Abstract: A current-in-the-plane (CIP) giant magnetoresistive (GMR) spin valve sensor has its free layer magnetization stabilized by longitudinal biasing through the use of free layer end-region antiferromagnetic exchange coupling. An antiparallel coupling (APC) layer, such as Ru, is formed on the free layer and a ferromagnetic bias layer is formed on the APC layer. The bias layer is a continuous layer that extends across the entire width of the free layer. The central region of the bias layer is formed of nonmagnetic oxides of one or more of the elements making up the bias layer, with the bias layer end regions remaining ferromagnetic. The oxidized central region of the bias layer defines the central active track-width region of the underlying free layer. The ferromagnetic end regions of the bias layer are antiferromagnetically coupled across the APC layer to the corresponding underlying free layer end regions to provide the longitudinal biasing.

Abstract: A read head has a bottom lead made of material that is relatively polish resistant and a top lead layer that polishes down more easily than the bottom layer. With this structure, when the layers are deposited and then polished down, the top layer recesses away from the sensor (and bottom lead layer) in a controlled fashion, providing an acceptable lead structure that reduces the mismatch between the read head physical read width and magnetic read width.

Abstract: An oil monitoring system storing a remaining percent tachometer oil life, a remaining percent time oil life and a remaining percent odometer oil life. The oil monitoring system has means for selecting and displaying the lowest of these three remaining percent oil life values as the lowest remaining percent oil life. The selected lowest remaining percent oil life is compared to predetermined percentages to display on an in-vehicle display if the oil is OK, if the oil is to be changed soon, or if an oil change is required. The oil monitoring system may include an oil dielectric constant sensor and display if the oil is to be changed soon or an oil change is required as a function in the change in the oil's dielectric constant.

Abstract: An eye safety wear improvement, consisting of a flexible, adhesive, magnification lens, with a diopter power ranging from +1.25 to +4.00 and being adaptable to any eye protection goggles or glasses from welding glass to diving goggles.

Abstract: A stage stabilization device comprising vertically disposed telescoping pipes forming a davit adapted to be connected to a stage. Three grooved periphery wheels, connected with the davit, form a releasable stabilizing connection between the davit and stage supporting cable.