Chapter 10 - Analysis of Analog Circuits and Models

Abstract

This chapter analyzes systems composed of analog elements. When electrical elements are involved, the analysis of such systems is known as network analysis or circuit analysis. Usually such systems are standard electric circuits, but occasionally they are analog representations of physiological mechanisms. Conservation laws are invoked to generate an orderly set of descriptive equations from any collection of mechanical or electrical elements. In electric circuits, the law of conservation of energy leads directly to Kirchhoff's voltage law (KVL) which states that the voltages around the loop must sum to zero. Combining this rule with the phasor representation of network elements leads to an analysis technique known as mesh analysis. In mesh analysis, equations are constructed as an extension of Ohm's law. These equations are solved for the mesh currents, which then can be used to determine any voltage in the system. This chapter discusses the basics of conservation laws, Kirchhoff's voltage law, and Kirchhoff's current law. Newton's law for mechanical systems is explained. Concepts of resonant frequency and resonant bandwidth are also presented in the chapter.