In this paper, we will propose a dielectrophoresis-based microchannel system. Based on numerical calculations and theoretical analysis, we investigate the dynamic behaviors of a microparticle in this system, in the presence of nonuniform electric fields generated by point microelectrodes. Good agreement is shown between them. It is found that the microelectrodes enable the system equilibrium to...

We propose a novel explanation for bistable perception, namely, the collective dynamics of multiple neural populations that are individually meta-stable. Distributed representations of sensory input and of perceptual state build gradually through noise-driven transitions in these populations, until the competition between alternative representations is resolved by a threshold mechanism. The per...

Ambient mechanical vibrations have emerged as a viable energy source for low-power wireless sensor nodes aiming the upcoming era of the 'Internet of Things'. Recently, purposefully induced dynamical nonlinearities have been exploited to widen the frequency spectrum of vibration energy harvesters. Here we investigate some critical inconsistencies between the theoretical formulation and applicati...

Cell signaling systems that contain positive-feedback loops or double-negative feedback loops can, in principle, convert graded inputs into switch-like, irreversible responses. Systems of this sort are termed "bistable". Recently, several groups have engineered artificial bistable systems into Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and have shown that the systems exhibit interesting and...

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 unidirectionali...

I study bistable time-delayed feedback systems driven by noise. Based on a two-state model with transition rates depending on the earlier state of the system I calculate analytically the residence-time distribution function. I show that the distribution function has a detailed structure, reflective of the effect of the feedback. By using an adequate indicator I give evidence of resonant behavio...