Acoustic logic networks realized with non-Hermitian and nonlocal metagratings

This paper proposes the concept and demonstrates the realization of acoustic logic networks (ALNs), a system that performs various logic operations using sound waves. Unlike traditional systems with separate components, ALNs integrate multiple logic functionalities with a single platform, performing operations like and, or, and xor gates, similar to those used in electronic computers. The design of ALNs leverages the non-Hermitian and nonlocal metagratings. By considering the intricate nonlocal interaction within the structure, the metagratings are designed to operate at exceptional points (EPs) to achieve the desired logic functions. Two metagratings are cascaded to construct the acoustic logic module (ALM), which acts as the basic building block of an ALN. The effectiveness of ALNs is confirmed through theoretical calculations, numerical simulations, and experiments. We demonstrate the ability to perform complex logic operations and realize various multichannel computing functions with the ALN of different configurations. These results showcase precise control over sound waves and significantly enhanced computing capabilities. The proposed ALNs represent a significant step forward in acoustic computing. This technology has the potential to revolutionize fields where traditional electronic computing might be impractical due to size, energy efficiency, or environmental limitations.