Detecting local synchronization in coupled chaotic systems

Generalized synchronization mediated by a flat coupling between structurally nonequivalent chaotic systems

Synchronization of chaotic systems is usually investigated for structurally equivalent systems typically coupled through linear diffusive functions. Here, we focus on a particular type of coupling borrowed from a nonlinear control theory and based on the optimal placement of a sensor-a device measuring the chosen variable-and an actuator-a device applying the actuating (control) signal to a variable's derivative-in the response system, leading to the so-called flat control law. We aim to investigate the dynamics produced by a response system that is flat coupled to a drive system and to determine the degree of generalized synchronization between them using statistical and topological arguments. The general use of a flat control law for getting generalized synchronization is discussed.

Inhomogeneity induces relay synchronization in complex networks

Relay synchronization is a collective state, originally found in chains of interacting oscillators, in which uncoupled dynamical units synchronize through the action of mismatched inner nodes that relay the information but do not synchronize with them. It is demonstrated herein that relay synchronization is not limited to such simple motifs, rather it can emerge in larger and arbitrary network topologies. In particular, we show how this phenomenon can be observed in networks of chaotic systems in the presence of some mismatched units, the relay nodes, and how it is actually responsible for an enhancement of synchronization in the network.

Generalized synchronization in relay systems with instantaneous coupling

We demonstrate the existence of generalized synchronization in systems that act as mediators between two dynamical units that, in turn, show complete synchronization with each other. These are the so-called relay systems. Specifically, we analyze the Lyapunov spectrum of the full system to elucidate when complete and generalized synchronization appear. We show that once a critical coupling strength is achieved, complete synchronization emerges between the systems to be synchronized, and at the same point, generalized synchronization with the relay system also arises. Next, we use two nonlinear measures based on the distance between phase-space neighbors to quantify the generalized synchronization in discretized time series. Finally, we experimentally show the robustness of the phenomenon and of the theoretical tools here proposed to characterize it.