Classical dynamical localization in a strongly driven two-mode mechanical system

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates dynamical localization in a strongly driven two-mode optomechanical system, enabling control over mechanical transport and inducing a conductor-insulator transition, with potential applications in coherent mechanical transport control.

Contribution

It presents the first experimental realization of dynamical localization in a coupled two-mode mechanical system using optomechanical coupling.

Findings

Mechanical oscillations become localized due to dynamical effects.

A conductor-to-insulator-like transition is achieved.

Localization is controlled by specific driving parameters.

Abstract

We report the realization of dynamical localization in a strongly driven two-mode optomechanical system consisting of two coupled cantilevers. Due to the coupling, mechanical oscillations can transport between the cantilevers. However, by placing one of the cantilevers inside a harmonically oscillating optical trap, we demonstrate that mechanical oscillations become tightly bounded to the isolated cantilevers rather than propagate away at specific driving parameters. The effect of dynamical localization is employed to induce a conductor-to-insulator-like transition in the two-mode mechanical system, which opens up new possibilities for further coherent control of transport phenomena in coupled-mechanical-resonator based lattice.