ABSTRACT
In this opening chapter, we present fundamental ideas of control theory through simple examples. These fundamental ideas apply no matter what mathematical or engineering techniques are employed to solve the control problem. The examples clearly identify the concepts underlying open-loop and closed-loop control systems. The need for feedback is recognized as an important component in controlling or regulating system performance. In the next chapter, we will present examples of classical modern control theory systems that rely on mathematical models, and in the remainder of this book, we explore possible alternatives to a rigid mathematical model approach. These alternative approaches – fuzzy, neural, and combinations of these – provide alternative designs for autonomous intelligent control systems.
