A piezoelectrically actuated suspension for high TPI (Tracks per inch) hard
disk drives is presented. Two reinforced piezoelectric microactuators, pla
ced in parallel between the base plate and the spring beam, are used for th
e secondary actuation, A stroke of 1.2 mum at the head was observed when dr
iven by 30 V, The first torsion and the sway mode frequencies are 6.28 kHz
and 10.5 kHz, respectively, In addition, the actuated suspension also has s
ome distinguished features such as, a C-channel and meanderline springs for
shock-resistance enhancement. A possible vertical motion of the suspension
is helpful for contact-start-stop (CSS) friction reduction and gramload ad
justment. It also makes the suspension free from twist due to two layers of
piezoelectric plates on both sides of the beam. As a result, the developed
actuated suspension can be used to support high TPI hard disk drive servo
systems.