Sierra Patent Group, Ltd.
Loading and unloading a flying lens
 An apparatus and a method for loading and unloading a flying lens relative to the surface of an optical storage media is provided. The apparatus is comprises a flying lens, a movable optical module for supporting and positioning the lens, and a ramp that slidably engages the movable optical module to load and unload the flying lens. The flying lens is loaded, or moved into a position close to the surface of the moving optical storage media, when the speed is sufficient that aerodynamic forces prevent contact between the flying lens and the storage media. The flying lens is unloaded before the storage media slows or stops and is held in a parked position by the ramp. During the loading and unloading the alignment integrity of the optical path is maintained. 
Siros Technologies, Inc.
G G
G11B G11B
inventional additional
Gregory H. Yu-Chuan
Chao Lee