Quantum-spin-Hall topological insulator in a spring-mass system

Abstract

It is proposed that a lattice, with constituent masses and spring constants, may be considered as a model system for topological matter. For instance, a relative variation of the inter- and intra-unit cell spring constants can be used to create, tune, and invert band structure. Such an aspect is obtained while preserving time reversal symmetry, and consequently emulates the quantum spin Hall effect. The modal displacement fields of the mass-spring lattice were superposed so to yield pseudospin fields, with positive or negative group velocity. Considering that harmonic oscillators are the basis of classical and quantum excitations over a range of physical systems, the spring-mass system yields further insight into the constituents and possible utility of topological material.

Keywords

• topological insulator
• elastic waveguides
• quantum spin Hall effect
• acoustic metamaterials