Magnetic head and magnetic recording apparatus

Abstract

The invention provides a magnetic head capable of improving characteristics and a magnetic recording apparatus. According to one embodiment, a magnetic head includes a reproduction unit. The reproduction unit includes a first shield, a second shield, a third shield, a fourth shield, a first magnetic layer, a first intermediate layer, and a second intermediate layer. A second direction from the third shield toward the fourth shield intersects a first direction from the first shield toward the second shield. The first magnetic layer is provided between the first shield and the second shield, and between the third shield and the fourth shield. The first intermediate layer is provided between the first shield and the first magnetic layer, and is non-magnetic. The second intermediate layer is provided between the first magnetic layer and the second shield, and is non-magnetic. A second intermediate layer length of the second intermediate layer along the second direction is shorter than a first intermediate layer length of the first intermediate layer along the second direction.

Description

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-123419 (filing date July 28, 2023) and claims priority from the aforementioned application, and the present application incorporates the entire contents of the aforementioned application by reference. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device. Background Art

[0003] Information is recorded on a magnetic recording medium such as a HDD (Hard Disk Drive) using a magnetic head including a magnetic sensor using a magnetic layer. Improvement in characteristics is desired in the magnetic head. Summary of the invention

[0004] Embodiments of the present invention provide a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device capable of improving characteristics.

[0005] Technical solutions to solve problems

[0006] According to an embodiment, a magnetic head includes a reproduction part. The reproduction part includes a first shield, a second shield, a third shield, a fourth shield, a first magnetic layer, a first intermediate layer, and a second intermediate layer. A second direction from the third shield toward the fourth shield intersects with a first direction from the first shield toward the second shield. The first magnetic layer is disposed between the first shield and the second shield, and between the third shield and the fourth shield. The first intermediate layer is disposed between the first shield and the first magnetic layer and is non-magnetic. The second intermediate layer is disposed between the first magnetic layer and the second shield and is non-magnetic. A second intermediate layer length of the second intermediate layer along the second direction is shorter than a first intermediate layer length of the first intermediate layer along the second direction.

[0007] According to the magnetic head having the above-described structure, it is possible to provide a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device having improved characteristics. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 8 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Fig. 9 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Fig.10 It is a schematic perspective view illustrating a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device according to a second embodiment.

[0018] Fig.11 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment.

[0019] Fig.12 It is a schematic perspective view illustrating a magnetic recording device according to an embodiment.

[0020] Fig.13 (a) and Fig.13 (b) is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment.

[0021] Description of symbols

[0022] 11: 1st magnetic layer, 11a, 11b: 1st, 2nd side surface, 31, 32: 1st, 2nd insulating member, 31a-31d: 1st, 4th insulating region, 41-44: 1st, 4th shielding member, 51-54: 1st, 4th terminal, 61-64: 1st, 4th intermediate layer, 61c-64c: 1st, 4th compound layer, 61m-64m: 1st, 4th metal layer, 70: reproduction part, 70f: medium facing surface, 75a, 75b: 1st, 2nd circuit, 80: magnetic recording medium, 81: magnetic recording layer, 82: medium substrate, 83: magnetization, 85: medium moving direction, 90: recording part, 91, 92: 1st, 2nd magnetic pole, 93: recording part element , 110~116, 114a, 114b: magnetic head, 150: magnetic recording device, 154: suspension, 155: arm, 156: voice coil motor, 157: bearing part, 158: head universal joint assembly, 159: head slider, 159A: air inlet side, 159B: air outlet side, 160: head stack assembly, 161: support frame, 162: coil, 180: recording medium disk, 180M: spindle motor, 181: recording medium, 190: signal processing part, AR: arrow, D1~D3: 1st to 3rd directions, Hx: detection object magnetic field, L11: 1st magnetic layer length, L61~L64: 1st to 4th intermediate layer length, T11: 1st magnetic layer thickness. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0024] The accompanying drawings are schematic or conceptual drawings, and the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the ratio of the size between the parts, etc. are not necessarily limited to the same as the actual ones. Even when representing the same part, there are cases where the mutual sizes and / or ratios are represented differently according to the accompanying drawings.

[0025] In the present specification and each drawing, the same reference numerals are used for the same elements as those described with respect to the drawings already shown, and the detailed description thereof will be appropriately omitted.

[0026] (First embodiment)

[0027] Figure 1 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0028] like Figure 1 As shown, the magnetic head 110 according to the embodiment includes a reproduction section 70 . The reproduction section 70 includes a first shield 41 , a second shield 42 , a third shield 43 , a fourth shield 44 , a first magnetic layer 11 , a first intermediate layer 61 , and a second intermediate layer 62 .

[0029] The second direction D2 from the third shield 43 to the fourth shield 44 intersects with the first direction D1 from the first shield 41 to the second shield 42 .

[0030] In this example, the first direction D1 is the X-axis direction. A direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction is the Y-axis direction. A direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction is the Z-axis direction. The second direction D2 is, for example, the Y-axis direction.

[0031] The first magnetic layer 11 is provided between the first shield 41 and the second shield 42, and between the third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44. The first intermediate layer 61 is provided between the first shield 41 and the first magnetic layer 11. The first intermediate layer 61 is nonmagnetic. The second intermediate layer 62 is provided between the first magnetic layer 11 and the second shield 42. The second intermediate layer 62 is nonmagnetic.

[0032] The length of the second intermediate layer 62 along the second direction D2 is referred to as a second intermediate layer length L62. The length of the first intermediate layer 61 along the second direction D2 is referred to as a first intermediate layer length L61. The second intermediate layer length L62 is shorter than the first intermediate layer length L61.

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, in one example, the reproduction unit 70 includes a first terminal 51, a second terminal 52, a third terminal 53, and a fourth terminal 54. The first terminal 51 is electrically connected to the first shield 41. The second terminal 52 is electrically connected to the second shield 42. The third terminal 53 is electrically connected to the third shield 43. The fourth terminal 54 is electrically connected to the fourth shield 44.

[0034] For example, a first circuit 75a and a second circuit 75b may be provided. The first circuit 75a is electrically connected to the first terminal 51 and the second terminal 52. The second circuit 75b is electrically connected to the third terminal 53 and the fourth terminal 54. In one example, the second circuit 75b supplies current between the third terminal 53 and the fourth terminal 54. The current passes through the third shield 43, the first magnetic layer 11, and the fourth shield 44. At this time, for example, the voltage between the first terminal 51 and the second terminal 52 changes according to the magnetic field Hx of the detection object. It is considered that the change in voltage is caused by, for example, the anomalous Hall effect.

[0035] The change in voltage is detected by the first circuit 75a. Thus, the detection target magnetic field Hx can be detected. In this way, the voltage between the first terminal 51 and the second terminal 52 when a current flows between the third terminal 53 and the fourth terminal 54 can change according to the detection target magnetic field Hx. The detection target magnetic field Hx is based on information recorded on a magnetic recording medium, for example.

[0036] In the embodiment, for convenience, the first circuit 75a and the second circuit 75b may also be considered to be included in the magnetic head 110. The first circuit 75a and the second circuit 75b may be provided independently of the magnetic head 110. These circuits may be included in the magnetic recording device. The first circuit 75a includes, for example, a voltmeter. The second circuit 75b includes, for example, a current source.

[0037] In the embodiment, the first intermediate layer 61 and the second intermediate layer 62 as described above are provided. It is possible that the current passes not only through the first magnetic layer 11 but also through these intermediate layers. The current (leakage current or sneak current) passing through these intermediate layers does not contribute to the change in voltage. Due to the current passing through these intermediate layers, the detection sensitivity decreases. By shortening the length of these intermediate layers, the influence of the leakage current flowing in the intermediate layers can be reduced. On the other hand, by providing these intermediate layers, a good low resistance can be obtained when detecting the voltage, for example, the influence of noise can be reduced.

[0038] In the embodiment, the second intermediate layer length L62 of the second intermediate layer 62 is shorter than the first intermediate layer length L61 of the first intermediate layer 61. Thus, leakage current is suppressed. The rise of resistance is suppressed. According to the embodiment, high detection sensitivity can be obtained. High-precision detection can be obtained. According to the embodiment, a magnetic head capable of improving characteristics can be provided.

[0039] As described above, in the embodiment, an asymmetric structure is applied to the first intermediate layer 61 and the second intermediate layer 62. The asymmetric structure is easy to manufacture and can provide a practical magnetic head 110.

[0040] like Figure 1 As shown, the length of the first magnetic layer 11 along the second direction D2 is defined as the first magnetic layer length L11. The first magnetic layer length L11 is preferably between the first intermediate layer length L61 and the second intermediate layer length L62. This can more effectively suppress leakage current.

[0041] As described above, the first magnetic layer 11 has, for example, an anomalous Hall effect. For example, the first magnetic layer 11 may include at least one selected from Co2MnGa, CoMnAl, and FePt. These materials can effectively obtain the anomalous Hall effect.

[0042] In one example, at least one of the first intermediate layer 61 and the second intermediate layer 62 may include at least one selected from Cu, Au, Ag, Pt, Al, Pd, Ta, Ru, Hf, W, Mo, Ir, Cr, Tb, and Rh. These materials can, for example, suppress the influence of the spins between the shield and the first magnetic layer 11. High sensitivity can be easily obtained.

[0043] like Figure 1As shown, the reproduction unit 70 may further include a third intermediate layer 63 and a fourth intermediate layer 64. The third intermediate layer 63 is provided between the third shield 43 and the first magnetic layer 11 and is nonmagnetic. The fourth intermediate layer 64 is provided between the first magnetic layer 11 and the fourth shield 44 and is nonmagnetic.

[0044] The length of the third intermediate layer 63 along the first direction D1 is set as the third intermediate layer length L63. The length of the first magnetic layer 11 along the first direction D1 is set as the first magnetic layer thickness T11. For example, the third intermediate layer length L63 is shorter than the first magnetic layer thickness T11. The length of the fourth intermediate layer 64 along the first direction D1 is set as the fourth intermediate layer length L64. For example, the fourth intermediate layer length L64 is shorter than the first magnetic layer thickness T11. With such a configuration, the influence of these intermediate layers is suppressed in the detection of voltage. It is easy to obtain higher sensitivity.

[0045] like Figure 1 As shown, the reproduction unit 70 may further include a first insulating member 31. The first insulating member 31 includes a first insulating region 31a and a second insulating region 31b. A portion of the first insulating region 31a is provided between a portion of the third shield 43 and a portion of the first magnetic layer 11. A portion of the second insulating region 31b is provided between a portion of the first magnetic layer 11 and a portion of the fourth shield 44.

[0046] like Figure 1 As shown, another part of the first insulating region 31 a is provided between the first shield 41 and the third shield 43 . Another part of the second insulating region 31 b is provided between the first shield 41 and the fourth shield 44 .

[0047] like Figure 1 As shown, the first insulating member 31 may further include a third insulating region 31c and a fourth insulating region 31d. A portion of the third insulating region 31c is disposed between a portion of the first magnetic layer 11 and the second shield 42. A portion of the fourth insulating region 31d is disposed between another portion of the first magnetic layer 11 and the second shield 42.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, another part of the third insulating region 31c is provided between the third shield 43 and the second shield 42. Another part of the fourth insulating region 31d is provided between the fourth shield 44 and the second shield 42.

[0049] In this example, the third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44 are provided between the first shield 41 and the second shield 42. The third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44 overlap the first shield 41 and the second shield 42 in the first direction D1. The third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44 may not overlap the first shield 41 and the second shield 42 in the first direction D1.

[0050] Figure 2 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0051] like Figure 2 As shown, in the magnetic head 111 according to the embodiment, the structure of the intermediate layer is different from the structure of the intermediate layer in the magnetic head 110. The structure of the magnetic head 111 other than this may be the same as the structure of the magnetic head 110.

[0052] In the magnetic head 111, at least a portion of the first intermediate layer 61 is provided between the third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44 in the second direction D2. In such a magnetic head 111, leakage current can also be suppressed.

[0053] In the magnetic head 111 , a portion of the third intermediate layer 63 extends between the first shield 41 and the third shield 43 . A portion of the fourth intermediate layer 64 extends between the first shield 41 and the fourth shield 44 .

[0054] Figure 3 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0055] like Figure 3 As shown, in the magnetic head 112 according to the embodiment, the structure of the intermediate layer is different from the structure of the intermediate layer in the magnetic head 110. The structure of the magnetic head 112 other than this may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110.

[0056] In the magnetic head 112, a portion of the third insulating region 31c is provided in the second direction D2 between the third shield 43 and the first magnetic layer 11. A portion of the fourth insulating region 31d is provided in the second direction D2 between the first magnetic layer 11 and the fourth shield 44. In such a magnetic head 112, leakage current can also be suppressed.

[0057] Figure 4 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0058] like Figure 4 As shown, in the magnetic head 113 according to the embodiment, the configuration of the first magnetic layer 11 is different from the configuration of the first magnetic layer 11 in the magnetic head 110. The configuration of the magnetic head 113 other than this may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110.

[0059] In the magnetic head 113, the first magnetic layer 11 includes a first side surface 11a opposite to the third intermediate layer 63. The first side surface 11a is inclined relative to the first direction D1. The first magnetic layer 11 includes a second side surface 11b opposite to the fourth intermediate layer 64. The second side surface 11b is inclined relative to the first direction D1. The length of the first magnetic layer 11 along the second direction D2 decreases in the direction from the first shield 41 to the second shield 42. In such a magnetic head 113, leakage current can be further suppressed.

[0060] Figure 5 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0061] like Figure 5 As shown, in the magnetic head 114 according to the embodiment, the lengths of the first intermediate layer 61 and the second intermediate layer 62 along the Z-axis direction are different from each other. The configuration of the magnetic head 114 other than this may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110 and the like.

[0062] In the magnetic head 114, the length 62h of the second intermediate layer 62 along the third direction D3 is shorter than the length 61h of the first intermediate layer 61 along the third direction D3. The third direction D3 intersects with a plane including the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The third direction D3 may be, for example, the Z-axis direction. In such a magnetic head 114, leakage current can also be suppressed.

[0063] like Figure 5 As shown, the length 11h of the first magnetic layer 11 along the third direction D3 may be between the length 62h of the second intermediate layer 62 along the third direction D3 and the length 61h of the first intermediate layer 61 along the third direction D3.

[0064] like Figure 5 As shown, the reproduction unit 70 may further include a second insulating member 32. The second insulating member 32 is provided between the first shield 41 and the second shield 42. The direction from the first intermediate layer 61 to the second insulating member 32 is along the third direction D3. The direction from the first magnetic layer 11 to the second insulating member 32 is along the third direction D3. The direction from the second intermediate layer 62 to the second insulating member 32 is along the third direction D3.

[0065] like Figure 5 As shown, for example, the first shield 41 includes a dielectric facing surface 70f. The second insulating member 32 is separated from the dielectric facing surface 70f in the third direction D3.

[0066] Figure 6 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0067] like Figure 6As shown, in the magnetic head 114a involved in the embodiment, the structure of the first magnetic layer 11 is different from that in the magnetic head 114. The structure of the magnetic head 114a other than this can be the same as that of the magnetic head 114. In the magnetic head 114a, the first magnetic layer 11 protrudes with the side surface of the first intermediate layer 61 and the side surface of the second intermediate layer 62 as a reference. In such a magnetic head 114a, leakage current can also be suppressed.

[0068] Figure 7 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0069] like Figure 7 As shown, in the magnetic head 114b involved in the embodiment, the composition of the first magnetic layer 11 is different from that in the magnetic head 114. The composition of the magnetic head 114b other than this can be the same as that of the magnetic head 114. In the magnetic head 114b, the first magnetic layer 11 protrudes with the side surface of the first intermediate layer 61 and the side surface of the second intermediate layer 62 as a reference. In the magnetic head 114b, the length of the first magnetic layer 11 along the third direction D3 is substantially constant. In such a magnetic head 114b, leakage current can also be suppressed.

[0070] Figure 8 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0071] like Figure 8 As shown, in the magnetic head 115 according to the embodiment, the structure of the intermediate layer is different from the structure of the intermediate layer of the magnetic head 110. The structure of the magnetic head 115 other than this may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110.

[0072] like Figure 8 As shown, in the magnetic head 115, the first intermediate layer 61 includes a first metal layer 61m and a first compound layer 61c. The first compound layer 61c is provided between the first metal layer 61m and the first magnetic layer 11. The first compound layer 61c, for example, includes at least one selected from MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO and HfN. The first metal layer 61m includes a metal. It is easy to obtain a current path with an appropriate resistance in such a first intermediate layer 61. For example, leakage current can be more effectively suppressed.

[0073] The second intermediate layer 62 includes a second metal layer 62m and a second compound layer 62c. The second compound layer 62c is provided between the first magnetic layer 11 and the second metal layer 62m. The second compound layer 62c, for example, includes at least one selected from MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO, and HfN. The second metal layer 62m includes a metal. In such a second intermediate layer 62, it is easy to obtain a current path with an appropriate resistance. For example, leakage current can be more effectively suppressed.

[0074] The third intermediate layer 63 may include a third metal layer 63m and a third compound layer 63c. The third compound layer 63c is provided between the third metal layer 63m and the first magnetic layer 11. The third compound layer 63c, for example, includes at least one selected from MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO and HfN. The third metal layer 63m includes a metal. In such a third intermediate layer 63, it is easy to obtain a current path with an appropriate resistance. For example, leakage current can be more effectively suppressed.

[0075] The fourth intermediate layer 64 includes a fourth metal layer 64m and a fourth compound layer 64c. The fourth compound layer 64c is provided between the first magnetic layer 11 and the fourth metal layer 64m. The fourth compound layer 64c, for example, includes at least one selected from MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO and HfN. The fourth metal layer 64m includes a metal. In such a third intermediate layer 63, it is easy to obtain a current path with an appropriate resistance. For example, leakage current can be more effectively suppressed.

[0076] At least one of the first metal layer 61m, the second metal layer 62m, the third metal layer 63m, and the fourth metal layer 64m includes, for example, at least one selected from Cu, Au, Ag, Pt, Al, Pd, Ta, Ru, Hf, W, Mo, Ir, Cr, Tb, and Rh, which can suppress the influence of spin.

[0077] The resistivity of the first compound layer 61c is preferably more than 1 times and less than 5 times the resistivity of the first magnetic layer 11. When the resistivity of the first compound layer 61c exceeds 1 times the resistivity of the first magnetic layer 11, a high shunt suppression effect can be obtained. When the resistivity of the first compound layer 61c is more than 5 times the resistivity of the first magnetic layer 11, for example, noise increases and the SN ratio is likely to decrease.

[0078] Fig. 9 It is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the magnetic head according to the first embodiment.

[0079] like Fig. 9 As shown, in the magnetic head 116 according to the embodiment, the connection relationship of the circuit is different from the configuration of the magnetic head 110. The configuration of the magnetic head 116 other than this may be the same as the configuration of the magnetic head 110.

[0080] In the magnetic head 116, the first circuit 75a is electrically connected to the third terminal 53 and the fourth terminal 54. The second circuit 75b is electrically connected to the first terminal 51 and the second terminal 52. In the magnetic head 116, the voltage between the third terminal 53 and the fourth terminal 54 when the current flows between the first terminal 51 and the second terminal 52 can be changed according to the detection object magnetic field Hx. The leakage current can also be suppressed in the magnetic head 116. A magnetic head that can improve the characteristics can be provided.

[0081] (Second embodiment)

[0082] Fig.10 It is a schematic perspective view illustrating a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device according to a second embodiment.

[0083] like Fig.10 As shown, the magnetic head 110 according to the embodiment includes a reproducing unit 70. The magnetic head 110 is used together with a magnetic recording medium 80. In this example, the magnetic head 110 includes a recording unit 90. Information is recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 by the recording unit 90 of the magnetic head 110. Information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 is reproduced by the reproducing unit 70.

[0084] The magnetic recording medium 80 includes, for example, a medium substrate 82 and a magnetic recording layer 81 disposed on the medium substrate 82. The magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81 is controlled by a recording unit 90. The recording unit 90 includes, for example, a first magnetic pole 91 and a second magnetic pole 92. The first magnetic pole 91 is, for example, a main magnetic pole. The second magnetic pole 92 is, for example, a trailing shield. The recording unit 90 may also include a recording unit element 93. The recording unit element 93 may include a magnetic field control element or a high-frequency oscillation element, etc. The recording unit element 93 may also be omitted.

[0085] The reproduction unit 70 includes, for example, a first shield 41, a second shield 42, and a first magnetic layer 11. Fig.10 In the embodiment of the present invention, the third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44 are omitted. The reproducing unit 70 can output a signal corresponding to the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81 .

[0086] like Fig.10 As shown, the magnetic recording medium 80 moves relative to the magnetic head 110 in the medium moving direction 85. The magnetic head 110 controls information corresponding to the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81 at an arbitrary position. The magnetic head 110 reproduces information corresponding to the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81 at an arbitrary position.

[0087] The X-axis direction corresponds to, for example, a down track direction, the Y-axis direction corresponds to, for example, a cross track direction, and the Z-axis direction corresponds to, for example, a height direction.

[0088] Fig.11 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment.

[0089] Fig.11 A head slider is illustrated.

[0090] The magnetic head 110 is provided on a head slider 159. The head slider 159 is made of, for example, Al2O3 / TiC, etc. The head slider 159 moves relative to the magnetic recording medium while floating on or contacting the magnetic recording medium.

[0091] The head slider 159 has, for example, an air inlet side 159A and an air outlet side 159B. The magnetic head 110 is disposed on the side of the air outlet side 159B of the head slider 159. Thus, the magnetic head 110 moves relative to the magnetic recording medium while floating above or in contact with the magnetic recording medium.

[0092] Fig.12 It is a schematic perspective view illustrating a magnetic recording device according to an embodiment.

[0093] Fig.13 (a) and Fig.13 (b) is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of the magnetic recording device according to the embodiment.

[0094] The magnetic recording device may be a magnetic recording and reproducing device. Fig.12 As shown, a rotary actuator is used in the magnetic recording device 150 involved in the embodiment. The recording medium disk 180 is assembled on the spindle motor 180M. The recording medium disk 180 rotates in the direction of the arrow AR through the spindle motor 180M. The spindle motor 180M responds to the control signal from the drive device control unit. The magnetic recording device 150 involved in this embodiment may also include a plurality of recording medium disks 180. The magnetic recording device 150 may also include a recording medium 181. The recording medium 181 is, for example, an SSD (Solid State Drive). For the recording medium 181, for example, a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory is used. For example, the magnetic recording device 150 may also be a hybrid HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0095] The head slider 159 records and reproduces information recorded on the recording medium disk 180. The head slider 159 is provided at the front end of the thin film suspension 154. The magnetic head according to the embodiment is provided near the front end of the head slider 159.

[0096] When the recording medium disk 180 rotates, the pressing pressure by the suspension 154 is balanced with the pressure generated on the medium facing surface (ABS) of the head slider 159. The distance between the medium facing surface of the head slider 159 and the surface of the recording medium disk 180 becomes a predetermined floating amount. In the embodiment, the head slider 159 may also contact the recording medium disk 180. For example, a contact movement type may also be applied.

[0097] The suspension 154 is connected to one end of an arm 155 (e.g., an actuator arm). The arm 155 has, for example, a bobbin portion, etc. The bobbin portion holds a drive coil. A voice coil motor 156 is provided at the other end of the arm 155. The voice coil motor 156 is a type of linear motor. The voice coil motor 156 includes, for example, a drive coil and a magnetic circuit. The drive coil is wound around the bobbin portion of the arm 155. The magnetic circuit includes a permanent magnet and an opposing yoke. A drive coil is provided between the permanent magnet and the opposing yoke. The suspension 154 has one end and the other end. The magnetic head is provided at one end of the suspension 154. The arm 155 is connected to the other end of the suspension 154.

[0098] The arm 155 is held by a ball bearing. The ball bearings are provided at two locations, upper and lower, of the bearing portion 157. The arm 155 can be rotated and slid by the voice coil motor 156. The magnetic head can be moved to any position of the recording medium disk 180.

[0099] Fig.13 (a) illustrates a partial configuration of the magnetic recording device and is an enlarged perspective view of the head stack assembly 160 .

[0100] Fig.13 (b) is a perspective view illustrating a magnetic head assembly (head gimbal assembly: HGA) 158 which is a part of the head stack assembly 160 .

[0101] like Fig.13 As shown in (a), the head stack assembly 160 includes a bearing portion 157, a head gimbal assembly 158, and a support frame 161. The head gimbal assembly 158 extends from the bearing portion 157. The support frame 161 extends from the bearing portion 157. The direction in which the support frame 161 extends is opposite to the direction in which the head gimbal assembly 158 extends. The support frame 161 supports the coil 162 of the voice coil motor 156.

[0102] like Fig.13 As shown in FIG. 1 ( b ), the head gimbal assembly 158 has an arm 155 extending from a bearing portion 157 and a suspension 154 extending from the arm 155 .

[0103] A head slider 159 is provided at the front end of the suspension 154. The head slider 159 is provided with the magnetic head according to the embodiment.

[0104] The head assembly (head gimbal assembly) 158 according to the embodiment includes the magnetic head according to the embodiment, a head slider 159 provided with the magnetic head, a suspension 154, and an arm 155. The head slider 159 is provided at one end of the suspension 154. The arm 155 is connected to the other end of the suspension 154.

[0105] The suspension 154 may include, for example, leads (not shown) for recording and reproducing signals. The suspension 154 may also include, for example, leads (not shown) for a heater for adjusting the floating amount. The suspension 154 may also include, for example, leads (not shown) for an oscillating element, etc. These leads are electrically connected to a plurality of electrodes provided on the magnetic head.

[0106] The magnetic recording device 150 is provided with a signal processing unit 190. The signal processing unit 190 uses a magnetic head to record and reproduce signals on a magnetic recording medium. The input and output lines of the signal processing unit 190 are connected to electrode pads of the head gimbal assembly 158, for example, and are electrically connected to the magnetic head.

[0107] The magnetic recording device 150 according to the embodiment includes a magnetic recording medium, a magnetic head according to the embodiment, a movable part, a position control part, and a signal processing part. The movable part is configured to enable the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic head to move relatively in a separated or contacted state. The position control part positions the magnetic head at a predetermined recording position of the magnetic recording medium. The signal processing part performs recording and reproduction of signals to the magnetic recording medium using the magnetic head.

[0108] For example, as the magnetic recording medium, a recording medium disk 180 is used. The movable portion includes, for example, a head slider 159. The position control portion includes, for example, a head gimbal assembly 158.

[0109] The implementation method may include the following technical solutions.

[0110] (Technical Solution 1)

[0111] A magnetic head includes a reproducing unit, wherein the reproducing unit includes:

[0112] A first shielding member;

[0113] A second shielding member;

[0114] 3rd shielding member;

[0115] a fourth shielding member, wherein a second direction from the third shielding member to the fourth shielding member intersects a first direction from the first shielding member to the second shielding member;

[0116] a first magnetic layer disposed between the first shield and the second shield, and between the third shield and the fourth shield;

[0117] a non-magnetic first intermediate layer disposed between the first shield and the first magnetic layer; and

[0118] a non-magnetic second intermediate layer disposed between the first magnetic layer and the second shielding member,

[0119] A second intermediate layer length of the second intermediate layer along the second direction is shorter than a first intermediate layer length of the first intermediate layer along the second direction.

[0120] (Technical Solution 2)

[0121] According to the magnetic head described in technical solution 1,

[0122] A first magnetic layer length of the first magnetic layer along the second direction is between the first intermediate layer length and the second intermediate layer length.

[0123] (Technical Solution 3)

[0124] According to the magnetic head described in technical solution 1 or 2,

[0125] The reproduction unit further includes:

[0126] a non-magnetic third intermediate layer disposed between the third shield and the first magnetic layer; and

[0127] a non-magnetic fourth intermediate layer disposed between the first magnetic layer and the fourth shielding member,

[0128] A third intermediate layer length of the third intermediate layer along the first direction is shorter than a first magnetic layer thickness of the first magnetic layer along the first direction.

[0129] A fourth intermediate layer length of the fourth intermediate layer along the first direction is shorter than a thickness of the first magnetic layer.

[0130] (Technical Solution 4)

[0131] According to the magnetic head described in technical solution 3,

[0132] The reproducing unit further includes a first insulating member,

[0133] The first insulating member includes a first insulating region and a second insulating region,

[0134] A portion of the first insulating region is provided between a portion of the third shield and a portion of the first magnetic layer.

[0135] A portion of the second insulating region is provided between the portion of the first magnetic layer and a portion of the fourth shield.

[0136] (Technical Solution 5)

[0137] According to the magnetic head described in technical solution 4,

[0138] Another portion of the first insulating region is disposed between the first shield and the third shield.

[0139] Another portion of the second insulating region is provided between the first shield and the fourth shield.

[0140] (Technical Solution 6)

[0141] According to the magnetic head described in technical solution 4 or 5,

[0142] The first insulating member further includes a third insulating region and a fourth insulating region,

[0143] A portion of the third insulating region is provided between a portion of the first magnetic layer and the second shield.

[0144] A portion of the fourth insulating region is provided between another portion of the first magnetic layer and the second shield.

[0145] (Technical Solution 7)

[0146] According to the magnetic head described in technical solution 6,

[0147] Another part of the third insulating region is disposed between the third shielding member and the second shielding member.

[0148] Another portion of the fourth insulating region is provided between the fourth shield and the second shield.

[0149] (Technical Solution 8)

[0150] According to the magnetic head described in technical solution 6 or 7,

[0151] The portion of the third insulating region is provided between the third shield and the first magnetic layer in the second direction.

[0152] The portion of the fourth insulating region is provided between the first magnetic layer and the fourth shield in the second direction.

[0153] (Technical Solution 9)

[0154] According to the magnetic head described in any one of technical solutions 3 to 8,

[0155] The first magnetic layer includes a first side surface facing the third intermediate layer,

[0156] The first side surface is inclined with respect to the first direction.

[0157] (Technical Solution 10)

[0158] According to the magnetic head described in any one of technical solutions 1 to 7,

[0159] At least a portion of the first intermediate layer is provided between the third shield and the fourth shield in the second direction.

[0160] (Technical Solution 11)

[0161] The magnetic head according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 10,

[0162] The length of the second intermediate layer along the third direction is shorter than the length of the first intermediate layer along the third direction.

[0163] The third direction intersects a plane including the first direction and the second direction.

[0164] (Technical Solution 12)

[0165] According to the magnetic head described in technical solution 11,

[0166] A length of the first magnetic layer along the third direction is between the length of the second intermediate layer along the third direction and the length of the first intermediate layer along the third direction.

[0167] (Technical Solution 13)

[0168] The magnetic head according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 12,

[0169] The first intermediate layer includes a first metal layer and a first compound layer,

[0170] The first compound layer is provided between the first metal layer and the first magnetic layer.

[0171] The first compound layer includes at least one selected from MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO and HfN.

[0172] (Technical Solution 14)

[0173] The magnetic head according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 13,

[0174] The second intermediate layer includes a second metal layer and a second compound layer,

[0175] The second compound layer is provided between the first magnetic layer and the second metal layer.

[0176] The second compound layer includes at least one selected from MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO and HfN.

[0177] (Technical Solution 15)

[0178] According to the magnetic head described in any one of technical solutions 3 to 9,

[0179] The third intermediate layer includes a third metal layer and a third compound layer,

[0180] The third compound layer is provided between the third metal layer and the first magnetic layer.

[0181] The third compound layer comprises at least one selected from MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO and HfN,

[0182] The fourth intermediate layer includes a fourth metal layer and a fourth compound layer,

[0183] The fourth compound layer is provided between the first magnetic layer and the fourth metal layer.

[0184] The fourth compound layer includes at least one selected from MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO and HfN.

[0185] (Technical Solution 16)

[0186] According to the magnetic head described in any one of technical solutions 1 to 15,

[0187] The reproduction unit further includes:

[0188] a first terminal electrically connected to the first shielding member;

[0189] a second terminal electrically connected to the second shielding member;

[0190] a third terminal electrically connected to the third shielding member; and

[0191] A fourth terminal is electrically connected to the fourth shield.

[0192] (Technical Solution 17)

[0193] According to the magnetic head described in technical solution 16,

[0194] When a current flows between the third terminal and the fourth terminal, a voltage between the first terminal and the second terminal can be changed according to a magnetic field to be detected.

[0195] (Technical Solution 18)

[0196] According to the magnetic head described in technical solution 16,

[0197] When a current flows between the first terminal and the second terminal, a voltage between the third terminal and the fourth terminal can be changed according to a magnetic field to be detected.

[0198] (Technical Solution 19)

[0199] The magnetic head according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 18,

[0200] The first magnetic layer includes at least one selected from Co2MnGa, CoMnAl, and FePt.

[0201] (Technical Solution 20)

[0202] A magnetic recording device comprising:

[0203] The magnetic head according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 19; and

[0204] Magnetic recording media,

[0205] The reproducing unit can reproduce the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium.

[0206] According to the embodiment, it is possible to provide a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device with improved characteristics.

[0207] In the present application specification, “perpendicular” and “parallel” include not only strict perpendicularity and strict parallelism, but also include, for example, deviations in the manufacturing process, as long as they are substantially perpendicular or substantially parallel.

[0208] The embodiments of the present invention are described above with reference to specific examples. However, the present invention is not limited to these specific examples. For example, the specific configuration of each element such as a shield, a magnetic layer, an intermediate layer, and a terminal included in a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device is included in the scope of the present invention as long as a person skilled in the art can implement the present invention in the same manner and obtain the same effect by appropriately selecting from the known range.

[0209] Any combination of two or more elements in each specific example within a technically possible range is also included in the scope of the present invention as long as it includes the gist of the present invention.

[0210] In addition, all magnetic heads and magnetic recording devices that can be implemented by those skilled in the art by appropriately changing the design based on the magnetic heads and magnetic recording devices described above as embodiments of the present invention also belong to the scope of the present invention as long as they include the gist of the present invention.

[0211] Furthermore, those skilled in the art can conceive of various changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention, and it should be understood that these changes and modifications also belong to the scope of the present invention.

[0212] Several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are provided as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and / or their variations are included in the scope and purpose of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the scope of their equivalents.

Claims

1. A magnetic head comprising a reproducing unit, The reproduction section comprises: A first shielding member; A second shielding member; 3rd shielding member; a fourth shielding member, wherein a second direction from the third shielding member toward the fourth shielding member intersects a first direction from the first shielding member toward the second shielding member; a first magnetic layer disposed between the first shield and the second shield, and between the third shield and the fourth shield; a non-magnetic first intermediate layer disposed between the first shield and the first magnetic layer; and a non-magnetic second intermediate layer disposed between the first magnetic layer and the second shielding member, A second intermediate layer length of the second intermediate layer along the second direction is shorter than a first intermediate layer length of the first intermediate layer along the second direction.

2. The magnetic head according to claim 1, A first magnetic layer length of the first magnetic layer along the second direction is between the first intermediate layer length and the second intermediate layer length.

3. The magnetic head according to claim 1, The reproduction unit further includes: a non-magnetic third intermediate layer disposed between the third shielding member and the first magnetic layer; and a non-magnetic fourth intermediate layer disposed between the first magnetic layer and the fourth shielding member, A third intermediate layer length of the third intermediate layer along the first direction is shorter than a first magnetic layer thickness of the first magnetic layer along the first direction. A fourth intermediate layer length of the fourth intermediate layer along the first direction is shorter than a thickness of the first magnetic layer.

4. The magnetic head according to claim 3, The reproducing unit further includes a first insulating member, The first insulating member includes a first insulating region and a second insulating region, A portion of the first insulating region is provided between a portion of the third shield and a portion of the first magnetic layer. A portion of the second insulating region is provided between the portion of the first magnetic layer and a portion of the fourth shield.

5. The magnetic head according to claim 4, The first insulating member further includes a third insulating region and a fourth insulating region, A portion of the third insulating region is provided between a portion of the first magnetic layer and the second shield. A portion of the fourth insulating region is provided between another portion of the first magnetic layer and the second shield.

6. The magnetic head according to claim 1, The length of the second intermediate layer along the third direction is shorter than the length of the first intermediate layer along the third direction. The third direction intersects a plane including the first direction and the second direction.

7. The magnetic head according to claim 1, The first intermediate layer includes a first metal layer and a first compound layer, The first compound layer is provided between the first metal layer and the first magnetic layer. The first compound layer includes at least one selected from MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO and HfN.

8. The magnetic head according to claim 1, The reproduction unit further includes: a first terminal electrically connected to the first shielding member; a second terminal electrically connected to the second shielding member; a third terminal electrically connected to the third shielding member; and A fourth terminal is electrically connected to the fourth shield.

9. The magnetic head according to claim 8, When a current flows between the third terminal and the fourth terminal, a voltage between the first terminal and the second terminal can be changed according to a magnetic field to be detected.

10. A magnetic recording device comprising: The magnetic head according to claim 1; and Magnetic recording media, The reproducing unit can reproduce the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium.

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