Spiral Wave Dynamics in a Response System Subjected to a Spiral Wave Forcing

Abstract

Unidirectional linear error feedback coupling of two excitable medium systems displaying spiral waves is considered. The spiral wave in the response system is thus subjected to a spiral wave forcing. We find that the unidirectional feedback coupling can lead to richer behaviour than the mutual coupling. The spiral wave dynamics in the response system depends on the coupling strength and frequency mismatch. When the coupling strength is small, the feedback coupling induces the drift or meander of the forced spiral wave. When the coupling strength is large enough, the feedback coupling may lead to the transition from spiral wave to anti-target or target-like wave. The generation of anti-target wave in coupled excitable media is observed for the first time. Furthermore, when the coupling strength is strong, the synchronization between two subsystems can be established.