Reconfigurable Susceptometer for Thin Film Magnetic Measurements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current susceptometers face challenges in accurately measuring magnetic susceptibility of thin semiconducting or ferromagnetic films due to limitations in generating and controlling alternating magnetic fields, which affects the precision of Hall voltage and current-in-plane resistance measurements.
Innovation Solution
A susceptometer design featuring a substrate with multiple electrodes and a solenoid that generates a primary magnetic field, allowing for the measurement of Hall voltage and current-in-plane resistance by subjecting the sample to direct and alternating currents, while being reconfigurable to adapt to different measurement configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a solenoid is used to generate alternating magnetic field, then magnetic susceptibility measurement capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions (Hall voltage measurement and current-in-plane resistance measurement) into a single integrated susceptometer device. The electrode array is designed to perform both types of measurements simultaneously or sequentially, eliminating the need for separate measurement devices and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The susceptometer is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple types of magnetic susceptibility measurements (Hall voltage and current-in-plane resistance) using the same basic device structure. The reconfigurable electrode connections allow the device to adapt to different measurement configurations, making it a multi-functional instrument that improves measurement capabilities without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electrodes are used for reconfigurable measurements, then measurement versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode connections in the susceptometer are designed to be reconfigurable, allowing the device to dynamically adapt its measurement configuration. The electrodes can be connected in different arrangements (series, parallel, or individual connections) depending on the measurement requirements, enabling the device to transform from a static structure to a dynamic, adaptable measurement system that handles both Hall voltage and resistance measurements.
3Measurement precision
If direct current and alternating current are applied simultaneously, then measurement accuracy is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The susceptometer employs periodic alternating current excitation combined with direct current bias to perform measurements. The AC component is applied periodically to probe the magnetic susceptibility, while the DC component provides a steady baseline. This periodic action allows for accurate differentiation between the DC resistance signal and the AC-induced Hall voltage signal, improving measurement accuracy while managing energy consumption through controlled excitation cycles.
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 design enhances the precision and versatility of magnetic susceptometry by enabling accurate measurements of Hall voltage and current-in-plane resistance, effectively addressing the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
receive an alternating current and produce a primary magnetic field based on the alternating current
Implementation Method 2
measure at least one of a Hall voltage of the sample
Implementation Method 3
measure at least one of a Hall voltage of the sample or a current-in-plane resistance of the sample
Data Source
AI summary
A susceptometer includes: a substrate; a plurality of electrodes including: a first pair of electrodes disposed on the substrate; a second pair of electrodes disposed on the substrate, the second pair of electrodes arranged collinear with the first pair of electrodes to form a set of aligned electrodes; and a third pair of electrodes disposed on the substrate, the third pair of electrodes arranged noncollinearly with set of aligned electrodes; and a solenoid circumscribingly disposed around the electrodes to: receive the sample such that the solenoid is circumscribingly disposed around the sample; receive an alternating current and produce an primary magnetic field based on the alternating current; and subject the sample to the primary magnetic field.