JP4243314B2 - Magnetic pattern transfer method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention uses a magnetic pattern transfer master in which a magnetic pattern including servo information for read / write head positioning is formed in advance, and applies the magnetic field from the outside, thereby recording the magnetic pattern on a magnetic disk or the like. The present invention relates to a magnetic pattern transfer method for transferring to a medium.

  In general, in an information storage device such as a magnetic disk device, a magnetic pattern including servo information indispensable for positioning a read / write head at the time of information (data) read operation and write operation is applied to a magnetic pattern such as a magnetic disk. It is necessary to write in advance on the recording medium.

  In particular, the present invention provides a magnetic pattern transfer master in which a magnetic pattern including servo information for positioning a read / write head is formed in advance in order to cope with an increase in capacity of a magnetic disk device and an increase in recording density. By magnetizing the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium using the leakage magnetic flux generated from the magnetic pattern when a magnetic field is applied from the outside when approaching the recording medium, the magnetic pattern is applied to the magnetic recording medium with high accuracy. It refers to one technique for transferring.

  In recent years, an information storage device such as a large-capacity magnetic disk device has been required, and along with this, the recording density in a magnetic recording medium such as a magnetic disk tends to increase year by year. Therefore, in order to position the read / write head on the magnetic recording medium with high accuracy at the time of information (data) read operation and write operation, a dedicated device is used to increase the density by mechanical accuracy. It has become difficult to create a magnetic pattern including servo information.

  On the other hand, in order to minimize the manufacturing cost of the magnetic disk device, there is a need for a method for easily creating a magnetic pattern including high-density servo information without using a dedicated device as described above. It was. In relation to this, conventionally, a method of transferring a magnetic pattern to a magnetic recording medium using a magnetic pattern transfer master in which a magnetic pattern including high-density servo information is formed in advance has been performed.

  Here, the principle of magnetic pattern transfer will be briefly described. When a magnetic pattern transfer master on which a magnetic pattern including servo information is formed in advance is brought close to a magnetic recording medium and a magnetic field is applied from the outside, a leakage magnetic flux is generated in the pattern groove (or pattern protrusion) of the magnetic pattern. . The magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium is magnetized in a predetermined direction by the magnetic field (magnetic field) due to the leakage magnetic flux, and the magnetic pattern having a dimension substantially corresponding to the dimension of the pattern groove part of the magnetic pattern (that is, the width of the pattern groove part) is magnetized. Transferred to the magnetic film of the recording medium.

  Here, for reference, prior art documents as an example of a conventional magnetic pattern transfer method are shown below.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-6170

  The contents of this prior art document will be described in detail in the section of “Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention” to be described later when a comparison with a preferred embodiment of the present invention is made.

However, as described above, the recording density of magnetic recording media tends to increase year by year as the capacity of magnetic disk devices increases in recent years. Therefore, since a higher density magnetic pattern is required, the size of the magnetic pattern transferred to the magnetic recording medium (particularly, the width of the magnetic pattern) is further reduced (for example, 50 nm (5 × 10 ⁻⁸ )). m) or less). As a result, the conventional method has a problem that it becomes difficult to create a high-resolution magnetic pattern transfer master having the same dimensions as the magnetic pattern to be transferred to the magnetic recording medium.

  On the other hand, in a plurality of magnetic patterns having a finite length, the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux at the end of the magnetic pattern becomes weak. Therefore, when the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic recording medium, the magnetization of the magnetic film at the position of the end portion of the magnetic pattern becomes weak and the variation becomes large. As a result, there arises a problem that the lengths of the magnetic patterns transferred to the magnetic recording medium are not uniform.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and a magnetic pattern transfer master in which a magnetic pattern including servo information and the like is formed in advance while minimizing the manufacturing cost of an information storage device such as a magnetic disk device. The main object of the present invention is to provide a magnetic pattern transfer method capable of transferring a magnetic pattern having a higher density than before to a magnetic recording medium with high accuracy.

  Furthermore, the present invention provides a magnetic pattern transfer method for preventing the length of each magnetic pattern from becoming uneven when a plurality of magnetic patterns having a finite length are transferred to a magnetic recording medium. For other purposes.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention brings a magnetic pattern transfer master having a magnetic portion in which a predetermined magnetic pattern is formed in advance to a magnetic recording medium having a magnetic film for recording magnetic information. In order to enhance the adhesion between the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic portion of the magnetic pattern transfer master when the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic recording medium by applying a magnetic field from the outside. Provided is a magnetic pattern transfer method for transferring the magnetic pattern to the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium in the course of manufacturing the magnetic recording medium.

  Preferably, in the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention, in the course of manufacturing the magnetic recording medium, the magnetic film is connected to the magnetic film forming chamber after the magnetic film is formed and before the protective film is formed. The magnetic pattern is transferred in a vacuum in a certain area.

  Further preferably, in the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the present invention, in the course of manufacturing the magnetic recording medium, the magnetic film is connected to the magnetic film forming chamber after the magnetic film is formed and before the protective film is formed. The magnetic pattern is transferred in an inert gas gas in the region where it is formed.

  Further preferably, in the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention, in the course of the process of manufacturing the magnetic recording medium, after forming the magnetic film and forming a part of the protective film, The magnetic pattern is transferred in a region connected to the chamber in vacuum, and after the magnetic pattern is transferred, the remaining portion of the protective film is formed.

  Further preferably, in the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention, in the course of the process of manufacturing the magnetic recording medium, after forming the magnetic film and forming a part of the protective film, The magnetic pattern is transferred in an inert gas gas in a region connected to the chamber, and after the magnetic pattern is transferred, the remaining portion of the protective film is formed.

  Further preferably, in the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention, a protective film is formed after the magnetic film is formed in the course of manufacturing the magnetic recording medium, and a lubricant layer is formed after the protective film is formed. In the middle of adding, the magnetic pattern is transferred in the lubricant liquid in a region connected to the magnetic film forming chamber.

  On the other hand, according to the present invention, a magnetic pattern transfer master having a magnetic part in which a predetermined magnetic pattern is formed in advance is brought close to a magnetic recording medium having a magnetic film for recording magnetic information, and a magnetic field is externally applied. When transferring the magnetic pattern to the magnetic recording medium by applying, the magnetic pattern transfer master using the magnetic pattern transfer master in which the width of the pattern groove of the magnetic pattern is narrower than the width of the pattern protrusion. Provided is a magnetic pattern transfer method for transferring the magnetic pattern onto the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium a plurality of times while shifting the relative position of the master.

  Preferably, in the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention, the direction of the magnetic field applied from the outside is shifted while the relative position of the magnetic pattern transfer master is shifted by a dimension equal to or smaller than the width of the pattern groove portion of the magnetic pattern. The magnetic pattern is transferred while alternately overwriting a part of the magnetic pattern.

  Further preferably, in the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention, the relative position of the magnetic pattern transfer master is shifted with respect to at least one of the circumferential direction and the radial direction of the magnetic recording medium. The magnetic pattern is transferred.

  On the other hand, according to the present invention, a magnetic pattern transfer master having a magnetic part in which a predetermined magnetic pattern is formed in advance is brought close to a magnetic recording medium having a magnetic film for recording magnetic information, and a magnetic field is externally applied. When the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic recording medium by applying, when a portion of the magnetic pattern having a finite length in the magnetic pattern of the magnetic pattern transfer master is constituted by a groove, Provided is a magnetic pattern transfer method in which the magnetic pattern is formed so that the corner of the end of the magnetic pattern portion having a finite length is rounded, and the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium. To do.

  Preferably, in the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention, after exposing the positive resist applied on the magnetic portion of the magnetic pattern transfer master, the portion of the magnetic pattern having the finite length is formed in the groove. Thus, by etching the magnetic part, a magnetic pattern transfer master having a relatively narrow groove width at the end of the magnetic pattern part having the finite length is produced. ing.

  In summary, according to the present invention, first, during the process of manufacturing the magnetic recording medium, the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium before forming the protective film or the lubricant layer. Therefore, the distance between the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern of the magnetic pattern transfer master is smaller than before, and the adhesion between the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern of the magnetic pattern transfer master is reduced. Becomes higher.

  As a result, the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux generated from the magnetic pattern of the magnetic pattern transfer master becomes relatively strong. By using this magnetic field, a magnetic pattern having a higher density than the conventional one can be transferred to a magnetic recording medium with high accuracy. Is possible. In this case, since a high-density magnetic pattern is transferred using a commonly used magnetic pattern transfer master without using an expensive dedicated device, the manufacturing cost of a magnetic disk device or the like is minimized. It becomes possible to limit to the limit.

  Furthermore, in the present invention, secondly, since the magnetic pattern transfer master is used in which the width of the pattern groove of the magnetic pattern is narrower than the width of the pattern protrusion, the width of the pattern groove and the width of the pattern protrusion are approximately the same. This makes it easier to manufacture a magnetic pattern transfer master than the conventional magnetic pattern transfer master. Using the magnetic pattern transfer master thus manufactured, the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium a plurality of times while shifting the relative position of the magnetic pattern transfer master. Therefore, even if a high-density magnetic pattern transfer master is not used, a magnetic pattern having the same dimensions as the width of the pattern groove portion of the magnetic pattern transfer master and a higher resolution than the conventional one can be transferred to a magnetic recording medium. It becomes possible.

  In this case, since the width of the pattern protrusion of the magnetic pattern transfer master is relatively large, the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic field generated from this pattern protrusion becomes relatively strong, and this field is used to achieve higher resolution than before. The transfer of the magnetic pattern can be easily realized.

  Furthermore, in the present invention, thirdly, when a plurality of magnetic patterns having a finite length are constituted by grooves in the magnetic pattern of the magnetic pattern transfer master, the corners of the end portions of the plurality of magnetic patterns are The magnetic pattern is formed so as to be round, and the magnetic pattern is transferred onto the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium using the magnetic pattern transfer master on which such a magnetic pattern is formed.

  As a result, the width of the groove at the end of the plurality of magnetic patterns is relatively narrow, and the gradient of the intensity of the magnetic field generated at the end of the magnetic pattern becomes steeper than before, so that the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium A boundary line indicating whether the magnetic pattern is magnetized or not magnetized at the end of the magnetic pattern transferred to the magnetic field becomes clear. As a result, the length of each magnetic pattern in the magnetic film after transfer can be avoided from being uneven, and a plurality of magnetic patterns of finite length can be transferred to a magnetic recording medium with high definition. .

  In order to clarify the features and advantages of the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention and the effects provided by the magnetic pattern transfer method, the present invention will first be described with reference to the accompanying drawings (FIGS. 1 to 4). A general magnetic pattern transfer method to which is not applied will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an arrangement example of magnetic patterns transferred onto a magnetic recording medium, and FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining a conventional typical magnetic pattern transfer method.

  However, here, one magnetic recording medium 1 in a plurality of magnetic recording media (for example, a plurality of magnetic disks) provided in a general magnetic disk device is shown as a representative. Hereinafter, the same components as those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  As shown in FIG. 1, when information (data) reading and writing operations are performed in a general magnetic disk apparatus, a read / write head 9 supported by an arm 8 is used for a predetermined track 2 on a magnetic recording medium 1. The information is written to the position and the information written to the position is read. Therefore, normally, a magnetic pattern MP including servo information necessary for positioning the read / write head 9 with respect to a predetermined position of the track 2 with high accuracy is written in advance on the magnetic recording medium 1. Here, the magnetic recording medium 1 includes a non-magnetic medium substrate 1-1 and a magnetic film 1-2 (see FIG. 2) formed on the medium substrate 1-1 (see FIG. 2). Have. In the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1, the magnetic pattern MP region composed of a plurality of pattern blocks is formed in a fan shape with respect to the plurality of tracks 2 arranged concentrically from the inner diameter portion to the outer diameter portion. Has been.

  Conventionally, in order to minimize the manufacturing cost of a magnetic disk device, a method of easily creating a magnetic pattern including high-density servo information without using an expensive dedicated device has been performed.

  More specifically, conventionally, as shown in FIG. 2, a magnetic pattern transfer master 300 having a magnetic portion 400 on which a magnetic pattern to be transferred is previously formed is used, and the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic recording medium 1. A method of previously writing a target magnetic pattern MP on the magnetic recording medium 1 by transferring the magnetic film 1-2 onto the magnetic film 1-2 has been performed. However, here, as a representative example of a magnetic pattern transfer master used for magnetic pattern transfer, a non-magnetic master base material (that is, a master substrate) 500 such as a silicon substrate and a magnetic pattern to be transferred are the master. A magnetic pattern transfer master 300 having a magnetic part 400 embedded in a base material 500 is used.

  Here, a conventional typical magnetic pattern transfer method will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. First, a magnetic pattern transfer master 300 having a magnetic portion 400 on which a magnetic pattern including servo information is previously formed is brought close to the magnetic recording medium 1. Next, a permanent magnet MG is arranged from the outside so as to cover the magnetic part 400 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300, and a constant applied magnetic field EF generated between the N pole and the S pole of the permanent magnet MG is used for magnetic pattern transfer. Applied to the master 300.

  By this externally applied magnetic field EF, each magnetic pattern of the magnetic part 400 is magnetized in the same direction as the applied magnetic field EF (that is, a direction parallel to the surfaces of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 and the magnetic recording medium 1). A magnetic field IF is generated in the magnetic pattern. At this time, a leakage magnetic flux LF is generated in the pattern gap part (that is, the pattern groove part) GP between the adjacent magnetic patterns. The magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field EF by the magnetic field (magnetic field) due to the leakage magnetic flux LP, and has a dimension substantially corresponding to the pattern gap portion GP of the magnetic pattern. The magnetic pattern MP is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1.

  Actually, a gap is generated between the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 and the magnetic recording medium 1, and the leakage magnetic flux LF wraps around the magnetic pattern of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 due to this gap. It should be noted that the dimension of the magnetic pattern MP transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 is slightly larger than the dimension of the pattern gap part GP.

  FIG. 3 is a front view showing a schematic structure of a general magnetic recording medium, and FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a manufacturing process of a normal magnetic recording medium.

  When the recording density of the magnetic recording medium 1 is further increased and the size of the magnetic pattern of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 is further reduced, the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux LF generated when the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic recording medium 1 is relatively increased. Weakens. On the other hand, since the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux LF generated by the transfer is stronger as it is closer to the magnetic pattern transfer master 300, the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 and the magnetic portion 400 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 It is necessary to reduce the distance of as much as possible.

However, normally, as shown in FIG. 3, on the surface of the magnetic recording medium 1 in which all film formation processes are completed, a protective film 1 having a thickness of about 10 nm (10 ⁻⁸ m) is formed on the magnetic film 1-2. 3 and a lubricant layer 1-4 are formed. More specifically, when the magnetic recording medium 1 is manufactured in a normal manufacturing process, as shown in FIG. 4, in the first magnetic film forming process (1), a vacuum deposition method is used in the vacuum chamber C. A magnetic film 1-2 is formed on a non-magnetic medium substrate 1-1. Next, in the second protective film adding step (2), the protective film 1-3 such as a DLC (Diamond-Like-Carbon) film is formed on the magnetic film 1-by the vacuum deposition method in the same vacuum chamber C. 2 is formed.

  Further, in the third lubricant addition step (3), for example, the magnetic recording medium 1 is immersed in a container V filled with a liquid of a lubricant L such as a fluorine-based lubricant, thereby providing a lubricant layer. 1-4 is formed on the protective film 1-3. In this way, all the film forming processes of the magnetic recording medium 1 are completed (completed magnetic recording medium (4)). The magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 thus completed.

  As is apparent from FIGS. 3 and 4, in the normal manufacturing process of the magnetic recording medium 1, a protective film 1-3 having a thickness of about 10 nm and a lubricant layer 1-4 are added on the magnetic film 1-2. Therefore, it has been difficult to reduce the distance between the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 and the magnetic portion 400 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300.

  On the other hand, in the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention, as shown in the first to sixth embodiments to be described later, the magnetic pattern is applied to the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium during the process of manufacturing the magnetic recording medium. By performing the transfer, the distance between the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic portion of the magnetic pattern transfer master is shortened to improve the adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master.

  As a prior art related to the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention, a method of forming a lubricant layer on the surface of a magnetic disk after transferring the magnetization pattern to the magnetic part of the magnetic disk using a magnetic transfer master Is disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-6170 (publication date: January 12, 2001), which is the above-mentioned prior art document. However, this prior art document provides a method of applying a lubricant layer to the surface of the magnetic disk to which the magnetic pattern has been transferred in order to avoid the occurrence of abnormal protrusions on the surface of the magnetic disk. Only.

  On the other hand, in the present invention, as described above, a protective film or a lubricant layer is provided in the middle of the process of manufacturing the magnetic recording medium for the purpose of reducing the distance between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master. Before forming the magnetic pattern, the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium. In other words, in the present invention, the formation of the lubricant layer after the magnetic pattern transfer is only one means for improving the adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master. The technical idea is different.

  Hereinafter, magnetic pattern transfer methods according to first to sixth embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings (FIGS. 5 to 11).

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the first embodiment of the present invention. However, here, the manufacturing process of the magnetic recording medium 1 related to the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention is shown in a simplified manner.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in the first embodiment of the present invention, in the first magnetic film forming step (1), as in the conventional case, the nonmagnetic material is formed in the vacuum chamber C by vacuum deposition. A magnetic film 1-2 is formed on the medium substrate 1-1. Next, as shown in the second magnetic pattern transfer step (2), before the protective film 1-3 is formed after the magnetic film 1-2 is formed, the inside of the vacuum chamber C for forming the magnetic film or In a vacuum region connected to the vacuum chamber C, the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1.

  Here, the magnetic pattern transfer method in the second magnetic pattern transfer step (2) will be described in more detail. First, a magnetic layer is formed on a non-magnetic master base material (that is, a master substrate) 5 such as a silicon substrate of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3, and this magnetic layer is exposed and etched to form a pattern. A magnetic pattern having the groove G is formed in advance. Next, a magnetic pattern transfer master 3 having a magnetic portion 4 in which this magnetic pattern is formed in advance is brought close to the magnetic recording medium 1. Further, a permanent magnet MG is arranged from the outside so as to cover the magnetic part 4 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3, and a constant applied magnetic field generated between the N pole and the S pole of the permanent magnet MG is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer master 3. Apply to.

  By this externally applied magnetic field, each magnetic pattern of the magnetic part 4 is magnetized in the same direction as the applied magnetic field (that is, the direction parallel to the surfaces of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 and the magnetic recording medium 1), and the magnetic field A magnetic field is generated in the pattern. At this time, a leakage magnetic flux is generated in the pattern groove portion G between the adjacent magnetic patterns. The magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field by the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux, and the magnetic pattern having a dimension corresponding to the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern is the magnetic recording medium 1. Is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2.

  After the magnetic pattern is transferred, a protective film 1-3 is formed on the magnetic film 1-2 in the vacuum chamber C by a vacuum vapor deposition method as shown in the third protective film addition step (3). Further, in the fourth lubricant addition step (4), the magnetic recording medium 1 is immersed in the container V filled with the liquid of the lubricant L, thereby forming the lubricant layer 1-4 on the protective film 1-3. Formed on top (not shown). In this way, the manufacturing process of the magnetic recording medium 1 is completed.

  In the first embodiment of FIG. 5, since the magnetic pattern is formed on the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium before adding the protective film and the lubricant layer, the magnetic film and magnetic pattern of the magnetic recording medium are formed. The distance between the magnetic part of the transfer master and the magnetic part becomes smaller than before, the adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master is increased, and a high-density magnetic pattern can be transferred.

  Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master is increased, and there is almost no gap between the magnetic pattern transfer master and the magnetic recording medium. The leakage magnetic flux does not wrap around the magnetic pattern of the pattern transfer master. Therefore, the dimension of the magnetic pattern transferred to the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium is substantially the same as the dimension of the pattern groove portion G.

  On the other hand, since the magnetic film is generally made of a metal such as iron, it is easily oxidized. Therefore, in the state where the protective film is not formed on the magnetic film as in the first embodiment of FIG. 5 (particularly, the magnetic pattern transfer step (2)), in order to prevent the magnetic film from being oxidized, It is desirable to transfer the magnetic pattern with

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining a magnetic pattern transfer method according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Here, however, the manufacturing process of the magnetic recording medium 1 related to the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention is shown in a simplified manner.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the second embodiment of the present invention, in the first magnetic film forming step (1), as in the conventional case, the nonmagnetic material is formed in the vacuum chamber C by vacuum deposition. A magnetic film 1-2 is formed on the medium substrate 1-1. Next, as shown in the second magnetic pattern transfer step (2), after the magnetic film 1-2 is formed, the protective film 1-3 is connected to the vacuum chamber C for forming the magnetic film. The magnetic pattern is transferred onto the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 in a region in the inert gas gas (for example, the chamber C ′ filled with the inert gas gas). Since the magnetic pattern transfer method in the magnetic pattern transfer step (2) is substantially the same as that in the first embodiment, detailed description thereof is omitted here.

  After the magnetic pattern is transferred, a protective film 1-3 is formed on the magnetic film 1-2 in the vacuum chamber C by a vacuum vapor deposition method as shown in the third protective film addition step (3). Further, in the fourth lubricant addition step (4), the magnetic recording medium 1 is immersed in the container V filled with the liquid of the lubricant L, thereby forming the lubricant layer 1-4 on the protective film 1-3. Formed on top (not shown). In this way, the manufacturing process of the magnetic recording medium 1 is completed.

  In the second embodiment shown in FIG. 6, as in the first embodiment, the magnetic pattern is transferred onto the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium before the protective film and the lubricant layer are added. As a result, the distance between the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic portion of the magnetic pattern transfer master is smaller than before, and the adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master is increased. The pattern can be transferred.

  On the other hand, since the magnetic film is generally made of a metal such as iron, it is easily oxidized. Therefore, in the state where the protective film is not formed on the magnetic film as in the second embodiment shown in FIG. 6 (particularly, the magnetic pattern transfer step (2)), in order to prevent oxidation of the magnetic film, it is inactive. It is desirable to transfer the magnetic pattern in a chamber C ′ filled with a gas. Further, after arranging the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master in the chamber C ′ filled with the inert gas, the chamber C ′ is evacuated by drawing the inert gas from the chamber C ′. As a result, the adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master can be made higher than in the case of the first embodiment of FIG.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a magnetic pattern transfer method according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Here, however, the manufacturing process of the magnetic recording medium 1 related to the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention is shown in a simplified manner.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the third embodiment of the present invention, in the first magnetic film forming step (1), as in the conventional case, a nonmagnetic material is formed by vacuum deposition in a vacuum chamber C. A magnetic film 1-2 is formed on the medium substrate 1-1 (not shown). Next, as shown in the second first protective film addition step (2), after the magnetic film 1-2 is formed, a part of the protective film 1-3 (for example, a normal film thickness of 1/2) (Refer to the first protective film 1-3a in FIG. 7).

  Further, as shown in the third magnetic pattern transfer step (3), the magnetic recording medium 1 is formed in the vacuum chamber C for forming a magnetic film or in a vacuum region connected to the vacuum chamber C. The magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2. Since the magnetic pattern transfer method in this magnetic pattern transfer step (3) is also substantially the same as in the case of the first embodiment, detailed description thereof is omitted here. However, in the third embodiment, since a part of the protective film 1-3 is thinly formed on the magnetic film 1-2, the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1. In addition, the surface of the magnetic film 1-2 can be prevented from being damaged.

  After the transfer of the magnetic pattern, as shown in the fourth second protective film addition step (4), the remaining portion of the protective film 1-3 (second filter in FIG. The protective film 1-3b is formed on the first protective film 1-3a. Further, in the fifth lubricant addition step (5), the magnetic recording medium 1 is immersed in the container V filled with the liquid of the lubricant L, thereby forming the lubricant layer 1-4 as the second protective film. It is formed on 1-3b (not shown). In this way, the manufacturing process of the magnetic recording medium 1 is completed.

  In the third embodiment of FIG. 7, the magnetic pattern is transferred onto the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium before adding a part of the protective film and the lubricant layer. The distance between the magnetic portion of the magnetic pattern transfer master and the magnetic portion of the magnetic pattern transfer master becomes smaller than before, and the adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master increases.

  On the other hand, since the magnetic film is generally made of a metal such as iron, it is easily oxidized. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, before the magnetic pattern transfer step (3) is performed, a protective film having a thin film thickness that does not affect the adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master is formed on the magnetic film. By forming the magnetic film, the magnetic film can be prevented from being oxidized and the surface of the magnetic film can be prevented from being damaged while maintaining high adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining a magnetic pattern transfer method according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Here, however, the manufacturing process of the magnetic recording medium 1 related to the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention is shown in a simplified manner.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the fourth embodiment of the present invention, in the first magnetic film forming step (1), as in the conventional case, a nonmagnetic material is formed in the vacuum chamber C by vacuum deposition. A magnetic film 1-2 is formed on the medium substrate 1-1 (not shown). Next, as shown in the second first protective film addition step (2), after the magnetic film 1-2 is formed, a part of the protective film 1-3 (for example, a normal film thickness of 1/2) Protective film: Refer to the first protective film 1-3a in FIG. 8).

  Further, as shown in the third magnetic pattern transfer step (3), the region in the inert gas gas (for example, filled with the inert gas liquid) connected to the vacuum chamber C for forming the magnetic film is used. In the chamber C ′), the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1. Since the magnetic pattern transfer method in this magnetic pattern transfer step (3) is also substantially the same as in the case of the first embodiment, detailed description thereof is omitted here. However, in the fourth embodiment, a part of the protective film 1-3 is formed thinly on the magnetic film 1-2, as in the case of the third embodiment described above, so that the magnetic recording medium 1 When the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2, the surface of the magnetic film 1-2 can be prevented from being damaged.

  After the transfer of the magnetic pattern, as shown in the fourth second protective film addition step (4), the remaining portion of the protective film 1-3 (second filter in FIG. The protective film 1-3b is formed on the first protective film 1-3a. Further, in the fifth lubricant addition step (5), the magnetic recording medium 1 is immersed in the container V filled with the liquid of the lubricant L, thereby forming the lubricant layer 1-4 as the second protective film. It is formed on 1-3b (not shown). In this way, all film forming processes of the magnetic recording medium 1 are completed.

  In the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the magnetic pattern is transferred onto the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium before adding a part of the protective film and the lubricant layer. The distance between the magnetic portion of the magnetic pattern transfer master and the magnetic portion of the magnetic pattern transfer master becomes smaller than before, and the adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master increases.

  On the other hand, since the magnetic film is generally made of a metal such as iron, it is easily oxidized. In the embodiment of FIG. 8, before the magnetic pattern transfer step (3) is performed, a protective film having a thin film thickness that does not affect the adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master is formed on the magnetic film. By forming the magnetic film, the magnetic film can be prevented from being oxidized and the surface of the magnetic film can be prevented from being damaged while maintaining high adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master. Further, after arranging the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master in the chamber C ′ filled with the inert gas, the chamber C ′ is evacuated by drawing the inert gas from the chamber C ′. As a result, the adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master can be made higher than in the third embodiment of FIG.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining a magnetic pattern transfer method according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Here, however, the manufacturing process of the magnetic recording medium 1 related to the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention is shown in a simplified manner.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in the fifth embodiment of the present invention, in the first magnetic film forming step (1), as in the conventional case, a nonmagnetic material is formed by vacuum deposition in a vacuum chamber C. A magnetic film 1-2 is formed on the medium substrate 1-1. Next, as shown in the second first protective film addition step (2), the protective film 1-3 is formed after the magnetic film 1-2 is formed.

  Further, as shown in the third lubricant addition step and magnetic pattern transfer step (3), the magnetic recording medium 1 is immersed in the container V filled with the liquid of the lubricant L after the formation of the protective film 1-3. Thus, the lubricant layer 1-4 is formed. During the formation of the lubricant layer 1-4, the magnetic film 1- 1 of the magnetic recording medium 1 in the liquid of the lubricant L is formed in a region connected to the vacuum chamber C for forming the magnetic film. Transfer of the magnetic pattern to 2 is performed. Here, during the formation of the lubricant layer 1-4, the magnetic pattern is transferred in the liquid of the lubricant L, so that dust and dirt can be removed even in vacuum or in an inert gas. Can be prevented from adhering to the surface of the magnetic recording medium 1. The magnetic pattern transfer method in the lubricant adding step and the magnetic pattern transfer step (3) is also substantially the same as in the case of the first embodiment, and the detailed description thereof is omitted here.

  After the transfer of the magnetic pattern, a lubricant layer 1-4 having a final thickness is formed on the protective film 1-3. In this way, the manufacturing process of the magnetic recording medium 1 is completed (completed magnetic recording medium (4)).

  In the fifth embodiment of FIG. 9, the magnetic pattern is transferred onto the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium when the lubricant layer is not completely formed on the magnetic film. The distance between the magnetic film and the magnetic part of the magnetic pattern transfer master is smaller than before, and the adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master is increased.

  In any of the first to sixth embodiments described above, the distance between the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern of the magnetic pattern transfer master is smaller than before, and the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer are reduced. Adhesion with the magnetic pattern of the master is increased. Therefore, the magnetic field caused by the leakage magnetic flux generated from the magnetic pattern of the magnetic pattern transfer master becomes relatively strong, and this magnetic field is used to transfer a magnetic pattern having a higher density than before to a magnetic recording medium with high accuracy. Is possible. Further, since a high-density magnetic pattern is transferred using a commonly used magnetic pattern transfer master, the manufacturing cost of a magnetic disk device or the like can be minimized.

  FIG. 10 is a plan view showing an example of a magnetic pattern transfer master used in the conventional magnetic pattern transfer method, and FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram for explaining the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. However, in both FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, a part of the master for magnetic pattern transfer used for transferring the magnetic pattern is shown enlarged.

  Here, as an example of a master for magnetic pattern transfer used in a conventional magnetic pattern transfer method, a magnetic having irregularities is provided so that the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the sixth embodiment of FIG. 11 can be easily compared. A magnetic pattern transfer master having a magnetic layer in which a pattern is formed in advance is presented.

  Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B, a process of manufacturing a magnetic pattern transfer master 300 used in a conventional magnetic pattern transfer method will be described. In the first step, a magnetic layer 350 is formed on a non-magnetic master base material (that is, master substrate) 500 by vacuum deposition. When a negative resist RS is applied on the magnetic layer 350 and exposed, a negative pattern is formed on the magnetic layer 350 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 (FIG. 10A). In the second step, the magnetic layer 350 is etched in a state in which a negative pattern of the negative resist RS is formed on the magnetic layer 350 (FIG. 10B).

  By this etching, a magnetic pattern having irregularities composed of the pattern groove portion G ′ and the pattern projection portion P ′ is formed. The magnetic pattern of the magnetic layer 350 formed in this way has a reverse relationship with the negative pattern formed by the negative resist RS.

  In the conventional magnetic pattern transfer master 300 on which the magnetic pattern as shown in FIG. 10B is formed, the area of the pattern protrusion P ′ (pattern protrusion) and the area of the pattern groove G ′ (pattern recess) are the same. It is almost the same. Therefore, when the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium, the area of the surface S ′ of the pattern protrusion P ′ that contacts the surface of the magnetic film becomes relatively small, and the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern The degree of adhesion with the transfer master 300 is not so good.

  On the other hand, when the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 used in the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention is manufactured, as shown in FIG. Thus, the magnetic layer 40 is formed on the non-magnetic master substrate (that is, the master substrate) 5. When a negative resist RS is applied on the magnetic layer 40 and exposed, a negative pattern is formed on the magnetic layer 40 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 ((a) of FIG. 11). In the second step, the magnetic layer 40 is etched in a state in which a negative pattern of the negative resist RS is formed on the magnetic layer 40 ((b) of FIG. 11). The magnetic pattern of the magnetic layer 40 formed in this way has a reverse relationship with the negative pattern formed by the negative resist RS. As described above, the manufacturing process of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 used in the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention is substantially the same as the conventional case.

  However, in the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 on which the magnetic pattern as shown in FIG. 11B is formed, the area of the pattern protrusion P (pattern protrusion) is larger than the area of the pattern groove G (pattern recess). ing. Therefore, in the sixth embodiment, when the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium, the area of the surface S of the pattern protrusion P that contacts the surface of the magnetic film becomes relatively large. The adhesion between the magnetic recording medium and the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is improved.

  Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment, in order to produce the magnetic pattern as described above on the magnetic layer 40 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3, a negative pattern made of the negative resist RS is formed on the magnetic layer 40. It is formed. In this negative pattern, as shown in FIG. 11A, the area of the convex portion of the resist RS is narrower than the area of the concave portion. In general, with regard to the resist pattern, a pattern in which either the area of the convex part or the concave part is narrower than the area of the other than the pattern in which the area of the convex part and the area of the concave part are the same. Tends to be easier to manufacture. Therefore, the resist pattern used in the sixth embodiment has an advantage that it is easier to produce than the conventional resist pattern.

  FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a magnetic pattern transferred by a conventional magnetic pattern transfer method. However, here, a part of the magnetic pattern transfer master and the magnetic recording medium used for the transfer of the magnetic pattern are shown enlarged. Further, here, a method of transferring a magnetic pattern to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 using the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 as shown in FIG.

  The magnetic pattern transfer method shown in FIG. 12 is basically the same as the magnetic pattern transfer method shown in FIG. However, in this case, the conventional magnetic pattern transfer method of FIG. 12 will be described in detail in order to facilitate comparison with magnetic pattern transfer methods according to seventh to thirteenth embodiments of the present invention described later. I decided to.

  In FIG. 12, first of all, a magnetic pattern transfer having a magnetic part 400 (corresponding to the magnetic layer 350 in FIG. 10) in which a magnetic pattern having irregularities composed of a pattern groove part G ′ and a pattern protrusion part P ′ is previously formed. The master 300 is moved closer to the magnetic recording medium 1. Next, a permanent magnet (not shown) is disposed so as to cover the magnetic portion 400 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300, and a constant applied magnetic field EF generated from the permanent magnet is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer master 300. .

  By this externally applied magnetic field EF, each magnetic pattern of the magnetic part 400 is magnetized in the same direction as the applied magnetic field EF (that is, a direction parallel to the surfaces of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 and the magnetic recording medium 1). A magnetic field is generated in the magnetic pattern. At this time, a leakage magnetic flux is generated in the pattern groove portion G ′ between adjacent magnetic patterns. The magnetic film 1-2 on the medium substrate 1-1 of the magnetic recording medium 1 is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field EF by the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux, and substantially corresponds to the pattern groove portion G ′ of the magnetic pattern. The magnetic pattern MP having such a dimension is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1.

As shown in FIG. 12, in the conventional magnetic pattern transfer master 300, the dimension (width) of the pattern protrusion P ′ and the dimension (width) of the pattern groove G ′ are substantially the same. As described above, with the recent increase in capacity of magnetic disk devices, a magnetic pattern including higher-density servo information is required, and the pattern protrusion P of the magnetic pattern transferred to the magnetic recording medium is required. The dimension of 'and the dimension of the pattern groove G' are further reduced (for example, 50 nm (5 × 10 ^-8 m) or less). For this reason, the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux generated in the pattern groove portion G ′ of the magnetic pattern becomes weak.

  On the other hand, when the dimension of the pattern protrusion P ′ of the magnetic pattern is reduced, the magnetic field supplied from the pattern protrusion P ′ to the pattern groove G ′ is weakened, so that the magnetic field due to leakage magnetic flux generated in the pattern groove G ′. Will become even weaker.

  Therefore, with the conventional magnetic pattern transfer method, it has become difficult to create a high-resolution magnetic pattern transfer master having the same dimensions as the magnetic pattern transferred onto the magnetic recording medium.

  On the other hand, in the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention, a magnetic pattern transfer master is used in which the dimension (width) of the pattern groove of the magnetic pattern to be transferred is narrower than the dimension (width) of the pattern protrusion. By transferring the magnetic pattern to the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium multiple times while shifting the relative position of the transfer master, the magnetic pattern transfer can be performed without using a high-density magnetic pattern transfer master. Therefore, it becomes possible to transfer a magnetic pattern having a higher resolution than the conventional one to the magnetic recording medium having the same dimensions as the width of the pattern groove of the master.

  As described above, the magnetic recording medium 1 to be subjected to magnetic pattern transfer is usually formed by forming the magnetic film 1-2 on the medium substrate 1-1 and then forming the protective film and the protective film on the magnetic film 1-2. Produced by forming a layer of lubricant (both not shown). In this case, as in the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 9 described above, the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 is formed before the protective film or lubricant layer is formed during the production of the magnetic recording medium 1. The magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 a plurality of times while shifting the relative position of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 without adopting the method of transferring the magnetic pattern. Thus, it should be noted that it becomes possible to transfer a magnetic pattern having a higher resolution than before to a magnetic recording medium.

  Hereinafter, magnetic pattern transfer methods according to seventh to thirteenth embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings (FIGS. 13 to 27).

  FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram for explaining a magnetic pattern transfer method according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. However, here, a part of the magnetic pattern transfer master and the magnetic recording medium used for the transfer of the magnetic pattern are shown enlarged.

  In the seventh embodiment of FIG. 13, a magnetic pattern transfer master 3 having a magnetic portion 4 in which the dimension (width) of the pattern groove G of the magnetic pattern to be transferred is narrower than the dimension (width) of the pattern protrusion P is used. ing. Therefore, as described in the sixth embodiment of FIG. 11, a conventional magnetic pattern transfer master 300 in which the dimension (width) of the pattern groove and the dimension (width) of the pattern protrusion are comparable (see FIG. 12). ) Makes it easier to produce a magnetic pattern transfer master.

  When the first magnetic pattern transfer is performed using the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 thus manufactured, first, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is brought close to the magnetic recording medium 1. Next, a permanent magnet (not shown) is disposed so as to cover the magnetic part 4 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3, and a constant applied magnetic field EF generated from the permanent magnet is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer master 3. .

  Due to the externally applied magnetic field EF, the pattern protrusions P of the magnetic pattern of the magnetic portion 4 are in the same direction as the applied magnetic field EF (that is, the direction parallel to the surfaces of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 and the magnetic recording medium 1). Magnetized to generate a magnetic field in the pattern protrusion P. When the magnetic field in the pattern protrusion P is supplied to the pattern groove G, a leakage magnetic flux is generated in the pattern groove G. The magnetic film 1-2 on the medium substrate 1-1 of the magnetic recording medium 1 is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field EF by the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux, and substantially corresponds to the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern. A magnetic pattern MP having dimensions is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1.

  Further, in the seventh embodiment of FIG. 13, the magnetic pattern transfer is repeatedly performed a plurality of times while the relative position of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is shifted. As a result, a magnetic pattern transfer master that is easier to manufacture than the prior art is used to transfer a magnetic pattern having a higher resolution than the conventional one to the magnetic recording medium 1 having the same dimensions as the width of the pattern groove of the magnetic pattern transfer master. Will be able to.

  The magnetic pattern transfer master 3 used here is supplied from the pattern protrusion P to the pattern groove G because the dimension (width) of the pattern protrusion P of the magnetic pattern is larger than the dimension (width) of the pattern groove G. The magnetic field is relatively strong. As a result, the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux generated in the pattern groove portion G is also relatively strong, and transfer of a magnetic pattern with higher resolution than before can be easily realized using this magnetic field.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a first specific example (part 1) of the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the embodiment of FIG. 13, and FIG. 15 is a first specific example of the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the embodiment (part 1). It is a figure which shows 2). Here, however, a part of the magnetic pattern transfer master and the magnetic recording medium used for the transfer of the magnetic pattern are shown enlarged. Furthermore, it is assumed here that the magnetic pattern is transferred twice while the relative position of the magnetic pattern transfer master is shifted.

  14 and 15, first, a sufficiently large magnetic field is applied to the magnetic recording medium 1 in a specific direction (for example, the direction opposite to the externally applied magnetic field EF) to All parts of the magnetic film 1-2 on the material 1-1 are initialized (see the initialized part IP in FIG. 14).

  Further, when the first magnetic pattern transfer is performed using the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 in which the dimension of the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern is narrower than the dimension of the pattern protrusion P, the first transfer (a) in FIG. As shown, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is brought close to the magnetic recording medium 1. Further, a permanent magnet (not shown) is disposed so as to cover the magnetic portion 4 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3, and a constant applied magnetic field EF generated from the permanent magnet is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer master 3.

  By this externally applied magnetic field EF, the pattern protrusion P of the magnetic pattern of the magnetic portion 4 is magnetized in the same direction as the applied magnetic field EF, and a magnetic field is generated in the pattern protrusion P. Leakage magnetic flux is generated in the pattern groove G by the magnetic field in the pattern protrusion P. The magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field EF by the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux, and the magnetic pattern MP-1 having the same dimensions as the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern is magnetized. It is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the recording medium 1.

  Further, when transferring the second magnetic pattern, as shown in the second transfer (b) in FIG. 15, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 or the magnetic recording medium 1 is shifted in the same direction while being shifted. The applied magnetic field EF is applied, and the magnetic pattern transfer as described above is repeated. As a result, at the position different from the magnetic pattern MP-1 transferred by the first magnetic pattern transfer, the same dimensions as in the first magnetic pattern transfer (that is, the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3). A magnetic pattern MP-2 having a size) is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1.

  Finally, the magnetic patterns MP-1 and MP-2 transferred by the first and second magnetic pattern transfer have the same dimensions as the pattern groove part G of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3, And it is magnetized in the same direction (for example, the direction of the applied magnetic field EF). On the other hand, a magnetic pattern magnetized in a direction opposite to the applied magnetic field EF is formed between the first magnetic pattern MP-1 and the second magnetic pattern MP-2 adjacent to each other by initialization. Yes. Therefore, in this case, a magnetic pattern having a shorter pattern period than the magnetic pattern transfer mask 3 is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1.

  14 and 15, the magnetic pattern MP-1 transferred at the first time is represented by thin hatching, and the magnetic pattern MP-2 transferred at the second time is represented by thick hatching.

  In the first specific example of FIGS. 14 and 15, a magnetic pattern transfer master having a pattern groove portion narrower than the pattern protrusion portion is used, and either the magnetic pattern transfer master or the magnetic recording medium is used. Since the magnetic pattern transfer is repeated while shifting the position, a high-resolution magnetic pattern with a shorter pattern cycle than the conventional one can be used on the magnetic recording medium without using a high-density magnetic pattern transfer master. Can be transferred.

  16 is a schematic view showing a second specific example (part 1) of the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the embodiment of FIG. 13, and FIG. 17 is a second specific example (part 2) of the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the embodiment. ) And FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing a second specific example (No. 3) of the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the above embodiment.

  Here, however, a part of the magnetic pattern transfer master and the magnetic recording medium used for the transfer of the magnetic pattern are shown enlarged. Furthermore, here, it is assumed that the magnetic pattern is transferred three times by alternately changing the direction of the magnetic field from the outside while shifting the relative position of the magnetic pattern transfer master.

  In the second specific example of FIGS. 16 to 18, first, a relatively large magnetic field is applied to the magnetic recording medium 1 in a specific direction, and all of the magnetic film 1-2 on the medium substrate 1-1 is applied. The part of is initialized.

  Further, when the first magnetic pattern transfer is performed using the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 in which the dimension of the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern is narrower than the dimension of the pattern protrusion P, the first transfer (a ), The magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is moved closer to the magnetic recording medium 1. Further, a permanent magnet (not shown) is arranged so as to cover the magnetic part 4 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3, and a constant applied magnetic field EF (+) generated from the permanent magnet is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer master 3. Is applied in a preset direction (for example, the direction of the arrow in FIG. 16).

  By this externally applied magnetic field EF (+), the pattern protrusion P of the magnetic pattern of the magnetic portion 4 is magnetized in the same direction as the applied magnetic field EF (+), and a magnetic field is generated in the pattern protrusion P. Leakage magnetic flux is generated in the pattern groove G by the magnetic field in the pattern protrusion P. Due to the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux, the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field EF (+), and has the same dimension as the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern. 1 (+) is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1.

  Further, when the second magnetic pattern transfer is performed, as shown in the second transfer (b) in FIG. 17, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 or the magnetic recording medium 1 has a dimension equal to or smaller than the width of the pattern groove G. Shift one of the positions. At the same time, the direction of the externally applied magnetic field is changed, and the applied magnetic field EF (-) in the opposite direction to the applied magnetic field EF (+) at the time of the first magnetic pattern transfer is applied. Repeat the transfer.

  Thereby, the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field EF (−) (that is, the direction opposite to the applied magnetic field EF (+)), and the magnetic pattern MP-1 (− ) Is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1. In this case, the magnetization direction of the magnetic pattern MP-1 (−) at the second magnetic pattern transfer is opposite to the magnetization direction of the magnetic pattern MP-1 (+) at the first magnetic pattern transfer. Therefore, the magnetic pattern MP-1 (−) at the second magnetic pattern transfer is overwritten on a part of the magnetic pattern MP-1 (+) at the first magnetic pattern transfer. Therefore, a magnetic pattern having a size smaller than the size of the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1.

  Further, when transferring the magnetic pattern for the third time, as shown in the third transfer (c) in FIG. 18, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 or the magnetic recording medium 1 is not more than the width of the pattern groove G. Shift one of the positions. At the same time, the direction of the externally applied magnetic field is changed again, and the applied magnetic field EF (−) in the direction opposite to the applied magnetic field EF (−) at the second magnetic pattern transfer (that is, applied magnetic field at the first magnetic pattern transfer) EF. (+) Is applied to repeatedly transfer the magnetic pattern as described above.

  As a result, the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field EF (+), and the magnetic pattern MP-3 (+) is formed on the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1. Transcribed. In this case, the magnetization direction of the magnetic pattern MP-3 (+) during the third magnetic pattern transfer is opposite to the magnetization direction of the magnetic pattern MP-2 (−) during the second magnetic pattern transfer. Therefore, the magnetic pattern MP-3 (+) at the time of the third magnetic pattern transfer is overwritten on a part of the magnetic pattern MP-2 (−) at the time of the second magnetic pattern transfer.

  As shown in FIG. 18, the final magnetic pattern transferred by the first to third transfer of the magnetic pattern has a size smaller than the size of the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3; In addition, the period is shorter than the period of the magnetic pattern in the first specific example shown in FIGS. 16 to 18, the magnetic patterns MP-1 (+) and MP-3 (+) transferred at the first time and the third time are represented by thin hatching, and the magnetic pattern MP-2 transferred at the second time. (−) Is represented by thick hatching in a direction different from that of the magnetic patterns MP-1 (+) and MP-3 (+).

  In the second specific example of FIGS. 16 to 18, the relative position of either the magnetic pattern transfer master or the magnetic recording medium is shifted from the outside by an amount equal to or smaller than the width of the pattern groove portion of the magnetic pattern. Since the magnetic pattern is transferred while alternately overwriting part of the magnetic pattern by alternately changing the direction of the applied magnetic field, it is possible to use a magnetic pattern transfer master that is not so dense. A high-resolution magnetic pattern having a pattern period shorter than that of the first specific example of FIGS. 14 and 15 described above can be transferred to a magnetic recording medium.

  FIG. 19 is a schematic view showing a third specific example (part 1) of the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the embodiment of FIG. 13, and FIG. 20 is a third specific example of the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the above-described embodiment ( It is a schematic diagram which shows the 2).

  Here, however, a part of the magnetic pattern transfer master and the magnetic recording medium used for the transfer of the magnetic pattern are shown enlarged. Furthermore, here, in the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 such as a magnetic disk used in a general magnetic disk device, a plurality of tracks (FIG. 1) are arranged concentrically from the inner diameter portion to the outer diameter portion. Suppose that the magnetic pattern is continuously transferred in the circumferential direction or the radial direction.

  In the third specific example of FIGS. 19 and 20, first, a sufficiently large magnetic field is applied to a plurality of tracks of the magnetic recording medium 1 in a specific direction, and on the medium substrate 1-1 in each track. All parts of the magnetic film 1-2 are initialized.

  Further, when the first magnetic pattern transfer is performed for every several tracks in the plurality of tracks using the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 in which the dimension of the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern is narrower than the dimension of the pattern protrusion P, As shown in FIG. 19, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is brought close to the magnetic film 1-2 for several tracks of the magnetic recording medium 1. Further, a permanent magnet (not shown) is disposed so as to cover the magnetic portion 4 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3, and a constant applied magnetic field generated from the permanent magnet is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer master 3.

  By this externally applied magnetic field, the pattern protrusion P of the magnetic pattern of the magnetic portion 4 is magnetized in the same direction as the applied magnetic field (for example, the tangential direction of each track), and a magnetic field is generated in the pattern protrusion P. Leakage magnetic flux is generated in the pattern groove G by the magnetic field in the pattern protrusion P. The magnetic film 1-2 of several tracks of the magnetic recording medium 1 is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field by the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux. As a result, as shown in FIG. 19, a magnetic pattern MP-1 having the same dimensions as the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 for several tracks of the magnetic recording medium 1.

  Further, when the second magnetic pattern is transferred to the above-mentioned several tracks, as shown in (a) (transfer shifted only in the circumferential direction) in the lower half of FIG. A magnetic field applied in the tangential direction of each track is applied while shifting the position of either the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 or the magnetic recording medium 1 with respect to the direction, and the magnetic pattern transfer as described above is repeated. As a result, the same dimensions as in the first magnetic pattern transfer (that is, the magnetic pattern) at a position different from the magnetic pattern MP-1 transferred by the first magnetic pattern transfer in the circumferential direction of the magnetic recording medium 1. The magnetic pattern MP-2 having the dimension of the pattern groove portion G of the pattern transfer master 3 is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of several tracks of the magnetic recording medium 1.

  In FIG. 19, as an example EP of the transferred magnetic pattern, the magnetic pattern MP-1 for several tracks transferred at the first time is represented by thin hatching, and the magnetic pattern MP for several tracks transferred at the second time. -2 is represented by thick hatching.

  Further, when the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is used to transfer the first magnetic pattern to several other tracks among the plurality of tracks, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is moved to move the magnetic pattern transfer master 3. It is made to approach the magnetic film 1-2 for several other tracks. Further, a permanent magnet is disposed so as to cover the magnetic part 4 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3, and a constant applied magnetic field generated from the permanent magnet is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer master 3.

  With this externally applied magnetic field, the magnetic pattern MP-1 having the same dimensions as the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic recording medium 1 as in the case of the first magnetic pattern transfer for several tracks described above. Transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 for several other tracks.

  Further, when the second magnetic pattern transfer is performed on the other several tracks, the magnetic recording medium 1 is magnetically transferred in the circumferential direction as in the second magnetic pattern transfer for the several tracks described above. A magnetic field applied in the tangential direction of each track is applied while shifting the position of either the pattern transfer master 3 or the magnetic recording medium 1, and the magnetic pattern transfer as described above is repeated. As a result, the magnetic pattern MP-2 having the same dimensions as in the first magnetic pattern transfer is transferred to a position different from the magnetic pattern MP-1 transferred by the first magnetic pattern transfer. Are transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 for several tracks.

  In this manner, in the third specific example of FIG. 19, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is sequentially moved to transfer the first and second magnetic patterns every several tracks of the plurality of tracks. The transfer of the magnetic pattern to all the tracks arranged in the circumferential direction of the magnetic recording medium 1 can be performed continuously.

  On the other hand, as shown in the third specific example of FIG. 20, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 of the same type as the magnetic pattern transfer master of FIG. When the first magnetic pattern transfer is performed, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is brought close to the magnetic film 1-2 of several tracks of the magnetic recording medium 1 as in the case of FIG. Further, a permanent magnet is disposed so as to cover the magnetic part 4 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3, and a constant applied magnetic field generated from the permanent magnet is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer master 3.

  By this externally applied magnetic field, the pattern protrusion P of the magnetic pattern of the magnetic portion 4 is magnetized in the same direction as the applied magnetic field (for example, the tangential direction of each track), and a magnetic field is generated in the pattern protrusion P. Leakage magnetic flux is generated in the pattern groove G by the magnetic field in the pattern protrusion P. The magnetic film 1-2 of several tracks of the magnetic recording medium 1 is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field by the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux. As a result, as shown in FIG. 20, a magnetic pattern MP-1 having the same dimensions as the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of several tracks of the magnetic recording medium 1.

  Further, when the second magnetic pattern transfer is performed on the above-mentioned several tracks, the circumference of the magnetic recording medium 1 is particularly shown in (b) (transfer also shifted in the radial direction) in the lower half of FIG. A magnetic field applied in the tangential direction of each track is applied while shifting the position of either the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 or the magnetic recording medium 1 with respect to the direction and the radial direction, and the above magnetic pattern transfer is repeated. . As a result, the same dimensions as in the first transfer of the magnetic pattern (that is, the magnetic pattern) are located at positions shifted in the radial direction as well as in the circumferential direction of the magnetic pattern MP-1 transferred by the first transfer of the magnetic pattern. The magnetic pattern MP-2 having the dimension of the pattern groove portion G of the pattern transfer master 3 is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of several tracks of the magnetic recording medium 1.

  In FIG. 20, as in the case of FIG. 19 described above, as an example EP of the transferred magnetic pattern, the magnetic pattern MP-1 for several tracks transferred at the first time is represented by thin hatching, and is displayed at the second time. The transferred magnetic patterns MP-2 for several tracks are represented by thick hatching.

  Further, when the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is used to transfer the first magnetic pattern to several other tracks in the plurality of tracks, the magnetic pattern transfer master is the same as in the case of FIG. 3 is moved to approach the magnetic film 1-2 for several other tracks of the magnetic recording medium 1. Further, a permanent magnet is disposed so as to cover the magnetic part 4 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3, and a constant applied magnetic field generated from the permanent magnet is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer master 3.

  With this externally applied magnetic field, the magnetic pattern MP-1 having the same dimensions as the pattern groove portion G of the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic recording medium 1 as in the case of the first magnetic pattern transfer for several tracks described above. Transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 for several other tracks.

  Further, when the second magnetic pattern transfer is performed on the other several tracks, the circumferential direction and the radial direction of the magnetic recording medium 1 are performed in the same manner as the second magnetic pattern transfer for the several tracks described above. On the other hand, a magnetic field applied in the tangential direction of each track is applied while shifting the position of either the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 or the magnetic recording medium 1, and the magnetic pattern transfer as described above is repeated. As a result, the magnetic pattern having the same dimensions as in the first magnetic pattern transfer is located at a position shifted not only in the circumferential direction but also in the radial direction of the magnetic pattern MP-1 transferred by the first magnetic pattern transfer. MP-2 is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 for several other tracks of the magnetic recording medium 1.

  In this way, in the third specific example of FIG. 20, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is sequentially moved to transfer the first and second magnetic patterns every several tracks of the plurality of tracks. The magnetic pattern can be continuously transferred to all the tracks arranged at positions shifted in the radial direction as well as in the circumferential direction of the magnetic recording medium 1.

  In the third specific example of FIG. 19 and FIG. 20, at least one of the circumferential direction and the radial direction of the magnetic recording medium using a magnetic pattern transfer master in which the dimension of the pattern groove is smaller than the dimension of the pattern protrusion. The magnetic pattern transfer is repeated while shifting the position of either the magnetic pattern transfer master or the magnetic recording medium, so that it is a relatively complex shape that can be formed over several tracks. In addition, a high-resolution magnetic pattern can be efficiently transferred to a magnetic recording medium.

  FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram for explaining a magnetic pattern transfer method according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. However, here, the entire magnetic pattern transfer master and magnetic recording medium used for transferring the magnetic pattern are shown in a simplified manner.

  For example, as described with reference to FIG. 20, the magnetic pattern is transferred a plurality of times while shifting the position of either the magnetic pattern transfer master or the magnetic recording medium with respect to the circumferential direction and the radial direction of the magnetic recording medium 1. When it is repeated a plurality of times, in order to transfer a high-resolution magnetic pattern to the magnetic recording medium 1, the amount of displacement from the reference position of the magnetic film 1-1 with respect to the magnetic portion 4 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is accurately determined Must be set.

Therefore, in the eighth embodiment of FIG. 21, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 and the magnetic recording medium 1 are mounted on a rotary stage (not shown), and the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is used by using this rotary stage. Alternatively, any one of the magnetic recording media 1 is rotated by a minute amount in a specific direction (for example, a direction represented by an arrow). Thereby, for example, on the order of nm (10 ⁻⁹ m), the amount of displacement from the reference position of the magnetic film 1-1 with respect to the magnetic portion 4 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 can be set with high accuracy. .

2 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining the magnetic pattern transfer method according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. However, here, the magnetic pattern transfer master, auxiliary master, and part of the magnetic recording medium used for the transfer of the magnetic pattern are shown enlarged.

In the ninth embodiment shown in FIG. 22, an auxiliary master 30 in which a groove 32 is formed in advance is superposed on a magnetic pattern transfer master 3 used for transferring a magnetic pattern. The auxiliary master 30 is disposed so as to cover a pattern block constituting a magnetic pattern formed in advance on the magnetic portion 4 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 .

  With the auxiliary master 30 arranged as described above, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 is brought closer to the magnetic recording medium 1. Further, a permanent magnet (not shown) is disposed so as to cover the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 and the auxiliary master 30, and an applied magnetic field EF generated from the permanent magnet is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 and the auxiliary master 30. To do.

The applied magnetic field EF from the outside, concentrated by a magnetic field (magnetic field) (corresponding to the generated magnetic field MF in FIG. 2) generated in the groove portion of the auxiliary master 30. In other words, the magnetic field is concentrated and applied to the pattern block portion of the magnetic pattern of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3 via the groove portion of the auxiliary master 30.

Thus, in the ninth embodiment of FIG. 2 2, in transferring a magnetic pattern to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1, through the groove of the auxiliary master 30, magnetically applied magnetic field EF from the outside It can be efficiently applied to the pattern block portion of the pattern. As a result, the externally applied magnetic field EF can be efficiently supplied to the partial MPP including the magnetic pattern of the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1, and the externally applied magnetic field EF is so strong. Even without this, the high-resolution magnetic pattern MP can be transferred to the magnetic recording medium 1.

2 3 the magnetic pattern transfer method according to a first 0 embodiment of the present invention is a schematic diagram for explaining a (first), 2 4 is a magnetic pattern transfer method according to the embodiment (Part 2) It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating. Here, however, a part of the magnetic pattern transfer master and the perpendicular magnetic recording medium used for the transfer of the magnetic pattern is shown enlarged. Furthermore, it is assumed here that the magnetic pattern is transferred twice while the relative position of the magnetic pattern transfer master is shifted.

In the embodiments described so far, a horizontal magnetic recording medium for horizontal magnetic recording (usually simply referred to as a magnetic recording medium) has been used as a magnetic recording medium to be subjected to magnetic pattern transfer. However, in the embodiment of the first 0 of FIG. 3 and FIG 4, a method for transferring a magnetic pattern to a perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a for perpendicular magnetic recording.

In the first 0 of the embodiment of FIG. 2 3 and 2 4, a perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a to be subjected to the magnetic pattern transfer, as in the case of the above-described longitudinal magnetic recording medium, the non-magnetic media substrate 1 After the magnetic film 1-2a is formed on the magnetic film 1-2a, a protective film and a lubricant layer (both not shown) are formed on the magnetic film 1-2a.

In an embodiment of the first 0 of the above, a specific direction with respect to the manner perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a that is manufactured (e.g., a direction perpendicular to the plane of the magnetic film 1-2a) a sufficiently large magnetic field to Application is performed to initialize all portions of the magnetic film 1-2a on the medium substrate 1-1a.

Furthermore, when performing transfer of first magnetic pattern with a narrow magnetic pattern transfer master 3a than the size dimension of the pattern protrusion Pa of the pattern grooves Gb magnetic pattern, first transfer of FIG. 2 3 (a ), The magnetic pattern transfer master 3a is brought close to the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a. Further, a permanent magnet (not shown) is supplied such that a constant magnetic field is supplied in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the magnetic portion 4a of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3a and the surface of the magnetic film 1-2a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a. And a constant applied magnetic field EF generated from the permanent magnet is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer master 3a.

  Due to this externally applied magnetic field EF, the pattern protrusions Pa of the magnetic pattern of the magnetic portion 4a are in the same direction as the applied magnetic field EF (ie, the direction perpendicular to the surfaces of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3a and the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a). Is magnetized. The magnetic film 1-2a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field EF by the magnetic field from the pattern protrusion Pa thus magnetized, and the pattern protrusion Pa of the magnetic pattern The magnetic pattern MPa-1 having the same dimensions is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a.

  In this case, the magnetic pattern of the pattern protrusion Pa of the magnetic portion 4a is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a. Therefore, the magnetization direction of the magnetic pattern MPa-1 transferred to the magnetic film 1-2a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a is perpendicular to the surface of the magnetic film 1-2a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a. Yes.

Furthermore, when performing transfer of the second magnetic pattern, as shown in the second transfer of FIG. 2 4 (b), while shifting the one of the position of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3a or perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a An applied magnetic field EF in the same direction is applied, and transfer of the magnetic pattern as described above is repeated. As a result, at the position different from the magnetic pattern MPa-1 transferred by the first magnetic pattern transfer, the same dimensions as in the first magnetic pattern transfer (that is, the pattern protrusion Pa of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3a). ) Is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a.

  Finally, the magnetic patterns MPa-1 and MPa-2 transferred by transferring the first and second magnetic patterns have the same dimensions as the pattern protrusions of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3a. And it is magnetized in the same direction (for example, the direction of the applied magnetic field EF). On the other hand, a magnetic pattern magnetized in a direction opposite to the applied magnetic field EF is formed between the adjacent first magnetic pattern MPa-1 and the second magnetic pattern MPa-2 by initialization. Yes. Therefore, in this case, a magnetic pattern having a shorter pattern period than the magnetic pattern transfer mask 3a is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a.

In FIG 2 3 and 2 4, expressed by thin hatching magnetic pattern MPa-1 transferred to the first, the magnetic pattern MPa-2 that has been transferred to the second represents the thick hatching.

In the first 0 of the embodiment of FIG. 2 3 and 2 4, a magnetic pattern dimension of the pattern protrusion Pa of the magnetic pattern to be transferred (width) having a narrow magnetic portion 4a than the dimension of the pattern groove Gb (width) A transfer master 3a is used. Therefore, as in the seventh embodiment of FIG. 13, the conventional magnetic pattern transfer master 300 (see FIG. 12) in which the dimension (width) of the pattern groove and the dimension (width) of the pattern protrusion are comparable. This makes it easier to produce a magnetic pattern transfer master.

In an embodiment of the first 0 of the above, the dimensions of the pattern protrusions with a narrow magnetic pattern transfer master than the dimension of the pattern groove, shifting one of the position of the magnetic pattern transfer master or perpendicular magnetic recording medium However, since the magnetic pattern is repeatedly transferred, a high-resolution magnetic pattern having a shorter pattern period than before can be transferred to a perpendicular magnetic recording medium without using a high-density magnetic pattern transfer master. be able to.

2 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining the magnetic pattern transfer method according to a first 1 of the embodiment of the present invention. Here, however, a part of the magnetic pattern transfer master and the perpendicular magnetic recording medium used for the transfer of the magnetic pattern is shown enlarged. Further, here, for the sake of simplicity, it is assumed here that the magnetic pattern transfer is performed once using the magnetic pattern transfer master.

In the first 1 of the embodiment of FIG. 2 5, the case of producing a perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1 as a target of the magnetic pattern transfer, to form a film of the base layer 1-2b on the media substrate 1-1 nonmagnetic Then, the magnetic film 1-2a is formed on the underlayer 1-2b. Further, by forming a protective film and a lubricant layer (both not shown) on the magnetic film 1-2a, all film forming processes of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a are completed. In the first 1 embodiment described above, unlike the first 0 of the embodiment described above, between the media substrate 1-1a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a and the magnetic film 1-2a, the magnetic film 1 A base layer 1-2b serving as a base of -2a is formed.

In the first Example 1 of the above, a specific direction with respect to the manner perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a that is manufactured (e.g., a direction perpendicular to the plane of the magnetic film 1-2a) a sufficiently large magnetic field to Application is performed to initialize all portions of the magnetic film 1-2a on the medium substrate 1-1a.

Furthermore, if the dimensions of the pattern protrusion Pa of the magnetic pattern effect transfer of the magnetic pattern with a narrow magnetic pattern transfer master 3a than the size of the pattern grooves Gb, as shown in FIG. 2 5, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3a is brought close to the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a. Further, a permanent magnet MGa is arranged so that a constant magnetic field is supplied in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the magnetic portion 4a of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3a and the surface of the magnetic film 1-2a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a. A constant applied magnetic field EF generated from the permanent magnet MGa is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer master 3a.

In other words, in the first 1 embodiment above, the magnetic field and the pattern protrusion Pa of the magnetic pattern of the magnetic pattern transfer master 1a, by the magnetic film 1-2a and the underlayer 1-2b of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a The applied magnetic field EF is supplied from the outside by a permanent magnet MGa or the like so as to form a loop (magnetic field loop) ML.

  Due to this externally applied magnetic field EF, the pattern protrusions Pa of the magnetic pattern of the magnetic portion 4a are in the same direction as the applied magnetic field EF (ie, the direction perpendicular to the surfaces of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3a and the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a). Is magnetized. The magnetic film 1-2a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field EF by the magnetic field from the magnetized pattern protrusion P, and has the same dimensions as the pattern protrusion Pa of the magnetic pattern. The magnetic pattern MPa is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a.

In the first 1 embodiment described above, the loop ML applied field EF and an external magnetic field, the magnetic field in the portion of the magnetic film 1-2a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a through the pattern protrusion Pa of the magnetic portion 4a is Applied in a concentrated manner.

Thus, in the first 1 of the embodiment of FIG. 2 5, in transferring a magnetic pattern to the magnetic film 1-2 of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1, the pattern projection of the magnetic portion 4a of the applied magnetic field EF from the outside Pa Can be applied efficiently. As a result, the externally applied magnetic field EF can be efficiently supplied to the magnetic film 1-2a of the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1a, and even if the externally applied magnetic field EF is not so strong, high resolution can be achieved. The magnetic pattern MPa can be transferred to the perpendicular magnetic recording medium 1.

2 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining the conventional magnetic pattern transfer method in the case where the finite length of the magnetic pattern is present, 2 7 is for explaining a problem regarding the magnetic pattern transfer method of FIG 6 It is a schematic diagram.

However, in FIG. 26 , a part of the magnetic pattern transfer master and the magnetic recording medium used for the transfer of the magnetic pattern is shown enlarged. On the other hand, in FIG. 2 7 is an enlarged view of a portion of a magnetic recording medium in which the magnetic pattern is transferred. Furthermore, here, a method for transferring a magnetic pattern to the magnetic recording medium 1 for horizontal magnetic recording will be described.

Also in FIG. 26 , as in the case of FIG. 12 described above, first, a magnetic part in which magnetic patterns (LP, SP) having projections and depressions composed of a pattern groove portion G ′ and a pattern projection portion P ′ are formed in advance. The magnetic pattern transfer master 300 having 400 is brought close to the magnetic recording medium 1. Here, the dimension (width) of the pattern groove G ′ and the dimension of the pattern protrusion P ′ (width) are substantially the same. Next, a permanent magnet (not shown) is arranged so as to cover the magnetic portion 400 on the master base 500 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300, and a constant applied magnetic field generated from the permanent magnet is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer. Applied to the master 300.

  In the magnetic part 400 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300, when a sufficiently long magnetic pattern LP and a finite length magnetic pattern SP having a finite length are constituted by the pattern protrusions P ′, a permanent magnet The pattern protrusions P ′ of these magnetic patterns LP and SP are magnetized in the same direction as the applied magnetic field (that is, the direction parallel to the surfaces of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 and the magnetic recording medium 1). A magnetic field is generated in the magnetic pattern. At this time, a leakage magnetic flux is generated in the pattern groove portion G ′ between adjacent magnetic patterns. The magnetic film 1-2 on the medium substrate 1-1 of the magnetic recording medium 1 is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field by the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux, and the pattern groove portion G ′ (or pattern protrusion) of the magnetic pattern The magnetic pattern MP having a dimension substantially corresponding to the portion P ′) is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1.

Finally, as shown in FIG. 2 7, and the magnetic pattern SP of finite length having a sufficiently long magnetic patterns LP and length of finite, the magnetic film 1 of the magnetic recording medium 1 with a gap portion of the pattern groove G ' -2 is transferred, and the transferred long magnetic pattern MPL and the transferred finite-length magnetic pattern MPS are respectively formed on the magnetic film 1-2.

However, as shown in FIG. 26 , in particular, when a plurality of finite-length magnetic patterns MPS are constituted by the pattern protrusions P ′, in these finite-length magnetic patterns MPS, end portions EP of the magnetic patterns are arranged. The magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux generated in is weakened. For this reason, the intensity gradient of the magnetic field (magnetic field) generated at the end portion of the finite-length magnetic pattern MPS becomes gentle. When the intensity gradient of the magnetic field becomes gentle, unevenness of the magnetization of the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 occurs, and the end of each end of the finite-length magnetic pattern MPS transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 is generated. The variation of the part EP becomes large. As a result, the lengths of the finite length magnetic patterns MPS are uneven.

  On the other hand, in the magnetic pattern transfer method of the present invention, when a plurality of finite length magnetic patterns are constituted by pattern groove portions, the magnetic pattern transfer method is formed so that the corners of the end portions of the magnetic patterns are rounded. By using the master to transfer the magnetic pattern to the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium, the width of the pattern groove at the edge of the magnetic pattern becomes relatively narrow. It is avoided that the lengths of the finite-length magnetic patterns become uneven, and a plurality of finite-length magnetic patterns can be transferred to the magnetic recording medium with high definition.

Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings (FIGS. 28 to 3 0), the magnetic pattern transfer method according to an embodiment of the first 2 and the first 3 of the present invention will be described in detail.

Figure 28 is a schematic diagram for explaining the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the first and second embodiments of the present invention (Part 1), the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the first and second embodiments of FIG. 29 is the invention It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating (the 2).

However, in FIG. 28 , a portion of the magnetic pattern transfer master and magnetic recording medium used for transferring the magnetic pattern is shown enlarged. On the other hand, in FIG. 29 , a part of the magnetic recording medium to which the magnetic pattern is transferred is enlarged. Furthermore, here, a method for transferring a magnetic pattern to the magnetic recording medium 1 for horizontal magnetic recording will be described.

In the first and second embodiments of FIGS. 28 and 29, the magnetic pattern of the magnetic portions 4b of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3b, a plurality of finite lengths of the magnetic pattern SPP pattern recess having a finite length (groove) 43 It is comprised by. The pattern corner 45 of the end portion EP in the finite-length magnetic pattern SPP is chamfered, and the magnetic pattern is formed so that the corner of the end portion EP is substantially round. However, in the magnetic portion 4b 'of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3b, sufficiently long magnetic patterns LP, as in the case of FIG. 2 6 above, the pattern projection unit (i.e., pattern protrusion) is constituted by 44 .

When transferring a magnetic pattern in FIG. 28 , first of all, a magnetic having magnetic portions 4b, 4b 'in which magnetic patterns (LP, SPP) having projections and depressions composed of pattern depressions 43 and pattern projections 44 are formed in advance. The pattern transfer master 3b is brought close to the magnetic recording medium 1. Here, the dimension (width) of the pattern concave portion and the dimension (width) of the pattern convex portion are almost the same, but unlike the case of FIG. 26 described above, a plurality of finite-length magnetic patterns SPP are groove-shaped. It should be noted that there is a pattern recess. Next, a permanent magnet (not shown) is disposed so as to cover the magnetic portions 4b and 4b 'of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3b, and a constant applied magnetic field generated from the permanent magnet is applied to the magnetic pattern transfer master 3b. Apply.

  Due to this externally applied magnetic field, a sufficiently long magnetic pattern LP and a plurality of finite length magnetic patterns SPP are in the same direction as the applied magnetic field (that is, parallel to the surfaces of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3b and the magnetic recording medium 1). Magnetic field is generated in the magnetic patterns LP and SPP. At this time, a leakage magnetic flux is generated in the pattern groove G or the pattern recess 43 between the adjacent magnetic patterns. The magnetic film 1-2 on the medium substrate 1-1 of the magnetic recording medium 1 is magnetized in the same direction as the externally applied magnetic field by the magnetic field due to the leakage magnetic flux, and the pattern concave portion 43 (or pattern convex portion) of the magnetic pattern. 44) is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1.

Finally, as shown in FIG. 29 , a sufficiently long magnetic pattern LP and a finite-length magnetic pattern SP having a finite length are formed by the magnetic properties of the magnetic recording medium 1 at the gap portion of the pattern groove portion G or the pattern recess portion 43. The transferred long magnetic pattern MPL and the transferred finite-length magnetic pattern MPS are formed on the magnetic film 1-2.

In the first and second embodiments of FIGS. 28 and 29 , as described above, a plurality of finite-length magnetic patterns SPP are constituted by the pattern recesses 43, and the corners of the end portions EP of the magnetic patterns are substantially round. The magnetic pattern is formed so as to be. Further, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3b on which the magnetic pattern is formed is used to transfer the magnetic pattern to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1.

Therefore, in the first and second embodiments, when the magnetic pattern transfer master 3b is produced by resist exposure and magnetic layer etching, the end portions (end portions EP) of a plurality of finite-length magnetic patterns SPP are produced. ), The width W of the pattern width portion 46 of the pattern concave portion 43 becomes relatively narrow, and the intensity gradient of the magnetic field generated at the end of the magnetic pattern becomes steeper than before. For this reason, a boundary line indicating whether the magnetic pattern is transferred or not magnetized at the end of the magnetic pattern transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 of the magnetic recording medium 1 becomes clear. As a result, the lengths of the finite-length magnetic patterns SPP in the magnetic film 1-2 after transfer are aligned, and a plurality of finite-length magnetic patterns SPP can be transferred to the magnetic recording medium 1 with high definition. it can.

  More specifically, when the magnetic pattern transfer master 3b used for the magnetic pattern transfer method having a finite length is produced, in the first step, a non-magnetic master base material 1-1 such as a silicon substrate is used. A magnetic layer including the magnetic portion 4b is formed on the top by a vacuum deposition method. When a positive resist is applied on the magnetic layer and exposed, a positive pattern is formed on the magnetic layer of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3b. In the second step, the magnetic layer is etched so that the portions of the plurality of finite-length magnetic patterns SPP become the pattern recesses 43 in a state where a positive pattern of a positive resist is formed on the magnetic layer. . The magnetic pattern of the magnetic layer including the plurality of finite-length magnetic patterns SPP formed in this way has the same shape as a positive pattern made of a positive resist.

  Here, the width W of the pattern recess 43 at the end of the finite-length magnetic pattern SPP is narrower than the width of the central portion of the pattern recess 43. Therefore, the gradient of the intensity of the magnetic field generated at the end of the magnetic pattern becomes steeper than before, so that the length of each finite-length magnetic pattern SPP in the magnetic film 1-2 after transfer is aligned. A plurality of finite-length magnetic patterns SPP can be easily transferred to the magnetic recording medium 1 with high definition.

3 0 is a schematic diagram for explaining the magnetic pattern transfer method according to an embodiment of the first 3 of the present invention. However, here, a part of the master for magnetic pattern transfer used for the transfer of the magnetic pattern is shown enlarged. Furthermore, here, a method for transferring a magnetic pattern to the magnetic recording medium 1 for horizontal magnetic recording will be described.

3 0 is a magnetic pattern transfer master 300 used in the conventional magnetic pattern transfer method, the first 3 magnetic pattern transfer master 3c used for magnetic pattern transfer method according to an embodiment of the present invention for comparison to so easily and the first 3 magnetic pattern transfer master 3c associated with the embodiment of the present invention the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 associated with the prior art, respectively Figure 3 0 half the upper (Fig. 3 0 (a)) and the lower half portion shown in (FIG. 3 0 (b)).

Magnetic pattern transfer master 300 associated with such prior art as shown in FIG. 3 0 (a) is made in the same configuration as the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 in FIG. 2 6 above. Therefore, the re-explanation regarding the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 related to the prior art is omitted here.

Figure 3 in the first 3 magnetic pattern transfer master 3c associated with the embodiment of 0 (b) to indicate to the present invention, part pattern depression (groove magnetic pattern SPP having a length of a plurality of finite ) 43, and a sufficiently long magnetic pattern (long positive pattern) PPL portion other than the magnetic pattern SPP portion is also formed by the pattern recess 47.

In other words, the portion of the pattern groove portion of the long magnetic pattern LP of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 related to the prior art becomes the pattern convex portion 44 of the magnetic pattern transfer mask 3c according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Correspondingly, the pattern protrusion portion of the long magnetic pattern LP of the magnetic pattern transfer master 300 related to the prior art is formed in the pattern concave portion 47 of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3c according to the third embodiment. It corresponds.

Further, the magnetic pattern transfer master 3c associated with the first and third embodiments of the present invention as shown in FIG. 3 (b) 0, the pattern block including a portion of all the magnetic pattern (LP, SPP) The portions other than the pattern block are recessed so as to form a protrusion as a whole. More specifically, the side wall portion 49 of the stepped portion at both ends of the pattern block has a gentle slope.

3 0 (b) As is apparent from, in the embodiment of the first 3 of the area the pattern recesses of the pattern convex portions in the magnetic pattern of the magnetic pattern transfer master 3c (44,48) (43 , 47). Therefore, in the first to third embodiments, when the magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film 1-2 on the medium substrate 1-1 of the magnetic recording medium 1, the surface contacts the magnetic film 1-2. The area of the surface of the pattern convex portion to be increased is relatively large, and the degree of adhesion between the magnetic recording medium 1 and the magnetic pattern transfer master 3c is improved.

It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the magnetic pattern transcribe | transferred on a magnetic recording medium. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conventional typical magnetic pattern transfer method. It is a front view showing a schematic structure of a general magnetic recording medium. It is a flowchart which shows the manufacturing process of a normal magnetic recording medium. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the magnetic pattern transfer method which concerns on 1st Example of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the magnetic pattern transfer method which concerns on the 2nd Example of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the magnetic pattern transfer method which concerns on the 3rd Example of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the magnetic pattern transfer method which concerns on the 4th Example of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the magnetic pattern transfer method which concerns on the 5th Example of this invention. It is a top view which shows an example of the master for magnetic pattern transfer used for the conventional magnetic pattern transfer method. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the magnetic pattern transfer method which concerns on the 6th Example of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the magnetic pattern transferred by the conventional magnetic pattern transfer method. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the magnetic pattern transfer method which concerns on the 7th Example of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the 1st specific example (the 1) of the magnetic pattern transfer method based on the Example of FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the 1st specific example (the 2) of the magnetic pattern transfer method based on the Example of FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the 2nd specific example (the 1) of the magnetic pattern transfer method based on the Example of FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the 2nd specific example (the 2) of the magnetic pattern transfer method based on the Example of FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the 2nd specific example (the 3) of the magnetic pattern transfer method based on the Example of FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the 3rd specific example (the 1) of the magnetic pattern transfer method based on the Example of FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the 3rd specific example (the 2) of the magnetic pattern transfer method based on the Example of FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the magnetic pattern transfer method which concerns on the 8th Example of this invention. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the magnetic pattern transfer method which concerns on the 9th Example of this invention. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the magnetic pattern transfer method (the 1) based on the 10th Example of this invention. Magnetic pattern transfer method according to a first 0 embodiment of the present invention is a schematic diagram for explaining a (second). It is a schematic diagram for explaining the magnetic pattern transfer method according to a first 1 of the embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the conventional magnetic pattern transfer method in case a finite-length magnetic pattern exists . It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the problem regarding the magnetic pattern transfer method of FIG. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the magnetic pattern transfer method (the 1) based on the 12th Example of this invention . It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the magnetic pattern transfer method (the 2) based on the 12th Example of this invention . It is a schematic diagram for explaining the magnetic pattern transfer method according to the first and third embodiments of the present invention.

Claims (1)

A magnetic pattern transfer master having a magnetic portion on which a predetermined magnetic pattern is formed in advance is brought close to a magnetic recording medium having a magnetic film for recording magnetic information, and the magnetic pattern is applied by applying a magnetic field from the outside. In the magnetic pattern transfer method for transferring to the magnetic recording medium,
Using the magnetic pattern transfer master, the width of the pattern groove portion of the magnetic pattern in the circumferential direction of the magnetic recording medium is narrower than the width of the pattern protrusion of the magnetic pattern in the circumferential direction of the magnetic recording medium. The magnetic pattern is transferred to the magnetic film of the magnetic recording medium a plurality of times while shifting the relative position of the pattern transfer master,
At this time, an auxiliary master having a groove portion covering the pattern block constituting the magnetic pattern is placed on the magnetic pattern transfer master so that the auxiliary pattern is transferred. A magnetic pattern transfer method, wherein the magnetic field is concentrated and applied to a portion of the pattern block through a groove portion of a master.

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