Importance

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Abstract

A shape memory metal actuator latch is provided adjacent to a rotating disc within a data storage device for automatically locking the carriage arm in its storage position when power is removed from the drive. The carriage arm is provided with a pin or casting protrusion which normally slides against or past a flexible arm mounted adjacent the carriage arm. A shape memory metal wire is attached to the flexible arm adjacent its hinged point of rotation, i.e. adjacent a point at which the arm flexes under pressure. When the disc drive is operational, the shape memory wire has power applied thereto, heating the wire past its transformation point and causing a change in phase. The resulting force applied to the arm deforms the arm around the hinge point so that the pin on the carriage arm is freed from engagement with the locking arm. When disc drive power is removed, the carriage arm and the transducer it carries are returned to the safe storage landing zone, and the pin or post is captured by the arm which returns to its unbiased position upon the removal of power from the shape memory wire.

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First Claim