Low-Dimensional Modelling of Dynamics via Computer Algebra

Abstract

I describe a method, particularly suitable to implementation by computer algebra, for the derivation of low-dimensional models of dynamical systems. The method is systematic and is based upon centre manifold theory. Computer code for the algorithm is relatively simple, robust and flexible. The method is applied to two examples: one a straightforward pitchfork bifurcation, and one being the dynamics of thin fluid films.