In this paper, the dynamics of local finite-time Lyapunov exponents of a 4D hyperchaotic system of integer or fractional order with a discontinuous right-hand side and as an initial value problem, are investigated graphically. It is shown that a discontinuous system of integer or fractional order cannot be numerically integrated using methods for continuous differential equations. A possible approach for discontinuous systems is presented. To integrate the initial value problem of fractional order or integer order, the discontinuous system is continuously approximated via Filippov's regularization and Cellina's Theorem. The Lyapunov exponents of the approximated system of integer or fractional order are represented as a function of two variables: as a function of two parameters, or as a function of the fractional order and one parameter, respectively. The obtained three-dimensional representation leads to comprehensive conclusions regarding the nature, differences and sign of the Lyapunov exponents in both integer order and fractional order cases.
Keywords: Caputo’s derivative; Lyapunov exponent; continuous approximation; discontinuous initial value problem; fractional-order system.