Lab – Compare Closed-Loop and Open-Loop Control Systems

Objective
In this activity, you will compare closed-loop and open-loop control systems.

Background/Scenario
An open-loop control system does not monitor the output in order to determine what adjustments to make to
the input. For example, when using a clothes dryer you might set the timer on the dryer to run the drying cycle
for one hour. At the end of the hour, the dryer will stop. The level of dryness of the clothes will vary depending
upon their level of wetness at the beginning of the cycle.
In a closed-loop control system, the output is measured to determine whether it is the desired output and
adjust the input as appropriate. For example, if the clothes dryer is equipped with moisture sensors, the input
may be a level of dryness that adjusts the cycle by extending the drying time until the sensors indicate the
clothes are dried to a desired level.
Compare the systems listed in the table and determine if they are closed-loop or open-loop control systems.
Briefly explain your selections in the space provided.

Systems Open/Closed Loop Explain Your Answer

Clothes dryer with moisture sensor Closed The moisture sensors provide measured
output that is compared to a reference for
desired dryness. The controller will extend
the drying cycle until the input and output are
equal.
open The light switch is independent
Light switch to turn on the light
Closed Its goal is to minimize the difference between the
Thermostat to keep a desired and measured temperatures.
constant temperature
Open Depending on the volume switch's capacity
Volume on a radio

Vehicle ignition
Open
Vehicle ignition switch

switch Open
Press engine,
engine starts
done
Press engine, engine starts done
Open The fan may be switched on or off, and the speed
Ceiling fan can be increased or decreased.
Closed It aims to reduce water use in the machine, therefore
Clothes washing machine with
there will be a controller and input from the sensor,
water level sensor
which will make modifications.
From the Open Loop systems, select one and describe how you might make it a Closed Loop system:
 Add a controller in a fan to monitor the room's temperature and adjust the tachometer accordingly.

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