Abstract: A disk clamp is provided for securing one or more data storage disks to a disk drive without the need for screws. A preloading device is also provided for installing the disk clamp and removing the disk clamp after installation. The preloading device applies a load to the clamp to deflect the clamp, and allows a retaining ring to be positioned between the disk clamp and the hub of the disk drive. Preloading the disk clamp helps to reduce disk drive contamination, potential damage to the motor hub, and improves reworkability of the disk drive. The preloading device can be incorporated within a manually manipulated preloading device, or within an automated assembly process in which the preloading device is incorporated. Methods are also provided for clamp preloading and clamp installation.

Abstract: A clamp for securing data storage disks to a hub of a disk drive mechanism includes a flat body with a protuberance that defines a flat distal surface for engaging a data storage disk. The body also includes bores that receive members for securing the clamp to the hub and at least one groove for distributing the securing force of the securing members.

Abstract: A disc assembly, a method for producing the disc assembly, and a corresponding disc drive for recording and reading digital information is disclosed. The disc assembly is assembled without using mechanical fasteners and adhesives. The disc assembly includes a platter sandwiched between a plastic clamp and a hub that engages with the clamp. The hub has a hole through which a stake is inserted. The stake is heated to form a rivet-like structure that holds the clamp to the hub. Alternatively, the clamp may be pressed into a receptacle, such as a channel, to hold the clamp to the hub. The clamp may have a circular bevel surface to self align the clamp to the platter as it is affixed to the hub. The corresponding disc drive includes a spindle motor, transducer and actuator. Methods for producing the disc assembly are disclosed.

Abstract: An improved disk drive actuator for moving read/write heads to interface with a storage medium of a disk cartridge has an improved head lifting tab. The head lifting tab has first and second curved portions. The first portion may be curved about the longitudinal axis of the lifting tab. The second portion is curved about a line that is in angular relationship with the longitudinal axis, and about the longitudinal axis. The curved first portion increases the stiffness of the actuator, and the curved second portion defines a camming surface for slidably engaging the load ramp and lifting the heads away from a disk cartridge.

Abstract: A latch system for a removable cartridge and disk drive is provided. The cartridge is hinged at the back so as to pivot apart about an axis that is perpendicular to an axis of rotation of the disk. A pair of latches are disposed on opposing sides of the cartridge outboard of a labyrinth seal. Each of the latches includes an upper and a lower protrusion that acts as a catch that are insertable into corresponding apertures in the cartridge. The latches a spring-loaded toward a closed position. A load ramp for loading and unloading heads is fixed in the drive and contacts and engages a first latch, and a second unlatching member is fixed in the drive and contacts and engages the second latch. Employing the load ramp to unlatch one side of the cartridge conserves space within the cartridge.

Abstract: A disc assembly, a method for producing the disc assembly, and a corresponding disc drive for recording and reading digital information is disclosed. The disc assembly is assembled without using mechanical fasteners and adhesives. The disc assembly includes a platter sandwiched between a plastic clamp and a hub that engages with the clamp. The hub has a hole through which a stake is inserted. The stake is heated to form a rivet-like structure that holds the clamp to the hub. Alternatively, the clamp may be pressed into a receptacle, such as a channel, to hold the clamp to the hub. The clamp may have a circular bevel surface to self align the clamp to the platter as it is affixed to the hub. The corresponding disc drive includes a spindle motor, transducer and actuator. Methods for producing the disc assembly are disclosed.

Abstract: A data recording cartridge that includes a shell that protects a data recording medium from damage and from particulate contamination is disclosed. When the cartridge is in a closed position, the top shell and bottom shell form a seal to exclude particulate matter from the data recording medium. Because the seal encloses the perimeter of the data recording medium, both internally generated and external particulates do not contaminate the data recording medium. A drive for opening and operating the cartridge is also disclosed.Another aspect of the present invention includes a hub having an enlarged center hollow, and a spindle motor having a top protrusion that fits into the enlarged center hollow. A spindle motor top bearing juts into the underside of a cavity created by the protrusion, thereby more efficiently using vertical space.

Abstract: A plastic disc for storing digital information is disclosed. The disc comprises a plastic platter that is integrally formed concentrically around a metal portion. The disc may have an inner plastic portion located on an inside rim of the metal portion. Preferably, the metal portion has a flange on its rim surface to enhance bonding with the plastic. In another embodiment, the disc may be formed entirely of plastic, and include a clip for attaching the disk to a spindle motor. A disc drive that cooperates with the disc devices, and a method of forming discs is also disclosed.

Abstract: A disk hub for a removable cartridge is disclosed that has an enlarged center hollow, and a spindle motor is also disclosed that has a top protrusion that fits into the enlarged center hollow. The center hollow and protrusion have diameters at least as large as the outside diameter of a spindle motor top bearing. While the spindle motor is engaged to the hub, the top bearing projects into the center hollow, thereby efficiently using vertical space.

Abstract: A disk hub for a removable cartridge is disclosed that has an enlarged center hollow, and a spindle motor is also disclosed that has a top protrusion that fits into the enlarged center hollow. The center hollow and protrusion have diameters at least as large as the outside diameter of a spindle motor top bearing. While the spindle motor is engaged to the hub, the top bearing projects into the center hollow, thereby efficiently using vertical space.

Abstract: A transducer suspension assembly comprises mounting base plate (40), a spring element (42), a load beam (44) and a flexure (46) having a reduced-footprint slider (60). A partial etch (50) is formed in the spring element of the suspension. The spring element further includes a pair of lateral flanges (54). The flexure contains a second pair of flanges (64) and two longitudinal arrays of openings (70 and 72) formed in the flanges. A shortened, high-stiffness service loop (69) is connected to the reduced-footprint slider.

Abstract: A low profile disk drive assembly comprises an enclosure having a sealed volume substantially laterally displaced with respect to a circuit volume. The sealed volume has an extension which extends laterally toward one corner portion of the enclosure whereas the circuit volume is disposed substantially within an adjacent corner portion of the enclosure. The sealed volume contains one or more disks and a read/write head actuator assembly. A flexible circuit, which couples to the read/write head actuator assembly inside the sealed volume, extends from inside sealed volume, through a wall of the enclosure which separates the sealed volume from the circuit volume, across the circuit volume, and to an interface connector. The interface connector may be used to connect the disk drive assembly to a system with which the disk drive assembly is to operate. A multichip module is mounted on one side of the flexible circuit inside the circuit volume.