Rod Brittner

Title: Innovations by Rod Brittner

Introduction

Rod Brittner is an accomplished inventor based in Longmont, Colorado. He has made significant contributions to the field of data storage technology, particularly in optimizing the performance of disc drives. With a total of 2 patents to his name, Brittner's work has had a notable impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of data retrieval systems.

Latest Patents

Brittner's latest patents include "Time Optimal Seeks Using Linear Velocity Scheduling" and "Continuously Adaptive Seek Deceleration Profiling." The first patent discloses a method and apparatus for optimizing seeks for a head on an actuator arm of a disc drive. This method involves calculating the distance to the target track and determining the optimum time to seek over that distance for each velocity sampling point. The target velocity is computed based on the obtained distance and optimum time, allowing for precise adjustments to the servomechanism's acceleration. The apparatus includes a memory for storing acceleration and motor time constants, a microprocessor for calculations, and a power amplifier to drive the servomechanism.

The second patent focuses on adapting a control system that governs the swing of an actuator arm to the actual deceleration capacity of the attached servomechanism. This method maximally accelerates the actuator arm, measures actual acceleration, and calculates the ratio between actual and nominal acceleration. The system then adjusts the target velocity and feedforward signal accordingly. The apparatus includes a servomechanism, a transducer for position signals, a ROM with a velocity profile, and a microprocessor that controls the actuator arm's velocity.

Career Highlights

Rod Brittner is currently employed at Seagate Technology Incorporated, a leading company in data storage solutions. His work at Seagate has allowed him to develop innovative technologies that enhance the performance of disc drives. Brittner's expertise in optimizing actuator arm movements has contributed to advancements in the efficiency of data retrieval processes.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Brittner has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Robert Dale Murphy and Margot A Lapanse. These collaborations have fostered an environment of innovation and have led to the development of cutting-edge technologies in the field of data storage.

Conclusion

Rod Brittner's contributions to the field of data storage technology through his patents and work at Seagate Technology Incorporated highlight his role as a significant innovator.