Open Loop Control
Open loop control is a control system concept where the output is determined solely by the input, without using feedback from the system's actual performance to adjust the control action. It operates based on a predetermined set of instructions or a model, assuming that the system will behave as expected without external disturbances. This approach is simpler and faster than closed-loop control but is less accurate and robust to uncertainties.
Developers should learn open loop control when designing systems where feedback is unnecessary, too costly, or impossible to obtain, such as in simple automation tasks, pre-programmed sequences, or environments with predictable conditions. It is particularly useful in applications like basic robotic movements, timed operations in manufacturing, or initial prototyping where simplicity and speed are prioritized over precision. Understanding this concept helps in making informed decisions about when to use it versus more complex feedback-based systems.