English

Dynamical Systems as Functorial Realisations of Abstract Evolution Shapes

Category Theory 2026-07-20 v1 Dynamical Systems

Abstract

We develop a categorical framework for closed dynamical systems in which the abstract pattern of admissible evolutions is separated from its concrete realisation. A closed dynamical system is formulated as a functor X ⁣:SCX\colon S\to C from a small category SS, viewed as an abstract evolution shape, to a coefficient category CC. By varying SS and CC, this single definition encompasses many important examples including autonomous, non-autonomous, switched, hybrid, and stochastic systems. Within this framework, we introduce invariant subsystems, equilibria, and orbits in functorial terms. We then formulate convergence by combining a cosieve-based intrinsic notion of eventuality on the evolution shape with neighbourhood filters of invariant subsystems. Finally, we establish a categorical Lyapunov principle based on categorical sublevel neighbourhoods. This yields abstract stability and convergence criteria that recover the classical Lyapunov method in standard examples.

Cite

@article{arxiv.2607.17455,
  title  = {Dynamical Systems as Functorial Realisations of Abstract Evolution Shapes},
  author = {Bangxin Wang},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2607.17455},
  year   = {2026}
}

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32 pages