Quantum clocks observe classical and quantum time dilation

At the intersection of quantum theory and relativity lies the possibility of a clock experiencing a superposition of proper times. We consider quantum clocks constructed from the internal degrees of relativistic particles that move through curved spacetime. The probability that one clock reads a given proper time conditioned on another clock reading a different proper time is derived. From this conditional probability distribution, it is shown that when the center-of-mass of these clocks move in localized momentum wave packets they observe classical time dilation. We then illustrate a quantum correction to the time dilation observed by a clock moving in a superposition of localized momentum wave packets that has the potential to be observed in experiment. The Helstrom-Holevo lower bound is used to derive a proper time-energy/mass uncertainty relation.Comment: Updated to match published versio

Quantum metrology for relativistic quantum fields

In quantum metrology quantum properties such as squeezing and entanglement are exploited in the design of a new generation of clocks, sensors and other measurement devices that can outperform their classical counterparts. Applications of great technological relevance lie in the precise measurement of parameters which play a central role in relativity, such as proper accelerations, relative distances, time and gravitational field strengths. In this paper we generalise recently introduced techniques to estimate physical quantities within quantum field theory in flat and curved space-time. We consider a bosonic quantum field that undergoes a generic transformation, which encodes the parameter to be estimated. We present analytical formulas for optimal precision bounds on the estimation of small parameters in terms of Bogoliubov coefficients for single mode and two-mode Gaussian channels.Comment: Ivette Fuentes previously published as I. Fuentes-Guridi and I. Fuentes-Schulle

Communication between inertial observers with partially correlated reference frames

In quantum communication protocols the existence of a shared reference frame between two spatially separated parties is normally presumed. However, in many practical situations we are faced with the problem of misaligned reference frames. In this paper, we study communication between two inertial observers who have partial knowledge about the Lorentz transformation that relates their frames of reference. Since every Lorentz transformation can be decomposed into a pure boost followed by a rotation, we begin by analysing the effects on communication when the parties have partial knowledge about the transformation relating their frames, when the transformation is either a rotation or pure boost. This then enables us to investigate how the efficiency of communication is affected due to partially correlated inertial reference frames related by an arbitrary Lorentz transformation. Furthermore, we show how the results of previous studies where reference frames are completely uncorrelated are recovered from our results in appropriate limits.Comment: 9 pages, 3 figures, typos corrected, figures update

Comparison between contact and immersion method in ultrasonic stress measurement of welded stainless steel plates

This study presents a comparison between contact and immersion ultrasonic method to measure welding residual stress of austen-itic stainless steel plates (AISI 304L). Longitudinal critically refracted (LCR) waves are employed to measure the residual stresses. By using contact and immersion transducers, a 3D distribution of longitudinal residual stress for the entire of the welded plate is presented. A finite-element model of welding process, which is validated by the hole-drilling method, is used to verify the ultrasonic results. The results show no considerable differences between using contact or immersion transducers in ultrasonic stress measurement of stainless steel plates; however, some practical considerations are mentioned

Nondestructive evaluation of welding residual stresses in austenitic stainless steel plates

This article investigates the nondestructive capability of ultrasonic waves in residual stress evaluation of austenitic stainless steel plates (AISI 304L). Longitudinal critically refracted (LCR) waves are employed to measure the residual stresses. Measuring the acoustoelastic constant through the tensile test is eliminated on the main investigated sample to keep it intact. Another welded plate with the same welding specification, geometry, thickness, and the same material is used to extract tensile test samples. To find the acoustoelastic constant of the heat affected zone (HAZ), a metallographic investigation is done to produce microstructure similar to that of the HAZ in a tensile test sample. A finite element model of welding process, which is validated by hole-drilling method, is used to verify the ultrasonic results. The results show good agreement between finite element and ultrasonic stress measurements which is accomplished nondestructively