Location History:
- Mead, CO (US) (2002)
- Westminster, CO (US) (2002)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2002
Title: Innovations of Shane Walker in Bearing Technology
Introduction
Shane Walker is an accomplished inventor based in Mead, Colorado, known for his contributions to bearing technology. With a total of 2 patents, he has made significant advancements in the design and functionality of air and fluid bearings used in computer storage devices.
Latest Patents
One of Shane's latest patents is for a hybrid air/fluid bearing. This invention provides a method and apparatus for rotatably interconnecting computer storage disks to a stationary base. The hybrid bearing assembly features an oil-filled thrust bearing that is highly resistant to leakage, combined with an air-filled radial bearing. This innovative design allows for a large diameter radial air bearing, which enhances stiffness while maintaining common manufacturing tolerances. The method also includes balancing pressures along the axis of the thrust bearing to prevent oil leakage.
Another notable patent is for a disk drive spindle air bearing. This invention includes an air bearing gap that varies with radial distance from the axis of rotation. This non-uniform gap minimizes contact between the air bearing surfaces when the disk drive hub is at rest or spinning below a certain speed. By reducing contact, Shane's design significantly decreases stiction forces during spin-up operations and minimizes wear particle generation within the bearing. Techniques such as crowned, stepped, and sloped surfaces are employed to achieve the desired non-uniform gap dimension.
Career Highlights
Shane Walker has made a name for himself in the field of bearing technology through his innovative designs and practical applications. His work has been instrumental in improving the performance and reliability of disk drives, which are critical components in modern computing.
Collaborations
Shane has collaborated with notable coworkers, including James Harold Bodmer and Clement Chan, who have contributed to his projects and innovations in the field.
Conclusion
Shane Walker's contributions to bearing technology have paved the way for advancements in computer storage devices. His innovative patents reflect a deep understanding of engineering principles and a commitment to enhancing performance in the tech industry.
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.