Spin-Orbit Torque Magnetic Sensor With Opposed Current Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spin-orbit-torque (SOT)-based magnetic sensors require additional circuit components, increased area, and higher power consumption due to the need for separate current applications in opposite directions to measure magnetic fields.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic sensor design featuring a pair of sensing elements with opposite current directions, allowing simultaneous measurement of Hall voltages using a single current application, eliminating the need for additional circuits and reducing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dual current applications are used to measure magnetic field range and sensitivity, then measurement accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous measurement capability by having both sensing layers operate simultaneously with opposite current directions. Instead of applying current sequentially in two separate modes, both layers continuously measure Hall voltages in their respective current directions, providing uninterrupted magnetic field detection while eliminating the need for repeated current applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing layers are configured to alternately respond to magnetic fields in opposite current directions, creating a periodic measurement pattern that captures both positive and negative magnetic field ranges. This periodic action allows the system to obtain complete magnetic field information through controlled current direction switching while maintaining efficient power usage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional circuit components are added to handle AC/DC modes, then sensor adaptability is improved, but device area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dual sensing layer structure provides universal functionality by inherently supporting both AC and DC measurement modes without requiring additional circuit components. The first and second sensing layers can simultaneously handle different measurement requirements, making the sensor adaptable to various operating conditions while maintaining a compact area through shared circuit architecture.
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 proposed design enables efficient magnetic field measurement with reduced power consumption and circuit complexity, while maintaining sensitivity and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
when a current is applied through an electrode in the same direction as a magnetic field that is being applied in a specific direction, the sensing layer measures a Hall voltage VH (+). And when a magnetic field or a current is being applied in the opposite direction, the sensing layer measures a Hall voltage VH (−)
Implementation Method 2
This occurs depending on the easy magnetization axis of a ferromagnetic material, and the angle between an external magnetic field and the current due to a spin-orbit interaction
Data Source
AI summary
A spin-orbit-torque (SOT)-based magnetic sensor is provided. The magnetic sensor includes a substrate, an electrode layer formed on the substrate, and a pair of first and second sensing elements stacked on the substrate so as to be connected to the electrode layer, wherein directions of respective currents flowing through the first and second sensing elements via the electrode layer are opposite to each other.