Abstract: A device streamlines air flow inside a hard disk drive with a stationary afterbody that is located adjacent to each of the disks. A diverter portion of the device enhances the volumetric flow of air through a diffuser and a contraction. The overall function of the device effectively expands the air flow so that the speed of the air flow gradually decreases while pressure increases. This design reduces losses in system momentum due to sudden expansion of the air in the drive. In addition, air flow moving toward the disk pack may be contracted to allow efficient energy conversion from pressure energy to kinetic energy prior to merging of the bypass air flow with the air flow among the disks.

Abstract: A top pole piece of a voice coil motor (VCM) is attached to a hard disk drive cover without screw fasteners and with minimal loss of VCM magnetic flux capacity. A pair of leaf springs are supported at both ends, rather than by cantilever, to more uniformly distribute mechanical stress throughout the springs so that less space is required to achieve the same transverse load as a cantilevered spring of the same profile. The smaller space envelope required by this design minimizes the loss of magnetic flux capacity of the VCM. Each leaf spring has two integral legs, central portions of which are rigidly fastened to the drive cover. The end of each leg opposite the central portion applies a force against the cover in the assembled disk drive.

Abstract: A device streamlines air flow inside a hard disk drive with a stationary afterbody that is located adjacent to each of the disks. A diverter portion of the device enhances the volumetric flow of air through the diffuser. The overall function of the device effectively expands the air flow so that the speed of the air flow gradually decreases while pressure increases. This design reduces losses in system momentum due to sudden expansion of the air in the drive. In addition, air flow moving toward the disk pack may be contracted to allow efficient energy conversion from pressure energy to kinetic energy prior to merging of the bypass air flow with the air flow among the disks.

Abstract: A stabilizing backing plate for a rotating flexible record disk has a bearing surface with a smooth finish to prevent disk wear. A plurality of depressions in the backing plate trap air to prevent the flexible disk from adhering to the backing plate during start-up.