Air bearing parameter effects on take-off velocity

An air bearing simulation analysis of a taper flat slider is presented for predicting the effects of slider/suspension parameters on the take-off velocity of the slider. These take-off velocities are determined through the use of a computer program that solves the Reynolds gas lubrication equation for the pressure distribution in the air bearing. Of the many parameters considered, crown (curvature along the length of the air bearing surface) has the most impact on take-off velocity, and therefore on the sliding distance that the slider is in contact with the disk during a contact start/stop operation. The nonlinear relationship between crown and take-off velocity is shown and discussed. Several improved take-off designs are presented