Quantum thermodynamics with fast driving and strong coupling via the mesoscopic leads approach

Understanding the thermodynamics of driven quantum systems strongly coupled to thermal baths is a central focus and mesoscopic physics. A variety different methodological approaches exist in literature, all with their own advantages disadvantages. The leads approach was recently generalised steady state machines has ability replicate Landauer B\"uttiker theory non-interacting limit. In this set discretised lead modes, each locally damped, provide markovian embedding for baths. work we further generalise incorporate an arbitrary time dependence system Hamiltonian. Following careful discussion calculation thermodynamic quantities illustrate power our by studying several examples finite temperature fermionic baths, replicating known results various limits. case non interacting dot show how fast driving can be used induce heat rectification.