An invariant manifold approach for studying waves in a one-dimensional array of nonlinear oscillators (Q1369515)

The title one-dimensional array consists of a homogeneous linear spring-mass chain, coupled to a one-dimensional array of uncoupled, homogeneous pendula. The eigenfrequency of the pendulum is sufficiently larger than that of the chain; the pendula are the ``fast'' part, the spring-mass chain the ``slow'' one. It is supposed that there exists an invariant manifold containing dominantly the slow dynamics, and the fast pendula-dynamics is a small perturbation on it. With the help of an asymptotic analysis propagating (P) and attenuating (A) zones can be found in the frequency domain, similarly to a linear system. In the (P) zones, a nonlinear travelling wave solution exists, in the (A) ones the attenuated waves are possible only. Condition for the existence of a slow manifold is the validity of a nonlinear partial differential equation. When applying successive approximations and substituting in the above condition, a recursive series of linear equation arises, and this is solved by Maple V. Predicted theoretical statements are justified by numerical calculations, for example foldings, bifurcations and other nonlinear phenomena. Seven figures give an insight to the phenomena.