Observation of topological edge modes via smart patterning

In this talk we present a novel quasi-periodic system supporting topological edge modes made of magnetically coupled mechanical spinners. The system is patterned such that it possesses a naturally multi-gapped phonon spectrum where energy cannot propagate. This behavior occurs solely due to the system’s patterning, no fine tuning of the system is required. Typically, fine tuning in periodic systems is required to break topological symmetry classes; however, due to its unique structure, the reported pattern displays topological behavior. We present experimental results that demonstrate the mapping of chiral bands within the large gaps of the system’s phonon spectrum by scanning over phason shifts in the pattern. By varying the phason, bulk behavior remains unchanged; however, the edge states shift connecting two bulks bands they reside in. This study demonstrates the robust nature of the edge states in the reported quasi-periodic system and suggests that they are novel platforms for studying these unique properties.