Magnetic Sensor Element with Nonmagnetic Mediator for Sensitivity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic sensors face challenges in achieving high sensitivity due to limitations in magnetic field detection and sensitivity, particularly when the magnetic elements are not optimally configured with respect to magnetic members and structures.
Innovation Solution
The magnetic sensor design includes a first magnetic element with a magnetic layer, counter magnetic layer, and nonmagnetic layer, positioned between magnetic members and structures, where the magnetic element is separated from side magnetic layers and aligned in a specific direction, enhancing magnetic field detection sensitivity by concentrating the magnetic field and reducing demagnetic fields.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the magnetic element is positioned close to side magnetic layers to enhance magnetic field detection, then the magnetic field detection sensitivity is improved, but the demagnetic field increases and reduces measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
A nonmagnetic layer is introduced as an intermediary between the magnetic element and the side magnetic layers. This nonmagnetic layer physically separates the magnetic element from the side magnetic layers, preventing direct magnetic interaction that would generate demagnetic fields, while still allowing the magnetic element to detect external magnetic fields through the magnetic members.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic sensor is divided into functionally distinct segments: magnetic members for field concentration, a magnetic element for detection, side magnetic layers for field guidance, and a nonmagnetic layer for isolation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without interfering with others, resolving the contradiction between detection sensitivity and demagnetic field effects.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the magnetic element is separated from side magnetic layers to reduce demagnetic fields, then measurement precision is improved, but magnetic field detection sensitivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The nonmagnetic layer acts as a mediator that enables physical separation between the magnetic element and side magnetic layers, reducing demagnetic field effects, while the magnetic members serve as intermediaries to concentrate external magnetic fields onto the magnetic element, maintaining detection sensitivity despite the separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention optimizes parameters such as the thickness of the nonmagnetic layer and the positioning of magnetic members to balance two competing requirements: maintaining sufficient proximity for high detection sensitivity while ensuring adequate separation to minimize demagnetic field effects. This parameter optimization resolves the apparent contradiction.
3Measurement precision
If magnetic members are added to concentrate magnetic field, then sensitivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic members are integrated with the side magnetic layers into a unified magnetic circuit structure. This merging allows the side magnetic layers to serve dual functions: guiding magnetic fields and supporting the magnetic members, thereby concentrating magnetic fields without proportionally increasing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The side magnetic layers are designed to perform multiple functions: they guide magnetic fields, provide structural support for magnetic members, and contribute to overall field concentration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving improved sensitivity.
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 configuration results in higher sensitivity and effective magnetic field detection, as demonstrated by simulations showing increased average magnetic flux density and improved electric resistance changes in response to external magnetic fields.
Implementation Method 1
a first magnetic element including a first magnetic layer, a first counter magnetic layer, and a first nonmagnetic layer provided between the first magnetic layer and the first counter magnetic layer
Implementation Method 2
improved electric resistance changes in response to external magnetic fields
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment of the invention, a magnetic sensor includes a first element part. The first element part includes a first magnetic element, first and s second structures, a first magnetic member, and a second magnetic member. A direction from the first magnetic layer toward the first counter magnetic layer is along a first direction. The first structure includes a first side magnetic layer. The second structure includes a second side magnetic layer. The first magnetic element is between the first structure and the second structure in a second direction crossing the first direction. The first magnetic element is separated from the first side magnetic layer and the second side magnetic layer. A direction from the first side magnetic layer toward the first magnetic member is along the first direction. A direction from the second side magnetic layer toward the second magnetic member is along the first direction.