Spindle motor and hard disk drive

US6943985B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Minebea Co., Ltd. · JP

Inventors

• Andreas Kull · Hüfingen, DE
• Joerg Hoffman · Mettlach, DE
• Olaf Winterhalter · Epfendorf, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 7, 2003
• Grant date: Sep 13, 2005
• Expiry date: Mar 29, 2023

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16C2370/12
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A spindle motor for a hard disk drive having a stationary component with a first bearing surface, and a rotating component with a second bearing surface located in opposing relationship with the first bearing surface. The first and the second bearing surfaces form a hydrodynamic bearing. A bearing gap is formed between the first bearing surface and the second bearing surface, the bearing gap being filled with lubricating fluid. An oil-free recess is provided in the motor for placement of electromagnetic components of the motor. The stationary component is provided with a first set of seal surfaces, and the rotating component is provided with a second set of seal surfaces. The seal surfaces of the first set are located opposite the seal surfaces of the second set and form a labyrinth seal sealing the bearing gap from the oil-free motor recess.