On the existence of a stable limit cycle to a piecewise linear system in R 2

The present paper is devoted to the existence of limit cycles of planar piecewise linear (PWL) systems with two zones separated by a straight line and singularity of type “focus‐focus” and “focus‐center.” Our investigation is a supplement to the classification of Freire et al concerning the existence and number of the limit cycles depending on certain parameters. To prove existence of a stable limit cycle in the case “focus‐center,” we use a pure geometric approach. In the case “focus‐focus,” we prove existence of a special configuration of five parameters leading to the existence of a unique stable limit cycle, whose period can be found by solving a transcendent equation. An estimate of this period is obtained. We apply this theory on a two‐dimensional system describing the qualitative behavior of a two‐dimensional excitable membrane model.