Single Pulse Degaussing Device with Rotary Chamber Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing degaussing technologies fail to effectively erase information from newer hard drive components with high coercivity magnetic media, as they are not readily accessible due to sealing and generate residual magnetic noise, and there is a lack of a single magnetic pulse degaussing apparatus that can fit into a 19-inch rack frame with internal flux monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A single magnetic pulse degaussing apparatus with a chamber accessible by rotary actuated doors, utilizing a coil with a known current to flux relationship, where internal flux is monitored during the discharge cycle using a microcontroller and performance verification algorithm to ensure sufficient flux and time for media destruction, and the device is designed to fit into a 19-inch rack mount frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional degaussing devices are used, then they can erase information from traditional magnetic media, but they fail to effectively erase information from newer hard drive components with high coercivity magnetic media that are sealed in enclosures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the key parameter of magnetic field strength by using a capacitor discharge circuit that generates a high-current pulse capable of producing magnetic fields exceeding 3000 Oersteds. This parameter change enables effective degaussing of high coercivity magnetic media that conventional permanent magnet devices cannot penetrate, while the rotary actuated door system provides adaptability for sealed drive enclosures.
2Reliability
If a capacitive discharge system is used to reach difficult hard disc drives, then it can address extraneous magnetic noise pulses, but it lacks internal flux monitoring to verify sufficient degaussing time and effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism by monitoring the current through the coil during capacitor discharge and using this data to calculate the flux versus time profile. The microcontroller compares this profile against predetermined thresholds to verify that sufficient magnetic flux has been applied for adequate degaussing time, providing automated verification of data destruction effectiveness without requiring complex external monitoring equipment.
3Reliability
If a degaussing apparatus with flux monitoring is designed, then it can verify sufficient flux application time, but it becomes difficult to fit into a compact 19-inch rack frame configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into compact integrated components: the capacitor discharge circuit is combined with the coil assembly, the current sensing is integrated into the discharge path, and the microcontroller is embedded within the chamber assembly. This consolidation of monitoring and actuation functions into a single integrated unit enables flux verification capability while maintaining a compact footprint suitable for 19-inch rack mounting.
4Reliability
If rotary actuated doors are used for chamber access, then they provide secure sealing for the magnetic chamber, but they add mechanical complexity to the device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a rotary actuated door mechanism as an intermediary between the external environment and the magnetically shielded chamber. The door assembly includes a rotary motor that drives a sealed rotary joint, allowing controlled access while maintaining magnetic shielding integrity. This intermediary mechanism provides secure sealing and controlled access without requiring complex gasket systems or magnetic couplings.
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 apparatus provides a nearly silent and effective method to render information on magnetic memory inaccessible with a single magnetic pulse, ensuring complete data destruction by monitoring and verifying the flux versus time profile, and is designed for easy integration into data center racks with enhanced security features.
Implementation Method 1
The chamber utilizes a coil with a known (measured) current to flux relationship. The internal flux can be measured indirectly by measuring the current passing through the coil during the discharge cycle.
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic chamber sealed by rotary actuated plates
Data Source
AI summary
A single magnetic pulse degaussing apparatus for use in erasing information contained on magnetic recording or storage media. A degaussing chamber for receipt of magnetic forces above 2.0 Tesla is accessible by upper and lower rotary actuated doors. The internal flux of a coil is measured by the current passing through the coil during the discharge cycle to provide a flux versus time measurements. The measurements are inserted into a performance verification algorithm to assure sufficient time for media destruction has taken place before releasing the media from the degaussing chamber.