DynSyst Special Topics: Spin Torque Nano-Oscillators for Microwave Signal Generation

该奖项的研究目标是并行开发用于建模和分析自旋力矩纳米振荡器（STNO）阵列集体行为的理论和计算方法。这些类型的纳米振荡器由至少两层铁磁材料组成，铁磁材料由一层金属层隔开。通过层施加的自旋极化电流可以促进局部扭矩，从而激发稳定振荡和小微波电压信号。这项研究将导致在科学和工程中研究复杂系统的一般方法，特别是建模，设计和制造具有较大微波功率输出的STNO阵列。研究方法从分析导致同步振荡的基本分叉到设计和制造纳米尺度微波信号发生器。该项目的成果有可能导致制造一种纳米级微波信号发生器，这种信号发生器应该在宽频带（约40 GHz）上可调谐。这样的频率范围将使微波器件对于许多应用是理想的，包括电信（例如，无线系统）、雷达（例如空中交通管制、天气预报）、天线和导航系统。制作这种器件的理论基础在于各种研究小组的猜想，即增加微波功率输出的可能解决方案是同步多个STNO，以便可以从系综中提取具有共同频率和相位的相干信号。研究生和本科工程，数学和物理学生，将被招募课堂教学和参与研究活动。将在不同地点开展传播和外联活动。

The research goal of this award is the parallel development of theoretical and computational methods for modeling and analyzing the collective behavior of arrays of Spin Torque Nano-Oscillators (STNOs). These types of nano-oscillators consist of at least two layers of ferromagnetic materials separated by a nonmagnetic metal layer. A spin-polarized current applied through the layers can facilitate a local torque, thus exciting steady oscillations and small microwave voltage signals. The research will result in general methods to study complex systems in science and engineering, and, in particular, to model, design and fabricate arrays of STNOs with larger microwave power output. The research approach progresses from the analysis of the underlying bifurcations that lead to synchronized oscillations to the design and fabrication of a nano-scale microwave signal generator. Deliverables include modeling and bifurcation analysis tools, hardware prototype, research reports, math and engineering research experience and education for students.The results of this project have the potential to lead to the fabrication of a nano-scale microwave signal generator that should be tuneable over a broad frequency band, about 40 GHz. Such frequency range will render the microwave device ideal for many applications, including telecommunications ( e.g., wireless systems), radar( e.g. air traffic control, weather forecasting), antennas and navigation systems. The theoretical foundation for fabricating such device lies on the conjecture by various research groups that a possible solution to increase microwave power output is to synchronize several STNOs so that a coherent signal with a common frequency and phase can be extracted from the ensemble. Graduate and undergraduate engineering, math, and physics students, will be recruited for classroom instruction and to participate in research activities. Dissemination and outreach activities at various venues will be conducted.