Energy Transformations
Energy Transformations
As explained in Energy, energy can be transformed from one form to another.
We can notate this using block diagrams.
A block diagram is a high level flowchart that helps visualise a system. In Systems Engineering we use Input, Process, Output diagrams, or IPO diagrams.
flowchart LR
op1[Input]
op2[Process]
op3[Output]
op1 --> op2 --> op3
These show us the inputs to a system, the process that occurs within the system, and the output.
Toaster - Electrical
Here is an example of how a simple IPO diagram works for a toaster.
flowchart LR
op1[Electrical Energy\nBread]
op2[Convert Electrical Energy\nto Heat]
op3[Toast]
op1 --> op2 --> op3
We can write multiple IPO digrams in a row to show how the sub-systems within a system operate together.
Electricity Generation
Here is a more complex set of IPO diagrams showing the different processes in generating electricity
Energy Source
flowchart LR
op1[Primary Energy Source\n\(Wind / Water / Steam\)]
op2[Capture Energy]
op3[Kinetic Energy]
op1 --> op2 --> op3
Mechanical Drive System
flowchart LR
op1[Kinetic Energy]
op2[Rotate Turbine]
op3[Mechanical Energy]
op1 --> op2 --> op3
Electricity Generation System
flowchart LR
op1[Mechanical Energy]
op2[Electromagnetic Induction]
op3[Electrical Energy]
op1 --> op2 --> op3
Distribution
flowchart LR
op1[Electrical Energy]
op2[Transmit Electricity]
op3[Electrical Energy\nDelivered to Users]
op1 --> op2 --> op3
You can see that the output from one IPO becomes the input for the next IPO.
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