U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
Information Products Division |
U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
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(definitions have been obtained from the
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Electronic Products Branch)
Class 369
DYNAMIC INFORMATION STORAGE OR RETRIEVAL
Class Definition:
A. This is the generic class for processes of and apparatus
for the storage or retrieval of arbitrarily variable
information (as defined in the glossary below) which is
retained in a storage medium by variation of a physical
characteristic thereof. The information is stored or
retrieved by causing or sensing a variation of a physical
characteristic of the storage medium by a transducer having
relative motion along a continuous path.
(1) Note. The record carrier must have continuous physical
extent over the path of movement and be able to store a
time-varying information signal. Static or discrete systems
are classified elsewhere (see References to Other Classes,
below).
(2) Note. The characteristic variation is one which must be
retrievable by a transducer. Such variation producing only a
directly perceptible indication (e.g., a graph), is
classified elsewhere (see References to Other Classes,
below).
B. This class includes processes and apparatus for the
copying or editing of a storage medium within the above
definition limited to such copying or editing including a
step of storage or retrieval by relative motion.
C. This class includes the record carrier, per se, having
particular information storage structure.
LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
COMBINATIONS OF OTHER APPARATUS WHICH INCLUDE APPARATUS OF
THIS CLASS
Significantly claimed subject matter external to this class,
claimed in combination with apparatus under the class
definition, is classified in the class appropriate to the
external apparatus.
The combination of an audio signal producing device with the
subject matter of this class is classified in this class,
except the combination with telephone signal devices are
classified elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes,
below.)
Nominally claimed apparatus external to this class, claimed
in combination with apparatus under the class definition, is
classified herein. (See Subclass References to the Current
Class, below.)
SUBCOMBINATIONS OF DYNAMIC INFORMATION STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL
This class includes elements and subcombinations peculiar to
the subject matter of this class (e.g., a phonos:graphic
stylus and cartridge).
(1) Note. Subcombination devices of general utility such as
piezoelectric transducers are classified elsewhere.
Electrical circuitry which may be used in dynamic storage or
retrieval, but which is not unique thereto is found in the
appropriate class for such circuitry.
Mechanisms forming subcombinations of storage or retrieval
devices, are classified in the appropriate mechanical class.
DYNAMIC MAGNETIC INFORMATION STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL
Class 360 provides for information storage and retrieval by
causing or sensing modification of a magnetic condition on a
record. Class 360 is to be considered an integral part of
Class 369 and follows the schedule hierarchy, retaining all
pertinent definitions and class lines, thereof.
Classification in Class 360 is evidenced by either explicit
recitation or sole disclosure of magnetic structure.
ORGANIZATION OF THIS CLASS
For the organization of this class, see Subclass References
to the Current Class, below.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
1 through 12, Combined with Independent Audio System, for a
device of this class and an operatively related audio signal
source of independent content. These subclasses may include
specific magnetic storage or retrieval devices.
13 through 18, Diverse Types of Storage and Retrieval: for
devices having differing intended kinds of storage and
retrieval. These subclasses may include specific magnetic
storage or retrieval devices.
53 through 58, Control Functions: for devices and processes
for modifying or maintaining the storage or retrieval
operation, other than for sequential storage medium
selection.
53 through 58, Monitoring of Condition: for devices which
indicate a condition of a storage or retrieval device or a
subcombination thereof.
59 through 85, Special Purpose Devices: for devices designed
for use with or control of diverse type devices, or
particular processing of the information signal.
69 for nominally claimed apparatus external to this class,
claimed in combination with apparatus under the class
definition.
99 through 173, General Recording or Reproducing; for
methods and devices which are concerned with either the
physics of storage or retrieval or processing of the
information signal.
174 and 175, Signal Modification: for devices which are
basically electronic in nature and are used to modify,
correct, or insure the efficient storage or retrieval of
information signals, and are not limited to any particular
type of storage or retrieval.
176 through 257, Dynamic Mechanism Subsystems: for mechanism
subcombinations peculiar to storage or retrieval absent more
than nominal information handling structure.
272 through 291, Structure of Storage Medium: for structure
of the storage medium element having significant structure
for carrying information.
292 Miscellaneous: for subject matter under the class
definition and not found above.
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
181, Acoustics, appropriate subclasses for nonelectrical
sound wave handling systems and components.
235, Registers, for static or discrete systems. (Lines With
Other Classes and Within This Class, "Static or Discrete
Systems"
310, Electrical Generator or Motor Structure, 300 for
piezoelectric transducers, per se.
312, Supports: Cabinet Structure, 9.1 for phonograph
cabinets without storage or retrieval structure.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 692 for an alarm
system having a sound reproducer.
346, Recorders, appropriate subclasses for storage of
information on a medium in a directly human perceptible
form.
346, Recorders, for variation producing only a directly
perceptible indication (e.g., a graph). (Class Definition,
(2) Note, above.)
352, Optics: Motion Pictures, 1 for subject matter of this
class combined with motion picture recording or projection.
353, Optics: Image Projectors, 15 for image projectors with
sound accompaniment.
355, Photocopying, subclass 31 and 98 for copying optical
sound records.
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval,
appropriate subclasses for magnetic storage or retrieval
analogs to the subclasses following Class 18 (See Lines With
Other Classes and Within This Class, "Dynamic Magnetic
Information Storage and Retrieval, " above).
365, Static Information Storage and Retrieval, for static or
discrete systems. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This
Class, "Static or Discrete Systems"
379, Telephonic Communications, 67.1 for similar subject
matter combined with a telephone system component; and other
appropriate subclasses for electrical audio signal handling,
in general. The combination of an audio signal producing
device with the subject matter of this class (369) is
classified in this class (369), except the combination with
telephone signal devices are classified in Class 379,
subclasses 67.1+. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This
Class, "Combinations of Other Apparatus")
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing and Systems and
Devices, appropriate subclasses for electrical audio signal
handling in general.
386, Television Signal Processing for Dynamic Recording or
Reproducing, 1 for color television recording or
reproducing; and subclasses 46+ for recording or reproducing
with video signal processing.
399, Electrophotography, subclass 10 for storage of data on
the operation of an electrophotos:graphic device (i.e., log
report) and subclass 83 for job mode selection with memory.
455, Telecommunications, appropriate subclasses for radio
devices.
505, Superconductor Technology: Apparatus, Material,
Process, 150 for high temperature (T[subscrpt]c[end
subscrpt] > 30 K) superconducting material, particularly
subclasses 170+ for dynamic information storage or
retrieval.
704, Data Processing: Speech Signal Processing, Linguistics,
Language Translation, and Audio Compression/Decompression,
200 for speech signal processing involving data processing.
711, Electrical Computers and Digital Processing Systems:
Memory, subclass 4 for addressing dynamic storage devices
including address formation or manipulation and subclasses
111+ for data accessing and control techniques for dynamic
storage devices in digital data processing systems.
GLOSSARY:
INFORMATION OR INFORMATION SIGNAL
A time varying physical quantity representing desired
intelligence, often an audible sound or an electrical
signal.
RETRIEVAL
Production or reproduction of a stored information signal
from the storage medium characteristics.
RECORD
(1) (noun) The pattern of modulation by the information
signal of the variable storage medium characteristic. (2)
(verb) To effect storage of an information signal. As these
terms have the same spelling the terms "store", "storage
medium", and variants thereof will be preferred usage in the
schedule and definitions in order to avoid confusion.
RECORD CARRIER
A tangible object upon which an information signal is stored,
synonymous with storage medium.
STORAGE
Retention of information in a permanent or semipermanent
form, or establishing such retention.
STORAGE MEDIUM
An object having a characteristic which is, or may be,
modified at positional increments in accordance with the time
variation of information which is stored thereon.
TRACK OR STORAGE TRACK
A continuous path of an intelligence varied characteristic on
the storage medium.
TRACKING
Following a storage track by a transducer assembly or a
component thereof.
TRANSDUCER ASSEMBLY
The combination of an energy conversion device (transducer)
and device coupling the energy conversion device to a storage
medium so as to sense or to cause a variation of a
characteristic therein.
SUBCLASSES
Subclass:
1
COMBINED INDEPENDENT AUDIO SYSTEMS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter combined with another audio signal system
capable of operating independently of the storage or
retrieval device.
(1) Note. Such distinct apparatus includes public address
systems or radios.
(2) Note. The apparatus may include an additional storage
or retrieval device.
(3) Note. The storage or retrieval device may be of the
magnetic type.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
379, Telephonic Communications, 68 for a dynamic audio
signal recorder or reproducer combined with a telephone
system or component thereof.
Subclass:
2
Changeover between audio systems:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter
having switching structure to selectively connect the
independent audio systems.
Subclass:
3
Fading between plural signals:
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Subject matter
wherein the switching structure includes a signal handling
element which varies continuously over a period of time the
ratio of two input signals to form a resultant signal which
is composed solely of the first signal prior to the specified
period and solely of the second signal subsequent to said
period.
Subclass:
4
Combining signals to form composite (e.g., mixing):
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter
wherein the independent audio signals are concurrently passed
through a common signal handling element to produce a
resultant of both signals.
(1) Note. The signals to be combined may be relatively or
separately adjusted, and monitored to produce a desired
resultant effect.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
53 for monitoring of a storage or retrieval system.
83 for editing of stored information, in general.
Subclass:
5
One of systems having plural concurrent signal (e.g.,
stereophonic):
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter
wherein one of the systems provides a plurality of signals
simultaneously.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
86 for storage or retrieval systems for spatially related
acoustic signals.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
1 circuitry, in general.
Subclass:
6
Radio:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Subject matter
including a system which converts radio frequency energy to
audible energy.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
455, Telecommunications, for radio devices, per se.
Subclass:
7
Including recording from radio:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein an audio signal output of the radio is connected to
the storage input.
(1) Note. The connection is usually part of an overall
selection of program sources for the loud speaker output.
Subclass:
8
Oscillator modulated by retrieved information signal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
including a source of oscillations controlled or otherwise
modulated by the information retrieval device.
(1) Note. The oscillator is often a local oscillator in the
radio circuit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
129 for a mechanical retrieval controlled oscillator.
Subclass:
9
Mechanical phonograph:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein the radio and a mechanical phonograph are coupled by
a common acoustical element.
Subclass:
10
With common cabinet for cartridge or cassette:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein the radio housing includes structure unitary
therewith for receiving a housing including a storage
medium.
Subclass:
11
Including separable assembly:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein (a) a radio is converted to a cartridge/cassette
player by combining a cartridge/cassette module therewith, or
(b) a cartridge/cassette player is converted to a radio by
combining a radio module therewith.
(1) Note. A radio module includes a cartridge or cassette
housing with radio circuitry therein.
Subclass:
12
Cabinet details:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
including structural details of an enclosure surrounding the
components of the radio and signal retrieval system.
(1) Note. The cabinet structure must include some specific
detail of the combined system, or an element thereof,
otherwise such structure is classified as a cabinet, per se.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
75.1 for similar subject matter including only a storage or
retrieval device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
174, Electricity: Conductors and Insulators, 50 for boxes
and housing limited by claimed structure to electrical use
but having no characteristic limiting them to particular
electrical equipment; and subclasses 250+ for printed circuit
arrangements of general utility.
181, Acoustics, 148 for a diaphragm mounted in a cabinet.
312, Supports: Cabinet Structure, 9.1 for cabinets or
enclosures especially designed to house phonograph
instruments or records.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, 600 for
boxes and mountings in combination with electrical apparatus
having no significant art limitation, or boxes and mounting
in combination with plural diverse electrical apparatus.
Subclass:
13
STORAGE DIFFERENT FROM RETRIEVAL (E.G., OPTICAL RECORDING AND
MAGNETIC REPRODUCTION):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein storage medium sensing for signal
retrieval is diverse from storage medium modification for
signal storage.
(1) Note. The term "diverse" refers to physically different
changes, e.g., magnetic, optical, mechanical.
(2) Note. For classification herein the diverse types of
storage and retrieval must be claimed together. Alternative
embodiments of an invention claimed separately are classified
elsewhere.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
17 for conversion of the information from a variation in one
characteristic to a variation in a different characteristic
of the storage medium.
85 for transfer of stored information from a storage medium
to another of diverse type.
Subclass:
14
SIMULTANEOUS DIVERSE TYPES OF STORAGE OR RETRIEVAL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter for information signal storage by concurrent
diverse types of storage medium modification, or information
signal retrieval by concurrent diverse types of storage
medium sensing.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93 for plural, spatially distinct tracks stored or retrieved
by the same type of storage or retrieval.
Subclass:
15
ALTERNATIVE DIVERSE TYPES OF STORAGE OR RETRIEVAL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter for information signal storage by selection of
one of diverse types of storage medium modification, or for
the information signal retrieval by selection of one of
diverse types of storage medium sensing.
(1) Note. Exemplary of such subject matter would be a
recording or reproducing device for an elongate web record
carrier having both magnetic and radiation transducers which
may be alternatively switched into a circuit for use with
either a photos:graphic or magnetic tape.
Subclass:
16
MECHANICAL PRODUCTION OF OPTICAL STORAGE TRACK:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter in which information is mechanically recorded
onto a storage medium to produce variations in the
transmissivity or reflectivity of the storage medium.
(1) Note. This subject matter combined with claimed optical
reading of the storage medium is classified in subclass 13,
above.
(2) Note. This subject matter often includes mechanical
cutting of an opaque layer covering the storage medium.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
127 for mechanical information storage, in general.
Subclass:
17
TRACK CONVERSION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including changing from a first type to a
second type of track having the same signal content on the
same storage medium.
(1) Note. Included herein is conversion from an optical
track to a magnetic track.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
85 for copying a sound track onto a separate storage medium
of a different type.
Subclass:
18
OPTICAL READING OF MECHANICAL RECORD:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including retrieval by optical sensing of a
mechanically recorded track.
(1) Note. Included herein are devices with photosensitive
pickups for grooved records.
Subclass:
19
CONTROL BY TIMER OR EXTERNAL EXTRANEOUS CONDITION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including modification of an operating
condition of the storage or retrieval device by apparatus
responsive to time or to a condition other than an
information parameter and external to the storage or
retrieval device.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
47 for control of a storage or retrieval operation by an
information related parameter.
Subclass:
20
By diverse art device:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Subject matter
wherein the operating condition is controlled by apparatus
having utility other than to perfect the storage or retrieval
of a signal.
(1) Note. Detailed structure of the diverse art device is
classified therewith.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
70 for control of diverse art device by storage or retrieval
device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 692 for a sound
reproducer controlled by an alarm circuit.
434, Education and Demonstration, subclass 366 for abnormal
condition simulating devices.
Subclass:
21
In vehicle or elevator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Subject matter
wherein the storage or retrieval device is located in a
movable passenger carrying compartment.
(1) Note. The controlling condition may be external to the
vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 139 and 901+ for a
communication device for an elevator or a vehicle, in
general.
Subclass:
22
Audible indicator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 20. Subject matter
wherein the retrieval device is an audible reproducer, the
content of the reproduced sound information being the value,
generally numerical, of the time or condition to which the
device responds.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
379, Telephonic Communications, 67 for similar subject
matter in a telephone system.
Subclass:
23
Talking clock:
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Subject matter
wherein the reproduced sound information is the time.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
368, Horology: Time Measuring Systems or Devices, subclass
63 for talking clocks including details of the time
determining device.
Subclass:
24
OPERATOR ACTUATED REMOTE CONTROL OR INFORMATION LOCATION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including control of a storage or retrieval
apparatus by an operator either (a) from a geos:graphically
spaced location, or (b) of physical location of the
information on a storage medium.
(1) Note. This subclass does not include conventional
control of signal processing such as on-off or volume
controls.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, 825 for electrical remote
control transmission systems of general utility.
Subclass:
25
Dictation or transcribing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 24. Subject matter
particularly adapted to audibly record or reproduce the
spoken intended contents of a document.
(1) Note. Examples of such adaptation are facilitating
correction of stored audio information subsequent to storage
and prior to retrieval, or facilitating retrieval and
modification thereof (e.g., backspacing).
(2) Note. A storage or retrieval device designated as for
dictation or transcription, merely by name and absent
structure therefor, is not classified herein.
Subclass:
26
Privacy:
This subclass is indented under subclass 25. Subject matter
with provision for preventing access to a dictation circuit
or signal, or to the corresponding portions of the storage
medium.
(1) Note. Examples include antibackspace tones, and busy or
in use signals.
Subclass:
27
With access to or marking of specified locations (e.g.,
indexing):
This subclass is indented under subclass 25. Subject matter
having structure to indicate the location of the current, or
another designated, positioned increment along the storage
medium.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
53 for condition indication and monitoring of a storage or
retrieval device, in general.
Subclass:
28
By stored additional signal (e.g., tone):
This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Subject matter
wherein the indication is given by a signal stored in the
same manner as the information signal.
(1) Note. Such indicating signals are often reproduced as
audible tones.
Subclass:
29
Remote station (e.g., multiple stations or recording
devices):
This subclass is indented under subclass 25. Subject matter
wherein the source of the audible information to be stored
and control equipment is located remotely from, and connected
by an audible signal transmitting line to the storage
device.
(1) Note. The source is often a telephone-type handset.
(2) Note. The connecting line is often similar to a
telephone system connecting a plurality of audible
information devices, or of storage devices. However,
classification is herein unless the system is recited to be a
telephone system, or conversation is possible over such a
system (e.g., between handsets).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
379, Telephonic Communications, subclass 75 for remote
dictation over a telephone system.
Subclass:
30
Selective addressing or storage medium (e.g., programmed
access, "juke box"):
This subclass is indented under subclass 24. Subject matter
wherein the control function includes storage on or retrieval
from a designated storage medium element or portion thereof.
(1) Note. The term "random access" is sometimes used for
such device. However, such usage should be carefully
distinguished from random selection or indexing which is
classified in subclasses 66 and 98, and refers to selection
absent prior designation.
(2) Note. Positive recitation of steps or apparatus for
designation is necessary for classification herein.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
57 for manual tone arm positioning adjuncts.
178 for selection of storage medium absent designation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval, 75
for random access of a magnetic record carrier.
434, Education and Demonstration, appropriate subclasses,
particularly 322 for nominal audio reproduction combined
with recording of, or controlling by operator response to
instruction, or combined with audible description
corresponding to displayed visual matter, other than a
display or listing.
Subclass:
31
Novelty device (e.g., talking doll):
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium is associated with a novelty
device.
(1) Note. Usually the novelty device constitutes the
housing for a sound reproducer. Thus, a doll with a pull
string by which the reproducer will emit one of several
messages as selected by the direction of a pull on the
string.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
63 for similar subject matter absent selective addressing.
Subclass:
32
With specified electrical information signal processing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Subject matter
including detail of handling the information signal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
99 for information signal processing absent selective
addressing.
Subclass:
33
With specified electrical control signal processing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Subject matter
including detail of handling of an electrical signal which
affects the operation of storage medium element or portion
selection.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 825.24 and 825.25
for similar subject matter absent structure detail of signal
storage.
Subclass:
34
Plural storage medium elements:
This subclass is indented under subclass 33. Subject matter
wherein the selection is of one of a plurality of separate
storage medium elements.
Subclass:
35
Plural nontranslating storage elements (e.g., in situ):
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Subject matter
having plural storage elements wherein the transducing
assembly produces all storage element selecting motion.
(1) Note. The transducing assembly may have associated
structure for driving the storage element in use.
(2) Note. The storage elements have no motion other than
that used for storage or retrieval.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
39 for a scanning turntable which moves the storage element
from its nonselected position in a plural disc carrier.
Subclass:
36
With unitary plural disc carrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Subject matter
wherein an integrated mechanical array holds the discs in
some way that they are readily accessible for selection.
(1) Note. The array holding the discs may be referred to as
a magazine.
(2) Note. This subject matter absent storage medium
designation is classified in subclass 192 and cross-reference
thereto should not be made in the absence of a nonselective
embodiment.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems, 567 for electric
motor positioning systems not limited to subject of this
class as an end element or load.
Subclass:
37
Radial array:
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Subject matter
wherein the mechanical array holds the storage discs in a
nonparallel pattern or spacing, which pattern may have
characteristic lines with a common center.
(1) Note. Either the array or retrieval station may move
for selective positioning.
(2) Note. The diameter of each disc in a common plane may
be seen to radiate from the same center.
(3) Note. The array classified here may be merely a segment
or a portion, or an entire circumference.
(4) Note. Arrays of small groups of discs, possibly
parallel within each group but spaced radially group to group
are classified here.
(5) Note. This subject matter absent storage medium
designation is classified in subclass 192 and cross-reference
thereto should not be made in the absence of a nonselective
embodiment.
Subclass:
38
Moving linear array:
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Subject matter
wherein the mechanical array holds the storage discs in
parallel along a common axis, and which array is movable
along such axis for positioning a selected disc adjacent a
retrieval station.
(1) Note. Arrays of small groups of discs, parallel within
each group but spaced radially group to group are classified
in subclass 37 above.
(2) Note. This subject matter absent storage medium
designation is classified in subclass 192 and cross-reference
thereto should not be made in the absence of a nonselective
embodiment.
Subclass:
39
Scanning turntable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium motion producer moves along a
stationary array for positioning relative to a selected
disc.
(1) Note. The storage medium motion producer may be a
turntable of such small diameter as to permit access to both
sides of a disc.
(2) Note. This subject matter absent storage medium
designation is classified in subclass 192 and cross-reference
thereto should not be made in the absence of a nonselective
embodiment.
Subclass:
40
By manually actuated mechanism for movement of tone arm:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Subject matter
including a hand actuated linkage coupled to a tone arm for
setting to a selected position on a storage disc.
Subclass:
41
Of track on single storage medium:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Subject matter
wherein the designated portion of the storage medium is a
distinct path of information modulated variation on the
surface thereof.
Subclass:
42
By mechanical linkage:
This subclass is indented under subclass 24. Subject matter
including a device having a plurality of relatively moving
parts for transmitting a controlling force or motion from
another location to the storage or retrieval location.
(1) Note. Examples of such devices are Bowden cables or
pneumatic actuators.
Subclass:
43
WITH SERVO POSITIONING OF TRANSDUCER ASSEMBLY OVER TRACK
COMBINED WITH INFORMATION SIGNAL PROCESSING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter having closed-loop control of the alignment
between the transducer assembly and the information storage
track combined with handling of the information signal.
(1) Note. The servo corrects alignment error and, if
necessary, provides tracking motion for the transducer
assembly.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
220 for transducer support control of powered support drive
having storage or retrieval absent information signal
handling.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval, 77.01
for track centering on a magnetic record carrier.
Subclass:
44.11
Optical servo system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Subject matter
wherein the servo positioning is controlled by a radiant
energy transducer.
(1) Note. The transducer may be either an information
sensing transducer or an auxiliary transducer. Incidental
recitation of focusing or tracking, or a servo system
therefor, is not enough to permit classification here.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44.27 for recording systems with
initialization/startup/changing modes concepts.
44.32 for recording systems with defect/abnormal condition
concepts.
44.38 for a recording system claimed in a plural beam
system.
47 and 51, for optical information storage or retrieval
systems where a pilot signal is used.
93 for optical systems using plural distinct independent
tracks.
100 for optical systems with specific detail of information
handling portion of system.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
250, Radiant Energy, 201.1 for optical tracking devices in
radiant energy systems, per se.
Subclass:
44.12
Solid state optical element with plural dissimilar optical
components (e.g., using i.c. block, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.11. Subject
matter including a block of material of an integrated chip,
semiconductor or solid state nature with plural dissimilar
optical components or at least one optical component with an
additional electrical component combined therein.
(1) Note. Examples are acoustic beam deflector and tracking
circuit are on the same block of material, or a diode laser
and acoustic lens in the same block of material.
(2) Note. Plural lasers or lasing points of the same
frequency/wavelength on a common substrate are not classified
herein since they have similar structure, but may be
classified in this Class, subclass 44.37 or 44.38. However,
if they are of different structure (i.e. different laser
types) combined in a common structure they are classified
herein.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44.37 or 44.38, for servo systems using plural beams.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
257, Active Solid-State Devices (e.g., Transistors,
Solid-State Diodes), subclass 13, 79 through 103 and 918 for
incoherent light emitting injection luminescent devices,
subclasses 80-85 for semiconductor light emitting sources
combined with semiconductor light responsive devices, and
subclasses 10, 11, 21, 53-56, 72, 113-118, 184 through 189,
225 through 234, 257, 258, 290 through 294, 414, and 431
through 466 for light responsive active semiconductor
devices.
385, Optical Waveguides, subclass 14 for an integrated
optical circuit and subclasses 129+ for a planar optical
waveguide.
Subclass:
44.13
Dithering or wobbling the beam or track:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.11. Subject
matter wherein a beam or track is dithered wobbled,
undulated, vibrated, or oscillated along a track center line
for tracking or focusing control.
Subclass:
44.14
Optical head servo system structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.11. Subject
matter including structural detail of the mechanisms for
focussing or tracking.
(1) Note. Optical head is defined as a device for producing
a focused beam of light on a medium containing information
and detecting the light reflected from the medium to
determine the information content of the medium.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
359, Optics: Systems (Including Communication) and Elements,
197 and 819+ for optical heads in general, with or without
servo system combination, when no recording/playback or
combination with the recording medium is claimed.
Subclass:
44.15
Elastic, flexible, pliant or spring support of lens or
mirror:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.14. Subject
matter wherein an optical element is supported by some type
of elastic, flexible, pliant, resilient or spring support for
allowing or limiting motion in one or more various directions
(e.g., elastic support holds lens or mirrors and permits
focus motion but limits lateral motion, etc.).
(1) Note. A piezoelectric bender which supports the lens or
mirror meets the definition and its flexible condition.
Subclass:
44.16
Flat flexible support (e.g., parallel leaf springs, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.15. Subject
matter with planar means to limit or provide a limited
direction of motion (e.g., support permits only one of
focusing or tracking motion to occur, etc.).
Subclass:
44.17
Optical head element with rotary motion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.14. Subject
matter wherein an optical head element such as a lens or
mirror pivots/rotates about its own axis or about a support
axis in order to scan or focus on the track.
Subclass:
44.18
Rotary headwheel or scanner (e.g., for use with arcuate,
transverse or slant tracks, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.17. Subject
matter wherein an optical component rotales through a 360
degree motion to follow a track.
(1) Note. Slant tracts or tracks transverse to the storage
medium motion are found on tape or card medium where the
medium moves before or as the beam is directed across the
medium.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
97 for systems using tracks transverse to a motion
component.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval,
appropriate subclasses for magnetic rotary heads and
headwheels and the combination with magnetic tape.
Subclass:
44.19
Head element pivots on arm (e.g., optical head on disk arm
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.17. Subject
matter including a support arm which rotates about a pivot
point to drive the lens or mirror transverse to the track
direction (e.g., optical lens or mirror is pivoted on a
phonograph type arm which may provide both track accessing
and tracking control, etc.).
Subclass:
44.21
Lens or mirror pivots off center (e.g., on a shaft, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.17. Subject
matter wherein the support may or may not pivot about its own
central axis, but the lens or mirror on this support is
pivoted off center.
Subclass:
44.22
Lens or mirror floats (e.g., magnetic field support or
lens/mirror can freely float and pivot about its own axis,
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.14. Subject
matter wherein the lens or mirror has no support and floats
with potential freedom of motion in any direction, though a
field such as a magnetic field which may limit and control
its position and movement.
Subclass:
44.23
Structure for shaping beam or causing astigmatic condition:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.14. Subject
matter having means to modify the cross-sectional profile or
energy distribution of the beam or cause an astigmatic beam
condition.
(1) Note. The phrase "shaping beam" is intended to include
changing the intensity distribution characteristics or
cross-sectional profile or size/diameter of the beam (e.g.,
for beam intensity control etc.) but not for routine focus
control which inherently alters the beam size/diameter.
(2) Note. An "astigmatic" condition may be created by a
cylindrical or unidirectional lens.
(3) Note. Astigmatic is defined as a spherical aberration.
Subclass:
44.24
Means to mask or shield a portion of the beam:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.23. Subject
matter wherein a modification is performed by masking or
shielding a cross-sectional portion of the beam.
(1) Note. The masking or shielding can be caused by one
photodetector blocking a portion of the beam from falling
onto another photodetector.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44.42 where the servo system has arithmetic operations
performed on plural detectors outputs and the servo system is
responsive to a particular shape of the beam by virtue of the
beam or detector being that shape.
Subclass:
44.25
Servo signal compared to a reference signal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.11. Subject
matter wherein a developed servo signal is compared to an
external reference signal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44.27 if in an initialization/start-up or changing modes
system.
44.34 if the reference signal is sampled and stored signal
of an earlier servo signal.
Subclass:
44.26
Servo system operation related to disc structure information
format:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.11. Subject
matter wherein the operation of the servo system is in
cooperation with an information arrangement, format, layout,
pattern or track structure on the record medium.
(1) Note. The system can be, for example, a preformatted
disc where tracking is turned on during preformatted regions
and off during nonrecorded regions absent tracking data, or
where servo operation is integral with or affected by a
constant linear velocity disc format mode of operation, etc.
Subclass:
44.27
Initialization/start-up or changing modes of system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.11. Subject
matter wherein the servo system is affected by a change of
mode in operation at the beginning of system operation or a
change of mode during system operation.
(1) Note. "Random accessing" or indexing concepts may be
classified herein if no specific "selective addressing" or
feedback indication of arriving at a particular track address
occurs.
(2) Note. The action taken by the servo system must be
outside or beyond its normal routine ongoing continuous servo
operation.
(3) Note. Varying the servo system control during a change
between recording and playback or tracking modes due to the
information format of the disc is classified above in
subclass 44.26.
(4) Note. Examples of initialization/start-up are first
track recording and track jumping or crossing during a random
access type of operation.
(5) Note. Examples of mode change during operation are:
switching between coarse/fine servo control as servo
operation begins/changes modes, and the servo system
responding to some user initiated operation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30 32 or 33, for random accessing systems with selective
addressing.
44.11 for generic recording systems without recitation of
plural beams.
44.32 for recording systems with defect/abnormal condition
concepts.
44.34 for sampling or digital techniques not associated with
the criteria for subclass 44.27.
44.38 for a recording system claimed in a plural beam
system.
Subclass:
44.28
While track jumping or crossing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.27. Subject
matter wherein the servo system is operative during a track
jumping or track changing operation or as plural tracks are
crossed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44.32 for the concept of "track crossing" when not normally
associated with a deliberate action to jump across plural
tracks such as during initial addressing or relocating to
another track but where track crossing may be accidentally
introduced by some abnormal condition as found in subclasses
44.32+ below.
Subclass:
44.29
Servo loop gain/switching control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.27. Subject
matter wherein the servo system continuously varies the servo
gain or discretely switches in/out between servo loops.
(1) Note. Varying the gain may be some control operation
not only to change the gain but to have the ability to vary
it to keep it stable and prevent undesired varying, and
varying the gain may be implemented with either active or
passive (e.g., notch filter, etc.) elements.
(2) Note. Gain is defined as the ratio of output power to
input power for a system or component.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44.35 servo loop gain/switching control not associated with
criteria for subclass 44.27.
Subclass:
44.31
Recording:
Subject matter under subclasses 44.29 wherein an optical
system is capable of a writing/recording operation.
(1) Note. An example is recording of a first track on a
disc which is then used for tracking control for further
tracks being recorded.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44.33 for recording systems with a defect/abnormal
condition.
44.38 for a recording system claimed in a plural beam
system.
44.39 for generic recording systems without recitation of
plural beams.
Subclass:
44.32
Means to compensate for defect or abnormal condition:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.11. Subject
matter wherein the servo system structure or operation has
means to avoid the servo system being affected by, or so that
it is responsive to and corrects for an adverse situation.
(1) Note. Examples of conditions being corrected are disc
defects, tilt, vibrations, shocks, impacts, skew to normal
direction to the disc surface, vertical warp, jitter,
eccentricity, beam variations or some condition outside of
the ordinary servo operation condition, etc.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44.11 for generic recording systems.
44.27 for recording systems with
initialization/start-up/changing modes concepts.
44.38 for a recording system claimed in a plural beam
system.
Subclass:
44.33
Recording (e.g., inhibit recording upon defect, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.32. Subject
matter comprising a writing/recording system in combination
with compensation means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44.31 for recording systems including
initialization/start-up.
44.38 for a recording system claimed in a plural beam
system.
44.39 for generic recording systems without recitation of
plural beams.
Subclass:
44.34
Sampling servo system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.11. Subject
matter wherein an instantaneous value of a variable is
obtained at regular intervals (e.g., sample and hold, be it
analog or digital storage, etc.).
Subclass:
44.35
Servo loop gain/switching control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.11. Subject
matter wherein the servo system varies the servo gain or
switches in/out or between servo loops.
(1) Note. Varying the gain also includes techniques for
stabilization.
(2) Note. Varying the gain may be implemented with either
active or passive (e.g., notch filter etc.) elements.
(3) Note. Gain is defined as the ratio of output power to
input power of a system or component.
Subclass:
44.36
Variable gain:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.35. Subject
matter wherein the servo gain is variable in a continuous
manner as opposed to being switched between values, but may
be combined with switching operations.
Subclass:
44.37
Plural incident beams:
Subject matter under 44.11 wherein plural beams incident upon
the recording medium are used, which may be one or more
focusing, tracking, playback or recording beams.
(1) Note. Plurals beams created by splitting a single beam
from the recording medium (e.g., etc., reflected beam is
split and directed to plural detectors) is not classified
here.
Subclass:
44.38
Recording:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.37. Subject
matter wherein one of the beams is for writing/recording
operations.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44.31 for recording systems with
initialization/start-up/changing modes concepts.
44.33 for recording systems with defect/abnormal condition
concepts.
44.39 for generic recording systems without recitation of
plural beams.
Subclass:
44.39
Recording:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44.11. Subject
matter comprising an optical system capable of a
writing/recording operation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44.31 for recording systems with initialization/start-up.
44.33 for recording systems with defect/abnormal condition.
44.38 for a recording system claimed in a plural beam
system.
Subclass:
44.41
Arithmetic operation using plural photo-detectors:
Subject matter under 44.11 where more than one of addition,
subtraction, multiplication, division is performed upon an
output signals of plural photodetectors for the purpose of
deriving one or more servo signals.
Subclass:
44.42
Beam or detector is not rectangular or circular:
Subject matter under 44.41 wherein either the beam or the
detector has a shape other than rectangular or circular.
Subclass:
47
CONTROL OF STORAGE OR RETRIEVAL BY A SIGNAL TO BE RECORDED OR
REPRODUCED (E.G., PILOT OR CONTROL SIGNAL):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein a signal to be stored or retrieved
acts upon apparatus for modifying, adjusting, or maintaining
some operating condition of the storage or retrieval
apparatus.
(1) Note. The controlling signal may be either the
information signal or a distinct signal for control
purposes.
Subclass:
48
Control of information signal channel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 47. Subject matter
wherein information signal processing circuitry is affected
by the controlling signal to determine a parameter of the
information signal.
Subclass:
49
Of plural interrelated channels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 48. Subject matter
wherein the information signal processing circuitry includes
distinct paths for several signal components, and the
controlled parameters in each path have a definite
relationship to each other.
Subclass:
50
Mechanism control by information signal (e.g., voice
responsive):
This subclass is indented under subclass 47. Subject matter
wherein a mechanical operating condition is controlled by a
parameter of the information signal.
Subclass:
51
Control of spiral track spacing (e.g., signal variable
pitch):
This subclass is indented under subclass 50. Subject matter
wherein the information signal adjusts the displacement
between adjacent record tracks during storage of the signal.
(1) Note. Such adjustment is often necessary for high
values of signal amplitude when recording lateral grooves.
Subclass:
52
CONTROL STRUCTURE ON STORAGE MEDIUM SENSED BY OTHER THAN
TRANSDUCER SUPPORT (E.G., CONDUCTIVE STRIP, NOTCHED EDGE
SENSOR):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein the storage medium has an element
thereon which is sensed by an electrical detector distinct
from the intelligence transducer support wherein the detector
controls an operating condition of the storage or retrieval
apparatus.
(1) Note. The additional structure on the storage medium is
not a recorded signal, which is classified elsewhere.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
14 for control by a recorded signal of a type diverse from
the information signal.
47 for control by reproduced signal.
231 for mechanism control structure sensed by transducer
support mechanism.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval,
subclass 77.03 and 78.11 for nonmagnetic sensing to produce
a control signal for magnetic transducer track centering and
selecting, respectively.
Subclass:
53
WITH CONDITION INDICATING (E.G., MONITORING) OR TESTING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter with apparatus including a perceptible
indication of some condition of a part of the storage or
retrieval system.
(1) Note. The indication may be given continuously, only to
indicate an abnormal condition, or only upon initiation by an
operator.
(2) Note. Condition indication or testing, absent storage
or retrieval will be classified in accordance with the
pertinent condition in the appropriate subclasses of Classes
73, Measuring and Testing; 116, Signals and Indicators; 324,
Electricity: Measuring and Testing; 340, Communications:
Electrical.
Subclass:
54
With radiation storage or retrieval:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53. Subject matter
wherein the information signal is stored on or retrieved from
the storage medium by information signal modulation of a beam
of radiant energy.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
100 for radiant energy storage or retrieval, in general.
Subclass:
55
Of transducer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53. Subject matter
wherein the component being tested or monitored is the
transducer assembly.
Subclass:
56
Location on storage medium:
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Subject matter
wherein the indicated condition of the transducer is its
position on the storage medium element.
Subclass:
57
Positioning adjunct (e.g., indexing):
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Subject matter
which indicates the position to which the transducing
assembly is set.
Subclass:
58
Of record carrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium is monitored or tested.
Subclass:
59
WITH BINARY PULSE TRAIN INFORMATION SIGNAL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including handling of an information signal
composed of a series or pattern of identical pulse bits
characterized solely by their presence or absence.
(1) Note. The term "identical pulse bits" refers to a
signal limited to one of two predetermined values for an
integral multiple of a predetermined period of time.
(2) Note. Pulse characteristic modulation is not classified
herein.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
341, Coded Data Generation or Conversion, 1 for pattern
reading type analog to digital converters.
Subclass:
60.01
SIGNAL PROCESSING BY STORAGE AND SUBSEQUENT RETRIEVAL (E.G.,
FREQUENCY SHIFT, DELAY, ETC.):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein a time-dependent characteristic of a
signal is modified by storing the signal on a storage medium
and subsequently reproducing the signal from the storage
medium.
(1) Note. The term "characteristic" includes the time of
occurrence of the signal.
(2) Note. The term "storage medium" is synonymous with a
"record carrier" under the class definition and does not
refer to a static memory.
Subclass:
61
STORAGE OF DIRECTLY RETRIEVABLE MODULATED R.F. OR
SUPERAUDIBLE CARRIER SIGNAL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein the information is stored in the form
of a wave modulated by the information signal, which upon
retrieval forms the stored modulated signal.
Subclass:
62
STORAGE OF SIGNAL MODULATING COMPONENT:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein the information signal to be stored is
presented in the form of a carrier wave modulated by a lower
frequency component, and the higher frequency wave is
partially or completely suppressed prior to storage and is
reinserted subsequent to retrieval.
(1) Note. The term "suppressed" refers to removal of the
carrier wave as by demodulation.
Subclass:
63
SOUND REPRODUCTION FOR TOY OR NOVELTY DEVICE (E.G., TALKING
DOLL):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter specifically designed for sound reproduction
and mounting within a device otherwise used for novelty or
amusement.
(1) Note. Such devices are often of the direct mechanical
conversion to sound type reproducers.
(2) Note. If the sole disclosure is of a sound reproducer
in a toy or novelty device, classification is in this
subclass even in the absence of claimed limitations thereto.
(3) Note. Note classification is in Class 446, Amusement
Devices: Toys, for sounding toys with structural details of
the toy.
Subclass:
64
With electrical information signal processing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Subject matter
having electrical circuitry for handling the intelligence
signal.
(1) Note. Subclasses 63 and 65-68 are intended to include,
at most, nominal recitation of an electrical information
signal.
Subclass:
65
Indexing to track (e.g., consecutive):
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Subject matter
having selection of one of a plurality of storage medium
tracks by successive operations of the sound reproducer.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
31 for similar subject matter having operator controlled
designation of a track.
98 for similar subject matter of general utility.
Subclass:
66
By chance:
This subclass is indented under subclass 65. Subject matter
wherein the selection of one of plural sound tracks is made
without any control of which track is chosen.
(1) Note. The term "random indexing" is sometimes used for
these devices, and should be distinguished from random access
or selective addressing as described in (1) Note of subclass
30.
(2) Note. The plural tracks may be on a single or on
distinct storage elements.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
98 for indexing by chance to plural tracks on a single
surface.
178 for indexing by chance to plural storage elements.
Subclass:
67
With beginning or end of cycle stylus return:
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Subject matter
including a mechanical pickup which is returned to an initial
position prior to beginning or subsequent to completion of
the reproduction.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
225 for pickup restoring not limited to toys or novelty
devices.
Subclass:
68
Manual motion application (e.g., novelty card, hand-held
stylus):
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Subject matter
wherein relative motion between the storage medium element
and transducer assembly is provided by a force concurrently
applied by an operator's hand.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
177 for a mechanism subsystem having a stationary storage
medium, in general.
Subclass:
69
SYSTEMS OR SUBSYSTEMS COMBINED WITH DIVERSE ART DEVICE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including structure peculiar to this class for
either information signal processing or storage medium
element handling, and having specified cooperation with
structure otherwise classifiable elsewhere and not provided
for therein.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
1 for such subject matter combined with a distinct audio
signal source.
Subclass:
70
For control of diverse art device:
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Subject matter
including controlling the operation of the diverse art device
by the storage or retrieval operation.
Subclass:
71
WITH STYLUS CLEANING OR TREATMENT (E.G., GRINDING):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter having removal of debris from, or modification
of, a stylus.
Subclass:
72
WITH STORAGE MEDIUM CLEANING OR ELECTROSTATIC CHARGE
NEUTRALIZATION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter having structure or method for removing
undesired material or electrostatic charge from the storage
medium combined with storage or retrieval.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, appropriate
subclasses for mechanical cleaning of storage medium not
combined with storage or retrieval.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, 212 for
discharging of an electrostatic charge, in general.
Subclass:
73
By charge leakage (e.g., ionized particles):
This subclass is indented under subclass 72. Subject matter
wherein the cleaning or charge neutralization has structure
to conduct undesired charge away from the storage medium.
(1) Note. The structure may include a source of air
ionizing radiation.
Subclass:
74
By tone arm attachment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 72. Subject matter
wherein the cleaning structure is mounted on the transducer
assembly support.
Subclass:
75.1
WITH PARTICULAR CABINET STRUCTURE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including structural details of an enclosure
surrounding the components of the dynamic information storage
or retrieval system.
(1) Note. The cabinet structures in this and the indented
subclasses must include some specific structure of a dynamic
information storage or retrieval system or an element
thereof, otherwise such structures classified as a cabinet,
per se.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
12 for cabinet structure for a radiophonograph combination.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
174, Electricity: Conductors and Insulators, 50 for boxes
and housings limited by claimed structure to electrical use
but having no characteristic limiting them to particular
electrical equipment; and subclasses 250+ for printed circuit
arrangements of general utility.
181, Acoustics, 148 for a diaphragm mounted in a cabinet.
312, Supports: Cabinet Structure, 9.1 for cabinets or
enclosures especially designed to house phonograph
instruments or records.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, 600 for
boxes and mountings in combination with electrical apparatus
having no significant art limitation, or boxes and mounting
in combination with plural diverse electrical apparatus.
Subclass:
75.2
With mechanism to place disc on a turntable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 75.1. Subject
matter including a mechanical arrangement normally inside the
cabinet which moves to the cabinet exterior to position the
record medium element onto a turntable within the cabinet.
Subclass:
76
With electrical information signal processing:
Subject matter under subclasses 75.1+ including electrical
handling of the information signal.
(1) Note. Subclasses 75.1 and 77.1 include at most nominal
recitation of an electrical signal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
128 for electrical information signal processing with
mechanical storage or retrieval, absent particular cabinet
structure.
Subclass:
77.1
Slotted for edgewise insertion of storage disc:
This subclass is indented under subclass 75.1. Subject
matter where there is a long narrow opening in the cabinet
structure which is used to insert or remove a disk shaped
storage medium.
Subclass:
77.2
Having disc stored in protective jacket:
This subclass is indented under subclass 77.1. Subject
matter wherein the disc is surrounded by a protective
enclosure when in other than the location at which the
information storage or retrieval is performed.
(1) Note. The protective jacket is often removed from the
cabinet with the disc remaining therein.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval, 99.02
for a floppy disk loading or ejecting mechanism in a
magnetic recorder or reproducer.
Subclass:
78
With lid-mounted transducer assembly carrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 75.1. Subject
matter wherein the enclosure has a lid with structure to
carry the transducer assembly of the enclosed storage or
retrieval equipment.
Subclass:
79
With closure-operated interlock or braking actuator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 75.1. Subject
matter wherein the enclosure has a lid or door with structure
to prevent or stop the operation of the enclosed equipment
when the cabinet lid or door is in other than a closed
position.
Subclass:
80
Particular acoustical structure (e.g., baffle):
This subclass is indented under subclass 75.1. Subject
matter including structure which mechanically modifies sound
waves.
(1) Note. This is primarily a collection of old style
mechanical phonographs with sound amplifying or modifying
structure (e.g., trumpets, baffles, etc.).
Subclass:
81
Having collapsible or expandable acoustic path:
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Subject matter
in which a portion of the acoustic structure defining the
acoustic path is movable so as to vary a dimension of the
acoustic path.
(1) Note. Typical structure include lid controlled folding
horn, and telescoping horn sections for making compact.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
181, Acoustics, subclass 178, 186, and 197 for similar
subject matter of general utility.
Subclass:
82
Having parallel acoustic paths:
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Subject matter
including structure having a plurality of acoustical energy
conducting passages through which such energy may travel
simultaneously.
(1) Note. A baffle in a horn may define several such
paths.
(2) Note. The combinations including shutters are
classified in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
181, Acoustics, subclass 184 and 185 for similar subject
matter of general utility.
Subclass:
83
EDITING OF STORED INFORMATION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter for deleting, adding, or rearranging portions
of a stored information signal on a storage medium element.
(1) Note. The change to the information signal may be
effected either by physical rearrangement of portions of the
storage medium element (e.g., cutting and splicing), or by
rerecording the information signal onto the same or another
storage medium element.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
84 for rerecording of a signal without modification.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval, 13
for similar subject matter limited to magnetic storage and
retrieval.
Subclass:
84
DUPLICATION OR COPYING (E.G., RERECORDING):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein information is retrieved from one
storage medium and subsequently stored on another distinct
storage medium.
(1) Note. It is necessary that the retrieval and storage be
effected by a dynamic transformation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
264, Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes, 106 for the method of stamping duplicate
records.
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval, 15
for copying a magnetic record.
425, Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for apparatus for stamping
duplicate record.
Subclass:
85
To diverse type of storage medium:
This subclass is indented under subclass 84. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium element onto which the information
is stored has a different configuration than the storage
medium from which the information is retrieved.
(1) Note. Included herein are devices for recording
phonograph records from magnetic tape.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
17 for converting the varied characteristic on the same
storage medium element.
Subclass:
86
STORAGE OR RETRIEVAL OF SPATIALLY RELATED ACOUSTIC SIGNALS
(E.G., STEREO):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter in which the signal to be stored is responsive
to, or the retrieved signal produces, plural audible
vibrations which have a common time base and a spatial
relationship to produce the effect of position or depth.
(1) Note. The plural signals are usually stored and
received separately and concurrently.
(2) Note. The signals are often combined (e.g., as sum or
difference signals) before storage and separated after
retrieval.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
5 for a radio combined with a storage or retrieval device in
which either may be stereophonic.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
subclass 2.
Subclass:
87
Simulated spatial effect (e.g., pseudo-stereo):
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Subject matter
in which a single reproduced signal is processed to give a
stereo effect.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
381, Electrical Audio Signal Processing Systems and Devices,
17 for Pseudo Stereo Systems in general.
Subclass:
88
With transformation or intentional distortion of information
signal (e.g., preemphasis):
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Subject matter
having signal processing prior to storage which includes an
intentional change to the information signal.
(1) Note. Such changes are often frequency dependent signal
magnitude control to compensate apparatus characteristic
differences between the storage and the retrieval device.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
133 for similar subject matter for electro-mechanical
recording, not restricted to plural audio signals.
174 for signal modification not restricted to plural audio
signals, nor any particular type of storage or retrieval.
Subclass:
89
Quadraphonic:
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Subject matter
in which four or more channels are stored or retrieved.
Subclass:
90
Including modulated subchannel signal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 89. Subject matter
wherein at least one channel or combined signal modulates an
A.C. wave prior to storage, or demodulation of such wave
after retrieval.
(1) Note. Frequently, both a direct wave and a modulated
wave are stored upon the same track to permit storage of four
channels on two tracks.
Subclass:
91
Having distinct electrical channels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Subject matter
having a separate electrical circuit for each channel, each
of said circuits having no common electrical elements other
than for power supply.
Subclass:
92
Including distinct storage tracks on record medium:
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Subject matter
wherein the paths of the transducer over the record medium
for each channel are physically separated.
Subclass:
93
SYSTEMS HAVING PLURAL PHYSICALLY DISTINCT INDEPENDENT TRACKS
ON A SINGLE STORAGE MEDIUM SURFACE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter having a storage medium element with plural
spaced apart information modulated tracks.
(1) Note. Adjacent sections of a single continuous spiral
track are not plural tracks; however, distinct interleaved
spirals are plural tracks for purposes of this subclass.
Subclass:
94
Having layered storage medium:
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium element has plural coextensive
surfaces, a plurality of which have storage tracks thereon,
and which tracks are each accessible for storage or retrieval
from the same side of the storage element.
Subclass:
95
Common time base (i.e., simultaneous):
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Subject matter
wherein the plural tracks are either stored or intended to be
retrieved concurrently.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
14 for simultaneous storage or retrieval of diverse types.
47 for similar subject matter in which one track stores a
control signal.
92 for plural tracks producing binaural effects.
Subclass:
96
Continuous consecutive storage or retrieval of interrupted
track for single signal (e.g., automatic reversal):
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Subject matter
wherein the plural tracks are consecutively utilized for
storage or retrieval of a continuing signal.
(1) Note. The tracks may be connected at distinct points.
(2) Note. The term "continuing signal" indicates time
continuity of the signal being stored or retrieved.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
41 for selective addressing of one of a plurality of signals
on a record medium.
98 for consecutive indexing of signal tracks not limited to
use for a time-continuous signal.
Subclass:
97
Tracks transverse to a motion component:
This subclass is indented under subclass 96. Subject matter
wherein the tracks have a component of motion transverse to
the microscopic movement of the storage medium element.
(1) Note. The transducer assembly is often movable to
obtain a higher velocity of relative motion than that of the
storage medium.
Subclass:
98
Indexing to discrete signal tracks (e.g., consecutive, by
chance):
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Subject matter
wherein selection of the information modulated track is made
by starting a storage or retrieval operation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
41 for such subject matter with designation of track.
65 for similar subject matter utilized in a toy or novelty
device.
Subclass:
99
SPECIFIC DETAIL OF INFORMATION HANDLING PORTION OF SYSTEM:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter having at least one step or element of
information signal processing particularly described.
(1) Note. Nominal recitation of a signal processing step or
element to show relationship to mechanical structure will be
classified with such mechanical structure.
(2) Note. Information processing methods, structure, and
circuitry, not limited to information storage and retrieval,
are each classified in the appropriate class therefor.
Subclass:
100
Radiation beam modification of or by storage medium:
This subclass is indented under subclass 99. Subject matter
wherein the information signal is stored on or retrieved from
the storage medium by a beam of radiant energy which is
modulated by the information signal either (a) to store the
information on a radiant energy sensitive storage medium, or
(b) by a radiant energy controlling storage medium for
subsequent retrieval by sensing of the radiant energy.
Subclass:
101
Invisible radiation (e.g., electron beam or X-ray):
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein the radiant energy is either (a) radiation outside
the visible spectrum (4000-7000A5), or (b) a subatomic
particle (e.g., electron) beam.
(1) Note. A charged particle (e.g., electron) beam may be
considered either invisible radiation or a particular
electrical current depending upon the manner in which such a
beam interacts with the storage medium.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
126 for storage or retrieval by an electron beam modifying
or being controlled by storage medium element charge.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
250, Radiant Energy, appropriate subclasses for invisible
radiant energy devices or systems, in general.
Subclass:
102
Multiplex:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein a single radiation beam simultaneously stores or
retrieves a plurality of independent signals on a single
track of the storage medium element.
(1) Note. Each signal may modulate different ranges of
value of a property (e.g., frequency, polarization) of the
radiation beam; or each signal may modulate the radiation
beam in distinct discrete time intervals.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
359, Optics: Systems (Including Communication) and Elements,
115 for a multiplex arrangement for optical communications.
Subclass:
103
Holos:graphic:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium is a three-dimensional coherent
image.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
359, Optics: Systems (Including Communication) and Elements,
1 for holos:graphic systems and elements, in general.
365, Static Information Storage and Retrieval, subclass 125,
216, and 235 for holos:graphic static storage or retrieval of
information.
Subclass:
104
Ribbon light modulator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
including a flat flexible electrical conductor variably
blocking the optical path in accordance with an information
current flowing therethrough.
Subclass:
105
Penumbra or push-pull optical system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein the optical path has either (a) variably superimposed
shadows, or (b) complementarily varying beams.
Subclass:
106
Optical feedback:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
having intelligence signal processing circuitry which
includes a radiation beam link from a later point in such
circuitry to a preceding point in such circuitry.
Subclass:
107
Ground noise suppression, signal envelope, or plural optical
modulation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein provision is made to suppress spurious signals caused
by graininess of the film and emulsion; or the storage medium
has an additional signal representative of the average signal
level, or has a plurality of characteristics varied.
Subclass:
108
Color:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
in which the radiant energy beam modifies, or is modified by
the storage medium in a selectively variable frequency
dependent manner within the visible spectrum (i.e.,
4000-7000Ao).
Subclass:
109
With diffraction (e.g., pits, grating):
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein the radiant energy beam is deflected by the edge of
an object by other than reflection or refraction.
Subclass:
110
By polarization:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein the direction of the electric field component of the
radiant energy beam is restricted.
Subclass:
111
Spiral or helical track:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein the path along which the information is stored or
retrieved has plural, curved turns about an axis of rotation
of the storage medium.
Subclass:
112
With particular imaging element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
including an element modifying the direction of the radiant
energy beam and capable of focussing the beam to form an
image.
(1) Note. The image is generally of the beam source or of
the storage medium.
(2) Note. Planar mirrors are not classifiable herein.
Subclass:
113
With medium contacting drum or gate in optical system (e.g.,
sound head):
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
including an element in or adjacent to the beam path which
positions the storage medium and has either a linear or
cylindrical contacting surface.
Subclass:
114
Movable roller support for optical path:
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Subject matter
in which the element for positioning the storage medium is a
rotatably mounted drum or roller.
Subclass:
115
With driving or stabilizing mechanism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Subject matter
further including driving, movable, or other elements for
controlling or smoothing the motion of the storage medium.
Subclass:
116
Light intensity adjustment or maintenance:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
including modification of the beam source to obtain a desired
or constant intensity.
Subclass:
117
Having movable shutter or light gate:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
having a variably positioned radiation blocking element in
the radiation beam path.
(1) Note. The position is generally varied by the
information signal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
104 for a ribbon type light modulator.
Subclass:
118
With detail, configuration, or adjunct of element having slit
or aperture in radiation path:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
having the structure, shape, or cooperating device of an
element blocking all but a limited area of the radiant energy
beam.
Subclass:
119
With movement of optical beam (e.g., galvanometer):
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Subject matter
further including periodic variation of the beam position.
Subclass:
120
Having particular radiation sensor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein structural detail of the beam responsive element is
particularly described.
Subclass:
121
With particular light source (e.g., laser, CRT wit
phosphor):
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
including either structural detail of a light source, or a
light source characterized by a function or relationship
additional to conventional light emission.
(1) Note. An additional function or relationship would
include light coherence or light position control.
(2) Note. The CRT with phosphor herein has position control
other than for generating or following plural tracks in the
storage medium.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
257, Active Solid-State Devices (e.g., Transistors,
Solid-State Diodes), subclass 13, 79 through 103 and 918 for
incoherent light emitting injection luminescent devices, and
subclasses 80-85 for semiconductor light emitting sources
combined with semiconductor light responsive devices.
Subclass:
122
Solid state:
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter
wherein the light source is a solid element emitting light
when excited by an electric signal.
(1) Note. Such device are often semiconductive.
Subclass:
123
Glow lamps:
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter
wherein the light source is a gas discharge device for
electric current.
Subclass:
124.01
With details of electrical signal processing:
This subclass is indented under 100. Subject matter further
including a particularly described step or structure of
electrical modification of the information signal.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
48 for information signal processing responsive to a control
signal that determines a parameter of the information
signal.
59 for information signal processing wherein the signal is a
binary signal.
Subclass:
124.02
With transducing multiple tracks:
This subclass is indented under 124.01. Subject matter
wherein the information signal is processed during
information signal storage on or retrieval from a plurality
of tracks on a storage medium element.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
95 For information signal processing wherein the information
signal are either stored or intended to be retrieved
concurrently from plural tracks.
Subclass:
124.03
With transducing using plural beams:
This subclass is indented under 124.01. wherein the
information signal is processed during information signal
storage or retrieval using a plurality of light beams.
Subclass:
124.04
Modulating or demodulating:
This subclass is indented under 124.01. Subject matter
including step or structure to perform transformation of an
input signal into a recording signal by varying amplitude,
frequency, or phase using a carrier signal for storage or
reverse transformation of a signal reproduced from a storage
medium.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
329, Demodulators, appropriate subclasses for frequency,
phase, and amplitude demodulation, per se.
332, Modulators, appropriate subclasses for frequency, phase,
and amplitude modulation, per se.
348, Television, subclass 724 for modulating television
signal.
375, Pulse or Digital Communication, subclasses 271-284,
302-308, and 322-337 for frequency or phase modulated carrier
wave pulse, and subclasses 268, 320, and 353 for pulse
amplitude modulation in communication systems, per se.
Subclass:
124.05
Integrating or sampling:
This subclass is indented under 124.01. Subject matter
including step or structure to obtain an integral value over
time or an instantaneous value of an information signal.
Subclass:
124.06
Compressing or decompressing:
This subclass is indented under 124.01. Subject matter
including step or structure to perform transformation of an
input signal into a recording signal by reducing an amount
thereof for storage or reverse transformation of a signal
reproduced from a storage medium.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
386, Television Signal Processing for Dynamic Recording or
Reproducing, subclass 27 and 33 for compressing or
decompressing of color television signal, and subclasses
109-112 for compressing or decompressing of black and white
television signal.
Subclass:
124.07
Auxiliary information arrangement processing (e.g., block
headers, subcode, or interpolated information, etc.):
This subclass is indented under 124.01. Subject matter
whereas the information signal is ordered with a particular
distribution on a medium to include supplemental information
(e.g., block headers, subcode, or interpolated information,
etc. ).
Subclass:
124.08
Sectioned information processing (e.g., lengths, frames, or
blocks, etc.):
This subclass is indented under 124.01. Subject matter
including step or structure to subdivide an information
signal into portions of similar repetitive characteristic
(e.g., lengths, frames, blocks, etc.) for storage or to
eliminate the subdivisions of the information signal during
retrieval.
Subclass:
124.09
Multiplexing or demultiplexing:
This subclass is indented under 124.01. Subject matter
including step or structure to perform transformation of
plural input signals into a recording signal by combining for
storage or reverse transformation of a signal reproduced from
a storage medium.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
370, Multiplex Communications, appropriate subclasses for
multiplexing and demultiplexing of communications in
general.
Subclass:
124.1
Gain processing:
This subclass is indented under 124.01. Subject matter
including step or structure to vary the amplification of an
information signal.
Subclass:
124.11
Of retrieved signal:
This subclass is indented under 124.1. Subject matter
wherein the information signal is a signal reproduced from a
storage medium.
Subclass:
124.12
Of signals obtained from photo-detector components:
This subclass is indented under 124.11. Subject matter
wherein the retrieved signal is obtained from output signals
from a plurality of segments of a photo-detector.
Subclass:
124.13
With specific frequency or frequency range:
This subclass is indented under 124.11. Subject matter
including gain processing of the retrieved signal at a
distinct frequency or within a distinct frequency domain.
Subclass:
124.14
Rate, phase, or transient processing:
This subclass is indented under 124.01. Subject matter
including step or structure to adjust the frequency, phase,
or oscillation characteristic of the information signal.
Subclass:
124.15
Level detecting using reference signal:
This subclass is indented under 124.01. Subject matter
including step or structure to detect an amplitude of an
information signal by comparison with a signal that provides
a measuring standard.
Subclass:
125
Having photos:graphic storage medium (e.g., variable density
or area):
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium contains a component subject to a
radiation induced chemical change, and not classified in a
preceding subclass.
(1) Note. The resultant change may take the form of a
variation in optical transmissivity or optical track width.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
399, Electrophotography, subclass 10 for storage of data on
the operation of an electrophotos:graphic device (i.e., log
report) and subclass 83 for job mode selection with memory.
Subclass:
126
Electrical modification or sensing of storage medium (e.g.,
capacitive, resistive, electrostatic charge):
This subclass is indented under subclass 99. Subject matter
wherein the information signal is stored or retrieved by
either (a) modulating an electrical property of the storage
medium by an electrical transducer, or (b) sensing an
electrical property of the storage medium by a transducer
electrically related thereto.
(1) Note. Electrical properties may include charge,
capacitance, etc.
(2) Note. A charged particle (e.g., electron) beam may be
considered either invisible radiation or electrical current
depending upon the manner in which such a beam interacts with
the storage medium.
Subclass:
127
Mechanical modification or sensing of storage medium:
This subclass is indented under subclass 99. Subject matter
wherein the information signal is stored or retrieved by
either (a) modulating a mechanical property of the storage
medium by a mechanical effect produced by the transducing
assembly, or (b) sensing a mechanical property of the storage
medium by a transducing assembly mechanically related
thereto.
Subclass:
128
With electrical information signal processing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 127. Subject matter
including some detail of handling or control of the
electrical signal input to or output of the transducing
assembly.
(1) Note. Mere mention of connecting means, or wires along
the tone arm is not classifiable here.
Subclass:
129
From information modulated oscillator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 128. Subject matter
including a source of oscillations controlled or otherwise
modulated by the transducing assembly to produce an A.C.
signal with an information related parameter.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
8 for similar subject matter combined with a radio.
Subclass:
130
Sensing of elastic deformation or relaxation of storage
medium (e.g., skid type):
This subclass is indented under subclass 128. Subject matter
including a probe which couples the transducer assembly to
the storage medium to cause deformation and to sense the
restoring force thereto.
Subclass:
131
Bidirectional information flow (e.g., record/replay
switching):
This subclass is indented under subclass 128. Subject matter
wherein the signal processing is switchable between a storage
and a retrieval mode of information handling.
(1) Note. Typical systems classified here may have an
amplifier which is switched between recording and playback
modes.
Subclass:
132
Recording:
This subclass is indented under subclass 128. Subject matter
limited to signal processing for storing information.
Subclass:
133
With transformation or intentional distortion of information
signal (e.g., compensation for velocity variation with
diameter):
This subclass is indented under subclass 132. Subject matter
wherein the processing includes some intended change in a
characteristic of the information signal.
(1) Note. The magnitude control of high frequencies in the
information signal (e.g., Dolby) is classified here.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88 for similar subject matter for stereophonic systems.
Subclass:
134
With particular amplification characteristic or signal
control circuitry (e.g., muting):
This subclass is indented under subclass 128. Subject matter
having either (a) an amplifier with a particular
characteristic (e.g., band-pass), or (b) circuitry for
control of a characteristic of the electrical information
signal.
(1) Note. A nominally recited amplifier, of itself, is
insufficient for classification herein.
(2) Note. Particular control circuitry may be by a switch
or a circuitry subsystem, such as muting.
Subclass:
135
Specified structure of electrical transducing assembly:
This subclass is indented under subclass 127. Subject matter
including some structural detail of the storage element
modifying or sensing device which includes the combination of
a complete electricity-force conversion element and a storage
medium coupling element.
(1) Note. This may include the subcombination of such a
modulating or sensing device, of itself.
(2) Note. Where the modulating or sensing device is
described only by name, e.g., "a stylus driving a pickup",
without any detail thereof, classification is determined by
the combination of such a nominally recited device with the
other elements recited.
(3) Note. Where a tone arm is recited with details of the
modulating or sensing device, classification is in this or
one of the indented subclasses; however, such recitation in
further combination with storage medium support or motion
production, or with particular circuitry will be classified
in the appropriate preceding subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
170 for stylus coupling devices, in general.
215 and 244+, for tone arm devices absent detail of the
modifying or sensing device.
Subclass:
136
Multichannel (stereo cartridge):
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Subject matter
wherein one or more transducing assemblies provide a
plurality of independent outputs.
(1) Note. The subject matter of this subclass, as a
"stereophonic transducer", is a subcombination of the stereo
of subclasses 86+ above.
Subclass:
137
By stress application to solid transducing element (e.g.,
piezoelectric):
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Subject matter
wherein a stylus is coupled to a relatively static transducer
element which responds to pressure or other force.
(1) Note. Typical transducer elements will be
piezoelectric, electrostrictive, solid state pressure
responsive devices, or the like. The term "relatively
static" refers to the absence of translatory motion of the
transducer element, as a whole.
Subclass:
138
With adjustable or replaceable stylus coupling structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 137. Subject matter
wherein the linkage between stylus and transducer permits
selectable change between styli, or facilitates removal and
replacement of a stylus assembly.
(1) Note. Typical selectable change is a lever control of
either of two differently sized styli.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
171 for a stylus holder with stylus interchanging
structure.
Subclass:
139
With details of damping or compliance:
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Subject matter
wherein an element of the transducing assembly is specified
to have either a desired rigidity or stiffness, or
elasticity, or absorption as to a dynamic characteristic.
(1) Note. The element having a desired elasticity or
absorption may be anywhere in the transducing assembly or
support structure, with a control of vibration or resonance.
(2) Note. The stiffness or compliance is usually formed in
the stylus lever.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
170 for damping or compliance details of a stylus holder or
linkage thereof.
Subclass:
140
Plural styli:
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Subject matter
wherein the mechanical force applying structure includes more
than one stylus.
(1) Note. A typical device classified here may have styli
of different sizes coupling the storage medium to a monaural
cartridge or pickup, with a lever to selectably engage one
stylus with the storage medium.
Subclass:
141
Plural alternative or with signal handling adjunct:
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Subject matter
including several transducers only one of which is operative
at any time; or an additional device directly cooperating
with the transducer for processing either an information
signal, or another signal in its place.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
1 for a system having an alternative signal.
129 for an electromechanical system having switching between
a storage and a retrieval mode of operation.
136 for plural concurrently operative transducers.
Subclass:
142
Stylus controlled optical element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Subject matter
wherein the stylus is coupled to an element which controls or
affects light.
(1) Note. Typical optical elements may be a vane or mask,
or a mirror, in a beam of light.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
359, Optics: Systems (Including Communication) and Elements,
appropriate subclasses for particular optical elements.
Subclass:
143
Electron tube:
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Subject matter
wherein the stylus is coupled to an element which affects
operation of an electron tube.
(1) Note. The operation of the electron tube may be
affected by either external (e.g., magnet) or internal (e.g.,
grid) elements.
Subclass:
144
Electret or piezoelectric:
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Subject matter
wherein the transducer element has a bound electrostatic
charge or is otherwise an electrostatic generator.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
307, Electrical Transmission or Interconnection Systems,
subclass 400 for electret systems in general.
310, Electrical Generator or Motor Structure, 311 for
piezoelectric generators.
Subclass:
145
Semiconductive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Subject matter
including a force responsive element having an electrical
conductivity intermediate that of a conductor and of an
insulator.
(1) Note. The element may have a potential barrier layer
therein.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
128 for such subject matter with additional information
processing circuitry.
144 for piezoelectric semiconductive transducer assemblies.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
257, Active Solid-State Devices (e.g., Transistors,
Solid-State Diodes), subclass 108 and 414-420 for devices
responsive to nonelectrical signals, including pressure.
327, Miscellaneous Active Electrical Nonlinear Devices,
Circuits, and Systems, 509 for miscellaneous externally
effected circuits.
Subclass:
146
Magnetic field variation (e.g., magnetostrictive):
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Subject matter
wherein the electrical transducer has magnetic field
variation related to the information signal.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
310, Electrical Generator or Motor Structure, appropriate
subclasses for generator structure of general utility.
Subclass:
147
Moving signal coil:
This subclass is indented under subclass 146. Subject matter
wherein the information signal is generated by, or causes
movement of, a coil rigidly connected to the stylus within a
magnetic field.
Subclass:
148
Variable reluctance:
This subclass is indented under subclass 146. Subject matter
wherein the magnetic field variation is caused by a
stylus-linked portion of the magnetic field circuit.
Subclass:
149
Fixed coil surrounding fixed part of magnetic path:
This subclass is indented under subclass 148. Subject matter
wherein the information signal is generated in a winding
about a stationary portion of the magnetic field circuit.
Subclass:
150
Capacitive or electrolytic liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Subject matter
wherein the transducer includes a liquid which is specified
as having dielectric or conductive properties.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
338, Electrical Resistors, 80 for mechanically variable
resistors, in general.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, 280 for
externally variable capacitors, in general.
Subclass:
151
Electrostatic or capacitive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Subject matter
wherein the transducer includes an electric field and
electrodes related thereto.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, 277 for
variable capacitors, in general.
Subclass:
152
Variable resistance:
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Subject matter
wherein the transducer has an electric circuit element, the
resistance of which is varied in accordance with the
information.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
323, Electricity: Power Supply or Regulation Systems, 291
and especially 298+ for variable resistance controlled
circuits not limited to stylus control of the resistance.
338, Electrical Resistors, 68 for mechanically variable
resistors, in general.
Subclass:
153
Including treatment to facilitate storage (e.g., storage
medium softening):
This subclass is indented under subclass 127. Subject matter
including treatment of the storage medium surface to produce
a modification in a physical characteristic thereof.
(1) Note. Examples of such treatment include softening of
the storage medium and erasure of a previous track by
scraping or abrading.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
82, Turning, subclass 1.12 for record disc erasing not
combined with mechanical storage thereon.
264, Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes, subclass 36.13 for a process of record disc
erasing by shaping, not combined with mechanical storage
thereon.
Subclass:
154
Heating (e.g., heated stylus):
This subclass is indented under subclass 153. Subject matter
including the application of heat to the storage medium.
(1) Note. The heat may be applied indirectly, e.g., through
the stylus.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
219, Electric Heating, appropriate subclasses for electric
heating of general utility.
Subclass:
155
Mechanical conversion to or from sound:
This subclass is indented under subclass 127. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium sensing or modulating element is
mechanically coupled to a sound transmitting or responsive
solid element (e.g., diaphragm), so as to directly couple the
elements.
(1) Note. The sensing or modulating element is usually in
physical contact with the storage element.
(2) Note. The term "mechanical" includes a fluidic
coupling.
(3) Note. Such devices with sound boxes or acoustical tone
arms are classified here, however, the subcombination limited
thereto are classified in the indented subclasses 157-169.
Subclass:
156
Including fluid coupling in force linkage:
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Subject matter
including two diaphragms coupled by an enclosed fluid.
Subclass:
157
Sound box with mounting structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Subject matter
limited to a stylus coupled acoustical resonator and mounting
means therefor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
155 for similar structure combined with storage medium
support or movement device.
Subclass:
158
Acoustical tone arm:
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Subject matter
limited to a tone arm with acoustical coupling structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
155 for such structure combined with storage medium support
or movement devices.
244 for tone arms, in general.
Subclass:
159
Having plural acoustical paths:
This subclass is indented under subclass 158. Subject matter
in which the acoustical coupling structure includes a
plurality of acoustical energy conducting passages through
which such energy may travel simultaneously.
(1) Note. Such structure may include two acoustical
conduits driven in a mechanical push-pull relationship by a
single stylus.
Subclass:
160
Sound box:
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Subject matter
limited in extent to a stylus coupled acoustical resonator, a
casing therefor, or a mechanical linkage used therein.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
155 for such structure combined with storage medium support
or movement devices.
Subclass:
161
With interchangeable styli:
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Subject matter
having plural styli selectively coupled in cooperative
relationship with the acoustical resonator.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
171 for stylus holders with interchangeable styli, in
general.
Subclass:
162
Including stylus pivoted from fixed casing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Subject matter
having a stylus having a tracking motion limited to an
angular displacement about its support from an immovable
casing.
Subclass:
163
With sound modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Subject matter
having acoustical structure for amplifying, muffling or
filtering the incident or reproduce sound.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
167 for mechanical amplification of sound box vibration.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
181, Acoustics, for structure to handle sound, in general.
Subclass:
164
Convertible between lateral and perpendicular modulation
modes:
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Subject matter
including structure to cause or respond to stylus vibrations
in two planes, one being normal and the other parallel to the
record medium surface.
(1) Note. Such structure in a reproducer may be unitary or
alternative.
Subclass:
165
Perpendicular mechanical modulation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Subject matter
wherein the sound box causes or is responsive to stylus
vibration in a plane normal to the surface of the storage
medium.
Subclass:
166
Recording:
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Subject matter
wherein the stylus modulates the storage medium by cutting
its surface.
Subclass:
167
With mechanical amplification (e.g., friction coupling):
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Subject matter
having structure to increase the amplitude of the mechanical
vibrations of the elements coupling the stylus and acoustical
resonator.
(1) Note. Such structure is often a frictional linkage to
an auxiliary vibrating structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
163 for sound boxes having acoustical, rather than
mechanical, amplification.
Subclass:
168
Floating weight:
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Subject matter
having a stylus supporting lever with counterbalancing weight
structure to minimize or eliminate the weight applied by the
stylus.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
254 for tone arm counterbalancing weight structure, in
general.
Subclass:
169
Lateral mechanical modulation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Subject matter
wherein the sound box causes or is responsive to stylus
vibration in a plane tangent, or parallel the surface of the
storage medium.
Subclass:
170
Stylus holder or shield:
This subclass is indented under subclass 127. Subject matter
limited in extent to a support or a protecting device for the
storage medium engaging element with or without such
element.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
135 for such holders combined with electrical transducing
structure.
Subclass:
171
With structure to interchange styli:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Subject matter
having structure to select one of a plurality of styli for
engagement with the storage medium.
Subclass:
172
By replacement:
This subclass is indented under subclass 171. Subject matter
wherein each one of the plurality of styli successively
engage the storage medium.
(1) Note. These are generally single use type needles and
are often in cartridge or magazine type containers.
Subclass:
173
Stylus:
This subclass is indented under subclass 127. Subject matter
limited in extent to the storage medium engaging element.
Subclass:
174
Including signal modification:
This subclass is indented under subclass 99. Subject matter
including significant detail of changing some parameter of
the information signal.
(1) Note. The parameter change must modify the relationship
among plural signal parameters, other than a multiplication
of the magnitude. Therefore simple amplification is not
classified in this or its indented subclasses, but a change
in degree of amplification (e.g., automatic volume control,
compression) would be so classified.
(2) Note. Circuitry for changing signal parameters, in
general, is classified in the class containing the particular
circuitry structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88 for similar subject matter in a stereophonic retrieval
system.
124 for similar subject matter in a radiation beam retrieval
system.
134 for similar subject matter in an electrically actuated
mechanical recording system.
Subclass:
175
Frequency dependent (e.g., separation):
This subclass is indented under subclass 174. Subject matter
wherein the signal parameter is varied as a function of the
signal frequency.
(1) Note. Variation of distribution of differing frequency
components of the information signal to different ones of a
plurality of channels (e.g., crossover networks) are
classified herein.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
379, Telephonic Communications, appropriate subclasses for
similar subject matter not restricted to storage or
retrieval.
Subclass:
176
DYNAMIC MECHANISM SUBSYSTEM:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter including a support for either a transducer
assembly or a storage medium, or driving means for such a
support.
(1) Note. Nominal recitation of a signal processing step or
structure to show relationship to mechanical structure will
be classified in this or indented subclasses.
(2) Note. Subcombinations and elements of such structure
peculiar thereto and not elsewhere classified are also in
this or indented subclasses.
Subclass:
177
Having stationary storage medium:
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Subject
matter wherein all of the relative motion for storage or
retrieval is produced by the transducer assembly.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
63 for such reproducers used for a toy or novelty device.
Subclass:
178
Access of multiple storage elements (e.g., record changer):
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Subject matter
having production of additional motion of the transducer or
storage medium to change the storage medium used for storage
or retrieval.
(1) Note. Movement of the transducer mounting (e.g., tone
arm) is so interrelated with multiple storage access, that
documents classified herein will not ordinarily be
cross-referenced to powered transducer drive in subclasses
215+.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30 for similar subject matter having designation or
selection of storage medium to be used for storage or
retrieval.
Subclass:
179
Cylindrical storage element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium has an elongate axially symmetric
tubular configuration with a closed curved surface and an
axis of rotation coincident with its axis or symmetry.
Subclass:
180
Flexible disc:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
wherein the accessed storage medium is a disc subject to
extensive deformation without any permanent effect thereto.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval, 99.02
for a floppy disk loading or ejecting mechanism in a
magnetic recorder or reproducer.
Subclass:
181
Stack height adjustment for tone arm or turntable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
for storage discs and having a tone arm and a turntable
having a spindle, and having structure to modify the position
of the tone arm or the turntable along the spindle axis to
compensate for changes in the height of stacks or discs on
the turntable.
(1) Note. The stack height need not be sensed directly, but
may be inferred by the number of disc changes.
Subclass:
182
Numerical count shut-off:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
including termination of operation in response to completion
of a settable number of storage or retrieval operations.
Subclass:
183
Cam shaft transverse to turntable spindle axis of record
changer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
having a tone arm and a turntable for storage discs with a
spindle and rotatable shaft with mechanical actuating
surfaces positioned below the turntable with an axis
intersecting the spindle and a support for the tone arm such
that the actuating surfaces are below and proximate both the
spindle and tone arm support.
Subclass:
184
Tone arm position control by sensing of disc (e.g., disc or
hole size):
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
including moving a tone arm away from the path of storage
disc movement during disc changing and moving the tone arm to
the starting position on the disc to be placed in use after
changing in accordance with a sensed dimension indicative of
the starting position.
(1) Note. Such dimension may be the diameter of the disc or
of a spindle aperture therein.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
217 for tone arm set down control responsive to disc
sensing, in general.
Subclass:
185
Disc size sensor on or using tone arm:
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Subject matter
wherein the size of the disc to be placed in use is
determined by a sensing element mounted on, or by direct disc
contact with, the tone arm.
Subclass:
186
Stepped tone arm stop element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Subject matter
in which the tone arm starting position is determined by a
stop element with a surface having a stair-step
configuration.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, 138 for limit stop
devices of general utility.
Subclass:
187
Disc size sensor in feed path:
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Subject matter
in which a portion of the sensor is in the path of storage
disc movement.
(1) Note. By contact with the disc, the disc size then sets
the tone arm starting position.
Subclass:
188
Disc size sensor at turntable position:
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Subject matter
in which a portion of the sensor is adjacent the operative
location of the disc.
(1) Note. The sensor is usually adjacent the turntable and
active in the plane of the disc as it is normally used.
Subclass:
189
Turntable speed control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
having adjustment or change of motion of a rotating
horizontal surface which supports and imparts motion to a
storage medium disc.
Subclass:
190
By sensing of disc (e.g., disc or hole size):
This subclass is indented under subclass 189. Subject matter
wherein the nominal rotational speed of the turntable is
selected in accordance with a sensed parameter (e.g.,
dimension) of the disc.
Subclass:
191
Storage disc fed to and removed from turntable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
having a turntable and a supply of storage discs in which
each of the discs is consecutively moved from the supply to
the turntable prior to storage or retrieval and subsequently
removed from the turntable to another location.
(1) Note. The disc may be turned to the original supply to
another group of discs, or to some indeterminate location.
Subclass:
192
Plural disc holder having unitary separating structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Subject matter
wherein the disc supply includes a casing having distinct
sections in which each disc is mounted, the sections being
separated by material structurally integral with said
casing.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
36 for this subject matter combined with storage element
designation.
Subclass:
193
Grouped removal with sequential feed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Subject matter
wherein the discs are individually moved to the turntable,
and a plurality of discs in the form of a stack are removed
from the turntable together.
Subclass:
194
Coplanar storage:
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Subject matter
wherein the disc position in the supply, before movement, is
in the same plane as the turntable surface position after
movement.
Subclass:
195
Both side of disc used:
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Subject matter
wherein both sides of a storage disc are accessed for
information storage and retrieval without operator
intervention.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
199 for this subject matter with other types of record
changers.
Subclass:
196
Separate motors operate turntable and disc change mechanism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
having a turntable for storage discs, the turntable and
structure to change the storage discs being powered by
separate motors.
Subclass:
197
Plural turntables:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
having a plurality of turntables, each being consecutively
utilized for storage or retrieval.
Subclass:
198
Plural tone arms:
This subclass is indented under subclass 197. Subject matter
having separate transducer assembly support arms for
different turntables or groups thereof.
Subclass:
199
Both sides of disc used:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
wherein both sides of a storage disc are accessed for
information storage and retrieval without operator
intervention.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
195 for similar subject matter with both feed and removal of
disc from turntable.
Subclass:
200
By inverting disc:
This subclass is indented under subclass 199. Subject matter
wherein the disc surface used is changed by turning over the
disc element.
Subclass:
201
Discs sequentially removed from turntable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
wherein storage discs are stacked on a turntable and are
individually removed subsequent to the storage or retrieval
operation.
Subclass:
202
Discs sequentially fed to turntable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
wherein the storage discs are individually fed to the
turntable prior to the storage or retrieval operation so as
to be stacked upon discs which have previously been used.
Subclass:
203
Tone arm set down adjustment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 202. Subject matter
including controllable placement of the transducer assembly
on the storage disc.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
184 for such adjustment controlled by disc sensing.
216 for similar subject matter not restricted to multiple
element access devices.
Subclass:
204
By edge controlled feeding of disc:
This subclass is indented under subclass 202. Subject matter
including moving the disc to the turntable by applying force
to the perimeter of the disc.
Subclass:
205
With feed cooperating structure on spindle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 204. Subject matter
wherein the spindle has structure or configuration
cooperating with the disc force application to assist in disc
feeding.
Subclass:
206
By center hold feeding of disc (e.g., spindle drop):
This subclass is indented under subclass 202. Subject matter
including moving the disc to the turntable by applying or
releasing force adjacent center holes in such discs.
(1) Note. The discs are often stacked on a portion of the
spindle prior to storage or retrieval.
Subclass:
207
Support mechanism adapter for large hole records on small
hole spindles:
This subclass is indented under subclass 206. Subject matter
having an element extending radially, in at least one
direction, from the spindle to engage disc apertures larger
than the spindle diameter.
(1) Note. The adapters, per se, are also classified
herein.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
290 for disc hole size adapters, in general.
Subclass:
208
Having specified spindle structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 206. Subject matter
including detail of the spindle mechanism structure.
Subclass:
209
Umbrella type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 208. Subject matter
including plural, laterally extendable elements mounted on
and disposed angularly about the spindle, which elements
control and support the disc stack.
Subclass:
210
Having shoulder and ejector lever:
This subclass is indented under subclass 208. Subject matter
wherein the disc is positioned by a ledge formed on the
spindle and a lever element is used to feed the disc to the
turntable.
Subclass:
211
With edge stabilizer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 210. Subject matter
wherein the disc is held adjacent the edge by an element to
steady the disc to be fed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
205 for an edge controlled disc feed with cooperating
spindle support structure.
Subclass:
212
Auxiliary structure (e.g., shut-off preventer, disc spacer):
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Subject matter
having or limited to an element added to modify the operation
of the record changer or mechanism.
(1) Note. Examples of such elements are discs for spacing,
a clip or other device for defeating last-record shut-off.
(2) Note. Subcombination of this nature peculiar to record
changers are classified here.
Subclass:
213
Additional motion or storage element support to effect
tracking:
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Subject matter
wherein the structure supporting the storage medium has a
motion component additional to the relative motion along the
path of motion, which additional motion component maintains
each instantaneous position of the storage medium having its
characteristic sensed at the location of a substantially
stationary transducer.
Subclass:
214
Cylindrical storage element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 213. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium has an elongate axially symmetric
tubular configuration with a closed curved surface and an
axis of rotation coincident with its axis of symmetry.
Subclass:
215
Having power driven transducer assembly:
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Subject matter
having a source of power which applies a force to drive the
transducer assembly along a desired path.
(1) Note. The driving force is often applied to the tone
arm.
(2) Note. The incidental driving force resulting from
stylus engagement with an information carrying groove is not
classified herein.
Subclass:
216
Having tone arm set-down control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 215. Subject matter
wherein the driving force places the transducer assembly on a
storage disc.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
184 for similar subject matter in an automatic record
changer.
Subclass:
217
By disc sensing (e.g., by sensed disc or hole size):
This subclass is indented under subclass 216. Subject matter
wherein the position of the placement is determined by a
sensed characteristic of the disc, such as disc or hole
size.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
184 for similar subject matter in an automatic record
changer.
Subclass:
218
Having groove engaging driving element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 215. Subject matter
wherein a groove engaging element, distinct from any
information coupling element, provides all tracking force to
the transducer assembly.
(1) Note. Examples of the subject matter classified in this
subclass include unmodulated grooves and groove coupling
elements transmitting only tracking motion.
Subclass:
219
With drive transverse to storage track during storage or
retrieval:
This subclass is indented under subclass 215. Subject matter
wherein the driving force is applied during storage or
retrieval to provide or modify the motion necessary thereto.
Subclass:
220
Controlled by transducer assembly support:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter
wherein the driving force is determined by a condition (e.g.,
position, movement) of the transducer supporting structure.
(1) Note. The supporting structure is often a tone arm.
Subclass:
221
With additional drive (e.g., scanning, restoring, or
return):
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter
having a second source of driving force which produces a
different rate or direction of motion and is selectively
applied to the transducer support.
Subclass:
222
Having pivoted tone arm:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter
having a tone arm which supports the transducer assembly and
which tone arm is subject only to angular displacement at the
end opposite the transducer assembly so as to cause the
assembly to travel in a substantially arcuate path.
Subclass:
223
By lead screw:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Subject matter
wherein the driving force is applied to the transducer
assembly, or support therefor, by a rotating tubular element
having an externally extending element of helical
configuration.
Subclass:
224
With passive linear tracking:
This subclass is indented under subclass 215. Subject matter
including constraining the path of the transducer assembly
due to incidental motion from stylus engagement to a straight
line, the driving force being applied other than during
storage or retrieval.
(1) Note. This driving force is generally a restoring
force.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
249 for linear tracking absent application of driving
force.
Subclass:
225
Restoring after passive tracking:
This subclass is indented under subclass 215. Subject matter
wherein the driving force is applied after storage or
retrieval to place the transducer support at a predetermined
location.
Subclass:
226
Responsive to transducer support condition (e.g., movement or
position):
This subclass is indented under subclass 225. Subject matter
where the driving force is initiated or controlled by a
condition of the transducer assembly support (e.g., movement
or position).
(1) Note. Included herein are devices which restore a tone
arm to an initial position upon reaching lead-out groove.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
231 for tone arm operated trip devices, in general.
Subclass:
227
Numerical count replay:
This subclass is indented under subclass 226. Subject matter
including termination of storage or retrieval in response to
completion of a settable number of repetitions of the
restoring operation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
182 for numerical count shut-off in a record changer.
Subclass:
228
Controllable position:
This subclass is indented under subclass 226. Subject matter
in which either a restoring initiating or ending location of
the transducer assembly may be adjusted.
Subclass:
229
Turntable mounted template:
This subclass is indented under subclass 225. Subject matter
wherein the driving force is derived from an adjunct to the
turntable which moves the transducer support by guiding the
stylus to a restored position.
Subclass:
230
Power cueing (i.e., engage/disengage):
This subclass is indented under subclass 215. Subject matter
wherein the driving force places the transducer assembly into
or out of a storage or retrieval relationship with the
storage medium (e.g., engagement or disengagement between a
stylus and record).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
224 for such subject matter combined with linear constraint
of passive tracking.
Subclass:
231
Mechanism responsive to control structure on storage medium
sensed by transducer support (e.g., trip device):
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium has control structure thereon
which is sensed by the transducer assembly support to modify
the operation of the dynamic mechanism subsystem.
(1) Note. This control structure is often a lead-out
groove.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
47 for control by an information signal.
52 for storage medium control structure sensed by other than
the transducer assembly support.
178 for record changing devices which may be controlled by a
transducer support sensed control structure.
226 for tone arm restoring controlled by similar structure.
Subclass:
232
With turntable braking (e.g., velocity or reverse
responsive):
This subclass is indented under subclass 231. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium control structure is sensed to
control a braking device to stop turntable motion.
(1) Note. The motion of the transducer support may be
either increased, or reciprocatory, speed (velocity) for
energizing the brake control.
Subclass:
233
Mechanism condition or storage medium responsive control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Subject matter
wherein the mechanism subsystem is controlled by a condition
of an element thereof, or by a characteristic of the storage
medium.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
178 for such subject matter in a record changing device.
220 for a tone arm controlled lateral drive mechanism.
226 for a tone arm controlled restoring mechanism.
231 for a tone arm motion controlled mechanism.
Subclass:
234
With turntable braking (e.g., tone arm position
responsive):
This subclass is indented under subclass 233. Subject matter
wherein the controlled mechanism subsystem is a brake to stop
turntable motion.
(1) Note. Braking systems responsive to control structure,
such as the lead-out groove or the eccentric circle at the
end of play (center) of the disc record, are classified in
232 above.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
79 for braking controlled by a phonograph cabinet closure.
Subclass:
235
With stopping of motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Subject matter
wherein the motive power is controlled.
(1) Note. This includes electric circuit control of the
motor in addition to braking.
(2) Note. Systems using a governor controlled motor with
braking (such as a fly-weight disc) are classified here.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
243 for motive power control absent braking.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems, 362 for motor
systems having braking; and subclass 626 for motor systems
with a limit or end-stop device.
Subclass:
236
Adjustable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Subject matter
wherein the mechanism is controlled by a linkage which is
changeable to suit some desired variation (e.g., tone arm
position at which braking occurs).
Subclass:
237
With electrical control of brake:
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Subject matter
wherein the mechanism is controlled by an electrical
subsystem to control the brake.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
200, Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers, 52 and
specifically subclasses 61.4, 61.41, 61.45+ for switches used
for special applications.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, 139 for
control circuits for electromagnetic devices.
Subclass:
238
End limit sensor coupled with tone arm:
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Subject matter
wherein the mechanism is controlled by a feeler or other
element which is contacted by the tone arm or a projection
therefrom at a position at the end of play.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
236 for similar subject matter which is adjustable and which
is not cross- referenced to this subclass.
Subclass:
239
Speed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 233. Subject matter
wherein the relative motion used for producing storage or
retrieval is controlled.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
189 for similar subject matter in a record changing
mechanism.
267 for turntable speed changing, in general.
Subclass:
240
Variable radius compensation (e.g., constant interaction
speed):
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Subject matter
wherein the speed controlling condition is the radial
position of the transducing assembly.
(1) Note. Such control may be used to establish and
maintain a constant linear velocity between a storage disc
and transducing assembly.
Subclass:
241
Self-responsive (e.g., governor):
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Subject matter
wherein the relative motion is both the controlled and
controlling condition.
(1) Note. Such control may be used to maintain or limit
relative motion.
Subclass:
242
Antiskating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 233. Subject matter
wherein a controllable lateral force is applied to prevent
skidding in a direction transverse to the information track
and on the storage medium surface.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
252 for antiskating devices absent control.
Subclass:
243
Energizing circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 233. Subject matter
having an electrical circuit to supply power to at least the
subsystem and which circuit is controlled to obtain the
desired effect from the subsystem.
(1) Note. The control is often making or breaking of the
circuit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
235 for such subject matter to stop the motor combined with
braking of an element driven thereby (e.g., a turntable).
Subclass:
244
Specific detail of transducer assembly support structure
(e.g., tone arm):
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Subject matter
having particular detail of structure to maintain the
transducer assembly at one or more desired locations.
(1) Note. The holding structure may allow motion of the
transducer assembly.
(2) Note. This and indented subclasses may include nominal
recitation of information handling structure. However,
details of such structure with or without support structure
will be classified with the particular information handling
structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
158 for an acoustical tone arm.
Subclass:
245
With manual tone arm displacement adjunct (e.g., cueing):
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Subject matter
including a tone arm and structure to manually change the
location of tone arm.
(1) Note. The location change may be engagement or
disengagement with, or position change on, the storage medium
element.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
40 for a manually actuated mechanism to place the tone arm
at a designated location on the storage medium.
Subclass:
246
With viscous limiting of motion (e.g., rate damping):
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Subject matter
further including loading of the displacement motion by the
internal friction of a liquid.
Subclass:
247
Vibration or resonance suppression (e.g., damping):
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Subject matter
including suppression of undesired mechanical energy incident
upon a tone arm.
Subclass:
248
By viscous damping:
This subclass is indented under subclass 247. Subject matter
wherein the suppression of vibration is caused by
transmission of vibration through a velocity dependent
frictional force structure, which is usually a liquid.
Subclass:
249
Having linear guide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Subject matter
having a structure restricting transducer travel to a path
along a straight element.
Subclass:
250
Pivoted arm with tracking path compensation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Subject matter
wherein the transducer support structure is an arm rotatably
mounted upon pivoting structure and has structure to modify
the tracking path (e.g., pivot motion or supplemental
pivot).
(1) Note. The tracking path modification is generally to
convert the path from an arc to a straight line.
Subclass:
251
Having application of counterbalancing force:
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Subject matter
further including application of a force to modify the motion
of the transducer assembly supporting structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
215 for causing motion of transducer supporting structure.
Subclass:
252
Lateral (e.g., antiskating):
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Subject matter
wherein the additional force balances forces parallel to the
storage medium surface.
(1) Note. Such balancing of forces is often used to prevent
skidding of a storage medium contacting stylus over the
surface.
Subclass:
253
By resilient force element (e.g., spring):
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Subject matter
wherein the counterbalancing force is a displacement
dependent restoring force applied by a highly elastic
mechanical device or element.
(1) Note. Examples of such mechanical devices include a
hydraulic or pneumatic device, a coiled spring, or a block of
rubber.
Subclass:
254
Specified weight mounting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Subject matter
wherein the force applying structure includes details of a
gravitational force applying structure.
Subclass:
255
Having specified bearing structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Subject matter
including structural detail of an element permitting motion
of the transducer assembly support.
Subclass:
256
Mechanical details of cartridge mounting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Subject matter
having detail of structure for holding a cartridge containing
a stylus and transducer on a support.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
135 for such subject matter with structural detail of the
transducer or of the stylus coupling.
Subclass:
257
Rest:
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Subject matter
having or limited to structure to support a portion of the
transducer assembly support in an inoperative position.
(1) Note. The support portion of the transducer assembly
support is often support by the storage medium element during
operation.
Subclass:
258
Specific detail of storage medium support or motion
production:
This subclass is indented under subclass 176. Subject matter
having particular detail for maintaining the storage medium
at a desired location or condition of motion.
Subclass:
259
For endless web looped about plural rotatable mounts (e.g.,
belt):
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
having a plurality of rotatable elements about which a
continuous, flexible, flat storage medium element is
mounted.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
242, Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding, 324 for a machine
convertible information carrier; e.g., a magnetic tape or
image film formed in an endless loop.
Subclass:
260
For cylinder:
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
having a mounting element (e.g., mandrel) for a cylindrical
storage medium.
Subclass:
261
For pliable (e.g., floppy) disc:
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
wherein the support is particularly designed for use with a
disc subject to extensive deformation without any permanent
effect.
(1) Note. Incidental use of a support of general utility
(e.g., turntable) for a floppy disc is not classified
herein.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
180 for record changer for such discs.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval, 99.01
for a floppy disk drive mechanism in a magnetic recorder or
reproducer.
Subclass:
262
With storage medium removal adjunct:
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
further including means to remove the storage medium element
from the support or motion producing structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
77.1 for similar subject matter in a slotted cabinet.
191 and 201, for removing storage medium elements in a
multiple element access devices.
Subclass:
263
Mounting structure for support or motion producing assembly
(e.g., vibration damping):
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
with structure for keeping either of (a) the support, or (b)
the motion producing assembly, at a particular location.
Subclass:
264
Turntable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Subject matter
having a rotating platform upon which a storage medium disc
is placed.
Subclass:
265
With auxiliary turntable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 264. Subject matter
having an additional turntable and driving mechanism
therefor.
(1) Note. Speed conversion assemblies placed on a turntable
to drive another turntable at a different speed are
classified in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
197 for plural turntables for consecutive access to storage
medium elements.
Subclass:
266
Driving mechanism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 264. Subject matter
including features of an element causing or coupling motion
of the turntable.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
310, Electrical Generator or Motor Structure, appropriate
subclasses for motor structure not limited to the specific
turntable load.
Subclass:
267
Speed changing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 266. Subject matter
including an element for changing the rotational speed of the
turntable.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
189 for similar subject matter in a record changer.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
477, Interrelated Power Delivery Controls, Including Engine
Control, for interrelated control between a motor and a
transmission, clutch, or brake.
Subclass:
268
Braking:
This subclass is indented under subclass 264. Subject matter
including structure to prevent further rotation of the
turntable.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
232 for similar subject matter in which the braking is
initiated by a trip device.
234 for similar subject matter in which the braking is
initiated by the tone arm position.
Subclass:
269
Bearing structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 264. Subject matter
having particular contact structure associating the rotating
assembly with surrounding stationary support structure.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
384, Bearings, appropriate subclasses for bearing structure
of general utility.
Subclass:
270
Disc holding or locating (e.g., spindle structure):
This subclass is indented under subclass 264. Subject matter
including structure to maintain the position of the disc with
respect to the turntable.
Subclass:
271
With detail of storage medium contact structure on turntable
surface:
This subclass is indented under subclass 270. Subject matter
including detail of turntable surface which contacts and
supports the disc.
Subclass:
272
STORAGE MEDIUM STRUCTURE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein the specific structure of the
information bearing storage medium is recited.
(1) Note. A blank or starting piece not limited to storage
or retrieval is classified elsewhere, appropriate to the
actual blank. See search notes below.
(2) Note. Mention of intended use such as in the preamble
of the claim is not enough for classification in this
subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
206, Special Receptacle or Package, 307 for a container
under the class definition for removably containing an
article which includes machine readable information
registered thereon.
252, Compositions, appropriate subclasses such as for surface
lubricants.
346, Recorders, 200 for a record blank without grooves.
352, Optics: Motion Pictures, subclass 92, 102+, and 232+
for structure of storage medium structure limited to motion
pictures.
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval, 131
for structure of record medium limited to magnetic storage.
425, Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for subject matter not
including storing or information.
427, Coating Processes, appropriate subclasses for article
and process of making where not limited to a blank with an
information track.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, 44 for stock
material without an information bearing track.
Subclass:
273
Combined with diverse art structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
wherein a storage medium is combined with an element or
structure of another utility.
(1) Note. The combination is classified elsewhere when
provided for in the class for such art structure.
(2) Note. Typical diverse art structure is a page of a book
with a clear laminate carrying a phonograph recording.
Subclass:
274
Composite (e.g., package with preview record):
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
wherein several storage medium structures are related in some
particular way.
(1) Note. One form is of several annular rings snapped
together to form a large disc with chosen recorded bands.
Subclass:
275.1
Optical track structure (e.g., phase or diffracting
structure, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
wherein an information track is in the form of a variation of
light modifying structure on the storage medium element.
(1) Note. The term "light modifying structure" refers to
modification such as bending, diffraction, phase variation,
but does not include simple changes in transmissivity or
reflectivity.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44.11 93+ and 100+, for devices and systems utilizing such
storage medium elements.
284 for a layered storage medium having information
modulation of transmissivity or reflectivity.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
235, Registers, subclass 454 for optically coded record
sensors; subclass 487 for optical records, per se.
359, Optics: Systems (Including Communication) and Elements,
appropriate subclasses for light modifying structure, in
general.
Subclass:
275.2
Erasable, reversible or re-recordable:
Subject matter under 275.1 wherein the recording layer
permits information therein to be erased, reversibly recorded
over or re-recorded over.
(1) Note. The term "re-recorded over is intended to include
those conditions where the "old" data may still exist after
the "new" data is recorded onto or over the "old" data, such
as where the "new" data may be of a different nature such as
a different playback frequency or different pit size.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
13 where the recording medium storage uses a different
recording technique than for retrieval (e.g., optical
recording and magnetic reproduction), or simultaneous or
alternative types of storage or retrieval occur etc.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
359, Optics: Systems (Including Communication) and Elements,
280 and 484 for magneto-optical polarization.
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval,
subclass 114 for magneto-optic storage wherein the intensity
of the flux emanating from a record is determined by
directing a beam of polarized light at the record and
detecting the rotation of polarization caused by the flux.
365, Static Information Storage and Retrieval, subclass 122
for information masking systems which use magneto-optical
polarization; subclasses 185.01+ for floating gate memory
storage (e.g., flash memory).
Subclass:
275.3
Track data format/layout:
This subclass is indented under subclass 275.1. Subject
matter wherein a recurrent or repeated data arrangement,
pattern, sectors, or data blocks occur on the information
medium.
(1) Note. An organized pattern interrelates with an
information arrangement pattern.
(2) Note. Examples are: Pre-formatted subject matter
wherein data or certain track structure (e.g., guide grooves,
etc.) has been pre-recorded, pre-etched or pre-formatted on
the storage medium, having servo, index or address sectors or
segments or tracks set forth as to there location with
respect to other data on the storage medium; radial dependent
parameter on disc medium subject matter wherein the data or
information on a disc type storage medium has some parameter
of the signal or track structure which varies as a function
of the disc radius (e.g., pit size in some dimension varies
dependent as a function of disc radius, or CLV/constant
linear velocity format of recorded data, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44.26 for servo system operation related to disc structure
information format.
94 and 95, for systems using a storage medium element with
more than one plane of distinct tracks of recording
information.
111 for systems using a spiral or helical track.
280 where the disc thickness varies as a function of the
radius.
Subclass:
275.4
Pit/bubble/groove structure specifics:
This subclass is indented under subclass 275.1. Subject
matter wherein data is stored in the form of pits
(indentations), bubbles (protuberances) or modulation of a
groove and specifics of the pit/bubble/groove are set forth
such as its wall angles, dimensions, or phase depth.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
109 for systems using a diffraction storage medium such as
those with pits or a grating.
Subclass:
275.5
Protection (e.g., preventing damage to medium, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 275.1. Subject
matter wherein some means of guarding is provided to prevent
some undesired effect.
(1) Note. Examples include a protective cover or structure
to prevent scratches, a protective layer to prevent undesired
thermal effect or chemical reaction or unwanted optical or
recording effects, or an adhesive layer to prevent peeling.
Subclass:
276
Electrical track structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium has a track in the form of a
variation in an electrical property.
(1) Note. The term "variation in an electrical property"
refers to modification of an electric field or current, for
example, variable depth capacitive layers or variable
thickness resistive layers.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
126 for devices utilizing such storage medium elements.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
338, Electrical Resistors, 204 for resistive elements piled
between terminals; and subclass 211 for a resistive element
coated on a flexible base.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, 271 for
electrostatic capacitor structure.
Subclass:
277
Special groove (e.g., particular groove shape):
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium has a groove of specified form.
Subclass:
278
Groove acts as control system signal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter
wherein the position of the groove is modified for a
predetermined control signal.
(1) Note. Distinction should be noted between position
changes related to only storage (lateral recording) and
changes intended to control a sensor (eccentric groove for
actuating tone arm trip switch).
Subclass:
279
Guide during storage or retrieval:
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Subject matter
wherein a groove is used to position or track the interaction
element for engagement adjacent the information bearing area
of the storage medium.
(1) Note. The guide groove of this subclass is usually
unmodulated. The information area may be at the bottom of the
guide, or to one side, and may be of any of the types of
interaction classifiable in subclasses 99+.
(2) Note. Subcombinations with magnetic storage are
excluded from this class and are classified in Class 360,
subclass 128.
Subclass:
280
Specific disc profile:
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
including a disc, the thickness of which varies as a function
of the radius.
(1) Note. A typical profile will have ridges at the
circumference to space the modulated grooves from one disc to
another to avoid scratching.
Subclass:
281
With interdisc coupling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 280. Subject matter
wherein the disc includes an element which couples with a
similar element of another disc placed thereon so as to
prevent slippage between the two discs.
(1) Note. The term "element" in this subclass is intended
to include configuration of the disc, such as ridges or
serrated teeth, as well as elements additional to the disc
structure.
Subclass:
282
Specified center-hole or locating structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
wherein the locating element, whether centrally positioned or
not, is constructed in a particular way.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
16, Miscellaneous Hardware, 2.1 for bushings, in general.
249, Static Molds, 83 for nonmetallic composite casting.
384, Bearings, 276 for a bearing sleeve, or liner.
Subclass:
283
Layered (e.g., permanent protective layer):
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium has an adjacent layer.
(1) Note. This layer may be a base, or substrate, or a
loose cover layer. The loose cover layer will have a
permanent relation to the storage medium. The cover layer
which is completely removable, such as a paper sleeve for a
disk record, is classifiable in subclass 291.
Subclass:
284
Radiation beam modified or controlling (e.g., photosensitive,
optical track):
This subclass is indented under subclass 283. Subject matter
wherein at least one layer is either (a) responsive to
incident radiation to vary a characteristic of such layer, or
(b) has an information varied radiation characteristic to
control a beam of radiation.
(1) Note. The characteristics referred to above are
transmissivity or reflectivity.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
100 for a device utilizing such storage medium elements.
275.1 for a storage medium element with light modifying
structure.
Subclass:
285
With mask:
This subclass is indented under subclass 284. Subject matter
having a mask placed upon the storage medium surface to merge
between stored signals.
Subclass:
286
Laminated or unified discrete layers:
This subclass is indented under subclass 283. Subject matter
wherein the layers are fused, joined, glued, or otherwise
made into a unitary structure.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
appropriate subclasses for methods and apparatus for
assembling or making elements not limited to information
storage.
425, Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for such subject matter
absent information storage.
427, Coating Processes, appropriate subclasses for article
and process making where not limited to a blank with an
information track.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, 44 for stock
material without an information bearing track.
Subclass:
287
Flexible:
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
wherein the storage medium taken as an entirety is flexible
or bendable without breaking in normal use.
Subclass:
288
Specified material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
wherein the material of which the storage medium is made is
specifically stated.
(1) Note. Where not limited to structure of the storage
medium as classified here, the specific material is
classified either in blank or starting material, or in the
chemical class relating to such composition or material.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
252, Compositions, appropriate subclasses for starting
materials not limited to structure of the stock or starter
article.
346, Recorders, 200 for a record blank without grooves.
352, Optics: Motion Pictures, subclass 92, 102+, and 232+
for structure of storage medium structure limited to motion
picture.
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval, 131
for structure of record medium limited to magnetic storage.
425, Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for subject matter not
including storing of information.
427, Coating Processes, appropriate subclasses for article
and process of making where not limited to a blank with an
information track.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, 44 for stock
material without an information bearing track.
Subclass:
289
Adjuncts or adapters:
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Subject matter
having or limited to a separable device for use with a
storage medium.
Subclass:
290
For central area of disc (e.g., hole size or drive sticker):
This subclass is indented under subclass 289. Subject matter
wherein an element is added to the portion of a disc storage
medium adjacent the center.
(1) Note. An adapter for making small holes from a large
hole is classified here.
(2) Note. Another form classified here is an adhesive
device with ridges or bumps for reasons related to a disc
storage medium.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
16, Miscellaneous Hardware, 2.1 for bushings, in general.
384, Bearings, 276 for a bearing sleeve, or liner.
Subclass:
291
Protectors:
This subclass is indented under subclass 289. Subject matter
wherein an element is formed for covering or enclosing a
storage medium unit for preventing an undesirable harm.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
77.2 for a storage or retrieval arrangement having a slotted
cabinet adapted to receive a storage disc in a protective
jacket.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
206, Special Receptacle or Package, 307 for a container
under the class definition for removably containing an
article which includes machine readable information
registered thereon.
220, Receptacles, various subclasses and especially 200+ for
cans or other casings without the storage medium unit.
229, Envelopes, Wrappers, and Paperboard Boxes, 68.1 for
envelopes.
242, Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding, 324.2, 326+, 335+ for a
machine convertible information carrier on or within a
housing typically termed cartridge, cassette, or magazine,
and subclass 601 for a spool provided with a cover.
Subclass:
292
MISCELLANEOUS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter not provided for in any of the preceding
subclasses of this class.
Subclass:
300
DETAIL OF OPTICAL SLIDER PER SE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein specific slider structure is provided
on a slider containing an optical head.
(1) Note. The specific structure allows the slider to follow
the topography of an optical disk.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
13 for magnetic sliders in magneto-optical drives.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
360, Dynamic Magnetic Information Storage or Retrieval,
subclasses 234.3-237.1 for a flying magnetic slider in a
magnetic disk drive and subclass 246.2 for a full contact
magnetic slider in a magnetic disk drive.
FOREIGN ART COLLECTIONS
The definitions of the Foreign Patent/NPL Art Collections
below correspond to the definitions of the abolished
subclasses from which these Collections were formed. See the
Foreign Patent/NPL Art Collection schedule for specific
correspondences.
Subclass: FOR 100
SIGNAL PROCESSING BY STORAGE AND SUBSEQUENT RETRIEVAL (E.G.,
FREQUENCY SHIFT, DELAY, ETC): Foreign art collections
including subject matter wherein a time-dependent
characteristic of a signal is modified by storing and
subsequently reproducing the signal.
Subclass: FOR 101
With details of electrical signal processing: Foreign art
collections including subject matter further including a
particularly described step or structure of electrical modifi
of the information signal.
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000