Open and closed Loop Systems

Open-Loop system

Closed-Loop  system

Open Loop System

Closed Loop System

The open and closed loop systems have been used in technology education and engineering classes for decades. Below you will find definitions of all the components of both systems, labeled diagrams, technology study game for the students, a work sheet, and quiz.

System: when multiple items work together to accomplish a task


Open - Loop System: a system that has an Input (Desired Product), a Process (means of producing that product), and an Output (Actual Product) but does not have a method of comparing the Output to the Input


Closed - Loop System: a system that has all the components of an Open - Loop System plus a means of monitoring and comparing the Output (Product) to the Input (Desired product) and making adjustments when needed.


Input : Desired result or product of a system


Process: The part of the system that produces the product using the 7 resources of technology (Capital, Energy, Information, Materials, People, Tool and machines, and time.


Output: the actual product made by the system, it does not have to be tangible


Monitor: part of the closed-loop system that evaluates the output (product)


Compare & Adjust: part of the closed-loop system that compares the output (product) to the Input (desired product and making necessary changes to the process in needed.

Open and Closed Loop learning Game

Directions: Label the diagrams with the correct words by dragging and dropping them. Some words may be used more then once. Press the submit button when finished. Capital Closed Compare & Adjust Energy Information Input Materials Monitor Open Output People Process Resources Time Tools & Machines

Loop System   Loop System Feedback © Content copyright 2013 TechEd LLC   of a System Must be in alphabetical order.

Review Questions


1. The part of a closed loop system that analysis the output that will be eventually compared to the input is called what?


2. Which system does not provide feedback that can be used for adjusting the process?


3. An acronym used to remember the 7 resources of Technology is TICTEMP. Write these letters vertically and write out the resource next to the letter. See the example below.
      T________________
       Information________
      C________________
      T________________
      E________________
      M________________
      P________________


4. A thermostat is an example of what type of system?


5. A light switch connected to a light is an example of what type of system?


6. What part of a system is the desired result or product?


7. What part of the system is the product?


8. What does the compare and adjust  part of a closed loop system do?


9. What is required for the process to work?