Abstract. We discuss approximations of vertex couplings of quantum graphs using families of thin branched manifolds. We show that if a Neumann type Laplacian on such manifolds is amended by suitable potentials, the resulting Schrödinger operators can approximate non-trivial vertex couplings. The latter include not only the δ-couplings but also those with wavefunctions discontinuous at the vertex. We work out the example of the symmetric δ ′-couplings and conjecture that the same method can be applied to all couplings invariant with respect to the time reversal. 1.

Abstract. Quantum networks are often modelled using Schrödinger operators on metric graphs. To give meaning to such models one has to know how to interpret the boundary conditions which match the wave functions at the graph vertices. In this article we give a survey, technically not too heavy, of several recent results which serve this purpose. Specifically, we consider approximations by means of “fat graphs ” — in other words, suitable families of shrinking manifolds — and discuss convergence of the spectra and resonances in such a setting.