Central Mindanao University
College of Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Department
CONTROL ENGINEERING (LABORATORY)
LABORATORY ACTIVITY 6
SIGNAL FLOW GRAPH
Name Laurence E. Mejias
Class Section and Schedule BSME 3A (Monday 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM )
Device Computer No. 3
Software Edition Automation Studio 7.0 Educational
Central Mindanao University
College of Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Department
I. OBJECTIVES
At the end of the activity, the students are expected to,
• Understand the difference between a block diagram and a signal flow
graph.
• Convert a block diagram into a signal flow graph.
• Use Mason’s Gain formula to find the transfer function of a signal flow
graph.
II. INTRODUCTION
Signal flow graphs (SFGs) are a graphical representation used to depict the
flow of signals and their interactions within a system. Nodes represent system
components, while arrows depict the transmission of signals between them. SFGs
offer a concise and visual method for analyzing signal processing systems,
allowing engineers to understand how modifications in one part of the system can
influence others.
III. DISCUSSION (Answer and discuss these questions)
1. Differentiate a block diagram from a signal flow graph. What are the key
differences between the two?
Difference between Block Diagram and Signal Flow Graph:
Block Diagram:
• Block diagrams represent systems using blocks to represent
components or subsystems and lines to represent connections or
signals between them.
• Each block typically represents a physical component or a mathematical
operation.
• Arrows indicating flow direction may or may not be included, but the
focus is on the arrangement of blocks and connections.
Signal Flow Graph:
• Signal flow graphs emphasize the flow of signals through a system,
often depicting the input-output relationships more explicitly.
• Nodes represent variables or signals, and directed edges represent the
flow of signals between nodes.
• Mathematically, signal flow graphs can be used to describe and analyze
the interconnections of variables or signals in a system.
Central Mindanao University
College of Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Department
Key Differences:
• Block diagrams focus on the physical or functional layout of a system,
whereas signal flow graphs emphasize the flow of signals through the
system.
• Block diagrams may not explicitly show signal flow direction, while
signal flow graphs always indicate the direction of signal flow through
directed edges.
• Block diagrams are more intuitive for representing physical systems,
while signal flow graphs are often preferred for analyzing signal flow and
relationships in systems.
2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a block diagram vs a
signal flow graph? Enumerate and discuss. Give a minimum of three (3)
advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of Block Diagrams:
• Visual Representation: Block diagrams provide a clear visual
representation of system components and their interconnections,
making them easier to understand for engineers and designers.
• Physical Interpretation: They are well-suited for representing physical
systems and processes, facilitating easier integration of physical
components into the design.
• Modular Design: Block diagrams naturally lend themselves to
modular design approaches, allowing for easier partitioning of
complex systems into manageable subsystems.
Disadvantages of Block Diagrams:
• Limited Signal Flow Representation: Block diagrams may not provide
a detailed representation of signal flow, which can be a limitation for
systems analysis where signal paths are crucial.
• Complexity Management: In highly interconnected systems, block
diagrams can become overly complex, making it challenging to
maintain clarity and understandability.
• Limited Analytical Capability: While block diagrams are great for
visualization, they may not be as effective for rigorous mathematical
analysis, especially for signal flow dynamics.
Central Mindanao University
College of Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Department
Advantages of Signal Flow Graphs:
• Detailed Signal Flow Analysis: Signal flow graphs offer a more
detailed representation of signal flow paths, making them suitable for
rigorous analysis of system dynamics and control.
• Mathematical Rigor: They provide a formal mathematical framework
for analyzing signal flow and system behavior, enabling more precise
modeling and analysis.
• Ease of Modification: Signal flow graphs can be easily modified to
represent changes in system structure or dynamics, facilitating
iterative design processes and system optimization.
Disadvantages of Signal Flow Graphs:
•Complexity for Physical Systems: While effective for signal flow
analysis, signal flow graphs may not always provide an intuitive
representation of physical components, which can be a limitation for
engineers accustomed to block diagrams.
• Learning Curve: Understanding and manipulating signal flow graphs
require familiarity with graph theory and system dynamics concepts,
which may pose a learning curve for some users.
• Limited Visualization: Signal flow graphs may not be as visually
intuitive as block diagrams for representing complex systems,
potentially making it harder to convey system structures to non-
experts.
IV. MATERIALS
o Pen
o Paper
o Calculator
Central Mindanao University
College of Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Department
V. LABORATORY PROCEDURES
Signal Flow Graphs
1. Convert the block diagram to a signal flow graph and find its transfer
function.
Central Mindanao University
College of Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Department
Central Mindanao University
College of Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Department
2. Convert the block diagram to a signal flow graph and find its transfer
function.
3. Convert the block diagram to a signal flow graph and find its transfer
function.
Central Mindanao University
College of Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Department
VI. CONCLUSION (Discuss what you have learned based on the objectives)
In this laboratory activity, students delve into the fundamental concepts
of system representation through block diagrams and signal flow graphs. By
discerning the distinctions between these graphical representations,
students develop a solid comprehension of how systems are visualized and
analyzed in engineering contexts. Through hands-on exercises, they learn
to translate abstract system architectures into concrete visualizations,
grasping the essential components and interconnections that define system
behavior. This foundational understanding lays the groundwork for more
advanced studies in control theory and system analysis.
Furthermore, the activity guides students through the process of
converting block diagrams into signal flow graphs, enabling them to bridge
the gap between graphical representations and mathematical models. This
step-by-step approach empowers students to navigate complex system
structures, identifying signal paths and understanding the flow of information
Central Mindanao University
College of Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Department
within the system. By applying Mason's Gain formula to analyze signal flow
graphs, students gain proficiency in determining transfer functions, a critical
skill for designing and optimizing systems in engineering practice.
To enhance the learning experience, instructor may supplement the
laboratory activity with real-world examples and case studies that
demonstrate the practical applications of block diagrams and signal flow
graphs in various engineering domains. Encouraging students to explore
additional resources and engage in collaborative problem-solving exercises
can further deepen their understanding and foster critical thinking skills. By
emphasizing the relevance of these concepts in engineering practice and
providing opportunities for hands-on experimentation, instructors can
ensure that students not only grasp the theoretical principles but also
develop the practical skills necessary for success in their future endeavors.
VII. REFERENCES
https://miro.com/diagramming/what-is-a-block-
diagram/#:~:text=A%20block%20diagram%20is%20a,how%20they%20are%20al
l%20connected.
https://www.smartdraw.com/block-diagram/
https://www.edrawmax.com/block-diagram/
https://www.javatpoint.com/control-system-mason-gain-
formula#:~:text=MASON'S%20GAIN%20FORMULA&text=%E2%88%86%20%3
D%201%20%2D%20%5BSum%20of,.......
https://www.tutorialspoint.com/control_systems/control_systems_masons_gain_f
ormula.htm
