Mathematical models displaying travelling waves appear in a variety of domains. These waves are often faced with different kinds of perturbations. In some cases, these perturbations result in propagation failure, also known as wave-blocking. Wave-blocking has been studied in the case of several specific models, often with the help of numerical tools. In this thesis, we will display a technique that uses symmetry and a center manifold reduction to find a criterion which defines regions in parameter space where a wave will be blocked. We focus on waves with low velocity and small symmetry-breaking perturbations, which is where the blocking initiates; the organising center. The range of the tools used makes the technique easily generalizable to higher dimensions. In order to demonstrate this technique, we apply it to the bistable equation. This allows us to do calculations explicitly. As a result, we show that wave-blocking occurs inside a wedge originating from the organising center and derive an expression for this wedge to leading order. We verify our results with some numerical simulations.

Cette thèse traite de modèles mésoscopiques de cortex appelés champs neuronaux. Les équations des champs neuronaux décrivent l'activité corticale de populations de neurones, ayant des propriétés anatomiques/fonctionnelles communes. Elles ont été introduites dans les années 1950 et portent le nom d'équations de Wilson et Cowan. Mathématiquement, elles consistent en des équations intégro-différentielles avec retards, les retards modélisant les délais de propagation des signaux ainsi que le passage des signaux à travers les synapses et l'arbre dendritique. Dans la première partie, nous rappelons la biologie nécessaire à la compréhension de cette thèse et dérivons les équations principales. Puis, nous étudions ces équations du point de vue des systèmes dynamiques en caractérisant leurs points d'équilibres et la dynamique dans la seconde partie. Dans la troisième partie, nous étudions de façon générale ces équations à retards en donnant des formules pour les diagrammes de bifurcation, en prouvant un théorème de la variété centrale et en calculant les principales formes normales. Nous appliquons tout d'abord ces résultats à des champs neuronaux simples mono-dimensionnels qui permettent une étude détaillée de la dynamique. Enfin, dans la dernière partie, nous appliquons ces différents résultats à trois modèles de cortex visuel. Les deux premiers modèles sont issus de la littérature et décrivent respectivement une hypercolonne, /i.e./ l'élément de base de la première aire visuelle (V1) et un réseau de telles hypercolonnes. Le dernier modèle est un nouveau modèle de V1 qui généralise les deux modèles précédents tout en permettant une étude poussée des effets spécifiques des retards / This thesis deals with mesoscopic models of cortex called neural fields. The neural field equations describe the activity of neuronal populations, with common anatomical / functional properties. They were introduced in the 1950s and are called the equations of Wilson and Cowan. Mathematically, they consist of integro-differential equations with delays, the delays modeling the signal propagation and the passage of signals across synapses and the dendritic tree. In the first part, we recall the biology necessary to understand this thesis and derive the main equations. Then, we study these equations with the theory of dynamical systems by characterizing their equilibrium points and dynamics in the second part. In the third part, we study these delayed equations in general by giving formulas for the bifurcation diagrams, by proving a center manifold theorem, and by calculating the principal normal forms. We apply these results to one-dimensional neural fields which allows a detailed study of the dynamics. Finally, in the last part, we study three models of visual cortex. The first two models are from the literature and describe respectively a hypercolumn, i.e. the basic element of the first visual area (V1) and a network of such hypercolumns. The latest model is a new model of V1 which generalizes the two previous models while allowing a detailed study of specific effects of delays

In this thesis, both theoretical and application oriented results are obtained for differential equations with discontinuities of different types: impulsive differential equations, differential equations with piecewise constant argument of generalized type and differential equations with discontinuous right-hand sides. Several qualitative problems such as stability, Hopf bifurcation, center manifold reduction, permanence and persistence are addressed for these equations and also for Lotka-Volterra predator-prey models with variable time of impulses, ratio-dependent predator-prey systems and logistic equation with piecewise constant argument of generalized type. For the first time, by means of Lyapunov functions coupled with the Razumikhin method, sufficient conditions are established for stability of the trivial solution of differential equations with piecewise constant argument of generalized type. Appropriate examples are worked out to illustrate the applicability of the method. Moreover, stability analysis is performed for the logistic equation, which is one of the most widely used population dynamics models. The behaviour of solutions for a 2-dimensional system of differential equations with discontinuous right-hand side, also called a Filippov system, is studied. Discontinuity sets intersect at a vertex, and are of the quasilinear nature. Through the B&amp / #8722 / equivalence of that system to an impulsive differential equation, Hopf bifurcation is investigated. Finally, the obtained results are extended to a 3-dimensional discontinuous system of Filippov type. After the existence of a center manifold is proved for the 3-dimensional system, a theorem on the bifurcation of periodic solutions is provided in the critical case. Illustrative examples and numerical simulations are presented to verify the theoretical results.

This thesis deals with mesoscopic models of cortex called neural fields. The neural field equations describe the activity of neuronal populations, with common anatomical / functional properties. They were introduced in the 1950s and are called the equations of Wilson and Cowan. Mathematically, they consist of integro-differential equations with delays, the delays modeling the signal propagation and the passage of signals across synapses and the dendritic tree. In the first part, we recall the biology necessary to understand this thesis and derive the main equations. Then, we study these equations with the theory of dynamical systems by characterizing their equilibrium points and dynamics in the second part. In the third part, we study these delayed equations in general by giving formulas for the bifurcation diagrams, by proving a center manifold theorem, and by calculating the principal normal forms. We apply these results to one-dimensional neural fields which allows a detailed study of the dynamics. Finally, in the last part, we study three models of visual cortex. The first two models are from the literature and describe respectively a hypercolumn, i.e. the basic element of the first visual area (V1) and a network of such hypercolumns. The latest model is a new model of V1 which generalizes the two previous models while allowing a detailed study of specific effects of delays

abstract: It remains unquestionable that space-based technology is an indispensable component of modern daily lives. Success or failure of space missions is largely contingent upon the complex system analysis and design methodologies exerted in converting the initial idea into an elaborate functioning enterprise. It is for this reason that this dissertation seeks to contribute towards the search for simpler, efficacious and more reliable methodologies and tools that accurately model and analyze space systems dynamics. Inopportunely, despite the inimical physical hazards, space systems must endure a perturbing dynamical environment that persistently disorients spacecraft attitude, dislodges spacecraft from their designated orbital locations and compels spacecraft to follow undesired orbital trajectories. The ensuing dynamics’ analytical models are complexly structured, consisting of parametrically excited nonlinear systems with external periodic excitations–whose analysis and control is not a trivial task. Therefore, this dissertation’s objective is to overcome the limitations of traditional approaches (averaging and perturbation, linearization) commonly used to analyze and control such dynamics; and, further obtain more accurate closed-form analytical solutions in a lucid and broadly applicable manner. This dissertation hence implements a multi-faceted methodology that relies on Floquet theory, invariant center manifold reduction and normal forms simplification. At the heart of this approach is an intuitive system state augmentation technique that transforms non-autonomous nonlinear systems into autonomous ones. Two fitting representative types of space systems dynamics are investigated; i) attitude motion of a gravity gradient stabilized spacecraft in an eccentric orbit, ii) spacecraft motion in the vicinity of irregularly shaped small bodies. This investigation demonstrates how to analyze the motion stability, chaos, periodicity and resonance. Further, versal deformation of the normal forms scrutinizes the bifurcation behavior of the gravity gradient stabilized attitude motion. Control laws developed on transformed, more tractable analytical models show that; unlike linear control laws, nonlinear control strategies such as sliding mode control and bifurcation control stabilize the intricate, unwieldy astrodynamics. The pitch attitude dynamics are stabilized; and, a regular periodic orbit realized in the vicinity of small irregularly shaped bodies. Importantly, the outcomes obtained are unconventionally realized as closed-form analytical solutions obtained via the comprehensive approach introduced by this dissertation. / Dissertation/Thesis / Doctoral Dissertation Systems Engineering 2019

Este trabalho apresenta um estudo qualitativo das equações diferenciais nãolineares que descrevem o sincronismo de fase nos PLLs de 3ª ordem que compõem redes OWMS de topologia mista, Estrela Simples e Cadeia Simples. O objetivo é determinar, através da Teoria de Bifurcações, os valores ou relações entre os parâmetros constitutivos da rede que permitam a existência e a estabilidade do estado síncrono, quando são aplicadas, no oscilador mestre, duas funções de excitação muito comuns na prática: o degrau e a rampa de fase. Na determinação da estabilidade dos pontos de equilíbrio, sob o ponto de vista de Lyapunov, a existência de pontos de equilíbrio não-hiperbólicos não permite uma aproximação linear e, nesses casos, é aplicado o Teorema da Variedade Central. Essa técnica de simplificação de sistemas dinâmicos permite fazer uma aproximação homeomórfica em torno desses pontos, preservando a orientação no espaço de fases e possibilitando determinar localmente suas estabilidades. / This work presents a qualitative study of the non-linear differential equations that describe the synchronous state in 3rd order PLLs that compose One-way masterslave time distribution networks with Single Star and Single Chain topologies. Using bifurcation theory, the dynamical behavior of third-order phase-locked loops employed to extract the syncronous state in each node is analyzed depending on constitutive node parameters when two usual inputs, the step and the ramp phase pertubations, are supposed to appear in the master node. When parameter combinations result in non hyperbolic synchronous states, from Lyapunov point of view, the linear approximation does not provide any information about the local behavior of the system. In this case, the center manifold theorem permits the construction of an equivalent vector field representing the asymptotic behavior of the original system in the neighborhood of these points. Thus, the local stability can be determined.

Neste trabalho, são estudados os problemas de sincronismo de fase nas redes mestre-escravo de via única (OWMS), nas topologias Estrela Simples, Cadeia Simples e mista, através da Teoria Qualitativa de Equações Diferenciais, com ênfase no Teorema da Variedade Central. Através da Teoria das Bifurcações, analisa-se o comportamento dinâmico das malhas de sincronismo de fase (PLL) de segunda ordem que compõem cada rede, frente às variações nos seus parâmetros constitutivos. São utilizadas duas funções de excitação muito comuns na prática: o degrau e a rampa de fase, aplicadas pelo nó mestre. Em cada caso, discute-se a existência e a estabilidade do estado síncrono. A existência de pontos de equilíbrio não-hiperbólicos, não permite uma aproximação linear, e nesses casos é aplicado o Teorema da Variedade Central. Através dessa rigorosa técnica de simplificação de sistemas dinâmicos é possível fazer uma aproximação homeomórfica em torno desses pontos, preservando a orientação no espaço de fases. Desse modo, é possível determinar, localmente, suas estabilidades. / This work presents stability analysis of the syncronous state for three types of one-way master-slave time distribution network topologies: single star, single chain and both of them, mixed. Using bifurcation theory, the dynamical behavior of second-order phase-locked loops employed to extract the syncronous state in each node is analyzed in function of the constitutive parameters. Two usual inputs, the step and the ramp phase pertubations, are supposed to appear in the master node and, in each case, the existence and stability of the syncronous state are studied. For parameter combinations resulting in non hyperbolic synchronous states, the linear approximation does not provide any information, even about the local behaviour of the system. In this case, the center manifold theorem permits the construction of an equivalent vector field representing the asymptotic behaviour of the original system in the neighborhood of these points. Thus, the local stability can be determined.

Klassische Methoden für die direkte Berechnung von Hopf Punkten und andere Singularitaten basieren auf der Auswertung und Faktorisierung der Jakobimatrix. Dieses stellt ein Hindernis dar, wenn die Dimensionen des zugrundeliegenden Problems gross genug ist, was oft bei Partiellen Diferentialgleichungen der Fall ist. Die betrachteten Systeme haben die allgemeine Darstellung f ( x(t), α) für t grösser als 0, wobei x die Zustandsvariable, α ein beliebiger Parameter ist und f glatt in Bezug auf x und α ist. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird ein Matrixfreies Schema entwicklet und untersucht, dass ausschliesslich aus Produkten aus Jakobimatrizen und Vektoren besteht, zusammen mit der Auswertung anderer Ableitungsvektoren erster und zweiter Ordnung. Hiermit wird der Grenzwert des Parameters α, der zuständig ist für das Verlieren der Stabilität des Systems, am Hopfpunkt bestimmt. In dieser Arbeit wird ein Gleichungssystem zur iterativen Berechnung des Hopfpunktes aufgestellt. Das System wird mit einer skalaren Testfunktion φ, die aus einer Projektion des kritischen Eigenraums bestimmt ist, ergänzt. Da das System f aus einer räumlichen Diskretisierung eines Systems Partieller Differentialgleichungen entstanden ist, wird auch in dieser Arbeit die Berechung des Fehlers, der bei der Diskretisierung unvermeidbar ist, dargestellt und untersucht. Zur Bestimmung der Hopf-Bedingungen wird ein einzelner Parameter gesteuert. Dieser Parameter wird unabhängig oder zusammen mit dem Zustandsvektor in einem gedämpften Iterationsschritt neu berechnet. Der entworfene Algorithmus wird für das FitzHugh-Nagumo Model erprobt. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird gezeigt, wie für einen kritischen Strom, das Membranpotential eine fortschreitende Welle darstellt. / Classical methods for the direct computation of Hopf bifurcation points and other singularities rely on the evaluation and factorization of Jacobian matrices. In view of large scale problems arising from PDE discretization systems of the form f( x (t), α ), for t bigger than 0, where x are the state variables, α are certain parameters and f is smooth with respect to x and α, a matrix-free scheme is developed based exclusively on Jacobian-vector products and other first and second derivative vectors to obtain the critical parameter α causing the loss of stability at the Hopf point. In the present work, a system of equations is defined to locate Hopf points, iteratively, extending the system equations with a scalar test function φ, based on a projection of the eigenspaces. Since the system f arises from a spatial discretization of an original set of PDEs, an error correction considering the different discretization procedures is presented. To satisfy the Hopf conditions a single parameter is adjusted independently or simultaneously with the state vector in a deflated iteration step, reaching herewith both: locating the critical parameter and accelerating the convergence rate of the system. As a practical experiment, the algorithm is presented for the Hopf point of a brain cell represented by the FitzHugh-Nagumo model. It will be shown how for a critical current, the membrane potential will present a travelling wave typical of an oscillatory behaviour.

Neste trabalho, são estudados os problemas de sincronismo de fase nas redes mestre-escravo de via única (OWMS), nas topologias Estrela Simples, Cadeia Simples e mista, através da Teoria Qualitativa de Equações Diferenciais, com ênfase no Teorema da Variedade Central. Através da Teoria das Bifurcações, analisa-se o comportamento dinâmico das malhas de sincronismo de fase (PLL) de segunda ordem que compõem cada rede, frente às variações nos seus parâmetros constitutivos. São utilizadas duas funções de excitação muito comuns na prática: o degrau e a rampa de fase, aplicadas pelo nó mestre. Em cada caso, discute-se a existência e a estabilidade do estado síncrono. A existência de pontos de equilíbrio não-hiperbólicos, não permite uma aproximação linear, e nesses casos é aplicado o Teorema da Variedade Central. Através dessa rigorosa técnica de simplificação de sistemas dinâmicos é possível fazer uma aproximação homeomórfica em torno desses pontos, preservando a orientação no espaço de fases. Desse modo, é possível determinar, localmente, suas estabilidades. / This work presents stability analysis of the syncronous state for three types of one-way master-slave time distribution network topologies: single star, single chain and both of them, mixed. Using bifurcation theory, the dynamical behavior of second-order phase-locked loops employed to extract the syncronous state in each node is analyzed in function of the constitutive parameters. Two usual inputs, the step and the ramp phase pertubations, are supposed to appear in the master node and, in each case, the existence and stability of the syncronous state are studied. For parameter combinations resulting in non hyperbolic synchronous states, the linear approximation does not provide any information, even about the local behaviour of the system. In this case, the center manifold theorem permits the construction of an equivalent vector field representing the asymptotic behaviour of the original system in the neighborhood of these points. Thus, the local stability can be determined.

Este trabalho apresenta um estudo qualitativo das equações diferenciais nãolineares que descrevem o sincronismo de fase nos PLLs de 3ª ordem que compõem redes OWMS de topologia mista, Estrela Simples e Cadeia Simples. O objetivo é determinar, através da Teoria de Bifurcações, os valores ou relações entre os parâmetros constitutivos da rede que permitam a existência e a estabilidade do estado síncrono, quando são aplicadas, no oscilador mestre, duas funções de excitação muito comuns na prática: o degrau e a rampa de fase. Na determinação da estabilidade dos pontos de equilíbrio, sob o ponto de vista de Lyapunov, a existência de pontos de equilíbrio não-hiperbólicos não permite uma aproximação linear e, nesses casos, é aplicado o Teorema da Variedade Central. Essa técnica de simplificação de sistemas dinâmicos permite fazer uma aproximação homeomórfica em torno desses pontos, preservando a orientação no espaço de fases e possibilitando determinar localmente suas estabilidades. / This work presents a qualitative study of the non-linear differential equations that describe the synchronous state in 3rd order PLLs that compose One-way masterslave time distribution networks with Single Star and Single Chain topologies. Using bifurcation theory, the dynamical behavior of third-order phase-locked loops employed to extract the syncronous state in each node is analyzed depending on constitutive node parameters when two usual inputs, the step and the ramp phase pertubations, are supposed to appear in the master node. When parameter combinations result in non hyperbolic synchronous states, from Lyapunov point of view, the linear approximation does not provide any information about the local behavior of the system. In this case, the center manifold theorem permits the construction of an equivalent vector field representing the asymptotic behavior of the original system in the neighborhood of these points. Thus, the local stability can be determined.