Optical Thouless pumping transport and nonlinear switching in a topological low-dimensional discrete nematic liquid crystal array

We theoretically investigate a Thouless pumping scheme in the one-dimensional topological Su-SchriefferHeeger (SSH) model for single and multiple band-gap systems when implemented in a discrete nematic liquid crystal arrangement. For an electrically controlled SSH waveguide array, we numerically demonstrate edge-toedge light transport at low power levels. On the other hand, at higher powers, the transport is frustrated by light-induced nonlinear defect states, giving rise to robust all-optical switching.

Automated summary

We theoretically investigate a Thouless pumping scheme in the one-dimensional topological Su-Schrieffer-Heeger (SSH) model when implemented in a discrete nematic liquid crystal arrangement. Numerical results show that for an electrically controlled SSH waveguide array, edge-to-edge light transport can be achieved at low power levels. However, at higher powers, the transport is frustrated by light-induced nonlinear defect states, leading to robust all-optical switching.