A contactless power system for an automated data storage library having a
plurality of storage shelves for storing data storage cartridges, at
least one picker for accessing the data storage cartridges with respect
to the storage shelves, and a transport system for guiding the picker(s)
along at least one path with respect to the storage shelves. The
contactless power system comprises a plurality of segmented coils
arranged in parallel to the path(s), and in proximity to at least one
induction receiver of the picker(s); and at least one power source
supplying power to the segmented coils, for inductive transmission of
power by the segmented coils to the induction receiver(s) of the
picker(s). The power source(s) may switch the supplied power to selected
segmented coils based on an indication of the position of the induction
receiver(s) of the picker along the path.