The quotient signal flowgraph for large-scale systems

A system may have reached the large-scale condition either by displaying highly detailed element dynamics, or by exhibiting complicated connection patterns, or both. The quotient signal flowgraph (QSFG) is an approach to simplification of element dynamics. The principal feature of the QSFG concept is its stress upon making the simplificadon compatible with the connection structure. A context for the discussion is established on the generalized linear signal flowgraph (GLSFG), having node variables in an abelian group and flows determined by the morphisms of the group. A major class of examples is established, and an illustration is given from the applications literature.