Frequency Synchronization Induced by Frequency Detuning

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that in certain oscillator networks, intentionally detuning identical oscillators can induce frequency synchronization, supported by theoretical analysis, simulations, and experiments, revealing a counterintuitive method to enhance synchronization.

Contribution

It introduces a novel phenomenon where frequency detuning among identical oscillators promotes synchronization, supported by comprehensive theory, simulations, and experimental validation.

Findings

Frequency detuning induces synchronization in multistable oscillator networks.

Synchronization occurs over a broad range of detuning values.

Experimental results confirm the theoretical and simulation findings.

Abstract

It is widely held that identical systems tend to behave similarly under comparable conditions. Yet, for systems that interact through a network, symmetry breaking can lead to scenarios in which this expectation does not hold. Prominent examples are chimera states in multistable phase-oscillator networks. Here, we show that for a broad class of such networks, asynchronous states can be converted into frequency-synchronized states when identical oscillators are detuned to have different intrinsic frequencies. Importantly, we show that frequency synchronization is achieved over a range of intrinsic frequency detuning and is thus a robust effect. These results, which are supported by theory, simulations, and electrochemical oscillator experiments, reveal a counterintuitive opportunity to use parameter heterogeneity to promote synchronization.