Abstract: A method for controlling magnetostriction in a free layer of a magnetoresistive sensor. A pinned layer structure is deposited and then a spacer layer, preferably Cu is deposited. Oxygen is introduced into the spacer layer. The oxygen can be introduced either during the deposition of the spacer layer or after the spacer layer has been deposited. A free layer structure is then deposited over the spacer layer. A capping layer such as Ta can be deposited over the free layer structure. The sensor is annealed to set the magnetization of the pinned layer. In the process of annealing the sensor the oxygen migrates out of the spacer. After annealing, no significant amount of oxygen is present in either the spacer layer or the free layer structure, and only trace amounts of oxygen are present in the Ta capping layer.

Abstract: A game device includes a circular, somewhat rigid game structure having a substantially flat upper playing surface and a lightweight ball which is movable along the upper surface. The game structure has a central opening therein and is adapted to be positioned upon and is revolvable with the turntable of a phonograph. A plurality of circumferentially arranged spaced apart posts are affixed to the game structure adjacent the periphery thereof, the spacing between each adjacent pair of posts being slightly less than the diameter of the ball. A plurality of small deflector elements project upwardly from the upper surface for the purpose of deflecting movement of the ball. Indicia is located between adjacent pairs of posts.

Abstract: A toy or game device is comprised of a ball which is supported on a small upright post or pylon. An elongate rod is provided with a flexible line which in turn is connected to a generally cylindrical ball-engaging member. The ball-engaging member is formed of a yieldable material and is provided with a plurality of spaced apart flexible fingers. The opening defined between the fingers is slightly less than the cross-sectional size of the ball. By manipulating the flexible rod, the ball-engaging member may be vertically reciprocated towards and away from the post-supported ball. If accurately manipulated, the ball-engaging member during its downward movement may be caused to engage and grip the ball, and upon its subsequent upward movement will remove the ball from the post without causing the latter to fall.