WO2008062677A1

WO2008062677A1 - Recording head and information recording/reproducing device

Info

Publication number: WO2008062677A1
Application number: PCT/JP2007/071746
Authority: WO
Inventors: Masakazu Hirata; Manabu Oumi; Majung Park
Original assignee: Seiko Instruments Inc.
Priority date: 2006-11-20
Filing date: 2007-11-09
Publication date: 2008-05-29

Abstract

A recording head (2) is provided with a slider (20); a recording element (21), which is fixed on a side surface on the flow out end side of the slider, and has a main magnetic pole (32) and an auxiliary magnetic pole (30) for generating a recording magnetic field; and a spot light generating element (22). The spot light generating element is provided with a core (40) having a reflection surface (40a) for reflecting a luminous flux (L), which is introduced from one end side, to the other end side in a direction different from the introducing direction, and a luminous flux collecting section (40b) for generating spot light (R) by propagating the reflected luminous flux toward the other end side while collecting the reflected luminous flux; and a clad (41) for confining the core inside. The spot light generating element is fixed adjacent to the recording element with the other end side facing to the magnetic recoding medium. The recording head is also provided with a luminous flux introducing means (4), which is arranged in parallel to the slider and introduces the luminous flux into the core from the one end side. The luminous flux collecting section generates spot light in the vicinity of the main magnetic pole.

Description

Specification

Recording head and information recording / reproducing apparatus

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a recording head for recording various information on a magnetic recording medium using spot light obtained by condensing light, and an information recording / reproducing apparatus having the recording head. Background art

In recent years, the recording density of information within a single recording surface has increased with an increase in the capacity of hard disks and the like in computer equipment. For example, in order to increase the recording capacity per unit area of the magnetic disk, it is necessary to increase the surface recording density. However, as the force recording density increases, the recording area occupied by one bit on the recording medium decreases. When this bit size is reduced, the energy power of 1-bit information is close to the thermal energy at room temperature, and the recorded demagnetization problem may be reversed or lost due to thermal fluctuations. It will occur.

In a generally used in-plane recording method, force is a method for recording magnetism so that the direction of magnetization is in the in-plane direction of the recording medium. In this method, the recording information by thermal demagnetization described above is recorded. Disappearance is likely to occur. Therefore, in order to solve such a problem, a shift is being made to a perpendicular recording method in which a magnetization signal is recorded in a direction perpendicular to the recording medium. This method is a method for recording magnetic information on the principle of bringing a single magnetic pole closer to a recording medium. According to this method, the recording magnetic field is directed substantially perpendicular to the recording film. Information recorded in a perpendicular magnetic field is easy to maintain in energy stability because it is difficult for the N and S poles to form a loop in the recording film plane. Therefore, this perpendicular recording method is more resistant to thermal demagnetization than the in-plane recording method!

[0004] However, recent recording media are required to have higher density in response to the need to record and reproduce a larger amount of high-density information. For this reason, in order to minimize the influence of adjacent magnetic domains and thermal fluctuations, those with strong coercive force have begun to be adopted as recording media. Therefore, it has been difficult to record information on a recording medium even with the above-described perpendicular recording method. [0005] Therefore, in order to solve this problem, the magnetic domain is locally heated by using spot light or near-field light that collects the light to temporarily reduce the coercive force, and writing in the meantime. A hybrid magnetic recording method is available. In particular, when using near-field light, it is possible to handle optical information in a region below the wavelength of light, which is a limit in conventional optical systems. Therefore, it is possible to increase the recording bit density exceeding that of the conventional optical information recording / reproducing apparatus.

[0006] Various types of recording heads are provided as the above-described hybrid magnetic recording system, and one of them is a near-field optical head that performs heating using near-field light. (For example, refer to JP 2004-158067 and JP 2005-4901).

[0007] This near-field optical head generates near-field light mainly from a main magnetic pole, an auxiliary magnetic pole, a coil winding in which a spiral conductor pattern is formed inside an insulator, and irradiated laser light. A metal scatterer to be irradiated, a planar laser light source for irradiating the metal scatterer with laser light, and a lens for focusing the irradiated laser light. Each of these components is attached to the side surface of a slider fixed to the front end of the beam.

[0008] The main magnetic pole has a surface opposite to the recording medium at one end and is connected to the auxiliary magnetic pole at the other end. In other words, the main magnetic pole and the auxiliary magnetic pole constitute a single magnetic pole type vertical head in which one magnetic pole (single magnetic pole) is arranged in the vertical direction. The coil winding is fixed to the auxiliary magnetic pole so that part of the coil winding passes between the magnetic pole and the auxiliary magnetic pole. These magnetic poles, auxiliary magnetic poles, and coil windings constitute an electromagnet as a whole!

[0009] The metal scatterer made of gold or the like is attached to the tip of the main pole! The planar laser light source is disposed at a position separated from the metal scatterer, and the lens is disposed between the planar laser light source and the metal scatterer.

[0010] Each component described above is attached in the order of an auxiliary magnetic pole, a coil winding, a main magnetic pole, a metal scatterer, a lens, and a planar laser light source from the side surface side of the slider.

[0011] When the near-field light head configured as described above is used, various information can be recorded on the recording medium by generating a near-field light and simultaneously applying a recording magnetic field! .

That is, laser light is irradiated from a planar laser light source. This laser light is collected by a lens and irradiated onto a metal scatterer. Then, the metal scatterer has free electrons inside. Because it is oscillated uniformly by the electric field of the light, plasmons are excited to generate near-field light at the tip. As a result, the magnetic recording layer of the recording medium is locally heated by near-field light, and the coercive force temporarily decreases.

In addition, simultaneously with the laser light irradiation, a recording current is locally applied to the magnetic recording layer of the recording medium near the main pole by supplying a driving current to the conductor pattern of the coil winding. To do. As a result, it is possible to record various information on the magnetic recording layer whose coercive force is temporarily reduced. In other words, with the cooperation of near-field light and magnetic field, the recording force on the recording medium is controlled by the force S.

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004_158067

Patent Document 2: JP 2005-4901

Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

However, the above-described conventional near-field optical head still has the following problems.

That is, when generating near-field light that is indispensable for recording information, the laser light is irradiated from the planar laser light source to the metal scatterer through the lens while being condensed. However, because a metal scatterer is attached to the tip of the force main pole! /, It was inevitable to irradiate the optical axis of the laser beam obliquely from a flat laser light source. Therefore, even if the lens position is adjusted well, it is difficult to efficiently focus the laser beam on the metal scatterer. In particular, since it is necessary to place the lens in consideration of interference with the recording medium, the force S using a semicircular lens is also a factor that causes a reduction in light collection efficiency.

As a result, near-field light cannot be generated efficiently and information cannot be written.

[0017] Further, since it is necessary to dispose the lens at a position separated from the metal scatterer, the size of the head is increased, and the compact configuration cannot be achieved. In addition, since it is necessary to arrange the planar laser light source while taking into account the lens position and the position of the metal scatterer, it has not been possible to install it easily.

Means for solving the problem [0018] The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and its purpose is to efficiently concentrate the luminous flux to improve the writing reliability, and to reduce the size and power. It is an object to provide a recording head that can be reduced in thickness and an information recording / reproducing apparatus having the recording head.

The present invention provides the following means in order to solve the above problems.

The recording head according to the present invention heats a magnetic recording medium rotating in a certain direction by spot light generated by condensing a light beam, and applies a perpendicular recording magnetic field to the magnetic recording medium. A recording head that causes magnetization reversal and records information, a slider disposed opposite to the surface of the magnetic recording medium, a main magnetic pole that is fixed to the front end surface of the slider and generates the recording magnetic field, and A recording element having an auxiliary magnetic pole; a reflecting surface for reflecting the light beam introduced from one end side to the other end side in a direction different from the introduction direction; a direction force from the one end side to the other end side; The cross-sectional area to be gradually drawn is reduced, and the reflected light flux is condensed and propagated toward the other end side to generate the spot light, and the spot light is externally transmitted from the other end side. Towards A clad that is made of a material having a light condensing part and a material having a refractive index lower than that of the core, and that tightly adheres to the side surface of the core with the other end of the core exposed to the outside, thereby confining the core inside. A spot light generating element fixed adjacent to the recording element with the other end side facing the magnetic recording medium side, and the slider in a state of being arranged in parallel to the slider And a light beam introducing means for introducing the light beam into the core from the one end side, and the light beam condensing unit generates the spot light in the vicinity of the main magnetic pole. Is.

In the recording head according to the present invention, a magnetic recording medium that rotates by a hybrid magnetic recording method in which the spot light generated by the spot light generating element cooperates with the recording magnetic field generated by the recording element. Information can be recorded.

[0022] First, the slider is arranged in a state of facing the surface of the magnetic recording medium. A recording element having a main magnetic pole and an auxiliary magnetic pole is fixed to the end face of the slider. Further, a spot light generating element is fixed adjacent to the recording element. In other words, a recording element and a spot light generating element are arranged in this order from the slider side on the tip of the slider. The The spot light generating element is fixed in a state where the other end side where the spot light is generated faces the magnetic recording medium side. Therefore, one end side where the light beam is introduced is arranged at a position separated from the magnetic recording medium. A light beam introducing means fixed to the slider is connected to the one end side.

When recording is performed here, the light beam is introduced from the light beam introducing means into the core of the spot light generating element. At this time, the light flux is introduced in a direction parallel to the slider. Then, the introduced light beam is reflected by the reflecting surface and changes its direction in a direction different from the introduction direction. That is, after the direction is bent by approximately 90 degrees by the reflecting surface, the direction is toward the other end located on the magnetic recording medium side. The light beam propagates through the light beam condensing unit toward the other end side.

[0024] At this time, the light beam condensing part is drawn so that the direction force from one end side to the other end side and the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal direction gradually decrease. Therefore, when the light beam passes through the light beam condensing portion, it is gradually condensed while repeating reflection on the side surface and propagates inside the core. In particular, since the clad is in close contact with the side surface of the core, light does not leak outside the core. Therefore, the introduced light beam can be propagated to the other end side while being stopped without wasting it.

[0025] Therefore, when the light beam reaches the other end side of the light beam condensing part, the light beam is narrowed down and the spot size is reduced. In other words, the light beam condensing unit can narrow the spot size of the introduced light beam to a small size. As a result, spot light can be generated and emitted from the other end side.

Then, the magnetic recording medium is locally heated by the spot light, and the coercive force temporarily decreases. In particular, since the light beam condensing unit generates spot light in the vicinity of the main magnetic pole, the coercive force of the magnetic recording medium can be reduced as close as possible to the main magnetic pole.

On the other hand, simultaneously with the introduction of the light beam described above, the recording element is operated to generate a recording magnetic field between the main magnetic pole and the auxiliary magnetic pole. As a result, a recording magnetic field can be generated at a pinpoint with respect to a local position of the magnetic recording medium whose coercive force has been reduced by the spot light. Note that the direction of the recording magnetic field changes according to the information to be recorded. When the magnetic recording medium receives a recording magnetic field, the magnetization direction changes in the vertical direction in accordance with the direction of the recording magnetic field. As a result, information can be recorded. [0028] That is, it is possible to record information by the hybrid magnetic recording method in which the spot light and the recording magnetic field cooperate. Further, since it is a perpendicular magnetic recording system, it is difficult to receive the phenomenon of thermal fluctuation, and stable recording with high writing reliability can be performed.

[0029] In particular, since the light beam is reflected by the reflecting surface, the spot light can be generated while being condensed along the substantially straight optical axis from the upper surface side of the slider toward the other end side toward the magnetic recording medium. Thus, there is no need for a lens in which the optical axis is not inclined and the position adjustment is difficult. Accordingly, it is possible to efficiently collect the luminous flux to generate the spot light, and to heat the magnetic recording medium efficiently. Therefore, the writing reliability can be improved.

[0030] Moreover, since the coercive force of the magnetic recording medium can be reduced in the vicinity of the main magnetic pole, the peak position of the heating temperature can be set at a position where the recording magnetic field acts locally. Therefore, recording can be performed more reliably and high density recording can be achieved.

[0031] In addition, since the light flux is introduced using the light flux introducing means and propagates in the core, the light flux is not propagated in the air as in the prior art. Therefore, the light guide loss can be reduced as much as possible. In addition, since the spot light generating element can be configured by the core and the clad, the configuration can be facilitated. Furthermore, since the recording element and the spot light generating element are arranged in this order on the side surface on the outflow end side of the slider, it is possible to prevent as much as possible that each component other than the light flux introducing means overlaps in the thickness direction of the slider. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the thickness with a compact design. In addition, since the light beam can be reliably introduced through the light beam introducing means, the light source that generates the light beam can be easily arranged.

As described above, according to the recording head according to the present invention, spot light can be generated by efficiently condensing the luminous flux, and the writing reliability can be improved. In addition, it can be made compact and thin.

[0033] Further, the recording head according to the present invention is formed with the cladding force S and one end side of the core exposed to the outside with respect to the recording head of the present invention. It is a feature.

In the recording head according to the present invention, the cladding exposes one end side of the core to the outside. Therefore, the light beam can be directly introduced into the core without using the clad. As a result, the spot light can be generated more efficiently, and the magnetic recording medium can be heated with more power.

[0035] Further, the recording head according to the present invention is the same as the recording head according to the present invention, and the near-field light is generated from the spot light to the luminous flux collecting section. A near-field light generating element emitting from the other end side to the outside is provided.

In the recording head according to the present invention, since the near-field light generating element is provided in the light beam condensing part, the light beam is condensed into spot light, and then the spot size is further reduced to approach the light beam. Can be used as field light. Accordingly, it is possible to heat the magnetic recording medium in a further minute area, and to achieve a higher density recording capacity.

[0037] In addition, a recording head according to the present invention includes a reproducing element that outputs an electric signal corresponding to the magnitude of a magnetic field leaked from the magnetic recording medium in any of the recording heads of the present invention. Special attention is given to recording.

In the recording head according to the present invention, the reproducing element outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the magnitude of the magnetic field leaked from the magnetic recording medium. Therefore, the information recorded on the magnetic recording medium can be reproduced from the electric signal output from the reproducing element.

[0039] Further, a recording head according to the present invention is characterized in that the reproducing element force is provided between the slider and the recording element in the recording head of the present invention. Stuff

[0040] In the recording head according to the present invention, since the reproducing element is provided between the slider and the recording element, the reproducing element, the recording element, and the spot light generating element are arranged in this order from the leading end side of the slider. It becomes a state. For this reason, even if the slider disposed opposite to the surface of the magnetic recording medium is inclined with the front end faced toward the magnetic recording medium, the recording element and the spot light generating element are brought as close to the magnetic recording medium as possible. Can do. Therefore, the spot light and the recording magnetic field can be applied to the magnetic recording medium more efficiently, and higher density recording can be performed.

[0041] In addition, a recording head according to the present invention is characterized in that the recording head according to the present invention is provided in a state embedded in the reproducing element force and the clad. is there [0042] In the recording head according to the present invention, since the reproducing element is embedded in the clad in which the core is confined, the thickness of the reproducing element can be absorbed by the clad. Therefore, even if the slider arranged opposite to the surface of the magnetic recording medium is inclined with the leading end faced toward the magnetic recording medium, the recording element and the spot light generating element are as close to the magnetic recording medium as possible. be able to. Therefore, the spot light and the recording magnetic field can be more efficiently applied to the magnetic recording medium, and higher density recording can be performed.

[0043] In addition, the information recording / reproducing apparatus according to the present invention is capable of moving in the direction parallel to the surface of the magnetic recording medium, the recording head of! / A beam that supports the recording head on the leading end side in a state of being rotatable around two axes that are parallel to the surface and orthogonal to each other; a light source that causes the light beam to enter the light beam introducing means; and the beam An actuator that supports the base end side of the magnetic recording medium and moves the beam in a direction parallel to the surface of the magnetic recording medium, a rotation drive unit that rotates the magnetic recording medium in the fixed direction, and the recording element And a control unit for controlling the operation of the light source.

In the information recording / reproducing apparatus according to the present invention, after rotating the magnetic recording medium in a fixed direction by the rotation drive unit, the recording head is scanned by moving the beam by the actuator. Then, the recording head is disposed at a desired position on the magnetic recording medium. At this time, the recording head is supported by the beam so as to be rotatable about two axes parallel to the surface of the magnetic recording medium and orthogonal to each other, that is, twistable about the two axes. . Therefore, even if waviness occurs in the magnetic recording medium, changes in wind pressure due to waviness or waviness directly transmitted can be absorbed by twisting, and the posture of the recording head can be stabilized.

Thereafter, the control unit operates the recording element and the light source. Accordingly, the recording head can record information on the magnetic recording medium by causing the spot light and the recording magnetic field to cooperate with each other. In particular, since the recording head described above is provided, it is possible to cope with high-density recording with high writing reliability, and high quality can be achieved. At the same time, compact and thin Use the force S to create a mold.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a first embodiment of an information recording / reproducing apparatus having a recording head according to the present invention.

2] An enlarged sectional view of the recording head shown in FIG.

3] FIG. 3 is a view of the recording head shown in FIG. 2 as viewed from the disk surface side.

4] is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the side surface on the outflow end side of the recording head shown in FIG. 2, showing the configuration of the spot light generating element and the recording element, and performing recording! / It is the figure which showed the relationship between and.

FIG. 5 is a view of the core of the spot light generating element shown in FIG. 4 as viewed from the direction of arrow A.

6] FIG. 6 is a view of the spot light generating element shown in FIG. 4 as viewed from the end face side.

7] A diagram showing a recording head according to a second embodiment of the present invention, showing a configuration of a spot light generating element and a recording element provided with a near-field light generating element for generating near-field light, and It is the figure which showed the relationship between the near field light at the time of recording, and a magnetic field.

FIG. 8 is a view of the core of the spot light generating element shown in FIG. 7 as viewed from the direction of arrow B.

9] FIG. 9 is a view of the core shown in FIG. 8 as viewed from the end surface side, and shows the configuration of the near-field light generating element.

10 is a view showing a modification of the near-field light generating element shown in FIG. 9, and is a view showing a near-field light generating element having a minute aperture formed in a triangular shape.

11] A diagram showing a modification of the near-field light generating element shown in FIG. 9, wherein a near-field light generating element having a minute opening formed so that triangular protrusions are opposed to each other with a minute gap therebetween. FIG.

12] FIG. 10 is a view showing a modification of the near-field light generating element shown in FIG. 9 and showing a near-field light generating element having a minute aperture in which a metal scatterer is formed substantially at the center.

13] A cross-sectional view showing a third embodiment of a recording head according to the present invention.

14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a state where the recording head shown in FIG. 13 is flying over the disk in a tilted state.

15] A sectional view showing a recording head according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a fifth embodiment of a recording head according to the invention.

FIG. 17 is a sectional view showing a sixth embodiment of a recording head according to the invention.

FIG. 18 is a view of the core of the spot light generating element shown in FIG. 17 as viewed from the direction of arrow A.

FIG. 19 is a sectional view showing a seventh embodiment of the recording head according to the invention.

20 is a view of the core of the spot light generating element shown in FIG. 19 as viewed from the direction of arrow A.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a modification of the recording head shown in FIG. 19, and is a diagram showing a recording head in which a reproducing element is provided between the slider and the recording element.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a modification of the recording head shown in FIG. 19, and is a diagram showing a recording head having a spot size converter whose core is smoothly curved.

FIG. 23 is a sectional view showing an eighth embodiment of a recording head according to the present invention.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0047] (First embodiment)

Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a recording head and an information recording / reproducing apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Note that the information recording / reproducing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment is an apparatus for writing on a disk (magnetic recording medium) D having a perpendicular recording layer d 2 by a perpendicular recording method. Further, in the present embodiment, an explanation will be given by taking as an example an air levitation type in which the recording head 2 is floated by utilizing the air flow that the disk D rotates.

As shown in FIG. 1, the information recording / reproducing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment includes a recording head 2 having a spot size converter (spot light generation element) 22 described later, and a disk surface (surface of a magnetic recording medium). ) It is movable in the XY direction parallel to D1, and supports the recording head 2 on the tip side while being rotatable around two axes (X axis, Y axis) parallel to the disk surface D1 and perpendicular to each other. Supports the beam 3, the optical signal controller (light source) 5 that makes the light beam L incident on the optical waveguide 4 from the base end side of the optical waveguide (light flux introducing means) 4, and the base end side of the beam 3 In addition, an actuator 6 that scans and moves the beam 3 in the XY directions parallel to the disk surface D1, a spindle motor (rotation drive unit) 7 that rotates the disk D in a fixed direction, a recording element 21 and Control that controls the operation of the optical signal controller 5 8, and a housing 9 that houses the respective components therein.

[0049] The housing 9 is formed of a metal material such as aluminum in a square shape in a top view. In addition, a recess 9a for accommodating each component is formed inside. Further, a lid (not shown) is detachably fixed to the housing 9 so as to close the opening of the recess 9a.

[0050] The spindle motor 7 is attached to the approximate center of the recess 9a, and the disc D is detachably fixed by fitting the center hole into the spindle motor 7. The above-mentioned actuator 6 is attached to the corner of the recess 9a. A carriage 11 is attached to the actuator 6 via a bearing 10, and a beam 3 is attached to the tip of the carriage 11. The carriage 11 and the beam 3 are both movable in the XY directions by driving the actuator 6.

Note that the carriage 11 and the beam 3 are retracted from the disk D by driving the actuator 6 when the rotation of the disk D is stopped. The recording head 2 and the beam 3 constitute a suspension 12. The optical signal controller 5 is mounted in the recess 9a so as to be adjacent to the activator 6. Then, the control unit 8 is attached adjacent to the actuator 6! /.

[0052] The recording head 2 heats the rotating disk D by the spot light R generated by condensing the light flux L, and generates a magnetization reversal by applying a perpendicular recording magnetic field to the disk D. Information is recorded.

[0053] As shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the recording head 2 is disposed to face the disk D in a state of floating by a predetermined distance H from the disk surface D1, and has a facing surface 20 that faces the disk surface D1. A slider 20, a recording element 21 fixed to the tip surface of the slider 20 (hereinafter referred to as a side surface on the outflow end side), a spot size converter 22 fixed adjacent to the recording element 21, An optical waveguide 4 for introducing the light beam L from the optical signal controller 5 is provided in a core 40 (to be described later) of the spot size converter 22. Further, the recording head 2 of the present embodiment includes a reproducing element 23 fixed adjacent to the spot size converter 22.

[0054] The slider 20 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape using a light-transmitting material such as quartz glass or a ceramic such as AlTiC (altic). The slider 20 is supported so as to hang from the tip of the beam 3 via the gimbal portion 24 with the opposing surface 20a facing the disk D. The gimbal portion 24 moves so as to be displaced only around the X axis and around the Y axis. It is a regulated part. As a result, the slider 20 can be rotated around two axes (X axis, Y axis) that are parallel to the disk surface D1 and orthogonal to each other as described above.

[0055] On the facing surface 20a of the slider 20, there is formed a ridge portion 20b that generates pressure for rising due to the viscosity of the airflow generated by the rotating disk D. In the present embodiment, an example is given in which two ridges 20b extending in the longitudinal direction are formed so as to be arranged in a rail shape. However, the slider 20 is not limited to this case. The slider 20 is adjusted to an optimum state by adjusting the positive pressure for separating the slider 20 from the disk surface D1 and the negative pressure for attracting the slider 20 to the disk surface D1. Any irregular shape may be used as long as it is designed to float on the surface. The surface of this ridge portion 20b is a surface called ABS (Air Bearing Surface).

[0056] The slider 20 receives a force that rises from the disk surface D1 by the two ridges 20b. In addition, the beam 3 is steeped in the Z direction perpendicular to the disk surface D1, and absorbs the floating force of the slider 20. That is, the slider 20 receives a force pressed by the beam 3 to the disk surface D1 side when it floats. Therefore, the slider 20 floats in a state of being separated from the disk surface D1 by a predetermined distance H as described above due to the balance between the forces of the two. However, since the slider 20 is rotated about the X axis and the Y axis by the gimbal portion 24, the slider 20 always floats in a stable posture.

[0057] The air flow generated by the rotation of the disk D flows from the inflow end side of the slider 20 (base end side of the beam 3), then flows along the ABS, and flows out along the outflow end side of the slider 20 (beam From the front edge side).

As shown in FIG. 4, the recording element 21 is connected to the auxiliary magnetic pole 30 fixed to the side surface on the outflow end side of the slider 20 and the auxiliary magnetic pole 30 via the magnetic circuit 31, and is connected to the disk D. A main magnetic pole 32 that generates a perpendicular recording magnetic field with the auxiliary magnetic pole 30, and a coil 33 that spirally winds around the magnetic circuit 31 around the magnetic circuit 31. That is, the auxiliary magnetic pole 30, the magnetic circuit 31, the coil 33, and the main magnetic pole 32 are arranged in order from the outflow end side of the slider 20.

[0059] Both magnetic poles 30, 32 and the magnetic circuit 31 are made of a high saturation magnetic flux density (Bs) material having a high magnetic flux density ( For example, it is formed of a CoNiFe alloy, a CoFe alloy, or the like. In addition, the coil 33 is arranged so that there is a gap between adjacent coil wires, between the magnetic circuit 31 and between the magnetic poles 30 and 32 so as not to be short-circuited. Molded by 34. The coil 33 is supplied with a current modulated in accordance with information from the control unit 8. That is, the magnetic circuit 31 and the coil 33 constitute an electromagnet as a whole. The main magnetic pole 32 and the auxiliary magnetic pole 30 are designed so that the end surfaces facing the disk D are flush with the ABS of the slider 20.

As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the spot size converter 22 is adjacent to the recording element 21 with one end side facing the upper side of the slider 20 and the other end side facing the disk D side. Is fixed. More specifically, it is fixed adjacent to the main pole 32. FIG. 5 is a view of a core 40 described later as seen from the direction of arrow A shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a view of the spot size converter 22 shown in FIG. 5 as viewed from the end face 40c side.

[0061] The spot size converter 22 propagates the light beam L introduced to one end side while condensing to the other end side in a direction different from the introduction direction, and generates the spot light R and then emits it to the outside. An element, which is composed of a polyhedral core 40 and a clad 41 for confining the core 40 therein, is formed in a substantially plate shape as a whole.

[0062] The core 40 is integrally formed by the reflecting surface 40a and the light beam condensing part 40b. The reflection surface 40a reflects the light beam L introduced from the one end side by the optical waveguide 4 in a direction different from the introduction direction. In the present embodiment, the light beam L is reflected so that the direction of the light beam L changes by approximately 90 degrees.

[0063] The light beam condensing unit 40b is a portion formed by drawing so that a cross-sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z direction) from one end side to the other end side is gradually reduced, and is reflected by the reflecting surface 40a. The reflected light beam L is condensed and propagated toward the other end. In other words, the light beam condensing unit 4 Ob can reduce the spot size of the introduced light beam L to a small size.

[0064] In the present embodiment, the light flux condensing part 40b is formed to have three side surfaces, and one of the side surfaces is arranged to face the main magnetic pole 32. Yes. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6, the light beam condensing part 40b has an end face 40c exposed to the outside on the other end side. The surface is formed in a triangular shape. The maximum linear length L1 that can be secured on the end face 40c is designed to be about 1 m. As a result, the spot size of the light beam L can be reduced to the same size as the maximum linear length L1, that is, the diameter can be reduced to about 1 m, and the spot light R of this size can be emitted from the end face 40c to the outside. Can do. The end face 4 Oc is designed to be flush with the ABS of the slider 20.

In the present embodiment, the light beam condensing part 40b is gradually drawn toward the main magnetic pole 32 as shown in FIG. As a result, the end face 40c is positioned on the main magnetic pole 32 side, and the spot light R having the above size can be generated in the vicinity of the main magnetic pole 32. The term “near” in the present invention refers to a region within a range separated from the main magnetic pole 32 by a distance approximately equal to or less than the diameter of the spot light generated from the end face 40c. Therefore, in the case of the present embodiment, the distance force between the main magnetic pole 32 and the end face 40c of the light beam condensing part 40b is approximately the same as the diameter (maximum linear length L1) of the spot light R 1 111 or less. Designed to be a distance.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the clad 41 is formed of a material having a refractive index lower than that of the core 40. The clad 41 is in close contact with the side surface of the core 40 to confine the core 40 inside. Yes. Therefore, there is no gap between the core 40 and the clad 41. Further, the clad 41 of the present embodiment is formed so as to expose the end surface 40c on the other end side to the outside as well as the one end side of the core 40.

[0067] An example of a combination of materials used as the clad 41 and the core 40 is described. For example, a combination in which the core 40 is formed from quartz (SiO 2) and the clad 41 is formed from quartz doped with fluorine. Can be considered. In this case, when the wavelength of the light beam L is 400 nm, the refractive index of the core 40 is 1.47, and the refractive index of the clad 41 is less than 1.47, which is a preferable combination. A combination in which the core 40 is formed of quartz doped with germanium and the cladding 41 is formed of quartz (SiO 2) is also conceivable. In this case, when the wavelength of the light beam L is 4 OOnm, it becomes larger than the refractive skew force 1.47 of the core 40 and becomes the refractive skew force 47 of the clad 41.

[0068] In particular, the greater the difference in refractive index between the core 40 and the clad 41, the greater the force for confining the light flux L in the core 40. Therefore, when the core 40 has tantalum oxide (TaO: when the wavelength is 550 nm) Succumb to It is more preferable to use a refractive index of 2.16) and use quartz or the like for the cladding 41 to increase the refractive index difference between the two. In addition, when the luminous flux L in the infrared region is used, it is also effective to form the core 40 with silicon (Si: refractive index is about 4) which is a material transparent to infrared light.

[0069] The optical waveguide 4 is a biaxial waveguide composed of a core 4a and a clad 4b, and the light beam L propagates through the core 4a. The optical waveguide 4 is fixed in a state of fitting in a groove portion 41 a formed in the clad 41 and a groove portion (not shown) formed in the upper surface of the slider 20. As a result, the optical waveguide 4 is arranged in parallel to the slider 20.

Further, the tip end of the optical waveguide 4 is connected to one end side of the spot size converter 22, and the light flux L is introduced into the core 40. Further, the base end side of the optical waveguide 4 is drawn out to the optical signal controller 5 through the beam 3 and the carriage 11 and then connected to the optical signal controller 5.

As shown in FIG. 5, the positions of the spot size converter 22 and the optical waveguide 4 are arranged so that the light beam L introduced from the optical waveguide 4 into the core 40 enters the approximate center of the reflecting surface 40a. The relationship has been adjusted.

Further, the reproducing element 23 is a magnetoresistive film whose electric resistance is converted according to the magnitude of the magnetic field leaking from the perpendicular recording layer d2 of the disk D. A bias current is supplied to the reproducing element 23 from the control unit 8 via a lead film (not shown). As a result, the control unit 8 can detect a change in the magnetic field leaked from the disk D as a change in voltage, and can reproduce a signal from the change in voltage.

Note that the disk D of the present embodiment is composed of at least two layers of a perpendicular recording layer d2 having an easy axis of magnetization in a direction perpendicular to the disk surface D1 and a soft magnetic layer d3 made of a high permeability material. Use vertical double-layer discs. As such a disk D, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, a soft magnetic layer d3, an intermediate layer d4, a perpendicular recording layer d2, a protective layer d5, and a lubricating layer d6 are sequentially formed on a substrate dl. Use the film.

[0074] The substrate dl is, for example, an aluminum substrate or a glass substrate. The soft magnetic layer d3 is a high permeability layer. The intermediate layer d4 is a crystal control layer of the perpendicular recording layer d2. The perpendicular recording layer d2 is a perpendicular anisotropic magnetic layer, and for example, a CoCrPt alloy is used. Protective layer d5 Is for protecting the perpendicular recording layer d2, and for example, a DLC (diamond “like” carbon) film is used. For the lubrication layer d6, for example, a fluorine-based liquid lubricant is used.

[0075] Next, the case where various kinds of information are recorded / reproduced on / from the disk D by the information recording / reproducing apparatus 1 configured as described above will be described below.

[0076] First, the spindle motor 7 is driven to rotate the disk D in a certain direction. Next, the actuator 6 is actuated to scan the beam 3 in the XY directions via the carriage 11. As a result, as shown in FIG. 1, the force S for positioning the recording head 2 at a desired position on the disk D can be achieved. At this time, the recording head 2 receives a force that rises by the two ridges 20b formed on the opposing surface 20a of the slider 20, and is pressed against the disk D side with a predetermined force by the beam 3 or the like. The recording head 2 floats to a position separated by a predetermined distance H from the disk D as shown in FIG.

In addition, even when the recording head 2 receives wind pressure generated due to the undulation of the disk D, the displacement in the Z direction is absorbed by the beam 3 and is displaced about the XY axis by the gimbal portion 24. It is possible to absorb the wind pressure caused by the swell. Therefore, the recording head 2 can be floated in a stable state.

Here, when recording information, the control unit 8 operates the optical signal controller 5 and supplies the coil 33 with a current modulated according to the information to operate the recording element 21.

First, in response to an instruction from the control unit 8, the optical signal controller 5 causes the light beam L to enter from the proximal end side of the optical waveguide 4. The incident light beam L travels toward the front end side in the core 4a of the optical waveguide 4 and is introduced into the core 40 from one end side of the spot size converter 22, as shown in FIG. At this time, the light beam L is introduced into the core 40 in a direction parallel to the slider 20. Then, the introduced light beam L is reflected by the reflecting surface 40a and changes its direction by approximately 90 degrees. That is, the direction changes in a direction different from the introduction direction. Then, the light beam L whose direction has changed is directed toward the other end located on the disk D side. Then, the light beam L propagates through the light beam condensing unit 4 Ob toward the other end side.

[0080] At this time, the light beam condensing part 40b is drawn so that the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is gradually decreased from one end side to the other end side. Therefore, when the light beam L passes through the light beam condensing part 40 b, it is gradually condensed while repeating reflection on the side surface, and the inside of the core 40 is reflected. Propagate. In particular, since the clad 41 is in close contact with the side surface of the core 40, light does not leak to the outside of the core 40. Therefore, the introduced light beam L can be propagated to the other end side without being wasted.

[0081] Therefore, the light beam L is narrowed down when it reaches the other end side of the light beam condensing part 40b, and the spot size is reduced. That is, the light beam condensing unit 40b can narrow the spot size of the introduced light beam L to a small size having a diameter of about 1 μm. Thereby, the spot light R can be generated and emitted from the end face 40c on the other end side to the outside.

Then, the disk D is locally heated by the spot light R, and the coercive force temporarily decreases. In particular, the light beam condensing unit 40b generates the spot light R in the vicinity of the main magnetic pole 32, that is, in a range separated from the main magnetic pole 32 by a distance approximately equal to the diameter of the spot light R. The coercive force of disk D can be reduced as close as possible.

On the other hand, when a current is supplied to the coil 33 by the control unit 8, a current magnetic field generates a magnetic field in the magnetic circuit 31 according to the principle of the electromagnet, so that the disk is interposed between the main magnetic pole 32 and the auxiliary magnetic pole 30. A recording magnetic field perpendicular to D can be generated. Then, the magnetic flux generated from the main magnetic pole 32 side passes straight through the perpendicular recording layer d2 of the disk D and reaches the soft magnetic layer d3 as shown in FIG. As a result, recording can be performed in a state in which the magnetization of the perpendicular recording layer d2 is directed perpendicular to the disk surface D1. Further, the magnetic flux reaching the soft magnetic layer d3 returns to the auxiliary magnetic pole 30 via the soft magnetic layer d3. At this time, when returning to the auxiliary magnetic pole 30, the direction of magnetization is not affected. This is because the area force of the auxiliary magnetic pole 30 facing the disk surface D1 is larger than the main magnetic pole 32, so that the magnetic flux density is large and a force sufficient to reverse the magnetization does not occur. That is, recording can be performed only on the main magnetic pole 32 side.

As a result, information can be recorded by a hybrid magnetic recording method in which the spot light R and the recording magnetic field generated by the magnetic poles 30 and 32 cooperate with each other. In addition, since recording is performed by the perpendicular recording method, stable recording that is hardly affected by the thermal fluctuation phenomenon or the like can be performed. Therefore, the writing reliability can be improved.

In particular, since the coercive force of the disk D can be reduced in the vicinity of the main magnetic pole 32, the peak position of the heating temperature can be set at a position where the recording magnetic field acts locally. Follow Thus, recording can be performed reliably, reliability can be improved, and high density recording can be achieved with the power S.

Next, when reproducing the information recorded on the disc D, the reproducing element 23 fixed adjacent to the spot size converter 22 leaks from the perpendicular recording layer d2 of the disc D. In response to a magnetic field, the electrical resistance changes according to the magnitude. Therefore, the voltage of the reproducing element 23 changes. As a result, the control unit 8 can detect a change in the magnetic field leaking from the disk D as a change in voltage. The control unit 8 can reproduce information by reproducing the signal from the change in voltage.

[0087] In particular, according to the spot size converter 22 of the present embodiment, the force is applied to the disk D from the upper surface side of the slider 20, and the light is collected along a substantially straight optical axis toward the end surface 40c on the other end side. Since the spot light R can be generated while shining, a lens that does not tilt the optical axis and is difficult to adjust as in the conventional case is unnecessary. Therefore, the light beam L can be efficiently collected to generate the spot light R, and the disk D can be efficiently heated. Therefore, the writing reliability can be improved.

In the present embodiment, since the cladding 41 is formed with one end and the other end of the core 40 exposed to the outside, the light flux L is directly applied to the core 40 without passing through the cladding 41. The power S can be introduced and the spot light R can be emitted to the outside. Therefore, the spot light R can be generated more efficiently and the disk D can be heated.

In addition, since the light flux L is introduced using the optical waveguide 4 and is propagated through the core 40, the light flux L is not propagated in the air as in the prior art. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the light guide loss as much as possible. Further, since the spot size converter 22 can be configured by the core 40 and the clad 41, the configuration can be facilitated.

Further, since the recording element 21 and the spot size converter 22 are arranged in this order on the side surface on the outflow end side of the slider 20, each component other than the optical waveguide 4 overlaps in the thickness direction of the slider 20. To prevent that. Therefore, the recording head 2 can be designed to be compact and thin. In addition, since the light flux L can be reliably introduced using the optical waveguide 4, a light source that generates the light flux L can be easily arranged. That is, as shown in FIG. 1, the optical signal controller 5 can be disposed in a housing 9 where it is easy to install. In addition, when the recording head 2 of the present embodiment is manufactured, it can be manufactured using a semiconductor technique such as a photolithography technique and an etching technique. That is, even if the spot size converter 22 is provided, the spot size converter 22 can be simultaneously formed in the flow of the conventional manufacturing process without using a special method.

More specifically, after processing the slider 20 into a predetermined outer shape, the recording element 21 is formed on the side surface on the outflow end side of the slider 20 using the semiconductor technology. Next, a spot size converter 22 is formed on the recording element 21 in the same manner using semiconductor technology. Finally, the reproducing element 23 may be built on the spot size converter 22. In this way, it is possible to easily manufacture the recording head 2 by adding only one manufacturing process of the spot size converter 22 in the process of manufacturing each component in order from the slider 20 side.

In manufacturing the spot size converter 22, first, the cladding 41 is formed on the main magnetic pole 32. At this time, in order to connect the optical waveguide 4 to one end side later, the clad 41 is patterned so that the groove 41a is formed. Next, after the core 40 is formed in a convex shape on the clad 41, etching is appropriately performed to form the reflecting surface 40a and the light beam condensing part 40b, respectively. Next, the clad 41 is formed again so as to confine the core 40 inside. Finally, the outer shape of the clad 41 is processed into a predetermined shape. At this time, a force S for forming the end face 40c can be obtained by cutting the other end side of the spot size converter 22 by dicing or the like. In this manner, the spot size converter 22 can be easily manufactured using semiconductor technology.

In addition, according to the information recording / reproducing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, since the recording head 2 described above is provided, it is possible to cope with high-density recording with high writing reliability and high quality. The power S can be achieved. At the same time, the thickness can be reduced.

(Second embodiment)

Next, a second embodiment of the recording head according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the second embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

The difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is that, in the first embodiment, the light beam L is collected to generate the spot light R, and the force that heats the disk D by the spot light R S, second embodiment The recording head 2 in this state is a point where the near-field light R1 is further generated from the spot light R and the disk D is heated by the near-field light R1.

That is, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the recording head 50 of the present embodiment has a spot size converter (spot light generating element) in which the near-field light generating element 51 is provided in the light beam condensing unit 40b. ) 52.

As shown in FIG. 9, the near-field light generating element 51 is composed of a light shielding film 53 formed on the end face 40c and a minute opening 54 formed substantially at the center of the light shielding film 53. . The minute opening 54 is, for example, a circular opening having a diameter of several tens of nm to several hundreds of nm.

According to the spot size converter 52 configured in this way, after the light beam L is condensed into the spot light R, the spot size can be further reduced to obtain the near-field light R1. That is, the light beam L condensed by the light beam condensing unit 40b passes through the minute aperture 54 and then comes out to the outside. At this time, since the spot size is further reduced by passing through the minute opening 54, the near-field light R1 is obtained. Therefore, in this case, near-field light R1 having the same spot size as the minute aperture 54 is generated.

[0099] Accordingly, the near-field light R1 can heat the disc in a smaller area, and can achieve higher density recording. In this case, the distance between the main magnetic pole 32 and the end face 40c of the light flux collecting section 40b may be designed to be a distance of several tens nm to several hundreds nm, which is approximately the same as the diameter of the near-field light R1. By doing so, the recording magnetic field can be reliably placed within the range heated by the near-field light R1.

[0100] In the present embodiment, the force that circularly forms the minute opening 54 is not limited to this shape. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, a triangular micro opening 54 may be used. Even in this case, the near-field light R1 can be generated. Particularly in this case, it is preferable to introduce the light beam L into the optical waveguide 4 after adjusting the polarization component of the light beam L in the direction of the arrow L2 shown in the drawing. By doing so, the near-field light R1 can be concentrated in the vicinity of one side of the minute aperture 54 (region S shown in the figure). Therefore, higher density recording can be achieved.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 11, the minute opening 54 may be formed so that the triangular protrusions face each other with a minute gap 55 therebetween. By doing this, the near-field light R1 is passed through the minute gap 55. Since it can be localized, it is possible to achieve higher density recording.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 12, a minute scatterer 56 that scatters the collected light beam L may be formed in a minute opening 54 formed in a square shape. For example, the minute scatterer 56 may be formed by vapor deposition, film formation, or the like on the end face 40c so that the minute scatterer 56 comes to substantially the center position of the minute opening 54. By doing so, the near-field light R1 can be centrally localized in the vicinity of the minute scatterer 56, so that further high-density recording can be achieved. (Third embodiment)

Next, a third embodiment of the recording head according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the third embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0103] The difference between the third embodiment and the first embodiment is that in the first embodiment, the recording element 21, the spot size converter 22, and the reproducing element 23 are arranged in order from the side surface on the outflow end side of the slider 20. Although fixed, the recording head 60 of the third embodiment is that the reproducing element 23, the recording element 21, and the spot size converter 22 are fixed in order from the side surface on the outflow end side of the slider 20. .

That is, the reproducing element 23 of the recording head 60 of the present embodiment is provided between the recording element 21 and the side surface on the inflow end side of the slider 20 as shown in FIG. Therefore, the spot size converter 22 and the recording element 21 are moved to the outflow end side of the slider 20 by the thickness of the reproducing element 23 as compared with the case of the first embodiment.

Here, the attitude of the slider 20 at the time of flying will be described in more detail. As shown in FIG. 14, the slider 20 is slightly tilted with respect to the disk surface D1. Specifically, with the outflow end side approaching the disk D, the angle Θ formed by the disk surface D1 and the ABS of the slider 20 is inclined so as to maintain a very small angle (for example, about 1 ° to 5 °). For this reason, the distance H from the disk surface D1 is gradually separated from the outflow end of the slider 20 toward the inflow end. That is, the outflow end side force of the slider 20 is in the state closest to the disk surface D1.

Therefore, according to the recording head 60 of the present embodiment, since the spot size converter 22 and the recording element 21 are closer to the outflow end side of the slider 20, this is compared with the case of the first embodiment. In comparison, the spot size converter 22 and the recording element 21 can be brought closer to the disk surface Dl. Therefore, the force S can be applied to the disc D more efficiently by applying the spot light R and the recording magnetic field, and higher density recording can be performed. Other functions and effects are the same as those of the first embodiment.

(Fourth embodiment)

Next, a fourth embodiment of the recording head according to the invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the fourth embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

[0107] The difference between the fourth embodiment and the first embodiment is that, in the first embodiment, the recording element 21, the spot size converter 22, and the reproducing element 23 are arranged in order from the side surface on the outflow end side of the slider 20. Although fixed, the recording head 70 of the fourth embodiment is that the reproducing element 23 is provided in a state of being embedded in the clad 41 of the spot size converter 22.

That is, as shown in FIG. 15, the reproducing element 23 of the recording head 70 of the present embodiment is embedded in a part of the clad 41 that confines the core 40 therein. Therefore, the thickness of the reproducing element 23 can be absorbed by the clad 41, and the spot size converter 22 and the recording element 21 can be brought closer to the outflow end side of the slider 20 as in the third embodiment. Therefore, when the slider 20 is inclined and floated, the spot size converter 22 and the recording element 21 can be brought closer to the disk surface D1 as compared with the case of the first embodiment. Therefore, the spot light R and the recording magnetic field can be applied to the disk D more efficiently, and higher density recording can be performed. Other functions and effects are the same as in the first embodiment.

(Fifth embodiment)

Next, a fifth embodiment of the recording head according to the invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the fifth embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

[0109] The difference between the fifth embodiment and the first embodiment is that, in the first embodiment, the force in which the clad 41 is formed with one end side of the core 40 exposed to the outside is different from that of the fifth embodiment. The recording head 80 is that one end side of the core 40 is covered with the clad 41. That is, the recording head 80 of the present embodiment has a spot size converter (spot light generating element) 81 in which one end side of the core 40 is covered with the cladding 41 as shown in FIG. Therefore, the light beam L that has traveled through the core 4 a of the optical waveguide 4 passes through the cladding 41 and is then introduced into the core 40 of the spot size converter 81. Even in the case of the present embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be achieved. In addition, when manufacturing the spot size converter 81 of the present embodiment, unlike the case of the first embodiment, it is not necessary to pattern the clad 41 so that one end side of the core 40 is exposed. Therefore, it has the advantage that it can be manufactured efficiently in a shorter time than it is easy to manufacture.

(Sixth embodiment)

Next, a sixth embodiment of the recording head according to the invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the sixth embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0111] The difference between the sixth embodiment and the first embodiment is that, in the first embodiment, the core 40 of the spot size converter 22 faces the slider 20 when viewed from the outflow end side of the slider 20. Although the recording head 85 of the sixth embodiment is formed linearly so as to be substantially perpendicular to the surface 20a, the recording head 85 of the sixth embodiment is formed obliquely so that the core 40 is inclined with respect to the facing surface 20a. It is a point.

That is, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the recording head 85 of this embodiment is inclined obliquely from one end side to the other end side when viewed from the outflow end side of the slider 20. A spot size converter (spot light generating element) 86 having a core 40 force is provided. Specifically, one end side of the core 40 is shifted in the lateral width direction of the slider 20 from the position of the first embodiment, and is formed obliquely from the position toward the other end side. In the present embodiment, the position of the optical waveguide 4 may be fixed while being shifted in the lateral width direction of the slider 20 in accordance with the position of the core 40.

FIG. 18 is a view of the core 40 as viewed from the direction of arrow A shown in FIG. 17, that is, from the outflow end side of the slider 20. Further, in FIG. 18, only a part of the clad 41 is shown for easy understanding.

[0114] The recording element 21 and the spot size converter 86 of the present embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 17, they are not completely adjacent to each other, but are partially overlapped. That is, the recording element 21 of the present embodiment is formed in an inclined state! /, And is formed so as to be aligned horizontally with respect to the core 40 !.

Therefore, the spot size converter 86 and the recording element 21 can be brought closer to the outflow end side of the slider 20 as compared with the first embodiment. Therefore, when the slider 20 is inclined and floated, the spot size converter 86 and the recording element 21 can be brought closer to the disk surface D1 as compared with the case of the first embodiment. Therefore, the spot light R and the recording magnetic field can be applied to the disk D more efficiently, and higher density recording can be performed.

[0116] In addition, since the core 40 is formed obliquely, the overall length (hereinafter referred to as the core length) can be made longer than the height of the slider 20. Therefore, the force S can be reduced as compared with the first embodiment. In general, when the cross-sectional area of the core 40 is rapidly reduced, the ratio of the light beam L (leakage light) leaking from the core 40 increases, and the light propagation efficiency decreases. However, according to the core 40 of the present embodiment, the gradual decrease rate of the cross-sectional area can be reduced as described above, so that the light propagation rate of the light flux L is improved compared to the first embodiment. That power S. Therefore, it is possible to generate spot light R with a higher light intensity, and to achieve further high density recording.

[0117] The other functions and effects are the same as those of the first embodiment. Further, in the case of this embodiment, contrary to the case of the first embodiment, the recording element 21 may be configured so that the slider 20 side becomes the main magnetic pole 32 and the spot size converter 86 side becomes the auxiliary magnetic pole 30.

(Seventh embodiment)

Next, a seventh embodiment of the recording head according to the invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the seventh embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0118] The difference between the seventh embodiment and the first embodiment is that, in the first embodiment, the core 40 of the spot size converter 22 is formed linearly when viewed from the outflow end side of the slider 20. The 1S recording head 90 of the seventh embodiment is that the core 40 is curved.

That is, the recording head 90 of the present embodiment has a slider 20 as shown in FIGS. When viewed from the outflow end side, a spot size converter (spot light generation element) 91 including a core 40 that is curved from one end side to the other end side is provided. Specifically, one end side and the other end side of the core 40 are located at the same position as in the first embodiment, and the direction from one end side to the other end side is bent, and only the path along the way is bent at several places. Is curved.

Note that FIG. 20 is a view of the core 40 as seen from the direction of arrow A shown in FIG. 19, that is, from the outflow end side of the slider 20. In FIG. 20, only a part of the clad 41 is shown for easy viewing.

[0121] Further, the recording element 21 and the spot size converter 91 of the present embodiment are not completely adjacent to each other as in the first embodiment, but are partially overlapped as shown in FIG. It has become a state. That is, the recording element 21 of the present embodiment is formed so as to enter the region of the core 40 that is curved in the middle. In other words, the core 40 is formed so as to bypass the recording element 21 in order to prevent interference with the recording element 21.

Therefore, compared to the first embodiment, the spot size converter 91 and the recording element 21 can be brought closer to the outflow end side of the slider 20. Therefore, when the slider 20 is inclined and floated, the spot size converter 91 and the recording element 21 can be brought closer to the disk surface D1 compared to the case of the first embodiment. Therefore, the spot light R and the recording magnetic field can be applied to the disk D more efficiently, and higher density recording can be performed. Other functions and effects are the same as in the first embodiment.

In the case of this embodiment, contrary to the case of the first embodiment, the recording element 21 is configured such that the slider 20 side is the main magnetic pole 32 and the spot size converter 91 side is the auxiliary magnetic pole 30. It ’s fine.

In the seventh embodiment described above, a reproducing element 23 may be provided between the side surface of the outflow end of the slider 20 and the recording element 21 as shown in FIG. This is more preferable because the spot size converter 91 and the recording element 21 can be further brought closer to the outflow end side of the slider 20. Further, in the above-described seventh embodiment, the force is applied from one end side to the other end side, and the core 40 is bent by bending the intermediate path at several places. As shown in FIG. 22, no bent portion is generated. You may make it curve smoothly. This is more preferable because the light beam L can be propagated in a state where the loss is further reduced. Further, even in the case of the core 40 shown in FIGS. 19 to 22, since the core length can be increased similarly to the sixth embodiment, the same effects can be obtained. That is, the spot light R having a higher light intensity can be generated, and higher density recording can be achieved.

(Eighth embodiment)

Next, an eighth embodiment of the recording head according to the invention will be described with reference to FIG. In the eighth embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

The difference between the eighth embodiment and the first embodiment is that, in the first embodiment, the spot size converter 22 from the base end side where the cladding 4b of the optical waveguide 4 is connected to the optical signal controller 5 is used. However, the recording head 100 according to the eighth embodiment includes the optical waveguide 4 in which the notch T is formed on the front end side of the clad 4b. It is.

That is, as shown in FIG. 23, the clad 4b of the optical waveguide 4 of the present embodiment is obliquely cut over the entire circumference on the tip side connected to the core 40 of the spot size converter 22. The outer diameter is getting smaller. The space created by the cut portion is the cutout portion T.

Here, as a procedure for attaching the optical waveguide 4, first, an adhesive (not shown) is applied around the clad 4b. Next, the groove 41a formed in the clad 41 of the spot size converter 22 and the optical waveguide 4 coated with an adhesive are fitted in the groove! Fix firmly. Finally, the adhesive is cured to complete the attachment of the optical waveguide 4.

[0129] By the way, after fitting the optical waveguide 4 to which the adhesive is applied, the adhesive enters the interface between the core 4a of the optical waveguide 4 and the core 40 of the spot size converter 22 due to a capillary phenomenon or the like. There was a case. If the adhesive enters, the light flux L introduced from the optical waveguide 4 to the core 40 may be adversely affected and light may be lost.

[0130] However, in the present embodiment, the notch T is formed in the optical waveguide 4, so that the optical waveguide 4 is bonded before entering the interface between the core 4a of the optical waveguide 4 and the core 40 of the spot size converter 22. The agent can be stored in the notch T. Therefore, the inconvenience described above occurs. The power to prevent this.

[0131] In the present embodiment, the cutout portion T is formed by cutting the entire circumference of the clad 41 obliquely. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and at least one tip side of the clad 41 is cut. It is possible to form the notch T.

[0132] It should be noted that the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

For example, in each of the embodiments described above, the air floating type information recording / reproducing apparatus in which the recording head is levitated has been described as an example. The disk and slider may be in contact. That is, the recording head according to the present invention may be a contact slider type head. Even in this case, the same effect can be obtained.

Industrial applicability

[0134] According to the recording head of the present invention, it is possible to generate spot light by efficiently condensing a light beam, and to improve the writing reliability. In addition, it is possible to reduce the size and thickness by using force S.

[0135] Further, according to the information recording / reproducing apparatus of the present invention, since the recording head described above is provided! /, It is possible to cope with high-density recording with high writing reliability and high quality. The power to make it S At the same time, a reduction in size and thickness can be achieved.

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] The magnetic recording medium rotating in a certain direction is heated by the spot light generated by condensing the light beam, and a perpendicular recording magnetic field is applied to the magnetic recording medium to cause magnetization reversal and A recording head for recording,

A slider disposed opposite to the surface of the magnetic recording medium;

A recording element having a main magnetic pole and an auxiliary magnetic pole fixed to the front end surface of the slider and generating the recording magnetic field;

Drawing is performed so that the reflection surface that reflects the light beam introduced from one end side to the other end side in a direction different from the introduction direction and the cross-sectional area perpendicular to the direction from the one end side to the other end side gradually decrease And the reflected light flux is condensed and propagated toward the other end side to generate the spot light, and the spot light is emitted from the other end side to the outside. A core formed of a material having a refractive index lower than that of the core, the second end of the core being exposed to the outside, and being in close contact with the side surface of the core and confining the core inside. A spot light generating element fixed adjacent to the recording element with the end side facing the magnetic recording medium side;

A light beam introducing means fixed to the slider in a state of being arranged in parallel to the slider and introducing the light beam into the core from the one end side;

The recording head characterized in that the light beam condensing unit generates the spot light in the vicinity of the main magnetic pole.

[2] In the recording head according to claim 1,! /

The recording head is characterized in that the clad is formed with one end side of the core exposed to the outside! /.

[3] In the recording head according to claim 1,! /

The light beam condensing unit is provided with a near-field light generating element that generates near-field light from the spot light and emits the near-field light from the other end side to the outside. Seeking head.

[4] In the recording head according to claim 1,! /

Playback that outputs an electric signal corresponding to the magnitude of the magnetic field leaking from the magnetic recording medium A recording head comprising an element! /.

[5] In the recording head according to claim 4,

The recording head, wherein the reproducing element is provided between the slider and the recording element.

[6] The recording head according to claim 4!

The read head is provided in a state of being embedded in the clad.

[7] The recording head according to claim 4,

The recording head can be moved in a direction parallel to the surface of the magnetic recording medium, and the recording head is supported on the leading end side while being rotatable about two axes parallel to the surface of the magnetic recording medium and orthogonal to each other. And a beam to

A light source for making the light beam incident on the light beam introducing means;

An actuator for supporting the base end side of the beam and moving the beam in a direction parallel to the surface of the magnetic recording medium;

A rotation drive unit for rotating the magnetic recording medium in the fixed direction;

An information recording / reproducing apparatus comprising: a control unit that controls the operation of the recording element and the light source.