Richard Jule Contreras

Title: The Innovative Journey of Richard Jule Contreras: Master of Magnetoresistive Sensor Technology

Introduction: Richard Jule Contreras, an accomplished inventor based in San Jose, California, has made significant contributions to the field of semiconductor technology. With a remarkable portfolio of nine patents, Contreras has developed pioneering methods that enhance the performance and efficiency of magnetoresistive sensors and magnetic heads.

Latest Patents: Among his most recent innovations, Contreras holds a patent for a method to control the mask profile for read sensor definition. This inventive approach constructs a magnetoresistive sensor while effectively avoiding the shadowing effects of a mask structure during the sensor definition process. The method integrates the use of an antireflective coating (ARC) along with a carefully formed photosensitive mask, which protects specific sensor areas while leaving non-sensor areas exposed. By employing a reactive ion etch (RIE) with elevated platen power, he has optimized the physical component of material removal, enhancing the efficiency of manufacturing processes.

Additionally, Contreras has developed an improved damascene method for forming write coils of magnetic heads. This innovative method includes creating a hard mask layer over an insulator layer, patterning a photoresist layer, and executing several etching steps to produce high-quality write coils. The process culminates in a chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) step, which is significantly improved by removing the remaining hard mask material beforehand.

Career Highlights: Richard Jule Contreras has garnered substantial experience through his work with notable companies such as Semitool, Inc. and International Business Machines Corporation (IBM). His tenure at these established firms has contributed to the development of cutting-edge technologies that push the boundaries of semiconductor design and application.

Collaborations: Throughout his career, Contreras has collaborated with talented individuals, including Joseph John Fatula, Jr. and Robert W. Hitzfeld. These collaborations have led to valuable insights and advancements in their collective fields of expertise.

Conclusion: Richard Jule Contreras exemplifies the spirit of innovation in semiconductor technology, showcasing his ability to solve complex engineering problems through his inventive methods. With his impressive patent portfolio and collaborations with industry professionals, Contreras continues to inspire the next generation of inventors and engineers. His contributions will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the field of magnetoresistive sensors and magnetic head technology.