Schematic Diagrams- Definition, Examples, & Benefits/Uses
A schematic diagram is a pictorial representation of a process or a structure. The main parts are labeled with text to show their function or relation to other parts, usually without regard to the physical form.
A schematic drawing is a low-level, relatively simple drawing that is used to design and document.
Schematic drawings are commonly used in electrical and mechanical engineering, business, chemistry, telecommunications, and software development.
What to Consider Before Drawing a Schematic Diagram
| • Rough output details • The details needed • Type of diagram • Type of application you’ll use • How the diagram will be used • The symbols required |
Rough output details
You need to know the output to create an accurate and effective graphical representation of any product or process. Understand what the end should be from the beginning to design a clear pathway.
For example, if you’re designing an electrical map, you should know the output is a complete circuit. The electrical schematic symbols and electron path should lead to the desired outcome.
If you’re designing an algorithm, you should know that it will be a set of instructions on how to perform a task. In both cases, this will help you draw your design more accurately and intelligently.
How much detail is needed?
You need to know what kind of schematic you are designing. That means, will the client need a layout for all functional components or just certain ones? Will there be small parts that must connect for the work to function correctly?
Do these smaller parts have to stay in place in case of an emergency? If so, you must label them so that the client can quickly and accurately see how much space is needed to add or remove any part.
For example, if you’re designing a plan for an electrical device, you’ll need to know the specific voltage and amperage requirements for each PowerPoint. A simple diagram will not change or damage components. However, if you don’t label the parts as such, they may be accidentally subjected to problems for which they aren’t designed.
What type of schematic diagram is it?
Different diagrams require various types of diagram symbols and labels. Some must be printed at a certain angle to make their meaning clear.
For example, if you’re designing an electrical diagram for an electrical device, you need to represent the circuit path in one direction. If you angle the PPT 90 degrees to what it should be, it will become incomprehensible and possibly ineffective.
If you’re designing the plan for an algorithm, then horizontal PPTs are usually required.
The type of application you’ll use
Most schematic diagrams are mainly drawn using computer software applications. For example, if you’re designing a plan for an electrical device, you’ll have to use software that allows the user to draw quality graphics.
How will the diagram be used?
After determining how complex the schematic diagram is and what kind of symbol is required, consider how it will be used when drawn.
For example, if you’re designing a schematic diagram for an electrical device, you’ll need to consider its scale. If you draw the design at 1/10 size or ten times larger than the actual size, then the product won’t work properly when completed. A good rule of thumb is to make sure the PPT is around half its real size.
What symbols are required?
If you’re unsure what symbols should be used in the schematic diagram, you can search online or in an electrical engineering PPT collection. However, take caution when using these sources to design one.
Most of them are intended for use by professionals who have experience in designing PPTs. Non-professionals may accidentally use an incorrect symbol.
Examples of Schematic Diagrams
The most common examples of schematic diagrams are:
Electrical diagrams/Wiring diagrams
Electrical engineers use these electrical circuit diagrams to design, test, and manufacture electronic devices.
Electrical schematic diagrams are often called circuit or schematic diagrams which show how a simple circuit works.
Pneumatic diagrams
Pneumatic schematic diagrams, also called pneumatic circuit diagrams, show how compressed air or other media flow.
These diagrams are typically used in industrial applications of pneumatic components, such as the distribution panelboard.
Software program flowchart
Software program diagrams show the step-by-step execution of a piece of computer software. They are primarily used to control the interface and the flow of a program’s source code.
These schematic diagrams, also known as flowcharts or pseudocode, are very helpful in software development. This is because they provide an easy way to visualize the execution flow.
Basic structural diagrams used by mechanical engineers
Mechanical engineering schematic diagrams are used to provide a simple diagrammatic representation of components.
A mechanical schematic diagram shows the relationships between parts in the system rather than the physical appearance of the components.
Chemistry schematic diagrams
Chemical engineers use schematic diagrams to represent chemical reactions or other processes.
Schematics that show how components interact in a system and the direction of energy flow through the system are called process diagrams.
Business schematic diagrams
Business experts use schematic diagrams to capture various parts of specific business processes. For example, marketing managers use business schematic diagrams to map the process of how products are brought to market.
Project managers also use process diagrams to track tasks, resources, and dependencies between tasks within a project.
Useful Tips for Drawing Accurate Schematic Diagrams
- Include brief descriptions where necessary.
- Stick to simple lines and common symbols for easier interpretation. Using complicated icons and shapes will beat the logic of having these diagrams.
- Use arrows when indicating current flow or data flow
- List the diagram symbols at the end of every schematic diagram and remember to caption all the main and major components
- Only add the major components of a process of equipment and keep it simple. Leave the other elements for detailed plans.
- Ensure you get the PPT scale right to make an appropriate design that will serve the intended purpose.
Benefits/Uses of Schematic Diagrams
Below are some of the benefits/uses of schematic diagrams:
- Schematic diagrams can be used to design, test, and manufacture mechanical components.
- They are often used in software development because they provide an easy way to visualize the execution flow.
- Electrical schematic diagrams show how a simple electronic circuit works and help in maintaining electronic equipment
- They can be used to design and document artifacts.
- They are low-level, relatively simple drawings that make it easy to understand how a simple machine works
- Schematic diagrams can function as an outline for a final diagram or drawing.
- They give the relationship between the parts in the system rather than the physical appearance of the components.
- They can also be used to make big pictures out of small ones, such as putting the parts of a system in order.
Summary
Schematic diagrams are commonly used in electrical and mechanical engineering, telecommunications, and software development. These diagrams are mainly made of lines and abstract symbols but provide loaded visual representation processes and structures.
Drawing accurate schematic diagrams requires expert-level knowledge and experience. They are usually used as a basis for other drawings such as flowcharts and wireframes.
These diagrams provide an easy way to visualize the execution flow of a system. They show how components interact in a system and where energy is flowing through it.
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