Multi-Scale Feedbacks for Large-Scale Coordination in Self-Systems

Abstract

Multi-scale structures, or hierarchies, are prevalent in large-scale dynamic systems, from inert matter to living and artificial systems, and systems-of-systems. Yet, a general theory helping to understand and develop multi-scale systems is still missing. This paper identifies common design aspects and variants, and synthesises them via a novel design pattern - Multi-Scale Feedbacks - to help adaptive coordination in large-scale systems. It also suggests relations between design choices and qualitative properties. The proposed pattern was distilled from a cross-domain study, including particle physics, molecular biology, neuroscience, insect and human organisations, ecosystems, autonomous control and systems-of-systems.