Spin-Orbit-Torque Element Inclined Magnetization Axis

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

XY-type spin-orbit-torque magnetization rotational elements face issues with integration due to the high width of the first ferromagnetic layer in the X direction, leading to instability in spin injection and poor integration when multiple elements are combined, as the major axis of the first ferromagnetic layer is inclined with respect to both the X and Y directions.

Innovation Solution

Aligning the major axis of the first ferromagnetic layer to the short axis of the spin-orbit torque wiring layer, allowing for magnetization rotation without external magnetic fields and reducing the current in the spin-orbit torque wiring layer, while maintaining efficient integration by inclining the easy axis of magnetization to both the X and Y directions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the major axis of the first ferromagnetic layer is inclined with respect to both the X and Y directions to enable magnetization rotation without external magnetic fields, then the ease of operation is improved, but the width of the first ferromagnetic layer in the X direction increases, leading to poor integration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemagnetization rotation without external magnetic fieldVSAvoidwidth of first ferromagnetic layer in X direction
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by inclining the easy axis of magnetization of the first ferromagnetic layer at a specific angle (e.g., 45 degrees) with respect to both the X and Y directions. This asymmetric orientation enables magnetization rotation without external magnetic fields while the patent simultaneously optimizes the dimensions to control the width in the X direction, balancing the asymmetry benefit with integration requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the orientation parameter of the easy axis of magnetization from being aligned with a single axis (X or Y) to being inclined at a specific angle with respect to both axes. This parameter change enables magnetization rotation without external magnetic fields. Additionally, the patent optimizes other parameters such as the width and length dimensions of the first ferromagnetic layer to maintain acceptable integration density despite the increased width required for the inclined orientation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Area of stationary object

If the width of the first ferromagnetic layer in the X direction is reduced to improve integration, then the area is reduced, but spin injection becomes unstable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewidth of first ferromagnetic layer in X directionVSAvoidspin injection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by optimizing the spatial distribution and dimensions of the first ferromagnetic layer. Specifically, the patent controls the width in the X direction and the length in the Y direction to maintain an appropriate aspect ratio that ensures stable spin injection from the spin-orbit torque wiring layer while minimizing the overall area. This local dimensional optimization allows the patent to achieve both compact size and reliable spin injection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary action by carefully designing and optimizing the dimensions and orientation of the first ferromagnetic layer before actual device fabrication and integration. By pre-calculating and pre-optimizing the width, length, and easy axis orientation, the patent ensures that spin injection stability is guaranteed before the device is manufactured, avoiding the need for post-fabrication adjustments and ensuring reliable operation from the outset.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Area of stationary object

If the easy axis of magnetization is aligned with the X direction to reduce width, then the area is reduced, but external magnetic fields are required for magnetization rotation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewidth of first ferromagnetic layer in X directionVSAvoidrequirement for external magnetic field
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves this contradiction by introducing asymmetry in the magnetization orientation. Instead of aligning the easy axis with the X direction (which would require external magnetic fields), the patent inclines the easy axis at a specific angle with respect to both X and Y directions. This asymmetric orientation enables the magnetization to be rotated using only spin-orbit torque from the wiring layer, eliminating the need for external magnetic fields while maintaining a compact footprint.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from a one-dimensional alignment (easy axis along X or Y) to a two-dimensional inclined orientation (easy axis at an angle with respect to both X and Y). This dimensional change in the magnetization orientation enables the system to achieve magnetization rotation without external magnetic fields by utilizing the spin-orbit coupling effect more effectively, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining compact dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 approach enables magnetization rotation without external magnetic fields, reduces the width of the spin-orbit-torque magnetization rotational element, and improves integration by stabilizing spin injection, making it suitable for high-speed operation and compact integration of multiple elements.

Implementation Method 1

a pure spin current is generated by a spin-orbit interaction or a Rashba effect at the interface of dissimilar materials

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpin-orbit interaction:

Implementation Method 2

a pure spin current is generated by a spin-orbit interaction or a Rashba effect at the interface of dissimilar materials

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRashba effect:

Implementation Method 3

The pure spin current causes a spin-orbit torque (SOT) and magnetization rotation of a ferromagnetic material disposed on a spin-orbit torque wiring is generated due to the SOT

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpin-orbit torque:

Implementation Method 4

the first ferromagnetic layer has shape anisotropy and has a major axis in a Y direction orthogonal to the X direction on a plane in which the spin-orbit torque wiring layer extends

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShape anisotropy: Anisotropy

Data Source

PatentUS11521776B2Spin-orbit-torque magnetization rotational element, spin-orbit-torque magnetoresistance effect element, and spin-orbit-torque magnetization rotational element manufacturing method
Publication Date: 2022.12.06 TDK CORP
  • US11521776B2 patent drawing
  • US11521776B2 patent drawing
  • US11521776B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A spin-orbit-torque magnetization rotational element includes: a spin-orbit torque wiring layer which extends in an X direction; and a first ferromagnetic layer which is laminated on the spin-orbit torque wiring layer, wherein the first ferromagnetic layer has shape anisotropy and has a major axis in a Y direction orthogonal to the X direction on a plane in which the spin-orbit torque wiring layer extends, and wherein the easy axis of magnetization of the first ferromagnetic layer is inclined with respect to the X direction and the Y direction orthogonal to the X direction on a plane in which the spin-orbit torque wiring layer extends.