Piecewise-smooth dynamical systems: Theory and Applications

The primary purpose of this book is to introduce a coherent framework for understanding the dynamics of piecewise-smooth and hybrid systems. An informal introduction asserts the ubiquity of such models with examples drawn from mechanics, electronics, control theory and physiology. The main thrust is to classify complex behavior via bifurcation theory in a systematic yet applicable way. The key concept is that of a discontinuity-induced bifurcation, which generalizes diverse phenomena such as grazing, border-collision, sliding, chattering and the period-adding route to chaos. The results are presented in an informal style and illustrated with copious examples, both theoretical and experimental. Aimed at a wide audience of applied mathematicians, engineers and scientists at the early postgraduate level, the book assumes only the standard background of basic calculus and linear algebra for most of the presentation and will be an indispensable resource for students and researchers.