Algorithmic Discovery of Casimir-Polder Forces: Repulsion in the Ground State

We present a general-purpose algorithm for automatic production of a structure inducing a desired Casimir-Polder force and develop a geometry that exerts a repulsion on a ground-state atom. The results are reminiscent of the ring-like geometries previously used to induce repulsion, but with some new features and-importantly-discovered completely independently of any input from the user. This represents a powerful new, to the best of our knowledge, paradigm in the study of atom-surface forces: instead of the user testing various geometries against a desired figure of merit, the goal can be specified, and then an appropriate geometry can be created automatically.