Heteroclinic networks in coupled cell systems (Q1806019)

Quoting the article's abstract: ``We give an intrinsic definition of a heteroclinic network as a flow-invariant set that is indecomposable but not recurrent. Our definition covers many previously discussed examples of heteroclinic behavior. In addition, it provides a natural framework for discussing cycles between invariant sets more complicated than equilibria or limit cycles. We allow for cycles that connect chaotic sets \(\ldots\) or heteroclinic cycles \(\ldots\) . Both phenomena can occur robustly in systems with symmetry. We analyze the structure of of a heteroclinic network as well as dynamics on and near the network. In particular we introduce a notion of `depth' for a heteroclinic network \(\ldots\), characterize the connections and discuss issues of attraction, robustness and asymptotic behavior near a network.'' The paper includes a detailed analysis of these features in a model system of nine coupled cells with certain symmetries imposed.