Keith A Bates

Title: Innovations by Keith A. Bates: A Pioneer in Optical Disk Technologies

Introduction

Keith A. Bates, based in Lafayette, Colorado, is a notable inventor with two patents to his name. His innovative work primarily focuses on enhancing the performance and reliability of optical disk apparatuses, making significant contributions to the field of servo systems.

Latest Patents

Among his latest patents is the "Focus and Tracking Servo Decoupling System." This invention introduces a circuit designed to electronically compensate for optical and mechanical instabilities in the focus and tracking control servo circuits of optical disk apparatuses. The innovative circuit includes a filter and a variable gain amplifier, which effectively pass a tracking error signal compensation component at a chosen frequency where mechanical resonance plays a crucial role. The outcome is the electronic elimination of optical feedthrough at these resonant frequencies, alongside a calibration circuit that establishes compensation magnitudes for each optical disk used.

His second patent, "Focus Servo Loop Correction," addresses errors in feedback servo systems, particularly in head positioning within optical disk data recording and retrieval systems. The invention ensures that the feedback signal is forced to zero when the head is optimally focused. This system counters alignment disturbances caused by usage and transport, ensuring the head maintains an accurate best focus position. By reading the focus error signal and adjusting the gain in the feedback loop, errors due to component drift are effectively corrected.

Career Highlights

Keith A. Bates is associated with the International Business Machines Corporation (IBM), where his work has pushed the boundaries of technology in optical data management. His inventive breakthroughs are vital for improving user experiences in data reading and writing processes.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Keith has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Nhan Xuan Bui and Delbert A. Hansen. These partnerships have helped foster a culture of innovation within their professional endeavors, leading to advancements in the field of optical technologies.

Conclusion

Keith A. Bates stands out in the realm of inventions focused on optical disk systems. His patents represent significant advancements that enhance the efficiency and reliability of data storage technologies. His work at IBM and collaborations with fellow innovators highlight the impact of his contributions to the field of servo systems in optical devices.