What is a Signal Flow Graph?
A Signal Flow Graph (SFG) is a directed edge and node-based visual depiction of the dynamics of a system. Variables or signals are represented by nodes, while the signal flow between them is shown by edges. SFGs are widely used in control theory because they provide an easy-to-understand representation of intricate system relationships, which helps with analysis and optimization.
Before we begin, let’s understand the basic elements of a Signal Flow Graph, we will see an actual Signal Flow Graph.
Basic Elements of Signal Flow Graph
Signal Flow Graphs are a crucial component of control systems. Furthermore, the control system is one of the most significant subjects in Electronics. It is primarily covered in the sixth semester of the B.Tech syllabus, though individual universities may alter it based on their syllabus hierarchy. To understand Signal Flow Graph let’s understand the Control System first, then we will dive into the main topic. When we put some inputs into a particular electronic device, it computes the signal or data and results in an output, this is what a Control System does.
A similar process is used with the Signal Flow Graph. Engineers can quickly compute and comprehend how the system operates by inserting the signal at one end and adding electronic devices in between to compute data using algebraic equations.
Table of Content
- What is a Signal Flow Graph?
- Basic Elements of Signal Flow Graph
- How to build Signal Flow Graph?
- Mason Gain Formula with Example
- Signal Flow Graph from Block Diagram
- Applications of SFG
- Advantages and Disadvantages of SFG