Systems and Sub-System Diagrams
Systems and Sub-System Diagrams
System Overview
- A system can be described as a set of interconnected components that work together to achieve a common goal.
- In large, complex systems, it can be helpful to break down the system into smaller parts or sub-systems for better understanding and management.
System Diagrams
- System diagrams are visual representations of the various elements within a system.
- They show the components of the system, how they're connected and their working relationships.
- They also show the system's boundaries, which outline the extent of the system.
Sub-system Diagrams
- Sub-system diagrams are diagrams of the smaller parts of a system.
- They provide a detailed view of a part of the system, showing specific processes and functions of that sub-system.
- Sub-system diagrams make it easier to study and manage complex systems by breaking them down into more manageable parts.
Identifying Sub-systems
- A sub-system is identifiable when it has a specific functionality within a system that can be isolated and studied separately.
- Sub-systems can be broken down further into smaller sub-systems.
Interconnections
- Understanding how sub-systems connect and interact is crucial for understanding the system as a whole.
- Interconnections can take the form of data, control signals, power, or physical connections.
Use in Problem Solving
- System and sub-system diagrams are useful tools in engineering problem solving and design processes.
- They can help identify problems, guide system modifications, and aid in the development of new systems.
Symbols in Diagrams
- Diagrams use a variety of symbols to represent real-world components and their relationships.
- It is essential to understand the meaning of these symbols to accurately interpret the diagrams.
Block Diagrams
- Block diagrams are a type of system diagram that uses blocks to represent system components and arrows to show the flow of information or signals.
- They are a high-level representation of a system, showing major elements and their interconnections, often without detail about the inner workings of the elements.
Please remember to reference your course material and textbooks to calibrate your understanding of this topic.