Magnetic Sensor Shield Configuration for Spatial Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic sensors used in magnetic recording devices face challenges in achieving high spatial resolution for detecting magnetic fields, which limits the precision of information recording and retrieval.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic sensor design incorporating multiple shields and magnetic layers with specific configurations, including antiferromagnetic coupling and conductive regions, to enhance detection resolution by varying the orientation of magnetization and suppressing unnecessary spin transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional magnetic sensor with simple shield configuration is used, then the device complexity is low, but the spatial resolution and detection precision are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic sensor is divided into multiple functional segments including first and second shields, first and second magnetic layers, and multiple nonmagnetic layers. Each segment serves a specific function in detecting different components of the magnetic field, thereby improving spatial resolution through segmented detection architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a stacked three-dimensional configuration with magnetic layers arranged in multiple layers along the thickness direction, and shields positioned at different spatial locations. This multi-dimensional arrangement enables simultaneous detection of magnetic field components in different directions, enhancing spatial resolution without merely increasing planar complexity
2Measurement precision
If multiple magnetic layers with antiferromagnetic coupling are introduced to improve detection precision, then the measurement precision improves, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Nonmagnetic layers are introduced as intermediary structures between the magnetic layers and shields. These nonmagnetic layers serve as spacing and isolation structures that prevent direct magnetic interaction while maintaining precise geometric relationships, thereby facilitating the formation of antiferromagnetic coupling configurations with controlled precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent carefully controls the thickness parameters of magnetic layers and nonmagnetic layers to achieve desired magnetic coupling strengths and detection sensitivities. By optimizing layer thicknesses and material compositions, the design achieves high detection precision while maintaining feasible manufacturing tolerance ranges
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 allows for improved detection of magnetic fields with high spatial resolution, enabling precise recording and retrieval of information on magnetic recording media.
Implementation Method 1
The second magnetic layer is electrically connected to the fifth shield and the sixth shield. The first member includes a first region and a second region. The first region is provided between the third shield and the first magnetic layer. The second region is provided between the first magnetic layer and the fourth shield.
Implementation Method 2
A second direction from the third shield to the fourth shield crosses a first direction from the first shield to the second shield. The fifth shield is provided between the third shield and the second shield. The sixth shield is provided between the fourth shield and the second shield. A direction from the fifth shield to the sixth shield is along the second direction.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a magnetic sensor includes first to sixth shields, first and second magnetic layers, a first member, and first to fourth terminals. The first magnetic layer is provided between the first shield and the second shield. The first magnetic layer is between the third shield and the fourth shield in the second direction. The second magnetic layer is provided between the first magnetic layer and the second shield. The second magnetic layer is between the fifth shield and the sixth shield in the second direction. The second magnetic layer is electrically connected to the fifth shield and the sixth shield. The first member includes a first region and a second region. The first region is provided between the third shield and the first magnetic layer. The second region is provided between the first magnetic layer and the fourth shield.