Nonlinear dynamics in superlattices driven by high frequency ac-fields

We investigate the dynamical processes taking place in nanodevices driven by high-frequency electromagnetic fields. We want to elucidate the role of different mechanisms that could lead to loss of quantum coherence. Our results show how the dephasing effects of disorder that destroy after some periods coherent oscillations, such as Rabi oscillations, can be overestimated if we do not consider the electron-electron interactions that can reduce dramatically the decoherence effects of the structural imperfections. Experimental conditions for the observation of the predicted effects are discussed.Comment: REVTEX (8 pages) and 4 figures (Postscript

Are the Secrecy Order Compensation Provisions of the Patent Act Constitutional Under the Fifth Amendment?

The secrecy order provisions of the Patent Act\u27 raise a number of issues under the U.S. Constitution. The primary focus of this note is on the Fifth Amendment issues raised by the Invention Secrecy Act

Heat pipes for wing leading edges of hypersonic vehicles

Wing leading edge heat pipes were conceptually designed for three types of vehicle: an entry research vehicle, aero-space plane, and advanced shuttle. A full scale, internally instrumented sodium/Hastelloy X heat pipe was successfully designed and fabricated for the advanced shuttle application. The 69.4 inch long heat pipe reduces peak leading edge temperatures from 3500 F to 1800 F. It is internally instrumented with thermocouples and pressure transducers to measure sodium vapor qualities. Large thermal gradients and consequently large thermal stresses, which have the potential of limiting heat pipe life, were predicted to occur during startup. A test stand and test plan were developed for subsequent testing of this heat pipe. Heat pipe manufacturing technology was advanced during this program, including the development of an innovative technique for wick installation