RRO Timing Control for Constant Density Servo Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

In constant-density magnetic storage devices, the timing of writing repeatable run-out (RRO) data is challenging due to varying track frequencies and head positions, leading to position errors and inaccuracies in data density across different tracks.

Innovation Solution

A method is implemented to determine the track pattern frequency based on track location and desired data density, with RRO data written at a time delay inversely proportional to the track radius, using servo sync mark detection to locate positions in the servo wedge and adjust the clock source to maintain synchronization, and taking corrective action for timing discrepancies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If constant-frequency writing is used across all tracks, then the writing process is simple, but data density varies across tracks with position errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewriting process simplicityVSAvoiddata density consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static constant-frequency writing approach to a dynamic frequency-adjustment approach. The writing frequency is dynamically modified based on track radius, with inner tracks receiving higher frequencies and outer tracks receiving lower frequencies. This dynamic adaptation ensures constant linear density across all tracks while maintaining a manageable writing process through automated frequency control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If constant-density writing is implemented with frequency adjustment, then data density consistency is improved, but writing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata density consistencyVSAvoidwriting process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements parameter changes by systematically varying the writing frequency parameter as a function of track radius. Specifically, the frequency is adjusted inversely proportional to the track radius to maintain constant linear density. This parameter modification is achieved through automated control mechanisms that calculate and apply the appropriate frequency for each track, balancing precision with operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms to monitor and adjust writing parameters in real-time. By detecting the actual writing density and comparing it with the target constant density, the system automatically modifies the writing frequency to compensate for variations. This closed-loop control reduces the perceived complexity by automating the adjustment process and providing real-time correction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If RRO data is written without timing adjustment, then the writing process is straightforward, but position errors occur due to varying track frequencies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewriting operation simplicityVSAvoidposition accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and pre-setting the appropriate writing frequency and timing parameters for each track before the actual writing operation begins. The system determines the required frequency adjustment based on track radius and prepares the writing mechanism with the correct parameters, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments during writing and maintaining position accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Measurement precision

If timing delay is adjusted inversely proportional to radius to achieve predetermined offset, then position accuracy is improved, but operation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition accuracyVSAvoidoperation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by enabling the writing system to automatically determine and apply the appropriate timing delays for each track based on their radial positions. The system self-adjusts the writing timing by calculating the inverse relationship between delay and radius, eliminating the need for manual intervention or complex external control. This automated self-adjustment maintains position accuracy while simplifying the operational interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11721363B2Write timing for RRO field in a constant density servo system
Publication Date: 2023.08.08 MARVELL ASIA PTE LTD
  • US11721363B2 patent drawing
  • US11721363B2 patent drawing
  • US11721363B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for writing repeatable run-out data, representing a recurring contribution to position error, to a rotating constant-density magnetic storage medium, includes repeating, for each respective track at a respective radius of the constant-density magnetic storage medium, (1) determining a respective track pattern frequency based on track location and desired data density, (2) locating a position in a respective servo wedge on the respective track based on servo sync mark detection, (3) writing the repeatable run-out data to the respective servo wedge at a time delay, from the location of the position in the respective servo wedge, that is inversely proportional to the respective radius, to achieve a predetermined offset, and (4) repeating the determining, the locating and the writing for each servo wedge on the respective track of the constant-density magnetic storage medium.