Optical Signal Transmission in Hard Disk Drive Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hard disk drives face challenges in efficiently transmitting signals between read/write heads and controller electronics, often resulting in electromagnetic interference and noise due to the use of flex circuits and trace gimbal assemblies.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of optical communication using first and second optical transceivers positioned on the actuator arm and off the actuator arm, respectively, to transmit data between the preamp and the controller electronics, thereby reducing the need for wired connections and minimizing electromagnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If flex circuits and trace gimbal assemblies are used to transmit signals between read/write heads and controller electronics, then electrical connections are maintained, but electromagnetic interference and noise are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical electrical connection system (flex circuits and trace gimbal assemblies) with an optical communication system. Optical transceivers convert electrical signals to optical signals for transmission between the read/write head and controller electronics, eliminating the harmful electromagnetic interference generated by wired electrical connections while maintaining reliable signal transmission.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If optical communication is implemented using optical transceivers, then electromagnetic interference is reduced, but alignment and positioning complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical transceivers as intermediary devices that facilitate communication between the read/write head and controller electronics. These transceivers include alignment mechanisms and positioning systems that automatically maintain optimal optical alignment, thereby reducing alignment complexity while enabling electromagnetic interference-free communication.
3Productivity
If optical transceivers are positioned on the actuator arm, then data transmission efficiency is improved, but the actuator arm structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical transceiver components directly onto the actuator arm structure, integrating the data transmission function into the existing mechanical structure. This consolidation improves data transmission efficiency by placing the transceiver in close proximity to the read/write head while minimizing additional structural complexity through careful integration design.
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 solution enhances signal-to-noise ratios, simplifies assembly processes, and reduces electromagnetic interference by using optical communication paths between the optical transceivers, improving overall data transmission efficiency in hard disk drives.
Implementation Method 1
first and second optical transceivers configured for communicating data between the preamp and the controller electronics
Implementation Method 2
The preamp includes a photovoltaic cell to power the preamp using incident light from a light source such as a laser or LED
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are methods and assemblies used to optically communicate signals within a hard disk drive between controller electronics and recording heads. One or more transceivers in a fixed location can be used to communicate with one or more transceivers positioned on a moveable actuator and coupled to the recording heads. The use of linear motion actuators can help preserve line-of-sight optical communication between the transceivers.