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Computation as an emergent feature of adaptive synchronization
M Zanin1, D Papo, I Sendiña-Nadal
1Center for Biomedical Technology, Technical University of Madrid, Campus Montegancedo, 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain. massimiliano.zanin@ctb.upm.es
Physical Review. E, Statistical, Nonlinear, and Soft Matter Physics
|February 7, 2012
Summary
Computation spontaneously emerges from adaptive synchronization in networked systems. These systems perform any Turing-complete task, demonstrating noise resilience and broad applicability across various oscillator types.
Area of Science:
- Complex Systems
- Computational Neuroscience
- Nonlinear Dynamics
Background:
- Networked dynamical systems exhibit complex emergent behaviors.
- Adaptive synchronization is a key phenomenon in coupled oscillators.
- Understanding computation in physical systems is a fundamental challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the spontaneous emergence of computation in adaptive networked systems.
- To explore the computational capabilities of these systems, including Boolean logic emulation.
- To investigate the robustness and generalizability of this computational paradigm.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing nonlinear elements interacting in a directed graph.
- Employing adaptive coupling based on signal synchronization levels.
- Analyzing network motifs associated with specific computational operations.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated emulation of Boolean logic and Turing-complete computation.
- Proved the resilience of the emergent computation against noise.
- Showcased applicability to periodic, chaotic, and excitable dynamical systems.
Conclusions:
- Adaptive synchronization in networked systems naturally gives rise to computation.
- These systems offer a robust and versatile platform for physical computation.
- The findings have implications for understanding computation in natural and artificial systems.
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