open loop
System without feedback
Open loop describes a system or process that operates without feedback—it executes commands without checking results or adjusting course.
In engineering, an open-loop controller sends signals but doesn't monitor outcomes: The sprinkler runs on a timer regardless of whether it's raining.
The opposite is closed loop, where output feeds back to influence input.
Figuratively, someone operating open loop isn't incorporating new information: He's completely open loop on this—doesn't know the project was cancelled.
- feedbackReturned response data
- control systemMechanism that regulates behavior
- controlAuthority to direct
- systemConnected parts forming whole
- closedNot accessible now
fly blind · input · output · signal · response · cruise control · manual · manual control · automatic · calibration · sensor · adjust · circuit · controller · process · uncontrolled · blind · dead reckoning
open loopclosed loop
System with continuous feedback
feedback control · self-regulating · self-correcting · cybernetic · homeostatic
open loopclosed loop
System with continuous feedback
closed circuit · feedback loop · recursive · return path · bidirectional
open, loop, opens, opened, opening, opener, openers, openings, openly