Multi-Actuator Interconnector Single Aperture Hermetic Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual-actuator systems in hard drives often require two communication ports, increasing the risk of leaks and other issues, especially when the drive enclosure is filled with inert gases like helium.
Innovation Solution
A storage device with a hermetically-sealed body featuring a single electrical connection assembly that communicates signals for both actuators and control circuitry through a single aperture, using flexible conductive ribbons and electrical connectors to form independent dynamic loops, reducing the risk of leaks and interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two separate electrical connection assemblies are used for dual actuators, then each actuator can be independently connected, but the risk of leaks increases and hermetic sealing is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate electrical connection assemblies into a single integrated electrical connection assembly that serves both actuators. This single assembly includes a first electrical connector for the first actuator and a second electrical connector for the second actuator, both communicating through one hermetic seal aperture. This merging maintains hermetic sealing integrity while reducing the number of potential leak paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The single electrical connection assembly performs multiple functions by providing independent electrical connections to both the first actuator and the second actuator through a unified structure. The assembly includes separate connectors and flexible circuits for each actuator, allowing independent operation while passing through a single hermetic seal.
2Ease of operation
If two separate apertures are used for dual actuators, then communication is simplified, but the hermetic sealing is compromised and leak risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two separate apertures into a single aperture that accommodates both electrical connectors. The first electrical connector and second electrical connector both pass through this single aperture in the hermetically-sealed enclosure, maintaining seal integrity while enabling independent communication with both actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connection assembly is nested within the hermetically-sealed enclosure through a single aperture. The first electrical connector and second electrical connector are arranged within this single opening, with flexible circuits routed independently while maintaining the hermetic seal around the entire assembly.
3Reliability
If a single electrical connection assembly is used for both actuators, then hermetic sealing is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single electrical connection assembly is segmented into distinct first and second electrical connectors, each with its own flexible circuit and support structure. This segmentation allows independent connection to each actuator while maintaining the unified hermetic seal. The flexible circuits are routed separately through the single aperture without interfering with each other.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connection assembly acts as an intermediary between the hermetically-sealed enclosure and external control systems. It provides a unified interface that maintains the hermetic seal while enabling independent electrical communication with both actuators through the single aperture.
4Loss of information
If two separate connection paths are used, then signal communication is straightforward, but the risk of interference and leaks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate connection paths into a single integrated electrical connection assembly that provides independent signal paths for both actuators. This unified structure reduces the number of penetration points in the hermetic seal, eliminating leak risks associated with multiple apertures while maintaining independent signal communication.
Data Source
AI summary
According to some embodiments, a storage device includes a first actuator and a second actuator rotatable around a common axis. The storage device further includes a first electrical connector configured to communicate electrical signals to and from the first actuator, and a second electrical connector configured to communicate electrical signals to and from the second actuator and to communicate electrical signals to and from the first electrical connector. The storage device includes a hermetically-sealed body, the hermetically-sealed body including a base deck and a top cover, wherein the second electrical connector is configured to send and receive electrical signals to and from the first actuator and the second actuator through a single aperture in the hermetically-sealed body.