Atomtronic multiterminal Aharonov-Bohm interferometer

We study a multifunctional device for cold atoms consisting of a three-terminal ring circuit pierced by a synthetic magnetic flux, where the ring can be continuous or discretized. The flux controls the atomic current through the ring via the Aharonov-Bohm effect. Our device shows a flux-induced transition of reflections from an Andreev-like negative density to positive density. Further, the flux can direct the atomic current into specific output ports, realizing a flexible nonreciprocal switch to connect multiple atomic systems or sense rotations. By changing the flux linearly in time, we convert constant matter wave currents into an ac modulated current. This effect can be used to realize an atomic frequency generator and study fundamental problems related to the Aharonov-Bohm effect. We experimentally demonstrate Bose-Einstein condensation into the light-shaped optical potential of the three-terminal ring. Our work opens up the possibility of atomtronic devices for practical applications in quantum technologies.

Automated summary

We have studied a multifunctional device for cold atoms, which is composed of a three-terminal ring circuit with a synthetic magnetic flux. The device exhibits a flux-induced transition of reflections from negative density to positive density, and can also direct the atomic current into specific output ports, enabling flexible nonreciprocal switching. By changing the flux linearly in time, constant matter wave currents can be converted into AC modulated currents. Our work demonstrates the potential for using atomtronic devices in practical applications in quantum technologies.