Boosting Topological Zero Modes Using Elastomer Waveguide Arrays

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates the use of elastomer waveguide arrays based on the Su-Schrieffer-Heeger model to create and control topologically protected modes, with strain tuning enabling dynamic modulation of these modes.

Contribution

It introduces a novel elastomer waveguide platform for topological photonics and shows strain as an effective tuning parameter for topological states.

Findings

Observation of delocalized optical fields at superluminal defect velocities

Strain modulation effectively alters the coupling coefficients in the lattice

Platform enables rapid prototyping of topological photonic devices

Abstract

We employ the Su-Schrieffer-Heeger model in elastic polymer waveguide arrays to design and realize travelling topologically protected modes. The observed delocalization of the optical field for superluminal defect velocities agrees well with theoretical descriptions. We apply mechanical strain to modulate the lattices' coupling coefficient. This work demonstrates a novel platform for rapid prototyping of topological photonic devices and establishes strain-tuning as a viable design parameter for topological waveguide arrays.