Robert Frederick Herald

Title: The Innovative Mind of Robert Frederick Herald

Introduction

Robert Frederick Herald, an inventive spirit hailing from Rochester, MN, has made significant contributions to technology with his three patents. Working at the renowned International Business Machines Corporation, Herald has focused on improving disk drive technology, showcasing his ingenuity and technical expertise in the field of electrical engineering.

Latest Patents

Herald's latest patents reflect his innovative approach to solving complex problems within disk drive operations. One of his key inventions is a method and apparatus for error data feedback in a diskette drive. This patent describes a system where error information is transmitted across a limited interface from the disk drive to its using system by utilizing the read data line during fault mode operations. A pulse width detector, located in an adapter, identifies fault signals and inhibits the spindle motor signal from the using system to the disk drive. His design ensures that even during faults, crucial signals allow the system to detect anomalies and output relevant fault data bits efficiently.

Another notable invention by Herald is a braking system for a loaded stepping motor. This system features a transistor that responds to the voltage across the stepping motor's stator coils, initiating controlled capacitor discharging to short out all coils except for the one receiving energizing voltage. This innovative braking mechanism ensures precise targeting of the rotor's position, particularly as it approaches its designated target on a return movement, thereby improving the reliability and performance of magnetic disk drives.

Career Highlights

Herald’s work at IBM has positioned him as a key player in advancing technology related to magnetic disk drives. His patents not only demonstrate technical prowess but also emphasize the importance of reliability and efficiency in data storage solutions. His contributions have had a lasting impact on how industries handle data, ensuring more robust and error-resistant systems.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Herald has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including James Roland Dillinger and Irving L. Miller. These partnerships at IBM have fostered an environment of innovation, allowing for the refinement and advancement of several technological solutions in disk drive systems. Such collaborations reflect the collective effort in the pursuit of excellence in engineering and technology.

Conclusion

Robert Frederick Herald’s inventive contributions are a testament to his skills and determination as an inventor. With a focus on enhancing disk drive functionality, his patents represent significant advancements in the field, impacting how data is managed and stored in numerous applications. As technology continues to evolve, the foundational work of inventors like Herald will undoubtedly continue to inspire future innovations.