Guides ยท Engineering
Basic Control Systems Basics
Understand feedback control
This guide introduces control systems: open-loop vs closed-loop control, feedback, setpoints, stability, and common pitfalls like overshoot and oscillation, with simple examples like thermostats.
- control systems
- feedback
- setpoint
- stability
- controller
Open vs closed loop
Open-loop ignores output; closed-loop uses feedback to correct errors.
Key parts
A sensor measures output, a controller computes error, and an actuator changes the system.
Stability and tuning
Too aggressive control can overshoot and oscillate; tuning balances speed vs stability.
Everyday examples
Thermostats, cruise control, and camera autofocus are all feedback systems.