Submicron spacing dynamics for flying head slider mechanisms using building block approach

This paper describes submicron spacing dynamics for total flying head slider mechanisms, considering suspension gimbal spring and actuator arm mechanisms as well as the air bearing slider, via building block approach (BBA). BBA, based on the modal synthesis method and finite element method, is applied to a system, which consists of a fluid film lubrication system and structure mechanisms system. It became clear that a suspension gimbal spring and an actuator arm, as a 3-dimensional distributed mass system, affects slider dynamics and that resonance or nonresonance, caused by those mechanisms, exists in slider frequency response in addition to air film resonance. Furthermore, a comparison between Winchester and Whitney mechanisms is discussed from the slider dynamics points of view. Allowable media accelerations are derived for both suspension mechanisms. A comparison between theoretical and experimental results is carried out. Results show good agreement and the BBA computer simulation is verified to be a valid and very highly efficient approach for integrated flying head mechanism dynamic analysis.