The spelling of the phrase "open loop" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first word, "open," is spelled [ˈoʊpən], with an "o" sound as in "ocean," a long "e" sound, and a soft "n" at the end. The second word, "loop," is spelled [lup], with a short "oo" sound like in "book" and a "p" at the end. Together, the phrase is pronounced as [ˈoʊpən lup], meaning a system or process that does not have feedback.
Open loop refers to a system or process where there is no feedback mechanism or control loop to adjust or correct the output based on the input. In an open loop system, the output is determined solely by the input and there is no provision to monitor or modify the output based on the actual performance or condition of the system.
In the context of control systems, an open loop system operates without any sensors or feedback mechanism to measure or regulate the system's output. The control action is based solely on the predetermined input, allowing it to produce a fixed, predetermined output regardless of any disturbances or changes in the environment. This lack of feedback makes open loop systems highly susceptible to disturbances, errors, and inaccuracies, as they are unable to detect or correct deviations from the desired output.
Open loop systems are commonly found in simple processes or machines where the output does not need to be closely controlled or where accuracy is not critical. For example, a ceiling fan with a single-speed switch operates as an open loop system since it runs at a fixed speed regardless of the room temperature or humidity.
In contrast, closed-loop systems, also known as feedback control systems, incorporate sensors or feedback mechanisms to monitor the system's output and adjust the inputs accordingly. This enables closed-loop systems to continuously regulate and correct the output, providing improved accuracy and stability compared to open loop systems.
The term "open loop" originates from the field of control theory and engineering. "Loop" in this context refers to a feedback loop, which is a system where the output of a process is used as input to that same process, creating a loop of information or signals.
The term "open loop" is used to describe a control system in which there is no feedback mechanism. In other words, the output of the system does not affect or correct the input. It is an unregulated or one-way process.
The usage of the term "open loop" in control theory was first recorded in the early 20th century, with its etymology deriving from the concept of a loop that is "open" or not closed. As opposed to a closed loop system, an open loop system lacks self-regulation and relies solely on the initial instructions or inputs provided.