Timing Configurations Affect the Macro-Properties of Multi-Scale Feedback Systems

TL;DR

This paper investigates how timing configurations influence the macro-properties of multi-scale feedback systems, providing a general framework and applying it to models like hierarchical oscillators and cellular automata.

Contribution

It extends the Multi-Scale Abstraction Feedbacks (MSAF) pattern to include timing, offering a general approach to analyze timing effects in multi-scale systems.

Findings

Timing configurations significantly impact macro-properties.

Different timing regions can produce similar macro-properties.

Results inform design and control of multi-scale feedback systems.

Abstract

Multi-scale feedback systems, where information cycles through micro- and macro-scales leading to adaptation, are ubiquitous across domains, from animal societies and human organisations to electric grids and neural networks. Studies on the effects of timing on system properties are often domain specific. The Multi-Scale Abstraction Feedbacks (MSAF) design pattern aims to generalise the description and understanding of multi-scale systems where feedback occurs across scales. We expand on MSAF to include timing considerations. We then apply these considerations to two models: a hierarchical oscillator (HO) and a hierarchical cellular automata (HCA). Results show how (i) different timing configurations significantly affect system macro-properties and (ii) different regions of time configurations can lead to the same macro-properties. These results contribute to theory, while also providing useful insights for designing and controlling such systems.