Maxtor Corporation

Clement Chan

James Harold Bodmer

Shane Walker

A method and apparatus for rotatably interconnecting computer storage disks to a stationary base is provided. The apparatus provides a hybrid bearing assembly having an oil-filled thrust bearing and an air-filled radial bearing. In particular, the apparatus provides a hybrid bearing having an oil-filled thrust bearing that is highly resistant to leakage. In addition, the apparatus provides a hybrid bearing having a radial air bearing with a very large diameter to provide great stiffness in a radial direction using common manufacturing tolerances. The method of the present invention includes rotatably interconnecting a hub for suspending computer storage media to a base or enclosure using an oil-filled thrust bearing and an air-filled radial bearing. The method further includes balancing the pressures in both directions along the axis of the thrust bearing to prevent leakage of the oil from the bearing. The method also includes providing an air bearing having a very large diameter.

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Longmont, CO, United States of America

Clement Chan