Magnetic Write Head Upper Return Pole Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manufacturing processes for perpendicular magnetic recording write heads often result in trailing shield protrusion due to mechanically abrasive cleaning methods, which can decrease writer performance and lead to head disk contact.
Innovation Solution
A write head design featuring an upper return pole with increased throat height and narrow width to resist deformation and recession during abrasive cleaning operations, and a two-piece structure with a strong alumina fill layer for enhanced support and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If mechanically abrasive cleaning methods are used during manufacturing, then the slider surface is cleaned effectively, but trailing shield protrusion occurs due to deformation and recession
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by designing the upper return pole with increased throat height and narrow width specifically to counteract the deformation and recession caused by abrasive cleaning processes. This pre-engineered structural reinforcement prevents the trailing shield protrusion problem before it occurs during manufacturing, allowing effective cleaning without compromising positional accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by incorporating a strong alumina fill layer and optimized upper return pole geometry before the abrasive cleaning process occurs. These structural elements are prepared in advance to withstand the cleaning forces, ensuring that the trailing shield maintains its precise position even after exposure to mechanically abrasive cleaning methods.
2Strength
If the upper return pole has increased throat height and narrow width, then resistance to deformation during cleaning is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by modifying specific geometric parameters of the upper return pole (increased throat height and narrow width) rather than redesigning the entire structure. This localized optimization provides enhanced resistance to deformation during cleaning while minimizing the overall structural complexity. The alumina fill layer is also strategically placed in specific regions where reinforcement is most needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by incorporating a strong alumina fill layer within the upper return pole structure. This composite construction combines the magnetic properties of the return pole material with the mechanical strength of alumina, achieving high resistance to deformation without requiring a completely complex redesigned structure. The composite approach allows the pole to withstand abrasive cleaning forces effectively.
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 design effectively prevents trailing shield and write pole protrusion, maintaining performance and preventing head disk contact by withstanding abrasive cleaning processes and reducing seam or void formation in protective layers.
Implementation Method 1
mechanically abrasive cleaning methods
Implementation Method 2
Current conducted to the coil layer induces a magnetic flux in the pole pieces which causes a magnetic field to fringe out at a write gap
Implementation Method 3
giant magnetoresistive (GMR) sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic write head for perpendicular magnetic recording that is resistant to write pole and trailing shield protrusion. The write pole includes a magnetic return pole that is magnetically connected with the trailing shield, the return pole being resistant to deformation or recession such as from mechanically abrasive slider cleaning operations such as soda blast.