Thin-profile spindle motor. Single hydrodynamic-pressure thrust and radial
bearings are established about a thrust plate on the end of the motor
shaft, encompassed by a cylindrical casing. Hydrodynamic
pressure-generating grooves scored on either of the thrust plate end
faces, or either of the inner faces of the casing ends opposing the thrust
plate end faces, are a component of the single thrust bearing. A micro-gap
clearance for the thrust bearing, retaining lubricant continuously with
the radial bearing, is established on whichever side of the thrust plate
the thrust bearing is formed. Like grooves scored on either the thrust
plate circumferential surface, or the casing inner cylindrical surface by
which it is opposed at a micro-gap clearance, the clearance itself, and
lubricant retained therein form the single radial bearing. Means for
magnetically counterbalancing the thrust hydrodynamic-pressure are
provided between rotor hub and the stator or casing.