Generalized factorization for N x N Daniele-Khrapkov matrix functions

A generalization to N x N of the 2 x 2 Daniele-Khrapkov class of matrix-val ued functions is proposed. This class retains some of the features of the 2 x 2 Daniele-Khrapkov class, in particular, the presence of certain square- root functions in its definition. Functions of this class appear in the stu dy of finite-dimensional integrable systems. The paper concentrates on givi ng the main properties of the class, using them to outline a method for the study of the Wiener-Hopf factorization of the symbols of this class. This is done through examples that are completely worked out. One of these examp les corresponds to a particular case of the motion of a symmetric rigid bod y with a fixed point (Lagrange top). Copyright (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.