Constructive Synchronization of Networked Feedback Systems

This paper is concerned with global asymptotic output synchronization in networks of identical feedback systems. Using an operator theoretic approach based on an incremental small gain theorem, the method reformulates the synchronization problem as one of achieving incremental stability using a coupling operator that plays the role of an incrementally stabilizing feedback. In this way, conditions on static or dynamic coupling operators that achieve output synchronization of nodes of arbitrary structure are derived. These conditions lead to a methodology for the construction of coupling architectures that ensure output synchronization of a wide range of systems. The result is illustrated for a network of biochemical oscillators.