Models for q-commutative tuples of isometries

Abstract

A pair of Hilbert space linear operators $(V_1,V_2)$ is said to be $q$-commutative, for a unimodular complex number $q$, if $V_1V_2=qV_2V_1$. A concrete functional model for $q$-commutative pairs of isometries is obtained. The functional model is parametrized by a collection of Hilbert spaces and operators acting on them. As a consequence, the collection serves as a complete unitary invariance for $q$-commutative pairs of isometries. A $q$-commutative operator pair $(V_1,V_2)$ is said to be doubly $q$-commutative, if in addition, it satisfies $V_2V_1^*=qV_1^*V_2$. Doubly $q$-commutative pairs of isometries are also characterized. Special attention is given to doubly $q$-commutative pairs of shift operators. The notion of $q$-commutativity is then naturally extended to the case of general tuples of operators to obtain a similar model for tuples of $q$-commutative isometries.