The quest for energy efficiency is a constant endeavor in our modern world, and sometimes the best solutions come from the humblest of resources. In this case, a team of scientists turned to the natural world to learn how oscillating systems are synchronized to maximize energy use.

By studying natural rhythms, researchers hope to leverage principles that could transform energy management in technology, from electrical grids to communications networks.

Synchronization and energy efficiency

We see examples of synchronization in nature every day; the rhythmic beating of our heart in harmony with our lungs or the fascinating flickering of fireflies in harmony. Inspired by these examples, researchers at the University of New Mexico School of Engineering studied natural rhythms to uncover hidden strategies that could improve synchronization efficiency.

His mathematical studies of synchronization revealed that biological systems achieve efficiency by using different phases of oscillation. If this approach is applied to human technology, significant efficiency gains can be achieved in various sectors.

Ph.D. “In terms of the energy required to synchronize coupled oscillator systems, our strategy shows that we can achieve energy savings of several orders of magnitude,” said Amirhossein Nazerian. candidate of machines.

Energy solutions inspired by nature

The role of synchronization in biology is not only a fascinating phenomenon; This has important consequences for our technological world. Lessons learned from these naturally occurring biological systems can help improve the design and management of different types of technology, such as power grids and drones, allowing them to save energy during emissions.

Imitating nature’s energy efficiency

By simulating the precise timing observed in nature, engineers can design systems that operate more smoothly, efficiently and sustainably, transforming our approach to energy management. Francesco Sorrentino is a professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the study’s principal investigator.

“We looked at it from a mathematical perspective and asked how systems in nature, the human body, ecological and social systems are synchronized. In nature, efficiency is very important in both animals and cells, because these systems cannot afford to waste energy,” said Professor Sorrentino.

Manipulation of adhesion force

In collaboration with Matteo Lodi of the University of Genoa and Joseph Hart of the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, the UNM team made a remarkable discovery.

“Coupling strength” refers to how strongly the components of an oscillating system interact.

The researchers found that by understanding the various stages of oscillation in the system, they could manipulate the coupling strength, leading to a significant reduction in energy consumption. This strategy involves dynamically adjusting the coupling strength depending on the phase of oscillation the system is in, allowing for precise energy control.

Maximizing energy efficiency

This innovative approach shows that synchronization can be achieved more efficiently if the connection between oscillating systems is activated only when necessary, thus significantly minimizing core energy consumption and avoiding unnecessary power losses.

This is an intriguing discovery that could lead to the development of more energy-efficient systems. After all, if tiny fireflies can master the art of efficient synchronization, who’s to say our power grids and advanced technology can’t?

Wider implications of the study

The information obtained through natural synchronization methods offers promising applications in many fields where even small efficiency gains can lead to significant energy savings.

For example, in renewable energy systems such as wind and solar farms, synchronization can help stabilize power fluctuations by equalizing the output of multiple energy sources. When these systems work in harmony, total energy output is maximized with less energy loss.

Synchronization techniques in transportation networks can make autonomous vehicle fleets more energy efficient by coordinating traffic flows, reducing stop-and-go patterns, and reducing fuel consumption.

Healthcare technology can also benefit from this, as medical devices such as pacemakers or diagnostic equipment can become more reliable and energy efficient thanks to oscillatory synchronization techniques.

By mirroring nature’s finely tuned rhythms, researchers envision a future in which industries can operate more sustainably, delivering better productivity with less impact on the environment. The study was published in the journal Nature Communication.