Heteroclinic Networks in Coupled Cell Systems

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 (cycling chaos) or heteroclinic cycles (cycling cycles). Both phenomena can occur robustly in systems with symmetry.