YongJun Zhao

Title: **The Innovations of YongJun Zhao: A Leader in Heat-Assisted Recording Technology**

Introduction

YongJun Zhao, located in Eden Prairie, MN, is an esteemed inventor known for his significant contributions to the field of recording technology. With an impressive portfolio that includes 44 patents, Zhao continues to push the boundaries of innovation in his domain. His expertise primarily lies in developing advanced recording heads which are critical for data storage technologies.

Latest Patents

Among his latest patents, Zhao's work includes the "Heat-assisted recording head having mechanically robust subwavelength mirror with plasmonic liner." This invention features a near-field transducer positioned close to a media-facing surface of the recording head, with a waveguide delivering light to the transducer. The design incorporates two subwavelength focusing mirrors bolstered by a plasmonic metal liner, enhancing performance through mechanical robustness and resistance to wear and corrosion. Another notable patent is the "Recessed hardmask used to form heat-assisted magnetic recording near-field transducer with heat sink." This method innovatively utilizes a heat sink along with a near-field transducer, optimizing the milling process and improving efficiency in manufacturing.

Career Highlights

YongJun Zhao is currently affiliated with Seagate Technology Incorporated, a leading company in data storage solutions. His ongoing research and development work has proven invaluable, contributing to the advancement of heat-assisted magnetic recording technologies which are essential for modern data centers and storage devices.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Zhao has collaborated with notable professionals, including Mark Ostrowski and Chubing Peng. This teamwork fosters a culture of innovation, allowing for the exchange of ideas and techniques that enhance the capabilities and applications of their developments.

Conclusion

YongJun Zhao's innovative spirit and technical expertise continue to transform the landscape of recording technology. His patents reflect a deep understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of engineering, ensuring that his contributions will have lasting impacts on the data storage industry. As industries evolve, inventors like Zhao play a crucial role in shaping future innovations.