Time-delay–induced synchronization in complex networks: Exploring the dynamical mechanism

Abstract

We show that delayed coupling could induce or enhance stable chaotic synchronization in complex networks, where no or weak synchrony would exist for the usual instantaneous coupling. The mechanism behind this phenomenon reveals that the phase structure of the coupled chaotic oscillator plays the main role. Numerical results for Rössler and Lorenz oscillators as network nodes confirm the generality of this phenomenon. Together with our previous findings, we highlight the importance of taking the dynamical structure into account when studying or designing large-scale networks for stable synchronization.