Feshbach projection formalism for open quantum systems

Abstract

We provide a new approach to open quantum systems which is based on the Feshbach projection method in an appropriate Hilbert space. Instead of looking for a master equation for the dynamical map acting in the space of density operators we provide the corresponding equation for the evolution in the Hilbert space of the system. Its solution enables one to construct a legitimate quantum evolution (completely positive and trace preserving). The big advantage of this approach is the ability of performing a consistent approximation which creates notorious problems in the standard Nakajima-Zwanzig approach. The new scheme is illustrated by well known spin-boson model beyond rotating wave approximation.