Magnetic Sensor Device Integrating Angle and Strength Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic sensor systems that detect both the rotation and linear motion of a target object using magnetic fields struggle with size reduction due to separate provision of angle and magnetic field strength sensors.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic sensor device with multiple detection circuits, each including a magnetoresistive element with a fixed magnetization pinned layer and a free layer having a magnetic vortex structure, generates periodic detection signals that change with the direction and strength of the target magnetic field, allowing a processor to calculate both angle and strength detection values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate angle sensor and magnetic field strength sensor are provided to detect both rotation and linear motion, then detection capability is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the angle sensor and magnetic field strength sensor into a single integrated magnetic sensor device. Multiple detection circuits, each containing magnetoresistive elements with free layers having magnetic vortex structures, are integrated on one substrate to simultaneously detect both the direction (angle) and strength of the magnetic field, thereby reducing device size while maintaining comprehensive detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic sensor device is designed with multi-functionality to perform both angle detection and magnetic field strength detection using the same device. The detection circuits utilize magnetoresistive elements with specific magnetic vortex structures that respond to magnetic field characteristics, enabling the single device to serve multiple detection purposes without requiring separate dedicated sensors.
2Volume of moving object
If multiple detection circuits with magnetoresistive elements are integrated on one substrate, then device size is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection function into multiple independent detection circuits, each containing magnetoresistive elements with free layers having magnetic vortex structures. These segmented detection circuits are integrated on a single substrate, allowing for modular manufacturing and testing while achieving compact device size. Each detection circuit can be independently optimized and fabricated using standard semiconductor manufacturing processes.
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
Enables the detection of both the direction and strength of a magnetic field with a simple configuration, facilitating compact design and accurate angle and strength measurements.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetoresistive element including a magnetization pinned layer having a magnetization whose direction is fixed, and a free layer having a magnetic vortex structure
Implementation Method 2
configured so that a center of the magnetic vortex structure moves depending on the target magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic sensor device includes a magnetic sensor and a processor. Each of a plurality of detection circuits of the magnetic sensor includes a magnetoresistive (MR) element. The MR element includes a free layer having a magnetic vortex structure and configured so that the center of the magnetic vortex structure moves depending on a target magnetic field. The plurality of detection circuits are configured to generate a plurality of detection signals each of which changes periodically with periodic changes in the direction of the target magnetic field and whose amplitude changes with a change in the strength of the target magnetic field. The processor is configured to generate an angle detection value and a strength detection value based on the plurality of detection signals.