Transitional behavior in hydrodynamically coupled oscillators

Box, S., Debono, L., Phillips, D.B. and Simpson, S.H. (2015) Transitional behavior in hydrodynamically coupled oscillators. Physical Review E, 91(2), 022916. (doi: 10.1103/PhysRevE.91.022916) (PMID:25768578)

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Abstract

In this article we consider the complete set of synchronized and phase-locked states available to pairs of hydrodynamically coupled colloidal rotors, consisting of spherical beads driven about circular paths in the same, and in opposing senses. Oscillators such as these have previously been used as coarse grained, minimal models of beating cilia. Two mechanisms are known to be important in establishing synchrony. The first involves perturbation of the driving force, and the second involves deformation of the rotor trajectory. We demonstrate that these mechanisms are of similar strength, in the regime of interest, and interact to determine observed behavior. Combining analysis and simulation with experiments performed using holographic optical tweezers, we show how varying the amplitude of the driving force perturbation leads to a transition from synchronized to phase-locked states. Analogies with biological systems are discussed, as are implications for the design of biomimetic devices.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Phillips, Dr David
Authors: Box, S., Debono, L., Phillips, D.B., and Simpson, S.H.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Biomedical Engineering
Journal Name:Physical Review E
Publisher:American Physical Society
ISSN:1539-3755
ISSN (Online):1550-2376

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