Lattices, injective metrics and the $K(pi,1)$ conjecture


Abstract in English

Starting with a lattice with an action of $mathbb{Z}$ or $mathbb{R}$, we build a Helly graph or an injective metric space. We deduce that the $ell^infty$ orthoscheme complex of any bounded graded lattice is injective. We also prove a Cartan-Hadamard result for locally injective metric spaces. We apply this to show that any Garside group acts on an injective metric space and on a Helly graph. We also deduce that the natural piecewise $ell^infty$ metric on any Euclidean building of type $tilde{A_n}$ extended, $tilde{B_n}$, $tilde{C_n}$ or $tilde{D_n}$ is injective, and its thickening is a Helly graph. Concerning Artin groups of Euclidean types $tilde{A_n}$ and $tilde{C_n}$, we show that the natural piecewise $ell^infty$ metric on the Deligne complex is injective, the thickening is a Helly graph, and it admits a convex bicombing. This gives a metric proof of the $K(pi,1)$ conjecture, as well as several other consequences usually known when the Deligne complex has a CAT(0) metric.

Download