SPECIAL SEMINAR: Influences of Noise and Nonlinearity on Dynamic Systems

Abstract:

All physical systems have sources of nonlinearity and stochasticity. When modeling these systems, these attributes are often ignored, as they add significant complexity. Although separately noise and nonlinearity are often problematic, there are some situations where noise and nonlinearity can synergistically enhance the dynamic response of a system. In this talk, several topics concerning vibrations, stochastic dynamics, and nonlinear dynamics will be discussed: 1) the effects of noise on nonlinear oscillators, 2) adaptive oscillators with plastic states, 3) vibratory energy localizations in oscillator arrays, 4) vibrations and nonlinear dynamics for biomimetic applications, and 5) applications of vibrations and experimental design to music research. These topics have many real-world applications, including energy harvesting, robotics, and alternative computing.

Bio:

Edmon Perkins is an assistant professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at Auburn University. He received a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland, as well as a BS and MS in Mathematics from the University of Oklahoma. His research interests include nonlinear/stochastic systems, topology optimization, biomimetic systems, and chaotic communications. Currently, he advises 5 PhD students and 9 undergraduates. Additionally, he was recently awarded an Office of Naval Research Young Investigator Award in nonlinear physics.