Huygens synchronization of three aligned clocks

Abstract This study examines the synchronization of three identical oscillators arranged in an array and coupled by small impacts, wherein each oscillator interacts solely with its nearest neighbour. The synchronized state, which is asymptotically stable, is characterized by phase opposition among alternating oscillators. We analyse the system using a non-linear discrete dynamical system based on a difference equation derived from the iteration of a plane diffeomorphism. We illustrate these results with the application to a system of three aligned Andronov clocks, showcasing their applicability to a broad range of oscillator systems.