Richard T Curran

Title: Richard T Curran: A Pioneer in Disk Drive Technology

Introduction

Richard T Curran is an accomplished inventor based in Los Altos, California, known for his contributions to disk drive technology. With three patents to his name, he has significantly influenced the way data is read and processed in modern hard drives. His innovative approaches continue to impact the tech industry today.

Latest Patents

Richard Curran's latest patents include:

1. **Disk Drive Generating Off-Track Read Capability for a Plurality of Track Segments**: This patent discloses a disk drive consisting of a head actuated over a disk containing multiple tracks. The innovative design enables data to be read from a target track while generating off-track read capabilities for several segments of that track. Through these capabilities, averages of track centers, track widths, or repeatable runouts can be computed, enhancing data retrieval processes.

2. **In-Drive Correction of Servo Pattern Errors**: Curran's second patent focuses on embedded servo sectors within a data track of a hard disk drive. It involves a proprietary method for positioning a rotary actuator using a laser-interferometer-based servo writer. This method allows for writing patterns within each servo sector while incorporating undetermined position errors. The subsequent steps include extracting these errors to develop burst correction values, which play a crucial role in improving the accuracy of the data track following process.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Richard T Curran has worked with several esteemed companies in the technology sector, including Quantum Corporation and Western Digital Technologies, Inc. His work at these organizations has positioned him as a key figure in the advancement of disk drive systems, particularly in the areas of data retrieval and error correction.

Collaborations

In his professional journey, Curran has collaborated with notable individuals such as Stanley H Shepherd and Richard M Ehrlich. These collaborations have greatly enriched his work and contributed to the innovative solutions he developed in the field of disk drives.

Conclusion

Richard T Curran's inventions reflect a deep understanding of disk drive technology and its challenges. Through his patents and collaborations, he has significantly advanced the capabilities of hard drives, making data retrieval more efficient and reliable. His contributions continue to resonate within the tech industry, underscoring the importance of innovation in driving technological progress.