Skyrmion-Coupled MR Element for Wider Linear Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic field sensors using traditional magnetoresistance (MR) elements have limited linear response ranges, which affects their accuracy in detecting magnetic field changes.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a free layer with a vortex layer and a skyrmion layer magnetically coupled to each other in the MR element, where the skyrmion layer forms skyrmions that reduce vortex annihilation, thereby increasing the linear response range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a traditional MR element is used, then the device structure is simple, but the linear response range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The free layer is segmented into two distinct functional layers: a vortex layer and a skyrmion layer. Each layer serves a specific purpose in extending the linear response range through different magnetic mechanisms, allowing the device to overcome the limitations of a single-layer structure while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite magnetic layer structure combining vortex and skyrmion phases within the same free layer. This composite approach leverages the complementary magnetic properties of both phases to achieve an extended linear response range that neither phase could achieve alone, effectively creating a hybrid magnetic system
2Measurement precision
If the vortex layer is used alone, then the device is easy to manufacture, but vortex annihilation occurs limiting the response range
Solution Approach 1:
The skyrmion layer is positioned adjacent to the vortex layer to preemptively counteract the vortex annihilation process. The skyrmions generate magnetic fields that oppose the annihilation mechanism, effectively preventing the loss of vortex structures before they can occur, thus maintaining stable operation over an extended response range
Solution Approach 2:
The skyrmion layer acts as an intermediary protective layer between the external magnetic field environment and the vulnerable vortex layer. It mediates the interaction by providing a buffer that stabilizes the vortex structures through magnetic coupling, preventing direct harmful effects from causing vortex annihilation
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 configuration of a vortex and skyrmion layer in the MR element enhances the linear response range, leading to improved accuracy and reliability of magnetic field sensors.
Implementation Method 1
a skyrmion layer on the vortex layer and magnetically coupled to the vortex layer
Implementation Method 2
the skyrmion layer is configured to form skyrmions that reduce annihilation of the vortex
Implementation Method 3
An MR element has a resistance that changes in relation to changes in a magnetic field experienced by the MR element
Data Source
AI summary
According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a magnetoresistance (MR) element includes a free layer. In some embodiments, the free layer also includes a vortex layer comprising a vortex and a skyrmion layer magnetically coupled to the vortex layer. In some embodiments, in the skyrmion layer is configured to form skyrmions that reduce annihilation of the vortex thereby increasing a linear response range of the MR element. In some embodiments, the MR element is a tunneling magnetoresistance element or a giant magnetoresistance element. In some embodiments, the MR element includes a barrier layer, wherein the vortex layer is closer to the barrier layer than the skyrmion layer.