SYDE 554Nonlinear Dynamic Systems

This course introduces nonlinear systems with applications in realistic ecological, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering systems. The properties of those systems are investigated via analytical and numerical tools, with particular application to MEMS and NEMS actuators & sensors. Students will develop knowledge and appreciation of the following concepts and tools: differences between linear and nonlinear dynamic systems; autonomous and non-autonomous systems; existence and uniqueness of solutions; equilibrium points and limit cycles; phase plane analysis; nonlinear phenomena; Poincare section analysis; multi-frequency oscillations; notions of system stability (e.g., Lyapunov functions).