Crescent geometry for an optical ribbon recorder

Several geometries have been presented in the literature for optical tape recorders. In this paper, we address a new scanning architecture called crescent scanning. The primary features of this architecture include a new scanning mechanism and the resulting crescent-like pattern of tracks across the width of the ribbon. In addition, the ribbon is contained in a sealed or semi-sealed cartridge where the optical surface of the ribbon does not come into contact with any surface other than rolling upon the tape itself. This paper will primarily discuss concepts related to scanning the ribbon.