Enhanced synchronization range from non-linear micromechanical oscillators

In this paper, we report that the synchronization range of micro-oscillators increases with increasing drive force when operating the oscillators in the non-linear regime. This enhancement is contrary to the same observation for oscillators operating in the linear regime where the synchronization range decreases with increasing drive force. This creates the ability to synchronize multiple oscillators operating in the non-linear regime across a greater frequency range to accommodate larger frequency deviations between devices caused by fabrication variances. We have observed the increased synchronization range in both mechanical hardening and electrostatic softening non-linear micro-oscillators.