Magnetic head and magnetic recording device

Abstract

To provide a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device that can improve performance. [Solution] According to the embodiment, the magnetic head includes a regeneration section. The regeneration section includes first and second shields, a first non-magnetic layer, first to fourth magnetic layers, and a first intermediate layer. The first non-magnetic layer includes first and second partial regions. The direction from the first partial region to the second partial region intersects with the direction from the first shield to the second shield. The first partial region is located between the first and second shields. The first magnetic layer is located between the first shield and the first partial region. The second magnetic layer is located between the first partial region and the second shield. The fourth magnetic layer is located between the second partial region and the third magnetic layer. The first intermediate layer is provided between the third and fourth magnetic layers and is non-magnetic.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device. [Background technology]

[0002] Information recorded on a magnetic recording medium is reproduced using a magnetic head containing a magnetic layer. Improvements in the characteristics of magnetic sensors are desired. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-26741 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] Embodiments of the present invention provide a magnetic head capable of improving performance and a magnetic recording device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to the embodiment, the magnetic head includes a regeneration section. The regeneration section includes a first shield, a second shield, a first non-magnetic layer, a first magnetic layer, a second magnetic layer, a third magnetic layer, a fourth magnetic layer, and a first intermediate layer. The first non-magnetic layer includes a first partial region and a second partial region. The second direction from the first partial region to the second partial region intersects the first direction from the first shield to the second shield. The first partial region is provided between the first shield and the second shield in the first direction. The first magnetic layer is provided between the first shield and the first partial region in the first direction. The second magnetic layer is provided between the first partial region and the second shield in the first direction. The fourth magnetic layer is provided between the second partial region and the third magnetic layer. The first intermediate layer is provided between the third magnetic layer and the fourth magnetic layer and is non-magnetic. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] Figures 1(a) and 1(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic transparent plan view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic transparent plan view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a magnetic head and magnetic recording device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of a magnetic recording apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a magnetic recording device according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] Figures 11(a) and 11(b) are schematic perspective views illustrating a part of a magnetic recording apparatus according to an embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] The embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Drawings are schematic or conceptual, and the relationships between the thickness and width of each part, as well as the ratios of the sizes of different parts, are not necessarily identical to those of reality. Even when representing the same part, the dimensions and ratios may be depicted differently in different drawings. In the present specification and each figure, elements that are the same as those described above with respect to the previously presented figures are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted as appropriate.

[0008] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1(a) and FIG. 1(b) are schematic diagrams illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic transmission plan view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. FIG. 1(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A1 - A2 of FIG. 1(b). FIG. 1(b) is a plan view seen along arrow AR1 of FIG. 1(a). As shown in FIGS. 1(a), 1(b) and FIG. 2, the magnetic head 110 according to the embodiment includes a reproducing section 70. The reproducing section 70 includes a first shield 41, a second shield 42, a first non-magnetic layer 11, a first magnetic layer 21, a second magnetic layer 22, a third magnetic layer 23, a fourth magnetic layer 24 and a first intermediate layer 31n.

[0009] The first non-magnetic layer 11 includes a first partial region 11a and a second partial region 11b. The second direction D2 from the first partial region 11a to the second partial region 11b intersects the first direction D1 from the first shield 41 to the second shield 42.

[0010] Let the first direction D1 be the X-axis direction. One direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction is the Z-axis direction. A direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction is the Y-axis direction. The second direction D2 may be, for example, the Z-axis direction.

[0011] The first partial region 11a is provided between the first shield 41 and the second shield 42 in the first direction D1. The first non-magnetic layer 11 may include, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of Al, Cu, and Au.

[0012] The first magnetic layer 21 is provided between the first shield 41 and the first partial region 11a in the first direction D1. The second magnetic layer 22 is provided between the first partial region 11a and the second shield 42 in the first direction D1.

[0013] The fourth magnetic layer 24 is provided between the second partial region 11b and the third magnetic layer 23. The first intermediate layer 31n is provided between the third magnetic layer 23 and the fourth magnetic layer 24. The first intermediate layer 31n is non-magnetic. In this example, the direction from the second partial region 11b to the third magnetic layer 23 is along the first direction D1.

[0014] As shown in Figure 1(a), the first shield 41 includes a first surface 41F. The first surface 41F is configured to face the magnetic recording medium 80. The first surface 41F corresponds to the media-facing surface.

[0015] The Z-axis direction corresponds, for example, to the height direction. The X-axis direction follows, for example, the down-track direction. The Y-axis direction follows, for example, the cross-track direction.

[0016] As shown in Figure 1(a), the regeneration unit 70 may include a first terminal T1, a second terminal T2, a third terminal T3, and a fourth terminal T4. The first terminal T1 is electrically connected to the first shield 41. The second terminal T2 is electrically connected to the second shield 42. The third terminal T3 is electrically connected to the third magnetic layer 23. The fourth terminal T4 is electrically connected to the fourth magnetic layer 24.

[0017] For example, a first current i1 is supplied between the first terminal T1 and the second terminal T2. In this state, the first signal Sg1 between the third terminal T3 and the fourth terminal T4 is configured to change according to the state of the magnetic recording medium 80. The first signal Sg1 changes according to the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80. By detecting the first signal Sg1, the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80 can be reproduced.

[0018] In this embodiment, the first magnetic layer 21 and the second magnetic layer 22 correspond to the magnetic recording medium 80. The magnetization of the first magnetic layer 21 and the second magnetic layer 22 changes in response to the magnetic field from the magnetic recording medium 80. The first magnetic layer 21 and the second magnetic layer 22 operate differentially.

[0019] For example, the magnetic recording medium 80 may be a vertical recording medium. For example, when the magnetization direction of the magnetic recording medium 80 changes, the magnetization of the first magnetic layer 21 and the second magnetic layer 22 changes, and this change affects the magnetization of the fourth magnetic layer 24. As a result, the first signal Sg1 changes. The change in the first signal Sg1 is thought to correspond to the change in the angle between the magnetization of the fourth magnetic layer 24 and the magnetization of the third magnetic layer 23. The third magnetic layer 23 functions, for example, as a reference layer.

[0020] In this embodiment, the state of the magnetic recording medium 80 can be detected with high sensitivity by the first signal Sg1. A magnetic head capable of improving performance is provided.

[0021] For example, in the magnetization transition region of the magnetic recording medium 80, the upward magnetization region is adjacent to the downward magnetization region. In the magnetization transition region of the magnetic recording medium 80, the magnetization of the first magnetic layer 21 is upward and the magnetization of the second magnetic layer 22 is downward. In this state, the first current i1 is supplied. As a result, upward transmitted spins corresponding to the upward magnetization of the first magnetic layer 21 are injected into the first partial region 11a of the first non-magnetic layer 11. Furthermore, upward reflected spins corresponding to the downward magnetization of the second magnetic layer 22 are injected into the first partial region 11a of the first non-magnetic layer 11. These injected spins (spin currents) are diffused into the second partial region 11b and act on the fourth magnetic layer 24. As a result, the magnetization of the fourth magnetic layer 24 is thought to change.

[0022] For example, in the magnetic recording medium 80, there are a first magnetization transition region and a second magnetization transition region. In the first magnetization transition region, the magnetization of the magnetic recording medium 80 transitions from a downward region to an upward region. In the second magnetization transition region, the magnetization of the magnetic recording medium 80 transitions from an upward region to a downward region. The direction of the spin current injected in the first magnetization transition region is different from the direction of the spin current injected in the second magnetization transition region. Depending on the direction of the injected spin, the effect on the magnetization of the fourth magnetic layer 24 changes. As a result, the electrical resistance between the fourth magnetic layer 24 and the third magnetic layer 23 changes.

[0023] In the magnetization continuity region of the magnetic recording medium 80, downward or upward magnetization persists. In the magnetization continuity region, the direction of magnetization of the first magnetic layer 21 is the same as the direction of magnetization of the second magnetic layer 22. When the first current i1 is supplied in the magnetization continuity region, spins in opposite directions are injected into the first sub-region 11a of the first non-magnetic layer 11, and no effect occurs on the magnetization of the fourth magnetic layer 24.

[0024] In this embodiment, as described above, the electrical resistance in the magnetization transition region of the magnetic recording medium 80 changes depending on the magnetization state of the first magnetic layer 21 and the second magnetic layer 22. Differential operation is applied in the magnetization transition region. This results in high sensitivity and high resolution.

[0025] As shown in Figure 1(a), in this example, at least a portion of the fourth magnetic layer 24 overlaps with the second magnetic layer 22 in the second direction D2. As will be described later, at least a portion of the fourth magnetic layer 24 may also overlap with the first magnetic layer 21 in the second direction D2.

[0026] As shown in Figure 1(a), in this example, at least a portion of the third magnetic layer 23 overlaps with the second shield 42 in the second direction D2. As will be described later, at least a portion of the third magnetic layer 23 may also overlap with the first shield 41 in the second direction D2.

[0027] As shown in Figures 1(b) and 2, the regeneration unit 70 may further include a third shield 43 and a fourth shield 44. The third direction D3 from the third shield 43 to the fourth shield 44 intersects a plane containing the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The third direction D3 is, for example, the Y-axis direction.

[0028] The first magnetic layer 21, the first partial region 11a, and the second magnetic layer 22 may be provided between the third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44 in the third direction D3. The third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44 correspond to, for example, side shields.

[0029] As shown in Figure 2, in this example, a portion of the second sub-region 11b overlaps with the third shield 43 in the second direction D2. Another portion of the second sub-region 11b overlaps with the fourth shield 44 in the second direction D2.

[0030] A portion of the third magnetic layer 23 and a portion of the fourth magnetic layer 24 may overlap with the third shield 43 in the second direction D2. Another portion of the third magnetic layer 23 and another portion of the fourth magnetic layer 24 may overlap with the fourth shield 44 in the second direction D2.

[0031] This configuration allows for larger areas in the second sub-region 11b, the third magnetic layer 23, and the fourth magnetic layer 24, resulting in higher sensitivity.

[0032] As shown in Figure 1(b), the third shield magnetization 43M of the third shield 43 may be aligned with the direction from the third shield 43 to the fourth shield 44. The fourth shield magnetization 44M of the fourth shield 44 may be aligned with the direction from the third shield 43 to the fourth shield 44.

[0033] As shown in Figure 1(b), the first shield magnetization 41M of the first shield 41 may be aligned with the direction from the third shield 43 to the fourth shield 44. The second shield magnetization 42M of the second shield 42 may be aligned with the direction from the third shield 43 to the fourth shield 44.

[0034] In the embodiment, the first intermediate layer 31n may contain MgO or Cu. For example, the fourth magnetic layer 24, the first intermediate layer 31n, and the third magnetic layer 23 may function as a TMR element. For example, the fourth magnetic layer 24, the first intermediate layer 31n, and the third magnetic layer 23 may function as a GMR element.

[0035] In the embodiment, at least one of the first magnetic layer 21 and the second magnetic layer 22 may contain a Heusler alloy. Higher sensitivity is easily obtained. At least one of the first magnetic layer 21 and the second magnetic layer 22 may be, for example, Co2MnAl, Co2MnSi, Co2MnGa, Co2MnGe, Co2Mn(Ge0.5 Ga 0.5 ), Co2Fe(Ge 0.5 Ga 0.5 It may include at least one selected from the group consisting of ) and CoFeMnSi. Higher sensitivity is easily obtained.

[0036] As shown in Figure 1(a), the regeneration section 70 may further include a first interlayer 41n. The first interlayer 41n is provided between the first shield 41 and the first magnetic layer 21 and is non-magnetic. The provision of the first interlayer 41n disrupts the magnetic coupling between the first shield 41 and the first magnetic layer 21. For example, a good quality crystal structure can be easily obtained in the first magnetic layer 21.

[0037] The regeneration section 70 may further include a second interlayer 42n. The second interlayer 42n is provided between the second shield 42 and the second magnetic layer 22 and is non-magnetic. The provision of the second interlayer 42n disrupts the magnetic coupling between the second shield 42 and the second magnetic layer 22. For example, a good quality crystal structure can be easily obtained in the second magnetic layer 22.

[0038] As shown in Figures 1(a), 1(b), and 2, the regeneration section 70 may include an insulating member 30i. The insulating member 30i may be provided, for example, between a part of the first non-magnetic layer 11 and the first shield 41, and between a part of the first non-magnetic layer 11 and the second shield 42. The insulating member 30i may be provided, for example, between the second magnetic layer 22 and the fourth magnetic layer 24.

[0039] As shown in Figure 1(b), a portion of the insulating member 30i may be provided between the first shield 41 and the third shield 43. A portion of the insulating member 30i may be provided between the first shield 41 and the fourth shield 44.

[0040] In the magnetic head 110, the third magnetic layer 23 may include, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Co, and Ni. The third magnetic layer 23 may further include B. The third magnetic layer 23 is, for example, a ferromagnetic layer.

[0041] The regeneration section 70 may further include an antiferromagnetic layer (not shown). The antiferromagnetic layer is connected to the third magnetic layer 23. The presence of the antiferromagnetic layer may, for example, impart unidirectional anisotropy to the third magnetic layer 23. The antiferromagnetic layer may include, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of IrMn and PtMn.

[0042] The fourth magnetic layer 24 may contain, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Co, and Ni. The fourth magnetic layer 24 may further contain B. The fourth magnetic layer 24 may contain Heusler alloy. The fourth magnetic layer 24 may contain Co2MnAl, Co2MnSi, Co2MnGa, Co2MnGe, Co2Mn(Ge 0.5 Ga 0.5 ), Co2Fe(Ge 0.5 Ga 0.5 ) and may include at least one selected from the group consisting of CoFeMnSi. The fourth magnetic layer 24 is, for example, a ferromagnetic layer.

[0043] As shown in Figure 1(a), a first circuit 75a and a second circuit 75b may be provided. The first circuit 75a is electrically connected to the first terminal T1 and the second terminal T2. The first circuit 75a is configured to supply a first current i1 between the first terminal T1 and the second terminal T2. The second circuit 75b is electrically connected to the third terminal T3 and the fourth terminal T4. The second circuit 75b is configured to detect a first signal Sg1 between the third terminal T3 and the fourth terminal T4.

[0044] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the line A1-A2 in Figure 1(b). As shown in Figure 3, in the magnetic head 111 according to this embodiment, the positions of the third magnetic layer 23 and the fourth magnetic layer 24 are different from those in the magnetic head 110. The configuration of the magnetic head 111, apart from this, may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110.

[0045] In the magnetic head 111, at least a portion of the fourth magnetic layer 24 overlaps with the first magnetic layer 21 in the second direction D2. At least a portion of the third magnetic layer 23 overlaps with the first shield 41 in the second direction D2. High-sensitivity detection is possible even with the magnetic head 111. High resolution can be obtained. A magnetic head with improved characteristics is provided.

[0046] Figure 4 is a schematic transparent plan view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, in the magnetic head 112 according to this embodiment, the configuration of the first non-magnetic layer 11 is different from that of the magnetic head 110. The configuration of the magnetic head 112, excluding this, may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110.

[0047] As shown in Figure 4, in the magnetic head 112, at least a portion of the second partial region 11b is located between the third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44. At least a portion of the third magnetic layer 23 may also be located between the third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44. At least a portion of the fourth magnetic layer 24 may also be located between the third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44. For example, a high shielding effect is easily obtained. Stable operation is easily obtained.

[0048] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the line A1-A2 in Figure 1(b). As shown in Figure 5, in the magnetic head 113 according to this embodiment, the regeneration unit 70 further includes a fifth magnetic layer 25 and the like. The configuration of the magnetic head 113, excluding this, may be the same as the configuration of the magnetic head 110.

[0049] In the magnetic head 113, the playback section 70 further includes a fifth magnetic layer 25, a sixth magnetic layer 26, and a non-magnetic second intermediate layer 32n. The second partial region 11b is located between the fifth magnetic layer 25 and the third magnetic layer 23. The sixth magnetic layer 26 is located between the fifth magnetic layer 25 and the second partial region 11b. The second intermediate layer 32n is located between the fifth magnetic layer 25 and the sixth magnetic layer 26.

[0050] The regeneration unit 70 may include a first terminal T1, a second terminal T2, a third terminal T3, and a fourth terminal T4. The first terminal T1 is electrically connected to the first shield 41. The second terminal T2 is electrically connected to the second shield 42. The third terminal T3 is electrically connected to the third magnetic layer 23. The fourth terminal T4 is electrically connected to the fifth magnetic layer 25.

[0051] As already explained, the first shield 41 includes a first surface 41F configured to face the magnetic recording medium 80. The first signal Sg1 between the third terminal T3 and the fourth terminal T4 when a first current i1 flows between the first terminal T1 and the second terminal T2 is configured to change according to the state of the magnetic recording medium 80.

[0052] The magnetic head 110 is provided with a first laminate including a third magnetic layer 23, a first intermediate layer 31n, and a fourth magnetic layer 24, and a second laminate including a fifth magnetic layer 25, a second intermediate layer 32n, and a sixth magnetic layer 26. These laminates provide a first signal Sg1 of higher intensity, higher sensitivity, and a higher signal-to-noise ratio.

[0053] In the magnetic head 110, a first circuit 75a and a second circuit 75b may be provided. The first circuit 75a is electrically connected to a first terminal T1 and a second terminal T2. The first circuit 75a is configured to supply a first current i1 between the first terminal T1 and the second terminal T2. The second circuit 75b is electrically connected to a third terminal T3 and a fourth terminal T4. The second circuit 75b is configured to detect a first signal Sg1 between the third terminal T3 and the fourth terminal T4.

[0054] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the line A1-A2 in Figure 1(b). As shown in Figure 6, in the magnetic head 114 according to this embodiment, the configuration of the fourth magnetic layer 24 is different from that of the magnetic head 110. The configuration of the magnetic head 114, apart from this, may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110.

[0055] As shown in Figure 6, the fourth magnetic layer 24 may include a first magnetic film 24a, a second magnetic film 24b, and a first non-magnetic film 24c. The second magnetic film 24b is provided between the first magnetic film 24a and the second partial region 11b. The first non-magnetic film 24c is provided between the first magnetic film 24a and the second magnetic film 24b.

[0056] The first magnetic film 24a and the second magnetic film 24b may, for example, have a SAF (synthetic anti-ferromagnetic) structure. This makes it easier to obtain a more stable and high-intensity first signal Sg1.

[0057] The first magnetic film 24a and the second magnetic film 24b may contain, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Co, and Ni. These magnetic films are, for example, ferromagnetic films. The first non-magnetic film 24c may contain, for example, Ru.

[0058] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the line A1-A2 in Figure 1(b). As shown in Figure 7, in the magnetic head 115 according to this embodiment, the regeneration unit 70 further includes a first partial region film 11af. The configuration of the magnetic head 115, excluding this, may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110.

[0059] The first partial region film 11af is provided between the first partial region 11a and the first magnetic layer 21 and is non-magnetic. The first partial region film 11af may contain, for example, oxygen. Such a first partial region film 11af makes it easier to achieve impedance matching and to obtain higher sensitivity. The first partial region film 11af may include, for example, a CCP (Current Confined Pass) film. Such a first partial region film 11af makes it easier to achieve impedance matching and to obtain higher sensitivity.

[0060] The regeneration section 70 may further include a second partial region film 12af. The second partial region film 12af is provided between the first partial region 11a and the second magnetic layer 22 and is non-magnetic. The second partial region film 12af may, for example, contain oxygen. Such a second partial region film 12af makes it easier to achieve impedance matching and to obtain higher sensitivity. The second partial region film 12af may, for example, include a CCP film. Such a second partial region film 12af makes it easier to achieve impedance matching and to obtain higher sensitivity.

[0061] (Second Embodiment) Figure 8 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a magnetic head and magnetic recording device according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, the magnetic head 110 according to this embodiment includes a playback 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. The recording unit 90 of the magnetic head 110 records information on the magnetic recording medium 80. The playback unit 70 reproduces the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium 80.

[0062] The magnetic recording medium 80 includes, for example, a media substrate 82 and a magnetic recording layer 81 provided on the media substrate 82. The magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81 is controlled by the recording unit 90. The recording unit 90 includes, for example, a first recording unit shield 91 and a second recording unit shield 92. The first recording unit shield 91 is, for example, a main shield. The second recording unit shield 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 be omitted.

[0063] The regeneration unit 70 includes, for example, a first regeneration magnetic shield 72a, a second regeneration magnetic shield 72b, and a magnetic regeneration element 71. The magnetic regeneration element 71 is provided between the first regeneration magnetic shield 72a and the second regeneration magnetic shield 72b. The magnetic regeneration element 71 is capable of outputting a signal corresponding to the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81.

[0064] In the magnetic head 110, the first regenerative magnetic shield 72a corresponds to the first shield 41, and the second regenerative magnetic shield 72b corresponds to the second shield 42. The magnetic regeneration element 71 may correspond to a laminate including, for example, a first magnetic layer 21, a first partial region 11a, and a second magnetic layer 22.

[0065] As shown in Figure 8, the magnetic recording medium 80 moves relative to the magnetic head 110 in the direction of the medium movement direction 85. The magnetic head 110 controls the information corresponding to the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81 at any position. The magnetic head 110 reproduces the information corresponding to the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81 at any position. The magnetic field to be detected described in relation to the first embodiment is based on the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording medium 80.

[0066] Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of a magnetic recording apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 9 illustrates a head slider. The magnetic head 110 is mounted on a head slider 159. The head slider 159 includes, for example, Al2O3 / TiC. The head slider 159 moves relative to the magnetic recording medium, either floating above or in contact with it.

[0067] The head slider 159 has, for example, an air inlet side 159A and an air outlet side 159B. The magnetic head 110 is positioned on the side of the air outlet side 159B of the head slider 159. As a result, the magnetic head 110 moves relative to the magnetic recording medium while floating above or in contact with it.

[0068] Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a magnetic recording device according to an embodiment. The magnetic recording device may be a magnetic recording and playback device. As shown in Figure 10, a rotary actuator is used in the magnetic recording device 150 according to this embodiment. The recording medium disk 180 is mounted on a spindle motor 180M. The recording medium disk 180 rotates in the direction of arrow AR by the spindle motor 180M. The spindle motor 180M responds to a control signal from the drive unit control. The magnetic recording device 150 according to this embodiment may 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 example, a non-volatile memory such as flash memory is used for the recording medium 181. For example, the magnetic recording device 150 may also be a hybrid HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0069] The head slider 159 records and plays back information to be recorded on the recording medium disk 180. The head slider 159 is located at the tip of a thin-film suspension 154. A magnetic head according to this embodiment is located near the tip of the head slider 159.

[0070] As the recording medium disk 180 rotates, the pressing pressure from the suspension 154 and the pressure generated on the media-facing surface (ABS) of the head slider 159 are balanced. The distance between the media-facing surface of the head slider 159 and the surface of the recording medium disk 180 becomes a predetermined amount of levitation. In this embodiment, the head slider 159 may be in contact with the recording medium disk 180. For example, a contact-running type may be applied.

[0071] The suspension 154 is connected to one end of an arm 155 (for example, an actuator arm). The arm 155 has, for example, a bobbin section. The bobbin section 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 section of the arm 155. The magnetic circuit includes a permanent magnet and an opposing yoke. The drive coil is provided between the permanent magnet and the opposing yoke. The suspension 154 has one end and the other end. A magnetic head is provided at one end of the suspension 154. The arm 155 is connected to the other end of the suspension 154.

[0072] The arm 155 is held by ball bearings. Ball bearings are provided at two locations, above and below the bearing portion 157. The arm 155 can rotate and slide by a voice coil motor 156. The magnetic head can move to any position on the recording medium disk 180.

[0073] Figures 11(a) and 11(b) are schematic perspective views illustrating a part of a magnetic recording apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 11(a) illustrates a part of the configuration of a magnetic recording device and is an enlarged perspective view of the head stack assembly 160. Figure 11(b) is a perspective view illustrating a magnetic head assembly (head gimbal assembly: HGA) 158, which is part of the head stack assembly 160.

[0074] As shown in Figure 11(a), the head stack assembly 160 includes a bearing section 157, a head gimbal assembly 158, and a support frame 161. The head gimbal assembly 158 extends from the bearing section 157. The support frame 161 extends from the bearing section 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.

[0075] As shown in Figure 11(b), the head gimbal assembly 158 includes an arm 155 extending from a bearing portion 157 and a suspension 154 extending from the arm 155.

[0076] A head slider 159 is provided at the tip of the suspension 154. A magnetic head according to the embodiment is provided on the head slider 159.

[0077] The magnetic head assembly (head gimbal assembly 158) according to the embodiment includes a magnetic head according to the embodiment, a head slider 159 on which the magnetic head is provided, 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.

[0078] The suspension 154 may have, for example, lead wires (not shown) for recording and reproducing signals. The suspension 154 may also have, for example, lead wires (not shown) for heaters for adjusting the amount of levitation. The suspension 154 may also have, for example, lead wires (not shown) for an oscillator or the like. These lead wires are electrically connected to a plurality of electrodes provided on the magnetic head.

[0079] In the magnetic recording device 150, a signal processing unit 190 is provided. The signal processing unit 190 records and reproduces signals on a magnetic recording medium using a magnetic head. The input and output lines of the signal processing unit 190 are connected, for example, to the electrode pads of the head gimbal assembly 158 and are electrically connected to the magnetic head.

[0080] The magnetic recording apparatus 150 according to the embodiment includes a magnetic recording medium, a magnetic head according to the embodiment, a movable part, a position control unit, and a signal processing unit. The movable part allows the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic head to move relative to each other while separated or in contact. The position control unit aligns the magnetic head to a predetermined recording position on the magnetic recording medium. The signal processing unit records and reproduces signals on the magnetic recording medium using the magnetic head.

[0081] For example, a recording medium disk 180 is used as the magnetic recording medium. The movable part includes, for example, a head slider 159. The position control unit includes, for example, a head gimbal assembly 158.

[0082] The embodiments may include the following technical proposals. (Technical proposal 1) The first shield and, The second shield, A first non-magnetic layer, the first non-magnetic layer comprising a first partial region and a second partial region, the second direction from the first partial region to the second partial region intersects with the first direction from the first shield to the second shield, and the first partial region is provided between the first shield and the second shield in the first direction, the first non-magnetic layer, A first magnetic layer provided between the first shield and the first partial region in the first direction, A second magnetic layer is provided between the first partial region and the second shield in the first direction, The third magnetic layer, A fourth magnetic layer is provided between the second partial region and the third magnetic layer, A non-magnetic first intermediate layer is provided between the third magnetic layer and the fourth magnetic layer, A magnetic head equipped with a playback section.

[0083] (Technical proposal 2) The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 1, wherein the direction from the second partial region to the third magnetic layer is along the first direction.

[0084] (Technical proposal 3) The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 1 or 2, wherein at least a portion of the fourth magnetic layer overlaps with the first magnetic layer or the second magnetic layer in the second direction.

[0085] (Technical proposal 4) A magnetic head according to any one of the technical proposals 1 to 3, wherein at least a portion of the third magnetic layer overlaps with the first shield or the second shield in the second direction.

[0086] (Technical proposal 5) The regeneration unit further includes a third shield and a fourth shield, The third direction from the third shield to the fourth shield intersects the plane including the first and second directions. The magnetic head according to any one of the technical proposals 1 to 4, wherein the first magnetic layer, the first partial region, and the second magnetic layer are located between the third shield and the fourth shield in the third direction.

[0087] (Technical proposal 6) A portion of the second sub-region overlaps with the third shield in the second direction, as described in Technical Proposal 5, for the magnetic head.

[0088] (Technical proposal 7) Another portion of the second sub-region overlaps with the fourth shield in the second direction, as described in Technical Proposal 6, the magnetic head.

[0089] (Technical proposal 8) The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 5, wherein at least a portion of the second sub-region is located between the third shield and the fourth shield.

[0090] (Technical proposal 9) The aforementioned regeneration unit is A first terminal electrically connected to the first shield, A second terminal electrically connected to the second shield, A third terminal electrically connected to the third magnetic layer, A fourth terminal electrically connected to the fourth magnetic layer, It further includes, The first shield includes a first surface configured to face the magnetic recording medium, A magnetic head according to any one of Technical Ideas 1 to 8, wherein the first signal between the third terminal and the fourth terminal when a first current flows between the first terminal and the second terminal is configured to change according to the state of the magnetic recording medium.

[0091] (Technical proposal 10) The regeneration unit further includes a fifth magnetic layer, a sixth magnetic layer, and a non-magnetic second intermediate layer. The second sub-region is located between the fifth magnetic layer and the third magnetic layer. The sixth magnetic layer is located between the fifth magnetic layer and the second partial region. The second intermediate layer is located between the fifth magnetic layer and the sixth magnetic layer, and is a magnetic head according to any one of Technical Proposals 1 to 8.

[0092] (Technical proposal 11) The aforementioned regeneration unit is A first terminal electrically connected to the first shield, A second terminal electrically connected to the second shield, A third terminal electrically connected to the third magnetic layer, A fourth terminal electrically connected to the fifth magnetic layer, It further includes, The first shield includes a first surface configured to face the magnetic recording medium, A magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 10, wherein the first signal between the third terminal and the fourth terminal when a first current flows between the first terminal and the second terminal is configured to change according to the state of the magnetic recording medium.

[0093] (Technical proposal 12) The fourth magnetic layer is The first magnetic film and, A second magnetic film is provided between the first magnetic film and the second partial region, A first non-magnetic film provided between the first magnetic film and the second magnetic film; The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 11, including .

[0094] (Technical Solution 13) The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 12, wherein the first intermediate layer contains MgO or Cu.

[0095] (Technical Solution 14) At least one of the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer contains at least one selected from the group consisting of Co2MnAl, Co2MnSi, Co2MnGa, Co2MnGe, Co2Mn(Ge 0.5 Ga 0.5 ), Co2Fe(Ge 0.5 Ga 0.5 ) and CoFeMnSi. The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 13.

[0096] (Technical Solution 15) At least one of the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer contains a Heusler alloy. The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 13.

[0097] (Technical Solution 16) The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 15, wherein the reproducing portion further includes a non-magnetic first shield film provided between the first shield and the first magnetic layer.

[0098] (Technical Solution 17) The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 16, wherein the reproducing portion further includes a non-magnetic second shield film provided between the second shield and the second magnetic layer.

[0099] (Technical Solution 18) The reproducing portion further includes a non-magnetic first partial region film provided between the first partial region and the first magnetic layer, The first partial region film contains oxygen. The magnetic head according to any one of Technical Solutions 1 to 17.

[0100] (Technical proposal 19) The regeneration unit further includes a non-magnetic first partial region film provided between the first partial region and the first magnetic layer. The first partial region film is a magnetic head according to any one of Technical Proposals 1 to 17, comprising a CCP film.

[0101] (Technical proposal 20) The magnetic head described in Technical Proposal 1, Magnetic recording medium and Equipped with, A magnetic recording device wherein the magnetic head is configured to reproduce information recorded on the magnetic recording medium.

[0102] According to the embodiment, a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device capable of improving characteristics can be provided.

[0103] In this specification, "perpendicular" and "parallel" do not mean strictly perpendicular and strictly parallel, but also include variations in the manufacturing process, for example, and it is sufficient if they are substantially perpendicular and substantially parallel.

[0104] The embodiments of the present invention have been 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 included in the magnetic head and magnetic recording device, such as shields, magnetic members, conductive members, and terminals, is included within the scope of the present invention as long as the present invention can be implemented in the same manner and similar effects can be obtained by appropriately selecting from the range known to those skilled in the art.

[0105] Combinations of two or more elements from any of the specific examples, to the extent technically feasible, are also included within the scope of the present invention, insofar as they encompass the gist of the invention.

[0106] Furthermore, all magnetic heads and magnetic recording devices that a person skilled in the art can design and implement based on the above-described embodiments of the present invention, insofar as they encompass the gist of the present invention, also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0107] Furthermore, within the scope of the concept of the present invention, a person skilled in the art could conceive of various modifications and alterations, and it is understood that such modifications and alterations also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0108] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0109] 11: First non-magnetic layer, 11a, 11b: First and second partial regions, 11af, 12af: First and second partial region films, 21~26: First to sixth magnetic layers, 21M~24M: First to fourth magnetic layer magnetization, 24a, 24b: First and second magnetic films, 24c: First non-magnetic film, 30i: Insulating material, 31n, 32n: First and second intermediate layers, 41~44: First to fourth shields, 41F: First surface, 41n, 42n: First and second intermediate films, 70: Regeneration section, 71: Magnetic regeneration element, 72a, 72b: First and second regeneration magnetic shields, 75a, 75b: First and second circuits, 80: Magnetic recording medium, 81: Magnetic recording layer, 82: Medium substrate, 83: Magnetization, 85: Direction of movement of the medium, 90: Recording section, 91, 92: 1st and 2nd recording section shields, 93: Recording section element, 110~115: Magnetic head, 150: Magnetic recording device, 154: Suspension, 155: Arm, 156: Voice coil motor, 157: Bearing section, 158: Head gimbal 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 section, AR: Arrow, D1~D3: 1st to 3rd direction, Sg1: 1st signal, T1~T4: 1st to 4th terminals, i1: 1st current

Claims

1. The first shield and, The second shield and, A first non-magnetic layer, the first non-magnetic layer includes a first partial region and a second partial region, the second direction from the first partial region to the second partial region intersects with the first direction from the first shield to the second shield, and the first partial region is provided between the first shield and the second shield in the first direction, the first non-magnetic layer, A first magnetic layer provided between the first shield and the first partial region in the first direction, A second magnetic layer is provided between the first partial region and the second shield in the first direction, The third magnetic layer, A fourth magnetic layer is provided between the second partial region and the third magnetic layer, A non-magnetic first intermediate layer is provided between the third magnetic layer and the fourth magnetic layer, A magnetic head equipped with a playback section.

2. The magnetic head according to claim 1, wherein the direction from the second partial region to the third magnetic layer is along the first direction.

3. The magnetic head according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the fourth magnetic layer overlaps with the first magnetic layer or the second magnetic layer in the second direction.

4. The regeneration unit further includes a third shield and a fourth shield, The third direction from the third shield to the fourth shield intersects with the plane including the first and second directions. The magnetic head according to claim 1, wherein the first magnetic layer, the first partial region, and the second magnetic layer are located between the third shield and the fourth shield in the third direction.

5. The magnetic head according to claim 4, wherein a portion of the second sub-region overlaps with the third shield in the second direction.

6. The magnetic head according to claim 4, wherein at least a portion of the second partial region is located between the third shield and the fourth shield.

7. The aforementioned regeneration unit is A first terminal electrically connected to the first shield, A second terminal electrically connected to the second shield, A third terminal electrically connected to the third magnetic layer, A fourth terminal electrically connected to the fourth magnetic layer, It further includes, The first shield includes a first surface configured to face the magnetic recording medium, The magnetic head according to claim 1, wherein the first signal between the third terminal and the fourth terminal when a first current flows between the first terminal and the second terminal is configured to change according to the state of the magnetic recording medium.

8. The regeneration unit further includes a fifth magnetic layer, a sixth magnetic layer, and a non-magnetic second intermediate layer. The second sub-region is located between the fifth magnetic layer and the third magnetic layer. The sixth magnetic layer is located between the fifth magnetic layer and the second partial region. The magnetic head according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second intermediate layer is located between the fifth magnetic layer and the sixth magnetic layer.

9. The aforementioned regeneration unit is A first terminal electrically connected to the first shield, A second terminal electrically connected to the second shield, A third terminal electrically connected to the third magnetic layer, A fourth terminal electrically connected to the fifth magnetic layer, It further includes, The first shield includes a first surface configured to face the magnetic recording medium, The magnetic head according to claim 8, wherein the first signal between the third terminal and the fourth terminal when a first current flows between the first terminal and the second terminal is configured to change according to the state of the magnetic recording medium.

10. The magnetic head according to claim 1, Magnetic recording medium and Equipped with, A magnetic recording device wherein the magnetic head is configured to reproduce information recorded on the magnetic recording medium.

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