completed, the system control process moves to step ST16.

[0133] In step ST16, the derivation unit 86B determines whether the current time is in the second period or later. If, in step ST16, the current time is not in the second period or later (i.e., the current time is in the first period), the determination is denied, and the system control process proceeds to step ST10. If, in step ST16, the current time is in the second period or later, the determination is affirmed, and the system control process proceeds to step ST18.

[0134] In step ST18, the derivation unit 86B calculates the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102 calculated in step ST14 (see Figure 10). After the processing in step ST18 is executed, the system control process moves to step ST20.

[0135] In step ST20, the control unit 86C determines whether the cumulative value 106 calculated in step ST18 exceeds the first threshold (see Figure 12). If, in step ST20, the cumulative value 106 calculated in step ST18 does not exceed the first threshold, the determination is denied, and the system control process proceeds to step ST22. If, in step ST20, the cumulative value 106 calculated in step ST18 exceeds the first threshold, the determination is affirmed, and the system control process proceeds to step ST24.

[0136] In step ST22, the control unit 86C generates first information 112 by associating the cumulative value 106 calculated in step ST18 with the magnetic tape specific identifier 114, and stores the generated first information 112 in the NVM 88 (see Figure 12). The magnetic tape specific identifier 114 associated with the cumulative value 106 is an identifier that identifies the magnetic tape MT of the magnetic tape cartridge 16 housed in the cartridge housing cell 22 where the environmental sensor 31 that measured the latest temperature 98 and humidity 100 acquired in step ST12 is installed. After the processing in step ST22 is executed, the system control processing moves to step ST10.

[0137] In step ST24, the control unit 86C generates second information 113 by associating the cumulative value 106 calculated in step ST18 with the magnetic tape specific identifier 114 (i.e., the magnetic tape specific identifier 114 obtained in the same manner as the magnetic tape specific identifier 114 used in step ST22) and the first threshold exceedance information 115. Then, the control unit 86C stores the generated second information 113 in the NVM 88 (see Figure 12). After the processing in step ST26 is executed, the system control processing proceeds to step ST26.

[0138] In step ST26, the control unit 86C determines whether or not the instruction to display the predicted lifespan value has been received by the receiving device 34. If the instruction to display the predicted lifespan value has not been received by the receiving device 34 in step ST26, the determination is denied, and the system control process proceeds to step ST32 shown in Figure 17B. If the instruction to display the predicted lifespan value has been received by the receiving device 34 in step ST26, the determination is affirmed, and the system control process proceeds to step ST28.

[0139] In step ST28, the control unit 86C obtains the second information 113 from the NVM 88 (see Figure 13). After the processing in step ST28 is completed, the system control process proceeds to step ST30.

[0140] In step ST30, the control unit 86C generates a life prediction screen 116 based on the second information 113 acquired in step ST28, and displays the generated life prediction screen 116 on the display 36 (see Figure 13). After the processing in step ST30 is completed, the system control process proceeds to step ST32 shown in Figure 17B.

[0141] In step ST32 shown in Figure 17B, the control unit 86C determines whether or not a magnetic tape cartridge 16 is loaded into the magnetic tape drive 18 (see Figure 14). If, in step ST32, the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is not loaded into the magnetic tape drive 18, the determination is denied, and the system control process proceeds to step ST38. If, in step ST32, the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is loaded into the magnetic tape drive 18, the determination is affirmed, and the system control process proceeds to step ST34.

[0142] In step ST34, the control unit 86C obtains the second information 113 from the NVM 88 (see Figure 14). After the processing in step ST34 is completed, the system control process proceeds to step ST36.

[0143] In step ST36, the control unit 86C controls the contactless read / write device 52 via the control device 54 of the magnetic tape drive 18 to store the second information 113 acquired in step ST34 in the cartridge memory 48 (see Figure 14). After the processing in step ST36 is completed, the system control processing proceeds to step ST38.

[0144] In step ST38, the control unit 86C obtains the latest second information 113 from the NVM 88 (see Figure 15). After the processing in step ST38 is completed, the system control process proceeds to step ST40.

[0145] In step ST40, the control unit 86C determines whether the cumulative value 106 included in the latest second information 113 acquired in step ST38 exceeds the second threshold and is less than the third threshold (see Figure 15). In step ST40, if the cumulative value 106 included in the latest second information 113 acquired in step ST38 exceeds the second threshold and is not less than the third threshold, the determination is denied and the system control process proceeds to step ST44. In step ST40, if the cumulative value 106 included in the latest second information 113 acquired in step ST38 exceeds the second threshold and is less than the third threshold, the determination is affirmed and the system control process proceeds to step ST42.

[0146] In step ST42, the control unit 86C controls the transport mechanism 26 to load the magnetic tape cartridge 16 containing the magnetic tape MT identified by the magnetic tape identification identifier 114 associated with the cumulative value 106 determined in step ST40 into the magnetic tape drive 18 (see Figure 15). The control unit 86C also controls the magnetic tape drive 18 to cause the magnetic head 58 of the magnetic tape drive 18 to read the first data 84 from the magnetic tape MT in the magnetic tape cartridge 16 (see Figure 15). The control unit 86C also acquires the first data 84 read by the magnetic head 58 via the control device 54 of the magnetic tape drive 18 (see Figure 15). The control unit 86C then stores the first data 84 acquired from the magnetic tape MT in the magnetic tape drive 18 into the external storage device 96, thereby saving the first data 84 to the external storage device 96 (see Figure 15). After the processing in step ST42 is completed, the system control process proceeds to step ST44.

[0147] In step ST44, the control unit 86C determines whether or not the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is loaded into the magnetic tape drive 18 (see Figure 16). If, in step ST44, the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is not loaded into the magnetic tape drive 18, the determination is denied, and the system control process proceeds to step ST52. If, in step ST44, the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is loaded into the magnetic tape drive 18, the determination is affirmed, and the system control process proceeds to step ST46.

[0148] In step ST46, the control unit 86C determines whether or not a magnetic processing execution instruction has been received by the receiving device 34. If the magnetic processing execution instruction has not been received by the receiving device 34 in step ST46, the determination is denied, and the system control process proceeds to step ST52. If the magnetic processing execution instruction has been received by the receiving device 34 in step ST46, the determination is affirmed, and the system control process proceeds to step ST48.

[0149] In step ST48, the control unit 86C obtains the cumulative value 106 from the latest second information 113 stored in the NVM 88 (see Figure 16). After the processing in step ST48 is completed, the system control process proceeds to step ST50.

[0150] In step ST50, the control unit 86C calculates the skew angle from the skew angle calculation formula based on the cumulative value 106 obtained in step ST48. The control unit 86C then adjusts the skew angle θ of the magnetic head 58 by controlling the tilt mechanism 80 via the control device 54 of the magnetic tape drive 18 so that the skew angle θ of the magnetic head 58 becomes the skew angle calculated from the skew angle calculation formula (see Figure 16). The control unit 86C also calculates the tension from the tension calculation formula based on the cumulative value 106 obtained in step ST48. The control unit 86C then adjusts the tension applied to the magnetic tape MT by controlling the feed motor 68 and the take-up motor 72 via the control device 54 of the magnetic tape drive 18 so that the tension applied to the magnetic tape MT becomes the tension calculated from the tension calculation formula. After the processing in step ST50 is completed, the system control processing proceeds to step ST52.

[0151] In step ST52, the control unit 86C determines whether the conditions for terminating the system control process (hereinafter referred to as "termination conditions") have been met. An example of a termination condition is that an instruction to terminate the system control process has been received by the receiving device 34. If the termination conditions are not met in step ST52, the determination is denied, and the system control process proceeds to step ST10 shown in Figure 17A. If the termination conditions are met in step ST52, the determination is affirmed, and the system control process terminates.

[0152] As explained above, in the magnetic tape system 10, the temperature 98 and humidity 100 of the environment in which the magnetic tape MT is stored are acquired, and the specific enthalpy 102 is derived using the temperature 98 and humidity 100. The creep phenomenon, which is considered to be the main cause of width changes in the magnetic tape MT, is dependent on the specific enthalpy 102. Therefore, in the magnetic tape system 10, management processing 108 is performed on the magnetic tape MT according to the specific enthalpy 102. That is, as management for the magnetic tape MT, management is performed in which the influence of the specific enthalpy 102 is reflected in the variation of the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT. Thus, the quality of the magnetic tape MT (for example, the quality caused by the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT) can be managed. Furthermore, in the magnetic tape system 10, management processing 108 is performed using only one parameter, the specific enthalpy 102. Therefore, compared to the case where the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT is managed by individually considering the influence of temperature 98 and humidity 100 on the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT while monitoring both temperature 98 and humidity 100, the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT can be managed more simply.

[0153] Furthermore, in the magnetic tape system 10, the management process 108 is performed as a process corresponding to the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102. The cumulative value 106 represents the tendency of the specific enthalpy 102 to change over time. Therefore, as a management of the quality of the magnetic tape MT (for example, quality caused by the amount of width deformation of the magnetic tape MT), it is possible to realize management that corresponds to the tendency of the specific enthalpy 102 to change over time (here, as an example, the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102).

[0154] Furthermore, in the magnetic tape system 10, the specific enthalpy 102 is calculated for each of the multiple periods (for example, periods divided into 1-hour units). Then, the management process 108 is performed according to the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102 calculated for each of the multiple periods. The cumulative value 106 represents the tendency for the specific enthalpy 102 to change over time throughout the multiple periods. Therefore, as a management measure for the quality of the magnetic tape MT (for example, quality caused by the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT), it is possible to realize a management measure that corresponds to the tendency for the specific enthalpy 102 to change over time throughout the multiple periods.

[0155] Furthermore, in the magnetic tape system 10, multiple periods for which the specific enthalpy 102 is calculated are defined at regular time intervals (for example, 1-hour intervals). Therefore, as a control measure for the quality of the magnetic tape (for example, quality caused by the width deformation of the magnetic tape MT), it is possible to implement a control measure that corresponds to the tendency for the specific enthalpy to change over time through multiple periods defined at regular time intervals.

[0156] Furthermore, in the magnetic tape system 10, when the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102 exceeds the first threshold, second information 113 is output. The second information 113 includes first threshold exceedance information 115. The first threshold exceedance information 115 is information that can identify that the latest cumulative value 106 has exceeded the first threshold. Therefore, the timing of when the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102 exceeds the first threshold can be managed.

[0157] Furthermore, in the magnetic tape system 10, a first threshold value, which is compared with the latest cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102, is determined according to the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT. Therefore, the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT can be managed with greater accuracy compared to cases where the first threshold value is determined solely by empirical rules or intuition.

[0158] Furthermore, in the magnetic tape system 10, the first data 84 is recorded in the data band DB of the magnetic tape MT. However, the first data 84 may become unplayable due to a deterioration in the quality of the magnetic tape MT (for example, quality caused by the amount of width deformation of the magnetic tape MT). Therefore, in the magnetic tape system 10, the first data 84 is saved to an external storage device 96, which is a different medium from the magnetic tape MT, by performing a backup process 108B. Thus, the situation in which the first data 84 recorded in the data band DB of the magnetic tape MT becomes unplayable can be avoided.

[0159] Furthermore, in the magnetic tape system 10, the save process 108B is performed when the latest cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102 exceeds the second threshold and before it reaches the third threshold. Therefore, compared to the case where the save process 108B is performed regardless of the magnitude of the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102, the first data 84 can be saved to an external storage device 96, which is a medium different from the magnetic tape MT, at an appropriate timing.

[0160] Furthermore, in the magnetic tape system 10, the second and third thresholds, which are compared with the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102, are determined according to the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT. Therefore, the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT can be managed with greater accuracy compared to cases where the second and third thresholds are determined solely by empirical rules or intuition. Note that, although both the second and third thresholds are determined according to the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT here, it is sufficient if at least the third threshold is determined according to the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT.

[0161] Furthermore, the magnetic tape system 10 outputs first information 112 and second information 113. The first information 112 and second information 113 contain information about the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102. For example, the first information 112 contains the cumulative value 106 itself, and the second information 113 contains the cumulative value 106 and the first threshold exceedance information 115. Therefore, by outputting the first information 112 and second information 113, it is possible to manage information about the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102.

[0162] Furthermore, in the magnetic tape system 10, the magnetic tape cartridge 16 containing the magnetic tape MT is stored in the environment of the cartridge storage cell 22 of the magnetic tape library 12. In the magnetic tape system 10, the temperature 98 and humidity 100 of the cartridge storage cell 22, which is the environment in which the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is stored, are obtained, and the specific enthalpy 102 is derived using the temperature 98 and humidity 100. The creep phenomenon, which is considered to be the main cause of width changes in the magnetic tape MT, is dependent on the specific enthalpy 102. Therefore, in the magnetic tape system 10, a management process 108 is performed on the magnetic tape MT contained in the magnetic tape cartridge 16 according to the specific enthalpy 102. That is, as management for the magnetic tape MT, management is performed in which the influence of the specific enthalpy 102 is reflected in the variation in the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT. Thus, the quality of the magnetic tape MT contained in the magnetic tape cartridge 16 (for example, the quality caused by the width deformation amount of the magnetic tape MT) can be managed.

[0163] Furthermore, in the magnetic tape system 10, each of the multiple magnetic tape cartridges 16 is stored in the environment of the cartridge storage cell 22 of the magnetic tape library 12. In the magnetic tape system 10, the temperature 98 and humidity 100 of the multiple cartridge storage cells 22, which are the environment in which the multiple magnetic tape cartridges 16 are stored, are obtained, and the specific enthalpy 102 is derived using the temperature 98 and humidity 100. The creep phenomenon, which is considered to be the main cause of width changes in magnetic tape MT, is dependent on the specific enthalpy 102. Therefore, in the magnetic tape system 10, a management process 108 is performed on the multiple magnetic tape MTs stored in the multiple magnetic tape cartridges 16 according to the specific enthalpy 102. Thus, the quality of the multiple magnetic tape MTs stored in the multiple magnetic tape cartridges 16 (for example, the quality due to the amount of width deformation of the multiple magnetic tape MTs) can be managed.

[0164] Furthermore, in the magnetic tape system 10, multiple magnetic tape cartridges 16 are housed in a rack 20 in a manner that allows for easy insertion and removal. Each of the multiple magnetic tape cartridges 16 contains a magnetic tape MT. The temperature 98 and humidity 100 inside the rack 20 are acquired by the acquisition unit 86A, and the specific enthalpy 102 using the temperature 98 and humidity 100 is calculated by the derivation unit 86B. Then, a management process 108 is performed on the magnetic tape MT according to the specific enthalpy 102. Thus, the quality of the magnetic tape MT housed in the rack 20 (for example, quality due to the amount of width deformation of the magnetic tape MT) can be controlled.

[0165] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102 is calculated by the derivation unit 86B, but this is merely one example. For example, instead of the cumulative value 106, the mean value of the specific enthalpy 102 may be applied, the mode of the specific enthalpy 102 may be applied, the median of the specific enthalpy 102 may be applied, the maximum value of the specific enthalpy 102 may be applied, or the minimum value of the specific enthalpy 102 may be applied, as long as it is a statistical value that can represent the tendency of the specific enthalpy 102 to change over time.

[0166] Furthermore, although the above embodiment describes an example in which the management process 108 is performed based on the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102, the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, each time the specific enthalpy 102 for each of the multiple periods is obtained, the management process 108 may be performed for each period based on the obtained specific enthalpy 102.

[0167] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, for the sake of explanation, a management process 108 using a specific enthalpy 102 based on temperature 98 and humidity 100 acquired by the acquisition unit 86A from a single environmental sensor 31 was illustrated, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, temperature 98 and humidity 100 may be acquired in parallel or sequentially by the acquisition unit 86A from multiple environmental sensors 31 (e.g., multiple environmental sensors 31 specified by a user 38, etc., or all environmental sensors 31), and the management process 108 may be executed by the control unit 86C using the specific enthalpy 102 based on the acquired temperature 98 and humidity 100. This makes it possible to perform the management process 108 for multiple magnetic tapes MT in parallel or sequentially.

[0168] Furthermore, although the above embodiment describes an example in which playback defects and off-tracks are reduced by adjusting the skew angle θ, the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, playback defects and off-tracks may be reduced by adjusting the tension applied to the magnetic tape MT based on the cumulative value 106, instead of, or in conjunction with, adjusting the skew angle θ. The tension applied to the magnetic tape MT is adjusted by controlling the operation of the feed motor 68 and the take-up motor 72.

[0169] Furthermore, while the above embodiment describes an example in which a save process is performed when the relationship “third threshold > cumulative value 106 > second threshold” is met, the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, when the relationship “third threshold > cumulative value 106 > second threshold” is met, instead of, or together with, the control unit 86C may output information indicating that the cumulative value 106 has exceeded the second threshold (for example, an alert indicating that the lifespan is approaching). In this case, it is preferable that the second threshold is greater than the first threshold. By setting the second threshold to a value greater than the first threshold, it becomes possible to sequentially activate a first-stage alert using the lifespan prediction screen 116 and a second-stage alert using information indicating that the cumulative value 106 has exceeded the second threshold. In this case, for example, the first stage alert should be triggered when the relationship “Second threshold ≥ Cumulative value 106 > First threshold” is met, and the second stage alert should be triggered when the relationship “Cumulative value 106 > Second threshold” is met.

[0170] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described an example in which the second information 113 is stored in the NVM 88 and cartridge memory 48 (see Figures 12 and 14), the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, as shown in Figure 18, the control unit 86C may record the second information 113, which is the result of output processing 108A, on the magnetic tape MT by controlling the magnetic head 58 via the control device 54 of the magnetic tape drive 18. In this case, for example, the second information 113 may be recorded in the BOT area or EOT area of ​​the magnetic tape MT. In this way, by recording the second information 113 on the magnetic tape MT, it becomes possible to manage the quality of the magnetic tape MT using the second information 113 recorded on the magnetic tape MT. Note that in the example shown in Figure 18, the magnetic tape MT is an example of the "first storage medium" and "second storage medium" related to the technology of this disclosure.

[0171] Furthermore, the first information 112 (see Figure 12), which is the result of output processing 108A, may be recorded on the magnetic tape MT. Also, as a result of backup processing 108B, information (e.g., an address) that identifies the destination (e.g., external storage device 96) to which the first data 84 was backed up by backup processing 108B may be recorded on the magnetic tape MT. This information may also be stored in the NVM 88, the external storage device 96, or the cartridge memory 48. The information identifying the destination to which the first data 84 was backed up is merely an example; various information obtained by performing management processing 108 may be stored in the magnetic tape MT, NVM 88, external storage device 96, and / or cartridge memory 48, etc. This allows the quality of the magnetic tape MT to be managed using the information stored in the magnetic tape MT, NVM 88, external storage device 96, and / or cartridge memory 48, etc.

[0172] Furthermore, the magnetic tape MT on which various information is stored is an example of a "magnetic tape on which the results of management processing performed by a magnetic tape management device are recorded" in relation to the technology of this disclosure, and the magnetic tape MT, NVM88, and / or external storage device 96, etc. on which various information is stored are examples of the "first storage medium" and "second storage medium" in relation to the technology of this disclosure.

[0173] Furthermore, various information stored on the magnetic tape MT, NVM88, and / or external storage device 96 may be output by the control unit 86C to an external device (e.g., a personal computer, server, and / or smart device). This allows the quality of the magnetic tape MT to be managed using the various information stored on the magnetic tape MT, NVM88, and / or external storage device 96.

[0174] Furthermore, while the above embodiment illustrates an example of how the life prediction screen 116 is displayed on the display 36 (see Figure 13), the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, as shown in Figure 19, the control unit 86C may generate an accumulated value screen 118 based on the second information 113 and display the generated accumulated value screen 118 on the display 36. An example of the accumulated value screen 118 is a screen that includes a graph showing the change in the accumulated value 106 over time. Alternatively, the accumulated value screen 118 may be a screen that allows comparison between a graph showing the history of the accumulated value 106 over time and a first threshold, a second threshold, and / or a third threshold. The accumulated value screen 118 may also be displayed side by side with the life prediction screen 116, or the life prediction screen 116 and the accumulated value screen 118 may be selectively displayed according to instructions received by the reception device 34 and / or various conditions set for the library controller 32. Furthermore, the information displayed on the lifespan prediction screen 116 and the cumulative value screen 118 may be output as audio via a speaker or the like.

[0175] Furthermore, although the above embodiment describes an example in which output processing 108A and backup processing 108B are performed as management processing 108, the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and only one of output processing 108A and backup processing 108B may be performed. Also, if backup processing 108B is performed without output processing 108A, backup processing 108B may be performed after the alert is activated. Also, at least one of output processing 108A and backup processing 108B may be performed, and the off-track reduction processing 110 may not be performed.

[0176] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described an example in which temperature 98 and humidity 100 are measured by an environmental sensor 31 installed in the cartridge housing cell 22, this is merely one example. An environmental sensor 31 may also be installed inside the magnetic tape drive 18, so that temperature 98 and humidity 100 are measured by the environmental sensor 31 inside the magnetic tape drive 18 even while the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is loaded into the magnetic tape drive 18, and the measurement results are handled in the same manner as in the above embodiment. This makes it possible to continuously collect temperature 98 and humidity 100 over multiple periods, and as a result, a cumulative value 106 can be calculated without any gaps over multiple periods.

[0177] Furthermore, while the above embodiment illustrates an example in which the management process 108 is performed according to the cumulative value 106 of the specific enthalpy 102 based on the temperature 98 and humidity 100 measured by the environmental sensor 31 within the magnetic tape library 12, this is merely one example. For example, the technology of this disclosure is valid even when one or more magnetic tape cartridges 16 intended to be housed in the magnetic tape library 12 are located outside the magnetic tape library 12 due to transportation of the magnetic tape cartridges 16, etc.

[0178] In this case, for example, an environmental sensor 120 is installed on a magnetic tape cartridge 16 located outside the magnetic tape library 12, and the environmental sensor 120 measures temperature 98A and humidity 100A at regular time intervals (for example, every hour). The temperature 98A and humidity 100A measured by the environmental sensor 120 are temporarily stored in the environmental sensor 120, and the data may be acquired from the environmental sensor 120 by the acquisition unit 86A, provided that the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is housed in the cartridge housing cell 22. Alternatively, in an environment where the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is located outside the magnetic tape library 12, the temperature 98A and humidity 100A may be measured by the environmental sensor 120 at regular time intervals (for example, every hour), and communication may take place between the environmental sensor 120 and the acquisition unit 86A, so that the temperature 98A and humidity 100A are acquired from the environmental sensor 120 by the acquisition unit 86A.

[0179] The temperature 98A and humidity 100A acquired by the acquisition unit 86A in this manner are used by the derivation unit 86B to calculate the specific enthalpy 102. The derivation unit 86B calculates the specific enthalpy 102 based on the temperature 98A and humidity 100A, and uses the calculated specific enthalpy 102 to calculate the cumulative value 106. Then, the control unit 86C performs management processing 108 based on the cumulative value 106. In this way, even if the magnetic tape cartridge 16 is located outside the magnetic tape library 12, the management processing 108 is performed by the control unit 86C in the same manner as in the above embodiment, and the same effects as in the above embodiment can be obtained.

[0180] Furthermore, although the above embodiment divides multiple periods into fixed time intervals, the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the length of each period does not have to be fixed, but may be determined by irregular time intervals. For example, the length of each of the multiple periods may be a length specified by the user 38, etc. Also, the length of each period may be a fixed value, or it may be a variable value that is changed according to instructions received by the receiving device 34 and / or various conditions.

[0181] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, multiple periods are divided into fixed time intervals. One hour is given as an example of a fixed time interval, but this is merely one example. For example, the unit of the time interval can range from one second to about three months. The lower limit is preferably about 30 seconds, and more preferably one minute or more. On the other hand, the upper limit is preferably about one month, a more preferable upper limit is about one day, and an even more preferable upper limit is about six hours. If the time interval is too short, the effects of fluctuations in ambient temperature and humidity will not be transmitted to the magnetic tape MT. If the time interval is too long, the changes in temperature and humidity that can affect the width deformation of the magnetic tape MT will be averaged out, making accurate prediction difficult. For example, if the time interval exceeds three months, there is a risk that the effects of seasonal variations will not be reflected.

[0182] Furthermore, the timing of temperature and humidity measurements within each period may be a single measurement at the beginning of each period, or they may be measured continuously at predetermined intervals (e.g., a few seconds), and the average value, mode, minimum value, or maximum value of the measurement results may be adopted. Also, when dealing with decimal values ​​measured at long intervals, the system becomes susceptible to the influence of instantaneous fluctuations in the measurement timing, while if the measurement interval is too short, the amount of data becomes enormous, increasing the burden of data handling. It is desirable to measure and acquire temperature and humidity once every 1 to 86,400 seconds. It is desirable to use the average value or mode of the acquired temperature and humidity, with the average value being the most desirable.

[0183] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an environmental sensor 31 is installed for each cartridge storage cell 22, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, one or more environmental sensors 31 may be provided for each row of cartridge storage cells 22, or one or more may be provided for each column of cartridge storage cells 22. Also, one or more environmental sensors 31 may be provided for every few to tens of rows of cartridge storage cells 22, or one or more may be provided for every few to tens of rows of cartridge storage cells 22. In addition, one or more environmental sensors 31 may be provided for one magnetic tape library 12. In this case, for example, the environmental sensors 31 may be provided in locations where the temperature and humidity changes are expected to be the largest, or conversely, in locations where the temperature and humidity changes are expected to be the smallest. Also, the environmental sensors 31 may be provided in locations that are most affected by air conditioning or locations that are least affected by air conditioning.

[0184] Furthermore, an environmental sensor 31 may be provided for each of the multiple partitioned areas obtained by dividing a designated area within the rack 20. For example, the range of a partitioned area may be defined by units of one or more cartridge storage cells 22, or by units of one or more rows of cartridge storage cells 22, or by units of one or more columns of cartridge storage cells 22, or by units of an equally divided designated area within the rack 20, or by units of an unevenly partitioned designated area within the rack 20. In addition, multiple environmental sensors 31 may be provided for each partitioned area. In this case, statistical values ​​of temperature measured multiple times by multiple environmental sensors 31 within one period for each partitioned area (e.g., mean, median, mode, maximum, or minimum) may be acquired as temperature 98 by the acquisition unit 86A. Furthermore, statistical values ​​of humidity measured multiple times by multiple environmental sensors 31 within a single period for each sectioned area (e.g., mean, median, mode, maximum, or minimum) may be acquired as humidity 100 by the acquisition unit 86A. Then, specific enthalpy 102 may be derived by the derivation unit 86B for each sectioned area, and management processing 108 based on the specific enthalpy 102 corresponding to each sectioned area may be performed by the control unit 86C on the magnetic tape MT in the magnetic tape cartridge 16 included in each sectioned area.

[0185] Furthermore, while the above embodiment illustrates a control method using specific enthalpy 102 calculated from temperature and wet-bulb temperature, the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the wet-bulb temperature may be determined from measured temperature and relative humidity, and the wet-bulb temperature may be used in the same manner as the specific enthalpy 102 to perform control processing on the magnetic tape MT in the same manner as the above embodiment. That is, on the psychrometric chart, the wet-bulb temperature exhibits almost the same characteristics as the specific enthalpy 102 (for example, almost the same linearity), so almost the same effect as when using specific enthalpy 102 can be obtained. For this reason, the concept of "specific enthalpy" in the technology of this disclosure also includes the wet-bulb temperature obtained from measured temperature and relative humidity.

[0186] Furthermore, although the above embodiments have described an example in which the system control program PG is stored in the NVM88, the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the system control program PG may be stored in a portable computer-readable non-temporary storage medium such as an SSD or USB memory. The system control program PG stored in the non-temporary storage medium is installed in the library controller 32. The processor 86 executes the system control processing described in each of the above embodiments according to the system control program PG.

[0187] Alternatively, the system control program PG may be stored in a storage device such as another computer or server connected to the library controller 32 via a network, and the system control program PG may be downloaded and installed on the library controller 32 upon request from the library controller 32.

[0188] Furthermore, it is not necessary to store all of the system control program PG in the storage device of another computer or server connected to the library controller 32, or in the NVM88; some of the various programs may be stored there. Also, the functions of the library controller 32 may be implemented through cloud computing or the like.

[0189] In the embodiments described above, examples of how the technology of this disclosure is implemented by a software configuration are given, but the technology of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and devices including ASICs, FPGAs, or PLDs may be applied. Furthermore, a combination of hardware and software configurations may be used.

[0190] The hardware resources used to perform the system control processing described in the above embodiment include the following types of processors. Examples of processors include a CPU, which is a general-purpose processor that functions as a hardware resource for performing system control processing by executing software, i.e., a program. Other examples of processors include dedicated electronic circuits, which are processors with circuit configurations specifically designed to perform particular processing, such as FPGAs, PLDs, or ASICs. Each processor has built-in or connected memory, and each processor uses memory to perform system control processing.

[0191] The hardware resources that perform system control processing may consist of one of these various processors, or a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, a combination of multiple FPGAs, or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). Alternatively, the hardware resources that perform system control processing may consist of a single processor.

[0192] Examples of configurations using a single processor include, firstly, a configuration in which one or more CPUs and software are combined to form a single processor, and this processor functions as a hardware resource that performs system control processing. Secondly, there is a configuration using a processor that realizes the functions of the entire system, including multiple hardware resources that perform system control processing, on a single IC chip, as exemplified by SoCs. In this way, system control processing is realized using one or more of the above types of processors as hardware resources.

[0193] Furthermore, the hardware structure of these various processors can more specifically utilize electronic circuits that combine circuit elements such as semiconductor devices. Also, the system control processing described above is merely an example. Therefore, it goes without saying that unnecessary steps can be deleted, new steps added, or the processing order rearranged, as long as it does not deviate from the main purpose.

[0194] 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.

[0195] 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."

[0196] 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 to be incorporated by reference.

[0197] The following additional information is disclosed regarding the embodiments described above.

[0198] (Note 1) Equipped with a processor, The above processor is Obtain the temperature and relative humidity of the environment in which the magnetic tape is stored. Using the above temperature and relative humidity, the wet-bulb temperature is derived. The management process for the magnetic tape is performed according to the wet-bulb temperature mentioned above. Magnetic tape management device.

[0199] (Note 2) The above management process is a process that corresponds to the statistical value of the wet-bulb temperature. The magnetic tape management device described in Appendix 1.

[0200] (Note 3) The above processor derives the above wet-bulb temperature for each of the multiple periods, The above statistics are the wet-bulb temperature statistics derived for each of the above-mentioned periods. The magnetic tape management device described in Appendix 2.

[0201] (Note 4) The above-mentioned periods are defined at regular time intervals. The magnetic tape management device described in Appendix 3.

[0202] (Note 5) The above statistical values ​​are the cumulative values ​​of the wet-bulb temperatures. A magnetic tape management device as described in any one of the appendices 2 through 4.

[0203] (Note 6) The above management process includes a first output process that outputs information that identifies the statistical value exceeding the first threshold when the statistical value exceeds the first threshold. A magnetic tape management device as described in any one of the appendices 2 through 5.

[0204] (Note 7) The above first threshold is a value determined according to the amount of width deformation of the magnetic tape. The magnetic tape management device described in Appendix 6.

[0205] (Note 8) The above magnetic tape contains the first data, The above management process includes a backup process that backs up the first data to a medium different from the magnetic tape. A magnetic tape management device as described in any one of the appendices 1 through 7.

[0206] (Note 9) The above processor performs the save operation when the above statistical value exceeds the second threshold and before it reaches the third threshold. A magnetic tape management device as described in any one of the appendices 2 through 7, as cited in appendice 8.

[0207] (Note 10) At least the third threshold among the second threshold and the third threshold is a value determined according to the amount of width deformation of the magnetic tape. The magnetic tape management device described in Appendix 9.

[0208] (Note 11) The above management process includes a second output process that outputs information related to the above statistical values. A magnetic tape management device as described in any one of the following: Appendix 2 to Appendix 7, Appendix 2 cited by Appendix 8, Appendix 3 cited by Appendix 8, Appendix 4 cited by Appendix 8, Appendix 5 cited by Appendix 8, Appendix 6 cited by Appendix 8, Appendix 7 cited by Appendix 8, Appendix 9, and Appendix 10.

[0209] (Note 12) The magnetic tape cartridge containing the above-mentioned magnetic tape is stored under the above-mentioned conditions. A magnetic tape management device as described in any one of the appendices 1 through 11.

[0210] (Note 13) Multiple of the above magnetic tape cartridges are stored under the above conditions. The magnetic tape management device described in Appendix 12.

[0211] (Note 14) A first storage medium on which the results of the management process performed by the magnetic tape management device described in any one of the appendices 1 to 13 are stored. A magnetic tape cartridge equipped with [a specific feature / feature].

[0212] (Note 15) A magnetic tape on which the results of the above management process performed by the magnetic tape management device described in any one of the appendices 1 to 13 are recorded.

[0213] (Note 16) A second storage medium on which the results of the management process performed by the magnetic tape management device described in any one of the appendices 1 to 13 are stored, A control device that operates based on the above results stored in the second storage medium, A magnetic tape system equipped with [the following features].

[0214] (Note 17) The system includes a magnetic tape management device as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 13. The magnetic tape system described in Appendix 16.

[0215] (Note 18) The magnetic tape management device described above provides a rack that allows for the insertion and removal of multiple magnetic tape cartridges, each containing multiple magnetic tapes. The magnetic tape system described in Appendix 17.

[0216] (Note 19) To obtain the temperature and humidity of the environment in which the magnetic tape is stored. To derive the wet-bulb temperature using the above temperature and humidity, and, Perform the management process on the magnetic tape according to the wet-bulb temperature mentioned above. A magnetic tape management method that includes this.

[0217] (Note 20) On the computer, To obtain the temperature and humidity of the environment in which the magnetic tape is stored. To derive the wet-bulb temperature using the above temperature and humidity, and, A program for causing a process to be executed, which includes performing management processing on the magnetic tape according to the wet-bulb temperature mentioned above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0218] 10 Magnetic Tape Systems 12 Magnetic Tape Library 14. Library Management Device 16 Magnetic Tape Cartridges 18 Magnetic Tape Drives 20 racks 22 cartridge storage cells 24 drive-accommodating cells 26 Conveying mechanism 26A Upper Bar 26B Lower bar 26C Horizontally Movable Robot 26D Vertical Bar 26E Vertically movable robot 28,30 Double arrow 31,120 environmental sensors 32 Library Controllers 34 Reception Device 34A Keyboard 34B Mouse 34C Touch Panel 36 displays 38 users 40 cases 40A Right wall 40B opening 42 Upper case 44 Lower case 46 Sending reels 46A Reel Hub 46B1 Upper flange 46B2 Lower flange 48 cartridge memory 48A, 66 Reverse side 50 Management information 52 Contactless reading and writing devices 54 Control device 56 Running gear 58 Magnetic Heads 60,92 External I / F 62A magnetic layer 62B base film 62C backcoat layer 64 Surface 68 Sending motor 70 reel 72 Rewinding motor 74 Magnetic element unit 76 Holder 78 Moving mechanism 78A Moving Actuator 80 Tilt mechanism 80A tilt actuator 82 servo patterns 84 Data 1 86 processors 86A Acquisition Department 86B Derivation part 86C Control Unit 88NVM 90 RAM 94 Bus 96 External storage device 98,98A Temperature 100, 100A Humidity 102 Specific Enthalpy 104 Arithmetic expression 106 Cumulative Value 108 Management Processing 108A Output Processing 108B Evacuation Procedure 110 Off-track reduction processing 112 1st information 113 Second information 114 Magnetic Tape Identifier 115 First Threshold Exceeded Information 116 Lifespan prediction screen 118 Cumulative Value Screen A, B, C arrows C1, C2 virtual line DB, DB1, DB2 Databand DRW Data Read / Write Element GR Guide Roller LD (Long side) MF magnetic field MT magnetic tape PG System Control Program RA rotation axis SB, SB1, SB2, SB3 servo bands SR, SR1, SR2 Servo Reading Elements WD width direction θ Skew angle

Claims

1. Equipped with a processor, The aforementioned processor, Obtain the temperature and humidity of the environment in which the magnetic tape is stored. The specific enthalpy is derived using the aforementioned temperature and humidity. The statistical value of the relative enthalpy is calculated, In accordance with the aforementioned statistical values, management processing is performed on the magnetic tape. The first threshold is a value determined according to the amount of width deformation of the magnetic tape. The second and third threshold values ​​are determined according to the amount of width deformation of the magnetic tape. The aforementioned management process is: The process includes outputting information that identifies the statistical value exceeding the first threshold when the statistical value exceeds the first threshold, and / or saving the first data recorded on the magnetic tape to a medium different from the magnetic tape when the statistical value exceeds the second threshold and is less than the third threshold. Magnetic tape management device.

2. The processor derives the relative enthalpy for each of the multiple periods, The aforementioned statistical value is the statistical value of the relative enthalpy derived for each of the aforementioned multiple periods. The magnetic tape management device according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned periods are defined at regular time intervals. The magnetic tape management device according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned statistical value is the cumulative value of the specific enthalpy. A magnetic tape management device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The first threshold is the cumulative value corresponding to the upper limit of the width deformation amount at which playback defects and / or off-tracks do not occur in the magnetic tape. The magnetic tape management device according to claim 4.

6. The third threshold is the cumulative value corresponding to the lower limit of the width deformation amount when the lifespan of the magnetic tape is reached. The magnetic tape management device according to claim 4 or claim 5.

7. The management process includes a second output process that outputs information related to the statistical values. A magnetic tape management device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The magnetic tape cartridge containing the magnetic tape is stored in the aforementioned environment. A magnetic tape management device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. Multiple magnetic tape cartridges are stored in the aforementioned environment. The magnetic tape management device according to claim 8.

10. The aforementioned management process includes an off-track reduction process, The off-track reduction process is a process that reduces off-tracking during magnetic tape playback by adjusting the skew angle of the magnetic head and / or adjusting the tension applied to the magnetic tape according to the statistical value. A magnetic tape management device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A first storage medium on which the results of the management process performed by the magnetic tape management device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 are stored. A magnetic tape cartridge equipped with [a specific feature / feature].

12. A magnetic tape on which the results of the management process performed by the magnetic tape management device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 are recorded.

13. A second storage medium on which the results of the management process performed by the magnetic tape management device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 are stored, A control device that operates based on the results stored in the second storage medium, A magnetic tape system equipped with [the following features].

14. The magnetic tape management device is provided according to any one of claims 1 to 10. The magnetic tape system according to claim 13.

15. The system includes a rack that allows for the insertion and removal of multiple magnetic tape cartridges, each containing multiple magnetic tapes managed by the aforementioned magnetic tape management device. The magnetic tape system according to claim 14.

16. To obtain the temperature and humidity of the environment in which the magnetic tape is stored. To derive the specific enthalpy using the aforementioned temperature and humidity, To calculate the statistical value of the relative enthalpy, and, This includes performing management processing on the magnetic tape according to the aforementioned statistical values, The first threshold is a value determined according to the amount of width deformation of the magnetic tape. The second and third threshold values ​​are determined according to the amount of width deformation of the magnetic tape. The aforementioned management process is: The process includes outputting information that identifies the statistical value exceeding the first threshold when the statistical value exceeds the first threshold, and / or saving the first data recorded on the magnetic tape to a medium different from the magnetic tape when the statistical value exceeds the second threshold and is less than the third threshold. Methods for managing magnetic tapes.

17. A program that causes a computer to perform a process, The aforementioned process is, To obtain the temperature and humidity of the environment in which the magnetic tape is stored. To derive the specific enthalpy using the aforementioned temperature and humidity, To calculate the statistical value of the relative enthalpy, and, This includes performing management processing on the magnetic tape according to the aforementioned statistical values, The first threshold is a value determined according to the amount of width deformation of the magnetic tape. The second and third threshold values ​​are determined according to the amount of width deformation of the magnetic tape. The aforementioned management process is: The process includes outputting information that identifies the statistical value exceeding the first threshold when the statistical value exceeds the first threshold, and / or saving the first data recorded on the magnetic tape to a medium different from the magnetic tape when the statistical value exceeds the second threshold and is less than the third threshold. program.

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