Localizing Elastic Edge Waves via the Topological Rainbow Effect

Abstract

We combine two different fields, topological physics and graded metamaterials, to design a topological metasurface to control and redirect elastic waves. We strategically design a two-dimensional crystalline perforated elastic plate, using a square lattice, that hosts symmetry-induced topological edge states. By concurrently allowing the elastic substrate to spatially vary in depth, we are able to convert the incident slow wave into a series of robust modes, with differing envelope modulations. This adiabatic transition localizes the incoming energy into a concentrated region where it can then be damped or extracted. For larger transitions, different behavior is observed; the incoming energy propagates along the interface before being partitioned into two disparate chiral beams. This ``topological rainbow'' effect leverages two main concepts, namely the quantum valley Hall effect and the rainbow effect usually associated with electromagnetic metamaterials. The topological rainbow effect transcends specific physical systems; hence, the phenomena we describe can be transposed to other wave physics. Because of the directional tunability of the elastic energy by geometry, our results have potential for applications such as switches, filters, and energy harvesters.