Non-magnetic Write Gap Seed Layer for Magnetic Flux Leakage Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

In magnetic recording heads, non-uniform gaps between magnetic materials lead to magnetic flux leakage, reducing write efficiency due to inefficient bit recording and storage in high-density magnetic media.

Innovation Solution

A process involving multiple non-magnetic gap layers and a sacrificial layer is used to form a substantially uniform write gap, with a non-magnetic seed layer enabling high moment magnetic layers to contact the gap without degrading magnetic softness, improving writability and reducing flux leakage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If magnetic elements are placed in closer proximity to one another to increase storage density, then storage capacity is improved, but magnetic flux leakage increases and write efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage densityVSAvoidflux leakage
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The gap layer is divided into multiple segments: a first gap layer adjacent to the main pole layer and a second gap layer adjacent to the second magnetic layer. This segmentation allows each gap layer to be independently optimized for its specific function, with the first gap layer controlling flux from the main pole and the second gap layer providing a non-magnetic seed for the second magnetic layer, thereby reducing flux leakage while maintaining high storage density

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The non-magnetic second gap layer acts as an intermediary between the two magnetic layers. It provides a controlled interface that prevents direct magnetic interaction between the main pole layer and the second magnetic layer, reducing unwanted flux leakage while still allowing the second magnetic layer to be properly formed through the seed layer effect

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If a non-magnetic seed layer is used to enable high moment magnetic layers to contact the gap, then writability is improved, but magnetic softness may be degraded

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovewritabilityVSAvoidmagnetic softness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

Different regions of the gap structure have different properties: the first gap layer is optimized for flux control with specific thickness and material properties, while the second gap layer is optimized as a seed layer for epitaxial growth. This local differentiation allows the second magnetic layer to achieve proper crystal orientation and writability at the interface while the overall gap structure maintains the magnetic softness needed for high-density recording

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 process enhances write performance by minimizing flux leakage and maintaining magnetic softness, allowing for efficient recording and storage in high-density magnetic media.

Implementation Method 1

the second gap layer of non-magnetic material is disposed directly adjacent to the second layer of magnetic material. This allows the gap to serve as a non-magnetic seed for the second layer of magnetic material

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEpitaxy: Epitaxy

Data Source

PatentUS9147407B2Write head having non-magnetic write gap seed layer, and method
Publication Date: 2015.09.29 SEAGATE TECH LLC
  • US9147407B2 patent drawing
  • US9147407B2 patent drawing
  • US9147407B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In accordance with one embodiment, an apparatus includes a main pole layer of magnetic material; a second layer of magnetic material; a first gap layer of non-magnetic material disposed between the main pole layer and the second layer of magnetic material; a second gap layer of non-magnetic material disposed between the main pole layer and the second layer of magnetic material; wherein the second gap layer of non-magnetic material is disposed directly adjacent to the second layer of magnetic material. In accordance with one embodiment, this allows the gap to serve as a non-magnetic seed for the second layer of magnetic material. A method of manufacturing such a device is also described.