High data rate atom interferometric device
| DWPI Title: Light-pulse atomic interferometry (LPAI) apparatus for gyroscope, has magnetic coils which confine atomic vapor in magneto-optical traps (MOTs), and produce magnetic field that is non-zero at midpoint when magnetic coils are activated |
| Abstract: A light-pulse atomic interferometry (LPAI) apparatus is provided. The LPAI apparatus comprises a vessel, two sets of magnetic coils configured to magnetically confine an atomic vapor in two respective magneto-optical traps (MOTs) within the vessel when activated, and an optical system configured to irradiate the atomic vapor within the vessel with laser radiation that, when suitably tuned, can launch atoms previously confined in each of the MOTs toward the other MOT. In embodiments, the magnetic coils are configured to produce a magnetic field that is non-zero at the midpoint between the traps. In embodiments, the time-of-flight of the launched atoms from one MOT to the other is 12 ms or less. In embodiments, the MOTs are situated approximately 36 mm apart. In embodiments, the apparatus is configured to activate the magnetic coils according to a particular temporal magnetic field gradient profile. |
| Use: LPAI apparatus for use in gyroscope and accelerometer, as well as in other instruments for sensing and metrology. |
| Advantage: Two design features allow exchange-cloud method to function efficiently, and permits the system to be reduced in size, which makes LPAI a more viable technology for applications in dynamic environments. Improves the possibility of using a permanently sealed vapor cell without the need for cooling, since frame is fabricated from fiberglass circuit board material which, because it is a low-conductivity material, helps to suppress eddy currents. High data rate also allows for the miniaturization of the LPAI device due to reduction of the volume in which the atoms undergo free-fall. Allows for use of a single optical fiber to provide both Raman frequencies, thus rejecting common-phase noise from the fiber path length. |
| Novelty: The LPAI apparatus comprises a vessel, two sets of magnetic coils that magnetically confine an atomic vapor in two respective MOTs within the vessel when activated, and an optical system which irradiates laser radiation to atomic vapor within the vessel. The laser radiation, when suitably tuned, can launch atoms previously confined in one magneto-optical trap (MOT) toward other MOT. The magnetic coils produce magnetic field that is non-zero at midpoint between the two sets of magnetic coils, when the magnetic coils are activated. |
| Filed: 3/10/2015 |
| Application Number: US14643970A |
| Tech ID: SD 12369.2 |
| This invention was made with Government support under Contract No. DE-NA0003525 awarded by the United States Department of Energy/National Nuclear Security Administration. The Government has certain rights in the invention. |
| Data from Derwent World Patents Index, provided by Clarivate All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Clarivate content, including by framing or similar means, is prohibited without the prior written consent of Clarivate. Clarivate and its logo, as well as all other trademarks used herein are trademarks of their respective owners and used under license. |