Non-Equilibrium Behaviour in Unidirectionally Coupled Map Lattices

A spatially one dimensional coupled map lattice with a local and unidirectional coupling is introduced. This model is studied analytically by a perturbation theory that is valid for small coupling strength. In parameter space three phases with different ergodic behaviour are observed. Via coarse graining the deterministic model is mapped to a stochastic spin model that can be described by a master equation. Because of the anisotropic coupling non-equilibrium behaviour is found on the coarse grained level. However, the stationary statistical properties of the spin dynamics can still be described with a nearest neighbour Ising model whereby the ordering is predominantly antiferromagnetic.