Unidirectional edge modes in time-modulated metamaterials

Abstract

We prove the possibility of achieving unidirectional edge modes in time-modulated supercell structures. Such finite structures consist of two trimers repeated periodically. Because of their symmetry, they admit degenerate edge eigenspaces. When the trimers are time-modulated with two opposite orientations, the degenerate eigenspace splits into two one-dimensional eigenspaces described by an analytical formula, each corresponds to a mode which is localized at one edge of the structure. Our results on the localization and stability of these edge modes with respect to fluctuations in the time-modulation amplitude are illustrated by several numerical simulations.