Generalized Haldane models on laser-coupling optical lattices

Abstract

We propose two generalized Haldane models on laser-coupling optical lattices. Laser-assisted nearest neighbour tunnelings generate artificial staggered magnetic flux, facilitating the realization of topological nontrivial band structures. As generalizations of Haldane model, these models support topological insulator and semimetal phases featuring high Chern numbers. We show simple rules for computing Chern numbers of our models and display the phase diagrams. Moreover, numerical calculations of energy spectra are in perfect agreement with our theoretical expectations. Our models may serve as two new family members for generalizing Haldane model on optical lattices.