All types of networks use a common terminology. The points on a network are called nodes and may be represented as circles of squares. The lines connecting the nodes are called arcs. There are basically three network models.
Types of Network Model
1. Minimum spanning Tree
2. Shortest-Route Technique
3. Maximum Flow technique
1.- Minimum spanning Tree
The minimum spanning tree technique determines the path through the network that that connects all the points while minimizing total distance. When the points represent houses in a subdivision, the minimal –spanning tree technique can be used to determine the best way to connect all of the houses to electrical power, water systems and so on, in a way that minimizes the total distance or length of power lines or water pipes. There is no origin or destination, the objective is inter connectivity.
2.- Shortest-Route Technique
This technique finds the shortest path through a network. There is an origin and a destination. For example, this technique can find the shortest route from one city to another through a network of roads.
3.- Maximum Flow technique
The maximal-flow technique finds the maximum flow of any quantity or substance through a network. This technique can determine for example, the maximum number of vehicles( cars, trucks and so forth) that can go through a network of roads from one location to another.
