Nonlinear amplifier and frequency shifter using a tunable periodic drive

We consider the superposition of a weak and a strong force acting on an overdamped particle moving on either an asymmetric-periodic or a double-well potential. The velocity of the particle has only harmonics of the strong force, when the particle either oscillates near a minimum or runs away from it. Near a threshold drive (bistable point) separating these two dynamical regimes, the weak force drastically changes the velocity spectrum, greatly amplifying the mixing harmonics. This effect can be used either to amplify or to shift the frequency of a weak signal and can be observed in a wide variety of systems, including domain walls in a ferromagnet, SQUIDs, and tiny particles in a ratchet potential.