Intralayer Synchronization in Heterogeneous Multiplex Dynamical Networks Based on Spectral Graph Theory

Abstract

This paper studies a heterogeneous multiplex network model that allows different dynamics in different layers. We explore intralayer synchronization of the multiplex network under distinct types of interlayer connections. From the perspective of spectral graph theory, we propose a set of edge weight requirements to synchronize the multiplex network. Focusing on the effect of interlayer connections to intralayer synchronization, it is found that a multiplex network can achieve intralayer synchronization with a large enough interlayer coupling strength even if a single network of one layer cannot synchronize by itself. In fact, the synchronizability of the multiplex network is found to be stronger than that of the single-layer network. These results provide insights into the practical application of multiplex network theory in engineering networks.