Curved PCB in Disk Drive Shroud for Vibration Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional disk drives face increased PCB footprint and complexity due to growing numbers of disks and communication channels, leading to inefficiencies in space utilization and potential interference from components like capacitors causing false vibration signals.
Innovation Solution
Implementing curved printed circuit boards (PCBs) that follow the arc of a shroud within the disk drive housing, allowing internal mounting of integrated circuits and separating vibration sensors from capacitors to prevent false vibration detection, while enabling efficient use of space through flexible and multi-layered designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the number of disks and communication channels is increased to increase capacity and throughput, then the data storage capacity and access capability are improved, but the PCB footprint and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional planar PCB layout to a three-dimensional curved PCB that follows the arc of the disk shroud. This dimensional change allows the PCB to wrap around the disk assembly, utilizing vertical and radial spaces that would otherwise be unused, thereby significantly increasing component density without expanding the external footprint of the drive.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved PCB is nested within the existing disk drive housing, conforming to the internal geometry of the shroud. This nesting approach allows the PCB to be integrated into the existing structure without requiring additional external space, effectively hiding the expanded circuitry within the原有的 form factor.
2Reliability
If capacitors are mounted on the PCB to provide power regulation, then power supply stability is improved, but false vibration signals are generated that interfere with vibration sensing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the capacitors from the main PCB and relocates them to separate vibration isolation structures positioned away from the vibration sensors. This separation removes the source of harmful vibrations from proximity to the sensors, eliminating the false signal generation while maintaining the power regulation function of the capacitors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the PCB into multiple sections with different vibration isolation characteristics. Areas near vibration sensors use materials and structures optimized for vibration isolation, while other areas can use standard PCB materials. This segmentation allows capacitors to be positioned in regions where their vibrations will not interfere with sensor operation.
3Ease of manufacture
If a rigid PCB is used for structural stability, then manufacturing and assembly are simplified, but space utilization efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible or semi-rigid PCB that can be formed into a curved shape matching the disk shroud geometry. This flexible approach allows the PCB to conform to the three-dimensional space available within the drive, maximizing component placement density while maintaining sufficient structural integrity for assembly and operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A data storage device is disclosed comprising a base casting forming a housing, wherein components within the housing comprise a first disk, a first head, and a first printed circuit board (PCB) being curved to substantially follow an arc of a first part of a shroud that surrounds at least part of the first disk. The first PCB has mounted thereon a first integrated circuit comprising a first microprocessor configured to actuate the first head over the first disk in order to access the first disk.