Invariant cones for non-smooth dynamical systems (Q1010062)

The results of this paper show that it is possible to extend some features such as invariant manifolds known for smooth systems to piecewise linear systems. Approaches such as the extension to problems including nonlinear perturbations of higher-order, or a systematic employment of various extended systems open a challenging area of research. An invariant plane known in the standard situation for smooth systems is folded into an invariant cone with two edges in the separating hyperspace for a piecewise linear systems consisting of two components. While the familiar motion of a crossing of a pair of complex eigenvalues through the imaginary axis does not work, an appropriate geometric interpretation of the Hopf bifurcation suggests a way for a successful extension.