Head Disk Interface Sensor Contact Detection Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems fail to accurately detect contact between a read/write head and a storage medium, leading to potential damage and data loss due to improper head placement or surface anomalies.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a contact detection circuitry within the read channel that utilizes a head disk interface sensor to provide a contact signal, processed by a data processing circuit to determine and quantify contact events, allowing for the avoidance of damaged areas on the storage medium.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If contact detection circuitry is added to the read channel, then contact detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The contact detection circuitry is integrated within the existing read channel structure, merging the contact detection function with the data processing function. The same data processing circuit processes both contact signals and read channel data, eliminating the need for separate dedicated contact detection hardware and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The data processing circuit is designed to handle multiple types of signals - both contact detection signals from the head disk interface sensor and normal read channel data from the storage medium. This multi-functional approach allows a single circuit to perform multiple roles, improving contact detection capability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Reliability
If head disk interface sensor is integrated into the read channel, then contact detection reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The head disk interface sensor is physically and functionally integrated with the read channel circuitry, combining what could be separate components into a unified structure. This integration reduces the number of discrete parts that need to be assembled and tested separately, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining reliable contact detection.
3Measurement precision
If contact signals are processed by data processing circuit, then contact quantification accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The data processing circuit continuously processes contact signals without interruption or batch processing delays. The contact detection and quantification occur in real-time as signals are received, maintaining continuous operation of the storage device while providing accurate contact measurement, thus minimizing any time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The data processing circuit is designed to autonomously process contact signals using existing processing resources and algorithms already present in the read channel. The circuit self-manages the contact signal analysis without requiring external intervention or additional processing stages, reducing overall processing time while maintaining accuracy.
Data Source
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Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a
AI summary
Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for determining contact with a storage medium. As an example, a data storage system is disclosed that includes: a head assembly and a data processing circuit. The head includes a head disk interface sensor operable to provide a contact signal indicating contact between the head and a storage medium disposed in relation to the head. The data processing circuit is operable to process the contact signal to yield an indication of a contact between the storage medium and the head.