Piezoelectric Head Suspension Integral Electrode Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing head suspension designs for disk drives are complex, leading to complicated manufacturing processes and reduced assembling accuracy due to the large number of parts required to support piezoelectric elements.
Innovation Solution
A simplified head suspension design featuring a base, load beam, and a piezoelectric element that deforms in response to applied power, with a support member having a base end, front end, and support links to connect these, reducing the number of parts and improving assembly precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate parts are used to support the piezoelectric element, then the structural support function is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate support parts into a single integrated support structure. The support includes an integral base end support, front end support, and pair of support links that are all formed as one piece, eliminating the need for multiple separate components while maintaining the required structural support function for the piezoelectric element.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated support structure performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the piezoelectric element, maintains electrical insulation through the base end support, and enables precise positioning through the support links. This multi-functional design reduces the number of parts while achieving all necessary support objectives.
2Reliability
If multiple separate parts are used to support the piezoelectric element, then the support function is complete, but the manufacturing process becomes complicated and assembling accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple support components into a single integrated support structure, the patent eliminates multiple assembly steps and interfaces. This integration ensures precise geometric relationships between support elements are maintained inherently in the manufacturing process, significantly improving assembling accuracy while completing the support function.
3Device complexity
If a simplified support structure is used, then the number of parts is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but the support capability and precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated support structure is segmented into functional zones: the base end support provides electrical insulation and anchoring, the support links provide mechanical positioning, and the front end support completes the structural framework. This segmentation of functions within a single integrated component maintains full support capability while reducing part count.
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 design simplifies manufacturing processes and enhances assembling accuracy by reducing the number of parts while maintaining precise movement of the load beam, preventing interference and ensuring electric insulation.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric element that is arranged between the base and the load beam and deforms in response to applied power to precisely move a front end of the load beam relative to the base
Data Source
AI summary
A head suspension has a base plate, a load beam, and a piezoelectric element that is centrally located and deforms in response to applied power to precisely move a front end of the load beam. The head suspension includes an opening formed in the base plate to receive the piezoelectric element and a support member joined with the base plate, partly protruding into the opening, and configured to support an electrode of the piezoelectric element. The support member includes a pair of integral supports to support the electrode, and a pair of integral support links to connect the supports to each other outside the piezoelectric element.