disc device

Abstract

The present application provides a disc device with reduced contamination and improved reliability. According to an embodiment, the disc device has a filter unit (70) disposed between a plurality of rotatable discs and a first actuator assembly and a second actuator assembly. The filter unit (70) has a holder (71) having a blocking portion opposite a boundary portion between the first and second actuator assemblies (22A, 22B), and a ventilation opening (OPl) disposed at a position axially apart from the boundary portion, and a filter (80) held by the holder and opposite the ventilation opening.

Description

[0001] This application enjoys priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-103686 (filed on June 28, 2022). This application incorporates the entire contents of the basic application by reference to that basic application. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a disk device. Background Technology

[0003] As a disk device, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD) includes a disk disposed in a housing, a spindle motor that supports and drives the disk to rotate, and an actuator assembly that supports and moves the read / write heads.

[0004] The actuator assembly includes an actuator block rotatably supported on a pivot via bearings, multiple arms extending from the actuator block, and a suspension assembly mounted on each arm. To reduce friction and wear, the bearings are filled with a lubricant such as grease.

[0005] In recent years, along with the increase in HDD storage capacity, the number of disks installed has also increased. To cope with multiple disks, a so-called multi-actuator assembly has been proposed, which has multiple actuator assemblies, such as two actuator assemblies, stacked in a layered configuration. In the multi-actuator assembly, two unit bearings are arranged overlapping in the axial direction.

[0006] During the seek operation of the actuator assembly, contaminants such as grease mist and gaseous components may be dispersed from the bearing to the outside. In the case of multi-actuator assemblies, the grease dispersion from the bearing may be increased due to the grease dispersion gap between the two unit bearings. The dispersed mist and gaseous components may be carried onto the disk by the airflow generated by the disk's rotation and adhere to the disk surface or the read / write head. If grease adheres to the disk and the read / write head, it can cause insufficient head lift, head crash, and potentially lead to poor data read / write performance. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Embodiments of the present invention provide a disc device that reduces the dispersion of pollutants and improves reliability.

[0008] According to one embodiment, the disk assembly includes: a plurality of rotatable disks; a first actuator assembly rotatably supported on a pivot via a first bearing unit; a second actuator assembly rotatably supported on the pivot via a second bearing unit, and arranged axially with the first actuator assembly on the pivot; and a filter unit disposed between the first actuator assembly, the second actuator assembly, and the disks. The filter unit includes: a retaining body having a shielding portion opposite to a boundary portion, and a ventilation opening disposed at a position axially away from the boundary portion, the boundary portion being the boundary portion between the first actuator assembly and the second actuator assembly; and a filter held in the retaining body and opposite the ventilation opening. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the hard disk drive (HDD) according to the first embodiment with the top cover removed.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the actuator assembly and substrate unit of the HDD.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the actuator assembly in its aligned state.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the actuator block and voice coil of the actuator assembly.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional view of the filter unit as seen from the filter side.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the filter unit taken from the spoiler side.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a front view showing the support and filter of the filter unit.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a front view of the filter unit in its assembled state.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates an example of the airflow analysis results inside the HDD.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a front view of the filter unit and filter involved in the first variation.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a front view of the filter unit and filter involved in the second variation.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the filter unit of the hard disk drive (HDD) according to the second embodiment.

[0021] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing the filter unit of the hard disk drive (HDD) according to the second embodiment.

[0022] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the actuator block and voice coil of the actuator assembly involved in the modified example. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Hereinafter, the disk device according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] Furthermore, the disclosure is merely one example, and solutions that can be readily conceived by those skilled in the art, while maintaining the inventive spirit, are naturally included within the scope of this invention. Additionally, the drawings sometimes schematically represent the width, thickness, shape, etc., of various parts compared to the actual form to make the explanation clearer, but this is ultimately just an example and does not limit the interpretation of the invention. Furthermore, in this specification and the various drawings, sometimes the same reference numerals are used for the same elements as those previously described with respect to existing drawings, and detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0025] (First Embodiment)

[0026] As a disk device, the hard disk drive (HDD) according to the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a disassembled perspective view of the HDD according to the first embodiment, showing the HDD with the top cover removed.

[0028] The HDD has a flat, generally rectangular housing 10. The housing 10 has a rectangular box-shaped base 12 with an opening on its upper surface, and a top cover 14. The top cover 14 is threadedly engaged with the base 12 by a plurality of threaded elements 13, closing the upper opening of the base 12. The base 12 has a rectangular bottom wall 12a spaced apart from the top cover 14, and side walls 12b rising along the periphery of the bottom wall 12a, and is formed, for example, from aluminum. The top cover 14 is formed, for example, from stainless steel in a rectangular plate shape.

[0029] Within the housing 10, multiple disks 18, for example nine, serving as recording media, are disposed, along with a spindle motor 19 serving as a drive unit to support and rotate the disks 18. The spindle motor 19 is mounted on the bottom wall 12a. Each disk 18 has a magnetic recording layer on its upper and / or lower surfaces. The disks 18 are coaxially fitted into a hub (not shown) of the spindle motor 19 and are clamped and fixed to the hub by clamping springs 20. The disks 18 are supported in a position substantially parallel to the bottom wall 12a of the base 12. The multiple disks 18 are rotated at a predetermined speed by the spindle motor 19.

[0030] In addition, the number of disks is not limited to 9; it can be 8 or less or 10 or more.

[0031] Within the housing 10 are disposed a plurality of magnetic heads 17 for recording and reproducing information on the disk 18, and a head actuator assembly that supports these magnetic heads 17 so as to be freely movable relative to the disk 18. In this embodiment, the head actuator assembly is configured as a multi-actuator assembly having a plurality of actuator assemblies, such as a first actuator assembly 22A and a second actuator assembly 22B. The first and second actuator assemblies 22A and 22B are supported so as to be freely rotatable about a common support axis (pivot) 26.

[0032] Inside the housing 10 are provided: a voice coil motor (VCM) 24 for rotating and positioning the first and second actuator assemblies 22A and 22B; a ramp loading mechanism 25 for holding the read / write head 17 in an unloading position away from the disk 18 when the read / write head 17 moves to the outermost periphery of the disk 18; and a substrate unit (FPC unit) 21 that houses electronic components such as a conversion connector. Furthermore, a filter unit 70 is provided between the outer periphery of the disk 18 and the first and second actuator assemblies 22A and 22B. The filter unit 70 is mounted on the bottom wall 12a.

[0033] On the outer surface of the bottom wall 12a, a printed circuit board 23 is threaded and stopped. The printed circuit board 23 constitutes a control unit that controls the operation of the spindle motor 19 and controls the operation of the VCM 24 and the magnetic head 17 via the board unit 21.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the multi-actuator assembly and the FPC unit. Figure 3 This is a 3D view of a multi-actuator assembly in its aligned state.

[0035] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the multi-actuator assembly includes a first actuator assembly 22A and a second actuator assembly 22B. The first and second actuator assemblies 22A and 22B are arranged overlapping each other and are configured to rotate independently about a common support shaft 26 erected on the bottom wall 12a of the base 12. The first actuator assembly 22A and the second actuator assembly 22B have substantially the same structure. In one example, the actuator assembly disposed on the upper side is designated as the first actuator assembly 22A, and the actuator assembly disposed on the lower side is designated as the second actuator assembly 22B.

[0036] The first actuator assembly 22A includes an actuator block (first actuator block) 29, five arms 30 extending from the actuator block 29, a head suspension assembly (also referred to as a head universal joint assembly (HGA)) 32 mounted on each arm 30, and a magnetic head 17 supported on the head suspension assembly. The actuator block 29 has an inner bore 31 in which a bearing unit (unit bearing) 50 is housed. The actuator block 29 is rotatably supported on a support shaft 26 via the bearing unit 50.

[0037] In this embodiment, the actuator block 29 and the five arms 30 are integrally formed using aluminum or the like, constituting what is called the E-block. The arms 30 are, for example, formed as elongated flat plates, extending from the actuator block 29 in a direction orthogonal to the support shaft 26. The five arms 30 are spaced apart from each other and arranged in parallel.

[0038] The first actuator assembly 22A has a support frame 34 extending from the actuator block 29 in the opposite direction to the arm 30. The voice coil 36 is supported by the support frame 34. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the voice coil 36 is located between a pair of yokes 38 disposed on the base 12, and together with these yokes 38 and the magnet 39 fixed to either yoke 38, constitutes the VCM24.

[0039] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first actuator assembly 22A includes nine head suspension assemblies 32, which are respectively mounted on the extension ends of each arm 30. The plurality of head suspension assemblies 32 include an up-head head suspension assembly that supports the magnetic head 17 upward and a down-head head suspension assembly that supports the magnetic head 17 downward.

[0040] Nine head suspension assemblies 32 extend from five arms 30 and are arranged generally parallel to each other and spaced at predetermined intervals. Each suspension assembly 32 has a generally rectangular base plate 35 fixed to the arm 30, an elongated leaf spring-like load-bearing beam 37, and an elongated strip-shaped flexible element (wiring component) 40. The base end of the load-bearing beam 37 is overlapped and fixed to the end of the base plate 35. The load-bearing beam 37 extends from the base plate 35 and tapers towards the extended end. The base plate 35 and the load-bearing beam 37 are, for example, made of stainless steel.

[0041] The flexible member 40 is mounted on the surfaces of the supporting beam 37 and the base plate 35, extending outward from the side edge of the base plate 35 and along the arm 30 to the base end of the arm 30 (actuator block 29). A freely movable universal joint (elastic support) is provided at the front end of the flexible member 40 located on the supporting beam 37, and a magnetic head 17 is mounted on this universal joint. The wiring of the flexible member 40 is electrically connected to the magnetic head 17.

[0042] The flexible member 40 has a connecting end 55 provided at its extended end. A plurality of connecting terminals are provided at the connecting end 55. The connecting end 55 engages with an FPC (Flat Form Polymer) provided on the side of the actuator block 29, as described later.

[0043] The second actuator assembly 22B is constructed in the same manner as the first actuator assembly 22A. The actuator block (second actuator block) 29 of the second actuator assembly 22B is rotatably supported on the support shaft 26 via the bearing unit 50. The actuator block 29 is supported at the base end of the support shaft 26 (half of the bottom wall 12a side) and is coaxially disposed below the first actuator block 29. The actuator block (second actuator block) 29 is positioned opposite the first actuator block 29 with a slight gap between them.

[0044] The voice coil 36 of the second actuator assembly 22B is located between a pair of yokes 38 disposed on the base 12, and together with these yokes 38 and the magnet 39 fixed to either yoke, constitutes the VCM 24.

[0045] like Figure 3 As shown, the support frame 34 and voice coil 36 of the first actuator assembly 22A and the support frame 34 and voice coil 36 of the second actuator assembly 22B are generally parallel to each other and spaced apart in the axial direction. The boundary or gap between the first actuator block 29 and the second actuator block 29 is located between the two sets of support frames 34 and voice coils 36.

[0046] like Figure 2As shown, the FPC unit 21 integrally comprises a generally rectangular base portion 42, two elongated strip-shaped relay portions 44 extending from one side edge of the base portion 42, and two bonding portions (a first wiring substrate and a second wiring substrate) 46 continuously disposed with the front end of each relay portion 44. The base portion 42, the relay portions 44, and the bonding portions 46 are formed of a flexible printed wiring substrate (FPC). The flexible printed wiring substrate has: an insulating layer such as polyimide; a conductive layer formed on the insulating layer and forming wiring, connection pads, etc.; and a protective layer covering the conductive layer.

[0047] On the base portion 42, electronic components such as a converter connector (not shown) and multiple capacitors are mounted and electrically connected to wiring (not shown). A metal plate 45, functioning as a reinforcing plate, is attached to the base portion 42. The base portion 42 is disposed on the bottom wall 12a of the base 12. Two relay portions 44 extend from the side edge of the base portion 42 toward the first and second actuator assemblies 22A and 22B. Engagements 46 provided at the extended ends of the relay portions 44 are respectively attached to one side (mounting surface) of the first and second actuator blocks 29, and are thus threadedly fixed to the mounting surface by a fixing thread.

[0048] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, each joint 46 is joined with a connecting end 55 of a flexible member 40, and wiring is electrically connected to the joint 46. A head IC (head amplifier) ​​48 is implemented on the joint 46, and the head IC 48 is connected to the connecting end 55 and the base portion 42 via wiring. Furthermore, the joint 46 has a connecting pad 49 for connecting a voice coil 36.

[0049] The nine magnetic heads 17 of the first actuator assembly 22A are electrically connected to the base portion 42 via wiring of the flexible member 40, connection end 55, junction portion 46 of the FPC unit 21, and relay portion 44, respectively. Similarly, the nine magnetic heads 17 of the second actuator assembly 22B are electrically connected to the base portion 42 via wiring of the flexible member 40, connection end 55, junction portion 46 of the FPC unit 21, and relay portion 44, respectively. Furthermore, the base portion 42 is electrically connected to the printed circuit board 23 on the bottom side of the housing 10 via a conversion connector.

[0050] Next, the support structure of the first actuator assembly 22A and the second actuator assembly 22B will be described in detail. Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the actuator assembly and bearing section. Figure 4 The positional relationship between the filter unit 70 and the actuator assemblies 22A and 22B is also shown.

[0051] Hereinafter, the constituent elements of the first actuator assembly 22A will be described with the designation "first", and the constituent elements of the second actuator assembly 22B will be described with the designation "second".

[0052] like Figure 4 As shown, a support shaft 26 is erected on the bottom wall 12a of the base 12. In one example, the support shaft 26 is integrally formed with the bottom wall 12a and is erected substantially perpendicular to the bottom wall 12a. The support shaft 26 integrally has an annular flange (base) 26b disposed on the outer periphery of the base end.

[0053] The first bearing unit 50 of the first actuator assembly 22A and the second bearing unit 50 of the second actuator assembly 22B share a common bearing shaft 51. The bearing shaft 51 is formed as a generally hollow cylindrical shape, with an annular flange 51c on its lower outer periphery. The bearing shaft 51 is fitted around the support shaft 26 and extends coaxially with it. The axial length of the bearing shaft 51 is longer than the axial length of the support shaft 26. The flange 51c of the bearing shaft 51 rests on the flange 26a of the support shaft 26. The upper axial end of the bearing shaft 51 extends upward beyond the upper axial end of the support shaft 26.

[0054] The fixing threaded member 60 is screwed into the upper end of the support shaft 26 through the inner hole of the top cover 14 and the bearing shaft 51. The head of the fixing threaded member 60 abuts against the axial upper end of the bearing shaft 51 through the top cover 14, pressing the bearing shaft 51 toward the base 26b. Thus, the bearing shafts 51 of the first bearing unit 50 and the second bearing unit 50 are mounted and fixed relative to the support shaft 26 in a predetermined position.

[0055] The first actuator block 29 and the second actuator block 29 each have an upper end face 29a and a lower end face 29b extending orthogonally to the support shaft 26. An inner hole 31 is formed through the actuator block 29 and opens at the upper end face 29a and the lower end face 29b. In addition, the inner hole 31 is formed coaxially with the support shaft 26.

[0056] The first actuator block 29 is rotatably supported on the upper axial end portion of the bearing shaft 51 via the first bearing unit 50. The first bearing unit 50 has: a generally cylindrical first sleeve 52a; and a plurality of, for example, a pair of ball bearings 54a, 54b fitted between the first sleeve 52a and the bearing shaft 51. The ball bearings 54a, 54b are filled with a lubricant such as grease.

[0057] The first sleeve 52a has an axial length substantially equal to the height of the first actuator block 29. The outer diameter of the first sleeve 52a is formed to be substantially equal to the diameter of the inner hole 31. The inner diameter of the first sleeve 52a is formed to be larger than the outer diameter of the bearing shaft 51. The first sleeve 52a integrally has an annular protrusion 53 protruding from the axial middle portion of its inner circumferential surface toward the shaft center.

[0058] The first sleeve 52a is fitted into the inner hole 31 of the first actuator block 29a and is fixed to the first actuator block 29a by adhesive or the like. The first sleeve 52a is located coaxially with the inner hole 31, and its upper and lower ends are substantially aligned with the upper end face 29a and lower end face 29b of the first actuator block 29a.

[0059] One ball bearing 54a is positioned within the upper end of the first sleeve 52a, with its inner ring fitted onto the outer circumferential surface of the bearing shaft 51 and its outer ring fitted onto the inner circumferential surface of the first sleeve 52a. The other ball bearing 54b is positioned within the lower end of the first sleeve 52a, with its inner ring fitted onto the outer circumferential surface of the bearing shaft 51 and its outer ring fitted onto the inner circumferential surface of the first sleeve 52a. A protrusion 53 is located between the ball bearings 54a and 54b, functioning as a spacer.

[0060] An annular cap 58a is installed on the inner circumference of the upper end of the first sleeve 52a. The cap 58a is positioned opposite the upper ball bearing 54a with a slight gap. The cap 58a functions as a cover to prevent grease from splashing out of the ball bearing 54a.

[0061] The second actuator block 29 of the second actuator assembly 22B is rotatably supported on the base end portion of the bearing shaft 51 via the second bearing unit 50. The second bearing unit 50 has a substantially the same structure as the first bearing unit 50.

[0062] In detail, the second bearing unit 50 has: a generally cylindrical second sleeve 52b coaxially disposed around the bearing shaft 51; and a plurality of, for example, two ball bearings 54a, 54b fitted between the bearing shaft 51 and the second sleeve 52b.

[0063] The second sleeve 52b has an axial length substantially equal to the height of the second actuator block 29. The outer diameter of the second sleeve 52b is formed to be substantially equal to the diameter of the inner hole 31. The inner diameter of the second sleeve 52b is formed to be larger than the outer diameter of the bearing shaft 54. The second sleeve 52b integrally has an annular protrusion 53 protruding from the axial middle portion of its inner circumferential surface toward the shaft center.

[0064] The second sleeve 52b is fitted into the inner hole 31 of the second actuator block 29 and is fixed to the second actuator block 29 using adhesive or the like. The second sleeve 52b is located coaxially with the inner hole 31, and its upper and lower ends are substantially aligned with the upper end face 29a and lower end face 29b of the second actuator block 29.

[0065] One ball bearing 54a is positioned within the upper end of the first sleeve 52a, with its inner ring fitted onto the outer circumferential surface of the bearing shaft 54 ​​and its outer ring fitted onto the inner circumferential surface of the second sleeve 52b. The other ball bearing 54b is positioned within the lower end of the second sleeve 52b, with its inner ring fitted onto the outer circumferential surface of the bearing shaft 54 ​​and its outer ring fitted onto the inner circumferential surface of the second sleeve 52b. A protrusion 53 is located between the ball bearings 54a and 54b, functioning as a spacer.

[0066] The second sleeve 52b and the second actuator block 29 are supported by ball bearings 54a and 54b and are able to rotate freely relative to the bearing shaft 54 ​​and the support shaft 26.

[0067] A spacer ring 59 is fitted around the outer periphery of the bearing shaft 51 between the first bearing unit 50 and the second bearing unit 50. The spacer ring 59 is sandwiched between the ball bearing 54b on the lower side of the first bearing unit 50 and the ball bearing 54a on the upper side of the second bearing unit 50. The spacer ring 59 abuts against the inner rings of the ball bearings 54b and 54a and is spaced apart from the outer rings.

[0068] As described above, the first actuator assembly 22A and the second actuator assembly 22B are rotatably supported by the first bearing unit 50 and the second bearing unit 50, respectively, on the bearing shaft 51 and the support shaft 26. The lower end face 29b of the first actuator block 29 is opposite to the upper end face 29a of the second actuator block 29b, separated by a gap G.

[0069] like Figure 4 As shown, the support frame 34 and voice coil 36 of the first actuator assembly 22A extend in a direction orthogonal to the support shaft 26. Similarly, the support frame 34 and voice coil 36 of the second actuator assembly 22B extend in a direction orthogonal to the support shaft 26. The support frame 34 and voice coil 36 of the second actuator assembly 22B are generally parallel to the support frame 34 and voice coil 36 of the first actuator assembly 22A, spaced apart axially by the support shaft 26. The boundary or gap G between the first actuator block 29 and the second actuator block 29 is located between the two sets of support frames 34 and voice coils 36.

[0070] Next, the filter unit 70 will be described in detail. Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the filter unit involved in this embodiment, viewed from one direction. Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional view of the filter unit as seen from another direction. Figure 7 This is a side view showing the holder of the filter unit and the filter. Figure 8 This is a side view of a filter unit with the filter installed.

[0071] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the filter unit 70 has a retainer 71 and a filter 80 mounted on the retainer 71. In this embodiment, the filter unit 70 also includes a deflector 82 comprising multiple blades 74. The retainer 71 and the deflector 82 are integrally formed using synthetic resin or metal.

[0072] The retainer 71 integrally comprises a generally flat rectangular retaining wall 72, a support sleeve 73 disposed on one side of the retaining wall 72, and a bracket 78 protruding from the retaining wall 72. When the axial direction of the aforementioned support shaft 26 is defined as the X direction and the direction orthogonal to the X direction is defined as the Y direction, the retaining wall 72 and the support sleeve 73 are erected in the X direction.

[0073] The retaining wall portion 72 has a flat first main surface 72a and a flat second main surface 72b that is generally parallel to it. A mounting groove 76 for receiving the filter 80 is formed in the retaining wall portion 72. The mounting groove 76 is located between the first main surface 72a and the second main surface 72b and extends from the upper end to the lower end of the retaining wall portion 72.

[0074] The retaining wall portion 72 has a first ventilation opening OP1 and a second ventilation opening OP2 that open onto the first main surface 72a and the mounting groove 76, respectively. In one example, the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 are rectangular. The first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 are spaced apart from each other in the X direction. The first ventilation opening OP1 is located on the upper end side of the first main surface 72a in the X direction, and the second ventilation opening OP2 is located on the lower end side of the first main surface 72a. Thus, the wall portion where the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 are located functions as a closed shielding portion 72c.

[0075] The retaining wall 72 has a plurality of, for example, seven, third ventilation openings OP3 that open onto the second main surface 72b and the mounting groove 76 respectively. The third ventilation openings OP3 are elongated holes extending in the Y direction and arranged at intervals in the X direction.

[0076] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the filter 80 is, for example, formed as an elongated rectangular plate. In one example, the filter 80 is formed with a length and width substantially equal to the length in the X direction and the width in a direction orthogonal to the X direction of the mounting groove 76. The filter 80 is mounted in the mounting groove 76 and held within it. The filter 80 is located opposite the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2, covering the opening ends of the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 on the mounting groove 76 side. In addition, the filter 80 is opposite the seven third ventilation openings OP3, closing the opening ends of these third ventilation openings OP3 on the mounting groove 76 side.

[0077] As will be described later, during the operation of the HDD, a portion of the airflow generated by the rotation of the disk 18 flows from the third ventilation opening OP3 of the filter unit 70 into the retainer 71, passes through the filter 80, and then flows out from the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 towards the actuator assemblies 22A and 22B. By passing through the filter 80, particles in the airflow are captured by the filter 80.

[0078] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the spoiler 82 has multiple blades 74 extending from the second main surface 72b of the retainer 71 in the Y direction, that is, in a direction perpendicular to the second main surface. For example, nine blades 74 are spaced apart from each other in the X direction by a predetermined interval and are arranged substantially parallel to each other. That is, the blades 74 extend substantially parallel to the surface of the disk 18.

[0079] like Figure 1 As shown, the filter unit 70 configured above is positioned upstream of the actuator assemblies 22A and 22B in the rotational direction of the disk 18, near the outer periphery of the disk 18. That is, the filter unit 70 is positioned between the actuator assemblies 22A and 22B and the outer periphery of the disk 18. A pivot (not shown) erected on the bottom wall 12a of the base 12 is inserted into the support sleeve 73 of the filter unit 70, and a bracket 78 is threadedly locked to the bottom wall 12a. Thus, the filter unit 70 is fixed to the bottom wall 12a and is erected substantially vertically on the bottom wall 12a.

[0080] The first main surface 72a of the wall portion 72 and the first and second ventilation openings OP1 and OP2 are located on the actuator assemblies 22A and 22B, while the second main surface 72b of the wall portion 72 and the third ventilation opening OP3 are located on the disk 18 side. Furthermore, in one example, the plurality of third ventilation openings OP3 are respectively opposite to the gap between adjacent disks 18.

[0081] Except for the uppermost blade 74a and the lowermost blade 74b of the spoiler 82, multiple other blades 74 extend between two adjacent disks 18 and are spaced apart from the outer periphery of the disks 18. The uppermost blade 74a is spaced apart from the upper surface of the uppermost disk 18. The lowermost blade 74b is spaced apart from the lower surface of the lowermost disk 18.

[0082] The blades 74, 74a, and 74b of the spoiler 82 rectify the airflow generated on the surface of the disk 18, reducing airflow interference to the actuator assemblies 22A and 22B. This suppresses vibration of the actuator assemblies 22A and 22B, thereby improving head positioning accuracy.

[0083] like Figure 4As shown, with the filter unit 70 erected on the bottom wall 12a, the first ventilation opening OP1 of the wall portion 72 is positioned in the X direction higher than the plane extending from the support frame 34 and voice coil 36 of the first actuator assembly 22A, while the second ventilation opening OP2 is positioned lower than the plane extending from the support frame 34 and voice coil 36 of the second actuator assembly 22A. That is, the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 are positioned in the X direction offset vertically from the boundary and gap G between the first actuator assembly 22A and the second actuator assembly 22B. In this embodiment, the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 are positioned in the X direction offset vertically from the region A between the two voice coils 36. Thus, the shielding portion 72c of the wall portion 72 is positioned opposite to the region A between the two voice coils 36.

[0084] On the other hand, the multiple third ventilation openings OP3 of the filter unit 70 face the disk 18 side and are respectively opposite to the area between the disks 18.

[0085] According to the HDD configured as described above, in the operating state, a portion of the airflow generated by the rotation of the disk 18 flows into the retainer 71 from the third ventilation opening OP3 of the filter unit 70. Furthermore, after passing through the filter 80, the airflow flows out towards the actuator assemblies 22A and 22B from the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2. By passing through the filter 80, particles in the airflow are captured by the filter 80.

[0086] At this time, the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 are blocked by the shielding part 72c, so the incoming airflow is blocked by the shielding part 72c and only flows out from the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 towards the actuator assembly side. That is, the airflow will not flow out into the area A between the voice coils 36, and the high-speed airflow will not come into contact with the gap G.

[0087] Figure 9 The diagram schematically illustrates the analytical results (flow velocity) of the airflow in the planar region of the gap G within the HDD, which includes the actuator assembly. As can be seen from the figure, the airflow velocity near the gap G is low, and there is no high-speed airflow flowing out towards the gap G.

[0088] By configuring a high-speed airflow that does not come into contact with the gap G between actuator assemblies 22A and 22B, it is possible to reduce or prevent contaminants (mist components of lubricating grease, gas components, etc.) from scattering into the housing from the gap G.

[0089] According to the HDD of the first embodiment configured as described above, the filter unit 70 can capture particles such as dirt and dust generated inside the housing, reducing particle adhesion to the disk 18. Furthermore, although the first actuator assembly 22A and the second actuator assembly 22B, which can be driven independently, are arranged overlappingly on a common support shaft 26, contaminants (grease mist components, gas components, etc.) that fly into the housing from the boundary (gap) between the first and second actuator assemblies can be reduced. This prevents grease mist components and gas components from flying onto the disk, suppressing grease adhesion to the disk or read / write head. Therefore, it prevents insufficient head lift, head impact, and subsequent poor data read / write caused by grease, thereby improving the reliability of the HDD.

[0090] In this embodiment, by forming the filter unit 70 and the baffle 82 as an integral component, a disc device that can reduce the number of parts and simplify assembly can be obtained.

[0091] Next, variations of the first embodiment and other embodiments of the HDD will be described. In the variations and other embodiments described below, the same reference numerals will be used for the parts that are the same as those in the first embodiment described above, and their detailed descriptions will be omitted or simplified. The description will focus on the parts that are different from the first embodiment.

[0092] (First variation)

[0093] Figure 10 This is a front view showing the support and filter of the filter unit involved in the first modification. As shown, the filter 80 is not limited to a single filter; two independent filters 80A and 80B can also be used. One filter 80B is mounted in the mounting groove 76 and held in a position opposite to the second ventilation opening OP2. The other filter 80A is mounted in the mounting groove 76 and held in a position opposite to the first ventilation opening OP2.

[0094] (Second variation)

[0095] Figure 11 This is a front view of the filter unit involved in the second modification. As shown, the vent on the outflow side of the filter unit 70 is not limited to multiple vents, but can also be a single vent. In one example, a first vent OP1 is formed in the holder 71 of the filter unit 70, located offset upwards in the X direction relative to the gap G (boundary) between the first actuator assembly 22A and the second actuator assembly 22B. The second vent is partially closed, forming a shield 72c.

[0096] In the second variation, the ventilation opening OP is not limited to being above the gap G in the X direction, but can also be located at a position offset downward in the X direction.

[0097] In either of the first or second modifications described above, the same effects as those in the first embodiment described above can be obtained.

[0098] (Second Implementation)

[0099] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the substrate portion of the HDD according to the second embodiment. Figure 13 These are three-dimensional images obtained by observing the substrate from different directions.

[0100] As shown in the figure, according to the second embodiment, the retainer 71 of the filter unit 70 is integrally formed with the base 12 of the housing 10. In one example, the retaining wall portion 72 of the retainer 71 is erected substantially vertically on the bottom wall 12a of the base 12 and connected to the side wall 12b of the base 12. The retaining wall portion 72 is formed to the same height as the side wall 12b and extends from the side wall 12b toward the actuator assemblies 22A and 22B along the outer periphery of the disk 18.

[0101] The retaining wall portion 72 has: a first main surface 72a opposite to the first and second actuator assemblies 22A and 22B; a second main surface 72b located on the opposite side of the first main surface 72a and opposite to the outer periphery of the disk 18; and a mounting groove 76 capable of receiving the filter 80. The mounting groove 76 is located between the first main surface 72a and the second main surface 72b and extends from the upper end to the lower end of the retaining wall portion 72 in the X direction.

[0102] The retaining wall portion 72 has a first ventilation opening OP1 and a second ventilation opening OP2 that open onto the first main surface 72a and the mounting groove 76, respectively. In one example, the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 are rectangular. The first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 are spaced apart from each other in the X direction. The first ventilation opening OP1 is located on the upper end side of the first main surface 72a in the X direction, and the second ventilation opening OP2 is located on the lower end side of the first main surface 72a. Thus, the wall portion where the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 are located functions as a closed shielding portion 72c.

[0103] The retaining wall portion 72 has a third ventilation opening OP3 that opens into the second main surface 72b and the mounting groove 76. The third ventilation opening OP3 extends from the upper end of the retaining wall portion 72 to near the lower end in the X direction. The third ventilation opening OP3 has a width narrower than the width of the mounting groove 76 (the width in the direction orthogonal to the X direction).

[0104] The filter 80 is, for example, formed as an elongated rectangular plate. In one example, the filter 80 is formed with a length and width substantially equal to the length in the X direction and the width in a direction orthogonal to the X direction of the mounting groove 76. The filter 80 is located opposite the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2, covering the opening ends of the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 on the mounting groove 76 side. In addition, the filter 80 is opposite the third ventilation opening OP3, closing the opening end of the third ventilation opening OP3 on the mounting groove 76 side.

[0105] With the first actuator assembly 22A and the second actuator assembly 22B mounted on the base 12, the first ventilation opening OP1 of the wall portion 72 is positioned in the X direction at a position higher than the plane extending from the support frame 34 and voice coil 36 of the first actuator assembly 22A, while the second ventilation opening OP2 is positioned lower than the plane extending from the support frame 34 and voice coil 36 of the second actuator assembly 22A. That is, the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 are positioned in the X direction at a position offset vertically from the boundary and gap G between the first actuator assembly 22A and the second actuator assembly 22B. In this embodiment, the first ventilation opening OP1 and the second ventilation opening OP2 are positioned in the X direction from the region A between the two voice coils 36 (refer to...). Figure 4 The position is offset upwards and downwards. The blocking part 72c of the wall 72 is kept opposite to the area A between the two voice coils 36.

[0106] In the second embodiment, the other components of the HDD are the same as those of the HDD described in the first embodiment. However, in the second embodiment, the baffle 82, which is integrally formed with the holder 71 of the filter unit 70, is omitted.

[0107] In the HDD according to the second embodiment described above, the same effects as those of the HDD according to the first embodiment can be obtained. That is, according to the HDD according to the second embodiment, the filter unit 70 can capture particles such as dirt and dust generated inside the housing, reducing the adhesion of particles to the disk 18. At the same time, although the first actuator assembly 22A and the second actuator assembly 22B, which can be driven independently, are arranged overlappingly on a common support shaft 26, the amount of contaminants (grease mist components, gas components, etc.) flying into the housing from the gap between the actuator assemblies can be reduced. As a result, grease mist components and gas components can be prevented from flying onto the disk, and the adhesion of grease to the disk or the read / write head can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent insufficient head lift, head impact, and poor data read / write caused by grease, thereby improving the reliability of the HDD. Moreover, in this embodiment, by forming the filter unit 70 as an integral component with the housing, a disk device with a reduced number of parts and simplified assembly can be obtained.

[0108] (Third Implementation)

[0109] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing the bearing portion of the actuator assembly of the HDD according to the third embodiment. In the aforementioned first embodiment, the first bearing unit and the second bearing unit are configured to have a common bearing shaft 51, but the bearing shaft is not limited to being a single unit, and can also be separated into a first bearing shaft and a second bearing shaft.

[0110] like Figure 14 As shown, according to the third embodiment, the first bearing unit 50 of the first actuator assembly 22A and the second bearing unit 50 of the second actuator assembly 22B are configured as independent bearing units that are separated from each other, and are respectively assembled on the first actuator block 29 and the second actuator block 29.

[0111] The first bearing unit 50 supporting the first actuator assembly 22A has: a generally cylindrical first bearing shaft 51a; a generally cylindrical first sleeve 52a coaxially disposed around the first bearing shaft 51a; and a plurality of bearings, such as two ball bearings 54a and 54b, fitted between the first bearing shaft 51a and the first sleeve 52a.

[0112] The first sleeve 52a is positioned slightly upward relative to the first bearing shaft 51a in the axial direction. As a result, the upper end of the first bearing shaft 51a is positioned slightly downward relative to the upper end of the first sleeve 52a, and the lower end of the first bearing shaft 51a protrudes slightly downward from the lower end of the first sleeve 52a.

[0113] The first sleeve 52a is fitted into the inner hole 31 of the first actuator block 29 and fixed to the first actuator block 29 using adhesive or the like. The first sleeve 52a is located coaxially with the inner hole 31, and its upper and lower axial ends are substantially aligned with the upper end face 29a and lower end face 29b of the first actuator block 29. The lower axial end of the first bearing shaft 51a protrudes slightly downward from the lower end face 29b of the first actuator block 29.

[0114] The first bearing unit 50, which is assembled in the first actuator block 29, is mounted on the support shaft 26 by fitting the first bearing shaft 51a into the upper end of the support shaft 26.

[0115] On the other hand, the second bearing unit 50 supporting the second actuator assembly 22B is rotatably mounted on the base end portion of the support shaft 26.

[0116] In detail, the second bearing unit 50 has: a generally cylindrical second bearing shaft 51b; a generally cylindrical second sleeve 52b coaxially disposed around the second bearing shaft 51b; and a plurality of bearings, such as two ball bearings 54a and 54b, fitted between the second bearing shaft 51b and the second sleeve 52b.

[0117] The second hollow shaft 51b integrally has an annular flange 51c disposed on the outer periphery of its axial lower end. The second hollow shaft 51b is fitted into the outer peripheral surface of the support shaft 26, and the flange 51c abuts against the base 26b of the support shaft 26. The second sleeve 52b is fitted into the inner hole 31 of the second actuator block 29 and is fixed to the second actuator block 29 by adhesive or the like. The second sleeve 52b is located coaxially with the inner hole 31, and its axial upper and lower ends are substantially aligned with the upper end face 29a and lower end face 29b of the second actuator block 29. An annular cap 58b is installed on the inner periphery of the upper end of the second sleeve 52b.

[0118] The second actuator assembly 22B is rotatably supported on the base end portion of the support shaft 26 via the second bearing unit 50. Specifically, the second bearing shaft 51b of the second bearing unit 50 passes through the base end portion of the support shaft 26. The second bearing shaft 51b fits into the outer circumferential surface of the support shaft 26, and the flange 51c abuts against the base 26b of the support shaft 26. The second sleeve 52b and the second actuator block 29 are supported by ball bearings 54a and 54b, allowing them to rotate freely relative to the second bearing shaft 51b and the support shaft 26.

[0119] The aforementioned first actuator assembly 22A is rotatably supported on the front end portion of the support shaft 26 via the first bearing unit 50. The first bearing shaft 51a of the first bearing unit 50 is inserted through the front end portion of the support shaft 26. The first bearing shaft 51a is fitted into the outer peripheral surface of the support shaft 26, and furthermore, the axial upper end of the first bearing shaft 51a extends upward beyond the front end of the support shaft 26.

[0120] The lower axial end of the first bearing shaft 51a abuts against the upper axial end of the second bearing shaft 51b. A retaining threaded member 60 is screwed into the upper end of the support shaft 26 through the inner hole of the first bearing shaft 51a. The head of the retaining threaded member 60 abuts against the upper axial end of the first bearing shaft 51a through the top cover 14, pressing the first bearing shaft 51a and the second bearing shaft 51b toward the base 26b.

[0121] Thus, the first bearing unit 50 and the second bearing unit 50 are mounted and fixed in predetermined positions relative to the support shaft 26. The first actuator assembly 22A is positioned in a predetermined position relative to the second actuator assembly 22B by the lower end of the first hollow shaft 51a abutting against the upper end of the second hollow shaft 51b. That is, the first actuator assembly 22A and the second actuator assembly 22B are positioned such that a predetermined gap G is formed between the lower end face 29b of the first actuator block 29 and the upper end face 29a of the second actuator block 29.

[0122] In the third embodiment, the other components of the HDD are the same as those of the HDD described in the first embodiment. The HDD with the above-described third embodiment also achieves the same effects as the HDD described in the first embodiment.

[0123] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. During implementation, the constituent elements can be modified and embodied by variations without departing from its essence. Furthermore, various inventions can be formed through appropriate combinations of the multiple constituent elements disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, several constituent elements may be deleted from all the constituent elements shown in the embodiments. Moreover, constituent elements across different embodiments may be appropriately combined.

[0124] For example, the filter unit is not limited to having a spoiler integrated into its structure; it can also be configured as a separate unit from the spoiler. Alternatively, a protective cover can be provided as a replacement for the spoiler.

[0125] The multi-actuator assembly is not limited to the first and second actuator assemblies; it can also be configured to have three or more actuator assemblies rotatably supported on a common support shaft. The number of disks is not limited to nine; it can be eight or fewer, or ten or more. The number of head suspension assemblies and the number of read / write heads can be increased or decreased depending on the number of disks. The materials, shapes, and sizes of the elements constituting the disk assembly are not limited to the above-described embodiment and can be modified as needed.

[0126] [Explanation of Labels in the Attached Image]

[0127] 10…House, 12…Base, 12a…Bottom wall, 12b…Side wall, 14…Top cover, 17…Head, 18…Disk, 19…Spindle motor, 21…FPC unit, 22A…First actuator assembly, 22B…Second actuator assembly, 26…Support shaft (pivot), 29…Actuator block, 30…Arm, 32…Head suspension assembly, 34…Support frame, 36…Voice coil, 40…Flexible element (wiring component), 50…Bearing unit, 70…Filter unit, 71…Retainer, 72…Retainer wall, 80…Filter, 82…Breaker, OP1…First ventilation opening, OP2…Second ventilation opening, OP3…Third ventilation opening

Claims

1. A disk device comprising: Multiple disks that can rotate freely; The first actuator assembly is rotatably supported on the pivot via the first bearing unit; A second actuator assembly, rotatably supported on the pivot via a second bearing unit, is arranged axially with the first actuator assembly on the pivot; and A filter unit is disposed between the first actuator assembly, the second actuator assembly, and the disk. The filter unit includes: A retainer having a shielding portion opposite to the gap and a ventilation opening disposed at a position axially away from the gap, the gap being the gap between the first actuator assembly and the second actuator assembly; and a filter retained in the retainer and opposite to the ventilation opening. The airflow that flows into the retainer exits from the ventilation opening after passing through the filter.

2. The disk device according to claim 1, The retainer has: a first main surface opposite to the first actuator assembly and the second actuator assembly; a second main surface opposite to the disk; a mounting slot disposed between the first main surface and the second main surface; a ventilation opening opening into the first main surface and the mounting slot; and a third ventilation opening opening into the second main surface and the mounting slot, wherein the filter is disposed in the mounting slot.

3. The disk device according to claim 2, The ventilation openings of the retainer include a first ventilation opening and a second ventilation opening, each opening onto the first main surface and the assembly slot, respectively. The first ventilation opening and the second ventilation opening are respectively disposed axially away from the gap and axially away from each other.

4. The disc device according to claim 1, The first actuator assembly includes: a first actuator block rotatably supported on the pivot by the first bearing unit; a first suspension assembly extending from the first actuator block in a first direction; a support frame extending from the first actuator block in a second direction opposite to the first direction; and a first voice coil supported on the support frame. The second actuator assembly includes: a second actuator block rotatably supported on the pivot by the second bearing unit; a second suspension assembly extending from the second actuator block in the first direction; a support frame extending from the second actuator block in the second direction; and a second voice coil supported on the support frame. The ventilation opening is disposed axially away from the area between the first voice coil and the second voice coil.

5. The disc device according to claim 4, The ventilation openings of the retainer include a first ventilation opening and a second ventilation opening. The first ventilation opening and the second ventilation opening are respectively disposed axially away from the region and axially away from each other.

6. The disk device according to claim 1, It also includes a housing having a bottom wall and side walls that rise along the periphery of the bottom wall. The retainer is erected on the bottom wall.

7. The disk device according to claim 1, It also includes a housing having a bottom wall and side walls that rise along the periphery of the bottom wall. The retainer has a retaining wall portion integrally formed with the bottom wall or the side wall.

8. The disk device according to claim 1, The filter unit includes a baffle having multiple blades extending from the retainer and opposite the surface of the disk.

Images