SIMULATION AND EVALUATION WITH ENERGY-SYSTEMS BLOCKS

By using blocks programmed for each symbol, models using energy system s language can now be computer-simulated directly, by-passing the math ematics, which is done automatically. Energy systems methodology was i ntroduced in 1967 to help aggregate systems overview and connect human verbal thinking to quantitative models constrained by principles of e nergy and hierarchy. The GENSYS library of symbol blocks for the simul ation program EXTEND, when connected on screen, sets up a system of eq uations and generates output graphs by sending information back and fo rth between the blocks. The process of programming helped define EMERG Y (spelled with an 'm'), empower and transformity mathematically so th at the simulations can plot quantity, flow, EMERGY, empower and transf ormity. Examples include ecological and economic systems. Blocks and m odels for elementary teaching use pictorial icons, which help bring sy stems modeling and simulation to general education without the necessi ty of writing equations. This paper explains the modeling concepts and how to prepare and use blocks.