T-systems with boundaries from network solutions (Q1953373)

Summary: In this paper, we use the network solution of the \(A_rT\)-system to derive that of the unrestricted \(A_\infty T\)-system, equivalent to the octahedron relation. We then present a method for implementing various boundary conditions on this system, which consists of picking initial data with suitable symmetries. The corresponding restricted \(T\)-systems are solved exactly in terms of networks. This gives a simple explanation for phenomena such as the Zamolodchikov periodicity property for \(T\)-systems (corresponding to the case \(A_\ell\times A_r\)) and a combinatorial interpretation for the positive Laurent property for the variables of the associated cluster algebra. We also explain the relation between the \(T\)-system wrapped on a torus and the higher pentagram maps of \textit{M. Gekhtman} et al. [Electron. Res. Announc. Math. Sci. 19, 1--17 (2012; Zbl 1278.37047)].