Shared Write Path Switching for Parallel Servo Field Writing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-sensor magnetic recording (MSMR) systems face challenges in accurately writing servo patterns to multiple storage surfaces in parallel, leading to performance degradation due to repeatable runout (RRO) and increased manufacturing time, as existing methods require sequential writing of ZAP fields which are time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a shared write path with multiple servo channels that alternate write access during a revolution of the magnetic recording medium surfaces, allowing parallelized writing of position information such as servo fields and RRO/ZAP fields to multiple storage surfaces, using separate clock domains and micro head actuators for precise positioning, and includes a controller for managing write access to prevent corruption and optimize writing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If sequential writing of ZAP fields is used to multiple storage surfaces, then writing accuracy is maintained, but manufacturing time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the writing process by dividing multiple storage surfaces into separate writing zones, with each writer dedicated to a specific zone. This allows simultaneous writing operations on different surfaces without interference, maintaining accuracy while reducing total manufacturing time through parallel processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension solution by using multiple writers positioned at different radial zones of the storage surfaces. This dimensional arrangement enables parallel writing operations across different zones, transforming a sequential time-based process into a parallel space-based process
2Loss of time
If parallel writing to multiple surfaces is attempted, then manufacturing time is reduced, but write path corruption occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the write path into multiple independent channels, with each writer having its own dedicated write path. This segmentation prevents signal corruption by isolating write operations to separate physical paths, allowing reliable parallel writing without interference between channels
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces independent write path channels as intermediaries between the control system and storage surfaces. These separate write paths act as dedicated communication channels that prevent signal corruption and interference, enabling reliable simultaneous writing to multiple surfaces
3Productivity
If multiple writers are used for parallel writing, then writing efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using identical writer designs across multiple positions, each performing the same writing function on different storage surfaces. This standardized approach maintains simplicity while achieving parallel writing efficiency, as each writer is a reusable, multi-functional component
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the writing system into independent, modular writer units that can operate in parallel. Each segment is a self-contained writer with dedicated resources, reducing overall system complexity through modular design while maintaining high writing efficiency through coordinated parallel operation
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus may include a first and second servo channels configured to output first and second position information to first and second writers, respectively, via a shared write path such that the first and second writers write first and second position information to first and second magnetic recording medium surfaces, respectively. In addition, the apparatus may include a controller configured to control the shared write path such that write access is changed between the first servo channel and second servo channel a plurality of times during a revolution of the first magnetic recording medium surface and second magnetic recording medium surface.