LWIR Sensor Using Magnetic Resistance for Cost Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current long-wave infrared (LWIR) sensors, particularly quantum sensors, are expensive and primarily used for military purposes due to their high cost and requirement for low temperatures, while thermal sensors face challenges in miniaturization and manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A miniaturized LWIR sensor design incorporating a magnetic resistance device with a tunneling barrier layer and an LWIR absorption layer on a substrate, which changes resistance based on temperature, allowing for efficient absorption and heat generation from LWIR rays, and is manufactured using a semiconductor process for reduced costs and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If quantum sensors are used for LWIR detection, then detection precision and NETD characteristics are improved, but cost and operating temperature requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive quantum sensors with thermal sensors that use ordinary semiconductor materials. The magnetic resistance device is constructed from readily available materials including magnetic layers and tunneling barrier layers that can be deposited using standard semiconductor fabrication techniques, dramatically reducing cost while maintaining adequate detection precision for civilian applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating principle from quantum detection (requiring cryogenic temperatures) to thermal detection (operating at room temperature). By using the temperature dependence of magnetic resistance and thermal expansion of the membrane structure, the sensor achieves functional detection without liquid nitrogen cooling, simplifying the system and reducing operational costs
2Measurement precision
If quantum sensors are used for LWIR detection, then detection precision is improved, but device complexity and vacuum requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex quantum sensor systems requiring vacuum maintenance with simple thermal sensors based on ordinary semiconductor materials. The magnetic resistance device structure with its multiple layers can be fully fabricated using standard semiconductor processes in a normal atmosphere, eliminating vacuum chambers and complex maintenance requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the quantum mechanical detection mechanism with a thermal-mechanical system. The membrane structure undergoes thermal expansion when heated by absorbed infrared radiation, changing the spacing between magnetic layers and thus the magnetic resistance. This mechanical-thermal approach eliminates the need for complex quantum vacuum systems
3Ease of manufacture
If thermal sensors are used for LWIR detection, then cost is reduced, but miniaturization capability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sensor into distinct functional layers: membrane layer, magnetic resistance device layer, and readout circuit layer. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and fabricated using standard semiconductor processes, enabling miniaturization while maintaining thermal sensor cost advantages
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from planar sensor designs to three-dimensional stacked structures. The magnetic resistance device is formed with vertical layering (magnetic layers separated by tunneling barrier layers), and the membrane structure provides vertical spacing control. This vertical integration dramatically reduces the horizontal footprint, enabling miniaturization while maintaining thermal detection functionality
4Ease of manufacture
If thermal sensors are used for LWIR detection, then cost is reduced, but manufacturing complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the magnetic resistance device and surrounding structures to serve multiple functions simultaneously. The membrane layer provides both structural support and thermal isolation; the tunneling barrier layer provides both magnetic isolation and structural definition; the same fabrication processes deposit both magnetic layers and non-magnetic layers. This multi-functionality reduces manufacturing steps and complexity while maintaining cost advantages
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 solution provides a cost-effective, miniaturized LWIR sensor with improved thermal stability and sensitivity, suitable for civilian applications, while maintaining high detection precision and reduced manufacturing time and costs.
Implementation Method 1
an LWIR absorption layer on the magnetic resistance device, wherein a resistance of the magnetic resistance device changes based on temperature, and wherein the LWIR absorption layer is configured to absorb LWIR rays and generate heat
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic resistance device on the substrate, wherein a resistance of the magnetic resistance device changes based on temperature
Implementation Method 3
A thermal stability of the magnetic resistance device may be less than 10
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a long-wave infrared (LWIR) sensor including a substrate, a magnetic resistance device on the substrate, and an LWIR absorption layer on the magnetic resistance device, wherein a resistance of the magnetic resistance device changes based on temperature, and wherein the LWIR absorption layer is configured to absorb LWIR rays and generate heat.