4 MATHEMATICAL MODEL OF A CONTROL SYSTEM

ELEC207 - Control Theory [Lecture 1: Introduction]

Prof Simon Maskell, <s.maskell@liverpool.ac.uk>

January 27, 2023

1 Lecture Learning Objectives

ˆ Function, architecture, history and applications of a control system

ˆ Open-loop and closed-loop systems

ˆ Mathematical model of a control system

2 Function, architecture, history and applications of a con-

trol system
Control is making machines do what they are supposed to do. It was arguably the first multi-
disciplinary subject.
Control has had and continues to have many applications, for example:
ˆ Manufacturing Processes;

ˆ Autonomous systems (eg Unmanned Air Vehicles).

3 Open-loop and closed-loop systems

The use of a sensor to provide feedback is the crucial idea:
ˆ Open-loop control systems (with no feedback) are very hard to design.

ˆ Closed-loop control systems (with feedback) are much easier to get to work.

4 Mathematical model of a control system

An open-loop control system is depicted in figure 1. A common decomposition of the plant is shown
in figure 2. A closed-loop control system is shown in figure 3.

ELEC207 Lecture Notes: Lecture 1 (Introduction), Page 1

 4 MATHEMATICAL MODEL OF A CONTROL SYSTEM

Figure 1: Open Loop Control System

Figure 2: Plant

ELEC207 Lecture Notes: Lecture 1 (Introduction), Page 2

 4 MATHEMATICAL MODEL OF A CONTROL SYSTEM

Figure 3: Closed Loop Control System

ELEC207 Lecture Notes: Lecture 1 (Introduction), Page 3