Lightweight actuator in a computer mass memory storage device

Abstract

A disk-based drive (45) with a reduced weight actuator (50) is disclosed. The actuator (50) includes an E-block (30) having multiple actuator arms (32) extending therefrom, to which associated read/write heads (14) are attached. The E-block 30 is formed of top and bottom plates (30u, 30d) having openings (31u, 31d) therethrough for receiving a pivot pin (36). A roller bearing (34) having inner and outer races (38i, 38u) and ball bearings (39) therewithin is disposed about the pivot pin (36), between the top and bottom plates (30u, 30d) as installed. In a first embodiment, the inner race (38i) of the bearing (34) is fixably attached to the pivot pin (36) and the pivot pin (36) is fixably attached to the E-block (30). Supports (44) are attached to the outer race (38o) of the bearing (34). A voice coil (37) is mounted to the rear of the E-block (30) to rotate the E-block (30) and position the heads (14) over the desired track of the disks (8). In this embodiment, the inner race (380 and pivot pin (36) rotate with the E-block (30), while the outer race (38o) remains fixed. The mass and rotational inertia of the disclosed actuator (50), as well as the disk drive access time, is thus reduced from conventional designs. An alternative embodiment is also disclosed, in which ring jewel bearings (45) are placed within the lop and bottom plates (30d', 30u') of the E-block (30'), within which a fixed pivot pin (36') is disposed,