Showing papers on "Wave propagation published in 2016"

Implementation of dispersion-free slow acoustic wave propagation and phase engineering with helical-structured metamaterials.

Abstract: The ability to slow down wave propagation in materials has attracted significant research interest. A successful solution will give rise to manageable enhanced wave-matter interaction, freewheeling phase engineering and spatial compression of wave signals. The existing methods are typically associated with constructing dispersive materials or structures with local resonators, thus resulting in unavoidable distortion of waveforms. Here we show that, with helical-structured acoustic metamaterials, it is now possible to implement dispersion-free sound deceleration. The helical-structured metamaterials present a non-dispersive high effective refractive index that is tunable through adjusting the helicity of structures, while the wavefront revolution plays a dominant role in reducing the group velocity. Finally, we numerically and experimentally demonstrate that the helical-structured metamaterials with designed inhomogeneous unit cells can turn a normally incident plane wave into a self-accelerating beam on the prescribed parabolic trajectory. The helical-structured metamaterials will have profound impact to applications in explorations of slow wave physics.

Global adjoint tomography: first-generation model

Abstract: We present the first-generation global tomographic model constructed based on adjoint tomography, an iterative full-waveform inversion technique. Synthetic seismograms were calculated using GPU-accelerated spectral-element simulations of global seismic wave propagation, accommodating effects due to 3D anelastic crust & mantle structure, topography & bathymetry, the ocean load, ellipticity, rotation, and self-gravitation. Frechet derivatives were calculated in 3D anelastic models based on an adjoint-state method. The simulations were performed on the Cray XK7 named ‘Titan’, a computer with 18,688 GPU accelerators housed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The transversely isotropic global model is the result of 15 tomographic iterations, which systematically reduced differences between observed and simulated three-component seismograms. Our starting model combined 3D mantle model S362ANI (Kustowski et al. 2008) with 3D crustal model Crust2.0 (Bassin et al. 2000). We simultaneously inverted for structure in the crust and mantle, thereby eliminating the need for widely used ‘crustal corrections’. We used data from 253 earthquakes in the magnitude range 5.8~ ≤ ~Mw~ ≤ ~7.0. For the first 12 iterations, we combined ∼30 s body-wave data with ∼60 s surface-wave data. The shortest period of the surface waves was gradually decreased, and in the last three iterations we combined ∼17 s body waves with ∼45 s surface waves. We started using 180 min-long seismograms after the 12th iteration and assimilated minor- and major-arc body and surface waves. The 15th iteration model features enhancements of well-known slabs, an enhanced image of the Samoa/Tahiti plume, as well as various other plumes and hotspots, such as Caroline, Galapagos, Yellowstone, and Erebus. Furthermore, we see clear improvements in slab resolution along the Hellenic and Japan Arcs, as well as subduction along the East of Scotia Plate, which does not exist in the starting model. Point-spread function tests demonstrate that we are approaching the resolution of continental-scale studies in some areas, for example underneath Yellowstone. This is a consequence of our multi-scale smoothing strategy, in which we define our smoothing operator as a function of the approximate Hessian kernel, thereby smoothing gradients less wherever we have good ray coverage, such as underneath North America.

Wave propagation in viscoelastic single-walled carbon nanotubes with surface effect under magnetic field based on nonlocal strain gradient theory

Abstract: The governing equation of wave motion of viscoelastic SWCNTs (single-walled carbon nanotubes) with surface effect under magnetic field is formulated on the basis of the nonlocal strain gradient theory. Based on the formulated equation of wave motion, the closed-form dispersion relation between the wave frequency (or phase velocity) and the wave number is derived. It is found that the size-dependent effects on the phase velocity may be ignored at low wave numbers, however, is significant at high wave numbers. Phase velocity can increase by decreasing damping or increasing the intensity of magnetic field. The damping ratio considering surface effect is larger than that without considering surface effect. Damping ratio can increase by increasing damping, increasing wave number, or decreasing the intensity of magnetic field.

A circuit mechanism for the propagation of waves of muscle contraction in Drosophila

Abstract: Animals move by adaptively coordinating the sequential activation of muscles. The circuit mechanisms underlying coordinated locomotion are poorly understood. Here, we report on a novel circuit for the propagation of waves of muscle contraction, using the peristaltic locomotion of Drosophila larvae as a model system. We found an intersegmental chain of synaptically connected neurons, alternating excitatory and inhibitory, necessary for wave propagation and active in phase with the wave. The excitatory neurons (A27h) are premotor and necessary only for forward locomotion, and are modulated by stretch receptors and descending inputs. The inhibitory neurons (GDL) are necessary for both forward and backward locomotion, suggestive of different yet coupled central pattern generators, and its inhibition is necessary for wave propagation. The circuit structure and functional imaging indicated that the commands to contract one segment promote the relaxation of the next segment, revealing a mechanism for wave propagation in peristaltic locomotion.

Electronically-Controlled Beam-Steering through Vanadium Dioxide Metasurfaces

Abstract: Engineered metamaterials offer unique functionalities for manipulating the spectral and spatial properties of electromagnetic waves in unconventional ways. Here, we report a novel approach for making reconfigurable metasurfaces capable of deflecting electromagnetic waves in an electronically controllable fashion. This is accomplished by tilting the phase front of waves through a two-dimensional array of resonant metasurface unit-cells with electronically-controlled phase-change materials embedded inside. Such metasurfaces can be placed at the output facet of any electromagnetic radiation source to deflect electromagnetic waves at a desired frequency, ranging from millimeter-wave to far-infrared frequencies. Our design does not use any mechanical elements, external light sources, or reflectarrays, creating, for the first time, a highly robust and fully-integrated beam-steering device solution. We demonstrate a proof-of-concept beam-steering metasurface optimized for operation at 100 GHz, offering up to 44° beam deflection in both horizontal and vertical directions. Dynamic control of electromagnetic wave propagation direction through this unique platform could be transformative for various imaging, sensing, and communication applications, among others.

Unidirectional Transition Waves in Bistable Lattices.

Abstract: We present a model system for strongly nonlinear transition waves generated in a periodic lattice of bistable members connected by magnetic links. The asymmetry of the on-site energy wells created by the bistable members produces a mechanical diode that supports only unidirectional transition wave propagation with constant wave velocity. We theoretically justify the cause of the unidirectionality of the transition wave and confirm these predictions by experiments and simulations. We further identify how the wave velocity and profile are uniquely linked to the double-well energy landscape, which serves as a blueprint for transition wave control.

Diffraction-free pulsed optical beams via space-time correlations.

Abstract: Diffraction places a fundamental limitation on the distance an optical beam propagates before its size increases and spatial details blur. We show here that imposing a judicious correlation between spatial and spectral degrees of freedom of a pulsed beam can render its transverse spatial profile independent of location along the propagation axis, thereby arresting the spread of the time-averaged beam. Such correlation introduced into a beam with arbitrary spatial profile enables spatio-temporal dispersion to compensate for purely spatial dispersion that underlies diffraction. As a result, the spatio-temporal profile in the local time-frame of the pulsed beam remains invariant at all positions along the propagation axis. One-dimensional diffraction-free space-time beams are described – including non-accelerating Airy beams, despite the well-known fact that cosine waves and accelerating Airy beams are the only one-dimensional diffraction-free solutions to the monochromatic Helmholtz equation.

Non-Reciprocal Wave Propagation in Spatiotemporal Periodic Structures

Abstract: We study longitudinal and transverse wave propagation in beams with elastic properties that are periodically varying in space and time. Spatiotemporal modulation of the elastic properties breaks mechanical reciprocity and induces one-way propagation. We follow an analytic approach to characterize the non-reciprocal behavior of the structures by analyzing the symmetry breaking of the dispersion spectrum, which results in the formation of directional band gaps and produces shifts of the First Brilloin Zone limits. This approach allows us to relate position and width of the directional band gaps to the modulation parameters. Moreover, we identify the critical values of the modulation speed to maximize the non-reciprocal effect. We numerically verify the theoretical predictions by using a finite element model of the modulated beams to compute the transient response of the structure. We compute the two-dimensional Fourier transform of the collected displacement fields to calculate numerical band diagrams, showing excellent agreement between theoretical and numerical dispersion diagrams.

Wave propagation analysis of quasi-3D FG nanobeams in thermal environment based on nonlocal strain gradient theory

Abstract: This article examines the application of nonlocal strain gradient elasticity theory to wave dispersion behavior of a size-dependent functionally graded (FG) nanobeam in thermal environment. The theory contains two scale parameters corresponding to both nonlocal and strain gradient effects. A quasi-3D sinusoidal beam theory considering shear and normal deformations is employed to present the formulation. Mori–Tanaka micromechanical model is used to describe functionally graded material properties. Hamilton’s principle is employed to obtain the governing equations of nanobeam accounting for thickness stretching effect. These equations are solved analytically to find the wave frequencies and phase velocities of the FG nanobeam. It is indicated that wave dispersion behavior of FG nanobeams is significantly affected by temperature rise, nonlocality, length scale parameter and material composition.

Optical Dark Rogue Wave

Abstract: Photonics enables to develop simple lab experiments that mimic water rogue wave generation phenomena, as well as relativistic gravitational effects such as event horizons, gravitational lensing and Hawking radiation. The basis for analog gravity experiments is light propagation through an effective moving medium obtained via the nonlinear response of the material. So far, analogue gravity kinematics was reproduced in scalar optical wave propagation test models. Multimode and spatiotemporal nonlinear interactions exhibit a rich spectrum of excitations, which may substantially expand the range of rogue wave phenomena, and lead to novel space-time analogies, for example with multi-particle interactions. By injecting two colliding and modulated pumps with orthogonal states of polarization in a randomly birefringent telecommunication optical fiber, we provide the first experimental demonstration of an optical dark rogue wave. We also introduce the concept of multi-component analog gravity, whereby localized spatiotemporal horizons are associated with the dark rogue wave solution of the two-component nonlinear Schrodinger system.

Longitudinal iso-phase condition and needle pulses.

Abstract: We study the properties of pulsed solutions to the scalar and vector wave equations composed of plane-waves with equal longitudinal spatial frequency. This condition guarantees that, at all times, the field profile is invariant in the longitudinal direction. Particular emphasis is placed on solutions with rotational symmetry. For these solutions, the wave concentrates strongly near the axis at a given time. We provide closed-form expressions for some of these fields, and show that their wavefronts are approximately spherical. Solutions carrying orbital and spin angular momenta are also considered.

Frequency nonreciprocity of surface spin wave in permalloy thin films

Abstract: One of the most peculiar properties of spin waves in magnetic thin films is nonreciprocal wave propagation, i.e., a dependence of the wave properties on the propagation direction. The authors study this effect in permalloy films of thickness varying from 6 to 40 nm and find that the difference in the frequencies can reach several tens of MHz. The authors show that this frequency nonreciprocity is mainly caused by asymmetric magnetic anisotropies at the two surfaces of the ferromagnetic film. This result is important to understand recent works on the interfacial Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction, an unconventional chiral magnetic interaction that generates a similar frequency nonreciprocity. The authors demonstrate that while these contributions usually occur at the same time, the two can be distinguished via the difference in their dependence on the film thickness.

Propagation Channel Characteristics of Industrial Wireless Sensor Networks [Wireless Corner]

Abstract: The wireless channel in an industrial environment behaves much differently when compared with wave propagation in home and office environments. This is due to the presence of significant noise and interference caused by large machinery and heavy multipath propagation effects induced by highly reflective structures. In this article, a comprehensive review of radio wave propagation in an industrial environment is presented. The reported channel models and measurement results, at different frequencies and link configurations, of path loss, noise, interference, multipath propagation, and time-varying channel conditions are discussed, and the factors that influence them are highlighted. In addition, open research issues on the propagation of radio waves in an industrial environment are identified.

Periodic metamaterial plates with smart tunable local resonators

Abstract: Vibration band gaps and elastic wave propagation are examined in the metamaterial plates manufactured with periodic locally resonant membranes arranged in a square array. Periodic metamaterials exhibit unique dynamic characteristics stemming from their ability to act as mechanical filters for wave propagation. As a result, waves propagate along the periodic cells only within specific frequency bands called the pass bands, while being blocked within other frequency bands called the stop bands. The proposed metamaterial plates are equipped with sources of local resonances which act as local absorbers of mechanical vibrations. The macroscopic dynamical properties of the resulting periodic structures depend on the resonant properties of substructures which contribute to the rise of interesting effects such as broad stop band characteristics that extend to lower frequencies. Externally excited piezoelectric polyvinylidene difluoride membranes are used to support the local resonators. The stiffness of the piezo...

A new algorithm for three‐dimensional joint inversion of body wave and surface wave data and its application to the Southern California plate boundary region

Abstract: We introduce a new algorithm for joint inversion of body wave and surface wave data to get better 3-D P wave (Vp) and S wave (Vs) velocity models by taking advantage of the complementary strengths of each data set. Our joint inversion algorithm uses a one-step inversion of surface wave traveltime measurements at different periods for 3-D Vs and Vp models without constructing the intermediate phase or group velocity maps. This allows a more straightforward modeling of surface wave traveltime data with the body wave arrival times. We take into consideration the sensitivity of surface wave data with respect to Vp in addition to its large sensitivity to Vs, which means both models are constrained by two different data types. The method is applied to determine 3-D crustal Vp and Vs models using body wave and Rayleigh wave data in the Southern California plate boundary region, which has previously been studied with both double-difference tomography method using body wave arrival times and ambient noise tomography method with Rayleigh and Love wave group velocity dispersion measurements. Our approach creates self-consistent and unique models with no prominent gaps, with Rayleigh wave data resolving shallow and large-scale features and body wave data constraining relatively deeper structures where their ray coverage is good. The velocity model from the joint inversion is consistent with local geological structures and produces better fits to observed seismic waveforms than the current Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC) model.

An efficient shear deformation theory for wave propagation of functionally graded material plates

Abstract: An efficient shear deformation theory is developed for wave propagation analysis of an infinite functionally graded plate in the presence of thermal environments. By dividing the transverse displacement into bending and shear parts, the number of unknowns and governing equations of the present theory is reduced, and hence, makes it simple to use. The thermal effects and temperature-dependent material properties are both taken into account. The temperature field is assumed to be a uniform distribution over the plate surface and varied in the thickness direction only. Material properties are assumed to be temperature-dependent, and graded in the thickness direction according to a simple power law distribution in terms of the volume fractions of the constituents. The governing equations of the wave propagation in the functionally graded plate are derived by employing the Hamilton\'s principle and the physical neutral surface concept. There is no stretching–bending coupling effect in the neutral surface-based formulation, and consequently, the governing equations and boundary conditions of functionally graded plates based on neutral surface have the simple forms as those of isotropic plates. The analytic dispersion relation of the functionally graded plate is obtained by solving an eigenvalue problem. The effects of the volume fraction distributions and temperature on wave propagation of functionally graded plate are discussed in detail. It can be concluded that the present theory is not only accurate but also simple in predicting the wave propagation characteristics in the functionally graded plate. The results carried out can be used in the ultrasonic inspection techniques and structural health monitoring.

Nonlinear physics of electrical wave propagation in the heart: a review.

Abstract: The beating of the heart is a synchronized contraction of muscle cells (myocytes) that is triggered by a periodic sequence of electrical waves (action potentials) originating in the sino-atrial node and propagating over the atria and the ventricles. Cardiac arrhythmias like atrial and ventricular fibrillation (AF,VF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT) are caused by disruptions and instabilities of these electrical excitations, that lead to the emergence of rotating waves (VT) and turbulent wave patterns (AF,VF). Numerous simulation and experimental studies during the last 20 years have addressed these topics. In this review we focus on the nonlinear dynamics of wave propagation in the heart with an emphasis on the theory of pulses, spirals and scroll waves and their instabilities in excitable media with applications to cardiac modeling. After an introduction into electrophysiological models for action potential propagation, the modeling and analysis of spatiotemporal alternans, spiral and scroll meandering, spiral breakup and scroll wave instabilities like negative line tension and sproing are reviewed in depth and discussed with emphasis on their impact for cardiac arrhythmias.

Seismic interferometry of railroad induced ground motions: body and surface wave imaging

Abstract: S U M M A R Y Seismic interferometry applied to 120 hr of railroad traffic recorded by an array of vertical component seismographs along a railway within the Rio Grande rift has recovered surface and body waves characteristic of the geology beneath the railway. Linear and hyperbolic arrivals are retrieved that agree with surface (Rayleigh), direct and reflected P waves observed by nearby conventional seismic surveys. Train-generated Rayleigh waves span a range of frequencies significantly higher than those recovered from typical ambient noise interferometry studies. Direct P-wave arrivals have apparent velocities appropriate for the shallow geology of the survey area. Significant reflected P-wave energy is also present at relatively large offsets. A common midpoint stack produces a reflection image consistent with nearby conventional reflection data. We suggest that for sources at the free surface (e.g. trains) increasing the aperture of the array to record wide angle reflections, in addition to longer recording intervals, might allow the recovery of deeper geological structure from railroad traffic. Frequency– wavenumber analyses of these recordings indicate that the train source is symmetrical (i.e. approaching and receding) and that deeper refracted energy is present although not evident in the time-offset domain. These results confirm that train-generated vibrations represent a practical source of high-resolution subsurface information, with particular relevance to geotechnical and environmental applications.

Light Modes of Free Space

Abstract: A surprisingly large number of known distinct sets of light patterns propagate in free space essentially unchanged. These sets of light patterns (intensity distributions of the electric–magnetic fields) can be divided into two groups: light Waves and light Beams. Wave sets are solutions of the exact Helmholtz equation (HE). Beam sets are solutions of the paraxial HE. The sets of Waves and Beams can be further classified according to the coordinate system to which they belong. All sets are complete and orthogonal such that any square integrable input field can be decomposed into a linear superposition of the set's functions. We classify the patterns, present the solution equations and display sample patterns for each of 4 Wave sets and each of 14 Beam sets.