Sankey Charters are a type of diagrammatic graphical representation that is widely used in the fields of engineering, geology, and civil engineering. They allow for the visualization of complex interrelated systems and relationships between different elements. These diagrams are commonly used to represent the fluid flow, material flow, or time usage related to a particular system or process. In this article, we will explore the basics of how to create Sankey Charts with examples and provide an understanding of the principles and applications of such diagrams.
What is a Sankey Chart?
Sankey Charters are a type of diagrammatic graph that show the flow of data through a network of interrelated elements or objects. These diagrams are typically created using two or more axes. The two most common forms are the “top-down” Sankey chart and the “bottom-up” Sankey Chart. In the top-down Sankey Chart, flow is represented on the top axis from left to right. In the bottom-up Sankey Chart, the flow is represented on the bottom axis from right to left. The axes are usually horizontal.
How to Create a Sankey Chart?
To create Sankey charts, you can use different tools such as a computer program or even a pen and paper. However, the process of creating a Sankey chart is similar for both options. First, you need to decide on the scales for your axes. Each axis represents a different aspect of the diagram. The top axis represents the source, the bottom axis represents the sink, while the vertical axis represents the flow between the elements. Then, you need to identify the elements that make up the system or process you want to visualize. To do this, you can use different shapes in the diagram to represent the different elements in the diagram.
Once you have identified the elements, you then need to assign flows to each element in the diagram. The flow can be assigned based on various criteria such as the direction of flow, the amount of flow, the frequency of flow, or even the priority of flow. Finally, you can then label each element in the diagram with its source and sink and plot the flow for each element.
Principles and Applications of a Sankey Chart
A Sankey chart can show a wide range of data, including the flow of data through a network, the flow of materials through a system, or the flow of time used in a process. Here are some of the principles and applications of a Sankey chart:
-
Simplifying complex systems: A Sankey chart can simplify the complex relationships and interdependencies in a system or process by showing the flow of data, materials, or time involved.
-
Visualizing the flow of data: A Sankey chart can help to visualize the flow of data through a network by showing the source, sink, and the flow between the elements.
-
Analyzing interrelated systems: A Sankey chart can help to analyze the interrelated systems by identifying the source, sink, and the flow between the elements.
-
Estimating cost and time: A Sankey chart can help to estimate the cost and time required to implement a process, project, or system.
-
Developing process improvements: A Sankey chart can help to develop process improvements by identifying the areas where the flow of data, materials or time could be optimized.
In conclusion, Sankey charts are a powerful tool for visualizing complex interrelated systems and processes. They can help us to simplify complex systems, visualize flow, analyze interrelated system, estimate cost and time, and develop process improvements. By using Sankey charts, we can gain better insights into the systems we are working with and make more informed decisions. As such, it is crucial for all engineers, geologists, and civil engineers to understand the basics of Sankey charts and how to implement them in their respective fields.
SankeyMaster
SankeyMaster is your go-to tool for creating complex Sankey charts . Easily enter data and create Sankey charts that accurately reveal intricate data relationships.
