This invention proposes a sound-acoustic wave (SAW) device that integrates topological acoustics and phase change materials to enable a new generation of reconfigurable SAW devices. The purpose of these devices is to enhance the high quality factor using the footprints of existing devices, but without sacrificing transmittivity. This invention integrates several technologies, including fabrication of SAW devices, laser-rewritable phase change materials, and acoustic superlattice/phononic crystals supporting topological waves that have not yet been reported for the development of devices with applications in the telecommunication industry. Background: In order to meet the growing consumer demand for smaller, more powerful, and energy-efficient communication, radio frequency (RF) sound-acoustic wave (SAW) devices needs to deliver low cost, low power consumption, a compact footprint, and a high quality factor. Applying concepts from topological physics to control the propagation of sound and mechanical waves in RF SAW devices, allow for the creation of edge- or corner-localized acoustic modes that are immune to certain types of defects or disorder. These devices are often fabricated on piezoelectric substrates like lithium niobate and can be enhanced with engineered phononic structures or reconfigurable materials like phase-change chalcogenides. The result is a new class of RF components that exhibit enhanced robustness, compactness, and tunability compared to conventional SAW filters and resonators. By exploiting band topology, wave confinement, and programmable geometries, these devices hold promise for revolutionizing communication systems where precision, resilience, and miniaturization are critical. Applications:
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