Abstract: A coupling device for ensuring a precise alignment between a disk-drive suspension and a static-attitude testing tool along a predetermined axis. The device consists of the combination of a support post or ridge etched in relief precisely along the longitudinal axis of a disk-drive suspension, or a spherical-radius post protruding through an etched relief, and a compressive mechanism in a static-attitude testing tool adapted to provide a compressive force in a direction coincident with the main axis of the support post in the suspension. A conventional tooling hole is provided at a predetermined location on the suspension, typically along its longitudinal axis, to enable alignment between the testing tool and the suspension.

Abstract: A process for modifying the static attitude characteristics of magnetic head suspension assemblies by applying an infrared heat source to relieve stresses in specific regions of interest. Each assembly is tested to measure its static-roll attitude with respect to a datum reference plane; the measurement preferably consists of a deflection angle. If the deflection angle is outside the limits of a predetermined allowable tolerance, thereby indicating a region that requires subjection to a torsional stress to bring the suspension within tolerance, an infrared beam is applied specifically to the region while the load beam is held at the torsional deflected state. The infrared source stress relieves the load beam so deflected, allowing it to establish a new free state with minimal residual stress remaining in the material of the beam. The assembly is then retested and retreated, if necessary, under varying angles of torsional stress until its static roll characteristics fall within acceptable tolerances.

Abstract: A floating-ball/tooling-hole coupler that is adapted to provide a precise alignment between a testing tool and a receiving tooling hole in a disk-drive suspension assembly. The ball is housed in a precision-tapered conical structure with a back plate through which the tool's load is exerted. A conforming tooling hole is formed centered at a desired testing point along the longitudinal axis of the suspension, thus providing a precise point of connection between the two. As the tool begins pushing against the assembly to impart a load, the ball floats within a predetermined degree of freedom and is captured by the tooling hole to obtain alignment therewith, which causes the force exerted by the back plate to be transferred to the tooling hole in perfect alignment with the desired testing point.