disc device

Abstract

The present invention provides a disk device capable of more reliably positioning a ramp. One embodiment relates to a disk device provided with a disk, a head, a suspension, a ramp, a housing, and a screw. The ramp, which holds the suspension in an unloading position, has a mounting piece provided with a through-hole. The housing, which houses the disk, the head, the suspension, and the ramp, has a support surface provided with a threaded hole and supporting the mounting piece. The screw, which has a screw head, a screw shaft extending from the screw head in a first direction and embedded in the threaded hole through the through-hole, and a first contact surface provided between the screw head or the screw head and the mounting piece and tapered at a front end in the first direction and in contact with the mounting piece, holds the mounting piece between the support surface and the first contact surface.

Description

[0001] This application enjoys priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-147873 (filed on September 16, 2022). This application incorporates the entire contents of that basic application by reference. Technical Field

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

[0003] Disk devices such as hard disk drives (HDDs) have, for example, a disk, read / write heads, a suspension, and a ramp. The read / write heads are held in place by the suspension. The suspension rotates between a loaded position where the read / write heads are on the surface of the disk and an unloaded position where the suspension is held in place by the ramp. The ramp is mounted to the housing, for example, by screws (threaded fittings).

[0004] The screw passes through the through hole of the ramp to install the ramp into the housing. For example, a gap may sometimes exist between the screw's helical axis and the inner surface of the ramp's through hole. In this case, the ramp may deviate from its intended position in a direction orthogonal to the helical axis. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention provide a disc device capable of more reliably positioning a slope.

[0006] One embodiment of the disk device includes a disk, a read / write head, a suspension, a ramp, a housing, and a screw. The disk has a recording surface. The read / write head is configured to read and write information to the disk. The suspension is configured to hold the read / write head between a loaded position where the head is on the recording surface and an unloaded position where the head has left the recording surface. The ramp is configured to hold the suspension in the unloaded position and has a mounting plate with a through hole. The housing houses the disk, the read / write head, the suspension, and the ramp and has a support surface with a threaded hole that supports the mounting plate. The screw has: a screw head; a helical shaft extending from the screw head in a first direction and passing through the through hole to be inserted into the threaded hole; and a first contact surface disposed between the screw head or between the screw head and the mounting plate, tapering at the front end along the first direction and contacting the mounting plate, the screw holding the mounting plate between the support surface and the first contact surface. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is an exemplary perspective view showing the hard disk drive (HDD) according to the first embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2 This is an exemplary top view showing the housing, disk, and ramp loading mechanism of the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 3 This is an illustrative top view showing a portion of the housing of the first embodiment and the ramp loading mechanism.

[0010] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 The F4-F4 line represents an exemplary cross-sectional view of a portion of the HDD of the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 5 This is an exemplary top view showing the support platform of the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 6 This is an illustrative cross-sectional view showing a portion of the HDD involved in the second embodiment.

[0013] Figure 7 This is an illustrative cross-sectional view showing a portion of the HDD involved in the third embodiment.

[0014] Figure 8 This is an exemplary cross-sectional view showing a portion of the HDD involved in a variation of the third embodiment.

[0015] Figure 9 This is an illustrative cross-sectional view showing a portion of the HDD involved in the fourth embodiment.

[0016] Label Explanation

[0017] 10…Hard disk drive (HDD), 11…Casing, 12…Disk, 12a…Recording surface, 14…Head, 17…Rad loading mechanism, 37…Head suspension assembly (suspension), 53…Mounting piece, 61…Support surface, 61a…Edge, 62…Threaded hole, 63…Retaining hole, 64…Internal thread, 66…Inner surface, 74…Through hole, 75…Inner surface, 75a…Edge, 76…Pin, 81…Part 1, 82…Part 2, 90…Screw, 91…Screw head, 92…Helical shaft, 95…Lower surface, 99…External thread, 200…Mounting piece, 201…Rad surface, 201a…Edge, 300…Screw head, 311…First washer, 322…Lower surface, 324…Through hole, Pl…Loading position, Pu…Unloading position, L…Distance. Detailed Implementation

[0018] (First Embodiment)

[0019] The following is for reference Figures 1 to 5The first embodiment will be described. Furthermore, in this specification, the constituent elements involved in the embodiment and their descriptions are sometimes described using multiple terms. The constituent elements and their descriptions are merely examples and are not limited to the descriptions in this specification. Constituent elements may also be identified using names different from those used in this specification. Additionally, constituent elements may also be described using descriptions different from those used in this specification.

[0020] Figure 1 This is an exemplary perspective view showing the hard disk drive (HDD) 10 according to the first embodiment. The HDD 10 is an example of a disk device, and can also be referred to as an electronic device, a storage device, an external storage device, or a disk drive.

[0021] As shown in the figures, for convenience, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are defined in this specification. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are orthogonal to each other. The X-axis is set along the width of the HDD10. The Y-axis is set along the length of the HDD10. The Z-axis is set along the thickness of the HDD10.

[0022] Furthermore, in this specification, the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction are defined. The X direction is the direction along the X-axis, including the +X direction indicated by the arrow on the X-axis and the -X direction, which is the opposite direction of the arrow on the X-axis. The Y direction is the direction along the Y-axis, including the +Y direction indicated by the arrow on the Y-axis and the -Y direction, which is the opposite direction of the arrow on the Y-axis. The Z direction is the direction along the Z-axis, including the +Z direction indicated by the arrow on the Z-axis and the -Z direction, which is the opposite direction of the arrow on the Z-axis.

[0023] like Figure 1 As shown, HDD10 has a housing 11, multiple disks 12, a spindle motor 13, multiple heads 14, a head stack assembly (HSA) 15, a voice coil motor (VCM) 16, a ramp loading mechanism 17, and a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) 18. The housing 11 can also be referred to as the base. The ramp loading mechanism 17 is an example of a ramp.

[0024] The housing 11 is made of a metal material such as aluminum alloy. The housing 11 extends along the Y direction and is formed into a rectangular box shape that is open in the +Z direction. The housing 11 has a bottom wall 21 and a peripheral wall 22.

[0025] The bottom wall 21 is formed as a roughly rectangular (quadrilateral) plate extending along the XY plane. The peripheral wall 22 protrudes from the edge of the bottom wall 21 in a roughly +Z direction, forming a roughly rectangular frame. The bottom wall 21 and the peripheral wall 22 are formed as a single unit.

[0026] An inner chamber 25, open in the +Z direction, is provided inside the housing 11. The inner chamber 25 is formed, for example, by a bottom wall 21 and a peripheral wall 22 (defined, demarcated). Thus, the peripheral wall 22 surrounds the inner chamber 25. The housing 11 houses the disk 12, spindle motor 13, read / write head 14, HSA 15, VCM 16, and ramp loading mechanism 17 within the inner chamber 25.

[0027] One or more covers are installed at the end of the peripheral wall 22 in the +Z direction. These covers seal the inner chamber 25 substantially airtight. The inner chamber 25 is filled with a gas different from air. For example, a low-density gas with a lower density than air, an inert gas with low reactivity, etc., are filled into the inner chamber 25. In this embodiment, helium is filled into the inner chamber 25. Alternatively, other fluids may be filled into the inner chamber 25. Furthermore, the inner chamber 25 may be maintained at a vacuum, a near-vacuum low pressure, or a negative pressure lower than atmospheric pressure.

[0028] Multiple disks 12 are configured to extend along the XY plane. The diameter of the disks 12 is, for example, 3.5 inches, but is not limited to this example. Each of the multiple disks 12 has, for example, at least one recording surface 12a and an outer edge 12b.

[0029] Recording surfaces 12a are disposed on at least one of the upper and lower surfaces of the disk 12. In other words, each of the plurality of recording surfaces 12a is either a surface of the disk 12 facing approximately the +Z direction or a surface of the disk 12 facing approximately the -Z direction. Recording surfaces 12a are generally flat surfaces extending along the XY plane. Magnetic recording layers of the disk 12 are disposed on the recording surfaces 12a. Alternatively, a portion of the recording surfaces 12a may not have a magnetic recording layer. The outer edge 12b is the outer peripheral surface of the disk 12.

[0030] The spindle motor 13 is mounted on the bottom wall 21 of the housing 11. Alternatively, the spindle motor 13 can be configured in other locations. Multiple disks 12 are mounted on the spindle motor 13.

[0031] Multiple disks 12 are arranged at intervals in the Z direction. For example, spacers are arranged between the multiple disks 12. The spindle motor 13 has a hub that supports the multiple disks 12. The multiple disks 12 are held in the hub of the spindle motor 13, for example, by clamping springs.

[0032] The spindle motor 13 causes the plurality of disks 12 to rotate about a first rotation axis Ax1. The first rotation axis Ax1 is an imaginary axis extending in a generally Z direction. That is, the first rotation axis Ax1 extends in a direction orthogonal (intersecting) with the recording surface 12a.

[0033] The first rotation axis Ax1 is the center of rotation achieved by the spindle motor 13, and is also the central axis of the disk 12 and the hub of the spindle motor 13. In addition, the central axis of the disk 12 and the central axis of the hub of the spindle motor 13 may be different from the center of rotation achieved by the spindle motor 13.

[0034] The read / write head 14 records and reproduces information on the recording surface 12a of the disk 12. In other words, the read / write head 14 reads and writes information on the disk 12. The read / write head 14 is mounted on the HSA 15.

[0035] The HSA15 is rotatably supported by a support shaft 31 located away from the disk 12. The support shaft 31 extends, for example, from the bottom wall 21 of the housing 11 in a generally +Z direction.

[0036] HSA15 is capable of rotating about a second rotation axis Ax2 that is separated from the first rotation axis Ax1. The second rotation axis Ax2 is an imaginary axis extending approximately in the Z direction. Therefore, the first rotation axis Ax1 and the second rotation axis Ax2 are arranged approximately parallel to each other. The second rotation axis Ax2 is, for example, the center of rotation of HSA15, and also the central axis of the support shaft 31.

[0037] VCM16 rotates HSA15 about the second rotation axis Ax2 and positions it in the desired location. As the head 14 moves to the outermost periphery of the disk 12 by the rotation of HSA15 achieved by VCM16, the ramp loading mechanism 17 holds the head 14 in a position away from the disk 12.

[0038] The HSA15 has an actuator block 35, multiple arms 36, and multiple head suspension assemblies (suspensions) 37. The suspension 37 can also be referred to as the head universal joint assembly (HGA).

[0039] The actuator block 35 is supported by the support shaft 31 in a rotatable manner, for example via bearings. Multiple arms 36 protrude from the actuator block 35 in a direction orthogonal to the second rotation axis Ax2. Furthermore, the HSA15 can also be segmented, with the arms 36 protruding from each of the multiple actuator blocks 35.

[0040] Multiple arms 36 are arranged at intervals in the Z direction. The arms 36 are formed as plates that can respectively enter the gap between adjacent disks 12. The multiple arms 36 extend generally parallel.

[0041] The actuator block 35 and the plurality of arms 36 are formed as a single unit, for example, from aluminum. Furthermore, the materials of the actuator block 35 and the arms 36 are not limited to this example.

[0042] The voice coil of VCM16 is disposed on a protrusion extending from the actuator block 35 to the opposite side of the arm 36. VCM16 has a pair of yokes, a voice coil disposed between the yokes, and a magnet disposed on the yokes.

[0043] Multiple suspensions 37 are mounted on the front end portion of a corresponding arm 36 of a plurality of arms 36 and protrude from that arm 36. Thus, the multiple suspensions 37 are arranged at intervals in the Z direction. Each of the multiple suspensions 37 has a base plate 41, a load beam 42, and a flexible element 43.

[0044] The base plate 41 and the load beam 42 are made of stainless steel, for example. However, the materials of the base plate 41 and the load beam 42 are not limited to this example. The base plate 41 is formed in a plate shape and is mounted on the front end of the arm 36.

[0045] The load beam 42 is mounted on the front end of the base plate 41 and protrudes from the base plate 41 in a direction orthogonal to the second rotation axis Ax2. The load beam 42 is formed as a plate that is thinner than the base plate 41 and extends along the XY plane.

[0046] The flexible element 43 is formed in the form of an elongated strip. Furthermore, the shape of the flexible element 43 is not limited to this example. The flexible element 43 may be, for example, a laminate having a metal plate (lining layer) such as stainless steel, an insulating layer formed on the metal plate, a conductive layer formed on the insulating layer and constituting multiple wirings (wiring patterns), and a protective layer (insulating layer) covering the conductive layer.

[0047] Flexible member 43 is mounted on base plate 41 and load beam 42. One end of flexible member 43 has a movable gimbal portion (elastic support portion) located above load beam 42. Magnetic head 14 is mounted on this gimbal portion. In other words, suspension 37 holds magnetic head 14. Flexible member 43 is electrically connected to magnetic head 14.

[0048] One end of the FPC18 is connected to the flexible element 43. The other end of the FPC18 is connected, for example, via a connector provided on the housing 11 to a substrate disposed outside the housing 11. This substrate, for example, houses a controller for controlling the HDD10 as a whole and an interface connector for connecting to a host computer. This substrate is electrically connected to the magnetic head 14 via the FPC18 and the flexible element 43.

[0049] Figure 2 This is an exemplary top view showing the housing 11, disk 12, and ramp loading mechanism 17 of the first embodiment. (See attached image.) Figure 2 As shown, the ramp loading mechanism 17 is positioned away from the first rotation axis Ax1 in a direction orthogonal to the first rotation axis Ax1. Furthermore, the ramp loading mechanism 17 is positioned away from the second rotation axis Ax2 in a direction orthogonal to the second rotation axis Ax2.

[0050] Figure 3 This is an illustrative top view showing a portion of the housing 11 of the first embodiment and the ramp loading mechanism 17. Figure 4 It is along Figure 3The F4-F4 line represents an exemplary cross-sectional view of a portion of the HDD10 of the first embodiment. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the ramp loading mechanism has a base wall 51, multiple retaining protrusions 52 and mounting plates 53.

[0051] The base wall 51 is formed as a plate extending generally along the Z direction. The base wall 51 has two planes 51a and 51b facing a direction generally orthogonal to the Z direction. The plane 51b is located on the opposite side of the plane 51a.

[0052] Multiple retaining protrusions 52 protrude from the plane 51a of the base wall 51. Each retaining protrusion 52 is respectively provided with a read / write head 14 that reads and writes information to the recording surface 12a of the disk 12 and a suspension 37 that holds the head 14. Therefore, the multiple retaining protrusions 52 are arranged in the Z direction with intervals between them. The corresponding disk 12 is configured within the gaps between the multiple retaining protrusions 52.

[0053] The retaining protrusion 52 is located near the outer edge 12b of the disk 12. The retaining protrusion 52 covers a portion of the recording surface 12a. The retaining protrusion 52 is capable of retaining the front end of the suspension 37 at a position away from the outer edge 12b in a direction orthogonal to the first rotation axis Ax1. Furthermore, the retaining protrusion 52 can also retain the front end of the suspension 37 inside the outer edge 12b in a direction orthogonal to the first rotation axis Ax1.

[0054] When the read / write head 14 is not reading or writing information to the disk 12 (during unloading), as described above, the front end of the suspension 37 remains in the retaining protrusion 52. At this time, the read / write head 14 is positioned away from the outer edge 12b of the disk 12 in a direction orthogonal to the first rotation axis Ax1. Furthermore, the positions of the read / write head 14 and the suspension 37 during unloading are not limited to this example.

[0055] On the other hand, when the read / write head 14 reads or writes information to the disk 12 (during loading), the front end of the suspension 37 is essentially located on the recording surface 12a of the disk 12 together with the read / write head 14. Furthermore, the positions of the read / write head 14 and the suspension 37 during loading are not limited to this example.

[0056] The front end of suspension 37 moves accordingly between the area above recording surface 12a and the position held at holding protrusion 52 (home position) as HSA 15 rotates. The magnetic head 14 and the rotation of suspension 37 and HSA 15 move (rotate) about the second rotation axis Ax2 accordingly.

[0057] like Figure 2 As shown, HSA15 and the suspension 37 included in HSA15 rotate (move) about the second rotation axis Ax2 between the loading position P1 and the unloading position Pu. The loading position P1 and the unloading position Pu are the angles (positions) about the second rotation axis Ax2 extending about HSA15.

[0058] During loading, HSA15 is located at load position P1. That is, when HSA15 is located at load position P1, the read / write head 14 is located on the recording surface 12a of the disk 12. Furthermore, the load position P1 is not limited to one position, but includes multiple positions where the read / write head 14 is located on the recording surface 12a.

[0059] On the other hand, during unloading, HSA15 is in the unloading position Pu. That is, when HSA15 is in the unloading position Pu, the front end of suspension 37 is held by the retaining protrusion 52 of ramp loading mechanism 17 so that the magnetic head 14 leaves the recording surface 12a.

[0060] like Figure 4 As shown, the mounting piece 53 protrudes from the plane 51b of the base wall 51. The mounting piece 53 is formed, for example, as a plate along the XY plane. Furthermore, the shape of the mounting piece 53 is not limited to this example. The mounting piece 53 is mounted on the housing 11.

[0061] The housing 11 also has a support platform 60. The support platform 60 protrudes from the bottom wall 21 in the +Z direction and is connected to the peripheral wall 22. The support platform 60 has a support surface 61. The support surface 61 is formed to be generally flat and faces generally in the +Z direction. The support surface 61 supports the mounting plate 53 of the ramp loading mechanism 17.

[0062] Figure 5 This is an exemplary top view showing the support platform 60 of the first embodiment. (e.g.) Figure 5 As shown, a threaded hole 62 and a retaining hole 63 are provided on the support surface 61. In other words, the threaded hole 62 and the retaining hole 63 are provided on the support platform 60 and open on the support surface 61. The retaining hole 63 is an example of a hole.

[0063] The threaded hole 62 is closer to the disk 12 than the retaining hole 63. In other words, the distance between the threaded hole 62 and the disk 12 is shorter than the distance between the retaining hole 63 and the disk 12. Furthermore, the threaded hole 62 is closer to the base wall 51 of the ramp loading mechanism 17 and the retaining protrusion 52 than the retaining hole 63. However, the location of the threaded hole 62 is not limited to this example.

[0064] The threaded hole 62 and the retaining hole 63 are holes with a circular cross-section, recessed from the support surface 61 in a generally -Z direction. That is, the threaded hole 62 and the retaining hole 63 extend approximately parallel to each other. The threaded hole 62 and the retaining hole 63 are bottomed holes that do not penetrate the housing 11. An internal thread 64 is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the threaded hole 62.

[0065] In a direction orthogonal to the Z direction, the distance L between the threaded hole 62 and the retaining hole 63 is longer than the major diameter of the internal thread 64 of the threaded hole 62. Furthermore, the distance L is not limited to this example.

[0066] The peripheral wall 22 of the shell 11 has an inner surface 66. The inner surface 66 is an example of a side surface. The inner surface 66 faces a direction that is approximately orthogonal to or inclined to the Z-direction. Figure 4 As shown, the inner side 66 faces the inner side of the inner chamber 25, for example, towards the mounting plate 53 of the ramp loading mechanism 17.

[0067] The support platform 60 is connected to the peripheral wall 22, therefore, the inner surface 66 is connected to the edge 61a of the support surface 61. For example, a groove, recess, or protrusion may be provided between the inner surface 66 and the edge 61a of the support surface 61.

[0068] like Figure 3 As shown, the ramp loading mechanism 17, including the mounting plate 53, exits from the inner side 66 of the peripheral wall 22. Furthermore, as... Figure 4 As shown, the base wall 51 and retaining protrusion 52 of the ramp loading mechanism 17 are separated from the support platform 60. Furthermore, the ramp loading mechanism 17 may also contact the inner surface 66.

[0069] Mounting piece 53 has a lower surface 71 and an upper surface 72. Furthermore, the terms "upper" and "lower" in this specification are based on, for example... Figure 4 The term "HDD10" is used for convenience and does not specify the configuration, orientation, or usage of the various elements within the HDD10.

[0070] The lower surface 71 is generally flat and faces approximately -Z. The lower surface 71 contacts and is supported by the support surface 61. Alternatively, other components may be sandwiched between the support surface 61 and the lower surface 71. The upper surface 72 is located on the opposite side of the lower surface 71. The upper surface 72 is generally flat and faces approximately +Z.

[0071] A through hole 74 is provided in the mounting plate 53. The through hole 74 penetrates the mounting plate 53 in a generally Z direction and opens on the lower surface 71 and the upper surface 72. The through hole 74 communicates with a threaded hole 62 provided in the support surface 61. The through hole 74 has a circular cross-section. The diameter of the through hole 74 is longer than the outer diameter of the internal thread 64 of the threaded hole 62. Furthermore, the shape of the cross-section of the through hole 74 is not limited to this example.

[0072] Mounting piece 53 also has an inner surface 75 for a through hole 74. The inner surface 75 is a generally cylindrical curved surface that forms (defines, demarcates) the through hole 74. According to another formulation, the inner surface 75 faces the inside of the through hole 74.

[0073] like Figure 3 As shown, the ramp loading mechanism 17 also has a pin 76. The pin 76 protrudes from the lower surface 71 of the mounting plate 53 toward a generally -Z direction. The -Z direction is an example of the first direction. The pin 76 and the through hole 74 are separated from each other in a direction orthogonal to the Z direction.

[0074] Pin 76 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape. The diameter of pin 76 is slightly shorter than the diameter of retaining hole 63. Furthermore, the shape of pin 76 is not limited to this example. Pin 76 is inserted into retaining hole 63. Thus, ramp loading mechanism 17 can rotate about a third rotation axis Ax3. The third rotation axis Ax3 is an imaginary axis extending in a generally Z direction, such as the central axis of retaining hole 63 and pin 76. Therefore, ramp loading mechanism 17 can rotate about pin 76.

[0075] like Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the mounting piece 53 has a first portion 81 and a second portion 82. The first portion 81 may also be referred to as a sleeve. The first portion 81 is made of, for example, metal. The second portion 82 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and is softer than the first portion 81. For example, the rigidity, hardness, and Young's modulus of the second portion 82 are lower than those of the first portion 81. Furthermore, the mounting piece 53 may also be made of a single material.

[0076] The first part 81 is formed into a generally cylindrical shape extending in a generally Z direction. A through hole 74 is provided on the inner side of the generally cylindrical first part 81. Therefore, the first part 81 has an inner surface 75.

[0077] Part 2 82 is integrally manufactured with Part 1 81, for example, by insert molding. Part 2 82 has a pin 76. In addition, Part 2 82 is integrally formed with base wall 51 and a plurality of retaining protrusions 52. Base wall 51 and retaining protrusions 52 are the same as Part 2 82, for example, made of synthetic resin. Furthermore, base wall 51 and retaining protrusions 52 are not limited to this example.

[0078] On the lower surface 71 and the upper surface 72, the first portion 81 is exposed. Therefore, the first portion 81 has a portion of the lower surface 71, and the second portion 82 has another portion of the lower surface 71. Furthermore, the first portion 81 has a portion of the upper surface 72, and the second portion 82 has another portion of the upper surface 72.

[0079] HDD10 also has screw 90. Screw 90 mounts the mounting plate 53 of ramp loading mechanism 17 to support platform 60 of housing 11. Screw 90 has screw head 91 and screw shaft 92.

[0080] The screw head 91 is formed into a generally cylindrical shape extending in a generally Z direction. The screw head 91 has an upper surface 94 and a lower surface 95. In other words, the upper surface 94 and the lower surface 95 are provided on the screw head 91. The lower surface 95 is an example of a first contact surface.

[0081] The upper surface 94 is formed to be generally flat and faces approximately the +Z direction. A hole 97 for inserting a screwdriver protrusion is provided on the upper surface 94. The lower surface 95 is located on the opposite side of the upper surface 94. The lower surface 95 is formed to be generally conical, tapering towards the front end in approximately the -Z direction. In other words, the diameter of the lower surface 95 decreases in approximately the -Z direction.

[0082] exist Figure 4 In this example, the outline of the lower surface 95 extends in a straight line. However, the lower surface 95 is not limited to this example. For example, the lower surface 95 can also be formed such that the outline of the lower surface 95 extends in an arc shape.

[0083] The helical shaft 92 extends approximately from the center of the lower surface 95 of the screw head 91 along the approximately -Z direction. In other words, the screw head 91 is located at the end of the helical shaft 92 in the +Z direction. The helical shaft 92 is formed into a generally cylindrical shape. The central axis of the screw head 91 and the central axis Axc of the helical shaft 92 are approximately aligned. An external thread 99 is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the helical shaft 92. The outer diameter of the external thread 99 of the helical shaft 92 is shorter than the diameter of the through hole 74.

[0084] The outer diameter of the external thread 99 of the helical shaft 92 is slightly shorter than the outer diameter of the internal thread 64 of the threaded hole 62. The minor diameter of the external thread 99 of the helical shaft 92 is slightly shorter than the minor diameter of the internal thread 64 of the threaded hole 62.

[0085] The helical shaft 92 passes through the through hole 74 of the mounting plate 53 and is embedded in the threaded hole 62 of the support platform 60. Thus, the external thread 99 of the helical shaft 92 and the internal thread 64 of the threaded hole 62 are engaged with each other.

[0086] The lower surface 95 contacts the edge 75a of the inner surface 75 located at the end of the inner surface 75 in the +Z direction. In other words, the lower surface 95 contacts the mounting piece 53. The +Z direction is an example of a second direction. The inner surface 75 is contained within the first part 81, therefore, the lower surface 95 contacts the first part 81.

[0087] The lower surface 95 of the screw head 91 contacts the edge 75a of the inner surface 75 of the mounting piece 53, thereby holding the mounting piece 53 between the support surface 61 and the lower surface 95. Thus, the screw 90 threadedly secures the mounting piece 53 to the support base 60.

[0088] Edge 75a is formed in a generally circular line shape. A generally conical lower surface 95 contacts edge 75a approximately around the entire circumference of the central axis Axc of the helical shaft 92. Therefore, the lower surface 95 presses the mounting piece 53 (edge ​​75a) in a direction orthogonal to the Z-direction such that the central axis of the screw head 91, the central axis Axc of the helical shaft 92, and the central axis of the through hole 74 are approximately aligned. Alternatively, a portion of edge 75a may separate from the lower surface 95.

[0089] The threaded hole 62, the through hole 74, and the screw 90 are disposed near the edge 61a of the support surface 61. In this embodiment, in a direction orthogonal to the Z direction, the shortest distance between the edge 61a of the support surface 61 and the outer diameter of the internal thread 64 of the threaded hole 62 is less than or equal to the distance between the outer diameter of the external thread 99 of the helical shaft 92 and the diameter of the screw head 91. Furthermore, the threaded hole 62, the through hole 74, and the screw 90 are not limited to this example.

[0090] The mounting piece 53 is threadedly fixed to the support platform 60 by screws 90. The support surface 61 and the screw head 91 apply a load (axial force) in the Z direction to the mounting piece 53. Thus, the screws 90 restrict the movement of the mounting piece 53 in the Z direction by holding the mounting piece 53 between the support surface 61 and the lower surface 95.

[0091] With the lower surface 95, which tapers at the tip along the -Z direction, in contact with the edge 75a, the screw head 91 applies a load in the -Z direction to the mounting piece 53. Therefore, the load acting on the edge 75a from the lower surface 95 can be decomposed into a component in the -Z direction and a component in a direction orthogonal to the -Z direction. That is, the lower surface 95 presses against the edge 75a in a direction orthogonal to the Z direction, and the screw 90 restricts the movement of the mounting piece 53 in the direction orthogonal to the Z direction.

[0092] Pin 76 is positioned away from screw 90 in a direction orthogonal to the Z direction and engages with retaining hole 63. Therefore, screw 90 restricts mounting piece 53 from rotating about a third rotation axis Ax3, which is the central axis of pin 76. Furthermore, pin 76 restricts mounting piece 53 from rotating about the central axis Axc of helical shaft 92.

[0093] Sometimes a small gap exists between the inner surface of the retaining hole 63 and the outer peripheral surface of the pin 76. In this case, the mounting piece 53 can rotate slightly about the central axis Axc. However, in this embodiment, the screw 90 is located near the edge 61a of the support surface 61 and away from the pin 76. Therefore, the range of rotation that the mounting piece 53 can rotate is smaller.

[0094] Based on the above, the ramp loading mechanism 17 is restricted from moving in any of the following directions: the Z direction, the direction orthogonal to the Z direction, the direction of rotation about the third rotation axis Ax3, and the direction of rotation about the central axis Axc. Therefore, the ramp loading mechanism 17 is positioned more reliably.

[0095] For example, in the event of an external impact on HDD10, disk 12 may sometimes collide with ramp loading mechanism 17. However, since ramp loading mechanism 17 is reliably positioned, it is held in its predetermined position. Because the position of ramp loading mechanism 17 is maintained, the unloading position Pu of read / write head 14 and suspension 37 is also maintained.

[0096] When the above-mentioned ramp loading mechanism 17 is installed on the housing 11, firstly, the pin 76 is inserted into the retaining hole 63. At this time, the threaded hole 62 and the through hole 74 may also be separated from each other about the third rotation axis Ax3.

[0097] Next, the ramp loading mechanism 17 is rotated about the third rotation axis Ax3 to connect the threaded hole 62 and the through hole 74. Then, the helical shaft 92 of the screw 90 is inserted into the through hole 74 and embedded in the threaded hole 62. The screw 90 is tightened until the lower surface 95 contacts the edge 75a. Through the above, the ramp loading mechanism 17 is mounted to the housing 11. However, the method of mounting the ramp loading mechanism 17 to the housing 11 is not limited to this example.

[0098] In the HDD 10 described above according to the first embodiment, the ramp loading mechanism 17 has a mounting piece 53 with a through hole 74. The housing 11 has a support surface 61 with a threaded hole 62 supporting the mounting piece 53. The screw 90 has a screw head 91, a helical shaft 92, and a lower surface 95. The helical shaft 92 extends from the screw head 91 in the -Z direction and passes through the through hole 74 to be inserted into the threaded hole 62. The lower surface 95 is provided on the screw head 91, tapers at its tip in the -Z direction, and contacts the mounting piece 53. The screw 90 holds the mounting piece 53 between the support surface 61 and the lower surface 95. By contacting the lower surface 95, which tapers at its tip in the -Z direction, with the mounting piece 53, the screw 90 restricts the movement of the mounting piece 53 not only in the -Z direction and the +Z direction, but also in a direction orthogonal to the -Z direction. Therefore, screw 90 can more reliably position ramp loading mechanism 17, and can suppress ramp loading mechanism 17 from deviating from the predetermined position, for example, in the event of a collision between disk 12 and ramp loading mechanism 17.

[0099] Conventionally, for example, the ramp loading mechanism 17 is sometimes positioned by bringing the mounting plate 53 into contact with the inner surface 66 of the housing 11. However, in the HDD 10 of this embodiment, the screw 90 restricts the movement of the mounting plate 53 in a direction orthogonal to the -Z direction. Therefore, the mounting plate 53 does not need to contact the inner surface 66, and the inner surface 66 can move away from the mounting plate 53. In this case, even if the screw 90 is positioned at the end of the mounting plate 53, interference between the screw 90 or the tool for tightening the screw 90 and the inner surface 66 can be suppressed. Therefore, the HDD 10 of this embodiment can increase the freedom of screw placement.

[0100] The lower surface 95 is disposed on the screw head 91. That is, the screw head 91 directly contacts the mounting plate 53. As a result, the screw 90 does not require a washer or other component between the screw head 91 and the mounting plate 53, thus reducing the number of components.

[0101] The mounting piece 53 has an inner surface 75 with a through hole 74. The lower surface 95 contacts the edge 75a of the inner surface 75 at its end in the +Z direction. Thus, the mounting piece 53 can be formed into a simple shape, which can reduce costs.

[0102] A retaining hole 63 is provided on the support surface 61. The ramp loading mechanism 17 has a pin 76 that protrudes from the mounting plate 53 in the -Z direction and is embedded in the retaining hole 63. The ramp loading mechanism 17 is rotatable about the pin 76. A through hole 74 exits from the pin 76 in a direction orthogonal to the -Z direction. Thus, the screw 90 restricts the ramp loading mechanism 17 from rotating about the pin 76, and together with the pin 76, restricts the ramp loading mechanism 17 from moving in a direction orthogonal to the -Z direction. Therefore, the screw 90 and the pin 76 more reliably position the ramp loading mechanism 17, preventing the ramp loading mechanism 17 from deviating from its predetermined position.

[0103] In a direction orthogonal to the -Z direction, the distance L between the retaining hole 63 and the threaded hole 62 is longer than the outer diameter of the threaded hole 62. That is, the screw 90 holds the mounting piece 53 away from the retaining hole 63, which serves as the center of rotation of the ramp loading mechanism 17, and the pin 76. Thus, even if, for example, there is a gap between the inner surface of the retaining hole 63 and the outer peripheral surface of the pin 76, the range of rotation of the ramp loading mechanism 17 around the screw 90 can be reduced.

[0104] The housing 11 has an inner surface 66 that connects to the edge 61a of the support surface 61 and faces the mounting plate 53. The mounting plate 53 is separated from this inner surface 66. Thus, even if, for example, a screw 90 is disposed at the end of the mounting plate 53, interference between the inner surface 66 and the screw 90 or the tool for fastening the screw 90 can be suppressed. Therefore, for example, the distance between other parts or components that position the ramp loading mechanism 17, such as the pin 76, and the screw 90 can be set to be long.

[0105] In a direction orthogonal to the -Z direction, the shortest distance between the edge 61a of the support surface 61 and the outer diameter of the internal thread 64 of the threaded hole 62 is less than or equal to the distance between the outer diameter of the external thread 99 of the helical shaft 92 and the diameter of the screw head 91. That is, the threaded hole 62, the through hole 74, and the screw 90 are located near the edge 61a of the support surface 61. Thus, for example, the distance between other parts or components that position the ramp loading mechanism 17, such as the pin 76, and the screw 90 can be set to be longer. In addition, since the mounting piece 53 is separated from the inner surface 66, interference between the inner surface 66 and the screw 90 or the tool used to fasten the screw 90 can be suppressed.

[0106] The mounting plate 53 has a first portion 81 with a through hole 74 and a second portion 82 that is softer than the first portion 81. The lower surface 95 contacts the first portion 81. Thus, deformation of the mounting plate 53 due to the axial force applied from the screw 90 can be suppressed.

[0107] (Second Implementation)

[0108] The following is for reference Figure 6 The second embodiment will be described. Furthermore, in the following descriptions of various embodiments, components having the same function as those already described are labeled with the same reference numerals, and sometimes descriptions are omitted. Additionally, the multiple components labeled with the same reference numerals are not limited to having all the same functions and properties; they may also have different functions and properties corresponding to each embodiment.

[0109] Figure 6 This is an illustrative cross-sectional view showing a portion of the HDD10 according to the second embodiment. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the ramp loading mechanism 17 of the second embodiment has a mounting plate 200 instead of the mounting plate 53. The mounting plate 200 is substantially the same as the mounting plate 53 of the first embodiment, except for the points to be explained below.

[0110] The mounting plate 200 has an inclined surface 201. The inclined surface 201 is an example of a second contact surface. The inclined surface 201 is disposed between the upper surface 72 and the edge 75a of the inner surface 75. In other words, the inclined surface 201 is connected to the edge 75a of the inner surface 75 and is disposed at the entrance of the through hole 74.

[0111] The inclined surface 201 is formed into a generally conical shape that tapers towards the front end along the approximately -Z direction. In other words, the inclined surface 201 tapers towards the inner surface 75. The angle between the central axis of the through hole 74 and the inclined surface 201 is approximately equal to the angle between the central axis Axc of the helical shaft 92 and the lower surface 95. Furthermore, the angle of the inclined surface 201 is not limited to this example.

[0112] The diameter of the edge 201a of the inclined surface 201 located at the end of the inclined surface 201 in the +Z direction is longer than the diameter of the screw head 91. The first part 81 has the inclined surface 201. Therefore, the diameter of the outer peripheral surface of the generally cylindrical first part 81 is greater than the diameter of the edge 201a.

[0113] In the second embodiment, the lower surface 95 of the screw head 91 contacts the inclined surface 201. The generally conical lower surface 95 contacts the generally conical inclined surface 201 approximately around the central axis Axc of the helical shaft 92. Therefore, the lower surface 95 presses the mounting piece 53 (inclined surface 201) in a direction orthogonal to the Z direction in such a way that the central axis of the screw head 91, the central axis Axc of the helical shaft 92, and the central axis of the through hole 74 are substantially aligned. Furthermore, a portion of the inclined surface 201 may also separate from the lower surface 95. Additionally, the lower surface 95 may also contact the edge 75a of the inner surface 75.

[0114] In the HDD10 of the second embodiment described above, the mounting piece 53 has an inner surface 75 with a through hole 74 and an inclined surface 201. The inclined surface 201 connects to the edge 75a of the inner surface 75 at the end of the inner surface 75 located in the +Z direction, and tapers towards the inner surface 75. The lower surface 95 contacts the inclined surface 201. As a result, the screw 90 more effectively restricts the movement of the mounting piece 53 in a direction orthogonal to the -Z direction. Therefore, the screw 90 more reliably positions the ramp loading mechanism 17, and can suppress the ramp loading mechanism 17 from deviating from the predetermined position. Furthermore, the lower surface 95 contacts the inclined surface 201, which is a surface, rather than a point or an edge, so it is possible to suppress the deformation of the lower surface 95 itself or the deformation of the mounting piece 200.

[0115] The diameter of the edge 201a of the inclined surface 201 located at the end of the inclined surface 201 in the +Z direction is longer than the diameter of the screw head 91. Therefore, for example, when the hardness of the inner surface 75 with the through hole 74 in the mounting plate 53 and the first portion 81 of the inclined surface 201 differs from that of the other second portion 82, the inner surface 75 with the through hole 74 and the first portion 81 of the inclined surface 201 individually contact the lower surface 95. Thus, the strength design of the ramp loading mechanism 17 is simplified, and the design of the ramp loading mechanism 17 becomes easier.

[0116] (Third Implementation)

[0117] The following is for reference Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 The third embodiment will be described. Figure 7 This is an illustrative cross-sectional view showing a portion of the HDD10 according to the third embodiment. For example... Figure 7As shown, the screw 90 of the third embodiment has a screw head 300 instead of a screw head 91. The screw head 300 is substantially the same as the screw head 91 of the first embodiment, except for the points to be explained below.

[0118] The screw head 300 has a lower surface 301 replacing the lower surface 95. The lower surface 301 is formed to be generally flat and oriented in a generally -Z direction. The screw shaft 92 extends from the lower surface 301 in a generally -Z direction. The lower surface 301 faces the upper surface 72 of the mounting plate 53.

[0119] The screw 90 in the third embodiment also has a first washer 311 and a second washer 312. The first washer 311 is an example of a washer. Furthermore, the second washer 312 may be omitted.

[0120] The first washer 311 is formed in a generally disk-shaped configuration, approximately orthogonal to the Z-direction. The first washer 311 has an upper surface 321 and a lower surface 322. In other words, the upper surface 321 and the lower surface 322 are disposed on the first washer 311. The lower surface 322 is an example of a first contact surface. The upper surface 321 is formed to be generally flat and faces approximately the +Z direction. The upper surface 321 faces the lower surface 301 of the screw head 300. The lower surface 322 is located on the opposite side of the upper surface 321.

[0121] A through hole 324 is provided in the first washer 311. The through hole 324 is located approximately at the center of the first washer 311 in a direction orthogonal to the Z direction, and extends through the first washer 311 in the approximately Z direction. Therefore, the through hole 324 is open on the upper surface 321 and the lower surface 322.

[0122] The helical shaft 92 extends through the through hole 324. Therefore, the first washer 311 is located between the lower surface 301 of the screw head 300 and the mounting plate 53. Furthermore, the lower surface 322 is located between the screw head 300 and the mounting plate 53. The helical shaft 92 passes through the through hole 324 and the through hole 74 and is inserted into the threaded hole 62. The diameter of the through hole 324 is slightly longer than the outer diameter of the external thread 99 of the helical shaft 92. Furthermore, the diameter of the through hole 324 is shorter than the diameter of the through hole 74.

[0123] The lower surface 322 of the first washer 311 is formed into a generally conical shape that tapers at the front end along the generally -Z direction. The lower surface 322 contacts the edge 75a of the inner surface 75 of the through hole 74. In other words, the lower surface 322 contacts the mounting piece 53.

[0124] The upper surface 321 can also be formed as a generally conical shape, symmetrical to the lower surface 322, tapering towards the front end along the +Z direction. In this case, the shape of the upper surface 321 is approximately the same as the shape of the lower surface 322, therefore, it is not necessary to confirm the orientation of the first washer 311 when it is mounted on the screw shaft 92. As a result, the manufacture of the screw 90 becomes easier.

[0125] Figure 8 This is an illustrative cross-sectional view showing a portion of the HDD10 involved in a variation of the third embodiment. For example... Figure 8 As shown, when the mounting plate 200 has an inclined surface 201, the lower surface 322 contacts the inclined surface 201.

[0126] As described above, the lower surface 322 can contact the edge 75a of the inner surface 75 in the same way as the lower surface 95 in the first embodiment, and it can also contact the inclined surface 201 in the same way as the lower surface 95 in the second embodiment. In addition, the lower surface 322 can also contact other parts of the mounting pieces 53 and 200.

[0127] The second washer 312 is disposed between the lower surface 301 of the screw head 300 and the first washer 311. The second washer 312 is, for example, a spring washer, to prevent the screw 90 from loosening.

[0128] In the HDD10 of the third embodiment described above, a first washer 311 is provided on the lower surface 322 between the screw head 300 and the mounting plates 53, 200. Therefore, the screw head 300 can be formed into a generally flat shape, reducing the cost of the screw 90. Furthermore, another second washer 312, such as a spring washer, can be disposed between the screw head 300 and the first washer 311, which can reduce the loosening of the screw 90.

[0129] The helical shaft 92 passes through the insertion hole 324 provided in the first washer 311. The diameter of the insertion hole 324 is shorter than the diameter of the through hole 74. That is, the gap between the helical shaft 92 and the inner surface of the insertion hole 324 is narrower than the gap between the helical shaft 92 and the inner surface 75 of the through hole 74. Therefore, the screw 90 can restrict the movement of the mounting pieces 53, 200 in a direction orthogonal to the -Z direction.

[0130] (Fourth implementation)

[0131] The following is for reference Figure 9 The fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 9 This is an illustrative cross-sectional view showing a portion of the HDD10 according to the fourth embodiment. For example... Figure 9 As shown, in the fourth embodiment, the generally flat lower surface 301 of the screw head 300 contacts the inclined surface 201 of the mounting plate 200.

[0132] The generally conical inclined surface 201 contacts the lower surface 301 approximately around the central axis Axc of the screw shaft 92. Therefore, the lower surface 301 presses the mounting piece 200 (inclined surface 201) in a direction orthogonal to the Z direction in such a way that the central axis of the screw head 91, the central axis Axc of the screw shaft 92, and the central axis of the through hole 74 are approximately aligned.

[0133] In the HDD 10 of the fourth embodiment described above, the lower surface 301 of the screw head 300 contacts the inclined surface 201 that tapers towards the inner surface 75. The screw 90 holds the mounting piece 200 between the support surface 61 and the lower surface 301. By contacting the lower surface 301 with the inclined surface 201 that tapers towards the inner surface 75, the screw 90 restricts the movement of the mounting piece 200 not only in the -Z and +Z directions but also in directions orthogonal to the -Z direction. As a result, the screw 90 can more reliably position the ramp loading mechanism 17, and for example, can prevent the ramp loading mechanism 17 from deviating from its predetermined position in the event of a collision between the disk 12 and the ramp loading mechanism 17.

[0134] In the above description, suppression is defined, for example, as preventing the occurrence of an event, action, or effect, or reducing the degree of an event, action, or effect. Similarly, in the above description, restriction is defined, for example, as preventing movement or rotation, or allowing movement or rotation within a predetermined range and preventing movement or rotation beyond that predetermined range.

[0135] Several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in a wide variety of other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and / or variations thereof are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included within the scope of the invention as described in the claims and its equivalents.

Claims

1. A disk device comprising: A disk has a recording surface; The read / write head is configured to read and write information on the disk. The suspension is configured to hold the magnetic head and move between a loaded position where the magnetic head is located on the recording surface and an unloaded position where the magnetic head has left the recording surface; The ramp, configured to hold the suspension in the unloading position, has a mounting plate with a through hole; A housing that accommodates the disk, the read / write head, the suspension, and the ramp, having a support surface with threaded holes that supports the mounting plate; and A screw has: a screw head; a helical shaft extending from the screw head along a first direction and passing through the through hole to be inserted into the threaded hole; and a first contact surface disposed between the screw head or between the screw head and the mounting plate, tapering at a front end along the first direction and contacting the mounting plate, the screw holding the mounting plate between the support surface and the first contact surface. A hole is provided on the support surface. The ramp has a pin that protrudes from the mounting piece along the first direction and is embedded in the hole, and is rotatable about the pin. In a direction orthogonal to the first direction, the through hole exits from the pin.

2. The disk device according to claim 1, The first contact surface is disposed on the screw head.

3. The disk device according to claim 1, The screw also has a washer located between the screw head and the mounting plate. The first contact surface is disposed on the washer.

4. The disc device according to claim 3, The spiral shaft passes through the through hole provided in the washer. The diameter of the insertion hole is shorter than the diameter of the through hole.

5. The disk device according to claim 1, The mounting plate has the inner surface of the through hole. The first contact surface contacts the edge of the inner surface at the end of the inner surface located in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

6. The disk device according to claim 1, The mounting piece has an inner surface of the through hole and a second contact surface, the second contact surface being connected to the edge of the inner surface at an end located in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and tapering towards the inner surface. The first contact surface is in contact with the second contact surface.

7. The disk device according to claim 6, The diameter of the edge of the second contact surface at the end of the second contact surface in the second direction is longer than the diameter of the screw head.

8. The disk device according to claim 1, In a direction orthogonal to the first direction, the distance between the hole and the threaded hole is longer than the outer diameter of the threaded hole.

9. The disc device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The housing has a side that connects to the edge of the support surface and faces the mounting plate. The mounting plate leaves the side.

10. The disk device according to claim 9, In a direction orthogonal to the first direction, the shortest distance between the edge of the support surface and the outer diameter of the internal thread of the threaded hole is less than the distance between the outer diameter of the external thread of the helical shaft and the diameter of the screw head.

11. The disc device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The mounting piece has a first portion having the through hole and a second portion that is softer than the first portion. The first contact surface is in contact with the first part.

12. A disk device comprising: A disk has a recording surface; The read / write head is configured to read and write information on the disk. The suspension is configured to hold the magnetic head and move between a loaded position where the magnetic head is located on the recording surface and an unloaded position where the magnetic head has left the recording surface; The ramp, configured to hold the suspension in the unloading position, has a mounting plate with a through hole; A housing that accommodates the disk, the read / write head, the suspension, and the ramp, having a support surface with threaded holes that supports the mounting plate; and A screw has: a screw head; and a helical shaft extending from the screw head along a first direction and passing through the through hole to be inserted into the threaded hole, the screw holding the mounting piece between the support surface and the screw head. The mounting piece has an inner surface of the through hole and an inclined surface, the inclined surface being connected to the edge of the inner surface at an end located in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and tapering towards the inner surface at its front end. The screw head contacts the inclined surface. A hole is provided on the support surface. The ramp has a pin that protrudes from the mounting piece along the first direction and is embedded in the hole, and is rotatable about the pin. In a direction orthogonal to the first direction, the through hole exits from the pin.

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