Optimal stochastic resonance in a locally perturbed soft matter system

The stochastic resonance (SR) response is studied numerically in a system of bistable oscillators. These are subjected to a dynamic white noise as well to a static random dilution disorder. We impose a local subthreshold periodic excitation. We show that such a system displays optimal global SR response if a small-world network is established within the system. We propose polymer stabilized liquid crystal (LC) confined within a planparallel cell as a possible configuration in which this effect could be observed. Such set-ups could potentially serve as sensitive detectors for local perturbations exploiting small-world and soft character of the system.