Magnetic Head Heating Element Positioning for Disk Proximity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic head technologies face challenges in reducing the distance between the magnetic disk and the read/write elements due to misalignment of heating elements, leading to limitations in recording density and reproducing accuracy.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a heating element between the write and read elements, which projects either the read or write element beyond the air-bearing surface when powered, and forming a concave shape on the air-bearing surface when not powered, allowing for precise adjustment of the magnetic head's position relative to the disk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a heating element is provided near the head element to expand and approach the magnetic disk surface, then the distance between the head and disk is reduced, but the ABS portion close to the heating element projects instead of the read/write elements
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is divided into multiple independent heating regions (first heating element near ABS, second heating element near read/write elements). This segmentation allows independent control of thermal expansion at different locations, enabling the read/write elements to project toward the disk while preventing unwanted projection of the ABS portion.
Solution Approach 2:
Different heating elements are applied to different locations of the magnetic head with different heating characteristics. The first heating element creates a concave shape on the ABS, while the second heating element expands the read/write elements. This local differentiation of heating quality enables precise control over which portions of the head approach the disk surface.
2Manufacturing precision
If the heating element position is adjusted to align with read/write elements, then positioning accuracy improves, but the ability to control ABS shape is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic head incorporates multiple heating elements that serve different functions: the first heating element controls the ABS concave shape formation, while the second heating element controls the read/write element expansion. This multi-functionality allows both ABS shape control and read/write element positioning to be optimized simultaneously without compromising either capability.
3Manufacturing precision
If power is applied to the heating element during polishing to depress the portion, then the ABS shape is improved, but the read/write elements cannot approach the disk sufficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The first heating element is activated during the polishing process to create a concave shape on the ABS surface in advance. This preliminary action prepares the ABS geometry for optimal flying characteristics. Subsequently, the second heating element is activated to expand the read/write elements toward the disk, achieving both ABS shape improvement and sufficient element-to-disk proximity.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating elements are operated in a sequential and periodic manner: first heating element operates during polishing to form the concave ABS, then the second heating element operates during normal operation to expand the read/write elements. This periodic activation pattern allows both ABS shape control and read/write element positioning to be optimized at different stages.
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 configuration enables a closer approach to the magnetic disk, enhancing recording density and reproducing accuracy by optimizing the air-bearing surface shape through controlled deformation.
Implementation Method 1
a head element portion is heated during reading and/or writing data to/from a magnetic disk so that the portion is expanded (such that it protrudes toward the magnetic disk)
Implementation Method 2
a heating element disposed between the write element and the read element. When power is applied to the heating element
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a magnetic head includes a write element, a read element, and a heating element disposed between the write element and the read element. When power is applied to the heating element, either the read element or the write element projects beyond a plane of an air-bearing surface (ABS) of the magnetic head, and when power is not applied to the heating element, a portion of the ABS of the magnetic head facing a magnetic disk close to the heating element has a concave shape. In another embodiment, when power is applied to the heating element, at least one of a portion of the read element and a portion of the write element approaches a magnetic disk, and when power is not applied to the heating element, a portion of the ABS of the magnetic head facing a magnetic disk close to the heating element has a concave shape.