3D printed damper on the head gimbal assembly of a hard disk drive

A process to 3D print a damping material on the head gimbal assembly of a hard disk drive to reduce vibrations.
Technology No. 2019-267
IP Status: US Patent Issued; Patent No. 11,854,583

Applications

  • Deposition of damping materials on the head gimbal assembly of hard disk drives
  • Reducing vibrations in head gimbal assemblies

Technology Overview

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a process to 3D print damping materials on the head gimbal assembly (HGA) of hard disk drives. The 3D process allows for multi-material printing and precise control over the positioning and thicknesses of these materials. By depositing a material with specific mechanical properties at the desired locations on the HGA, critical frequencies can be dampened. This provides a novel and versatile solution for the design and manufacturing of HGAs with improved dynamic response.

Phase of Development

TRL: 4-5
A prototype has successfully printed viscoelastic materials on head gimbal assemblies and demonstrated the enhanced performance of this solution.

Desired Partnerships

This technology is now available for:
  • License
  • Sponsored research
  • Co-development

Please contact our office to share your business’ needs and learn more.

Researchers

  • Michael McAlpine Kuhrmeyer Family Chair Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering
  • swap_vertical_circlecloud_downloadSupporting documents (1)
    Product brochure
    3D printed damper on the head gimbal assembly of a hard disk drive.pdf
Questions about this technology?