Multistability in networks of weakly coupled bistable units

Abstract

We study the stationary states of networks consisting of weakly coupled bistable units. We prove the existence of a high multiplicity of stable steady states in networks with very general inter-unit dynamics. We present a method for estimating the critical coupling strength below which these stationary states persist in the network. In some cases, the presence of time-independent localized states in the system can be regarded as a `propagation failure' phenomenon. We analyse this type of behaviour in the case of diffusive networks whose elements are described by one or two variables and give concrete examples.