Self-latching restraint for an actuator of a disk drive

Abstract

An actuator fixing apparatus for a disk drive of a computer is disclosed. In a disk drive system having a disk capable of being rotated at a high speed by a spindle motor, a pivotally installed actuator, head gimbals installed on one end of the actuator connecting the actuator to a magnetic head, a voice coil motor and a bobbin positioned on a bottom portion of the actuator, an actuator fixing apparatus includes an automatic locking arm extending from an end portion of the actuator. The automatic locking arm has a locking groove formed on a bottom portion thereof. The apparatus also includes a stopper having first and second locking magnets and a hook-shaped locking unit rotatably installed adjacent to the stopper having first and second metal conducting plates. The hook-shaped locking unit has a locking projection extending from it, whereby the locking projection is inserted into the locking groove to prevent movement of the actuator. When the locking projection is fully inserted into the locking groove, the second locking magnet and the second metal conductor are attached. Similarly, when the locking projection is fully withdrawn from the locking groove, the first locking magnet and the first metal conductor are attached.