Synchronization in discrete-time networks with general pairwise coupling

TL;DR

This paper analyzes synchronization in complex networks of coupled maps, deriving conditions for synchronization and revealing how network interactions can induce or suppress chaotic behavior.

Contribution

It introduces mixed transverse exponents and provides new criteria for synchronization in networks with general, possibly directed and weighted, coupling.

Findings

Synchronization can induce chaos in simple units.

Chaos can be suppressed through synchronization in chaotic networks.

New synchronous behaviors emerge from non-diffusive coupling.

Abstract

We consider complete synchronization of identical maps coupled through a general interaction function and in a general network topology where the edges may be directed and may carry both positive and negative weights. We define mixed transverse exponents and derive sufficient conditions for local complete synchronization. The general non-diffusive coupling scheme can lead to new synchronous behavior, in networks of identical units, that cannot be produced by single units in isolation. In particular, we show that synchronous chaos can emerge in networks of simple units. Conversely, in networks of chaotic units simple synchronous dynamics can emerge; that is, chaos can be suppressed through synchrony.