English

Symmetry Classification of Non-Reciprocal Responses in Multiterminal Ring Devices

Mesoscale and Nanoscale Physics 2026-07-01 v1 Superconductivity

Abstract

We present a symmetry-based framework to classify the non-reciprocal responses of multiterminal ring quantum devices. The device is modeled as a ring of nn vertices, where a binary variable ek{+1,1}e_k\in\{+1,-1\} on each bond encodes the preferred direction of signal flow between terminals. Non-reciprocity corresponds to a preferred current configuration on the ring, and the symmetry group of the device partitions all 2n2^n configurations into equivalence classes(orbits) characterized by a topological winding number WW. Using the minimal non-trivial case n=3n=3, we establish two results independent of microscopic details. First, lifting the degeneracy within an orbit generates non-reciprocal responses. For n=3n=3 this requires simultaneous breaking of both time-reversal TT and spatial inversion II. Breaking either alone is insufficient. Second, the residual geometry symmetry after TT and II are broken determines which responses are observable. For an isosceles triangular geometry, only two types of response are allowed: uniform circulation (all bonds carrying current in the same direction) and semi-circulation with the reversed bond on the geometrically distinct base. Semi-circulation with the reversed bond on either equal leg is symmetry-forbidden. Both predictions are validated using a minimal toy model of three quantum dots coupled to superconducting baths, which demonstrates a reactive quantum circulator response.

Keywords

Cite

@article{arxiv.2607.00919,
  title  = {Symmetry Classification of Non-Reciprocal Responses in Multiterminal Ring Devices},
  author = {Chen-How Huang and Tero T. Heikkilä},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2607.00919},
  year   = {2026}
}

Comments

13 pages, 10 Figures