Stable states and kink dynamics in a system of coupled diode resonators

We investigate the origin of stable spatially extended waveforms in an open flow system consisting of unidirectionally coupled chaotic oscillators. Results are obtained for an experimental system consisting of coupled diode resonators as well as for a coupled map lattice, a numerical model comprised of logistic maps. Under the conditions studied, spatially coherent or laminar states in both systems are convectively unstable, typically inducing high-dimensional, complex spatio-temporal dynamics. In each system stable spatial waveforms are shown to exist and are stabilized by either anchoring the first oscillator onto specific temporal orbits or by employing periodic boundary conditions. The latter case combined with a reduced drive amplitude also allows for travelling phase-kink solutions which move with constant velocity. This velocity is roughly inversely proportional to the coupling resistance and also depends on the number of kinks present in the system. We show evidence that the stable states of the system are associated with travelling kinks.