Disk Device Actuator Assembly Segmentation for Simplified Bearing Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of split actuator systems in hard disk drives (HDDs) is complicated due to the need for high dimensional accuracy in positioning, which increases the difficulty of assembling and managing multiple actuator assemblies with shared bearing units.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of independent bearing units for each actuator assembly, allowing for separate assembly and adjustment, and a split flexible printed circuit (FPC) unit for each actuator assembly to simplify the assembly process and maintain cleanliness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If two unit bearings share a common hollow shaft and are substantially integrated, then the structure becomes more compact, but the positioning mechanism becomes complicated and assembling work becomes troublesome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the integrated bearing unit into separate first and second unit bearings, each with its own hollow shaft. This segmentation allows each bearing assembly to be positioned and adjusted independently, eliminating the need for complex positioning mechanisms while maintaining compact structure.
2Volume of moving object
If two unit bearings share a common hollow shaft and are substantially integrated, then the structure becomes more compact, but assembling work becomes troublesome
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the bearing units into independent assemblies with separate hollow shafts, each assembly can be manufactured and assembled independently. This reduces the complexity of the overall assembly process and makes manufacturing easier while preserving the compact structure.
3Manufacturing precision
If the gap between actuator blocks needs to be determined with high accuracy, then dimensional accuracy is improved, but the positioning mechanism becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves high dimensional accuracy for the gap between actuator blocks by using separate unit bearings that can be independently positioned. This eliminates the need for complex positioning mechanisms while maintaining the required manufacturing precision.
4Quantity of substance
If a single integrated bearing unit is used for two actuator assemblies, then the number of parts is reduced, but the assembly process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses separate unit bearings for each actuator assembly, which increases the number of parts slightly but dramatically simplifies the assembly process. Each bearing assembly can be assembled and adjusted independently, making the overall manufacturing process easier.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach simplifies the assembly and management of actuator assemblies by eliminating the need for gap adjustment between them, improving workability and reducing complexity in the assembly process.
Implementation Method 1
a voice coil motor which drives the head actuator
Implementation Method 2
a spindle motor which supports the magnetic disks and rotates the magnetic disks
Implementation Method 3
The unit bearing is composed of, for example, a combination of a hollow shaft, a plurality of ball bearings, a spacer, a sleeve, and the like
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a disk device includes a first actuator assembly on a support shaft via a first bearing unit, and a second actuator assembly on the support shaft via a second bearing unit. The first bearing unit includes a first shaft on the support shaft, a first sleeve fixed to the first actuator block, and a bearing between the first shaft and the first sleeve. The second bearing unit includes a second shaft on the support shaft, separated from the first shaft, a second sleeve fixed to the second actuator block, and a bearing between the second shaft and the second sleeve. One axial end of the first shaft faces one axial end of the second shaft.