A new adaptive algorithm for adjusting the HDD actuator arm's position

This paper presents a new algorithm for adjusting the hard-disk-drive's actuator arm (HDD actuator arm) to its required position. The adjuster is usually called an “Auto Tweak Machine (ATM)”. It repeatedly bends the HDD actuator arm until the position error of the arm is in an acceptable range. This process in the HDD production line is time consuming. To reduce the number of repeated adjustments, a new adaptive algorithm has been developed for the ATM. The ATM becomes an intelligent machine that is able to tailor the stiffness of the HDD actuator arm and predicts the amount of bending required for the HDD actuator arm.