Reciprocity theorem and LTI systems

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the reciprocity theorem as it applies to resistor networks, with a focus on its generality and limitations regarding Linear Time-Invariant (LTI) systems. Participants seek theoretical references and explore the implications of the theorem in various contexts, including circuit design and electromagnetic theory.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests theoretical references on the reciprocity theorem for resistor networks and questions its generality and applicability to LTI systems.
  • Another participant asks for clarification on what the reciprocity theorem entails for resistor networks.
  • A reference link is provided that discusses the reciprocity theorem in a general context.
  • Participants mention that Lorentz reciprocity can be simplified for linear systems under certain assumptions.
  • There is a query about the practical advantages of using the reciprocity theorem over standard circuit solutions or simulations.
  • A participant outlines a derivation of the reciprocity theorem from Maxwell's equations, emphasizing its relationship to two-port networks and antenna design.
  • One participant expresses a preference for focusing on the resistor network version of the theorem and questions whether it holds for non-LTI networks.
  • Another participant asserts that the reciprocity theorem for resistor networks is a linear case of a more general, non-linear theorem and claims that it is time-invariant.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the applicability of the reciprocity theorem to non-LTI systems, with some asserting it is limited to linear cases while others suggest it may have broader implications. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the extent of the theorem's generality.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the reciprocity theorem's application may depend on specific assumptions about linearity and time invariance, but these assumptions are not fully explored or agreed upon in the discussion.

sokrates
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I am looking for good, theoretical references on the reciprocity theorem for resistor networks.

I am trying to find out how general the theorem is and whether it is only limited to LTI systems.

Thanks in advance for the suggestions...
 
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What's the reciprocity theorem for resistor networks?
 
For instance:

http://mysite.du.edu/~jcalvert/tech/reciproc.htm
 
I am trying to find out how general the theorem is and whether it is only limited to LTI systems.

here is a small wiki reference:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reciprocity_(electromagnetism)

The general theorem is the Lorentz reciprocity which can be simplified to a linear system by making some assumptions.
 
Last edited:
What is this theorem used for? What is it's advantage over a standard solution/simulation of the circuit? I wasn't able to figure that out from a quick read of sokrates' link

http://mysite.du.edu/~jcalvert/tech/reciproc.htm

.
 
Basically, you can derive a two-port network directly from Maxwell's equations.

1. Start with Maxwell's equations.

2. That leads to Lorentz reciprocity theorem:

the relationship between an oscillating current and the resulting electric field is unchanged if one interchanges the points where the current is placed and where the field is measured (wiki).

3. Make linear approximation

4. And we get the reciprocity theorem which is a simplified version for linear systems only.

5. Using the theorem one can derive two-port network parameters.

Here is another more in depth reference:
http://www.eecs.umich.edu/RADLAB/html/techreports/RL871.pdfAnother application of the theorem is in antenna design. One can prove that a radiation pattern for a transmitting antenna is the same as it would be receiving.
 
Hi, what.

Thank you for your insights and references. I am more interested in the resistor network version of the theorem...

Is this the simplifed version? Or would it hold even if my network is not Linear-Time Invariant?These are all good, but I don't need the Maxwell treatment.
 
Sorry for the Maxwellian blast, but just trying to illustrate that the reciprocity theorem for resistor networks is just a linear case of a more general theorem, which is non-linear. Reciprocity for resistor networks is time-invariant also.
 

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