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
A prototype has successfully printed viscoelastic materials on head gimbal assemblies and demonstrated the enhanced performance of this solution.
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: 4-5A 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
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Researchers
- Michael McAlpine Kuhrmeyer Family Chair Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering