Magnetic head and magnetic recording device

Abstract

To provide a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device capable of improving characteristics.SOLUTION: A magnetic head 110 includes a reproducing unit 70. The reproducing unit 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. A second direction D2 from the third shield 43 to the fourth shield 44 intersects with a first direction D1 from the first shield 41 to the second shield 42. 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 and is non-magnetic. The second intermediate layer 62 is provided between the first magnetic layer 11 and the second shield 42 and is non-magnetic. A second intermediate layer length L62 along the second direction D2 of the second intermediate layer 62 is shorter than a first intermediate layer length L61 along the second direction of the first intermediate layer.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Information is recorded on a magnetic recording medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) using a magnetic head including a magnetic sensor using a magnetic layer. In the magnetic head, improvement of characteristics is desired.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

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

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] According to an embodiment, the magnetic head includes a reproducing section. The reproducing section 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 to the fourth shield intersects a first direction from the first shield to 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 along the second direction of the second intermediate layer is shorter than a first intermediate layer length along the second direction of the first intermediate layer.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional 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 cross-sectional 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 cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a magnetic head and magnetic recording device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of a magnetic recording apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a magnetic recording device according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] Figures 13(a) and 13(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 this specification and in each figure, elements similar to those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals with respect to previously shown figures, and detailed explanations are omitted as appropriate.

[0008] (First Embodiment) Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the magnetic head 110 according to this embodiment includes a regeneration unit 70. The regeneration unit 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.

[0009] 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.

[0010] In this example, the first direction D1 is defined as the X-axis direction. One direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction is defined as the Y-axis direction. A direction perpendicular to both the X-axis and Y-axis directions is defined as the Z-axis direction. The second direction D2 is, for example, the Y-axis direction.

[0011] 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 non-magnetic. The second intermediate layer 62 is provided between the first magnetic layer 11 and the second shield 42. The second intermediate layer 62 is non-magnetic.

[0012] The length of the second intermediate layer 62 along the second direction D2 is defined as the second intermediate layer length L62. The length of the first intermediate layer 61 along the second direction D2 is defined as the first intermediate layer length L61. The second intermediate layer length L62 is shorter than the first intermediate layer length L61.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, in one example, the playback 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.

[0014] 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 a 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 to be detected. The change in voltage is considered to be caused by, for example, the Anomalous Hall Effect.

[0015] The change in voltage is detected by the first circuit 75a. Thereby, the magnetic field Hx to be detected can be detected. Thus, 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 magnetic field Hx to be detected. The magnetic field Hx to be detected is based on, for example, information recorded on a magnetic recording medium.

[0016] In an embodiment, the first circuit 75a and the second circuit 75b may be regarded as being included in the magnetic head 110 for convenience. The first circuit 75a and the second circuit 75b may be provided separately from the magnetic head 110. These circuits may be included in a magnetic recording device. The first circuit 75a includes, for example, a voltmeter. The second circuit 75b includes, for example, a current source.

[0017] In this embodiment, the first intermediate layer 61 and the second intermediate layer 62 described above are provided. Current can pass not only through the first magnetic layer 11 but also through these intermediate layers. Current passing through these intermediate layers (leakage current or sneak current) does not contribute to the voltage change. Current passing through these intermediate layers reduces the detection sensitivity. By shortening the length of these intermediate layers, the effect of leakage current flowing through the intermediate layers can be reduced. On the other hand, the provision of these intermediate layers allows for good low electrical resistance when detecting voltage, and for example, the effect of noise can be reduced.

[0018] In this 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. This suppresses leakage current and reduces the increase in electrical resistance. According to this embodiment, high detection sensitivity can be obtained, and high-precision detection can be achieved. According to this embodiment, a magnetic head with improved characteristics can be provided.

[0019] Thus, in this embodiment, an asymmetric configuration is applied to the first intermediate layer 61 and the second intermediate layer 62. The asymmetric configuration is easy to manufacture. A practical magnetic head 110 can be provided.

[0020] As shown in Figure 1, the length of the first magnetic layer 11 along the second direction D2 is defined as the first magnetic layer length L11. Preferably, the first magnetic layer length L11 is between the first intermediate layer length L61 and the second intermediate layer length L62. This allows for more effective suppression of leakage current.

[0021] As described above, the first magnetic layer 11 has, for example, an anomalous Hall effect. For example, the first magnetic layer 11 may contain at least one selected from the group consisting of Co2MnGa, CoMnAl, and FePt. These materials effectively provide an anomalous Hall effect.

[0022] In one example, at least one of the first intermediate layer 61 and the second intermediate layer 62 may contain at least one selected from the group consisting of Cu, Au, Ag, Pt, Al, Pd, Ta, Ru, Hf, W, Mo, Ir, Cr, Tb, and Rh. These materials can, for example, suppress the spin effect between the shield and the first magnetic layer 11. High sensitivity is easily obtained.

[0023] As shown in Figure 1, the regeneration section 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 non-magnetic. The fourth intermediate layer 64 is provided between the first magnetic layer 11 and the fourth shield 44 and is non-magnetic.

[0024] The length of the third intermediate layer 63 along the first direction D1 is defined as the third intermediate layer length L63. The length of the first magnetic layer 11 along the first direction D1 is defined 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 defined 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 this configuration, the influence of these intermediate layers is suppressed in voltage detection, making it easier to obtain higher sensitivity.

[0025] As shown in Figure 1, the regeneration 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.

[0026] As shown in Figure 1, another portion of the first insulating region 31a is provided between the first shield 41 and the third shield 43. Another portion of the second insulating region 31b is provided between the first shield 41 and the fourth shield 44.

[0027] As shown in Figure 1, 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 provided between a portion of the first magnetic layer 11 and the second shield 42. A portion of the fourth insulating region 31d is provided between another portion of the first magnetic layer 11 and the second shield 42.

[0028] As shown in Figure 1, another portion of the third insulating region 31c is provided between the third shield 43 and the second shield 42. Another portion of the fourth insulating region 31d is provided between the fourth shield 44 and the second shield 42.

[0029] 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 with the first shield 41 and the second shield 42 in the first direction D1. The third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44 do not necessarily have to overlap with the first shield 41 and the second shield 42 in the first direction D1.

[0030] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, in the magnetic head 111 according to this embodiment, the configuration of the intermediate layer is different from that of the intermediate layer in the magnetic head 110. The rest of the configuration of the magnetic head 111 can be the same as that of the magnetic head 110.

[0031] 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. Even in such a magnetic head 111, leakage current can be suppressed.

[0032] 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.

[0033] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, in the magnetic head 112 according to this embodiment, the configuration of the intermediate layer is different from that of the intermediate layer in the magnetic head 110. The configuration of the magnetic head 112, apart from this, may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110.

[0034] In the magnetic head 112, a portion of the third insulating region 31c is provided between the third shield 43 and the first magnetic layer 11 in the second direction D2. A portion of the fourth insulating region 31d is provided between the first magnetic layer 11 and the fourth shield 44 in the second direction D2. Even in such a magnetic head 112, leakage current can be suppressed.

[0035] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, in the magnetic head 113 according to this 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 rest of the configuration of the magnetic head 113 may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110.

[0036] In the magnetic head 113, the first magnetic layer 11 includes a first side surface 11a facing the third intermediate layer 63. The first side surface 11a is inclined with respect to a first direction D1. The first magnetic layer 11 includes a second side surface 11b facing the fourth intermediate layer 64. The second side surface 11b is inclined with respect 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.

[0037] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, in the magnetic head 114 according to this 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, apart from this, may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110 and the like.

[0038] 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 a plane containing the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The third direction D3 may be, for example, the Z-axis direction. Even in such a magnetic head 114, leakage current can be suppressed.

[0039] As shown in Figure 5, 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.

[0040] As shown in Figure 5, the regeneration section 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.

[0041] As shown in Figure 5, for example, the first shield 41 includes a medium-facing surface 70f. The second insulating member 32 moves away from the medium-facing surface 70f in a third direction D3.

[0042] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, in the magnetic head 114a according to the embodiment, the configuration of the first magnetic layer 11 differs from that of the magnetic head 114. The configuration of the magnetic head 114a, excluding this, may be the same as that of the magnetic head 114. In the magnetic head 114a, the first magnetic layer 11 protrudes with respect to the side surface of the first intermediate layer 61 and the side surface of the second intermediate layer 62. Even in such a magnetic head 114a, leakage current can be suppressed.

[0043] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, in the magnetic head 114b according to the embodiment, the configuration of the first magnetic layer 11 differs from that of the magnetic head 114. The configuration of the magnetic head 114b, apart from this, may be the same as that of the magnetic head 114. In the magnetic head 114b, the first magnetic layer 11 protrudes with respect to the side surface of the first intermediate layer 61 and the side surface of the second intermediate layer 62. In the magnetic head 114b, the length of the first magnetic layer 11 along the third direction D3 is substantially constant. Even in such a magnetic head 114b, leakage current can be suppressed.

[0044] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, in the embodiment of the magnetic head 115, the configuration of the intermediate layer differs from that of the intermediate layer of the magnetic head 110. The configuration of the magnetic head 115, apart from this, may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110.

[0045] As shown in Figure 8, 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 includes, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO, and HfN. The first metal layer 61m contains a metal. In such a first intermediate layer 61, a current path with appropriate electrical resistance is easily obtained. For example, leakage current can be suppressed more effectively.

[0046] 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 includes, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO, and HfN. The second metal layer 62m contains a metal. In such a second intermediate layer 62, a current path with appropriate electrical resistance can be easily obtained. For example, leakage current can be suppressed more effectively.

[0047] 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 includes, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO, and HfN. The third metal layer 63m contains a metal. In such a third intermediate layer 63, a current path with appropriate electrical resistance is easily obtained. For example, leakage current can be suppressed more effectively.

[0048] 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 includes, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO, and HfN. The fourth metal layer 64m contains a metal. In such a third intermediate layer 63, a current path with appropriate electrical resistance is easily obtained. For example, leakage current can be suppressed more effectively.

[0049] 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 contains at least one selected from the group consisting of, for example, Cu, Au, Ag, Pt, Al, Pd, Ta, Ru, Hf, W, Mo, Ir, Cr, Tb, and Rh. For example, the effect of spin can be suppressed.

[0050] Preferably, the electrical resistivity of the first compound layer 61c is greater than 1 times and less than or equal to 5 times the electrical resistivity of the first magnetic layer 11. A high shunt suppression effect can be obtained when the electrical resistivity of the first compound layer 61c exceeds 1 times the electrical resistivity of the first magnetic layer 11. If the electrical resistivity of the first compound layer 61c is 5 times or more the electrical resistivity of the first magnetic layer 11, for example, noise will increase and the signal-to-noise ratio will tend to decrease.

[0051] Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a magnetic head according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 9, in the magnetic head 116 according to this embodiment, the circuit connection relationships are different from those in the magnetic head 110. The configuration of the magnetic head 116, apart from this, may be the same as that of the magnetic head 110.

[0052] 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 current flows between the first terminal 51 and the second terminal 52 can be varied according to the magnetic field Hx to be detected. Leakage current can also be suppressed in the magnetic head 116. A magnetic head with improved characteristics can be provided.

[0053] (Second Embodiment) Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a magnetic head and magnetic recording device according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 10, 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.

[0054] 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 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 be omitted.

[0055] The playback unit 70 includes, for example, a first shield 41, a second shield 42, and a first magnetic layer 11. In Figure 10, the third shield 43 and the fourth shield 44 are omitted. The playback unit 70 is capable of outputting a signal corresponding to the magnetization 83 of the magnetic recording layer 81.

[0056] As shown in Figure 10, 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.

[0057] The X-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the down-track direction. The Y-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the cross-track direction. The Z-axis direction corresponds to, for example, the high-track direction.

[0058] Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of a magnetic recording apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 11 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] Figure 12 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a magnetic recording device according to an embodiment. Figures 13(a) and 13(b) are schematic perspective views illustrating a part of a magnetic recording apparatus according to an embodiment. The magnetic recording device may be a magnetic recording and playback device. As shown in Figure 12, 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 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 be a hybrid HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] Figure 13(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 13(b) is a perspective view illustrating a magnetic head assembly (head gimbal assembly: HGA) 158, which is part of the head stack assembly 160.

[0066] As shown in Figure 13(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.

[0067] As shown in Figure 13(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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] The embodiments may include the following technical proposals. (Technical proposal 1) It is equipped with a regeneration unit, and the regeneration unit is The first shield and, The second shield, The third shield and, The fourth shield is such that the second direction from the third shield to the fourth shield intersects with the first direction from the first shield to the second shield, and the fourth shield is... A first magnetic layer is provided between the first shield and the second shield, and between the third shield and the fourth shield, A non-magnetic first intermediate layer is provided between the first shield and the first magnetic layer, A non-magnetic second intermediate layer is provided between the first magnetic layer and the second shield, Includes, A magnetic head wherein the length of the second intermediate layer along the second direction of the second intermediate layer is shorter than the length of the first intermediate layer along the second direction of the first intermediate layer.

[0075] (Technical proposal 2) The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 1, wherein the length of the first magnetic layer along the second direction of the first magnetic layer is between the length of the first intermediate layer and the length of the second intermediate layer.

[0076] (Technical proposal 3) The aforementioned regeneration unit is A non-magnetic third intermediate layer is provided between the third shield and the first magnetic layer, A non-magnetic fourth intermediate layer is provided between the first magnetic layer and the fourth shield, Furthermore, The length of the third intermediate layer along the first direction is shorter than the thickness of the first magnetic layer along the first direction of the first magnetic layer. The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 1 or 2, wherein the length of the fourth intermediate layer along the first direction is shorter than the thickness of the first magnetic layer.

[0077] (Technical proposal 4) The regeneration 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 the portion of the fourth shield, as described in Technical Proposal 3, for the magnetic head.

[0078] (Technical proposal 5) Another portion of the first insulating region is provided between the first shield and the third shield, Another portion of the second insulating region is provided between the first shield and the fourth shield, as described in Technical Proposal 4, for the magnetic head.

[0079] (Technical proposal 6) 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 magnetic head according to technical proposal 4 or 5, wherein a portion of the fourth insulating region is provided between another portion of the first magnetic layer and the second shield.

[0080] (Technical proposal 7) Another portion of the third insulating region is provided between the third shield and the second shield, Another portion of the fourth insulating region is a magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 6, provided between the fourth shield and the second shield.

[0081] (Technical proposal 8) The portion of the third insulating region is provided between the third shield and the first magnetic layer in the second direction. The portion of the fourth insulating region is provided between the first magnetic layer and the fourth shield in the second direction, as described in Technical Proposal 6 or 7, for the magnetic head.

[0082] (Technical proposal 9) The first magnetic layer includes a first side surface facing the third intermediate layer, The first side surface is inclined with respect to the first direction, and is a magnetic head according to any one of the technical proposals 3 to 8.

[0083] (Technical proposal 10) At least a portion of the first intermediate layer is provided between the third shield and the fourth shield in the second direction, as described in any one of the technical proposals 1 to 7, for a magnetic head.

[0084] (Technical proposal 11) 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 magnetic head according to any one of Technical Proposals 1 to 10, wherein the third direction intersects with the plane including the first and second directions.

[0085] (Technical proposal 12) The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 11, wherein the 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.

[0086] (Technical proposal 13) The first intermediate layer comprises 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 magnetic head according to any one of the technical proposals 1 to 12, wherein the first compound layer comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO, and HfN.

[0087] (Technical proposal 14) The aforementioned second intermediate layer includes a second metal layer and a second compound layer, The second compound layer is provided between the first magnetic layer and the second metal layer. The magnetic head according to any one of the technical proposals 1 to 13, wherein the second compound layer comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO, and HfN.

[0088] (Technical proposal 15) The aforementioned third intermediate layer includes a third metal layer and a third compound layer, The third compound layer is provided between the third metal layer and the first magnetic layer. The third compound layer comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO, and HfN. The fourth intermediate layer comprises a fourth metal layer and a fourth compound layer, The fourth compound layer is provided between the first magnetic layer and the fourth metal layer. The magnetic head according to any one of the technical proposals 3 to 9, wherein the fourth compound layer comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of MgO, MgAlO, SiO2, Al2O3, AlN, Mg3N2, HfO, and HfN.

[0089] (Technical proposal 16) The aforementioned regeneration unit is The first shield and the first terminal electrically connected, The second terminal is electrically connected to the second shield, The third terminal electrically connected to the third shield, The fourth terminal is electrically connected to the fourth shield, A magnetic head as described in any one of Technical Proposals 1 to 15, further including the above.

[0090] (Technical proposal 17) The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 16, wherein the voltage between the first terminal and the second terminal when current flows between the third terminal and the fourth terminal is variable according to the magnetic field to be detected.

[0091] (Technical proposal 18) The magnetic head according to Technical Proposal 16, wherein the voltage between the third terminal and the fourth terminal when current flows between the first terminal and the second terminal is variable according to the magnetic field to be detected.

[0092] (Technical proposal 19) The magnetic head according to any one of the technical proposals 1 to 18, wherein the first magnetic layer comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of Co2MnGa, CoMnAl, and FePt.

[0093] (Technical proposal 20) A magnetic head described in any one of Technical Proposals 1 to 19, Magnetic recording medium and Equipped with, The playback unit is a magnetic recording device capable of playing back information recorded on the magnetic recording medium.

[0094] According to the embodiment, a magnetic head and a magnetic recording device capable of improving characteristics can be provided.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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 the shield, magnetic layer, intermediate layer, 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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]

[0101] 11: First magnetic layer, 11a, 11b: First and second side surfaces, 31, 32: First and second insulating members, 31a~31d: First to fourth insulating regions, 41~44: First to fourth shields, 51~54: First to fourth terminals, 61~64: First to fourth intermediate layers, 61c~64c: First to fourth compound layers, 61m~64m: First to fourth metal layers, 70: Regeneration section, 70f: Media-facing surface, 75a, 75b: First and second circuits, 80: Magnetic recording medium, 81: Magnetic recording layer, 82: Media substrate, 83: Magnetization, 85: Media movement direction, 90: Recording section, 91, 92: First and second magnetic poles, 93: Recording section element, 110-116, 114a, 114b: 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-3rd direction, Hx: Magnetic field to be detected, L11: Length of the first magnetic layer, L61-L64: Length of the first-4th intermediate layers, T11: Thickness of the first magnetic layer

Claims

1. It is equipped with a regeneration unit, and the regeneration unit is The first shield and, The second shield and, The third shield and, A fourth shield, wherein the second direction from the third shield to the fourth shield intersects with the first direction from the first shield to the second shield, and the fourth shield A first magnetic layer is provided between the first shield and the second shield, and between the third shield and the fourth shield, A non-magnetic first intermediate layer is provided between the first shield and the first magnetic layer, A non-magnetic second intermediate layer is provided between the first magnetic layer and the second shield, Includes, The length of the second intermediate layer along the second direction is shorter than the length of the first intermediate layer along the second direction of the first intermediate layer. A magnetic head wherein the first intermediate layer includes a first metal layer, and the second intermediate layer includes a second metal layer.

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

3. The aforementioned regeneration unit is A non-magnetic third intermediate layer is provided between the third shield and the first magnetic layer, A non-magnetic fourth intermediate layer is provided between the first magnetic layer and the fourth shield, Furthermore, The length of the third intermediate layer along the first direction is shorter than the thickness of the first magnetic layer along the first direction of the first magnetic layer. The magnetic head according to claim 1, wherein the length of the fourth intermediate layer along the first direction is shorter than the thickness of the first magnetic layer.

4. The regeneration 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. The magnetic head according to claim 3, wherein a portion of the second insulating region is provided between the portion of the first magnetic layer and the portion of the fourth shield.

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

6. 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 magnetic head according to claim 1, wherein the third direction intersects a plane including the first and second directions.

7. The first intermediate layer further comprises a first compound layer, The first compound layer is provided between the first metal layer and the first magnetic layer. The first compound layer consists of MgO, MgAlO, and SiO ２ Al ２ O ３ AlN, Mg ３ N ２ The magnetic head according to claim 1, comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of HfO and HfN.

8. The aforementioned regeneration unit is The first terminal is electrically connected to the first shield, The second terminal is electrically connected to the second shield, The third shield and the third terminal electrically connected, The fourth terminal electrically connected to the fourth shield, A magnetic head according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising:

9. The magnetic head according to claim 8, wherein the voltage between the first terminal and the second terminal when current flows between the third terminal and the fourth terminal is variable according to the magnetic field to be detected.

10. The magnetic head according to claim 1, Magnetic recording medium and Equipped with, The playback unit is a magnetic recording device capable of playing back information recorded on the magnetic recording medium.

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