Topological routing in Chern insulators

TL;DR

This paper proposes a topological routing method using coupled Chern insulator regions, enabling controllable, robust, and reconfigurable energy flow in optical systems through magnetic field and frequency adjustments.

Contribution

It introduces a novel routing approach based on coupled Haldane systems in Chern insulators, allowing dynamic control of energy directionality.

Findings

Energy flow can be steered completely left or right.

Flow splitting is achievable with adjustable parameters.

The system offers potential for robust optical transmission components.

Abstract

Chern insulator systems are realizable in numerous physical systems and can support robust nonreciprocal transmission of energy. A routing functionality constructed from two counter-oriented Chern insulator regions, using coupled Haldane type systems is proposed. By adjusting the strength of a magnetic field and the frequency of an antenna source, it possible to steer the flow of energy: completely to the left, completely to the right, or split. Alternatively, two sources can be used to direct the flow of energy. This formulation has the potential to serve as a robust and reconfigurable component in optical transmission.