Laser Diode Optical Structure Using Magnetoresistive Light Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical devices, particularly those incorporating laser diodes, lack innovative integration of photoelectric conversion elements to enhance functionality and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An optical device comprising a laser diode and a magnetic element with a structure including a first ferromagnetic layer, a second ferromagnetic layer, and a spacer layer, where light emitted from the laser diode is applied to the magnetic element, which detects changes in light intensity and converts it into electrical signals through magnetoresistance effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a semiconductor photodiode is used as a photodetection element on the back surface of the laser diode, then light output monitoring is achieved, but the device lacks novel functionality and further development potential
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from conventional semiconductor photodiode to magnetic element (with specific magnetic properties), enabling new functionality through magnetoresistance effects while maintaining photoelectric conversion capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a composite magnetic element structure comprising multiple ferromagnetic layers with different magnetic properties (one with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy and another with in-plane magnetic anisotropy) to achieve both photoelectric conversion and novel magnetic-based functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If a magnetic element with multiple ferromagnetic layers is introduced, then new functionality through magnetoresistance effects is achieved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic element is segmented into distinct functional layers: a first ferromagnetic layer with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy, a second ferromagnetic layer with in-plane magnetic anisotropy, and a spacer layer between them. This segmentation allows each layer to contribute specifically to the overall magnetoresistance effect while maintaining manageable structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a photodetection element, exhibits magnetoresistance effects for enhanced responsiveness, and provides a platform for novel optical-magnetic interactions, thereby achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity
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 integration of the magnetic element allows for the conversion of light intensity changes into electrical signals, enhancing the device's responsiveness and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
light emitted from the laser diode is applied to the magnetic element, which detects changes in light intensity and converts it into electrical signals through magnetoresistance effects
Data Source
AI summary
The optical device includes a magnetic element including a first ferromagnetic layer, a second ferromagnetic layer, and a spacer layer sandwiched between the first ferromagnetic layer and the second ferromagnetic layer, and a laser diode. At least a part of light emitted from the laser diode is applied to the magnetic element.