GB1195123A - Improvements in Tape Handling Apparatus. - Google Patents

Abstract

1,195,123. Automatic control systems for tape handling apparatus. INTERNATIONAL COMPUTERS Ltd. May 7, 1968 [May 16, 1967], No.22618/67. Heading G3R. In tape handling apparatus of the type including hollow suction blocks 26, 27 positioned to exert a braking force on the tape 3, the blocks are connected to the air suction system of a tape loop reservoir 10 in which a predetermined loop is maintained during recording or playback operation and from which the loop is withdrawn during a fast rewind operation, the arrangement being such that the braking force exerted by the blocks during rewind is less than that exerted during recording or playback. The reservoir 10 and position control circuits, 31, 32 are similar to the arrangement described in Specification 1, 195, 121 and the control system for producing the recording, playback and rewind operations is that described in Specification 1, 195, 122. During recording or playback with a loop 9 in the reservoir 10, a strong suction is exerted by the unit 14 on the blocks 26, 27 through vents 13, 20 and possibly vents 11 and 12 depending on the loop position. During rewind the loop 9 is removed from the reservoir 10 so that the blocks 26, 27 receive suction from the vents 11, 12, 13 and atmospheric pressure from the open end 22 of the reservoir, this combination resulting in a reduced suction and braking force at the blocks. Modifications include the use of an independent vent for the blocks 26, 27 (instead of one associated also with the fault detector 23), the use of a single compartment reservoir or the use of an auxiliary reservoir formed inside or outside the main reservoir 10, with the option of suction only for the blocks and the loop 9 being formed by other means.