Squid with a Coil Inductively Coupled to the Squid via a Mutual Inductance

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This patent introduces a Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (dc-SQUID) sensor where a feedback coil is inductively coupled to the SQUID through a mutual inductance, forming a novel two-terminal device known as the SQUID Bootstrap Circuit (SBC). By connecting the SQUID and the coil in series, the design combines and improves upon previous feedback and noise cancellation techniques, enabling enhanced signal amplification with reduced preamplifier noise. The design allows for flexible coil integration (superconductive or normal metal, integrated or adjacent) and achieves asymmetric current/voltage-flux characteristics and tailored dynamic resistance, significantly improving signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for sensitive magnetic field detection.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Ultra-sensitive magnetometers for medical imaging (e.g., Magnetoencephalography, Magnetocardiography)
• Geophysical exploration and mineral detection
• Non-destructive testing and detection of flaws in materials
• Detection of extremely weak magnetic fields in physics research (e.g., quantum experiments, fundamental particle studies)
• Superconducting electronics for quantum computing readout
• Magnetic nanoparticle detection in biomedical applications
• Integration into low-noise scientific instrumentation for high-precision measurements

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Substantial reduction of preamplifier noise without adding bulk or complexity to the system
• Increased sensitivity and improved signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) compared to traditional SQUIDs
• Retention of a large peak-to-peak voltage swing, resulting in improved readout signal clarity
• Versatile device architecture allowing for easy integration and different coil materials/arrangements
• Dynamic resistance and transfer characteristics can be engineered to optimize the device for specific applications
• Compatible with standard readout electronics and can be realized as an integrated chip
• Simplifies system design by combining noise suppression and feedback advantages into a single two-terminal element

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Patent Abstract

The SQUID Bootstrap Circuit (SBC) consists of a mutually coupled dc-SQUID and a feedback coil. The SQUID and the coil are connected in series. The feedback coil, which can be made of a superconductor or of a normal metal, can be either integrated on the SQUID chip, or be placed separately next to the SQUID. Together, both SQUID and coil form a novel two-terminal device, which will be named SBC. The invention combines the advantages of both, APF and NC and avoids certain drawbacks thereof. With the help of this new design, the current or voltage -Phi characteristics of SQUID will be asymmetric and the equivalent dynamic resistance will be changed.