Compact Multi-Axis Magnetic Field Detection With Inclined MR Films

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing magnetic field detection apparatuses face challenges in reducing size while maintaining high reliability and sensitivity.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus incorporates a substrate with inclined projections and magnetoresistive effect films arranged on inclined surfaces, coupled by intersecting wiring lines, forming bridge circuits to detect magnetic fields in multiple axes, allowing for a compact design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If magnetoresistive effect elements are arranged in a conventional planar configuration, then the device structure is simple, but the device size cannot be reduced further while maintaining detection functionality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a planar two-dimensional arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration by placing magnetoresistive effect elements on inclined surfaces of projections. This vertical stacking approach utilizes the third dimension (height) to reduce the footprint area while maintaining the necessary number of sensing elements and their interconnections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a nested structure where magnetoresistive effect elements are positioned on inclined surfaces of projections that rise from the substrate. The wiring lines are routed through multiple levels and around projection structures, creating a compact nested arrangement that integrates sensing elements and interconnects in a space-efficient manner.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Measurement precision

If the number of magnetoresistive effect elements and wiring lines is increased to improve detection precision, then measurement precision improves, but device area increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemagnetic field detection precisionVSAvoiddevice area
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By utilizing inclined surfaces and vertical projections, the patent accommodates multiple magnetoresistive effect elements and their interconnections in a compact volume. The three-dimensional arrangement allows more sensing elements to be packed into a smaller planar footprint, enabling multi-axis detection without proportionally increasing the device area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If wiring lines are arranged to connect magnetoresistive effect films on inclined surfaces, then connectivity is achieved, but wiring complexity and potential short circuits increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational reliabilityVSAvoidwiring configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the wiring system into multiple segments: first wiring lines that connect elements on first inclined surfaces, and second wiring lines that connect elements on second inclined surfaces. This segmentation allows independent routing and reduces the complexity of any single wiring path while maintaining overall connectivity and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the third dimension by routing wiring lines through vertical and inclined paths rather than confined to a single planar layer. This three-dimensional wiring approach reduces the risk of short circuits by spatially separating interconnected lines and provides more flexible routing options to achieve reliable connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

This configuration enables efficient detection of magnetic fields in multiple axes with reduced size and improved reliability, suitable for applications such as electromagnetic compasses.

Implementation Method 1

a first magnetoresistive effect film provided on the first inclined surface, a second magnetoresistive effect film provided on the second inclined surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetoresistive effect: Magnetoresistance

Data Source

PatentUS12379432B2Magnetic field detection apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.08.05 TDK CORP
  • US12379432B2 patent drawing
  • US12379432B2 patent drawing
  • US12379432B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A magnetic field detection apparatus includes a substrate, first and second projections, first and second MR films, and first and second wiring lines. The first and second projections are provided on a flat surface of the substrate and each include first and second inclined surfaces. The first and second MR films are provided on the first and second inclined surfaces, respectively. The first wiring line couples the first MR film on the first inclined surface of the first projection and the first MR film on the first inclined surface of the second projection to each other. The second wiring line couples the second MR film on the second inclined surface of the first projection and the second MR film on the second inclined surface of the second projection to each other. The first and second wiring lines intersect on the first inclined surface, the second inclined surface, or both.