Magnetic Memory Write Current Control via Temperature-Dependent Coercive Force

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing magnetic memory technologies face inefficiencies in data writing due to temperature-dependent coercive force changes, requiring separate temperature measurement elements that complicate the structure and integration of memory elements.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic memory design that incorporates a conductive portion laminated on a magnetoresistance element, allowing temperature changes to be measured through resistance value changes, and a control portion to adjust current application based on predetermined conditions, using theories like self-consistently renormalized spin fluctuation and thermal agitation to compensate for temperature variations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate temperature sensor element is provided to measure temperature for compensating coercive force changes, then temperature compensation capability is improved, but device complexity and integration are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature compensation capabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the temperature measurement function with the existing magnetoresistance element by laminating a conductive portion on it. The conductive portion's resistance changes with temperature, allowing temperature measurement without requiring a separate temperature sensor element. This merging approach maintains temperature compensation capability while reducing device complexity and improving integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetoresistance element serves dual functions: it acts as both the memory element and the temperature sensor. The conductive portion laminated on the magnetoresistance element provides temperature-dependent resistance changes that enable temperature measurement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated temperature sensing components while maintaining accurate temperature compensation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If write current is increased to ensure data writing at low temperatures where coercive force is high, then write capability at low temperature is improved, but energy consumption and potential damage at high temperatures are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewrite capability at low temperatureVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adjustment of write current based on real-time temperature measurement. The control portion modifies the write current magnitude according to the measured temperature: higher currents are applied at low temperatures where coercive force is high, while lower currents are used at high temperatures where coercive force is low. This dynamic adaptation ensures reliable writing across the temperature range while optimizing energy consumption and preventing damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the write current parameter based on temperature conditions. By measuring temperature through the conductive portion's resistance and adjusting the write current accordingly, the system adapts the electrical parameter to match the magnetic properties of the ferromagnetic layer at different temperatures, ensuring efficient and safe operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This approach enables efficient temperature compensation without additional measurement elements, enhancing integration and write efficiency across various temperature ranges.

Implementation Method 1

a temperature change of the magnetoresistance element can be determined based on a change in the resistance value of the conductive portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTemperature-dependent resistance: Electrical Resistance

Implementation Method 2

tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) elements using an insulating layer (a tunnel barrier layer or a barrier layer) as a non-magnetic layer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTunnel magnetoresistance: Magnetoresistance

Implementation Method 3

it is known that the coercive force of a ferromagnetic layer depends on the temperature of the ferromagnetic layer. As the temperature of a ferromagnetic layer increases, the coercive force of a ferromagnetic body decreases

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTemperature-dependent coercive force: Ferromagnetism

Data Source

PatentUS10109335B2Apparatus and method for controlling write current of magnetic memory based on temperature dependent coercive force
Publication Date: 2018.10.23 TDK CORP
  • US10109335B2 patent drawing
  • US10109335B2 patent drawing
  • US10109335B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A magnetic memory includes: a magnetoresistance element; a conductive portion that is laminated on the magnetoresistance element; and a control portion configured to determine a driving temperature of the magnetoresistance element based on a change in a resistance value of the conductive portion and to control the amount of current applied to the magnetoresistance element.