Outer synchronization for a class of generalized nonlinear delay networks

This paper looks into the outer synchronization issue of two networks with nonlinear, time-delay and different topological characteristics. Given two general dynamic network models, a set of synchronization criteria based on the Lyapunov stability analysis are proposed and the theoretical analysis is presented. In addition, to expand the generality of the proposed control criteria, two synchronization schemes for two linear coupling networks and similar topologies are derived respectively. Unlike the existing solutions obtained from specific studies, the proposed outer synchronization scheme can be applicable for a class of complex networks with nonlinear and time-delay characteristics and the synchronization criteria are not restricted by the symmetry of the network topological structures. This greatly improves the applicability and generality of the controller in practical deployment. The numerical simulation study on the network with dynamic chaotic characteristic are carried out and the result validates and demonstrates the effectiveness of the suggested control mechanism.