The generic quantum $tau_2$-model (also known as Baxter-Bazhanov-Stroganov (BBS) model) with periodic boundary condition is studied via the off-diagonal Bethe Ansatz method. The eigenvalues of the corresponding transfer matrix (solutions of the recur
sive functional relations in $tau_j$-hierarchy) with generic site-dependent inhomogeneity parameters are given in terms of an inhomogeneous T-Q relation with polynomial Q-functions. The associated Bethe Ansatz equations are obtained. Numerical solutions of the Bethe Ansatz equations for small number of sites indicate that the inhomogeneous T-Q relation does indeed give the complete spectrum.
The small polaron, an one-dimensional lattice model of interacting spinless fermions, with generic non-diagonal boundary terms is studied by the off-diagonal Bethe ansatz method. The presence of the Grassmann valued non-diagonal boundary fields gives
rise to a typical $U(1)$-symmetry-broken fermionic model. The exact spectra of the Hamiltonian and the associated Bethe ansatz equations are derived by constructing an inhomogeneous $T-Q$ relation.
