Hugh K Gagnier

Title: Hugh K. Gagnier: Innovator in Disk Drive Technology

Introduction

Hugh K. Gagnier is a notable inventor based in Sherman Oaks, CA. He has made significant contributions to the field of disk drive technology, holding a total of 2 patents. His work focuses on enhancing the functionality and reliability of disk drives, particularly through innovative automatic head retract systems.

Latest Patents

Gagnier's latest patents include an automatic head retract system for disk drives. This system operates in response to electric power turn off, retracting the heads to a landing zone on the disk surface. The heads are retracted by a positioner motor, which is controlled by logic internal to the disk drive unit, eliminating the need for intervention by a host computer. The positioner motor is a multiphase DC brushless motor that receives current from a capacitor charged during normal drive usage and from the back EMF of a spindle motor after power loss. A latch is employed to mechanically lock the heads in the landing zone, ensuring data integrity.

Career Highlights

Hugh K. Gagnier has had a successful career at Peripheral Technology Inc., where he has been instrumental in developing advanced disk drive technologies. His innovative approaches have contributed to the company's reputation for quality and reliability in the tech industry.

Collaborations

Gagnier has worked alongside talented individuals such as Donald G. Stupeck and Gaston A. Palombo. Their collaborative efforts have furthered advancements in disk drive technology and have led to the successful implementation of Gagnier's patented systems.

Conclusion

Hugh K. Gagnier's contributions to disk drive technology through his patents and work at Peripheral Technology Inc. highlight his role as an influential inventor in the tech industry. His innovative solutions continue to impact the reliability and performance of disk drives today.