Abstract: A Disk File Module of compact slim-line form in a sealed container which encloses all mechanical and electromechanical elements within one unitized module. The magnetic disk is integrated with the rotor of a motor located at the central axial area of the disk to form a slim, substantially planar configuration. A voice-coil actuator having extremely small moving mass and a short (.+-. 3/4 inch) stroke can move flying transducer heads for full stroke access within one disk revolution or less. Integrated with the voice-coil actuator unit is a rotary solenoid and cam for "unloading" (moving away from the disk surfaces) the Read/Write heads of the transducing means. The module weighs less than 20 pounds and is electrically connected to an Electronics Module which provides power and electrical control signals. The Electronics Module can provide power and control for a plurality of Disk File Modules which modules are also replaceable and interchangeable simply by electrical connector means.

Abstract: A low-mass low-inductance short-stroke voice-coil actuator used with a positionable transducer and magnetic disk to provide fast memory access in a low cost-per-bit disk file memory system. Enclosed in a sealed disk module, the actuator and transducing system provide access to any disk information track within one disk revolution or less. Integral with said actuator is a total moving mass of less than 50 grams. A short voice-coil, of one inch or less, is always contained within the magnetic flux of the air gap; and the voice-coil, when energized, can provide a full stroke access (across said magnetic disk) within 16 milliseconds. A pair of spider flexures support (for longitudinal movement) a central rod, which is part of a differential velocity transducer and which is integral with the voice-coil. The central rod is also capable of being rotated by a solenoid to turn a cam which will "unload" or remove the transducing heads away from the disk surfaces.