Oven for generation and collimation of an atomic beam

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an atomic beam oven (100) for generation and collimation of an atomic beam. The oven (100) includes a cylindrical cavity (102) configured to store an atom source and the atom source includes one or more alkali to alkaline earth metals, a heating element distributed around the body of the cylindrical cavity (102) to heat the atom source and maintain a uniform temperature gradient between a hot end and cold end of the body, and an array of micro drilled holes (106) arranged in a hexagonal pattern on a separate blank flange (104) clamped onto the cylindrical cavity (102) through a gasket secured by bolts and nuts (108). The heating of the atom source by the one or more heating elements generates a stabilized flux of an outgoing effusive atomic beam from the atom source through an outlet (110).

Description

OVEN FOR GENERATION AND COLLIMATION OF AN ATOMIC BEAMTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of quantum and precision measurements applications. In particular, the present disclosure relates to an atomic beam oven with an array of micro drilled holes to maintain a uniform temperature gradient between a hot and cold end to generate stabilized flux of an atomic beam and restrict generation of cold points to avoid clogging of atoms.BACKGROUND

[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0003] In the field of atomic beam generation and maintenance, the use of microchannel arrays has become a common practice to ensure the controlled and uniform flux of atoms, particularly for applications in atomic clocks, quantum computation, quantum sensing, and more. These setups rely on the critical maintenance of a temperature gradient between the reservoir and the microchannel arrays, especially when dealing with alkali metals and alkaline earth metals. However, a significant challenge arises when these microchannel arrays are placed within an ultra-high vacuum environment. In such conditions, the reduced thermal conduction due to the presence of micro gaps between the microcapillary tubes can lead to the formation of cold points within the arrays. This cold point restricts the movement of atomic flux, ultimately causing clogging and divergence in random directions.

[0004] The consequences of this issue are substantial and result in a relatively short lifespan for the atomic beam source. Frequent replacements are required, leading to increased downtime and reduced efficiency in various scientific experiments and applications related to trapping and cooling of atoms, but restricted only to these experiments. To address this challenge, researchers have explored different techniques and technologies. One approach involves the use of microcapillary tubes held in a hexagonal pattern between two stainless steel components, secured with bolts and nuts. While this method provides a stable structure for the microcapillary tubes, the persistent micro gaps between the tubes continue to be a limiting factor, leading to clogging issues.

[0005] Another technique involves the use of alkali metal dispensers or getters that utilize a pulse of electric current to release atomic vapor, which is subsequently captured using Magneto optical traps, or for performing experiments with atomic vapor and / or for developing quantum technology devices. This technique proves valuable in scenarios where rapid loading of atoms is essential, such as in atom interferometers. However, it comes with the trade-off of reduced atom lifetime in the trap due to increased vapor pressure. Furthermore, it has limitations when working with alkaline earth metals, which exhibit lower vapor pressure, and for experiments requiring high vacuum conditions, such as those related to neutral atom quantum computing and optical clocks. As can be seen, the existing techniques address formation of cold points, however, fail to address the clogging issues and fail to ensure a consistent temperature gradient in ultra-high vacuum environments to avoid any cold points between the micro gaps.

[0006] There is, therefore, a need to overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing techniques, and provide an efficient solution to maintain a uniform temperature gradient between a hot and cold end to generate stabilized flux of an atomic beam and restrict generation of cold points.OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0007] A general object of the present disclosure is to overcome problems associated with clogging of atoms due to cold point generation between the micro gaps which involves the usage of microcapillary tubes and the uneven temperature gradient between reservoir and microcapillary tubes.

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an efficient atomic beam oven that is capable of generating a stable and collimated atomic flux, also enhancing the lifetime of the oven without replacing the atomic source frequently.

[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a solution ensuring a uniform temperature gradient within the atomic beam oven for preventing clogging and maintaining the efficiency of the atom source while generating the atomic beam.

[0010] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a solution to reduce divergence and enhance collimation and distribution of the atomic flux by inclining microchannel arrays at the periphery in relation to a set of central drills on a blank flange.SUMMARY

[0011] Aspects of the present relate to the technical field of quantum and precision measurement applications. In particular, the present disclosure relates to an atomic beam oven with an array of micro drilled holes in a blank flange to maintain a uniform temperature gradient between a hot and cold end to generate stabilized flux of an atomic beam and restrict generation of cold points.

[0012] In an aspect, an atomic beam oven is disclosed. The atomic beam oven may include a cylindrical cavity configured to store an atom source including one or more alkali to alkaline earth metals. Further, the atomic beam oven may include a single heating element distributed around the body of the cylindrical cavity to heat the atom source and maintain a uniform temperature gradient between a hot end and a cold end of the body of the cylindrical cavity. Further, one or more micro drilled holes may be arranged in a hexagonal pattern on a separate blank flange and clamped onto the cylindrical cavity through a gasket. The heating of the atom source by the heating element may generate a stabilized flux of an outgoing effusive atomic beam from the atom source through an outlet.

[0013] The array of micro drilled holes may be inclined at the periphery on the blank flange in relation to a set of central drills. Further, a single heating element may be configured to heat the atom source at a lower temperature near the cylindrical storage of atoms than the temperature at the hot end of the body of the cylindrical cavity near the microchannel arrays.

[0014] The atomic beam oven may further include a single heater connected to a microdrill cylinder to maintain the temperature gradient along the body of the cylindrical cavity. Further, a vacuum pump may be connected to the atomic beam oven for maintaining low pressure inside the oven. Also, the atomic beam oven may be connected to an atomic beam shutter through a rotational feedthrough to regulate the outflow of the atomic beam.

[0015] The one or more alkali to alkaline earth metals may be heated at a specific temperature to produce the atomic beam in a gaseous form inside the cylindrical cavity of the atom source. Further, the one or more alkali to alkaline earth metals are emitted through the microchannel arrays in a collimated form.

[0016] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0017] FIGs. 1A & IB illustrate schematic diagrams of the proposed atomic beam oven, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary representation of a blank flange of the proposed atomic beam oven, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary representation of a sample material used in the proposed atomic beam oven, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the present disclosure. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0021] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification which follow, the word “comprise” and variations thereof, such as, “comprises” and “comprising” are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense that is as “including, but not limited to.”

[0022] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0023] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and / or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0024] In some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forththe broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable.

[0025] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it is individually recited herein.

[0026] The headings and abstract of the invention provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the embodiments.

[0027] The following discussion provides many example embodiments of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus, if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.

[0028] The present disclosure relates to an atomic beam oven with one or more microchannel arrays to maintain a uniform temperature gradient between a hot and cold end to generate stabilized flux of an atomic beam and restrict generation of cold points.

[0029] FIGs. 1A & IB illustrate schematic diagrams of the proposed atomic beam oven, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Referring to FIGs. 1A & IB, in an embodiment, the atomic beam oven 100 may include a cylindrical cavity 102 configured to store an atom source and the atom source may include one or more alkali to alkaline atoms. Further, the atomic beam oven may include a single heating element distributed around the body of the cylindrical cavity 102 to heat the atom source and maintain a uniform temperature gradient between a hot end and cold end of the body, and one or more microchannel arrays 106 arranged in a hexagonal pattern on a separate blank flange 104 clamped onto the cylindrical cavity 102 through a gasket, secured with bolts and nuts 108. The heating of the atom source by the heating element may generate a stabilized flux of an outgoing effusive atomic beam from the atom source through an outlet 110.

[0031] In an example, alkali atoms are atoms comprising elements from Group 1 of the periodic table. The alkali metal group consists of Lithium (Li), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), Rubidium (Rb), Cesium (Cs), and Francium (Fr). These elements exhibit similar properties due to their shared electron configuration in the outermost shell, characterized by a singleelectron. This lone valence electron imparts distinctive chemical behavior to alkali atoms, making them highly reactive and eager to form bonds with other elements. Alkali atoms exhibit fascinating quantum properties that set them apart from other elements. Their electron configurations lead to low ionization energies, making it easier to remove the outermost electron. This characteristic is crucial in experiments involving the creation of cold gases and Bose-Einstein condensates, where precise control over the quantum state of atoms is essential.

[0032] In an example, alkaline-earth metals are atoms comprising elements belonging to Group 2 of the periodic table. The alkaline earth metals, comprising Beryllium (Be), Magnesium (Mg), Calcium (Ca), Strontium (Sr), Barium (Ba), and Radium (Ra). These metals share similar chemical properties due to their outer electron configuration. Alkaline earth metals exhibit distinctive chemical properties that distinguish them from other groups on the periodic table. One notable feature is their tendency to form divalent cations with a +2 charge. This characteristic arises from the fact that alkaline earth metals have two valence electrons in their outermost shell. These +2 charges makes them readily reactive with other elements, especially those in Group 16 (oxygen, sulfur, selenium, etc.), forming stable ionic compounds. The reactivity of alkaline earth metals increases down the group, with beryllium being the least reactive and radium the most. Beryllium, due to its small atomic size and high ionization energy, forms covalent compounds rather than ionic ones. On the other hand, radium is highly reactive, albeit radioactive, and is not commonly found in nature due to its short half-life.

[0033] In an example, temperature gradient refers to the rate of change of temperature with respect to spatial coordinates. In the context of atomic beam ovens, it specifically describes how the temperature varies within the vapor source and its surrounding components. A uniform temperature gradient ensures that the atomic beam possesses consistent thermal energy, leading to a well-defined velocity distribution of atoms.

[0034] In an example, the flux of atoms refers to the rate at which atoms traverse a given area, often represented as the number of atoms passing through a unit area per unit time. Atomic flux is a measure of the flow of atoms through a specific region and is crucial for experiments involving atomic beams, surface science, and other applications such as quantum sensors, quantum computing and also in molecular beam epitaxy. The flux of atoms is determined by factors such as the temperature of the atomic source, the pressure within the system, and the design of the experimental setup. Tire stability of an atomic beam is highly sensitive to the temperature of the oven. Fluctuations in temperature can lead to variations inthe number and velocity of emitted atoms, resulting in an unstable beam. Therefore, precise temperature control is essential for achieving a stabilized flux. The collimation of the atomic beam is another critical aspect of achieving a stabilized flux. Without proper collimation, the beam divergence can increase, leading to a spread of atomic trajectories and a decrease in beam intensity.

[0035] In an embodiment, the gasket used for clamping the blank flange 104 may be a copper gasket, secured with bolts and nuts 108. A tight seal may be created due to the clamping of the blank flange 104 having a knife edge that squeezes into the copper gasket, thereby, eliminating the possibility of vacuum leakage, and preventing the oxidation of an atomic sample 112 in the atom source.

[0036] In an example, a gasket is a mechanical seal that fills the space between two or more mating surfaces, generally to prevent leakage from or into the joint system while under compression. Copper gaskets within atomic beam ovens serve as integral components in creating and maintaining a hermetic seal in the oven's assembly. These seals are vital to prevent leakage of the evaporated material and ensure that the atomic or molecular beam is precisely directed towards the experimental apparatus.. The hermetic sealing provided by copper gaskets is critical in maintaining the vacuum conditions necessary for tire proper functioning of an atomic beam oven. Any leakage can compromise the purity of the atomic or molecular beam and disrupt the accuracy of experiments. Copper's malleability allows the gaskets to conform tightly to the mating surfaces, creating a reliable seal that withstands the rigors of high -temperature operation.

[0037] In an embodiment, a heating element may be a band heater 114 and may be located on the top joints of the blank flange and the cylindrical cavity 104. The temperature may be maintained at a specific point for different atomic samples for initiating sublimation of the atomic sample 112.

[0038] In an example, a band heater consist of a cylindrical-shaped metal band made from materials such as stainless steel or nickel-chromium alloy. This band is equipped with a heating element, which is often a coiled wire that runs through the inner circumference of the band. The entire assembly is encased in an outer sheath for insulation and protection. The fundamental principle behind band heaters is resistive heating. When an electric current passes through the coiled wire within the band, it encounters resistance, leading to the generation of heat. This heat is then transferred to the surrounding object through conduction. The uniformity of heat distribution is a key feature of band heaters. The cylindrical shape ofthe band allows for even coverage around the object, ensuring that no specific part is subjected to excessive heat.

[0039] In an example, a blank flange is a solid disk with no bore (opening) in the center, designed to close the ends of pipes, valves, and pressure vessel openings. The primary purpose of a blank flange is to block the flow' of fluid or gas and prevent leakage from the sealed section. The vacuum integrity of an atomic beam oven is crucial for maintaining tire purity of the atomic beams. Blank flanges, when properly installed and sealed, contribute to the overall vacuum quality, preventing unwanted leaks or contamination that could adversely affect experimental results.

[0040] In an embodiment, the one or more micro drilled holes 106 may be inclined at the periphery on the blank flange 104 in relation to a set of central drills. In an example, central drills may be positioned strategically within the atomic beam oven for shaping and directing tire atomic beam. It typically consists of a small aperture or nozzle through which the atoms pass, creating a focused and collimated beam. The size and shape of this aperture are critical parameters that influence the characteristics of the resulting atomic beam. One of the notable types of central drills used in atomic beam ovens is the skimmer. Skimmers are conical orifice devices that efficiently collimate the atomic beam. The conical shape helps to select atoms based on their velocity, allowing only those within a specific range to pass through. This velocity selection mechanism contributes to the creation of a more uniform and controlled atomic beam.. In addition to the physical design of the central drill, its alignment within the atomic beam oven is a critical factor. Precise alignment ensures that the atomic beam is directed accurately towards the target or experimental apparatus. Misalignment can lead to deviations in the beam trajectory, affecting the reliability and reproducibility of experimental results.

[0041] In an example, microchannel arrays are miniature channels which can be micrometers in size, are designed to manipulate and transport fluids and gases with precision. The fundamental principle behind microchannel arrays lies in their diminutive size, allowing for precise control over fluid flow and interactions. The channels, typically ranging from tens to hundreds of micrometers in width, are designed to exploit the unique characteristics of fluid behavior at the microscale. In atomic beam oven, the size and geometry of the microchannels are critical factors. The dimensions are typically on the order of micrometers, allowing for precise control over the atomic flow. The choice of material for the microchannels is crucial to avoid interactions that could alter the atomic properties. Materialswith low reactivity and minimal outgassing, such as certain ceramics or metals, are often preferred.

[0042] In an embodiment, the microchannel arrays 106 may be incorporated into the blank flange 104 for proper collimation of the atomic beam through an outlet 110 into a cold atomic chamber 120.

[0043] In an example, collimation refers to the process of aligning and narrowing tire trajectory of atomic particles to achieve a focused and directed beam. Collimation is essential to control the trajectory of atomic particles, ensuring that the beam is directed with high precision and enhance the coherence of the atomic beam. Coherence refers to the degree of parallelism among the trajectories of the emitted particles. A well-collimated beam exhibits high coherence, resulting in a focused and tightly packed stream of atoms.

[0044] In an embodiment, the heating element may be configured to heat the atom source at a lower temperature near the microchannel arrays 106 than the temperature at the hot end of the body of the cylindrical cavity 102.

[0045] In an embodiment, the oven may be connected to a vacuum pump to maintain low pressure inside the oven increasing the lifetime of the oven. The pressure may be measured using a pressure gauge connected to the vacuum pump.

[0046] In an example, a vacuum pump is a mechanical device designed to remove gas molecules from a sealed volume to create a vacuum. The absence of air or other gases in a particular space opens up a world of possibilities for various applications. These pumps essentially create a pressure difference, causing air or gas to move from an area of higher pressure to one of lower pressure. One of the defining features of atomic beam ovens is the requirement for an ultra-high vacuum environment. The vacuum pump may be a turbo molecular pump, ion pump, cryogenic pump, diffusion pump or the like.

[0047] In an embodiment, an atomic beam shutter can be provided through a rotational feedthrough to regulate the outflow of the atomic beam. The rotational feedthrough may be controlled using regulated air pressure to control the outflow of the atomic beam. In an exemplary embodiment, a translational feedthrough can also be used to regulate the outflow of the atomic beam.

[0048] In an example, an atomic beam shutter is a device designed to control the flow of quantum particles with precision and accuracy. Its primary purpose is to regulate the passage of atomic particles through a designated pathway. The atomic beam shutter includes an aperture or slit, a mechanical actuator, and a timing mechanism. The atomic beam passes through the aperture or slit. This component determines the size and shape of the beam. Tiremechanical actuator is responsible for opening and closing the shutter. This could be a physical shutter that moves to block or allow the passage of the atomic beam. Atomic beam shutters are equipped with mechanisms to control the duration for which the shuter remains open. Timing mechanisms may involve electronic controllers or synchronization with other components. When the shutter is open, the atoms move through the aperture and continue their trajectory along the predetermined path. When closed, the shuter blocks the passage of atoms, preventing them from reaching the detection or interaction zone.

[0049] In an example, a rotational feedthrough transmit rotational motion or signals across a sealed boundary. Rotational feedthrough can be a pneumatic feedthrough, hydraulic feedthrough, vacuum feedthrough, electric slip ring feedthrough or the like. The primary function of a rotary feedthrough in an atomic beam oven is to provide controlled rotational motion to the oven's aperture or nozzle. Rotational feedthroughs in atomic beam ovens must offer precise angular control to regulate the opening and closing of the oven's aperture. This angular control is critical for producing a well-defined and stable atomic beam. Rotational feedthroughs employ sealing mechanisms such as ferrofluidic seals or labyrinth seals to prevent the leakage of the vacuum and ensure a clean and controlled release of atoms.

[0050] In an embodiment, the one or more alkali to alkaline earth metals may be heated at a specific temperature to produce the atomic beam in a gaseous form inside the cylindrical cavity 102 of the atom source, and the one or more alkali to alkaline earth metals may be emited through the microchannel arrays 106 in a collimated form.

[0051] In an embodiment, the atom source may include any of the Strontium, Rubidium, alkali metal, or alkaline earth metals.

[0052] In an embodiment, the atomic beam oven may be connected in the form of a source to an apparatus (cold atomic chamber / science chamber) 120. In an example, the science chamber may be the one used for an optical clock, atom interferometer or apparatus for a Bose-Einstein Condensate Experiment. The apparatus may be used for applications such as quantum sensors, quantum computing, and experiments related to the cooling and trapping of atoms.

[0053] In an example, the core principle behind optical clocks involves utilizing optical transitions, where electrons jump between energy levels at frequencies in the optical or nearinfrared range. The transition frequency is incredibly high, allowing for more oscillations per unit of time and consequently enabling a more precise measurement of time intervals. The element of choice in optical clocks is often a single trapped ion or a group of ultracold atoms. In a traditional atomic clock, the microwave transition corresponds to the hyperfine splittingof atomic energy levels. In optical clocks, the electronic transitions involve higher energy levels, which are more sensitive to relativistic effects and gravitational time dilation.

[0054] In an example, an atom interferometer is an interferometer which uses the wave character of atoms and measure the difference in phase between atomic matter waves along different paths. The interferometer splits a wave into two or more paths, then recombines the waves after interaction along one of the paths. Atom interferometer uses center of mass matter waves with short De Broglie wavelength. Atom interferometers are used for gravitational measurements, inertial navigation, quantum sensors, and timekeeping.

[0055] In an example, the Bose-Einstein Condensate Experiment involved cooling a dilute gas of alkali metal atoms, typically rubidium or sodium, to temperatures within a few billionths of a degree above absolute zero using a combination of laser cooling and evaporative cooling techniques. Laser cooling involves slowing down atoms using laser beams, while evaporative cooling removes the hottest atoms from the gas cloud, gradually lowering the overall temperature. As the temperature approached the critical point the atoms ceased to behave as individual particles and, instead, formed a single quantum entity - the Bose-Einstein Condensate. This phase transition is akin to the condensation of water vapor into a liquid state but occurs at temperatures close to absolute zero. One of the most important properties of a BEC is its superfluidity7- the ability to flow without dissipating energy. This phenomenon results from the coherent nature of the condensate, where all the particles are in the same quantum state, allowing them to move as a single entity7. Another property of BECs is their coherence in terms of phase. The atoms making up the condensate share the same quantum phase, akin to the synchronized motion of a superfluid. This coherence is a manifestation of the wave nature of particles at the quantum level and has paved the way for applications in precision measurements and interferometry.

[0056] In an embodiment, the emitted atoms from the atomic beam oven may be allowed to travel through a Zeeman slower 118 to generate an inhomogeneous magnetic field to compensate for the variation of the Doppler shift of atoms during the slowing dynamics shifting the energy levels of the atoms. In an example, a Zeeman slower is an instrument to slow and cool a beam of hot atoms speeds of several meters per second and temperatures below a kelvin. For example, in the case of strontium, a resonant laser beam of 461 nm of 10 mW power along the Zeeman axis to slow down the velocity of atoms from 100 m / s to 10 m / s. The cooled down atoms may be trapped using a technique called magneto optical trap 122 including three laser beams and a magnetic quadrupole field with a magnetic field gradient.

[0057] The process begins with a collimated atomic beam produced by an oven or another source. The atomic beam is then exposed to a magnetic field, typically created using a set of coils or permanent magnets. The magnetic field is carefully tuned to match the Zeeman shifts of the atomic transition, allowing for efficient slowing of the atoms. By carefully adjusting the magnetic field strength along the direction of the atomic beam, the Zeeman slower ensures that tire atoms experience a magnetic field whose strength matches their velocity. As a result, the Zeeman effect causes the absorption of photons by the atoms, leading to a transfer of momentum and, consequently, a reduction in the atom's velocity.

[0058] To achieve optimal deceleration, the Zeeman slower is typically divided into three main regions: the capture region, the slowing region, and the deceleration region. In the capture region, the magnetic field is strong enough to capture and guide the incoming atomic beam. As the atoms progress through the slowing region, the magnetic field strength is carefully tuned to reduce the atoms' velocity. Finally, in the deceleration region, the magnetic field weakens further to prevent excessive heating of the slowed atomic ensemble. In conjunction with the magnetic field, laser beams are employed to induce transitions between the Zeeman-split atomic levels. These laser beams are carefully tuned to match the frequency of the Zeeman-shifted atomic transitions, ensuring efficient absorption and emission of photons. The cooling process relies on the transfer of momentum between the laser photons and the decelerating atoms. The combination of magnetic fields and laser cooling allows the Zeeman slower to achieve significant reductions in the velocity of the atomic beam.

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, the atomic beam oven may be constructed in a cylindrical shape, more specifically L-shape. The material for the atomic beam oven may be stainless steel 304L and may be welded on a blank flange of DN35CF-DN40CF. The atomic beam oven may be used from room temperature to over 550°C operating temperature for Strontium atoms.

[0060] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary representation of a blank flange of the proposed atomic beam oven, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 2, in an exemplary embodiment, a blank flange 104 clamped onto the cylindrical cavity 102 of the atomic beam oven may include an element 124 functioning as an edge of a knife and may be configured to seal the walls of the atomic beam oven. The microchannel arrays 106 may be arranged in a hexagonal pattern to reach at the highest possible packing fraction. The microchannel arrays 106 located towards the peripherymay be drilled at an angle in relation to the central drills on the blank flange 104 to enhance the collimation of the atomic beam.

[0062] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary representation of a sample material used in the proposed atomic beam oven, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 3, in an exemplary representation, a sample material Strontium may be provided, however, the sample material may be any alkali or alkaline earth metal. The sample material may be heated at a particular temperature that may be formed into a gaseous form inside the cylindrical cavity 102 to produce more continuous and / or stable emission of atoms. The atoms may move out through the microchannel arrays 106 in a collimated form which may further be collimated using a differential pumping tube 116 towards the apparatus. The differential pumping tube 116 may be used to maintain the pressure between the atomic beam oven and the apparatus.

[0064] In an example, a differential pumping tube facilitates the creation and maintenance of ultra-high vacuum conditions necessary for the precise manipulation of atomic beams in the atomic beam oven and serves as the conduit between the high-pressure environment of the atomic beam source, typically the crucible within the oven, and the ultra-high vacuum region of the experimental chamber. Its primary function is to efficiently transfer the generated atomic beam from the source to the experimental area, while simultaneously preventing the backflow of gas molecules into the high-pressure region. The tube typically consists of two ends: one connected to the high-pressure atomic beam source, and the other linked to the ultra-high vacuum region where the experiment takes place. As atoms are evaporated from the source and form an atomic beam, the differential pumping tube provides a controlled pathway for this beam to travel towards the experimental chamber. The tube is designed to allow the atoms to flow smoothly while preventing the influx of gas molecules from the surrounding environment.The differential pumping tubes are typically made of materials that are compatible with the vacuum environment, often stainless steel or other materials with low outgassing rates. Outgassing is the release of trapped gases from a material, which can compromise the vacuum conditions.

[0065] Thus, the present disclosure overcomes the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing techniques, and provide an efficient solution that has the capacity to generate a controlled and uninterrupted supply of atoms, without any blockage or clogging of the oven with provision of better collimation and atomic flux of atoms.

[0066] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0067] The present disclosure provides an atomic beam oven for efficient generation of a stable and collimated atomic flux by incorporating a cylindrical cavity for atom sources containing alkali to alkaline earth metals. This allows for precise control and utilization of specific atomic elements in scientific experiments including atomic sensors, and quantum simulators.

[0068] The present disclosure provides an atomic beam oven with heating element distributed around a cylindrical body 104 to maintain a uniform temperature gradient between the hot and cold ends. This prevents clogging issues, ensures a consistent effusive atomic beam, and enhance the overall operational efficiency and lifetime of the oven.

[0069] The present disclosure provides an atomic beam oven with an arrangement of microchannel arrays in a hexagonal pattern on a separate blank flange, clamped onto the cylindrical cavity through a gasket to facilitate an optimized packing fraction and distribution of atomic flux. This hexagonal pattern minimizes divergence, contributing to improved collimation of the atomic beam.

[0070] The present disclosure provides an atomic beam with the inclusion of a single heater connected to a microdrill cylinder to allow for precise control over the temperature gradient along the body of the cylindrical cavity. This enhances the adaptability of the oven to different experimental conditions and contributes to its longevity .

[0071] The present disclosure provides an atomic beam oven with a connection of the oven to a vacuum pump ensuring that a low-pressure environment is maintained inside the cavity. This is vital for creating optimal experimental conditions, preventing vacuum leakage, and improving the overall performance and reliability of tire atomic beam oven.

[0072] Hie present disclosure provides an atomic beam oven with an atomic beam shutter controlled through a rotational feedthrough that provides a mechanism to regulate the outflow of the atomic beam enhancing experimental control and precision.

Claims

We Claim:

1. An atomic beam oven (100), said oven (100) comprising: a cylindrical cavity (102) configured to store an atom source, wherein the atom source comprises one or more alkali or alkaline earth atoms;A single heating element distributed around the body of the cylindrical cavity (104) to heat the atom source and maintain a uniform temperature gradient between a hot end and cold end of the body;An array of micro drilled holes (106) arranged in a hexagonal pattern on a separate blank flange (104) clamped onto the cylindrical cavity (102) through a gasket secured by bolts and nuts (108), wherein the heating of the atom source by the heating element generates a stabilized flux of an outgoing effusive atomic beam from the atom source through an outlet (110).

2. The oven (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microchannel arrays (106) may be inclined at the periphery on the blank flange (104) in relation to a set of central drills.

3. The oven (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the oven further comprises a single heater connected to a microdrill cylinder to maintain the uniform temperature gradient along the body of the cylindrical cavity (102) due to uniform thermal conduction avoiding cold points.

4. The oven (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the heating element is configured to heat the atom source, at a lower temperature near the cylindrical storage (102) of atoms than the temperature at the hot end of the body of the cylindrical cavity near the microchannel arrays (106).

5. The oven (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the oven (100) is connected to a vacuum pump to maintain low pressure inside the oven (100).

6. The oven (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein an atomic beam shutter is provided through a rotational feedthrough to regulate the outflow of the atomic beam.

7. The oven (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more alkali to alkaline earth metals are heated at a specific temperature to produce the atomic beam in a gaseous form inside the cylindrical cavity (102), and the one or more alkali to alkaline earth metals are emitted through the microchannel arrays (106) in a collimated form.

8. The oven (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the atom source comprises any of strontium, rubidium, alkali metal, or alkaline earth metals.

Images