U.S. patent application number 16/281180 was filed with the patent office on 2020-02-13 for sensor.
This patent application is currently assigned to KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA. The applicant listed for this patent is KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA. Invention is credited to Shotaro BABA, Yoshihiko FUJI, Michiko HARA, Yoshihiro HIGASHI, Kazuaki OKAMOTO.
Application Number | 20200049574 16/281180 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 69405688 |
Filed Date | 2020-02-13 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200049574 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
FUJI; Yoshihiko ; et
al. |
February 13, 2020 |
SENSOR
Abstract
According to one embodiment, a sensor includes a film portion,
one or more detectors fixed to the film portion, and a processor.
The detector includes first and second detecting elements. The
first detecting element includes a first magnetic layer. The second
detecting element includes a second magnetic layer. A first change
rate of a first signal is higher than a second change rate of the
first signal. The first signal corresponds to a first electrical
resistance of the first detecting element. A change rate of a
second signal with respect to the change of the magnitude of the
strain is higher than the second change rate. The second signal
corresponds to a second electrical resistance of the second
detecting element. The processor is configured to perform at least
a first operation of outputting a second value. The second value is
based on the second signal and a first value.
Inventors: |
FUJI; Yoshihiko; (Kawasaki,
JP) ; HIGASHI; Yoshihiro; (Komatsu, JP) ;
HARA; Michiko; (Yokohama, JP) ; OKAMOTO; Kazuaki;
(Yokohama, JP) ; BABA; Shotaro; (Kawasaki,
JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
69405688 |
Appl. No.: |
16/281180 |
Filed: |
February 21, 2019 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01F 10/3272 20130101;
H01F 1/0009 20130101; H01F 10/324 20130101; G01L 1/125 20130101;
G01B 7/24 20130101; H01L 41/20 20130101; H01L 41/125 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G01L 1/12 20060101
G01L001/12; H01L 41/12 20060101 H01L041/12; H01F 1/00 20060101
H01F001/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 13, 2018 |
JP |
2018-152395 |
Claims
1. A sensor, comprising: a film portion; one or more detectors
fixed to the film portion; and a processor, a magnitude of a strain
of the film portion including a first range, and a second range
larger than the first range, the detector including a first
detecting element and a second detecting element, the first
detecting element including a first magnetic layer, the second
detecting element including a second magnetic layer, a first change
rate of a first signal being higher than a second change rate of
the first signal, the first signal corresponding to a first
electrical resistance of the first detecting element, the first
change rate being a change rate of the first signal with respect to
a change of the magnitude of the strain within the first range, the
second change rate being a change rate of the first signal with
respect to a change of the magnitude of the strain within the
second range, a change rate of a second signal with respect to the
change of the magnitude of the strain within the second range being
higher than the second change rate, the second signal corresponding
to a second electrical resistance of the second detecting element,
the processor being configured to perform at least a first
operation of outputting a second value, the second value being
based on the second signal and a first value, the first value being
based on the first signal when a first strain is generated in the
film portion, the second signal being when the first strain is
generated in the film portion.
2. The sensor according to claim 1, wherein a magnitude of the
first strain is within the second range.
3. The sensor according to claim 2, wherein the first value
includes information relating to a direction of the first strain,
and the second value includes information relating to the magnitude
of the first strain.
4. The sensor according to claim 1, wherein a change rate of the
second signal of the second detecting element with respect to the
change of the strain within the first range is lower than the first
change rate.
5. The sensor according to claim 1, wherein the first change rate
is 5 times the second change rate or more.
6. The sensor according to claim 1, wherein the first detecting
element further includes a first opposing magnetic layer, and a
first nonmagnetic layer provided between the first magnetic layer
and the first opposing magnetic layer, the second detecting element
further includes a second opposing magnetic layer, and a second
nonmagnetic layer provided between the second magnetic layer and
the second opposing magnetic layer, and a magnetization of the
first opposing magnetic layer is aligned with a magnetization of
the second opposing magnetic layer.
7. The sensor according to claim 6, wherein the film portion has a
first surface, one of the first magnetic layer or the first
opposing magnetic layer is provided between the first surface and
the other of the first magnetic layer or the first opposing
magnetic layer, and one of the second magnetic layer or the second
opposing magnetic layer is provided between the first surface and
the other of the second magnetic layer or the second opposing
magnetic layer.
8. The sensor according to claim 6, wherein the detector further
includes a third detecting element and a fourth detecting element,
the third detecting element includes a third magnetic layer, a
third opposing magnetic layer, and a third nonmagnetic layer
provided between the third magnetic layer and the third opposing
magnetic layer, the fourth detecting element includes a fourth
magnetic layer, a fourth opposing magnetic layer, and a fourth
nonmagnetic layer provided between the fourth magnetic layer and
the fourth opposing magnetic layer, a magnetization of the third
opposing magnetic layer is aligned with a magnetization of the
fourth opposing magnetic layer, and the magnetization of the third
opposing magnetic layer crosses the magnetization of the first
opposing magnetic layer.
9. The sensor according to claim 8, wherein a third change rate of
a third signal corresponding to a third electrical resistance of
the third detecting element is higher than a fourth change rate of
the third signal, the third change rate being a change rate of the
third signal with respect to the change of the strain within the
first range, the fourth change rate being a change rate of the
third signal with respect to the change of the strain within the
second range, a change rate of a fourth signal with respect to the
change of the strain within the second range is higher than the
fourth change rate, the fourth signal corresponding to a fourth
electrical resistance of the fourth detecting element, and the
processor is configured to further perform at least a second
operation of outputting a fourth value based on the fourth signal
and a third value, the third value being based on the third signal
when the first strain is generated in the film portion, the fourth
signal being when the first strain is generated in the film
portion.
10. The sensor according to claim 9, wherein the third value
includes information relating to a direction of the first strain,
and the fourth value includes information relating to a magnitude
of the first strain.
11. The sensor according to claim 9, wherein a change rate of a
signal with respect to the change of the strain of the first range
is lower than the third change rate, the signal corresponding to
the fourth electrical resistance of the fourth detecting
element.
12. The sensor according to claim 8, wherein an angle between the
magnetization of the third opposing magnetic layer and the
magnetization of the first opposing magnetic layer is not less than
45 degrees and not more than 135 degrees.
13. A sensor, comprising: a film portion; and one or more detectors
fixed to the film portion, the detector including first to fourth
detecting elements, the first detecting element including a first
magnetic layer, a first opposing magnetic layer, and a first
nonmagnetic layer provided between the first magnetic layer and the
first opposing magnetic layer, the second detecting element
including a second magnetic layer, a second opposing magnetic
layer, and a second nonmagnetic layer provided between the second
magnetic layer and the second opposing magnetic layer, the third
detecting element including a third magnetic layer, a third
opposing magnetic layer, and a third nonmagnetic layer provided
between the third magnetic layer and the third opposing magnetic
layer, the fourth detecting element including a fourth magnetic
layer, a fourth opposing magnetic layer, and a fourth nonmagnetic
layer provided between the fourth magnetic layer and the fourth
opposing magnetic layer, a magnetization of the first opposing
magnetic layer being aligned with a magnetization of the second
opposing magnetic layer, a magnetization of the third opposing
magnetic layer being aligned with a magnetization of the fourth
opposing magnetic layer, the magnetization of the third opposing
magnetic layer crossing the magnetization of the first opposing
magnetic layer, a magnitude of a strain of the film portion
including a first range, and a second range larger than the first
range, a first change rate of a first signal being higher than a
second change rate of the first signal, the first signal
corresponding to a first electrical resistance of the first
detecting element, the first change rate being a change rate of the
first signal with respect to a change of the magnitude of the
strain within the first range, the second change rate being a
change rate of the first signal with respect to a change of the
magnitude of the strain within the second range, a change rate of a
second signal with respect to the change of the magnitude of the
strain within the second range being higher than the second change
rate, the second signal corresponding to a second electrical
resistance of the second detecting element, a third change rate of
a third signal being higher than a fourth change rate of the third
signal, the third signal corresponding to a third electrical
resistance of the third detecting element, the third change rate
being a change rate of the third signal with respect to the change
of the strain within the first range, the fourth change rate being
a change rate of the third signal with respect to the change of the
strain within the second range, a change rate of a fourth signal
with respect to the change of the strain within the second range
being higher than the fourth change rate, the fourth signal
corresponding to a fourth electrical resistance of the fourth
detecting element.
14. The sensor according to claim 13, wherein the film portion has
a first surface, one of the first magnetic layer or the first
opposing magnetic layer is provided between the first surface and
the other of the first magnetic layer or the first opposing
magnetic layer, one of the second magnetic layer or the second
opposing magnetic layer is provided between the first surface and
the other of the second magnetic layer or the second opposing
magnetic layer, one of the third magnetic layer or the third
opposing magnetic layer is provided between the first surface and
the other of the third magnetic layer or the third opposing
magnetic layer, one of the fourth magnetic layer or the fourth
opposing magnetic layer is provided between the first surface and
the other of the fourth magnetic layer or the fourth opposing
magnetic layer, a first length of the first magnetic layer along a
first direction is longer than a first cross-direction length of
the first magnetic layer along a second direction crossing the
first direction, the first direction and the second direction being
along the first surface, a second length of the second magnetic
layer along the first direction is longer than a second
cross-direction length of the second magnetic layer along the
second direction, a third length of the third magnetic layer along
a third direction is longer than a third cross-direction length of
the third magnetic layer along a fourth direction crossing the
third direction, the third direction and the fourth direction being
along the first surface, and a fourth length of the fourth magnetic
layer along the third direction is longer than a fourth
cross-direction length of the fourth magnetic layer along the
fourth direction.
15. The sensor according to claim 14, wherein the third direction
crosses the first direction, and the fourth direction crosses the
second direction.
16. The sensor according to claim 14, wherein a ratio of the first
length to the first cross-direction length is lower than a ratio of
the second length to the second cross-direction length, and a ratio
of the third length to the third cross-direction length is lower
than a ratio of the fourth length to the fourth cross-direction
length.
17. The sensor according to claim 13, wherein the first to fourth
magnetic layers include FeB, and the first to fourth opposing
magnetic layers include NiFe.
18. The sensor according to claim 1, wherein the detector includes
a plurality of the first detecting elements, at least two of the
plurality of first detecting elements are connected in series, and
the first electrical resistance includes electrical resistances of
the plurality of first detecting elements.
19. The sensor according to claim 1, further comprising an adhesive
layer provided for at least a portion of the film portion.
20. The sensor according to claim 19, further comprising a release
sheet, the adhesive, layer being provided between the release sheet
and the at least a portion of the film portion, the release sheet
being peelable from the adhesive layer.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is based upon and claims the benefit of
priority from Japanese Patent Application No.2018-152395, filed on
Aug. 13, 2018; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein
by reference.
FIELD
[0002] Embodiments described herein relate generally to a
sensor.
BACKGROUND
[0003] For example, there is a sensor that uses a magnetic layer.
For example, strain is detected by the sensor.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] FIG. 1A to FIG. 1D are schematic views illustrating a sensor
according to a first embodiment;
[0005] FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the
sensor according to the first embodiment;
[0006] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E are schematic views illustrating a sensor
according to a second embodiment;
[0007] FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view illustrating the sensor
according to the second embodiment;
[0008] FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view illustrating a sensor
according to the second embodiment;
[0009] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B are schematic perspective views
illustrating a portion of a sensor according to the embodiment;
[0010] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7D are schematic plan views illustrating
portions of the sensor according to the embodiment;
[0011] FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view illustrating a portion of a
sensor according to the embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a sensor
according to the embodiment;
[0013] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a
sensor according to the embodiment; and
[0014] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the
sensor according to the embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0015] According to one embodiment, a sensor includes a film
portion, one or more detectors fixed to the film portion, and a
processor. A magnitude of a strain of the film portion includes a
first range, and a second range larger than the first range. The
detector includes a first detecting element and a second detecting
element. The first detecting element includes a first magnetic
layer. The second detecting element includes a second magnetic
layer. A first change rate of a first signal is higher than a
second change rate of the first signal. The first signal
corresponds to a first electrical resistance of the first detecting
element. The first change rate is a change rate of the first signal
with respect to a change of the magnitude of the strain within the
first range. The second change rate is a change rate of the first
signal with respect to a change of the magnitude of the strain
within the second range. A change rate of a second signal with
respect to the change of the magnitude of the strain within the
second range is higher than the second change rate. The second
signal corresponds to a second electrical resistance of the second
detecting element. The processor is configured to perform at least
a first operation of outputting a second value. The second value is
based on the second signal and a first value. The first value is
based on the first signal when a first strain is generated in the
film portion. The second signal is when the first strain is
generated in the film portion.
[0016] According to another embodiment, a sensor includes a film
portion, and one or more detectors fixed to the film portion. The
detector includes first to fourth detecting elements. The first
detecting element includes a first magnetic layer, a first opposing
magnetic layer, and a first nonmagnetic layer provided between the
first magnetic layer and the first opposing magnetic layer. The
second detecting element includes a second magnetic layer, a second
opposing magnetic layer, and a second nonmagnetic layer provided
between the second magnetic layer and the second opposing magnetic
layer. The third detecting element includes a third magnetic layer,
a third opposing magnetic layer, and a third nonmagnetic layer
provided between the third magnetic layer and the third opposing
magnetic layer. The fourth detecting element includes a fourth
magnetic layer, a fourth opposing magnetic layer, and a fourth
nonmagnetic layer provided between the fourth magnetic layer and
the fourth opposing magnetic layer. A magnetization of the first
opposing magnetic layer is aligned with a magnetization of the
second opposing magnetic layer. A magnetization of the third
opposing magnetic layer is aligned with a magnetization of the
fourth opposing magnetic layer. The magnetization of the third
opposing magnetic layer crosses the magnetization of the first
opposing magnetic layer. A magnitude of a strain of the film
portion includes a first range, and a second range larger than the
first range. A first change rate of a first signal is higher than a
second change rate of the first signal. The first signal
corresponds to a first electrical resistance of the first detecting
element. The first change rate is a change rate of the first signal
with respect to a change of the magnitude of the strain within the
first range. The second change rate is a change rate of the first
signal with respect to a change of the magnitude of the strain
within the second range. A change rate of a second signal with
respect to the change of the magnitude of the strain within the
second range is higher than the second change rate. The second
signal corresponds to a second electrical resistance of the second
detecting element. A third change rate of a third signal is higher
than a fourth change rate of the third signal. The third signal
corresponds to a third electrical resistance of the third detecting
element. The third change rate is a change rate of the third signal
with respect to the change of the strain within the first range.
The fourth change rate is a change rate of the third signal with
respect to the change of the strain within the second range. A
change rate of a fourth signal with respect to the change of the
strain within the second range is higher than the fourth change
rate. The fourth signal corresponds to a fourth electrical
resistance of the fourth detecting element.
[0017] Various embodiments are described below with reference to
the accompanying drawings.
[0018] The drawings are schematic and conceptual; and the
relationships between the thickness and width of portions, the
proportions of sizes among portions, etc., are not necessarily the
same as the actual values. The dimensions and proportions may be
illustrated differently among drawings, even for identical
portions.
[0019] In the specification and drawings, components similar to
those described previously or illustrated in an antecedent drawing
are marked with like reference numerals, and a detailed description
is omitted as appropriate.
First Embodiment
[0020] FIG. 1A to FIG. 1D are schematic views illustrating a sensor
according to a first embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 1A is a perspective view. FIG. 1B is a perspective view
illustrating a portion of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1C and FIG. 1D are graphs
illustrating characteristics of the sensor.
[0022] As shown in FIG. 1A, the sensor 110 according to the
embodiment includes a film portion 60 and a detector 20. The
detector 20 is fixed to the film portion 60. The number of the
detectors 20 is one or more. In the example, the multiple detectors
20 are provided at a first surface 60f of the film portion 60.
[0023] A processor 70 is provided in the example. The processor 70
is electrically connected to at least one of the multiple detectors
20. For example, the detector 20 and the processor 70 are
electrically connected by a first conductive portion E1 and a
second conductive portion E2. The first conductive portion E1 and
the second conductive portion E2 are, for example, interconnects.
The first conductive portion E1 and the second conductive portion
E2 are, for example, electrodes. The first conductive portion E1
and the second conductive portion E2 are, for example, terminals.
The processor 70 includes, for example, a processing circuit.
[0024] The film portion 60 is deformable. The film portion 60
deforms when a force is applied to the film portion 60. Strain is
generated in the film portion 60. The strain of the film portion 60
is the detection object of the sensor 110.
[0025] FIG. 1B illustrates one of the multiple detectors 20. The
one of the multiple detectors 20 includes a first detecting element
51 and a second detecting element 52.
[0026] As shown in FIG. 1B, the first detecting element 51 includes
a first magnetic layer 11. In the example, the first detecting
element 51 further includes a first opposing magnetic layer 11o and
a first nonmagnetic layer 11n. The first nonmagnetic layer 11n is
provided between the first magnetic layer 11 and the first opposing
magnetic layer 11o.
[0027] The second detecting element 52 includes a second magnetic
layer 12. In the example, the second detecting element 52 further
includes a second opposing magnetic layer 12o and a second
nonmagnetic layer 12n. The second nonmagnetic layer 12n is provided
between the second magnetic layer 12 and the second opposing
magnetic layer 12o.
[0028] The electrical resistances of these detecting elements
change when strain is generated in the film portion 60. For
example, strain is generated in the magnetic layers included in the
detecting elements according to the strain of the film portion 60.
The orientations of the magnetizations of the magnetic layers
change when the strain is generated in the magnetic layers. For
example, the changes of the orientations of the magnetizations are
based on an inverse magnetostrictive effect (e.g., the Villari
effect). In the case where multiple magnetic layers are included in
a detecting element, the angle of the orientations of the
magnetizations of the multiple magnetic layers changes according to
the strain. The electrical resistance of the detecting element
changes based on the change of the angle of the orientations of the
magnetizations. For example, the change of the electrical
resistance is based on a magnetoresistance effect. The detecting
element may include, for example, a TMR element or a GMR
element.
[0029] For example, the orientation of a magnetization 11M of the
first magnetic layer 11 changes easily compared to the orientation
of a magnetization 11oM of the first opposing magnetic layer 110. A
magnetization 12M of the second magnetic layer 12 changes easily
compared to a magnetization 12oM of the second opposing magnetic
layer 12o. For example, the first magnetic layer 11 and the second
magnetic layer 12 may function as free magnetic layers. For
example, the first opposing magnetic layer 11o and the second
opposing magnetic layer 12o may function as reference layers.
[0030] In the example, the magnetization 11oM of the first opposing
magnetic layer 11o is aligned with the magnetization 12oM of the
second opposing magnetic layer 12o. For example, the angle between
the magnetization 12oM and the magnetization 11oM is greater than
-45 degrees but less than 45 degrees. Or, this angle is greater
than 135 degrees but less than 225 degrees. In the example, the
magnetization 11oM and the magnetization. 12oM are substantially
parallel to an X-axis direction.
[0031] In the embodiment, the direction from the film portion 60
toward the first magnetic layer 11 is called the "stacking
direction" for convenience. The stacking direction is taken as a
Z-axis direction. One direction perpendicular to the Z-axis
direction is taken as the X-axis direction. A direction
perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction is
taken as a Y-axis direction. For example, the stacking direction
crosses the first surface 60f of the film portion 60. In one
example, the stacking direction is perpendicular to the first
surface 60f.
[0032] In the embodiment, one of the first magnetic layer 11 or the
first opposing magnetic layer 11o is provided between the first
surface 60f and the other of the first magnetic layer 11 or the
first opposing magnetic layer 11o in the stacking direction (the
Z-axis direction). In the example, the first opposing magnetic
layer 11o is provided between the first magnetic layer 11 and the
first surface 60f.
[0033] In the embodiment, one of the second magnetic layer 12 or
the second opposing magnetic layer 12o is provided between the
first surface 60f and the other of the second magnetic layer 12 or
the second opposing magnetic layer 12o in the stacking direction.
In the example, the second opposing magnetic layer 12o is provided
between the second magnetic layer 12 and the first surface 60f.
[0034] An example of the characteristics of these detecting
elements will now be described.
[0035] FIG. 1C illustrates a characteristic of the first detecting
element 51. FIG. 1D illustrates a characteristic of the second
detecting element 52. In these figures, the horizontal axis
corresponds to the magnitude of a strain .epsilon. of the film
portion 60. The vertical axis of FIG. 1C corresponds to a first
electrical resistance R1 of the first detecting element 51. The
first electrical resistance R1 may be the first electrical
resistance R1, a voltage corresponding to the first electrical
resistance R1, or a current corresponding to the first electrical
resistance R1. The vertical axis of FIG. 1D corresponds to a second
electrical resistance R2 of the second detecting element 52. The
second electrical resistance R2 may be the second electrical
resistance R2, a voltage corresponding to the second electrical
resistance R2, or a current corresponding to the second electrical
resistance R2.
[0036] The characteristics are shown in FIG. 1C and FIG. 1D for
angles .theta. of the direction of the strain .epsilon. generated
in the film portion 60 of 0 degrees to 90 degrees. The angle
.theta. is the angle between the X-axis direction and the direction
of the strain .epsilon..
[0037] As shown in FIG. 1C, a first signal Sg1 (e.g., the first
electrical resistance R1) changes with high sensitivity when the
strain .epsilon. is small. The first signal Sg1 (e.g., the first
electrical resistance R1) is saturated and substantially does not
change when the strain .epsilon. is large.
[0038] As shown in FIG. 1D, a second signal Sg2 (e.g., the second
electrical resistance R2) changes when the strain .epsilon. is
small and large.
[0039] For example, as shown in these figures, the magnitude of the
strain .epsilon. of the film portion 60 includes a first range r1
and a second range r2. The second range r2 is larger than the first
range r1.
[0040] The change rate of the first signal Sg1 with respect to the
change of the magnitude of the strains within the first range r1
(referring to FIG. 1C) is taken as a first change rate CR1 of the
first signal Sg1. The change rate of the first signal Sg1 with
respect to the change of the magnitude of the strain .epsilon.
within the second range r2 (referring to FIG. 1C) is taken as a
second change rate CR2 of the first signal Sg1. The first change
rate CR1 is higher than the second change rate CR2. In the example,
the second change rate CR2 is substantially 0.
[0041] As shown in FIG. 1D, a change rate Ca2 of the second signal
Sg2 with respect to the change of the magnitude of the strain
.epsilon. within the second range r2 is higher than the second
change rate CR2 recited above (in the example, substantially 0). In
the example, the change rate Ca2 of the second signal Sg2 with
respect to the change of the strain .epsilon. within the first
range r1 is lower than the first change rate CR1 in the embodiment
(referring to FIG. 1C). For example, the change rate of the second
signal Sg2 (a change rate Ca1 and the change rate Ca2) is higher
than the second change rate CR2 and lower than the first change
rate CR1 of the first detecting element 51.
[0042] As shown in FIG. 1C, the first signal Sg1 saturates at a
small strain .epsilon.. The saturated value of the first signal Sg1
corresponds to the direction (the angle .theta.) of the strain
.epsilon.. Accordingly, the direction (the angle .theta.) of the
strain .epsilon. can be known from the saturated value of the first
signal Sg1.
[0043] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 1D, if the direction
(the angle .theta.) of the strain is known, the magnitude of the
strain .epsilon. can be known from the value of the second signal
Sg2.
[0044] In the embodiment, for example, the information relating to
the strain can be obtained from the first signal Sg1 and the second
signal Sg2. This strain is the detection object of the sensor 110
(e.g., a first strain).
[0045] For example, the processor 70 is configured to perform at
least the following first operation. In the first operation, the
processor 70 outputs a second value VA2 (referring to FIG. 1D). A
first value VA1 (referring to FIG. 1C) also may be output in the
first operation. The first value VA1 is based on the first signal
Sg1 (referring to FIG. 1C) when the first strain .epsilon.1 is
generated in the film portion 60. The second value VA2 is based on
the second signal Sg2 and the first value VA1 when the first strain
.epsilon.1 is generated in the film portion 60. For example, the
values recited above are output from an outputter OS1 of the
processor 70.
[0046] As shown in FIG. 1C and FIG. 1D, the first strain .epsilon.1
is within the second range r2. As shown in FIG. 1C, when the strain
.epsilon. is within the second range r2, the first signal Sg1 is
substantially independent of the magnitude of the strain .epsilon.,
and is dependent on the direction (the angle .theta.) of the strain
.epsilon.. Information relating to the direction (the angle
.theta.) of the first strain .epsilon.1 can be obtained from the
value of the first signal Sg1. The information corresponds to the
first value VA1. The first value VA1 corresponds to the direction
(the angle .theta.) of the first strain .epsilon.1, and is 60
degrees in the example of FIG. 1C.
[0047] As shown in FIG. 1D, the second value VA2 is obtained from
the value of the second signal Sg2 when the direction (the angle
.theta.) of the first strain .epsilon.1 is 60 degrees.
[0048] Thus, the first value VA1 includes the information relating
to the direction (the angle .theta.) of the first strain
.epsilon.1. The second value VA2 includes the information relating
to the magnitude of the first strain .epsilon.1.
[0049] For example, there is a first reference example in which
only the first detecting element 51 is used. In such a case, the
first signal substantially does not change with respect to the
magnitude of the strain .epsilon. in the second range r2.
Therefore, it is difficult to detect the magnitude of the strain
.epsilon. with high sensitivity in the first reference example.
[0050] On the other hand, there is a second reference example in
which only the second detecting element 52 is used. In such a case,
the second signal changes with respect to the magnitude of the
strain .epsilon. in the second range r2. However, as shown in FIG.
1D, the second signal Sg2 is dependent on the direction (the angle
.theta.) of the strain .epsilon. in addition to the magnitude of
the strain .epsilon.. Therefore, it is difficult to detect the
strain .epsilon. with high sensitivity in the second reference
example as well.
[0051] Conversely, in the embodiment, the direction (the angle
.theta.) and the magnitude of the first strain .epsilon.1 which is
the detection object can be detected by providing the two types of
detecting elements. According to the embodiment, a sensor that has
higher sensitivity can be provided.
[0052] In the example recited above, the angle .theta. is 0 degrees
to 90 degrees. The description recited above also is applicable in
the case where the angle .theta. is 90 degrees to 180 degrees, 180
degrees to 270 degrees, or 270 degrees to 360 degrees.
[0053] FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the
sensor according to the first embodiment.
[0054] As shown in FIG. 2, the first value VA1 that is based on the
first signal Sg1 is output (step S110). The first signal Sg1
corresponds to the first electrical resistance R1 when the first
strain .epsilon.1 is generated in the film portion 60. The second
value VA2 that is based on the first value VA1 and the second
signal Sg2 is output (step S120). For example, at least the first
operation including steps S110 and S120 recited above is performed.
For example, such an operation may be performed by the processor
70.
[0055] In the embodiment, the second change rate CR2 may be
substantially 0. For example, the first change rate CR1 may be 5
times the second change rate CR2 or more. For example, the first
change rate CR1 may be 10 times the second change rate CR2 or
more.
[0056] For example, the first electrical resistance R1 corresponds
to the electrical resistance between the first magnetic layer 11
and the first opposing magnetic layer 11o. For example, the second
electrical resistance R2 corresponds to the electrical resistance
between the second magnetic layer 12 and the second opposing
magnetic layer 12o.
Second Embodiment
[0057] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E are schematic views illustrating a sensor
according to a second embodiment.
[0058] FIG. 3A is a perspective view illustrating a portion of the
sensor. FIG. 3B to FIG. 3E are graphs illustrating characteristics
of the sensor.
[0059] As shown in FIG. 3A, the sensor 120 according to the
embodiment includes the film portion 60 and the detector 20. The
sensor 120 may further include the processor 70 (referring to FIG.
1A).
[0060] In the sensor 120 as well, the detector 20 is fixed to the
film portion 60. Multiple detectors 20 may be provided at the first
surface 60f of the film portion 60 (referring to FIG. 1A).
[0061] The detector 20 further includes a third detecting element
53 and a fourth detecting element 54 in addition to the first
detecting element 51 and the second detecting element 52. The
configurations of the first detecting element 51 and the second
detecting element 52 of the sensor 120 may be similar to the
configurations of the first detecting element 51 and the second
detecting element 52 of the sensor 110. Examples of the third
detecting element 53 and the fourth detecting element 54 will now
be described.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 3A, the third detecting element 53
includes, for example, a third magnetic layer 13, a third opposing
magnetic layer 13o, and a third nonmagnetic layer 13n provided
between the third magnetic layer 13 and the third opposing magnetic
layer 13o.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 3A, the fourth detecting element 54
includes, for example, a fourth magnetic layer 14, a fourth
opposing magnetic layer 14o, and a fourth nonmagnetic layer 14n
provided between the fourth magnetic layer 14 and the fourth
opposing magnetic layer 14o.
[0064] For example, one of the third magnetic layer 13 or the third
opposing magnetic layer 13o is provided between the first surface
60f and the other of the third magnetic layer 13 or the third
opposing magnetic layer 13o in the stacking direction (the Z-axis
direction). In the example, the third opposing magnetic layer 13o
is provided between the third magnetic layer 13 and the first
surface 60f.
[0065] For example, in one direction, one of the fourth magnetic
layer 14 or the fourth opposing magnetic layer 14o is provided
between the first surface 60f and the other of the fourth magnetic
layer 14 or the fourth opposing magnetic layer 14o. In the example,
the fourth opposing magnetic layer 14o is provided between the
fourth magnetic layer 14 and the first surface 60f.
[0066] In the embodiment, a magnetization 13oM of the third
opposing magnetic layer 13o is aligned with a magnetization 14oM of
the fourth opposing magnetic layer 14o. For example, the
magnetization 13oM may be substantially parallel to the
magnetization 14oM.
[0067] The magnetization 13oM of the third opposing magnetic layer
13o crosses the magnetization 11oM of the first opposing magnetic
layer 11o. For example, the magnetization 14oM of the fourth
opposing magnetic layer 14o crosses the magnetization 12oM of the
second opposing magnetic layer 12o.
[0068] FIG. 3B to FIG. 3E illustrate the characteristics of the
first to fourth detecting elements 51 to 54. In these figures, the
horizontal axis corresponds to the magnitude of the strain
.epsilon. of the film portion 60. In the sensor 120 as well, the
magnitude of the strain .epsilon. of the film portion 60 includes
the first range r1 and the second range r2. The second range r2 is
larger than the first range r1. In FIG. 3B to FIG. 3E, the vertical
axis corresponds to the first to fourth electrical resistances R1
to R4 corresponding respectively to the first to fourth detecting
elements 51 to 54. As shown in FIG. 3B and FIG. 3C, the
characteristics of the first electrical resistance R1 and the
second electrical resistance R2 of the sensor 120 are similar to
the characteristics of the first electrical resistance R1 and the
second electrical resistance R2 of the sensor 110.
[0069] A third change rate CR3 of a third signal Sg3 corresponding
to a third electrical resistance R3 of the third detecting element
53 (referring to FIG. 3D) is higher than a fourth change rate CR4
of the third signal Sg3 (referring to FIG. 3D). The third change
rate CR3 is the change rate of the third signal Sg3 with respect to
the change of the strain .epsilon. within the first range r1. The
fourth change rate CR4 is the change rate of the third signal Sg3
with respect to the change of the strain .epsilon. within the
second range r2.
[0070] A change rate Cb2 of a fourth signal Sg4 corresponding to
the fourth electrical resistance R4 of the fourth detecting element
54 with respect to the change of the strain .epsilon. within the
second range r2 (FIG. 3E) is higher than the fourth change rate CR4
recited above (referring to FIG. 3D).
[0071] The processor 70 may further perform at least the following
second operation. In the second operation, the processor 70 outputs
a fourth value VA4 (referring to FIG. 3E). In the second operation,
the processor 70 may further output a third value VA3 (referring to
FIG. 3D). The third value VA3 is based on the third signal Sg3 when
the first strain .epsilon.1 is generated in the film portion 60
(referring to FIG. 3D). The fourth value VA4 is based on the third
value VA3 recited above and the fourth signal Sg4 when the first
strain .epsilon.1 is generated in the film portion 60 (referring to
FIG. 3E).
[0072] As shown in FIG. 3B, the first signal Sg1 substantially does
not change when the direction (the angle .theta.) of the first
strain .epsilon.1 is aligned with the direction of the
magnetization of the magnetic layer of the first detecting element
51. At this time, as shown in FIG. 3D, the direction (the angle
.theta.) of the first strain .epsilon.1 crosses the direction of
the magnetization of the magnetic layer of the third detecting
element 53. Therefore, the third signal Sg3 changes according to
the first strain .epsilon.1. Accordingly, the first strain
.epsilon.1 can be detected by the third detecting element 53 even
when it is difficult for the first detecting element 51 to detect
the first strain .epsilon.1. Similarly, the second signal Sg2
substantially does not change when the direction (the angle
.theta.) of the first strain .epsilon.1 is aligned with the
direction of the magnetization of the magnetic layer of the second
detecting element 52. At this time, the first strain .epsilon.1 can
be detected by the fourth detecting element 54.
[0073] For example, the third value VA3 includes the information
relating to the direction (the angle .theta.) of the first strain
.epsilon.1. In the example shown in FIG. 3D, the third value VA3
corresponds to an angle .theta. of 0 degrees. The fourth value VA4
includes the information relating to the magnitude of the first
strain .epsilon.1.
[0074] In the sensor 120, the direction (the angle .theta.) and the
magnitude of the first strain .epsilon.1 can be detected for any
direction by the first to fourth detecting elements 51 to 54.
[0075] In one example according to the embodiment, a change rate
Cb1 of the fourth signal Sg4 corresponding to the fourth electrical
resistance R4 of the fourth detecting element 54 with respect to
the change of the strain .epsilon. in the first range r1 (referring
to FIG. 3E) is lower than the fourth change rate CR4 recited above
(referring to FIG. 3D).
[0076] As described above, the magnetization 13oM of the third
opposing magnetic layer 13o crosses the magnetization 11oM of the
first opposing magnetic layer 11o. For example, the angle between
the magnetization 13oM of the third opposing magnetic layer 13o and
the magnetization 11oM of the first opposing magnetic layer 11o is
not less than 45 degrees and not more than 135 degrees. This angle
may be, for example, not less than 60 degrees and not more than 120
degrees. The case where this angle is 90 degrees is illustrated in
FIG. 3B to FIG. 3E.
[0077] For example, the third electrical resistance R3 corresponds
to the electrical resistance between the third magnetic layer 13
and the third opposing magnetic layer 13o. For example, the fourth
electrical resistance R4 corresponds to the electrical resistance
between the fourth magnetic layer 14 and the fourth opposing
magnetic layer 14o.
[0078] FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view illustrating the sensor
according to the second embodiment.
[0079] FIG. 4 shows an example of the film portion 60 and the
detectors 20. As shown in FIG. 4, multiple detectors 20 may be
provided in the sensor 120. In the sensor 120, the positions of the
first to fourth detecting elements 51 to 54 are the same in each of
the multiple detectors 20.
[0080] FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view illustrating a sensor
according to the second embodiment.
[0081] FIG. 5 shows an example of the film portion 60 and the
detectors 20. As shown in FIG. 5, multiple detectors 20 are
provided in the sensor 121 according to the embodiment as well. In
the sensor 121, the first detecting element 51 that is included in
one of the multiple detectors 20 is provided between the third
detecting element 53 included in the one of the multiple detectors
20 recited above and the third detecting element 53 included in
another one of the multiple detectors 20. The first detecting
element 51 that is included in the other one of the multiple
detectors 20 recited above is provided between the first detecting
element 51 included in the one of the multiple detectors 20 recited
above and the third detecting element 53 included in the other one
of the multiple detectors 20 recited above.
[0082] In the sensor 121, the second detecting element 52 that is
included in one of the multiple detectors 20 is provided between
the fourth detecting element 54 included in the one of the multiple
detectors 20 recited above and the fourth detecting element 54
included in another one of the multiple detectors 20. The second
detecting element 52 that is included in the other one of the
multiple detectors 20 recited above is provided between the second
detecting element 52 included in the one of the multiple detectors
20 recited above and the fourth detecting element 54 included in
the other one of the multiple detectors 20 recited above.
[0083] Thus, various modifications are possible for the positions
of the first to fourth detecting elements 51 to 54 in each of the
multiple detectors 20.
[0084] The sensor 120 according to the second embodiment (referring
to FIG. 3A) may include the following configuration. The sensor 120
includes the film portion 60, and one or more detectors 20 fixed to
the film portion 60. The detector 20 includes the first to fourth
detecting elements 51 to 54. The first detecting element 51
includes the first magnetic layer 11, the first opposing magnetic
layer 110, and the first nonmagnetic layer 11n provided between the
first magnetic layer 11 and the first opposing magnetic layer 11o.
The second detecting element 52 includes the second magnetic layer
12, the second opposing magnetic layer 12o, and the second
nonmagnetic layer 12n provided between the second magnetic layer 12
and the second opposing magnetic layer 12o. The third detecting
element 53 includes the third magnetic layer 13, the third opposing
magnetic layer 13o, and the third nonmagnetic layer 13n provided
between the third magnetic layer 13 and the third opposing magnetic
layer 13o. The fourth detecting element 54 includes the fourth
magnetic layer 14, the fourth opposing magnetic layer 14o, and the
fourth nonmagnetic layer 14n provided between the fourth magnetic
layer 14 and the fourth opposing magnetic layer 14o.
[0085] For example, the magnetization 11oM of the first opposing
magnetic layer 11o is aligned with the magnetization 12oM of the
second opposing magnetic layer 12o. The magnetization 13oM of the
third opposing magnetic layer 13o is aligned with the magnetization
14oM of the fourth opposing magnetic layer 14o. The magnetization
13oM of the third opposing magnetic layer 13o crosses the
magnetization 11oM of the first opposing magnetic layer 11o.
[0086] As shown in FIG. 3B to FIG. 3E, the magnitude of the strain
.epsilon. of the film portion 60 includes the first range r1, and
the second range r2 that is larger than the first range r1. The
first change rate CR1 of the first signal Sg1 corresponding to the
first electrical resistance R1 of the first detecting element 51 is
higher than the second change rate CR2 of the first signal Sg1. The
first change rate CR1 is the change rate of the first signal Sg1
with respect to the change of the magnitude of the strain .epsilon.
within the first range r1. The second change rate CR2 is the change
rate of the first signal Sg1 with respect to the change of the
magnitude of the strain .epsilon. within the second range r2. The
change rate Ca2 of the second signal Sg2 corresponding to the
second electrical resistance R2 of the second detecting element 52
with respect to the change of the magnitude of the strains within
the second range r2 is higher than the second change rate CR2. The
third change rate CR3 of the third signal Sg3 corresponding to the
third electrical resistance R3 of the third detecting element 53 is
higher than the fourth change rate CR4 of the third signal Sg3. The
third change rate CR3 is the change rate of the third signal Sg3
with respect to the change of the strain .epsilon. within the first
range r1. The fourth change rate CR4 is the change rate of the
third signal Sg3 with respect to the change of the strain .epsilon.
within the second range r2. The change rate Cb1 of the fourth
signal Sg4 corresponding to the fourth electrical resistance R4 of
the fourth detecting element 54 with respect to the change of the
strain .epsilon. within the second range r2 is higher than the
fourth change rate CR4 recited above.
[0087] As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the sensors 120 and 121 may
include the film portion 60, multiple first detecting elements 51,
and the second detecting element 52. These detecting elements are
fixed to the film portion 60. The second detecting element 52 is
provided between the multiple first detecting elements 51. The
sensors 120 and 121 may include multiple third detecting elements
53 and the fourth detecting element 54. These detecting elements
are fixed to the film portion 60. The fourth detecting element 54
is provided between the multiple third detecting elements 53.
[0088] The film portion 60, the first detecting element 51, and
multiple second detecting elements 52 may be provided. These
detecting elements are fixed to the film portion 60. The first
detecting element 51 is provided between the multiple second
detecting elements 52. The third detecting element 53 and multiple
fourth detecting elements 54 may be included. These detecting
elements are fixed to the film portion 60. The third detecting
element 53 is provided between the multiple fourth detecting
elements 54.
[0089] In the sensors 110, 120, and 121 recited above, the detector
20 may include the multiple first to fourth detecting elements 51
to 54. Hereinbelow, at least a portion of these detecting elements
may be connected electrically in series.
[0090] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B are schematic perspective views
illustrating a portion of a sensor according to the embodiment.
[0091] Multiple stacked bodies are provided as shown in FIG. 6A. A
magnetic layer 10A, a magnetic layer 10B, and a nonmagnetic layer
10C are provided in each of the multiple stacked bodies. The
nonmagnetic layer 10C is provided between the magnetic layer 10A
and the magnetic layer 10B. The stacked body corresponds to one of
the first to fourth detecting elements 51 to 54. For example, the
magnetic layer 10A corresponds to one of the first to fourth
magnetic layers 11 to 14. For example, the magnetic layer 10B
corresponds to one of the first to fourth opposing magnetic layers
11o to 14o. For example, the nonmagnetic layer 10C corresponds to
one of the first to fourth nonmagnetic layers 11n to 14n.
[0092] One of these multiple stacked bodies is provided between the
first conductive portion E1 and the second conductive portion E2. A
connecting conductive portion E3 is provided in the example shown
in FIG. 6A. At least two of the multiple stacked bodies (at least
two of the first to fourth detecting elements 51 to 54) are
connected electrically in series via the first conductive portion
E1, the second conductive portion E2, and the connecting conductive
portion E3.
[0093] In the example shown in FIG. 6B, at least two of the
multiple stacked bodies (at least two of the first to fourth
detecting elements 51 to 54) are connected electrically in series
via the first conductive portion E1 and the second conductive
portion E2.
[0094] The noise can be suppressed by connecting the multiple
stacked bodies (any of the first to fourth stacked bodies)
electrically in series.
[0095] In such a case, the first electrical resistance R1 includes
the electrical resistances of the multiple first detecting elements
51. The second electrical resistance R2 includes the electrical
resistances of the multiple second detecting elements 52. The third
electrical resistance R3 includes the electrical resistances of the
multiple third detecting elements 53. The fourth electrical
resistance R4 includes the electrical resistances of the multiple
fourth detecting elements 54.
[0096] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7D are schematic plan views illustrating
portions of the sensor according to the embodiment.
[0097] These drawings show an example of the configurations of the
first to fourth detecting elements 51 to 54. In these drawings, the
positions of the magnetic layers and the positions of the opposing
magnetic layers are illustrated as being shifted for easier
viewing.
[0098] As shown in FIG. 7A, a first length 11La of the first
magnetic layer 11 along a first direction D1 is longer than a first
cross-direction length 11Lb of the first magnetic layer 11 along a
second direction D2 crossing the first direction D1. The first
direction D1 and the second direction D2 are along the first
surface 60f (referring to FIG. 3A).
[0099] As shown in FIG. 7C, a second length 12La of the second
magnetic layer 12 along the first direction D1 is longer than a
second cross-direction length 12Lb of the second magnetic layer 12
along the second direction D2.
[0100] A length 12Loa of the second opposing magnetic layer 12o
along the first direction D1 is longer than a length 12oLb of the
second opposing magnetic layer 12o along the second direction
D2.
[0101] As shown in FIG. 7B, a third length 13La of the third
magnetic layer 13 along a third direction D3 along the first
surface 60f (referring to FIG. 3A) is longer than a third
cross-direction length 13Lb of the third magnetic layer 13 along a
fourth direction D4 crossing the third direction D3 along the first
surface 60f.
[0102] As shown in FIG. 7D, a fourth length 14La of the fourth
magnetic layer 14 along the third direction D3 is longer than a
fourth cross-direction length 14Lb of the fourth magnetic layer 14
along the fourth direction D4.
[0103] For such a first magnetic layer 11, the magnetization 11M of
the first magnetic layer 11 is aligned easily with the first
direction D1. For such a second magnetic layer 12, the
magnetization 12M of the second magnetic layer 12 is aligned easily
with the first direction D1. For such a third magnetic layer 13, a
magnetization 13M of the third magnetic layer 13 is aligned easily
with the third direction D3. For such a fourth magnetic layer 14, a
magnetization 14M of the fourth magnetic layer 14 is aligned easily
with the third direction D3.
[0104] The characteristics illustrated in FIG. 3B to FIG. 3E are
easier to obtain using such a configuration.
[0105] The third direction D3 crosses the first direction D1. The
fourth direction D4 crosses the second direction D2.
[0106] For example, the first direction D1 is aligned with the
X-axis direction. For example, the second direction D2 is aligned
with the Y-axis direction. For example, the third direction D3 is
aligned with the Y-axis direction. For example, the fourth
direction D4 is aligned with the X-axis direction. For example, the
first direction D1 is orthogonal to the second direction D2. For
example, the third direction D3 is orthogonal to the fourth
direction D4.
[0107] The aspect ratios of the first magnetic layer 11 and the
second magnetic layer 12 may be different from each other. For
example, the ratio of the first length 11La to the first
cross-direction length 11Lb is lower than the ratio of the second
length 12La to the second cross-direction length 12Lb. Thereby, for
example, the magnetization 11M of the first magnetic layer 11
changes more easily than the magnetization 12M of the second
magnetic layer 12.
[0108] The aspect ratios of the third magnetic layer 13 and the
fourth magnetic layer 14 may be different from each other. For
example, the ratio of the third length 13La to the third
cross-direction length 13Lb is lower than the ratio of the fourth
length 14La to the fourth cross-direction length 14Lb. Thereby, for
example, the magnetization 13M of the third magnetic layer 13
changes more easily than the magnetization 14M of the fourth
magnetic layer 14.
[0109] As shown in FIG. 7A, a length 11oLa of the first opposing
magnetic layer 11o along the first direction D1 is longer than a
length 11oLb of the first opposing magnetic layer 11o along the
second direction D2. As shown in FIG. 7C, a length 12oLa of the
second opposing magnetic layer 12o along the first direction D1 is
longer than the length 12oLb of the second opposing magnetic layer
12o along the second direction D2. As shown in FIG. 7B, a length
13oLa of the third opposing magnetic layer 13o along the third
direction D3 is longer than a length 13oLb of the third opposing
magnetic layer 13o along the fourth direction D4. As shown in FIG.
7D, a length 14oLa of the fourth opposing magnetic layer 14o along
the third direction D3 is longer than a length 14oLb of the fourth
opposing magnetic layer 14o along the fourth direction D4.
[0110] Configurations such as those shown in FIG. 7A to FIG. 7D
provide the magnetic layers with shape anisotropy. For example, the
characteristics illustrated in FIG. 3B to FIG. 3E respectively of
the first to fourth detecting elements 51 to 54 are easier to
obtain by providing the shape anisotropy.
[0111] In the embodiment, the first magnetic layer 11 includes, for
example, a ferromagnet material. The first magnetic layer 11
includes, for example, a ferromagnet material including Fe, Co, and
Ni. The first magnetic layer 11 includes, for example, an FeCo
alloy, etc. The first magnetic layer 11 includes, for example, at
least one selected from the group consisting of a Co--Fe--B alloy,
an Fe--Co--Si--B alloy, an Fe--Ga alloy having a large .lamda.s
(magnetostriction constant), an Fe--Co--Ga alloy, a Tb--M--Fe
alloy, a Tb--M1--Fe--M2 alloy, an Fe--M3--M4--B alloy, Ni, Fe--Al,
and ferrite. For example, the .lamda.s (the magnetostriction
constant) is large for these materials. In the Tb--M--Fe alloy
recited above, M is at least one selected from the group consisting
of Sm, Eu, Gd, Dy, Ho, and Er. In the Tb--M1--Fe--M2 alloy recited
above, M1 is at least one selected from the group consisting of Sm,
Eu, Gd, Dy, Ho, and Er. M2 is at least one selected from the group
consisting of Ti, Cr, Mn, Co, Cu, Nb, Mo, W, and Ta. In the
Fe--M3--M4--B alloy recited above, M3 is at least one selected from
the group consisting of Ti, Cr, Mn, Co, Cu, Nb, Mo, W, and Ta. M4
is at least one selected from the group consisting of Ce, Pr, Nd,
Sm, Tb, Dy, and Er. The ferrite recited above includes at least one
selected from the group consisting of Fe.sub.3O.sub.4 and
(FeCo).sub.3O.sub.4. The thickness of the first magnetic layer 11
is, for example, 2 nm or more.
[0112] The first magnetic layer 11 may include a magnetic material
including boron. The first magnetic layer 11 may include, for
example, an alloy including boron (B) and at least one element
selected from the group consisting of Fe, Co, and Ni. The first
magnetic layer 11 may include, for example, a Co--Fe--B alloy or an
Fe--B alloy. For example, the first magnetic layer 11 includes a
Co.sub.40Fe.sub.40B.sub.20 alloy. In the case where the first
magnetic layer 11 includes an alloy including boron (B) and at
least one element selected from the group consisting of Fe, Co, and
Ni, the first magnetic layer 11 may further include at least one
selected from the group consisting of Ga, Al, Si, and W. By
including these elements, for example, a high magnetostriction
constant is obtained easily. The first magnetic layer 11 may
include, for example, an Fe--Ga--B alloy, an Fe--Co--Ga--B alloy,
or an Fe--Co--Si--B alloy. By the first magnetic layer 11 including
such a magnetic material including boron, for example, the
coercivity (Hc) of the first magnetic layer 11 is low. For example,
the change of the magnetization direction with respect to the
strain is easy. High sensitivity is obtained thereby.
[0113] It is favorable for the boron concentration (e.g., the
composition ratio of boron) of the first magnetic layer 11 to be 5
at. % (atomic percent) or more. Thereby, an amorphous structure is
easier to obtain. It is favorable for the boron concentration of
the first magnetic layer 11 (e.g., the free magnetic layer) to be
35 at. % or less. For example, the magnetostriction constant
decreases when the boron concentration is too high. It is favorable
for the boron concentration of the first magnetic layer 11 to be,
for example, not less than 5 at. % and not more than 35 at. %; and
it is more favorable to be not less than 10 at. % and not more than
30 at. %.
[0114] For example, a large magnetostriction constant A and a low
coercivity are obtained easily when a portion of the magnetic film
included in the first magnetic layer 11 includes Fe.sub.1-yB.sub.y
(0<y.ltoreq.0.3) or (Fe.sub.zX.sub.1-z).sub.1-yB.sub.y (X being
Co or Ni, 0.8.ltoreq.z<1, and 0<y.ltoreq.0.3). Therefore,
this is particularly favorable from the perspective of obtaining a
high strain sensitivity. For example, the first magnetic layer 11
includes Fe.sub.80B.sub.20 (having a thickness of 4 nm). For
example, the first magnetic layer 11 includes
Co.sub.40Fe.sub.40B.sub.20 (having a thickness of 0.5
nm)/Fe.sub.80B.sub.20 (having a thickness of 4 nm).
[0115] The second magnetic layer 12 may include, for example, the
same material as the first magnetic layer 11. The third magnetic
layer 13 may include the same material as the first magnetic layer
11. The fourth magnetic layer 14 may include the same material as
the first magnetic layer 11.
[0116] In the embodiment, the second magnetic layer 12 may include
a material different from the first magnetic layer 11. The fourth
magnetic layer 14 may include a material different from the first
magnetic layer 11.
[0117] For example, the compositions of the second magnetic layer
12 (and the fourth magnetic layer 14) are different from the
compositions of the first magnetic layer 11 (and the third magnetic
layer 13). For example, the first magnetic layer 11 (and the third
magnetic layer 13) include at least one of Fe, Co, or Ni having a
first concentration. The second magnetic layer 12 (and the fourth
magnetic layer 14) include the at least one of Fe, Co, or Ni
recited above having a second concentration. The second
concentration is different from the first concentration.
[0118] For example, the concentration (the composition ratio) of Fe
in the second magnetic layer 12 (and the fourth magnetic layer 14)
is different from the concentration (the composition ratio) of Fe
in the first magnetic layer 11 (and the third magnetic layer 13).
For example, the concentration (the composition ratio) of Co in the
second magnetic layer 12 (and the fourth magnetic layer 14) is
different from the concentration (the composition ratio) of Co in
the first magnetic layer 11 (and the third magnetic layer 13). For
example, the concentration (the composition ratio) of Ni in the
second magnetic layer 12 (and the fourth magnetic layer 14) is
different from the concentration (the composition ratio) of Ni in
the first magnetic layer 11 (and the third magnetic layer 13).
[0119] For example, the concentration of B (boron) may be different
between the first magnetic layer 11 (and the third magnetic layer
13) and the second magnetic layer 12 (and the fourth magnetic layer
14). For example, the composition ratio of B in the first magnetic
layer 11 (and the third magnetic layer 13) is not less than 10 at.
% and not more than 30 at. %. For example, the composition ratio of
B in the second magnetic layer 12 (and the fourth magnetic layer
14) is not less than 0 at. % but less than 10 at. %. For example,
the first magnetic layer 11 (and the third magnetic layer 13)
include B and at least one of Fe, Co, or Ni. The second magnetic
layer 12 (and the fourth magnetic layer 14) may include at least
one of Fe, Co, or Ni but not include B.
[0120] For example, the first magnetic layer 11 (and the third
magnetic layer 13) include B and at least one of Fe, Co, or Ni. The
second magnetic layer 12 (and the fourth magnetic layer 14) include
B and at least one of Fe, Co, or Ni. The concentration (the
composition ratio) of B included in the second magnetic layer 12
(and the fourth magnetic layer 14) is lower than the concentration
(the composition ratio) of B included in the first magnetic layer
11 (and the third magnetic layer 13). For example, the composition
ratio of Fe in the first magnetic layer 11 (and the third magnetic
layer 13) is not less than 60 at. % (atomic percent) and not more
than 100 at. %. For example, the composition ratio of Fe in the
second magnetic layer 12 (and the fourth magnetic layer 14) is not
less than 0 at. % but less than 60 at. %. For example, the
composition ratio of B in the first magnetic layer 11 (and the
third magnetic layer 13) is not less than 10 at. % and not more
than 30 at. %. For example, the composition ratio of B in the
second magnetic layer 12 (and the fourth magnetic layer 14) is not
less than 0 at. % but less than 10 at. %.
[0121] For example, the first magnetic layer 11 (and the third
magnetic layer 13) include Co.sub.40Fe.sub.40B.sub.20. For example,
the second magnetic layer 12 (and the fourth magnetic layer 14)
include Co.sub.50Fe.sub.60.
[0122] For example, the first magnetic layer 11 (and the third
magnetic layer 13) include Fe.sub.80B.sub.20. For example, the
second magnetic layer 12 (and the fourth magnetic layer 14) include
Co.sub.40Fe.sub.40B.sub.20.
[0123] For example, the compositions of these magnetic layers are
determined using an analysis method combining a cross-section TEM
(Transmission Electron Microscope) and EDX (Energy Dispersive X-ray
Spectroscopy). For example, the compositions of these magnetic
layers are determined using an analysis method combining
cross-section TEM and EELS (Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy). For
example, the compositions of these magnetic layers are determined
using an analysis method such as SIMS (Secondary Ion Mass
Spectrometry), etc.
[0124] For example, the crystallinity may be different between the
first magnetic layer 11 (and the third magnetic layer 13) and the
second magnetic layer 12 (and the fourth magnetic layer 14). For
example, the first magnetic layer 11 (and the third magnetic layer
13) includes amorphous regions. The second magnetic layer 12 (and
the fourth magnetic layer 14) include crystal regions. For example,
the second magnetic layer 12 (and the fourth magnetic layer 14) do
not include amorphous regions. For example, the amount of the
amorphous region (e.g., the area of the amorphous region per unit
cross-sectional area) in the second magnetic layer 12 (and the
fourth magnetic layer 14) is less than the amount of the amorphous
region (e.g., the area of the amorphous region per unit
cross-sectional area) in the first magnetic layer 11' (and the
third magnetic layer 13). For example, the first magnetic layer 11
(and the third magnetic layer 13) substantially may not include
crystal regions.
[0125] For example, the crystallinity of these magnetic layers is
determined using an analysis method such as cross-section TEM
(Transmission Electron Microscope), etc.
[0126] For example, the characteristics illustrated in FIG. 3B to
FIG. 3E respectively of the first to fourth detecting elements 51
to 54 are easier to obtain due to such material differences.
[0127] In the embodiment, the first opposing magnetic layer 11o
includes, for example, a ferromagnet material. The first opposing
magnetic layer 11o includes, for example, a ferromagnet material
including Fe, Co, and Ni. The first opposing magnetic layer 11o
includes, for example, NiFe, etc. The first opposing magnetic layer
11o includes, for example, NiFeCo, etc. The first opposing magnetic
layer 11o may include a material having a low Xs (magnetostriction
constant), or in which the Xs (the magnetostriction constant) is
substantially zero. Thereby, for example, compared to the first
magnetic layer 11, the magnetization rotation due to the strain
does not occur easily. Or, the magnetization rotation due to the
strain substantially does not occur. For example, the first
opposing magnetic layer 11o includes a magnetic layer including
Ni.sub.1-yFe.sub.y (0.15.ltoreq.y.ltoreq.0.25).
[0128] In the embodiment, the first nonmagnetic layer 11n includes,
for example, a metal, an insulator, or a semiconductor. The metal
includes, for example, at least one selected from the group
consisting of Cu, Au, and Ag. In the case where the first
nonmagnetic layer 11n includes a metal, the thickness of the first
nonmagnetic layer 11n is, for example, not less than about 1 nm and
not more than about 7 nm. The insulator recited above or the
semiconductor recited above includes, for example, at least one
selected from the group consisting of magnesium oxide (MgO, etc.),
aluminum oxide (Al.sub.2O.sub.3, etc.), titanium oxide (TiO, etc.),
zinc oxide (ZnO, etc.), and gallium oxide (Ga--O). In the case
where the first nonmagnetic layer 11n includes an insulator or a
semiconductor, the thickness of the first nonmagnetic layer 11n is,
for example, not less than about 0.6 nm and not more than about 3
nm. For example, the first nonmagnetic layer 11n includes a MgO
layer having a thickness of 2 nm.
[0129] FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view illustrating a portion of a
sensor according to the embodiment.
[0130] For easier viewing of FIG. 8, the nonmagnetic layers are not
illustrated. Also, the positions of the magnetic layers and the
positions of the opposing magnetic layers are illustrated as being
shifted.
[0131] In the sensor 140 according to the embodiment as shown in
FIG. 8, the first to fourth detecting elements 51 to 54 are
provided in the detector 20. The first detecting element 51
includes multiple stacked bodies. One of the multiple stacked
bodies includes the first magnetic layer 11 and the first opposing
magnetic layer 11o. The second detecting element 52 includes
multiple stacked bodies. One of the multiple stacked bodies
includes the second magnetic layer 12 and the second opposing
magnetic layer 12o. The third detecting element 53 includes
multiple stacked bodies. One of the multiple stacked bodies
includes the third magnetic layer 13 and the third opposing
magnetic layer 13o. The fourth detecting element 54 includes
multiple stacked bodies. One of the multiple stacked bodies
includes the fourth magnetic layer 14 and the fourth opposing
magnetic layer 14o.
[0132] As described in reference to FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B, at least
two of the multiple first detecting elements 51 are connected
electrically in series.
[0133] FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a sensor
according to the embodiment.
[0134] In the sensor 150 according to the embodiment as shown in
FIG. 9, the first to fourth detecting elements 51 to 54 are
provided in the detector 20.
[0135] The first detecting element 51 includes a first lower
electrode 11a, a first foundation layer 11u, a first pinning layer
11v, a first pinned magnetic layer 11p, a first magnetic coupling
layer 11e, the first opposing magnetic layer 11o, the first
nonmagnetic layer 11n, the first magnetic layer 11, a first capping
layer 11c, and a first upper electrode 11b.
[0136] The second detecting element 52 includes a second lower
electrode 12a, a second foundation layer 12u, a second pinning
layer 12v, a second pinned magnetic layer 12p, a second magnetic
coupling layer 12e, the second opposing magnetic layer 12o, the
second nonmagnetic layer 12n, the second magnetic layer 12, a
second capping layer 12c, and a second upper electrode 12b.
[0137] The third detecting element 53 includes a third lower
electrode 13a, a third foundation layer 13u, a third pinning layer
13v, a third pinned magnetic layer 13p, a third magnetic coupling
layer 13e, the third opposing magnetic layer 13o, the third
nonmagnetic layer 13n, the third magnetic layer 13, a third capping
layer 13c, and a third upper electrode 13b.
[0138] The fourth detecting element 54 includes a fourth lower
electrode 14a, a fourth foundation layer 14u, a fourth pinning
layer 14v, a fourth pinned magnetic layer 14p, a fourth magnetic
coupling layer 14e, the fourth opposing magnetic layer 14o, the
fourth nonmagnetic layer 14n, the fourth magnetic layer 14, a
fourth capping layer 14c, and a fourth upper electrode 14b.
[0139] In the example of the first to fourth detecting elements 51
to 54 shown in FIG. 9, the first magnetic layer 11, the second
magnetic layer 12, the third magnetic layer 13, and the fourth
magnetic layer 14 are free magnetic layers. The first opposing
magnetic layer 11o, the second opposing magnetic layer 12o, the
third opposing magnetic layer 13o, and the fourth opposing magnetic
layer 14o are fixed magnetic layers. The magnetization is fixed for
the fixed magnetic layers.
[0140] The first lower electrode 11a and the first upper electrode
11b include, for example, at least one of aluminum (Al), aluminum
copper alloy (Al--Cu), copper (Cu), silver (Ag), or gold (Au). The
electrical resistance is relatively low for these materials; for
example, the current can be caused to flow efficiently in the first
detecting element 51 by the first lower electrode 11a and the first
upper electrode 11b including these materials. The first lower
electrode 11a and the first upper electrode 11b include nonmagnetic
materials.
[0141] The first lower electrode 11a and the first upper electrode
11b may include, for example, a first lower electrode film (not
illustrated), a first upper electrode film (not illustrated),
capping layers (not illustrated) for the first lower electrode 11a
and the first upper electrode 11b, and layers including at least
one selected from the group consisting of Al, Al--Cu, Cu, Ag, and
Au provided between such layers. For example, the first lower
electrode 11a and the first upper electrode 11b may include
tantalum (Ta)/copper (Cu)/tantalum (Ta), etc. For example, the
adhesion between the substrate (e.g., the film portion 60) and the
first lower electrode 11a is improved by including Ta in the
foundation layers of the first lower electrode 11a and the first
upper electrode 11b. The foundation layers for the first lower
electrode 11a and the first upper electrode 11b may include
titanium (Ti), titanium nitride (TiN), etc.
[0142] By including Ta in the capping layers of the first lower
electrode 11a and the first upper electrode 11b, oxidization of the
copper (Cu), etc., under the capping layers is suppressed. The
capping layers for the first lower electrode 11a and the first
upper electrode 11b may include titanium (Ti), titanium nitride
(TIN), etc.
[0143] The second lower electrode 12a, the third lower electrode
13a, and the fourth lower electrode 14a include, for example, the
materials described in reference to the first lower electrode 11a.
The second lower electrode 12a, the third lower electrode 13a, and
the fourth lower electrode 14a may include, for example, the same
material as the first lower electrode 11a.
[0144] The second upper electrode 12b, the third upper electrode
13b, and the fourth upper electrode 14b include, for example, the
materials described in reference to the first upper electrode 11b.
The second upper electrode 12b, the third upper electrode 13b, and
the fourth upper electrode 14b may include, for example, the same
material as the first upper electrode 11b.
[0145] For example, the first foundation layer 11u may have a
stacked structure including a buffer layer (not illustrated) and a
seed layer (not illustrated). For example, the buffer layer relaxes
the roughness of the surfaces of the first lower electrode 11a, the
film portion 60, etc. For example, the buffer layer improves the
crystallinity of the layers stacked on the buffer layer. The buffer
layer includes, for example, at least one selected from the group
consisting of tantalum (Ta), titanium (Ti), vanadium (V), tungsten
(W), zirconium (Zr), hafnium (Hf), and chrome (Cr). An alloy
including at least one selected from the group recited above may be
included as the buffer layer.
[0146] It is favorable for the thickness of the buffer layer
included in the first foundation layer 11u to be, for example, not
less than 1 nm and not more than 10 nm. It is more favorable for
the thickness of the buffer layer to be not less than 1 nm and not
more than 5 nm. In the case where the buffer layer is too thin, the
buffering effect may be insufficient. In the case where the buffer
layer is too thick, the thickness of the first detecting element 51
becomes excessively thick. For example, a buffering effect may be
provided by forming a seed layer on the buffer layer. In such a
case, the buffer layer may be omitted. The buffer layer includes,
for example, a Ta layer having a thickness of 3 nm.
[0147] The seed layer that is included in the first foundation
layer 11u controls the crystal orientation of the layers stacked on
the seed layer. The seed layer controls the crystal grain size of
the layers stacked on the seed layer. The seed layer includes a
metal having a fcc structure (face-centered cubic structure), a hcp
structure (hexagonal close-packed structure), a bcc structure
(body-centered cubic structure), etc.
[0148] The seed layer that is included in the first foundation
layer 11u includes ruthenium (Ru) having a hcp structure, NiFe
having a fcc structure, or Cu having a fcc structure. Thereby, for
example, the crystal orientation of the magnetic layer on the seed
layer can be the fcc (111) orientation. The seed layer may include,
for example, a Cu layer having a thickness of 2 nm or a Ru layer
having a thickness of 2 nm. It is favorable for the thickness of
the seed layer to be not less than 1 nm and not more than 5 nm. In
such a case, for example, the crystal orientation of the layers
formed on the seed layer can be increased. It is more favorable for
the thickness of the seed layer to be not less than 1 nm and not
more than 3 nm. Thereby, the function of the seed layer improving
the crystal orientation is realized sufficiently.
[0149] The second foundation layer 12u, the third foundation layer
13u, and the fourth foundation layer 14u include the materials
described in reference to the first foundation layer 11u. The
second foundation layer 12u, the third foundation layer 13u, and
the fourth foundation layer 14u may include the same material as
the first foundation layer 11u.
[0150] For example, the first pinning layer 11v provides
unidirectional anisotropy to the first pinned magnetic layer 11p
(the ferromagnetic layer) formed on the first pinning layer 11v and
fixes the magnetization of the first pinned magnetic layer 11p. The
first pinning layer 11v includes, for example, an antiferromagnetic
layer. The first pinning layer 11v includes, for example, at least
one selected from the group consisting of Ir--Mn, Pt--Mn,
Pd--Pt--Mn, Ru--Mn, Rh--Mn, Ru--Rh--Mn, Fe--Mn, Ni--Mn, Cr--Mn--Pt,
and Ni--O. The first pinning layer 11v may include an alloy
including another element and at least one selected from the group
consisting of Ir--Mn, Pt--Mn, Pd--Pt--Mn, Ru--Mn, Rh--Mn,
Ru--Rh--Mn, Fe--Mn, Ni--Mn, Cr--Mn--Pt, and Ni--O. The thickness of
the first pinning layer 11v is set appropriately. For example, the
first pinned magnetic layer 11p is provided with unidirectional
anisotropy of sufficient strength.
[0151] For example, heat treatment is performed while applying a
magnetic field. Thereby, for example, the magnetization of the
ferromagnetic layer contacting the first pinning layer 11v is
fixed. The magnetization of the ferromagnetic layer contacting the
first pinning layer 11v is fixed in the direction of the magnetic
field applied in the heat treatment. For example, the heat
treatment temperature (the annealing temperature) is not less than
the magnetization pinning temperature of the antiferromagnetic
material included in the first pinning layer 11v. For example, in
the case where the first pinning layer 11v includes an
antiferromagnetic layer including Mn, the MR ratio may decrease due
to the Mn diffusing into layers other than the first pinning layer
11v. It is desirable to set the heat treatment temperature to be
not more than the temperature at which the diffusion of Mn occurs.
The heat treatment temperature is, for example, not less than
200.degree. C. and not more than 500.degree. C. It is favorable for
the heat treatment temperature to be, for example, not less than
250.degree. C. and not more than 400 .degree. C.
[0152] In the case where the first pinning layer 11v includes PtMn
or PdPtMn, it is favorable for the thickness of the first pinning
layer 11v to be not less than 8 nm and not more than 20 nm. It is
more favorable for the thickness of the first pinning layer 11v to
be not less than 10 nm and not more than 15 nm. Unidirectional
anisotropy can be provided to the other layers by a thinner
thickness when the first pinning layer 11v includes IrMn than when
the first pinning layer 11v includes PtMn. In the case where the
first pinning layer 11v includes IrMn, it is favorable for the
thickness of the first pinning layer 11v to be not less than 4 nm
and not more than 18 nm. It is more favorable for the thickness of
the first pinning layer 11v to be not less than 5 nm and not more
than 15 nm. The first pinning layer 11v includes, for example, an
Ir.sub.22Mn.sub.78 layer having a thickness of 7 nm.
[0153] The first pinning layer 11v may include a hard magnetic
layer. The hard magnetic layer includes, for example, at least one
selected from the group consisting of Co--Pt, Fe--Pt, Co--Pd, and
Fe--Pd. For example, the magnetic anisotropy and the coercivity are
relatively high for these materials. These materials are hard
magnetic materials. The first pinning layer 11v may include an
alloy including another element and at least one selected from the
group consisting of Co--Pt, Fe--Pt, Co--Pd, and Fe--Pd. For
example, the first pinning layer 11v may include CoPt (the ratio of
Co being not less than 50 at. % and not more than 85 at. %),
(Co.sub.xPt.sub.100-x).sub.100-yCr.sub.y (x being not less than 50
at. % and not more than 85 at. %, and y being not less than 0 at. %
and not more than 40 at. %), or FePt (the ratio of Pt being not
less than 40 at. % and not more than 60 at. %).
[0154] The second pinning layer 12v, the third pinning layer 13v,
and the fourth pinning layer 14v include, for example, the
materials described in reference to the first pinning layer 11v.
The second pinning layer 12v, the third pinning layer 13v, and the
fourth pinning layer 14v may include, for example, the same
material as the first pinning layer 11v.
[0155] The third pinning layer 13v (and the fourth pinning layer
14v) may include a material different from the first pinning layer
11v and the second pinning layer 12v. For example, the third
pinning layer 13v (and the fourth pinning layer 14v) may include a
Pt--Mn alloy; and the first pinning layer 11v (and the second
pinning layer 12v) may include an Ir--Mn alloy. Thus, by using
different materials, the magnetization 13oM of the third opposing
magnetic layer (and the magnetization 14oM of the fourth opposing
magnetic layer) can easily cross the magnetization 11oM of the
first opposing magnetic layer (and the magnetization 12oM of the
second opposing magnetic layer) (referring to FIG. 9).
[0156] The first pinned magnetic layer 11p includes, for example,
at least one selected from the group consisting of a
Co.sub.xFe.sub.100-x alloy (x being not less than 0 at. % and not
more than 100 at. %) and a Ni.sub.xFe.sub.100-x alloy (x being not
less than 0 at. % and not more than 100 at. %). The first pinned
magnetic layer 11p may include a material including these materials
and a nonmagnetic element. The first pinned magnetic layer 11p
includes, for example, at least one selected from the group
consisting of Co, Fe, and Ni. The first pinned magnetic layer 11p
may include an alloy including at least one selected from the group
consisting of Co, Fe, and Ni.
[0157] It is favorable for the thickness of the first pinned
magnetic layer 11p to be, for example, not less than 1.5 nm and not
more than 5 nm. Thereby, for example, the strength of the
unidirectional anisotropic magnetic field due to the first pinned
magnetic layer 11p can be stronger. For example, the strength of
the antiferromagnetic coupling magnetic field between the first
pinned magnetic layer 11p and the first opposing magnetic layer no
via the magnetic coupling layer formed on the first pinned magnetic
layer 11p can be stronger. For example, it is favorable for the
magnetic thickness (the product of the saturation magnetization and
the thickness) of the first pinned magnetic layer lip to be
substantially equal to the magnetic thickness of the first opposing
magnetic layer 11o.
[0158] In the sensor 150 illustrated in FIG. 9, a synthetic pinned
structure that is made of the first pinned magnetic layer 11p, the
first magnetic coupling layer 11e, and the first opposing magnetic
layer 110 is provided in the first detecting element 51. A single
pinned structure having one fixed magnetic layer may be provided in
the first detecting element 51. In such a case, the first pinned
magnetic layer 11p and the first magnetic coupling layer 11e are
omitted.
[0159] The second pinned magnetic layer 12p, the third pinned
magnetic layer 13p, and the fourth pinned magnetic layer 14p
include, for example, the materials described in reference to the
first pinned magnetic layer 11p. The second pinned magnetic layer
12p, the third pinned magnetic layer 13p, and the fourth pinned
magnetic layer 14p may include, for example, the same material as
the first pinned magnetic layer 11p.
[0160] The first magnetic coupling layer 11e causes
antiferromagnetic coupling between the first pinned magnetic layer
11p and the first opposing magnetic layer 11o. The first magnetic
coupling layer 11e forms a synthetic pinned structure. The first
magnetic coupling layer 11e includes, for example, Ru. It is
favorable for the thickness of the first magnetic coupling layer
11e to be, for example, not less than 0.8 nm and not more than 1
nm. The first magnetic coupling layer 11e includes a material
causing a sufficient antiferromagnetic coupling between the first
pinned magnetic layer 11p and the first opposing magnetic layer
11o. For example, the first magnetic coupling layer 11e includes
Ir. For example, the thickness of the first magnetic coupling layer
11e is set to a thickness not less than 0.8 nm and not more than 1
nm which corresponds to the second peak (2nd peak) of RKKY
(Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida) coupling. The thickness of the
first magnetic coupling layer 11e may be set to a thickness not
less than 0.3 nm and not more than 0.6 nm which corresponds to the
first peak (1st peak) of RKKY coupling. The material of the first
magnetic coupling layer 11e includes, for example, a Ru layer
having a thickness of 0.9 nm. Thereby, highly-reliability coupling
is obtained more stably.
[0161] The second magnetic coupling layer 12e, the third magnetic
coupling layer 13e, and the fourth magnetic coupling layer 14e
include, for example, the materials described in reference to the
first magnetic coupling layer 11e. The second magnetic coupling
layer 12e, the third magnetic coupling layer 13e, and the fourth
magnetic coupling layer 14e include, for example, the same material
as the first magnetic coupling layer 11e.
[0162] The first opposing magnetic layer 110 includes, for example,
a Co--Fe--B alloy. The first opposing magnetic layer 11o includes,
for example, a (Co.sub.xFe.sub.100-x).sub.100-yB.sub.y alloy (x
being not less than 0 at. % and not more than 100 at. %, and y
being not less than 0 at. % and not more than 30 at. %).
[0163] The layer (e.g., the first nonmagnetic layer 11n) that is
formed on the first opposing magnetic layer 11o can be planarized.
The defect density of the first nonmagnetic layer 11n can be
reduced by planarizing the first nonmagnetic layer 11n. Thereby, a
higher MR ratio is obtained using a lower resistance per area. For
example, in the case where the first nonmagnetic layer 11n includes
MgO, the first opposing magnetic layer 11o includes, for example,
an amorphous alloy of (Co.sub.xFe.sub.100-x).sub.100-yB.sub.y. In
such a case, the (100) orientation of the MgO layer can be
strengthened. A higher MR ratio is obtained by increasing the (100)
orientation of the MgO layer. The
(Co.sub.xFe.sub.100-x).sub.100-yB.sub.y alloy is crystallized using
the (100) plane of the MgO layer as a template when annealing. Good
crystal conformation between the MgO and the
(Co.sub.xFe.sub.100-x).sub.100-yB.sub.y alloy is obtained thereby.
By obtaining good crystal conformation, a higher MR ratio is
obtained.
[0164] The first opposing magnetic layer 11o may include, for
example, an Fe--Co alloy.
[0165] A higher MR ratio is obtained when the first opposing
magnetic layer 11o is thick. For example, a larger fixed magnetic
field is obtained when the first opposing magnetic layer 11o is
thin. The thickness of the first opposing magnetic layer 11o has a
trade-off relationship between the MR ratio and the fixed magnetic
field. In the case where the first opposing magnetic layer 11o
includes a Co--Fe--B alloy, it is favorable for the thickness of
the first opposing magnetic layer 11o to be not less than 1.5 nm
and not more than 5 nm. It is more favorable for the thickness of
the first opposing magnetic layer 11o to be not less than 2.0 nm
and not more than 4 nm.
[0166] The first opposing magnetic layer 11o includes at least one
selected from the group consisting of a Co.sub.90Fe.sub.10 alloy
having a fcc structure, Co having a hcp structure, and a Co alloy
having a hcp structure. The first opposing magnetic layer 11o
includes, for example, at least one selected from the group
consisting of Co, Fe, and Ni. The first opposing magnetic layer 11o
may include, for example, an alloy including at least one selected
from the group consisting of Co, Fe, and Ni. For example, a higher
MR ratio is obtained for the first opposing magnetic layer 11o by
including at least one selected from the group consisting of an
FeCo alloy having a bcc structure, a Co alloy having a cobalt
composition of 50% or more, and a material (a Ni alloy) having a Ni
composition of 50% or more.
[0167] The second opposing magnetic layer 12o, the third opposing
magnetic layer 13o, and the fourth opposing magnetic layer 14o
include, for example, the materials described in reference to the
first opposing magnetic layer 11o. The second opposing magnetic
layer 12o, the third opposing magnetic layer 13o, and the fourth
opposing magnetic layer 14o may include, for example, the same
material as the first opposing magnetic layer 11o.
[0168] The first nonmagnetic layer 11n, the second nonmagnetic
layer 12n, the third nonmagnetic layer 13n, and the fourth
nonmagnetic layer 14n respectively include, for example, the
materials described in reference to the first nonmagnetic layer
11n, the second nonmagnetic layer 12n, the third nonmagnetic layer
13n, and the fourth nonmagnetic layer 14n of the sensor 120
described above. The first nonmagnetic layer 11n, the second
nonmagnetic layer 12n, the third nonmagnetic layer 13n, and the
fourth nonmagnetic layer 14n may respectively include, for example,
the same materials as the first nonmagnetic layer 11n, the second
nonmagnetic layer 12n, the third nonmagnetic layer 13n, and the
fourth nonmagnetic layer 14n of the sensor 120 described above.
[0169] The first magnetic layer 11, the second magnetic layer 12,
the third magnetic layer 13, and the fourth magnetic layer 14 may
respectively include, for example, the materials described in
reference to the first magnetic layer 11, the second magnetic layer
12, the third magnetic layer 13, and the fourth magnetic layer 14
of the sensor 120 described above. The first magnetic layer 11, the
second magnetic layer 12, the third magnetic layer 13, and the
fourth magnetic layer 14 may respectively include, for example, the
same materials as the first magnetic layer 11, the second magnetic
layer 12, the third magnetic layer 13, and the fourth magnetic
layer 14 of the sensor 120 described above.
[0170] The first capping layer 11c protects the layers provided
under the first capping layer 11c. The first capping layer 11c
includes, for example, multiple metal layers. For example, the
first capping layer 11c has a two-layer structure (Ta/Ru) of a Ta
layer and a Ru layer. The thickness of the Ta layer is, for
example, 1 nm; and the thickness of the Ru layer is, for example, 5
nm. The first capping layer 11c may include other metal layers. The
configuration of the first capping layer 11c is arbitrary. For
example, the first capping layer 11c includes a nonmagnetic
material. For example, the first capping layer 11c may include
other materials that can protect the layers provided under the
first capping layer 11c.
[0171] The second capping layer 12c, the third capping layer 13c,
and the fourth capping layer 14c include the materials described in
reference to the first capping layer 11c. The second capping layer
12c, the third capping layer 13c, and the fourth capping layer 14c
may include the same material as the first capping layer 11c.
[0172] In the case where the first magnetic layer 11 includes a
magnetic material including boron, another layer may be provided
between the first magnetic layer 11 and the first capping layer
11c. The other layer includes, for example, at least one selected
from the group consisting of an oxide and a nitride. For example,
such a layer functions as a diffusion suppression layer. Thereby,
for example, the diffusion of the boron is suppressed. By providing
the diffusion suppression layer, for example, the diffusion of the
boron included in the first magnetic layer 11 is suppressed. For
example, the amorphous structure of the first magnetic layer 11 is
maintained easily. The diffusion suppression layer includes, for
example, an oxide including at least one element selected from the
group consisting of Mg, Al, Si, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn,
Zr, Nb, Mo, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ag, Hf, Ta, W, Sn, Cd, and Ga. The
diffusion suppression layer includes, for example, a nitride
including the at least one element recited above. The diffusion
suppression layer is, for example, a layer that substantially does
not contribute to the magnetoresistance effect. It is favorable for
the resistance per area of the diffusion suppression layer to be
low. For example, it is favorable for the resistance per area of
the diffusion suppression layer to be set to be lower than the
resistance per area of the intermediate layer (e.g., the first
nonmagnetic layer 11n) contributing to the magnetoresistance
effect. The diffusion suppression layer includes at least one of,
for example, an oxide including at least one element selected from
the group consisting of Mg, Ti, V, Zn, Sn, Cd, and Ga or a nitride
including the at least one element recited above. In such a case,
the resistance per area of the diffusion suppression layer is
reduced easily. The barrier height is low for these materials. It
is favorable for the diffusion suppression layer to include an
oxide having a strong chemical bond. Thereby, for example, the
diffusion of boron is easily suppressed further. The diffusion
suppression layer includes, for example, a MgO layer of 1.5 nm. An
oxynitride is included in one of the oxide or the nitride.
[0173] In the case where the diffusion suppression layer includes
an oxide or a nitride, it is favorable for the thickness of the
diffusion suppression layer to be, for example, 0.5 nm or more. The
diffusion suppression function of the boron is realized
sufficiently thereby. It is favorable for the thickness of the
diffusion suppression layer to be 5 nm or less. Thereby, for
example, a low resistance per area is obtained. It is favorable for
the thickness of the diffusion suppression layer to be not less
than 0.5 nm and not more than 5 nm, and more favorable to be not
less than 1 nm and not more than 3 nm.
[0174] The diffusion suppression layer may include at least one
selected from the group consisting of magnesium (Mg), silicon (Si),
and aluminum (Al). The diffusion suppression layer includes a
material including these light elements. These light elements
produce compounds by bonding with boron. For example, at least one
of a Mg--B compound, an Al--B compound, or a Si--B compound is
formed at a portion including the interface between the diffusion
suppression layer and the free magnetic layer. These compounds
suppress the diffusion of boron.
[0175] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a
sensor according to the embodiment.
[0176] In the sensor 151 according to the embodiment as shown in
FIG. 10, the first to fourth detecting elements 51 to 54 are
provided in the detector 20.
[0177] The first detecting element 51 includes the first lower
electrode 11a, the first foundation layer 11u, the first pinning
layer 11v, the first pinned magnetic layer 11p, the first magnetic
coupling layer 11e, the first opposing magnetic layer 11o, the
first nonmagnetic layer 11n, the first magnetic layer 11, a first
magnetic coupling adjusting layer 11d, a first opposing pinning
layer 11w, the first capping layer 11c, and the first upper
electrode 11b.
[0178] The second detecting element 52 includes the second lower
electrode 12a, the second foundation layer 12u, the second pinning
layer 12v, the second pinned magnetic layer 12p, the second
magnetic coupling layer 12e, the second opposing magnetic layer
12o, the second nonmagnetic layer 12n, the second magnetic layer
12, a second magnetic coupling adjusting layer 12d, a second
opposing pinning layer 12w, the second capping layer 12c, and the
second upper electrode 12b.
[0179] The third detecting element 53 includes the third lower
electrode 13a, the third foundation layer 13u, the third pinning
layer 13v, the third pinned magnetic layer 13p, the third magnetic
coupling layer 13e, the third opposing magnetic layer 13o, the
third nonmagnetic layer 13n, the third magnetic layer 13, a third
magnetic coupling adjusting layer 13d, a third opposing pinning
layer 13w, the third capping layer 13c, and the third upper
electrode 13b.
[0180] The fourth detecting element 54 includes the fourth lower
electrode 14a, the fourth foundation layer 14u, the fourth pinning
layer 14v, the fourth pinned magnetic layer 14p, the fourth
magnetic coupling layer 14e, the fourth opposing magnetic layer
14o, the fourth nonmagnetic layer 14n, the fourth magnetic layer
14, a fourth magnetic coupling adjusting layer 14d, a fourth
opposing pinning layer 14w, the fourth capping layer 14c, and the
fourth upper electrode 14b.
[0181] The first to fourth detecting elements 51 to 54 of the
sensor 151 are the first to fourth detecting elements 51 to 54 of
the sensor 150 in which the first to fourth magnetic coupling
adjusting layers 11d to 14d and the first to fourth opposing
pinning layers 11w to 14w are further included respectively.
[0182] In the sensor 151, the first to fourth lower electrodes 11a
to 14a, the first to fourth foundation layers 11u to 14u, the first
to fourth pinning layers 11v to 14v, the first to fourth pinned
magnetic layers 11p to 14p, the first to fourth magnetic coupling
layers lie to 14e, the first opposing magnetic layers 11o to 14o,
the first to fourth nonmagnetic layers 11n to 14n, the first to
fourth magnetic layers 11 to 14, the first to fourth capping layers
11c to 14c, and the first to fourth upper electrodes 11b to 14b
include, for example, the materials described in reference to the
sensor 150.
[0183] The first magnetic coupling adjusting layer 11d includes,
for example, a nonmagnetic material. The first magnetic coupling
adjusting layer 11d includes, for example, at least one element
selected from the group consisting of Cu, Ru, Rh, Ir, V, Cr, Nb,
Mo, Ta, W, Au, Ag, Pt, Pd, Ti, Zr, and Hf. For example, the first
magnetic coupling adjusting layer 11d includes a Ru layer of 0.8
nm. The second magnetic coupling adjusting layer 12d, the third
magnetic coupling adjusting layer 13d, and the fourth magnetic
coupling adjusting layer 14d include the materials described in
reference to the first magnetic coupling adjusting layer 11d. The
second magnetic coupling adjusting layer 12d, the third magnetic
coupling adjusting layer 13d, and the fourth magnetic coupling
adjusting layer 14d may include the same material as the first
magnetic coupling adjusting layer 11d.
[0184] For example, the first opposing pinning layer 11w provides
unidirectional anisotropy to the first magnetic layer 11 (the
ferromagnetic layer) formed under the first opposing pinning layer
11w with the first magnetic coupling adjusting layer 11d
interposed. A magnetic bias is applied to the magnetization of the
first magnetic layer 11. For example, the direction of the initial
magnetization of the first magnetic layer 11 is set in one
direction in the state in which strain is not applied to the sensor
151.
[0185] The first opposing pinning layer 11w includes, for example,
an antiferromagnetic layer. The first opposing pinning layer 11w
includes, for example, at least one selected from the group
consisting of Ir--Mn, Pt--Mn, Pd--Pt--Mn, Ru--Mn, Rh--Mn,
Ru--Rh--Mn, Fe--Mn, Ni--Mn, Cr--Mn--Pt, and Ni--O. The first
opposing pinning layer 11w may include an alloy including another
element and at least one selected from the group consisting of
Ir--Mn, Pt--Mn, Pd--Pt--Mn, Ru--Mn, Rh--Mn, Ru--Rh--Mn, Fe--Mn,
Ni--Mn, Cr--Mn--Pt, and Ni--O. The thickness of the first opposing
pinning layer 11w is set appropriately. Thereby, for example,
unidirectional anisotropy that has a sufficient strength is
provided.
[0186] For example, heat treatment is performed while applying a
magnetic field. Thereby, for example, the magnetization of the
ferromagnetic layer contacting the first opposing pinning layer 11w
is fixed. The magnetization of the ferromagnetic layer contacting
the first opposing pinning layer 11w is fixed in the direction of
the magnetic field applied in the heat treatment. For example, the
heat treatment temperature (the annealing temperature) is not less
than the magnetization pinning temperature of the antiferromagnetic
material included in the first opposing pinning layer 11w. In the
case where the first opposing pinning layer 11w includes an
antiferromagnetic layer including Mn, the MR ratio may decrease due
to the Mn diffusing into layers other than the first opposing
pinning layer 11w. It is desirable for the heat treatment
temperature to be set to be not more than the temperature at which
the diffusion of Mn occurs. The heat treatment temperature is, for
example, not less than 200.degree. C. and not more than 500.degree.
C. For example, it is favorable for the heat treatment temperature
to be not less than 250.degree. C. and not more than 400.degree.
C.
[0187] In the case where the first opposing pinning layer 11w
includes at least one selected from the group consisting of PtMn
and PdPtMn, it is favorable for the thickness of the first opposing
pinning layer 11w to be not less than 8 nm and not more than 20 nm.
It is more favorable for the thickness of the first opposing
pinning layer 11w to be not less than 10 nm and not more than 15
nm. Unidirectional anisotropy can be provided by a thinner
thickness when the first opposing pinning layer 11w includes IrMn
than when the first opposing pinning layer 11w includes PtMn. In
the case where the first opposing pinning layer 11w includes IrMn,
it is favorable for the thickness of the first opposing pinning
layer 11w to be not less than 4 nm and not more than 18 nm. In the
case where the first opposing pinning layer 11w includes IrMn, it
is more favorable for the thickness of the first opposing pinning
layer 11w to be not less than 5 nm and not more than 15 nm. The
first opposing pinning layer 11w includes, for example, an
Ir.sub.22Mn.sub.78 layer having a thickness of 7 nm.
[0188] The first opposing pinning layer 11w may include a hard
magnetic layer. The hard magnetic layer may include, for example,
at least one selected from the group consisting of Co--Pt, Fe--Pt,
Co--Pd, and Fe--Pd. For example, the magnetic anisotropy and the
coercivity are relatively high for these materials. These materials
are hard magnetic materials. The first opposing pinning layer 11w
may include an alloy including another element and at least one
selected from the group consisting of Co--Pt, Fe--Pt, Co--Pd, and
Fe--Pd. The first opposing pinning layer 11w may include, for
example, at least one selected from the group consisting of CoPt
(the ratio of Co being not less than 50 at. % and not more than 85
at. %) (Co.sub.xPt.sub.100-x).sub.100-yCr.sub.y (x being not less
than 50 at. % and not more than 85 at. %, and y being not less than
0 at. % and not more than 40 at. %), and FePt (the ratio of Pt
being not less than 40 at. % and not more than 60 at. %).
[0189] The second opposing pinning layer 12w, the third opposing
pinning layer 13w, and the fourth opposing pinning layer 14w
include the materials described in reference to the first opposing
pinning layer 11w. The second opposing pinning layer 12w, the third
opposing pinning layer 13w, and the fourth opposing pinning layer
14w may include the same material as the first opposing pinning
layer 11w.
[0190] The third opposing pinning layer 13w (and the fourth
opposing pinning layer 14w) may respectively include materials that
are different from the materials of the first opposing pinning
layer 11w and the second opposing pinning layer 12w. For example,
the third opposing pinning layer 13w (and the fourth opposing
pinning layer 14w) may include Pt--Mn alloys; and the first
opposing pinning layer 11w (and the second opposing pinning layer
12w) may include Ir--Mn alloys. Thus, by using different materials,
for example, the initial magnetization 13M of the third magnetic
layer 13 (and the initial magnetization 14M of the fourth magnetic
layer 14) can easily cross the initial magnetization 11M of the
first magnetic layer 11 (and the initial magnetization 12M of the
second magnetic layer 12) (referring to FIG. 10).
[0191] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the
sensor according to the embodiment.
[0192] As shown in FIG. 11, the sensor (e.g., the sensor 110 or the
like) according to the embodiment may be provided at a movable
portion 230, etc. In the example, the movable portion 230 is a
human joint, etc. For example, strain is generated in the film
portion 60 according to the rotation of the movable portion 230.
The movement of the movable portion 230 can be detected by the
sensor 110 detecting the strain. The movable portion 230 may be a
portion of a machine.
[0193] As shown in FIG. 11, the sensor (e.g., the sensor 110)
according to the embodiment may include an adhesive layer 65. The
adhesive layer 65 is provided for at least a portion of the film
portion 60. The film portion 60 may be fixed to the movable portion
230 by the adhesive layer 65.
[0194] As shown in FIG. 11, the sensor 110 may further include a
release sheet 66. For example, the adhesive layer 65 is provided
between the release sheet 66 and at least a portion of the film
portion 60 recited above. For example, the release sheet 66 is
peelable from the adhesive layer 65.
[0195] The embodiments include, for example, the following
configurations (e.g., technological proposals).
Configuration 1
[0196] A sensor, comprising:
[0197] a film portion;
[0198] one or more detectors fixed to the film portion; and
[0199] a processor,
[0200] a magnitude of a strain of the film portion including a
first range, and a second range larger than the first range,
[0201] the detector including a first detecting element and a
second detecting element, the first detecting element including a
first magnetic layer, the second detecting element including a
second magnetic layer,
[0202] a first change rate of a first signal being higher than a
second change rate of the first signal, the first signal
corresponding to a first electrical resistance of the first
detecting element, the first change rate being a change rate of the
first signal with respect to a change of the magnitude of the
strain within the first range, the second change rate being a
change rate of the first signal with respect to a change of the
magnitude of the strain within the second range,
[0203] a change rate of a second signal with respect to the change
of the magnitude of the strain within the second range being higher
than the second change rate, the second signal corresponding to a
second electrical resistance of the second detecting element,
[0204] the processor being configured to perform at least a first
operation of outputting a second value, the second value being
based on the second signal and a first value, the first value being
based on the first signal when a first strain is generated in the
film portion, the second signal being when the first strain is
generated in the film portion.
Configuration 2
[0205] The sensor according to Configuration 1, wherein a magnitude
of the first strain is within the second range.
Configuration 3
[0206] The sensor according to Configuration 2, wherein the first
value includes information relating to a direction of the first
strain, and
[0207] the second value includes information relating to the
magnitude of the first strain.
Configuration 4
[0208] The sensor according to any one of Configurations 1 to 3,
wherein a change rate of the second signal of the second detecting
element with respect to the change of the strain within the first
range is lower than the first change rate.
Configuration 5
[0209] The sensor according to any one of Configurations 1 to 4,
wherein the first change rate is 5 times the second change rate or
more.
Configuration 6
[0210] The sensor according to any one of Configurations 1 to 5,
wherein the first detecting element further includes a first
opposing magnetic layer, and a first nonmagnetic layer provided
between the first magnetic layer and the first opposing magnetic
layer,
[0211] the second detecting element further includes a second
opposing magnetic layer, and a second nonmagnetic layer provided
between the second magnetic layer and the second opposing magnetic
layer, and
[0212] a magnetization of the first opposing magnetic layer is
aligned with a magnetization of the second opposing magnetic
layer.
Configuration 7
[0213] The sensor according to Configuration 6, wherein
[0214] the film portion has a first surface,
[0215] one of the first magnetic layer or the first opposing
magnetic layer is provided between the first surface and the other
of the first magnetic layer or the first opposing magnetic layer,
and
[0216] one of the second magnetic layer or the second opposing
magnetic layer is provided between the first surface and the other
of the second magnetic layer or the second opposing magnetic
layer.
Configuration 8
[0217] The sensor according to Configuration 6 or 7, wherein
[0218] the detector further includes a third detecting element and
a fourth detecting element,
[0219] the third detecting element includes a third magnetic layer,
a third opposing magnetic layer, and a third nonmagnetic layer
provided between the third magnetic layer and the third opposing
magnetic layer,
[0220] the fourth detecting element includes a fourth magnetic
layer, a fourth opposing magnetic layer, and a fourth nonmagnetic
layer provided between the fourth magnetic layer and the fourth
opposing magnetic layer,
[0221] a magnetization of the third opposing magnetic layer is
aligned with a magnetization of the fourth opposing magnetic layer,
and
[0222] the magnetization of the third opposing magnetic layer
crosses the magnetization of the first opposing magnetic layer.
Configuration 9
[0223] The sensor according to Configuration 8, wherein
[0224] a third change rate of a third signal corresponding to a
third electrical resistance of the third detecting element is
higher than a fourth change rate of the third signal, the third
change rate being a change rate of the third signal with respect to
the change of the strain within the first range, the fourth change
rate being a change rate of the third signal with respect to the
change of the strain within the second range,
[0225] a change rate of a fourth signal with respect to the change
of the strain within the second range is higher than the fourth
change rate, the fourth signal corresponding to a fourth electrical
resistance of the fourth detecting element, and
[0226] the processor is configured to further perform at least a
second operation of outputting a fourth value based on the fourth
signal and a third value, the third value being based on the third
signal when the first strain is generated in the film portion, the
fourth signal being when the first strain is generated in the film
portion.
Configuration 10
[0227] The sensor according to Configuration 9, wherein
[0228] the third value includes information relating to a direction
of the first strain, and
[0229] the fourth value includes information relating to a
magnitude of the first strain.
Configuration 11
[0230] The sensor according to Configuration 9 or 10, wherein a
change rate of a signal with respect to the change of the strain of
the first range is lower than the third change rate, the signal
corresponding to the fourth electrical resistance of the fourth
detecting element.
Configuration 12
[0231] The sensor according to any one of Configurations 8 to 11,
wherein an angle between the magnetization of the third opposing
magnetic layer and the magnetization of the first opposing magnetic
layer is not less than 45 degrees and not more than 135
degrees.
Configuration 13
[0232] A sensor, comprising:
[0233] a film portion; and
[0234] one or more detectors fixed to the film portion,
[0235] the detector including first to fourth detecting
elements,
[0236] the first detecting element including a first magnetic
layer, a first opposing magnetic layer, and a first nonmagnetic
layer provided between the first magnetic layer and the first
opposing magnetic layer,
[0237] the second detecting element including a second magnetic
layer, a second opposing magnetic layer, and a second nonmagnetic
layer provided between the second magnetic layer and the second
opposing magnetic layer,
[0238] the third detecting element including a third magnetic
layer, a third opposing magnetic layer, and a third nonmagnetic
layer provided between the third magnetic layer and the third
opposing magnetic layer,
[0239] the fourth detecting element including a fourth magnetic
layer, a fourth opposing magnetic layer, and a fourth nonmagnetic
layer provided between the fourth magnetic layer and the fourth
opposing magnetic layer,
[0240] a magnetization of the first opposing magnetic layer being
aligned with a magnetization of the second opposing magnetic
layer,
[0241] a magnetization of the third opposing magnetic layer being
aligned with a magnetization of the fourth opposing magnetic
layer,
[0242] the magnetization of the third opposing magnetic layer
crossing the magnetization of the first opposing magnetic
layer,
[0243] a magnitude of a strain of the film portion including a
first range, and a second range larger than the first range,
[0244] a first change rate of a first signal being higher than a
second change rate of the first signal, the first signal
corresponding to a first electrical resistance of the first
detecting element, the first change rate being a change rate of the
first signal with respect to a change of the magnitude of the
strain within the first range, the second change rate being a
change rate of the first signal with respect to a change of the
magnitude of the strain within the second range,
[0245] a change rate of a second signal with respect to the change
of the magnitude of the strain within the second range being higher
than the second change rate, the second signal corresponding to a
second electrical resistance of the second detecting element,
[0246] a third change rate of a third signal being higher than a
fourth change rate of the third signal, the third signal
corresponding to a third electrical resistance of the third
detecting element, the third change rate being a change rate of the
third signal with respect to the change of the strain within the
first range, the fourth change rate being a change rate of the
third signal with respect to the change of the strain within the
second range,
[0247] a change rate of a fourth signal with respect to the change
of the strain within the second range being higher than the fourth
change rate, the fourth signal corresponding to a fourth electrical
resistance of the fourth detecting element.
Configuration 14
[0248] The sensor according to Configuration 13, wherein
[0249] the film portion has a first surface,
[0250] one of the first magnetic layer or the first opposing
magnetic layer is provided between the first surface and the other
of the first magnetic layer or the first opposing magnetic
layer,
[0251] one of the second magnetic layer or the second opposing
magnetic layer is provided between the first surface and the other
of the second magnetic layer or the second opposing magnetic
layer,
[0252] one of the third magnetic layer or the third opposing
magnetic layer is provided between the first surface and the other
of the third magnetic layer or the third opposing magnetic
layer,
[0253] one of the fourth magnetic layer or the fourth opposing
magnetic layer is provided between the first surface and the other
of the fourth magnetic layer or the fourth opposing magnetic
layer,
[0254] a first length of the first magnetic layer along a first
direction is longer than a first cross-direction length of the
first magnetic layer along a second direction crossing the first
direction, the first direction and the second direction being along
the first surface,
[0255] a second length of the second magnetic layer along the first
direction is longer than a second cross-direction length of the
second magnetic layer along the second direction,
[0256] a third length of the third magnetic layer along a third
direction is longer than a third cross-direction length of the
third magnetic layer along a fourth direction crossing the third
direction, the third direction and the fourth direction being along
the first surface, and
[0257] a fourth length of the fourth magnetic layer along the third
direction is longer than a fourth cross-direction length of the
fourth magnetic layer along the fourth direction.
Configuration 15
[0258] The sensor according to Configuration 14, wherein
[0259] the third direction crosses the first direction, and
[0260] the fourth direction crosses the second direction.
Configuration 16
[0261] The sensor according to Configuration 14 or 15, wherein
[0262] a ratio of the first length to the first cross-direction
length is lower than a ratio of the second length to the second
cross-direction length, and
[0263] a ratio of the third length to the third cross-direction
length is lower than a ratio of the fourth length to the fourth
cross-direction length.
Configuration 17
[0264] The sensor according to any one of Configurations 13 to 16,
wherein
[0265] the first to fourth magnetic layers include FeB, and
[0266] the first to fourth opposing magnetic layers include
NiFe.
Configuration 18
[0267] The sensor according to any one of Configurations 1 to 17,
wherein
[0268] the detector includes a plurality of the first detecting
elements,
[0269] at least two of the plurality of first detecting elements
are connected in series, and
[0270] the first electrical resistance includes electrical
resistances of the plurality of first detecting elements.
Configuration 19
[0271] The sensor according to any one of Configurations 1 to 18,
further comprising an adhesive layer provided for at least a
portion of the film portion.
Configuration 20
[0272] The sensor according to Configuration 19, further comprising
a release sheet,
[0273] the adhesive layer being provided between the release sheet
and the at least a portion of the film portion,
[0274] the release sheet being peelable from the adhesive
layer.
[0275] According to the embodiments, a sensor that has higher
sensitivity can be provided.
[0276] In this specification, the "state of being electrically
connected" includes the state in which multiple conductive bodies
are physically in contact, and a current flows between the multiple
conductive bodies. The "state of being electrically connected"
includes the state in which another conductive body is inserted
between multiple conductive bodies, and a current flows between the
multiple conductive bodies.
[0277] In the specification of the application, "perpendicular" and
"parallel" refer to not only strictly perpendicular and strictly
parallel but also include, for example, the fluctuation due to
manufacturing processes, etc. It is sufficient to be substantially
perpendicular and substantially parallel.
[0278] Hereinabove, exemplary embodiments of the invention are
described with reference to specific examples. However, the
embodiments of the invention are not limited to these specific
examples. For example, one skilled in the art may similarly
practice the invention by appropriately selecting specific
configurations of components included in sensors such as film
portions, detectors, detecting elements, magnetic layers,
nonmagnetic layers, processors, etc., from known art. Such practice
is included in the scope of the invention to the extent that
similar effects thereto are obtained.
[0279] Further, any two or more components of the specific examples
may be combined within the extent of technical feasibility and are
included in the scope of the invention to the extent that the
purport of the invention is included.
[0280] Moreover, all sensors practicable by an appropriate design
modification by one skilled in the art based on the sensors
described above as embodiments of the invention also are within the
scope of the invention to the extent that the spirit of the
invention is included.
[0281] Various other variations and modifications can be conceived
by those skilled in the art within the spirit of the invention, and
it is understood that such variations and modifications are also
encompassed within the scope of the invention.
[0282] While certain embodiments have been described, these
embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not
intended to limit the scope of the inventions. Indeed, the novel
embodiments described herein may be embodied in a variety of other
forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in
the form of the embodiments described herein may be made without
departing from the spirit of the inventions. The accompanying
claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or
modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the
invention.
* * * * *