Three-dimensional effects in "atom diodes": atom-optical devices for one-way motion

The ``atom diode'' is a laser device that lets the ground state atom pass in one direction but not in the opposite direction. We examine three-dimensional effects of that device for arbitrary atomic incidence angles on flat laser sheets and set breakdown limiting angles and velocities. It is found that a correct diodic behavior independent of the incident angle can be obtained with blue detuned lasers.