Generalized Su-Schrieffer-Heeger model in one dimensional optomechanical arrays

TL;DR

This paper introduces a tunable topological model in one-dimensional optomechanical arrays, demonstrating phase transitions, edge states, and adiabatic pumping, with potential applications in controlling photon and phonon transport.

Contribution

It presents a generalized SSH model implemented in optomechanical arrays, revealing new topological phases and edge states controlled by external driving fields.

Findings

Identifies three phases, including two topological and one trivial.

Demonstrates edge states can be created and manipulated.

Shows adiabatic pumping of edge states along the array.

Abstract

We propose an implementation of a generalized Su-Schrieffer-Heeger (SSH) model based on optomechanical arrays. The topological properties of the generalized SSH model depend on the effective optomechanical interactions enhanced by strong driving optical fields. Three phases including one trivial and two distinct topological phases are found in the generalized SSH model. The phase transition can be observed by turning the strengths and phases of the effective optomechanical interactions via adjusting the external driving fields. Moreover, four types of edge states can be created in generalized SSH model of an open chain under single-particle excitation, and the dynamical behaviors of the excitation in the open chain are related to the topological properties under the periodic boundary condition. We show that the edge states can be pumped adiabatically along the optomechanical arrays by periodically modulating the amplitude and frequency of the driving fields. The generalized SSH model based on the optomechanical arrays provides us a tunable platform to engineer topological phases for photons and phonons, which may have potential applications in controlling the transport of photons and phonons.