Disk device

Abstract

To provide a disk device capable of suppressing deterioration in performance of a plurality of adsorbents.SOLUTION: A disk device according to one embodiment includes a magnetic disk, a housing, a first filter unit, and a second filter unit. The housing includes an internal space and a first through hole. The first filter unit has a first case provided with a first housing space, a first adsorbent arranged in the first housing space, and a first filter. The first housing space communicates with the first through hole and communicates with the internal space through the first filter. The second filter unit has a second case provided with a second housing space, a second adsorbent arranged in the second housing space, and a second filter. The second housing space is separated from the first housing space and communicated with the internal space through the second filter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a disk drive. [Background technology]

[0002] A disk drive such as a hard disk drive (HDD) has a housing that houses various components such as a magnetic disk, and an adsorbent that adsorbs a specific substance inside the housing. A disk drive may have multiple adsorbents. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 8,599,515 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The adsorbents differ from one another in at least one of their purposes and properties, and therefore, if the adsorbents are placed in one location and treated under the same conditions, there is a risk that the performance of at least one of the adsorbents will be reduced.

[0005] One example of a problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a disk drive that can prevent a decrease in the performance of a plurality of adsorbents. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one embodiment, a disk drive includes a magnetic disk, a housing, a first filter unit, and a second filter unit. The housing includes a base having an internal space and a first cover having a first through-hole and attached to the base so as to close the internal space, and the magnetic disk is accommodated in the internal space. The first filter unit includes a first case having a first accommodation space, a first adsorbent disposed in the first accommodation space, and a first filter attached to the first case. The first case is attached to the first cover in the internal space, and the first accommodation space communicates with the first through-hole and with the internal space via the first filter. The second filter unit has a second case having a second storage space, a second adsorbent disposed in the second storage space, and a second filter attached to the second case, the second case being attached to the first cover in the internal space, the second storage space being separated from the first storage space and communicating with the internal space through the second filter. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exemplary plan view showing an HDD according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exemplary cross-sectional view showing a part of the HDD of the first embodiment taken along line F2-F2 in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an exemplary cross-sectional view partially illustrating the inner cover and breathing filter attached to the base of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exemplary cross-sectional view showing a part of an HDD according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an exemplary cross-sectional view partially illustrating the inner cover and the breathing filter before they are attached to the base of the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an exemplary cross-sectional view showing a part of an HDD according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] (First embodiment) A first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. In this specification, components according to the embodiment and descriptions of the components may be described using multiple expressions. The components and their descriptions are merely examples and are not limited by the expressions in this specification. The components may also be identified by names different from those in this specification. Furthermore, the components may also be described using expressions different from those in this specification.

[0009] In the following description, "suppress" is defined as, for example, preventing an event, action, or influence from occurring, or reducing the severity of an event, action, or influence. Also, in the following description, "restrict" is defined as, for example, preventing movement or rotation, or allowing movement or rotation within a predetermined range and preventing movement or rotation beyond the predetermined range.

[0010] Fig. 1 is an exemplary plan view showing a hard disk drive (HDD) 10 according to a first embodiment. Fig. 2 is an exemplary cross-sectional view showing a portion of the HDD 10 of the first embodiment taken along line F2-F2 in Fig. 1. The HDD 10 is an example of a disk device, and may also be referred to as an electronic device, a storage device, an external storage device, or a magnetic disk device.

[0011] As shown in the drawings, for convenience, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are defined in this specification. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are perpendicular to one another. The X-axis is aligned along the width of the HDD 10. The Y-axis is aligned along the length of the HDD 10. The Z-axis is aligned along the thickness of the HDD 10.

[0012] Furthermore, in this specification, the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction are defined. The X direction is a direction along the X axis, and includes the +X direction indicated by the X axis arrow and the -X direction opposite to the X axis arrow. The Y direction is a direction along the Y axis, and includes the +Y direction indicated by the Y axis arrow and the -Y direction opposite to the Y axis arrow. The Z direction is a direction along the Z axis, and includes the +Z direction indicated by the Z axis arrow and the -Z direction opposite to the Z axis arrow.

[0013] 1 and 2, the HDD 10 includes a housing 11, multiple magnetic disks 12, a spindle motor 13, a head stack assembly (HSA) 14, a voice coil motor (VCM) 15, a ramp load mechanism 16, a printed circuit board (PCB) 17, and a breather filter 18. The magnetic disks 12 may also be called disks or platters.

[0014] As shown in Fig. 2, the housing 11 has a base 21, an inner cover 22, an outer cover 23, and a relay board 24. Note that the housing 11 is not limited to this example. Note that the inner cover 22 and the outer cover 23 are omitted from Fig. 1. The inner cover 22 is an example of a first cover. The outer cover 23 is an example of a second cover.

[0015] 1, the base 21 is formed in a substantially rectangular box shape that is open in the +Z direction. The base 21 has a bottom wall 25 and side walls 26. The bottom wall 25 is formed in a substantially rectangular (quadrilateral) plate shape that extends substantially perpendicular to the Z direction. The side walls 26 protrude from the edges of the bottom wall 25 in the substantially +Z direction and are formed in a substantially rectangular frame shape.

[0016] An internal space SI is provided in the base 21. The internal space SI is formed (defined, partitioned) by a bottom wall 25 and a side wall 26. The side wall 26 surrounds the internal space SI. The multiple magnetic disks 12, the spindle motor 13, the HSA 14, the VCM 15, the ramp load mechanism 16, and the breathing filter 18 are housed in the internal space SI.

[0017] 2, the inner cover 22 is attached to the base 21. For example, the inner cover 22 is attached to the end of the side wall 26 in the +Z direction by, for example, screws 28. In this way, the inner cover 22 closes the internal space SI.

[0018] The inner cover 22 has an inner surface 22a and an outer surface 22b. The inner surface 22a faces the internal space SI, the bottom wall 25, and the end of the side wall 26 in the +Z direction. The outer surface 22b is located opposite the inner surface 22a.

[0019] An endless gasket 29 is interposed between the inner surface 22a of the inner cover 22 and the side wall 26. The gasket 29 provides an airtight seal between the inner cover 22 and the side wall 26. The gasket 29 is made of, for example, synthetic rubber with low helium permeability. However, the gasket 29 may also be made of other materials.

[0020] The outer cover 23 covers the inner cover 22 and is attached to the base 21. This provides a space SB between the outer cover 23 and the inner cover 22. Note that the space SB may be partially filled with, for example, double-sided tape that bonds the inner cover 22 and the outer cover 23. For example, the outer cover 23 is attached by welding to the end of the side wall 26 in the +Z direction. This allows the outer cover 23 to airtightly seal the space SB. Note that the outer cover 23 may be omitted.

[0021] Two ventilation holes 31, 32 are provided in the inner cover 22. The ventilation hole 31 is an example of a first through-hole. The ventilation hole 32 is an example of a second through-hole. The ventilation holes 31, 32 each penetrate the inner cover 22 substantially in the Z direction and open to the inner surface 22a and the outer surface 22b. Therefore, the ventilation holes 31, 32 communicate between the internal space SI and the space SB.

[0022] After components are placed in the internal space SI and the inner cover 22 is attached to the base 21, the air in the internal space SI is evacuated through at least one of the ventilation holes 31 and 32. Furthermore, the internal space SI is filled with a gas other than air through at least one of the ventilation holes 31 and 32.

[0023] The gas filled in the internal space SI is, for example, a low-density gas having a density lower than that of air, or an inert gas having low reactivity. For example, helium is filled in the internal space SI. Helium is an example of the first gas. Note that other fluids may also be filled in the internal space SI.

[0024] The housing 11 further has two seals 35 and 36. The seal 35 is an example of a first seal. The seal 36 is an example of a second seal. The seals 35 and 36 are, for example, aluminum seals.

[0025] The seal 35 airtightly closes the ventilation hole 31. The seal 36 airtightly closes the ventilation hole 32. The seals 35 and 36 are attached to the outer surface 22b of the inner cover 22 in the space SB outside the internal space SI. In this way, the seals 35 and 36 restrict helium in the internal space SI from leaking from the ventilation holes 31 and 32 to the outside of the housing 11.

[0026] A through hole 41 is provided in the bottom wall 25. The through hole 41 penetrates the bottom wall 25 substantially in the Z direction to connect the internal space SI to the outside. The relay board 24 is attached to the bottom wall 25 to airtightly close the through hole 41. The relay board 24 has a board 45 and two relay connectors 46 and 47.

[0027] The substrate 45 is a rigid substrate such as a glass epoxy substrate. The substrate 45 covers the through-hole 41 and is attached to the bottom wall 25. The substrate 45 airtightly seals the through-hole 41. Two relay connectors 46 and 47 are mounted on both sides of the substrate 45 and are electrically connected to each other.

[0028] 1, the magnetic disks 12 are formed into a disk shape that extends perpendicular to the Z direction. The magnetic disks 12 are arranged in the Z direction with intervals between them. Magnetic recording layers are provided on both sides of the magnetic disks 12.

[0029] The spindle motor 13 supports the plurality of magnetic disks 12. The plurality of magnetic disks 12 are held on a hub of the spindle motor 13 by, for example, clamp springs. The spindle motor 13 rotates the plurality of magnetic disks 12 as a unit.

[0030] The housing 11 further has a support shaft 51 spaced apart from the magnetic disk 12. The support shaft 51 protrudes, for example, from the bottom wall 25 in approximately the +Z direction. The HSA 14 is rotatably supported by the support shaft 51.

[0031] The HSA 14 can rotate around a central axis Axh. The central axis Axh is an imaginary axis extending substantially in the Z direction. The central axis Axh is, for example, the center of rotation of the HSA 14 and also the central axis of the support shaft 51.

[0032] The HSA 14 includes a carriage 55, a plurality of head gimbal assemblies (HGA) 56, a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) 57, a support plate 58, and a relay connector 59 shown in FIG. 2. That is, the FPC 57 is located in the internal space SI. As shown in FIG. 1, the carriage 55 includes an actuator block 61 and a plurality of arms 62.

[0033] The actuator block 61 is attached to the support shaft 51 via a bearing so as to be rotatable around the central axis Axh, for example. A plurality of arms 62 protrude from the actuator block 61 substantially parallel to the direction substantially perpendicular to the central axis Axh.

[0034] Each of the multiple HGAs 56 has a magnetic head 71 and a suspension 72. The magnetic head 71 may also be referred to as a slider. The magnetic head 71 records and reproduces information on a corresponding one of the multiple magnetic disks 12. In other words, the magnetic head 71 reads and writes information from and to the magnetic disk 12. The suspension 72 is attached to the arm 62 and holds the magnetic head 71.

[0035] The suspension 72 has a base plate 75, a load beam 76, and a flexure 77. The base plate 75 is attached to the tip of the arm 62. The load beam 76 is formed in a plate shape that is thinner than the base plate 75. The load beam 76 is attached to the base plate 75 so as to extend from the base plate 75.

[0036] The flexure 77 is a type of flexible printed wiring board formed in a long, thin strip shape, and includes, for example, a metal backing plate, an insulating base layer, a conductive layer, and an insulating cover layer.

[0037] The flexure 77 extends along the arm 62, the base plate 75, and the load beam 76. A rotatable gimbal portion is provided at one end 77a of the flexure 77. The magnetic head 71 is attached to the gimbal portion of the flexure 77.

[0038] One end 57a of the FPC 57 is attached to the actuator block 61. The other ends 77b of the multiple flexures 77 are connected to the end 57a of the FPC 57. Therefore, the flexures 77 electrically connect the magnetic head 71 and the FPC 57.

[0039] The other end 57b of the FPC 57 is attached to a support plate 58. The support plate 58 is made of, for example, metal or synthetic resin. The rigidity of the support plate 58 is higher than the rigidity of the FPC 57. The support plate 58 has an attachment portion 81 and an upright portion 82.

[0040] The mounting portion 81 is disposed along the bottom wall 25 of the base 21 and is attached to the bottom wall 25 with, for example, screws. The end portion 57b of the FPC 57 is attached to the mounting portion 81. As shown in FIG. 2, the relay connector 59 is mounted on the end portion 57b. The mounting portion 81 reinforces the end portion 57b of the FPC 57 on which the relay connector 59 is mounted. The relay connector 59 is connected to the relay connector 46 of the relay board 24.

[0041] The standing portion 82 extends substantially in the Z direction from the mounting portion 81. The standing portion 82 supports the FPC 57 so that the width of the FPC 57 between the two ends 57a, 57b substantially coincides with the Z direction. The standing portion 82 is disposed, for example, along the XZ plane. However, the standing portion 82 is not limited to this example.

[0042] The VCM 15 has a voice coil, a pair of yokes, and a magnet attached to the yokes. The voice coil is held by an actuator block 61. The VCM 15 rotates a carriage 55 around a central axis Axh to move the magnetic head 71 to a desired position.

[0043] When the magnetic head 71 moves to the outer edge of the magnetic disk 12 due to the rotation of the HSA 14 by the VCM 15, the ramp load mechanism 16 in FIG.

[0044] 2, the PCB 17 is disposed outside the internal space SI and attached to the bottom wall 25. The PCB 17 has a printed wiring board (PWB) 91 and a relay connector 92. The PWB 91 is, for example, a rigid board such as a glass epoxy board, and is a multilayer board or a build-up board.

[0045] The relay connector 92 is mounted on the PWB 91. The relay connector 92 is connected to the relay connector 47 of the relay board 24. As a result, the PCB 17 is electrically connected to the magnetic head 71 through the relay board 24, the FPC 57, and the flexure 77.

[0046] The PCB 17 further includes various electronic components mounted on the PWB 91, such as an interface (I / F) connector connected to a host computer and a controller that controls the operation of the HDD 10. The controller on the PCB 17 controls the spindle motor 13, the VCM 15, and the magnetic head 71 through relay connectors 92, 47, 46, and 59.

[0047] The breathing filter 18 is attached to the inner cover 22. The breathing filter 18 has a first filter unit 101 and a second filter unit 102. Note that the breathing filter 18 may have three or more filter units.

[0048] The first filter unit 101 has a first case 111, a first adsorbent 112, and a first filter 113. In this embodiment, the first filter unit 101 has a single first adsorbent 112 and a single first filter 113. Note that the first filter unit 101 is not limited to this example.

[0049] The first case 111 is made of, for example, a synthetic resin or metal that has low helium permeability. The first case 111 has a first base 115 and a first peripheral wall 116. The first peripheral wall 116 is an example of a first wall.

[0050] The first base 115 is formed in a plate shape and arranged along the inner surface 22a of the inner cover 22. The first base 115 is attached to the inner surface 22a with, for example, double-sided tape or adhesive. That is, the first case 111 is attached to the inner cover 22 in the internal space SI.

[0051] The first base portion 115 is attached to the inner cover 22, covering the ventilation port 31. A first communication hole 117 is provided in the first base portion 115. The first communication hole 117 communicates with the ventilation port 31.

[0052] The first peripheral wall 116 is a cylindrical wall that protrudes substantially in the -Z direction from the first base 115. A first storage space SC1 is provided inside the first peripheral wall 116. That is, the first storage space SC1 is provided in the first case 111.

[0053] The first adsorbent 112 is disposed in the first storage space SC1. Therefore, the first peripheral wall 116 surrounds the first adsorbent 112. In this embodiment, the first adsorbent 112 is a moisture absorbent such as silica gel. Therefore, the first adsorbent 112 adsorbs moisture.

[0054] For example, when silica gel is heated to a temperature higher than a predetermined temperature, it releases the adsorbed moisture and becomes able to adsorb moisture again. That is, the adsorption function of the first adsorbent 112 is regenerative or reactivatable. The predetermined temperature is, for example, a temperature of about 80°C or lower. Note that the adsorption function of silica gel does not necessarily need to be completely regenerated at temperatures below 80°C.

[0055] The first filter 113 is, for example, a membrane filter. The first filter 113 is attached to an end of the first peripheral wall 116 in the −Z direction and closes the first housing space SC1. That is, the first filter 113 is attached to the first case 111.

[0056] The first communication hole 117 connects the vent 31 to an end of the first storage space SC1 in the +Z direction. That is, the first storage space SC1 communicates with the vent 31 through the first communication hole 117. Furthermore, the end of the first storage space SC1 in the -Z direction communicates with the internal space SI through the first filter 113. Therefore, moisture in the gas moving between the internal space SI and the outside through the vent 31 is adsorbed by the first adsorbent 112 in the first storage space SC1.

[0057] The second filter unit 102 has a second case 121, a second adsorbent 122, and a second filter 123. In this embodiment, the second filter unit 102 has a single second adsorbent 122 and a single second filter 123. Note that the second filter unit 102 is not limited to this example.

[0058] Second case 121 is made of, for example, a synthetic resin or metal with low helium permeability. Second case 121 has second base 125 and second peripheral wall 126. Second peripheral wall 126 is an example of a second wall.

[0059] The second base 125 is formed in a plate shape and arranged along the inner surface 22a of the inner cover 22. The second base 125 is attached to the inner surface 22a with, for example, double-sided tape or adhesive. That is, the second case 121 is attached to the inner cover 22 in the internal space SI. In this embodiment, the first base 115 of the first case 111 and the second base 125 of the second case 121 are integrally formed.

[0060] The second base 125 is attached to the inner cover 22, covering the vent 32. A second communication hole 127 is provided in the second base 125. The second communication hole 127 communicates with the vent 32.

[0061] The second peripheral wall 126 is a cylindrical wall that protrudes substantially in the -Z direction from the second base 125. A second accommodation space SC2 is provided inside the second peripheral wall 126. That is, the second accommodation space SC2 is provided in the second case 121.

[0062] The second adsorbent 122 is disposed in the second accommodation space SC2. Therefore, the second peripheral wall 126 surrounds the second adsorbent 122. In this embodiment, the second adsorbent 122 is a gas collector such as activated carbon. Therefore, the first adsorbent 112 and the second adsorbent 122 are different in type from each other. The second adsorbent 122 adsorbs various organic substances including gases. Gases adsorbed by activated carbon are an example of the second gas. Furthermore, activated carbon, which is the second adsorbent 122, can also adsorb moisture.

[0063] In this embodiment, the rate of adsorption of the first adsorbent 112 is greater than the rate of adsorption of the second adsorbent 122. The adsorption rate is the mass of a substance that a unit mass of adsorbent adsorbs per unit time. Note that the adsorption rates of the first adsorbent 112 and the second adsorbent 122 are not limited to this example.

[0064] The second filter 123 is, for example, a membrane filter. The second filter 123 is attached to an end of the second peripheral wall 126 in the −Z direction and closes the second accommodation space SC2. That is, the second filter 123 is attached to the second case 121.

[0065] The second communication hole 127 communicates the vent 32 with the end of the second storage space SC2 in the +Z direction. That is, the second storage space SC2 communicates with the vent 32 through the second communication hole 127. Furthermore, the end of the second storage space SC2 in the -Z direction communicates with the internal space SI through the second filter 123. Therefore, various organic substances are adsorbed by the second adsorbent 122 in the second storage space SC2 in the gas that moves between the internal space SI and the outside through the vent 32.

[0066] The first filter unit 101 and the second filter unit 102 are arranged side by side in approximately the Y direction. The second peripheral wall 126 is spaced apart from the first peripheral wall 116 in approximately the -Y direction via a gap G. Therefore, the second accommodation space SC2 is spaced apart from the first accommodation space SC1.

[0067] The first storage space SC1 and the second storage space SC2 are not directly connected to each other. Specifically, the first storage space SC1 is connected to each other via the first filter 113, the internal space SI, and the second filter 123. However, the first storage space SC1 and the second storage space SC2 are separated from each other by the first peripheral wall 116, the gap G, and the second peripheral wall 126.

[0068] The first accommodation space SC1 and the second accommodation space SC2 are independent of each other and individually communicate with the internal space SI. Therefore, for example, gas supplied to the ventilation port 31 flows into the internal space SI through the first accommodation space SC1 without passing through the second accommodation space SC2. On the other hand, gas supplied to the ventilation port 32 flows into the internal space SI through the second accommodation space SC2 without passing through the first accommodation space SC1.

[0069] The upright portion 82 of the support plate 58 and a portion of the FPC 57 supported by the upright portion 82 are located in the gap G. Therefore, the portion of the FPC 57 is located between the first peripheral wall 116 and the second peripheral wall 126. In addition, the first peripheral wall 116 is located between the magnetic disk 12 and the FPC 57.

[0070] Below, some examples of a method for manufacturing the HDD 10 in the first embodiment are described. Note that the method for manufacturing the HDD 10 is not limited to the following method, and other methods may be used. First, a plurality of magnetic disks 12, a spindle motor 13, an HSA 14, a VCM 15, and a ramp load mechanism 16 are housed in an internal space SI. The magnetic disks 12, the spindle motor 13, the HSA 14, the VCM 15, and the ramp load mechanism 16 are assembled so as to be operable as the HDD 10.

[0071] 3 is an exemplary cross-sectional view partially illustrating the inner cover 22 and the breathing filter 18 attached to the base 21 of the first embodiment. First, the inner cover 22 is attached to the base 21 with screws 28, for example.

[0072] Next, the seal 35 or 36 is peeled off from the inner cover 22. In the example of Fig. 3, the seal 36 is peeled off from the inner cover 22. As a result, the internal space SI is in communication with the outside through the second filter 123, the second accommodation space SC2, the second communication hole 127, and the ventilation hole 32. Note that the seal 35 may be attached to the inner cover 22 without the seals 35 and 36 being attached.

[0073] Next, air is evacuated from the internal space SI through the second filter 123, the second accommodation space SC2, the second communication hole 127, and the ventilation hole 32. Furthermore, helium is filled into the internal space SI through the ventilation hole 32, the second communication hole 127, the second accommodation space SC2, and the second filter 123. Note that by filling the internal space SI with helium, air may be discharged from the internal space SI.

[0074] Next, the seal 36 is attached to the inner cover 22. As a result, the vent hole 32 is sealed by the seal 36. The vent hole 32 is airtightly sealed by the seal 36. Furthermore, the gap between the base 21 and the inner cover 22 is airtightly sealed by the gasket 29. This at least temporarily prevents helium from leaking from the internal space SI.

[0075] Next, the outer cover 23 is joined to the side wall 26 of the base 21 by, for example, welding. As a result, the outer cover 23, which covers the inner cover 22, is fixed to the base 21. Before the outer cover 23 is attached to the base 21, the operation of the HDD 10 and the leakage of helium may be inspected.

[0076] By joining the outer cover 23 to the base 21, a space SB is formed between the inner cover 22 and the outer cover 23. A small amount of air or shielding gas used in welding may be present in the space SB. The seals 35, 36 and the gasket 29 prevent the air or shielding gas in the space SB from flowing into the internal space SI. This completes the manufacture of the HDD 10.

[0077] When the magnetic disk 12 and the HSA 14 rotate in the internal space SI, an airflow is generated. As shown in FIG. 1, the first peripheral wall 116 is located between the magnetic disk 12 and the FPC 57, and is therefore exposed to the generated airflow. In other words, the helium in the internal space SI flows relatively fast around the first filter unit 101. This makes it easy for the airflow to pass through the first filter 113 and move between the internal space SI and the first storage space SC1.

[0078] The airflow circulates between the internal space SI and the first accommodation space SC1. The helium passes through the first adsorbent 112 disposed in the first accommodation space SC1 relatively quickly. The first adsorbent 112 has a relatively fast adsorption speed, and therefore can efficiently adsorb moisture from the passing helium.

[0079] On the other hand, the standing portion 82 of the support plate 58 and the part of the FPC 57 supported by the standing portion 82 are located between the magnetic disk 12 and the second peripheral wall 126. Therefore, the standing portion 82 and the FPC 57 block the airflow, and helium tends to accumulate around the second filter unit 102.

[0080] Helium passes through the second adsorbent 122 disposed in the second accommodation space SC2 relatively slowly. However, the adsorption rate of the second adsorbent 122 is relatively slow. Therefore, even if the rate at which helium passes through the second adsorbent 122 is slow, the efficiency of the adsorption action of the second adsorbent 122 is unlikely to decrease. In other words, the first adsorbent 112 and the second adsorbent 122 can efficiently adsorb moisture and organic matter overall.

[0081] In the HDD 10 according to the first embodiment described above, the housing 11 includes a base 21 and an inner cover 22. The base 21 is provided with an internal space SI in which the magnetic disk 12 is accommodated. The internal cover 22 is provided with an air vent 31 and is attached to the base 21 so as to close the internal space SI. The first filter unit 101 includes a first case 111, a first adsorbent 112, and a first filter 113. The first case 111 is provided with a first storage space SC1. The first adsorbent 112 is disposed in the first storage space SC1. The first filter 113 is attached to the first case 111. The first case 111 is attached to the inner cover 22 in the internal space SI. The first storage space SC1 communicates with the air vent 31 and also communicates with the internal space SI via the first filter 113. The second filter unit 102 has a second case 121, a second adsorbent 122, and a second filter 123. A second storage space SC2 is provided in the second case 121. The second adsorbent 122 is disposed in the second storage space SC2. The second filter 123 is attached to the second case 121. The second case 121 is attached to the inner cover 22 in the internal space SI. The second storage space SC2 is separated from the first storage space SC1 and communicates with the internal space SI via the second filter 123.

[0082] The first storage space SC1 communicates with the second storage space SC2 through the first filter 113, the internal space SI, and the second filter 123. In other words, the first storage space SC1 and the second storage space SC2 are separated and independent from each other, and each communicates with the internal space SI. Therefore, the HDD 10 of this embodiment can prevent the first adsorbent 112 and the second adsorbent 122 from contacting and affecting each other. For example, the HDD 10 can prevent substances adsorbed by the first adsorbent 112 from degrading the performance of the second adsorbent 122.

[0083] For example, in this embodiment, the first adsorbent 112 is silica gel, and the second adsorbent 122 is activated carbon. If activated carbon is placed near the silica gel, the adsorption efficiency will decrease due to moisture adsorbed by the silica gel. Furthermore, there is a risk that the moisture will clog the adsorption sites of the activated carbon. However, in this embodiment, the first storage space SC1 containing the first adsorbent 112 and the storage space SC2 containing the second adsorbent 122 are separated from each other, so that the moisture adsorbed by the silica gel is less likely to affect the adsorption action of the activated carbon.

[0084] The first adsorbent 112 and the second adsorbent 122 are different types from each other. Therefore, the HDD 10 of this embodiment can prevent the first adsorbent 112 and the second adsorbent 122, which are different types, from affecting each other.

[0085] The internal space SI is filled with a gas other than air. For example, the internal space SI is filled with helium. The first adsorbent 112 and the second adsorbent 122 can remove moisture and other gases from the helium. This can prevent the HDD 10 from crashing the magnetic head 71 due to, for example, moisture or contaminant gases.

[0086] The housing 11 further has an outer cover 23 that covers the inner cover 22 and is attached to the base 21. The outer cover 23 airtightly seals the space SB between the outer cover 23 and the inner cover 22. This makes it possible for the HDD 10 of this embodiment to prevent the first adsorbent 112 from being exposed to the outside air through the ventilation hole 31.

[0087] The seal 35 is attached to the inner cover 22 outside the internal space SI and airtightly closes the ventilation opening 31. This makes it possible for the HDD 10 of this embodiment to prevent the first adsorbent 112 from being exposed to the outside air through the ventilation opening 31.

[0088] The first case 111 and the second case 121 are integrally formed. This allows the first filter unit 101 and the second filter unit 102 to be attached to the inner cover 22 in a single step, which in turn makes it easier to assemble the HDD 10.

[0089] The FPC 57 is located in the internal space SI. The first case 111 has a first peripheral wall 116 that surrounds the first adsorbent 112. The second case 121 has a second peripheral wall 126 that surrounds the second adsorbent 122 and is spaced from the first peripheral wall 116 by a gap G. The FPC 57 is located in the gap G. This allows the HDD 10 of this embodiment to improve the flexibility in arranging the first filter unit 101, the second filter unit 102, and the FPC 57 in the internal space SI, and enables efficient use of the internal space SI.

[0090] The first peripheral wall 116 is located between the magnetic disk 12 and the FPC 57. The FPC 57 is located between the first peripheral wall 116 and the second peripheral wall 126. The adsorption rate of the first adsorbent 112 is higher than that of the second adsorbent 122. The first peripheral wall 116 is more exposed to the airflow generated by the rotating magnetic disk 12 than the second peripheral wall 126. The first adsorbent 112 adsorbs substances in the airflow. Because the adsorption rate of the first adsorbent 112 is high, the first adsorbent 112 can efficiently adsorb substances from the airflow. On the other hand, the FPC 57 generally obstructs the airflow. Therefore, the gas flow rate around the second adsorbent 122 is relatively slow. Although the second adsorbent 122 has a low adsorption rate, it can adequately adsorb substances from a slow-flowing airflow. Therefore, the first adsorbent 112 and the second adsorbent 122 can adsorb substances efficiently overall.

[0091] The first adsorbent 112 adsorbs moisture. The second adsorbent 122 adsorbs organic matter, including gas. For example, a gas such as helium may be filled into the internal space SI through the vent 31. In this case, the first adsorbent 112 can adsorb moisture from the gas. Furthermore, when the first adsorbent 112 is dried, the moisture can be discharged from the first adsorbent 112 to the outside through the vent 31.

[0092] The inner cover 22 is provided with a vent hole 32 that communicates with the second storage space SC2. This allows the HDD 10 to selectively open the vent hole 31 and the vent hole 32 to the outside depending on the process. For example, the vent hole 31 is opened in a process of drying the internal space SI. Moisture can be discharged from the first adsorbent 112 to the outside through the vent hole 31. On the other hand, when a gas such as helium is filled into the internal space SI, the vent hole 32 is opened. The second adsorbent 122 adsorbs gases such as contaminant gases from helium, thereby preventing the contaminant gases from flowing into the internal space SI.

[0093] The seal 36 is attached to the inner cover 22 outside the internal space SI and airtightly closes the ventilation opening 32. This makes it possible for the HDD 10 of this embodiment to prevent the second adsorbent 122 from being exposed to the outside air through the ventilation opening 32.

[0094] (Variation) In the first embodiment, the first adsorbent 112 is silica gel as a moisture absorbent, and the second adsorbent 122 is activated carbon as a gas collector. However, the first adsorbent 112 and the second adsorbent 122 are not limited to this example.

[0095] Examples of moisture absorbents that adsorb moisture include silica gel, activated carbon, quicklime (CaO), and molecular sieves. Examples of gas collectors that adsorb gas include oxygen absorbers, activated carbon, and zeolites. However, the moisture absorbents and gas collectors are not limited to these examples.

[0096] Zeolite undergoes dealumination due to moisture. For example, when the first adsorbent 112 is silica gel and the second adsorbent 122 is zeolite, the silica gel and the zeolite are separated from each other. Therefore, the HDD 10 can prevent moisture adsorbed by the silica gel from causing dealumination in the zeolite.

[0097] (Second embodiment) The second embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 4 and 5. In the following description of the embodiments, components having the same functions as components already described are given the same reference numerals as the components already described, and further description may be omitted. Furthermore, components given the same reference numerals do not necessarily have all the same functions and properties, and may have different functions and properties according to each embodiment.

[0098] 4 is an exemplary cross-sectional view showing a portion of an HDD 10 according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, in the second embodiment, the inner cover 22 does not have the vent hole 32, and the second base 125 does not have the second communication hole 127. That is, the vent hole 32 and the second communication hole 127 are provided as needed. Note that the vent hole 31 and the first communication hole 117 may not be provided, and the vent hole 32 and the second communication hole 127 may be provided instead.

[0099] The second storage space SC2 communicates with the internal space SI through the second filter 123, but does not communicate with the space SB or the outside of the housing 11. In other words, the second case 121 does not allow the second storage space SC2 to communicate with the outside of the internal space SI. Of the ventilation opening 31 communicating with the first storage space SC1 and the ventilation opening 32 communicating with the second storage space SC2, only the ventilation opening 31 is provided in the inner cover 22.

[0100] In the second embodiment, the first adsorbent 112 is activated carbon, and the second adsorbent 122 is molecular sieve. Note that specific examples of the first adsorbent 112 and the second adsorbent 122 are not limited to these. The adsorption action of the first adsorbent 112 is regenerative. On the other hand, the adsorption action of the second adsorbent 122 is non-regenerable at temperatures below 80°C.

[0101] The adsorption action of the molecular sieve can be restored by heating it to 300°C or higher. However, the heat resistance temperature of at least one of the various components, such as the magnetic disk 12, spindle motor 13, HSA 14, VCM 15, ramp load mechanism 16, and PCB 17, is below 300°C. Therefore, after the HDD 10 is assembled, it is difficult to restore the adsorption action of the second adsorbent 122 while maintaining the performance of the HDD 10.

[0102] The following describes an example of a part of a method for manufacturing the HDD 10 in the second embodiment. Note that the method for manufacturing the HDD 10 is not limited to the following method, and other methods may also be used. First, a plurality of magnetic disks 12, a spindle motor 13, an HSA 14, a VCM 15, and a ramp load mechanism 16 are housed in the internal space SI.

[0103] 5 is an exemplary cross-sectional view partially illustrating the inner cover 22 and the breathing filter 18 before they are attached to the base 21 of the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, before the inner cover 22 is attached to the base 21, a seal 201 that covers the second filter 123 is attached to the second filter unit 102 in advance.

[0104] The seal 201 is, for example, an aluminum seal. The seal 201 covers the second filter 123 and airtightly closes the second accommodation space SC2. Therefore, the second case 121 and the seal 201 isolate the second accommodation space SC2 from the outside, and prevent the non-regenerable second adsorbent 122 from being exposed to the outside air.

[0105] Next, the seal 201 is peeled off from the second filter unit 102, and the inner cover 22 is attached to the base 21. That is, the seal 201 is peeled off from the second filter unit 102 immediately before the inner cover 22 is attached to the base 21. Note that the means for protecting the non-recyclable second adsorbent 122 until immediately before the inner cover 22 is attached to the base 21 may be, for example, the means described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-180054.

[0106] Next, the seal 35 is peeled off from the inner cover 22, and the air in the internal space SI is evacuated. Furthermore, the internal space SI is filled with helium, and the seal 35 is attached to the inner cover 22. This seals the ventilation hole 31. Next, the outer cover 23 is attached to the base 21. This completes the manufacture of the HDD 10.

[0107] During the manufacture of the HDD 10 or during inspection or repair of the HDD 10, the first adsorbent 112 may be dried. In this case, the seal 35 is peeled off from the inner cover 22 with the outer cover 23 not attached to the base 21. The HDD 10 is then heated to approximately 80°C or less. The temperature of the HDD 10 is set to be lower than the lowest heat-resistant temperature of various components such as the magnetic disk 12, spindle motor 13, HSA 14, VCM 15, ramp load mechanism 16, and PCB 17.

[0108] When the activated carbon serving as the first adsorbent 112 is heated, it releases the adsorbed moisture. The moisture is discharged from the first adsorbent 112 to the outside through the vent 31. When the first adsorbent 112 is sufficiently dry, the seal 35 is attached to the inner cover 22. Furthermore, since there is no vent 32, the non-regenerative second adsorbent 122 is unlikely to be exposed to the outside air even while the first adsorbent 112 is drying.

[0109] In the HDD 10 of the second embodiment described above, the adsorption action of the first adsorbent 112 is regenerative. The adsorption action of the second adsorbent 122 is non-regenerative. The regenerative first adsorbent 112 can be released to the outside through the vent 31. Therefore, when the first adsorbent 112 is dried, moisture can be discharged from the first adsorbent 112 to the outside through the vent 31. On the other hand, the non-regenerative second adsorbent 122 is not released to the outside, and therefore breakthrough (saturation) can be suppressed.

[0110] Furthermore, before the HDD 10 is assembled, the second filter 123 can be sealed with, for example, an aluminum seal such as the seal 201. In the HDD 10 of this embodiment, the seal 201 can be peeled off from the second filter 123 at a desired time, thereby adjusting the time when the second adsorbent 122 is exposed to the outside air. Therefore, the HDD 10 can prevent the second adsorbent 122 from breaking through (saturating).

[0111] The second case 121 does not allow the second accommodation space SC2 to communicate with the outside of the internal space SI, thereby preventing the second adsorbent 122 from being exposed to the outside air, and thus preventing the second adsorbent 122 from breaking through (saturating).

[0112] (Third embodiment) The third embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is an exemplary cross-sectional view showing a portion of an HDD 10 according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the first case 111 has a first base 301 instead of the first base 115. Furthermore, the second case 121 has a second base 302 instead of the second base 125. The first base 301 and the second base 302 are substantially identical to the first base 115 and the second base 125, except as described below.

[0113] The first base 301 and the second base 302 are spaced apart from each other. That is, the first case 111 and the second case 121 are spaced apart from each other. Therefore, the first case 111 and the second case 121 are attached to the inner cover 22 separately.

[0114] In the HDD 10 of the third embodiment described above, the first case 111 and the second case 121 are spaced apart from each other. This allows the HDD 10 of this embodiment to improve the flexibility of the arrangement of the first filter unit 101 and the second filter unit 102 in the internal space SI.

[0115] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 10...hard disk drive (HDD), 11...casing, 12...magnetic disk, 21...base, 22...inner cover, 23...outer cover, 31, 32...vent, 35, 36...seal, 57...flexible printed circuit board (FPC), 101...first filter unit, 102...second filter unit, 111...first case, 112...first adsorbent, 113...first filter, 116...first peripheral wall, 117...first communicating hole, 121...second case, 122...second adsorbent, 123...second filter, 126...second peripheral wall, 127...second communicating hole, SI...internal space, SB...space, SC1...first storage space, SC2...second storage space, G...gap.

Claims

1. A magnetic disk; a housing including a base having an internal space, a first cover having a first through hole and attached to the base so as to close the internal space, the magnetic disk being accommodated in the internal space; a first filter unit including a first case having a first storage space, a first adsorbent disposed in the first storage space, and a first filter attached to the first case, the first case being attached to the first cover in the internal space, the first storage space communicating with the first through hole and communicating with the internal space through the first filter; a second filter unit including a second case having a second storage space, a second adsorbent disposed in the second storage space, and a second filter attached to the second case, the second case being attached to the first cover in the internal space, the second storage space being spaced apart from the first storage space and communicating with the internal space through the second filter; A disk device comprising:

2. The first adsorbent and the second adsorbent are different in type from each other.

2. The disk device according to claim 1.

3. The internal space is filled with a first gas other than air.

2. The disk device according to claim 1.

4. the housing further includes a second cover attached to the base and covering the first cover; The second cover air-tightly seals a space between the second cover and the first cover.

4. The disk device according to claim 3.

5. a first seal attached to the first cover outside the internal space and air-tightly sealing the first through hole; 5. The disk device according to claim 3 or 4, further comprising:

6. a first communication hole that communicates the first through hole and the first accommodation space is provided in the first cover; The first filter comprises a first membrane filter.

2. The disk device according to claim 1.

7. The first case and the second case are integrally formed.

2. The disk device according to claim 1.

8. The first case and the second case are spaced apart from each other.

2. The disk device according to claim 1.

9. a flexible printed circuit board located in the internal space; Further comprising: the first case has a first wall surrounding the first adsorbent; the second case has a second wall surrounding the second adsorbent and spaced apart from the first wall via a gap; A portion of the flexible printed circuit board is located in the gap.

2. The disk device according to claim 1.

10. the first wall is located between the magnetic disk and the flexible printed circuit board; the flexible printed circuit board is located between the first wall and the second wall; The adsorption rate of the first adsorbent is greater than the adsorption rate of the second adsorbent; 10. The disk device according to claim 9.

11. The first adsorbent adsorbs moisture, The second adsorbent adsorbs a second gas.

2. The disk device according to claim 1.

12. The first cover is provided with a second through hole communicating with the second accommodation space. The disk device according to claim 11.

13. a second seal attached to the first cover outside the interior space and air-tightly sealing the second through hole; 13. The disk drive of claim 12, further comprising:

14. a second communication hole that communicates the second through hole with the second accommodation space is provided in the first cover, The second filter comprises a second membrane filter. The disk device according to claim 12 or 13.

15. the adsorption action of the first adsorbent is regenerative; The adsorption action of the second adsorbent is non-regenerative.

2. The disk device according to claim 1.

16. The second case does not communicate the second accommodation space with the outside of the internal space.

16. The disk device according to claim 15.

Images