Multiple Actuator Storage Coupling State Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multiple actuator data storage devices face data protection risks due to coupling events between independent sets of actuators, leading to potential off-track writes and data loss during concurrent operations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing control circuitry that determines the coupling state of one actuator and selectively inhibits write operations based on the coupling status of other actuators, using state identifiers for mechanical and electrical coupling events, thereby preventing off-track writes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple actuators operate concurrently in a data storage device, then productivity and operational efficiency are improved, but coupling events between actuators occur that disrupt servo positioning and create data protection risks
Solution Approach 1:
The system proactively determines the coupling state of actuators before executing write commands. By checking whether another actuator is in a state that could cause coupling (such as servo error recovery, load/unload, or sweep operations) and inhibiting the write command in advance, the system prevents off-track writes before they can occur, thus protecting data while allowing concurrent operations
2Reliability
If write operations are inhibited during coupling events, then data protection is improved, but loss of time occurs due to delayed write commands
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies write inhibition selectively and partially - only when another actuator is in a specific coupling-prone state. Rather than universally inhibiting all write commands during multi-actuator operation, the control circuitry evaluates the actual state of other actuators and applies inhibition only when necessary, thus minimizing time loss while maintaining data protection where needed
Data Source
AI summary
Example systems, data storage devices, and methods to provide data protection during concurrent operations for multiple actuator data storage devices are described. The data storage device includes a plurality of actuators configured to actuate a plurality of heads over different subsets of a plurality of disk surfaces. Responsive to receiving a write command for one of the actuators, the coupling state with at least one other of the actuators is determined and execution of write commands is inhibited if the coupling state indicates a possible coupling event. The inhibit of the write commands in the presence of coupling events may prevent off-track writes and protect data.