An approximation formula for the Bloch-Siegert shift of the Rabi model

Abstract

So far the Bloch-Siegert shift of the Rabi model has only been calculated numerically or by means of perturbation theory valid in either the weak or strong driving regime only. Recently Yan, L\"u, and Zheng [Phys.~Rev.~A {\bf 91}, 053834 (2015)] showed how to reduce the problem to solving a system of three nonlinear equations. Here, we pursue an alternative approach based on a perturbation expansion extrapolation technique. We are thus able to derive an explicit analytical approximation formula for the Bloch-Siegert shift of the Rabi model which is valid for all parameter regimes from weak to strong driving. Comparison with numerically exact results reveals an excellent agreement over the entire driving-strength range.