  Multi-scale feedback systems, where information cycles through micro- and
macro-scales leading to adaptation, are ubiquitous across domains, from animal
societies and human organisations to electric grids and neural networks.
Studies on the effects of timing on system properties are often domain
specific. The Multi-Scale Abstraction Feedbacks (MSAF) design pattern aims to
generalise the description and understanding of multi-scale systems where
feedback occurs across scales. We expand on MSAF to include timing
considerations. We then apply these considerations to two models: a
hierarchical oscillator (HO) and a hierarchical cellular automata (HCA).
Results show how (i) different timing configurations significantly affect
system macro-properties and (ii) different regions of time configurations can
lead to the same macro-properties. These results contribute to theory, while
also providing useful insights for designing and controlling such systems.

Systems and Control;Systems and Control;Adaptation and Self-Organizing Systems