Piezoelectric Tape Head Support for Width and Skew Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data storage devices using tape as a recording medium face issues such as tape damage from magnetic head contact, instability in positioning at high speeds, and complex structures due to the use of voice coil motors and piezoelectric elements, which are heavy and difficult to support stably.
Innovation Solution
A head driving device that utilizes a frame structure with piezoelectric units to move a magnetic head in the width and skew directions, supported by beam members with piezoelectric elements to stabilize the head member, reducing complexity and improving support stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a voice coil motor is used to move the magnetic head in the width direction of the tape, then the magnetic head can be positioned, but the structure becomes complicated and the magnetic head is heavy making it difficult to support stably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the voice coil motor (electromagnetic system) with a piezoelectric element-driven beam member system. The piezoelectric elements expand or contract in response to voltage changes, directly moving the head supporting member without requiring a complex motor assembly, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining positioning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the positioning function into two independent piezoelectric-driven systems: one for width direction positioning and another for skew direction positioning. This segmentation allows each system to be simpler and more focused, avoiding the need for a single complex motor to handle both directions
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large magnetic head corresponding to the width of tape is used, then the magnetic head can cover the tape width, but the magnetic head becomes heavy and difficult to support stably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the magnetic head position dynamic rather than static. The head supporting member can be actively positioned and adjusted in real-time using piezoelectric elements, allowing a smaller magnetic head to achieve effective tape coverage through precise positioning rather than relying on physical size
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical solution of using a large physical head to cover tape width with a piezoelectric-driven positioning system that achieves coverage through precise, active positioning of a smaller head
3Reliability
If the tape is not in contact with the magnetic head to prevent damage, then tape damage is prevented, but the structure of the head driving device becomes further complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a beam member as an intermediary mechanism between the magnetic head and the driving force. The piezoelectric elements act on the beam member, which in turn moves the head supporting member, providing precise control over head-tape contact while maintaining a relatively simple structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical contact control mechanisms with a piezoelectric-driven system that can precisely control head position and contact pressure through electrical signals, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining reliable tape damage prevention
4Measurement precision
If piezoelectric elements are mounted on beam members to move the head in the width direction, then positioning is achieved, but the head member cannot move in the skew direction depending on access conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the head supporting member multi-functional by enabling it to move in both width direction (via piezoelectric elements on beam members) and skew direction (via additional piezoelectric elements on end support beams). This universal positioning capability allows the system to adapt to different access conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the positioning function into two independent directional controls: width direction positioning through beam member piezoelectric elements and skew direction positioning through end support beam piezoelectric elements, allowing each to be optimized independently while working together
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
The device effectively moves the head member in the tape track and skew directions, enhancing stability and reducing structural complexity while preventing tape damage, thus improving data access performance.
Implementation Method 1
a first piezoelectric unit arranged on the first beam member and configured to move the head supporting member in the width direction of the tape when being applied with a voltage; a second piezoelectric unit arranged on the second beam member and configured to move the head supporting member in the width direction of the tape when being applied with a voltage
Implementation Method 2
a first skew driving piezoelectric unit arranged on the first end support beam and configured to move the head supporting member in a skew direction when being applied with a voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A head driving device moving a head member relative to tape as a recording medium. The head driving device includes a base member including a first frame portion and a second frame portion, and a head supporting member supporting the head member. A first end support beam is arranged between a first end portion of the head member in a length direction and the base member, and a first skew driving piezoelectric unit including piezoelectric elements for driving the head member is arranged in the first end support beam.