Analytical parametric study of head-mounting block for reduction in spring-back deformation after ball swaging in hard disk drives

As part of the author’s effort to optimize the design of the head-mounting blocks (HMBs) used in the head suspensions of hard disk drives, a parametric study was undertaken. First, the author derived a theoretical retention torque equation in preparation for this study. Then, eight design parameters, which are empirically believed to be important for controlling HMB deformation, were selected for the parametric analysis. Subsequently, the HMB deformation and retention torque after ball swaging were calculated using an analytical solution for HMB deformation, previously presented by the author, and the retention torque equation. As a result of this study, an optimal design for the HMB and its analysis results are presented, together with design guidelines for the HMB.