Darrick Taylor Smith

Title: Darrick Taylor Smith: Innovator in Slider Clamp Technology

Introduction

Darrick Taylor Smith is a prominent inventor based in San Jose, California. He holds an impressive portfolio of 18 patents, showcasing his contributions to the field of technology and engineering. His work primarily focuses on advancements in slider clamp fixtures and related processes.

Latest Patents

Among his latest patents is a method for making a high-density slider clamp fixture. This innovative fixture is designed for accurately positioning a large number of head sliders for metrology testing. The fixture comprises a single-piece, monolithic structure with numerous slider nests aligned in rows and columns. Each nest features a reference datum surface that ensures precise alignment with other surfaces in the structure. Additionally, the fixture includes a flexure clamp for independent clamping of each slider against the reference datum surfaces.

Another significant patent involves within-row stripe height and wedge angle control for magnetic recording read-write heads. This patent describes a lapping mount tool and process for lapping a row of head sliders. The process includes affixing the row to a fixture and actuating multiple pins to set each head slider for lapping to specific target stripe heights and wedge angles. The innovative design allows for precise control over the lapping process, enhancing the performance of magnetic recording heads.

Career Highlights

Darrick has worked with notable companies, including International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) and HGST Netherlands B.V. His experience in these organizations has contributed significantly to his expertise and innovative capabilities in the field.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Darrick has collaborated with talented individuals such as Glenn Paul Gee and David John Seagle. These collaborations have fostered a creative environment that has led to groundbreaking advancements in technology.

Conclusion

Darrick Taylor Smith's contributions to the field of technology through his patents and collaborations highlight his role as an influential inventor. His innovative solutions in slider clamp technology continue to impact the industry positively.