Quantum-based Mechanical Force Realization in Pico-Newton Range
arXiv:cond-mat/0606022 · doi:10.1063/1.2591398
Abstract
We propose mechanical force realization based on flux quantization in the pico-Newton range. By controlling the number of flux quantum in a superconducting annulus, a force can be created as integer multiples of a constant step. For a 50 nm-thick Nb annulus with the inner and outer radii of 5 $μ$m and 10 $μ$m, respectively, and the field gradient of 10 T/m the force step is estimated to be 184 fN. The stability against thermal fluctuations is also addressed.
5 pages; 4 figures