Abstract: A sensing device exhibits a tunneling magneto-resistive (TMR) effect, and changes electrical resistance in response to a magnetic field. A first current carrying conductor is positioned in proximity to the TMR sensing device, such that upon an application of a sufficient current, a magnetic field is generated. The magnetic field is sufficiently strong and properly oriented so as to cause a magnetization of a soft magnetic layer of the TMR sensing device, thereby causing a change of the TMR sensing device from one bi-stable state to another bi-stable state.

Abstract: A sensing device exhibits a tunneling magneto-resistive (TMR) effect, and changes electrical resistance in response to a magnetic field. A first current carrying conductor is positioned in proximity to the TMR sensing device, such that upon an application of a sufficient current, a magnetic field is generated. The magnetic field is sufficiently strong and properly oriented so as to cause a magnetization of a soft magnetic layer of the TMR sensing device, thereby causing a change of the TMR sensing device from one bi-stable state to another bi-stable state.

Abstract: Giant magnetoresistance structures exhibiting a giant magnetoresistive effect are provided, and apparatuses incorporating said structures. The structures incorporate a giant magnetoresistive element that is surrounded by protective layers that are capable of shielding the element from harsh environmental conditions, thereby enabling their use in harsh environments.

Abstract: Methods and systems for improving permalloy sensitivity. One or more permalloy sensing components can be configured upon a substrate, and one or more conductors are located above a portion of the permalloy sensing component of interest. A current can then be initiated through the conductor. The substrate can then be heated such that the current creates a magnetic field that modifies the anisotropy of the portion of the permalloy sensing component of interest, thereby providing selective anisotropy and improving permalloy sensitivity thereof.

Abstract: A permalloy sensor having high sensitivity is presented A substrate and a sensor has a first surface having a wafer level anisotropy in a given direction. A permalloy resistor pattern of individual runners is deposited on the surface such that the mechanical length of each of said individual runners is perpendicular to the wafer level anisotropy to cause the sensor to have an anisotropy of about 90°. The permalloy is deposited as a thin film and a silicon wafer is the preferred substrate.

Abstract: A magnetic sensor is disclosed in which a ferromagnetic runner (e.g., a permalloy runner) can be located relative to a target. A coil structure is generally wound about the ferromagnetic runner, such that when a magnetic field changes direction along an axial length of the ferromagnetic runner, a voltage is induced in the coil structure that is proportional to a time range of change of a magnetic flux density, due to the sudden internal magnetization reversal of the runner. Additionally, an interfacing circuit can be provided in which the ferromagnetic runner and the coil structure are integrated with the interfacing circuit to thereby produce a magnetic sensor for magnetically sensing the target. The magnetic sensor is highly sensitive and can operate without electrical current or upon a negligible electrical current.

Abstract: Tape tab fasteners are cut from a web stock, which includes a substrate coated on one surface with a pressure-sensitive adhesive and a release sheet positioned on the adhesive coating, and are applied transversely at predetermined intervals along the edge of a moving web of material, such as a web of plastic material suitable as an impervious barrier layer in disposable diapers. The web stock is drawn along a concave guide and a finger, positioned transversely between the substrate and release sheets, separates a predetermined width portion of the release sheet from the adhesive along one side of the web. The separated portion of the release sheet is folded over the remainder thereof. Tape tab fasteners of predetermined width are cut transversely from the end of the web stock and attached to the side edges of the moving web stock.