A numerical study of the dimple/gimbal interface in a hard disk drive

A finite element (FE) model for the dimple/gimbal interface of a hard disk drive is developed as a function of normal load, friction coefficient, material properties and dimple geometry. The air bearing force is approximated as a normal load acting on the slider. A rotational acceleration was applied to the dimple to simulate accessing of a hard disk drive suspension during seeking. Results for the relative displacement between the dimple and the gimbal are determined for a typical suspension as a function of normal load, rotational acceleration, friction coefficient, material properties and geometrical parameters of suspension and flexure.