The basic components of a control system are:

  1. Input: This refers to the information or signals that are fed into the system to be controlled. Inputs can come from various sources, such as sensors, manual input devices, or other systems.

  2. Process: The process is where the input signals are manipulated or transformed to achieve the desired control objective. It involves various operations and calculations that determine the output of the system. The process can be physical (e.g., a manufacturing machine) or non-physical (e.g., software algorithm).

  3. Output: The output is the result or response of the control system based on the input and the process it went through. It could be a physical action, such as turning on a motor or adjusting a valve, or a non-physical response, such as displaying information on a screen or sending a signal to another system.

  4. Controller: The controller is the core component of the control system that takes input signals, processes them, and generates appropriate control signals to drive the system towards the desired state or maintain a specific condition. It typically includes a control algorithm or logic that determines the control actions based on the input signals and desired objectives.

  5. Feedback: Feedback is a crucial component that provides information about the actual output or performance of the system back to the controller. It allows the controller to compare the desired state with the actual state and make necessary adjustments to achieve or maintain the desired control outcomes. Feedback can be obtained through sensors or monitoring devices.

  6. Actuators: Actuators are the devices or mechanisms that receive the control signals from the controller and perform the physical actions necessary to change or influence the system's behavior. They can be motors, valves, relays, or any other mechanism that can carry out the required actions.

  These are the fundamental components of a control system. However, depending on the complexity and specific application, additional elements such as sensors, communication interfaces, power supplies, and safety features may also be included in the control system design.