HDD Suspension Rigidity via Integrated Support Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

The mechanical components of Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) are susceptible to airflow-induced instability, which affects the stability and positioning of read/write heads, leading to reduced data storage capacity and performance due to vibration and unwanted motion.

Innovation Solution

A suspension with increased rigidity is introduced, featuring a support member integrated within the base layer of the head gimbal assembly to provide mechanical stability and minimize capacitance, thereby reducing the impact of internal airflow during HDD operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If the suspension is made more rigid to reduce airflow-induced vibration, then the stability of read/write heads is improved, but the flexibility and spring-like quality needed for precise positioning is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestability of read/write headsVSAvoidflexibility for positioning

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The suspension structure implements local quality by differentiating the rigidity of different regions: the base layer contains rigid support members (strengthening ribs) for stability, while the hinge layer remains more flexible to enable positioning movements. This localized differentiation allows the suspension to simultaneously achieve both stability against airflow and adaptability for track positioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The suspension employs a composite structure with multiple layers (base layer and hinge layer) having different mechanical properties. The base layer uses rigid materials with support members for structural stability, while the hinge layer uses more compliant materials for flexibility. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by combining materials with opposing characteristics in a functional hierarchy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Strength

If support members are added to increase rigidity, then mechanical strength is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemechanical strength of suspensionVSAvoidcomplexity of suspension structure

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support members are merged with the base layer of the suspension, forming an integrated structure rather than separate components. The base layer and support members are formed as a single unit through co-fabrication processes, reducing assembly steps and overall device complexity while still providing the necessary mechanical strength enhancement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The base layer serves multiple functions: it provides the foundational structure of the suspension, contains the support members for rigidity, and facilitates electrical connections through conductive traces. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining structural strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8363356B2High bandwidth and mechanical strength between a disk drive flexible circuit and a read write head suspension

Publication Date: 2013.01.29 WESTERN DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES INC

AI summary

A base layer for a suspension. The base layer includes a structure. The structure has a slider end portion and a tail portion. The structure includes an opening in the tail portion. The opening provides access to a conductive assembly coupleable there with. The structure also includes a strengthening member integrated within said opening.