Introduction to Control Systems: Open-Loop vs. Closed-Loop

Control systems are fundamental to electrical engineering, enabling us to precisely manage and regulate the behavior of dynamic systems. Whether it's stabilizing voltage, controlling motor speed, or directing a robotic arm, control theory provides the framework. Understanding how systems respond to inputs and disturbances is crucial for designing reliable and efficient electrical applications. This chapter begins our exploration into this vital field.

At the most basic level, control systems can be categorized into two main types: open-loop and closed-loop. The distinction lies in whether the system uses feedback from its output to adjust its operation. This seemingly simple difference has profound implications for system performance, accuracy, and robustness.