Storage library with multi-directional picker

摘要

An automated data storage library of unique design includes a plurality of storage cell magazines containing storage cells for holding storage media cartridges therein. A picker mechanism having multiple direction capability is positioned for accessing and transporting the storage media cartridges between at least three adjacent storage cell magazines. The picker mechanism includes a pair of gripper pickers configured for releasably gripping and supporting the storage media cartridges during transport between the storage cells. The picker mechanism is rotatable so that one of the grippers can be utilized to access two of the adjacent storage cell magazines while the second gripper accesses the third storage cell magazine. For increased efficiency, the picker mechanism can be positioned between opposing columns of storage cell magazines together with a single storage cell column at one end. Plural picker mechanisms can also be positioned between adjacent sets of storage cell magazines having three adjacent storage cell magazines each. Still further, the picker mechanism could be positioned to access a peripheral storage device in communication with a host processor, together with a pair of rotatable cartridge carousels containing plural storage cell magazines.