Development of high voltage - High current switches Final report

Envelope, electrode, and trigger design for high voltage high current switc

Mapping the Berry Curvature from Semiclassical Dynamics in Optical Lattices

We propose a general method by which experiments on ultracold gases can be used to determine the topological properties of the energy bands of optical lattices, as represented by the map of the Berry curvature across the Brillouin zone. The Berry curvature modifies the semiclassical dynamics and hence the trajectory of a wave packet undergoing Bloch oscillations. However, in two dimensions these trajectories may be complicated Lissajous-like figures, making it difficult to extract the effects of Berry curvature in general. We propose how this can be done using a "time-reversal" protocol. This compares the velocity of a wave packet under positive and negative external force, and allows a clean measurement of the Berry curvature over the Brillouin zone. We discuss how this protocol may be implemented and explore the semiclassical dynamics for three specific systems: the asymmetric hexagonal lattice, and two "optical flux" lattices in which the Chern number is nonzero. Finally, we discuss general experimental considerations for observing Berry curvature effects in ultracold gases.Comment: 12 page

Personal loss, memory and family: an exploration of family photographs and objects after a bereavement

This research project explores photographs and domestic objects with 12 adult participants, including myself as participant-researcher, after the death of a member of the family. Using ethnographic and autoethnographic approaches, alongside methods such as recordings and documentary photographs, supported the exploration of this sensitive subject. Adults were interviewed at their homes in Kent, discussing memories and reflections on the deceased as well as themselves through self-selected photographs and objects. Core themes emerged including; women continuing to act as curator of the family image and archive after a death, a willingness by participants to discuss and reflect on the subject of death, often seen as a taboo. It highlighted that in family fractures and estrangement and then a death, participants retained items from the family member to which they had been estranged. A key finding of the research was the beneficial nature in holding space and using photographs and objects in which to remember the deceased, as tools to support reflections on self-identity after an emotionally challenging life event as a death, and through using creative methods such as writing and photography. The research is explored and illustrated through text and photographs contained in the thesis and a wider selection of the documentary photographs in the accompanying photobook. A selection of documentary photographs were exhibited as part of Medway Open Studios 2018 and 2019, as well as Fusion19 at the Daphne Oram building Canterbury Christ Church University which can be seen in the appendices and facilitated ongoing conversations around the subject of death in non-traditional spaces

Combining representations in working memory: A brief report

A task combining both digit and Corsi memory tests was administered to a group of 75 children. The task is shown to share variance with standardized reading and maths attainments, even after partialling out performance on component tasks separately assessed. The emergent task property may reflect coordination skills, although several different refinements can be made to this general conclusion

Mask breathing system for the Apollo command module

Breathing mask for Apollo command module spacecre