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Weixuan Zhang

Publications and source records attributed to Weixuan Zhang.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

A Non-Abelian Route to Z2 Non-Hermitian Skin Effects

The non-Hermitian skin effect (NHSE), characterized by extensive boundary accumulation of eigenstates under open boundary conditions, has emerged as a central phenomenon in non-Hermitian physics. Conventionally, the NHSE arises from either non-reciprocal couplings or onsite gain and loss combined with synthetic gauge fields. Existing studies, however, have been largely confined to frameworks with Abelian-coupling, leaving the role of non-Abelian couplings essentially unexplored. Here, we demonstrate that non-Abelian-couplings can generate the NHSE, giving rise to a time-reversal-symmetry-protected Z2 skin effect with pseudospin-dependent boundary localization and dynamical pseudospin separation. Experimentally, we implement a representative four-level model using a programmable topolectrical circuit and directly observe both the predicted NHSE and the boundary-induced pseudospin-inversion reflection. Our work establishes a fundamental link between non-Abelian coupling and non-Hermitian topology, opening new avenues for realizing non-reciprocity-free topological materials and devices.

physics.optics

Microwave vortex beam lasing via photonic time crystals

Microwave lasing carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM) holds significant potential for advanced applications in fields such as high-capacity communications, precision sensing, and radar imaging. However, conventional approaches to masers fail to produce emission with embedded OAM. The recent emergence of photonic time crystals (PTCs)-artificially structured media with periodically varying electromagnetic properties in time-offers a paradigm shift toward resonance-free lasing without the need for gain media. Yet, pioneering PTC designs have been based on three-dimensional bulk structures, which lack a surface-emitting configuration, and do not possess the capability to modulate OAM, thus hindering the realization of surface-emitted PTC masing that carries OAM. Here, we report the first experimental demonstration of non-resonant, gain medium-free, and surface-emitted microwave vortex beam lasing OAM using ring-shaped PTCs. By developing a multiplier-driven time-varying metamaterial that achieves over 100% equivalent permittivity modulation depth, we establish momentum bandgaps (k gaps) with sufficient bandwidth to overcome intrinsic losses and enable self-sustained coherent microwave amplification. Furthermore, space-time modulation induces non-reciprocity between clockwise and counterclockwise k gap modes within the circularly symmetric PTC structure, facilitating the selective generation of microwave lasing carrying OAM-a capability beyond the reach of conventional maser technologies. Our work bridges PTC physics with coherent OAM-carrying microwave emission, establishing a transformative platform for next-generation wireless communications, advanced sensing systems, and OAM-based technologies.

physics.optics

Quasi-bound flat bands in the continuum

Bound states in the continuum (BICs) are widely known spatially localized states experimentally implemented as quasi-BICs. Although they emerged as a promising solution for achieving high-quality resonances in photonic structures, quasi-BICs are confined to a very narrow range in k-space and are highly sensitive to disorder. Here, we introduce quasi-bound flat bands in the continuum (quasi-BFICs), a class of optical states where Bloch modes are found within a photonic flat band, leading to a quasi-BIC behaviour at every k-point above the light line. We analytically and numerically demonstrate the origin of quasi-BFICs from the disorder-induced band folding, mode localization and multiple topological charges in k-space, and identify the optimal strength of structural disorder to maximise their generation probability. Angle-resolved transmission and Q-factor measurements confirm the existence of quasi-BFICs, opening new avenues for designing devices with high quality factor and wide-angle response, presenting a counterintuitive strategy that leverages disorder to enhance optical performance.

physics.optics

Engineering topological states and quantum-inspired information processing using classical circuits

Based on the correspondence between circuit Laplacian and Schrodinger equation, recent investigations have shown that classical electric circuits can be used to simulate various topological physics and the Schrodinger's equation. Furthermore, a series of quantum-inspired information processing have been implemented by using classical electric circuit networks. In this review, we begin by analyzing the similarity between circuit Laplacian and lattice Hamiltonian, introducing topological physics based on classical circuits. Subsequently, we provide reviews of the research progress in quantum-inspired information processing based on the electric circuit, including discussions of topological quantum computing with classical circuits, quantum walk based on classical circuits, quantum combinational logics based on classical circuits, electric-circuit realization of fast quantum search, implementing unitary transforms and so on.

cond-mat.mes-hall

Non-Hermitian global synchronization

Synchronization of coupled nonlinear oscillators is a prevalent phenomenon in natural systems and can play important roles in various fields of modern science, such as laser arrays and electric networks. However, achieving robust global synchronization has always been a significant challenge due to its extreme susceptibility to initial conditions and structural perturbations. Here, we present a novel approach to achieve robust global synchronization by manipulating the interplay between non-Hermitian physics and nonlinear dynamics. Remarkably, the initial-state-independent non-Hermitian skin and topological global synchronization are proposed, exhibiting diverse anomalous effects such as the enlarged-size triggered non-Hermitian global synchronization and nonlinear skin states-dominated global synchronization. To validate our findings, we design and fabricate nonlinear topoelectrical circuits for experimental observation of non-Hermitian global synchronization. Our work opens up a promising avenue for establishing resilient global synchronization with potential applications in constructing high-radiance laser arrays and topologically synchronized networks.

nlin.PS

Topolectrical space-time circuits

Topolectrical circuits have emerged as a pivotal platform for realizing static topological states that are challenging to construct in other systems, facilitating the design of robust circuit devices. In addition to spatial dimensionality, synergistic engineering of both temporal and spatial degrees in circuit networks holds tremendous potential across diverse technologies, such as wireless communications, non-reciprocal electronics and dynamic signal controls with exotic space-time topology. However, the realization of space-time modulated circuit networks is still lacking due to the necessity for flexible modulation of node connections in both spatial and temporal domains. Here, we propose a new class of topolectrical circuits, referred to as topolectrical space-time circuits, to bridge this gap. By designing and applying a novel time-varying circuit element controlled by external voltages, we can construct circuit networks exhibiting discrete space-time translational symmetries in any dimensionality, where the circuit dynamical equation is in the same form with time-dependent Schrodinger equation. Through the implementation of topolectrical space-time circuits, three distinct types of topological space-time crystals are experimentally demonstrated, including the (1+1)-dimensional topological space-time crystal with midgap edge modes, (2+1)-dimensional topological space-time crystal with chiral edge states, and (3+1)-dimensional Weyl space-time semimetals. Our work establishes a solid foundation for the exploration of intricate space-time topological phenomena and holds potential applications in the field of dynamically manipulating electronic signals with unique space-time topology

cond-mat.mes-hall

Bloch oscillations of Fibonacci anyons

Non-Abelian anyons, which correspond to collective excitations possessing multiple fusion channels and noncommuting braiding statistics, serve as the fundamental constituents for topological quantum computation. Here, we reveal the exotic Bloch oscillations (BOs) induced by non-Abelian fusion of Fibonacci anyons. It is shown that the interplay between fusion-dependent internal energy levels and external forces can induce BOs and Bloch-Zener oscillations (BZOs) of coupled fusion degrees with varying periods. In this case, the golden ratio of the fusion matrix can be determined by the period of BOs or BZOs in conjunction with external forces, giving rise to an effective way to unravel non-Abelian fusion. Furthermore, we experimentally simulate nonAbelian fusion BOs by mapping Schrodinger equation of two Fibonacci anyons onto dynamical equation of electric circuits. Through the measurement of impedance spectra and voltage evolution, both fusion-dependent BZOs and BOs are simulated. Our findings establish a connection between BOs and non-Abelian fusion, providing a versatile platform for simulating numerous intriguing phenomena associated with non-Abelian physics.

cond-mat.mes-hall

Boundary-localized many-body bound states in the continuum

Bound states in the continuum (BICs), referring to spatially localized bound states with energies falling within the range of extended modes, have been extensively investigated in single-particle systems, leading to diverse applications in photonics, acoustics, and other classical-wave systems. Recently, there has been theoretical interest in exploring many-body BICs in interacting quantum systems, which necessitate the careful design of impurity potentials or spatial profiles of interaction. Here, we propose a type of many-body BICs localized at boundaries, which can be purely induced by the uniform onsite interaction without requiring any specific design of impurity potential or nonlocal interaction. We numerically show that three or more interacting bosons can concentrate on the boundary of a homogeneous one-dimensional lattice, which is absent at single- and twoparticle counterparts. Moreover, the eigenenergy of multi-boson bound states can embed within the continuous energy spectra of extended scattering states, thereby giving rise to interactioninduced boundary many-body BICs. Furthermore, by mapping Fock states of three and four bosons to nonlinear circuit networks, we experimentally simulate boundary many-body BICs. Our findings enrich the comprehension of correlated BICs beyond the single-particle level, and have the potential to inspire future investigations on exploring many-body BICs.

cond-mat.mes-hall

Non-Hermitian Quantum Fractals

The first quantum fractal discovered in physics is the Hofstadter butterfly. It stems from large external magnetic fields. We discover instead a new class of non-Hermitian quantum fractals (NHQFs) emerging in coupled Hatano-Nelson models on a tree lattice in absence of any fields. Based on analytic solutions, we are able to rigorously identify the self-similar recursive structures in energy spectrum and wave functions. We prove that the complex spectrum of NHQFs bears a resemblance to the Mandelbrot set in fractal theory. The self-similarity of NHQFs is rooted in the interplay between the iterative lattice configuration and non-Hermiticity. Moreover, we show that NHQFs exist in generalized non-Hermitian systems with iterative lattice structures. Our findings open a new avenue for investigating quantum fractals in non-Hermitian systems.

cond-mat.mes-hall

Hyperbolic photonic topological insulators

Topological photonics provides a new degree of freedom to robustly control electromagnetic fields. To date, most of established topological states in photonics have been employed in Euclidean space. Motivated by unique properties of hyperbolic lattices, which are regular tessellations in non-Euclidean space with a constant negative curvature, the boundarydominated hyperbolic topological states have been proposed. However, limited by highly crowded boundary resonators and complicated site couplings, the hyperbolic topological insulator has only been experimentally constructed in electric circuits. How to achieve hyperbolic photonic topological insulators is still an open question. Here, we report the experimental realization of hyperbolic photonic topological insulators using coupled ring resonators on silicon chips. Boundary-dominated one-way edge states with pseudospindependent propagation directions have been observed. Furthermore, the robustness of edge states in hyperbolic photonic topological insulators is also verified. Our findings have potential applications in the field of designing high-efficient topological photonic devices with enhanced boundary responses.

physics.optics

Soliro -- a hybrid dynamic tilt-wing aerial manipulator with minimal actuators

The ability to enter in contact with and manipulate physical objects with a flying robot enables many novel applications, such as contact inspection, painting, drilling, and sample collection. Generally, these aerial robots need more degrees of freedom than a standard quadrotor. While there is active research of over-actuated, omnidirectional MAVs and aerial manipulators as well as VTOL and hybrid platforms, the two concepts have not been combined. We address the problem of conceptualization, characterization, control, and testing of a 5DOF rotary-/fixed-wing hybrid, tilt-rotor, split tilt-wing, nearly omnidirectional aerial robot. We present an elegant solution with a minimal set of actuators and that does not need any classical control surfaces or flaps. The concept is validated in a wind tunnel study and in multiple flights with forward and backward transitions. Fixed-wing flight speeds up to 10 m/s were reached, with a power reduction of 30% as compared to rotary wing flight.

cs.RO

Grounding Description-Driven Dialogue State Trackers with Knowledge-Seeking Turns

Schema-guided dialogue state trackers can generalise to new domains without further training, yet they are sensitive to the writing style of the schemata. Augmenting the training set with human or synthetic schema paraphrases improves the model robustness to these variations but can be either costly or difficult to control. We propose to circumvent these issues by grounding the state tracking model in knowledge-seeking turns collected from the dialogue corpus as well as the schema. Including these turns in prompts during finetuning and inference leads to marked improvements in model robustness, as demonstrated by large average joint goal accuracy and schema sensitivity improvements on SGD and SGD-X.

cs.CL

Super-compact universal quantum logic gates with inversedesigned elements

Integrated quantum photonic circuit is a promising platform for the realization of quantum information processing in the future. To achieve the largescale quantum photonic circuits, the applied quantum logic gates should be as small as possible for the high-density integration on chips. Here, we report the implementation of super-compact universal quantum logic gates on silicon chips by the method of inverse design. In particular, the fabricated controlled-NOT gate and Hadamard gate are both nearly a vacuum wavelength, being the smallest optical quantum gates reported up to now. We further design the quantum circuit by cascading these fundamental gates to perform arbitrary quantum processing, where the corresponding size is about several orders smaller than that of previous quantum photonic circuits. Our study paves the way for the realization of largescale quantum photonic chips with integrated sources, and can possess important applications in the field of quantum information processes.

physics.optics

Learning to Open Doors with an Aerial Manipulator

The field of aerial manipulation has seen rapid advances, transitioning from push-and-slide tasks to interaction with articulated objects. So far, when more complex actions are performed, the motion trajectory is usually handcrafted or a result of online optimization methods like Model Predictive Control (MPC) or Model Predictive Path Integral (MPPI) control. However, these methods rely on heuristics or model simplifications to efficiently run on onboard hardware, producing results in acceptable amounts of time. Moreover, they can be sensitive to disturbances and differences between the real environment and its simulated counterpart. In this work, we propose a Reinforcement Learning (RL) approach to learn motion behaviors for a manipulation task while producing policies that are robust to disturbances and modeling errors. Specifically, we train a policy to perform a door-opening task with an Omnidirectional Micro Aerial Vehicle (OMAV). The policy is trained in a physics simulator and experiments are presented both in simulation and running onboard the real platform, investigating the simulation to real world transfer. We compare our method against a state-of-the-art MPPI solution, showing a considerable increase in robustness and speed.

cs.RO

Non-Abelian inverse Anderson transitions

Inverse Anderson transitions, where the flat-band localization is destroyed by disorder, have been wildly investigated in quantum and classical systems in the presence of Abelian gauge fields. Here, we report the first investigation on inverse Anderson transitions in the system with non-Abelian gauge fields. It is found that pseudospin-dependent localized and delocalized eigenstates coexist in the disordered non-Abelian Aharonov-Bohm cage, making inverse Anderson transitions depend on the relative phase of two internal pseudospins. Such an exotic phenomenon induced by the interplay between non-Abelian gauge fields and disorder has no Abelian analogy. Furthermore, we theoretically design and experimentally fabricate nonAbelian Aharonov-Bohm topolectrical circuits to observe the non-Abelian inverse Anderson transition. Through the direct measurements of frequency-dependent impedance responses and voltage dynamics, the pseudospin-dependent non-Abelian inverse Anderson transitions are observed. Our results establish the connection between inverse Anderson transitions and non-Abelian gauge fields, and thus comprise a new insight on the fundamental aspects of localization in disordered non-Abelian flat-band systems.

cond-mat.mes-hall

Non-Hermitian topolectrical circuit sensor with high sensitivity

Electronic sensors play important roles in various applications, such as industry and environmental monitoring, biomedical sample ingredient analysis, wireless networks and so on. However, the sensitivity and robustness of current schemes are often limited by the low quality-factors of resonators and fabrication disorders. Hence, exploring new mechanisms of the electronic sensor with a high-level sensitivity and a strong robustness is of great significance. Here, we propose a new way to design electronic sensors with superior performances based on exotic properties of non-Hermitian topological physics. Owing to the extreme boundary-sensitivity of non-Hermitian topological zero modes, the frequency shift induced by boundary perturbations can show an exponential growth trend with respect to the size of non-Hermitian topolectrical circuit sensors. Moreover, such an exponential growth sensitivity is also robust against disorders of circuit elements. Using designed non-Hermitian topolectrical circuit sensors, we further experimentally verify the ultra-sensitive identification of the distance, rotation angle, and liquid level with the designed capacitive devices. Our proposed non-Hermitian topolectrical circuit sensors can possess a wide range of applications in ultra-sensitive environmental monitoring and show an exciting prospect for nextgeneration sensing technologies.

cond-mat.mes-hall

Hyperbolic band topology with non-trivial second Chern numbers

Topological band theory establishes a standardized framework for classifying different types of topological matters. Recent investigations have shown that hyperbolic lattices in non-Euclidean space can also be characterized by hyperbolic Bloch theorem. This theory promotes the investigation of hyperbolic band topology, where hyperbolic topological band insulators protected by first Chern numbers have been proposed. Here, we report a new finding on the construction of hyperbolic topological band insulators with a vanished first Chern number but a non-trivial second Chern number. Our model possesses the non-abelian translational symmetry of {8,8} hyperbolic tiling. By engineering intercell couplings and onsite potentials of sublattices in each unit cell, the non-trivial bandgaps with quantized second Chern numbers can appear. In experiments, we fabricate two types of finite hyperbolic circuit networks with periodic boundary conditions and partially open boundary conditions to detect hyperbolic topological band insulators. Our work suggests a new way to engineer hyperbolic topological states with higher-order topological invariants.

cond-mat.mes-hall

Observation of flat-band localization and topological edge states induced by effective strong interactions in electrical circuit networks

Flat-band topologies and localizations in non-interacting systems are extensively studied in different quantum and classical-wave systems. Recently, the exploration on the novel physics of flat-band localizations and topologies in interacting systems has aroused great interest. In particular, it is theoretically shown that the strong-interaction could drive the formation of nontrivial topological flat bands, even dispersive trivial bands dominate the single-particle counterparts. However, the experimental observation of those interesting phenomena is still lacking. Here, we experimentally simulate the interaction-induced flat-band localizations and topological edge states in electrical circuit networks. We directly map the eigenstates of two correlated bosons in one-dimensional Aharonov Bohm cages to modes of two-dimensional circuit lattices.In this case, the two-boson flat-bands and topological edge states are detected by measuring frequency-dependent impedance responses and voltage dynamics in the time domain. Our finding suggests a flexible platform to simulate the interaction-induced flat-band topology, and may possess potential applications in designing novel electronic devices.

cond-mat.mes-hall