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Synchronization Driven Reciprocity Breaking
Alexander K Stoychev1, Ulrich Kuhl1,2, Nicolas Noiray1
1ETH Zürich, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, CAPS Laboratory, 8092 Zürich, Switzerland.
Physical Review Letters
|July 31, 2026
Summary
This study breaks wave transmission reciprocity using coupled self-oscillators. By controlling synchronization states (in-phase and antiphase), the system achieves directional wave control with stable, self-adjusting properties.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Acoustics
- Nonlinear Dynamics
Background:
- Reciprocity in wave transmission is a fundamental principle.
- Breaking reciprocity is crucial for applications like one-way devices.
- Existing methods often rely on resonance or active components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate a novel method for breaking wave transmission reciprocity.
- To exploit self-oscillation and synchronization in coupled systems for directional control.
- To provide a theoretical framework for the observed nonlinear dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing two coupled self-oscillators (aeroacoustic cavities) as meta-atoms.
- Driving synchronization states (in-phase and antiphase) via port illumination.
- Experimental demonstration and theoretical modeling using modified temporal coupled mode theory.
Main Results:
- Achieved broken reciprocity through controlled synchronization states.
- Demonstrated robust nonreciprocal behavior with stable, self-adjusting properties.
- Experimental results validated the theoretical predictions for nonlinear dynamics and scattering.
Conclusions:
- Synchronization of coupled self-oscillators offers a new pathway for breaking wave reciprocity.
- This approach provides intrinsic loss compensation and broad operational bandwidth.
- The method complements traditional techniques for directional wave control.
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