Control Systems
Systems that regulate the behavior of other systems using feedback mechanisms.
Also: PID control · feedback control
Definition
Control systems are engineering systems designed to regulate, command, direct, or manage the behavior of other systems or processes. They typically use feedback loops where sensor measurements of output are compared to a desired setpoint, and the error signal is used to adjust the input. Types include open-loop (no feedback) and closed-loop (feedback) systems. PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controllers are among the most common implementations.
Example
“A cruise control system in a car is a closed-loop control system: it continuously measures actual vehicle speed, compares it to the set speed, and automatically adjusts the throttle to eliminate the difference and maintain constant speed.”
Synonyms
- feedback control
- automatic control
- regulation system
Antonyms / Opposites
- open-loop system
- manual control
Images
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Related Terms
- PID Controller
- Feedback Loop
- Transfer Function
- Stability Analysis