Synchronization of Dynamical Networks With Nonidentical Nodes: Criteria and Control

This paper presents a framework for global synchronization of dynamical networks with nonidentical nodes. Several criteria for synchronization are given using free matrices for both cases of synchronizing to a common equilibrium solution of all isolated nodes and synchronizing to the average state trajectory. These criteria can be viewed as generalizations of the master stability function method for local synchronization of networks with identical nodes to the case of nonidentical nodes. The controlled synchronization problem is also studied. The control action, which is subject to certain constraints, is viewed as reorganization of the connection topology of the network. Synchronizability conditions via control are put forward. The synchronizing controllers can be obtained by solving an optimization problem.