Embedded EMI Shielding for Magnetic Tape Head Readers and Writers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) between magnetic transducer elements in magnetic tape heads causes higher noise and lower signal-to-noise ratio, which is not effectively addressed by existing physical shields.
Innovation Solution
Embedding an EMI shield within the chiplet, positioned close to the readers and writers, to minimize radiation interference by utilizing high permeability materials like permalloy, reducing the gap-to-gap distance between modules and enhancing shielding efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a physical shield is positioned to extend between adjacent modules, then EMI shielding is provided, but the gap-to-gap distance between modules increases and drive capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The EMI shield is embedded within the chiplet structure itself, nested between the reader and writer elements, rather than being a separate external component. This integration allows the shield to provide EMI protection while occupying minimal space and not increasing the gap-to-gap distance between modules, thereby maintaining high drive capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The EMI shield function is merged with the chiplet structure by embedding it within the same substrate. The shield becomes an integrated part of the chiplet rather than a separate component, combining the functions of data transduction and EMI shielding in a single compact unit that does not compromise drive capacity
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a 100 μm thick Al body shield is coupled to write cables, then EMI between adjacent modules is inhibited, but device complexity and physical dimensions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The EMI shield is merged with the chiplet structure, eliminating the need for separate shield components and their associated mounting, connection, and alignment mechanisms. This integration simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining EMI inhibition effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The shield is nested within the chiplet's internal structure, embedded between functional elements rather than attached as an external component. This reduces the number of parts and assembly steps, thereby reducing device complexity
3Ease of manufacture
If an EMI shield is positioned away from readers and writers, then manufacturing is easier, but radiation interference is not effectively minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The shield is positioned locally between the reader and writer elements where EMI is most problematic, rather than uniformly distributed or positioned for manufacturing convenience. This localized placement optimizes shielding effectiveness at the critical interface between read and write operations
Solution Approach 2:
The EMI shield acts as an intermediary element embedded between the writer and reader, physically positioned to intercept and block electromagnetic radiation in the critical path between these two functional elements, effectively minimizing radiation interference
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 embedded EMI shield effectively reduces radiation interference, allowing for closer module placement and higher drive capacity by minimizing radiation passing around the shield, thus improving signal quality and reducing physical dimensions.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield embedded in the chiplet, the EMI shield configured to inhibit electromagnetic interference during operation of the at least one of the reader and the writer
Implementation Method 2
to minimize radiation interference by utilizing high permeability materials like permalloy
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are devices for use in a magnetic tape head, a magnetic tape head, and methods for forming the same. A device includes a chiplet including at least one of a reader and a writer. The device also includes an electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield embedded in the chiplet. The EMI shield is configured to inhibit electromagnetic interference during operation of the at least one of the reader and the writer.