Inductive Coupling Mechanism for Tape Library Accessor Power

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing automated data-storage libraries face design limitations and increased costs due to the need for cable connections to supply power and communications to robotic accessors, which restrict scalability and require frequent replacements.

Innovation Solution

A tape library with a fixed coupling mechanism using inductive coils at discrete locations allows the accessor to move via gravity, enabling power and communication transfer without continuous cables, reducing alignment issues and expansion costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If cable connections are used to supply power and communications to the robotic accessor, then reliable power and data transmission is achieved, but the design of the scalable library is limited and replacement costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower and communication transmissionVSAvoidscalability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical cable connection system with an inductive coupling system. The accessor includes an inductive coupling mechanism that wirelessly transfers power and communications signals to the robotic accessor, eliminating the need for physical cable connections while maintaining reliable power and data transmission.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the power and communication supply system into discrete segments. Instead of a continuous cable, there are discrete inductive coupling locations along the library path, allowing the accessor to pick up power and signals at specific points without requiring continuous cable coverage throughout the entire library.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Duration of action of stationary object

If continuous cable connections are used, then uninterrupted power supply is achieved, but the cost associated with track replacement increases when library is extended

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontinuous power supplyVSAvoidexpansion cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the power supply system into discrete inductive coupling locations rather than using a continuous cable. When the library is extended, only the discrete coupling locations need to be added at new positions, rather than replacing entire cable tracks, significantly reducing expansion costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the power supply system dynamic by allowing the accessor to move freely along the library path and pick up power at any discrete coupling location. This dynamic approach allows for flexible library expansion without requiring rigid cable reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If cable connections are used to ensure unobstructed movement, then the robot can travel the full length of the library, but the cable limits the design of the scalable library

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemovement capabilityVSAvoidlibrary design flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical cable constraint with an inductive coupling system that allows the accessor to move freely without physical tethering. The inductive coupling mechanism maintains power and communication connections without restricting the accessor's movement path or library design flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution simplifies power and communication supply to robots, ensuring continuous operation and reducing operational expenses while allowing for scalable and cost-effective expansion of the tape library.

Implementation Method 1

The storage device is provided with an inductive coil transfer mechanism so that rather than having continuous coils for inductive coupling there are discrete locations where there is a fixed coupler

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The use of such a coupling mechanism in a vertical tape library allows for the use of gravity to ensure that the accessor can move to a location where the accessor can electronically couple with the fixed coupling mechanism even when no power is present in the accessor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS7885034B2Contactless method for power and communications in a tape library

Publication Date: 2011.02.08 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION

AI summary

A tape library is provided with a fixed coupling mechanism so that the tape library includes discrete locations via which power and communication are provided to an accessor. The use of such a coupling mechanism in a vertical tape library allows for the use of gravity to ensure that the accessor can couple with the fixed coupling mechanism even when no power is present in the accessor.