Patterns & Metaphors
Meetings as energy-processing configurations
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The following are useful metaphors through which energy processing in meetings may be understood in new ways:
[1. Antenna:] For which the constituent elements are precisely located in relation to one another to constitute a configuration (often parabolic) to focus incoming electromagnetic radiation for subsequent processing. The orientation of the configuration as a whole is vital to its operation, as in the case of the microwave receiver or the radio-telescope.
[2. Magnetic "bottle":] Whereby a configuration of precisely located magnets is used to contain plasma in such a way that its temperature may be maintained at over one million degrees for a period of seconds in order that fusion can take place (as an alternative source of energy to nuclear fission). It is only through the use of magnetic forces that the plasma may be kept from destroying any material container.
[3. Reactor:] In which particular attention is given to the configuration of heating, cooling, agitating, input and output elements, in order that an optimum transformation of materials should take place. This applies as much to the simple crucible, although the precision and symmetry of the configuration is most evident in nuclear reactor design.
[4. Mirror configurations:] As used for focusing sunlight in certain solar power furnaces, or alternatively for directing light, as in search-lights and lighthouses.
[5. Optical systems of lenses:] As used in telescopes and microscopes.
[6. Acoustical configurations of walls and baffles:] As used in an auditorium, required to ensure the balanced distribution of sound and the elimination of unwanted echoes.
[7. Electric motor or generator:] In which electricity is used or generated by the controlled movement of one configuration of elements in relation to another due to the effects of polarized forces operating in phase.
[8. Factory complex:] Usually designed with special attention to the transfer of energy and materials to processing locations which are therefore appropriately arranged in relation to each other. Usually located in relation to natural resources, a transport nexus or associated factories.
