Apparatus and method for controlling tape speed and tape pack formation in a high speed tape transporter

摘要

As tape moving at high speed through a closed loop tape transporter (10) is conveyed into a storage bin (64) the tape is directed against a curved tape deflecting surface opposite and in spaced-apart relation to the bin entrance (63). A plurality of vacuum ports (96) are positioned in spaced-apart relation generally along the path of tape movement on the tape deflecting surface (64A). As the tape moves along the tape deflecting surface (64A), vacuum-induced drag is applied to the tape to create a progressive breaking force which slows the tape and causes the tape to form into loops. The loops assist the tape is accumulating in the bottom of the bin in a controlled manner.