Event Details
Energy Systems and the Device Paradigm
Presenter: Dr. Ged McLean
Supervisor:
Date: Thu, February 15, 2001
Time: 14:00:00 - 15:00:00
Place: EOW 430
ABSTRACT
Abstract
In the early 1980's the American philosopher Albert Borgman devised the 'Device Paradigm' to explain the way cultural practises are disrupted by the introduction of technology. Although it is doubtful that Borgman ever anticipated his work would be used by engineers for practical purposes, I have found his idea's about technology evolution to be a useful conceptual framework for helping to both understand and predict the way technological change occurs. This is particularly true in the case of energy systems development where we are witnessing a fundamental shift from combustion to post-combustion energy conversion technologies.
In this presentation I will introduce Borgman's 'device paradigm' which is rooted in the concept of technological availability. I will then provide examples from energy systems to illustrate the device paradigm in action, leading to some ideas about how our energy system will evolve for the foreseeable future. The role of fuel cells and easily produced energy currencies such as hydrogen will be reviewed from Borgman's perspective.
All are welcome to attend.
Susan Walton
Institute for Integrated Energy Systems (IESVic)
(250) 721-6295