With an example explain Open and Closed Loop Mechatronic systems.

Open and Closed Loop Mechatronic Systems

Mechatronics is the synergistic integration of mechanical, electrical, electronics, computer, and control systems to design efficient, reliable, and intelligent products and processes. The term was first coined by Tetsuro Mori of Yaskawa Electric Corporation in 1969.

1. Open-Loop Control Systems

In an open-loop control system, the control action is independent of the output. It does not use feedback to determine if the desired output has been achieved. The controller gives a command based on input settings, and the system executes it without checking the result.

Characteristics:

• Simple and inexpensive
• Easy to design
• Less accurate
• Not adaptive to external disturbances

Block Diagram:

Example:

Electric Heater without Thermostat
A heater is turned on by a timer set by the user. After a fixed time, it switches off, regardless of the room temperature. This may cause under-heating or overheating as there is no feedback mechanism to adjust the heating duration based on real-time conditions.

2. Closed-Loop Control Systems

In a closed-loop control system, the output is continuously monitored and compared with the desired input (setpoint). Based on the error (difference between actual and desired output), corrective actions are taken automatically to minimize the error.

Characteristics:

• More complex and expensive
• Accurate and reliable
• Adaptive to changes and disturbances
• Uses negative feedback

Block Diagram:

Example:

Room Heating System with Thermostat
A thermostat continuously measures the room temperature and compares it with the desired temperature. If the temperature is too low, the system increases fuel flow to the burner. If it’s too high, it reduces the fuel input. This feedback ensures that the room temperature is maintained at the desired level.