3D SQUID Array Pyramidal Geometry for Direction Finding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) arrays lack the ability to maintain linearity in a 3D structure while being compact enough for integration on a 1 cm×1 cm chip, and they struggle to detect magnetic fields in three dimensions without resonating, which is essential for direction finding applications.
Innovation Solution
A 3D SQUID array is designed with a pyramidal geometry, comprising multiple independent planar arrays of SQUIDs arranged in tiers with varying numbers of sub-blocks and different loop sizes, following a Gaussian distribution, to maintain linearity and enhance magnetic field detection capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a 3D SQUID array is designed with pyramidal geometry to detect magnetic fields in three dimensions, then the device can achieve direction finding capability, but the linearity and voltage dynamic range are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the loop sizes and critical currents of individual SQUIDs based on their specific positions within the pyramidal array. SQUIDs closer to the apex have different parameters than those at the base, optimizing each element's contribution to the overall three-dimensional magnetic field detection while maintaining linearity. This position-dependent parameter variation allows the array to achieve both 3D detection capability and measurement precision.
2Area of stationary object
If SQUID arrays are made compact for integration on a 1 cm×1 cm chip, then the device size is reduced, but the ability to maintain linearity and detection precision is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional planar arrays to a three-dimensional pyramidal structure. This dimensional change allows the SQUID array to achieve enhanced detection capabilities and maintain linearity within a compact footprint suitable for 1 cm×1 cm chip integration. The vertical dimension provides additional spatial freedom to optimize the detector geometry without increasing the planar area.
3Power
If traditional antenna designs are used for RF detection, then resonance-based detection is achieved, but the device cannot detect minute magnetic fields with the same efficiency as SQUID arrays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical resonance-based detection mechanism of traditional antennas with a quantum mechanical detection mechanism using SQUIDs. Superconducting electrons quantum mechanically tunnel across Josephson junctions to detect minute magnetic fields directly, eliminating the need for resonance-based detection. This substitution enables highly efficient magnetic field detection while operating across a wide frequency range from DC to GHz and theoretically up to THz.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The configuration achieves increased linearity and improved voltage dynamic range, allowing for effective detection of magnetic fields in three dimensions with reduced oscillations, enhancing the device's ability for direction finding and signal detection without resonating.
Implementation Method 1
A Josephson junction can be a region of material that can provide a weak link between two fully superconducting regions. Superconducting electrons can quantum mechanically tunnel across the Josephson junction in a well-understood process.
Implementation Method 2
The DC SQUID can have two symmetrical Josephson junctions, and DC SQUIDs can typically sense extremely small magnetic fields.
Data Source
AI summary
A device in accordance with several embodiments can include a plurality of N Superconducting Quantum Interference Devices (SQUIDs), which can be divided into a plurality of sub-blocks of SQUIDs. The SQUIDs in the sub-blocks can be RF SQUIDs, DC SQUIDs or bi-SQUIDs. The sub-blocks can be arranged in a plurality of X tiers, with each T.sub.i tier having a different number of sub-blocks of SQUIDs than an immediately adjacent T.sub.i tier. Each T.sub.i tier can have the same total bias current; and can have SQUIDs with different critical currents and loop sizes, with the different loop sizes on each tier having a Gaussian distribution of between 0.5 and 1.5 (or a random distribution). Additionally, the Arrays can be configured as three independent planar arrays of SQUIDs. The three planar arrays can be triangular when viewed in top plan, and can be arranged so that they are orthogonal to each other.