Magnetic Element With Perpendicular Magnetization Layers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current magnetic elements, such as spin torque oscillators, face challenges in generating high-frequency magnetic fields with small current inputs, and there is a need for improved designs that enhance the oscillation frequency and stability of magnetic resonance frequencies.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic element comprising a first stacked unit with a first ferromagnetic layer, a second ferromagnetic layer, and a non-magnetic layer, and a third ferromagnetic layer stacked in a specific configuration, where the third ferromagnetic layer's magnetization is magnetically coupled with the second ferromagnetic layer to increase the oscillation frequency and achieve a high-frequency magnetic field with reduced current density.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If a conventional magnetic element structure is used, then the device is simple in structure, but the oscillation frequency is low and cannot achieve high-frequency magnetic field generation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoscillation frequencyVSAvoidmagnetic layer structure
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic element is divided into multiple ferromagnetic layers (first, second, and third ferromagnetic layers) with distinct magnetization directions. The first and third layers have perpendicular magnetization components, while the second layer has in-plane magnetization. This segmentation allows each layer to contribute differently to the oscillation mechanism, enabling high-frequency operation without requiring a single complex magnetic structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces perpendicular magnetization components in the first and third ferromagnetic layers, adding a vertical dimension to the magnetization configuration. This dimensional change from conventional in-plane magnetization to perpendicular magnetization enables access to higher oscillation frequencies by utilizing different magnetic resonance modes.

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

2Speed

If high oscillation frequency is achieved, then high-frequency magnetic field generation is enabled, but the current density required increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoscillation frequencyVSAvoidcurrent density
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention combines spin transfer torque from current flow with magnetic coupling between multiple ferromagnetic layers to achieve high-frequency oscillation. The magnetic coupling between the first, second, and third ferromagnetic layers creates a cooperative effect that amplifies the oscillation frequency while reducing the current density requirement compared to single-layer structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The second ferromagnetic layer with in-plane magnetization acts as an intermediary between the first and third ferromagnetic layers with perpendicular magnetization. This intermediate layer mediates the magnetic coupling and enables efficient energy transfer, allowing high-frequency oscillation to be achieved with lower current density by distributing the energy requirements across multiple coupled layers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If the magnetization configuration is simplified, then the device is easier to manufacture, but the magnetic resonance frequency stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemagnetic resonance frequency stabilityVSAvoidmagnetization configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each ferromagnetic layer is assigned a specific magnetization orientation (perpendicular or in-plane) optimized for its local function within the stack. The first and third layers have perpendicular magnetization for frequency determination, while the second layer has in-plane magnetization for coupling mediation. This local optimization of magnetization quality in each layer ensures overall frequency stability without requiring uniform complex configuration throughout.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 proposed configuration increases the oscillation frequency of the magnetic element, allowing for the generation of high-frequency magnetic fields with stability, achieving frequencies up to twice that of conventional designs and maintaining high oscillation frequencies over a wide current range.

Implementation Method 1

the third ferromagnetic layer's magnetization is magnetically coupled with the second ferromagnetic layer to increase the oscillation frequency and achieve a high-frequency magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

A magnetic element such as a spin torque oscillator (STO) based on a magnetic body has been proposed

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpin transfer torque:

Data Source

PatentUS10096771B2Magnetic element and memory device
Publication Date: 2018.10.09 KIOXIA CORP
  • US10096771B2 patent drawing
  • US10096771B2 patent drawing
  • US10096771B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to one embodiment, a magnetic element includes a first stacked unit and a third ferromagnetic layer. The first stacked unit includes first and second ferromagnetic layers, and a first non-magnetic layer. The first ferromagnetic layer has a first magnetization. The second ferromagnetic layer is separated from the first ferromagnetic layer in a first direction, and has a second magnetization. The first non-magnetic layer is provided between the first and second ferromagnetic layers. The third ferromagnetic layer is stacked with the first stacked unit in the first direction, and has a third magnetization. 2γNzMs is not less than 0.9 times of a magnetic resonance frequency (Hz) of the third ferromagnetic layer, when the second magnetization is Ms (emu/cc), a demagnetizing coefficient of the second ferromagnetic layer is Nz, and a gyro magnetic constant is γ (Hz/Oe).