Abstract: A load-unload ramp structure with a cantilevered fin portion to reduce drop shock in a hard-disk drive (HDD). The load-unload ramp structure includes a first load-unload ramp, a fin, and a bracket portion. The first load-unload ramp is configured to lift a first head-slider away from a magnetic-recording disk. The fin is coupled to the first load-unload ramp and is disposed below a first parking position of the first head-slider. The fin includes a fin base portion and a first cantilevered fin portion. The first cantilevered fin portion is coupled to, and extends outward from, the fin base portion. The bracket portion is integrally attached to the first load-unload ramp, and is configured to allow affixing the load-unload ramp structure in a static position in a disk-enclosure base of the HDD. A HDD including the load-unload ramp structure and a method for providing protection from drop shock are also provided.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a disk drive includes a rotatable carriage which supports a head configured to read information from a disk recording medium and to write data to the a disk recording medium, and a latch mechanism configured to latch and hold the carriage in a retracted position when subjected to an external force with the carriage in the retracted position. The latch mechanism includes an engaging portion on the carriage, a first latch pivotably provided on a base in a first mode and includes a latch lug configured to engage the engaging portion, and a second latch pivotably provided on the base in a second mode different from the first mode and includes a latch lug configured to engage the engaging portion.

Abstract: An actuator latch apparatus for a disk drive, having a notch positioned at a first end portion of the swing arm, a latch lever rotatably installed in a base member, a first core provided on a second end portion of the swing arm, and a second core provided at a counterbalance of the latch lever. The first and second cores apply a torque to the swing arm and latch lever, respectively, in a first direction by a magnetic force of the magnet. The latch lever has a latch pivot, a latch arm provided at a first side of the latch pivot and having a hook to be caught by the notch when the actuator is locked, and the counterbalance provided on a second side of the latch pivot. The latch arm of the latch lever is elastically deformed when contacted by the swing arm during parking of the head.

Abstract: In a disk apparatus, an actuator includes a magnetic plate member which generates a magnetic attraction force for turning the actuator in the unloading direction by interaction with a stationary magnet. The plate member is superposed on the stationary magnet in the plane direction while keeping a gap with the stationary magnet in the vertical direction. An area of the plate member superposed on the stationary magnet is increased as the actuator turns in the unloading direction and approaches the outer stopper. When the actuator approaches the outer stopper, the stationary magnet gives, to the plate member, a magnetic attraction force of such an intensity that brings the actuator on the outer stopper against a friction force applied to the actuator.