Generalized complex entropic form for gradient pattern analysis of spatio-temporal dynamics

In this paper we describe a new computational operator, called generalized complex entropic form (GEF), for pattern characterization of spatially exte nded systems. Besides of being a measure of regularity, this operator permi ts to quantify the degree of phase disorder associated with a given gradien t field. An application of GEF to the analysis of the gradient pattern dyna mics of a logistic Coupled Map Lattice is presented. Simulations using a Ga ussian and random initial condition, provide interesting insights on the sy stem gradual transition from order/symmetry to disorder/randomness. (C) 200 0 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.