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 extended systems. Besides of being a measure of regularity, this operator permits to quantify the degree of phase disorder associated with a given gradient field. An application of GEF to the analysis of the gradient pattern dynamics of a logistic Coupled Map Lattice is presented. Simulations using a Gaussian and random initial condition, provide interesting insights on the system gradual transition from order/symmetry to disorder/randomness.