Near-field hybrid magnetic-optical head system
US6807131B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 27, 2000 |
| Grant date | Oct 19, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 16, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG11B2005/0021
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A hybrid magnetic-optical head apparatus wherein one or more solid state lasers, magnetic field biasing elements, magnetic sensing elements, and an aerodynamically shaped slider comprise a single integrated, monolithic device fabricated from the same base semiconductor material into an optical head. The monolithic optical head can be quickly and easily attached to the read arm of an optical read/write device without requiring attachment of separate laser and magnetic elements, and without micropositioning or use of optical microscopy for positioning the lasers or magnetic elements. The hybrid magnetic-optical head apparatus includes a magnetic-optical function region having a semiconductor laser and at least one magnetic element. Preferably, the magnetic-optical function region of the substrate includes a magnetic field biasing element associated with the semiconductor laser, as well as a magnetic sensing element. The slider portion of the magnetic optical head preferably includes an aerodynamically shaped air cavity as well as an air bearing surface, with the emission face of the laser preferably is substantially co-planar with the air bearing surface. The magnetic-optical functio…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.