Multi-Cartridge Storage Hand for Library Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern data storage libraries face inefficiencies due to the need for multiple aisles to accommodate robotic devices, limiting the number of data storage cartridges that can be stored as each aisle reduces the total capacity.
Innovation Solution
A device referred to as a 'hand' with a housing capable of holding multiple data storage cartridges, equipped with a gripping mechanism and transport mechanisms, such as belts or rollers, that allows for simultaneous retrieval and placement of multiple cartridges, reducing the need for multiple aisles by enabling the hand to retrieve and deliver multiple cartridges at once.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple aisles are provided in the library to allow robots to retrieve data storage cartridges, then the robots can access cartridges, but the total number of data storage cartridges that may be stored is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cartridge-handling functions into a single hand device. The hand includes a housing with multiple storage locations for holding multiple cartridges simultaneously, along with gripping mechanisms and transport mechanisms that can retrieve and deliver multiple cartridges in one operation. This merging of functions eliminates the need for multiple aisles, as one hand can service multiple cartridge locations without requiring separate access paths for each cartridge.
Solution Approach 2:
The hand device introduces a new dimension of operation by enabling vertical or multi-level cartridge retrieval. The housing can hold cartridges in stacked or multi-row arrangements, and the transport mechanisms can move cartridges between different levels or positions within the hand. This dimensional approach allows the system to access cartridges that would traditionally require horizontal aisle separation, thereby reducing aisle requirements while maintaining accessibility.
2Quantity of substance
If data storage cartridges are packed closely together to maximize storage capacity, then storage density increases, but access to cartridges becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The hand device implements a nested structure where multiple cartridges are held within the housing in a compact arrangement. The gripping mechanisms are positioned to access cartridges that are nested or stacked within the housing, allowing the hand to retrieve cartridges from densely packed positions without requiring wide aisles. The transport mechanisms further nest the movement operations, first gripping the cartridge and then transporting it into the housing space.
Solution Approach 2:
The hand acts as an intermediary device between the densely packed cartridge storage locations and the robot. Instead of the robot directly accessing each cartridge from wide aisles, the hand serves as a mediating tool that can reach into tight spaces, grip multiple cartridges, and deliver them to the robot or readers. This intermediary function enables close packing while maintaining ease of access through the hand's multi-functional capabilities.
3Productivity
If multiple robots are used to retrieve and deliver data storage cartridges, then cartridge handling capacity increases, but the cost and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hand device is designed with universal, multi-functional capabilities that can perform multiple cartridge operations. The housing can hold multiple cartridges in various arrangements, the gripping mechanisms can retrieve cartridges from different positions, and the transport mechanisms can deliver cartridges to different destinations. This multi-functionality allows a single hand to replace the work of multiple specialized robots, reducing system complexity while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The hand performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning and pre-grabbing multiple cartridges before delivering them to the robot or readers. The housing can hold cartridges in advance, and the gripping mechanisms can secure multiple cartridges simultaneously, preparing them for delivery. This preliminary action capability allows the system to handle multiple cartridges in one operation, effectively increasing productivity without requiring multiple robots to work in sequence.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for simultaneously manipulating multiple data storage cartridges or other storage elements in a storage library. The device housing includes an opening for receiving data storage cartridges. A gripping mechanism extends from the opening. The gripping mechanism is adapted to grip a data storage cartridge to be retrieved and to urge the data storage cartridge into the opening. One or more transport mechanisms are attached to one or more inner walls of the housing. The transport mechanisms are adapted such that once a data storage cartridge moves into the opening, the transport mechanisms will urge the data storage cartridge further into the opening until the data storage cartridge is held within the housing. The data storage cartridge can be moved further into the housing such that the gripping mechanism is free to collect additional cartridges.