Abstract: Clamping devices and associated methods that are useful to develop both axial and circumferential clamping forces in response to a common axial clamping force. The clamp is able to use a simple mechanism to generate both kinds of clamping forces from a single, axial actuating force. The clamping devices of the present invention are particularly useful for clamping cover and base deck components of a hard disk drive enclosure together to allow the components to be joined and sealed together using welding techniques.

Abstract: Technologies are described herein for a power dumper module capable of adapting to power requirements of its implementation. An exemplary adaptive power dumper module includes a power dump circuit configured to dump excess regenerative energy from a load when a voltage at an output to the load exceeds a trip voltage level, and an adaptive circuit configured to select the trip voltage level from a plurality of trip voltage levels based on a bus voltage of a power supply supplying power to the load.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for installing a support member to support a flexible element, such as a shipping comb used to support a flexible suspension assembly of a head-stack assembly (HSA). A robotic end effector configured to insert the support member to bias the flexible element. Prior to said insertion, an inspection assembly verifies at least one physical parameter of the member while the member is supported by the end effector. One or more computerized video images along at least one axis are preferably obtained by the inspection assembly, and machine readable code on the member is preferably decoded from said image(s). The end effector preferably includes a pair of opposing gripper fingers which engage the support member with variable compressive force during insertion. A cleaning assembly preferably cleans the support member prior to insertion, and a subsequent video image is preferably obtained after insertion to verify installation of the member.