Synchronization of dynamical networks under sampling

Motivated by the increasing interest in networked multi-agent systems and the wide number of applications in decentralized distributed control of smart grids, we address the problem of synchronization when each node (e.g., a microgrid, a distributed generator) is modeled as a linear-time continuous system whose output measurements are sent through communication links. However, the inclusion of a communication infrastructure adds new challenges to control strategies and some problems may arise such as time delays, packet losses, sampling period, just to name a few. In this work, we consider that data is sampled with homogeneous sampling periods. Then, using the concept of average passivity, we define the conditions for synchronizability when all nodes are identical and unstable dynamics are present. Additionally, results are extended to the case of non-uniform agents, and some simulations of synchronization in smart grids are introduced.