Ultra submicron flying head design for near-field optical storage

A microsize flying head was developed based on the micro fluid theory of hydrodynamics to improve the coupling efficiency between solid immersion lens (SIL) and disk for near-field optical recording. A mechanical model for the head flying characteristics was solved using the finite volume method. The lens and SIL were integrated on the flying head to overcome the defocusing effect during disk rotation. Both positive and negative pressures were generated by the air bearing of the flying head, with the stiffness and motion stability enhanced by the negative pressures. The SIL moves on a rail under the slider which provides sub-micron spacing from the disk surface. The experimental tests were successful with a flying height less than 65 nm from the surface. The carrying capacity exceeded 80 mN. The flying head provides an excellent design for near-field optical systems.