3D Generating Surfaces in Hamiltonian Systems with Three Degrees of Freedom – I

Abstract

In our earlier research (see [Katsanikas & Wiggins, 2021a , 2021b , 2023a , 2023b , 2023c ]), we developed two methods for creating dividing surfaces, either based on periodic orbits or two-dimensional generating surfaces. These methods were specifically designed for Hamiltonian systems with three or more degrees of freedom. Our prior work extended these dividing surfaces to more complex structures such as tori or cylinders, all within the energy surface of the Hamiltonian system. In this paper, we introduce a new method for constructing dividing surfaces. This method differs from our previous work in that it is based on 3D surfaces or geometrical objects, rather than periodic orbits or 2D generating surfaces (see [Katsanikas & Wiggins, 2023a ]). To explain and showcase the new method and to present the structure of these 3D surfaces, the paper provides examples involving Hamiltonian systems with three degrees of freedom. These examples cover both uncoupled and coupled cases of a quadratic normal form Hamiltonian system. Our current paper is the first in a series of two papers on this subject. This research is likely to be of interest to scholars and researchers in the field of Hamiltonian systems and dynamical systems, as it introduces innovative approaches to constructing dividing surfaces and exploring their applications.