Self-aligning slider and platform clamping system for manufacturing integrated lead suspensions

摘要

A clamp assembly holds an integrated lead suspension during assembly. The clamp assembly has a number of features for precisely positioning the integrated lead suspension while transducer heads are being mechanically and electrically connected to it. The clamp assembly works in conjunction with a stationary platform which restricts movement of the suspension in three directions. The clamp assembly includes upper and lower support plates which compensate for lateral misalignment, and a pair of clamps which independently isolate the suspension and slider while compensating for rotational misalignment.