Traveling phase waves in asymmetric networks of noisy chaotic attractors

We explore identical Rössler systems organized into two equally sized groups, among which differing positive and negative in- and out-coupling strengths are allowed. With this asymmetric coupling, we analyze patterns in the phase dynamics that coexist with chaotic amplitudes. We specifically investigate traveling phase waves where the oscillators settle on a new rhythm different from their own. We show that these waves are possible even without coherence in the phase angles. It is further demonstrated that the emergence of these incoherent traveling waves depends on the type of coupling, not on the individual dynamics of the Rössler systems. Together with the study of noise effects, our results suggest a promising new avenue toward the interplay of chaotic, noisy, coherent, and incoherent collective dynamics.