Controlling vortex chirality and polarity by geometry in magnetic nanodots

Abstract

The independent control of both vortex chirality and polarity is a significant challenge in magnetic devices based on nano-sized magnetic vortex structures. By micromagnetic simulations here, we show that in soft ferromagnetic nanodots with an adequate modulated thickness, the desired combination of chirality and polarity can be achieved just by changing the direction of the in-plane applied magnetic field. Despite the complex behavior, the vortex chirality and polarity control can be summarized in two simple rules that can thus become a useful tool for designing magnetic devices. © 2014 AIP Publishing LLC.