Multi-Stack HDD Load Ramp Segmentation for Tight Space Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The design of a multiple disk-stack, shared actuator hard disk drive faces challenges in assembling a load/unload ramp due to the limited space between disk stacks, which complicates the installation process.
Innovation Solution
A load/unload ramp configuration comprising a two-piece or one-piece ramp with integrated tooling features that allows for loading and unloading of the head stack assembly from multiple directions, utilizing a swivel mechanism and self-aligning features to facilitate installation within the constrained space, and a method for installing these ramps that includes positioning and locking the ramp parts onto the HDD base.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a traditional single-piece ramp design is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot be properly installed due to limited space between disk stacks
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp is divided into multiple segments (first ramp part and second ramp part) that can be installed separately between the disk stacks. Each segment has reduced dimensions allowing passage through the limited space, and they connect via locking pins to form the complete ramp structure, resolving the installation space constraint while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp segments are designed to nest within the limited space between disk stacks during installation. The first ramp part is positioned initially, followed by the second ramp part that nests against it, allowing the complete ramp assembly to fit within the constrained dimensional envelope of the multi-disk-stack HDD.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple disk stacks share a common actuator, then storage capacity increases, but the space for ramp installation becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp is segmented into multiple parts that can be assembled in a staged process. The first ramp part is installed initially providing a platform, then the second ramp part is added to complete the structure. This segmentation allows proper ramp formation in the reduced space created by multiple disk stacks sharing a common actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp assembly process utilizes the Z-dimension (vertical stacking direction) by positioning ramp parts at different heights and depths within the available space. The first ramp part sits at one vertical level while the second ramp part extends to another level, effectively using vertical dimensionality to overcome the horizontal space constraints imposed by multiple disk stacks.
3Ease of operation
If ramp parts are installed from a single direction, then the installation process is simple, but it cannot accommodate multi-directional head stack assembly loading and unloading
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp parts are designed with asymmetric features including angled surfaces and positioned locking pins that enable the ramp to receive and guide head stack assemblies from multiple directions. The first and second ramp parts have different geometries optimized for receiving HSAs from opposite sides, allowing versatile operation while maintaining a relatively simple two-piece installation process.
Data Source
AI summary
A load/unload ramp configured for a multiple disk-stack, shared actuator hard disk drive (HDD) includes a ramp part configured for loading and unloading a head stack assembly (HSA) from multiple directions, e.g., from multiple disk stacks, and a tooling part configured to couple with an HSA handling part. The HSA handling part is useful for handling a ramp-HSA assembly during installation, such as for moving the ramp along a guide channel of an HDD base, from an initial position to a final position at which a guide channel stop is reached.