Magnetic Memory Field-Line Selection for Lower-Power Writing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic memories require high power consumption to reliably write data due to the need for generating a magnetic field through field lines.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic memory design that includes a control circuit to selectively cause a current to flow through one of two field lines positioned on either side of a magnetic member, using a magnetic circuit with yokes and yoke portions to limit power consumption by reducing parallel magnetic resistances and avoiding magnetic saturation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current flows through field lines to generate magnetic field for data writing, then data writing reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic memory is divided into multiple independent magnetic members, each with its own field line. The control circuit selectively activates only the field line corresponding to the target magnetic member for data writing, segmenting the current path to avoid unnecessary power consumption in other field lines while ensuring reliable writing in the active one.
Solution Approach 2:
Each field line is designed with specific local properties including magnetic resistance values that are optimized for its function. The control circuit adjusts current magnitude based on the specific field line's characteristics, applying local optimization to achieve reliable data writing with minimal power consumption for each individual field line.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple field lines are used to write data into magnetic members, then data writing capability is improved, but power consumption increases due to parallel magnetic resistances
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit dynamically selects which field line(s) to activate based on the specific data writing requirements. Rather than continuously powering all field lines, the system dynamically adjusts the current distribution to only active field lines, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining the capability to write data into any magnetic member.
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 design achieves data writing with reduced power consumption by generating a sufficient magnetic field using a lower current, thereby minimizing energy usage while maintaining effective data writing capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
When data is written into the magnetic member, the current flows through a field line to generate a magnetic field around the field line. The data is written by changing a magnetization direction of the magnetic member with the generated magnetic field.
Implementation Method 2
using a magnetic circuit with yokes and yoke portions to limit power consumption by reducing parallel magnetic resistances and avoiding magnetic saturation
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic memory includes first magnetic members extending along a first direction. First and second wirings are spaced apart from the first magnetic members on a second end side of the first magnetic members. At least one of the first magnetic members is between the first and second wirings in a plan view from the first direction. A second magnetic member has a first portion facing the first wiring and electrically connected to a first magnetic member on one side and a second portion facing the first wiring on an opposite side. The second portion is electrically connected to another first magnetic member. A control circuit causes a current to flow through one of the first wiring or the second wiring when data is written into the first magnetic member that is between the first wiring and the second wiring.