position feedback control system

A servomechanism is an automatic device that uses feedback to correct the performance of a mechanism, specifically controlling mechanical position, velocity, or acceleration. These systems are crucial for allowing high-powered devices to be controlled by low-power signals.1

A typical servomechanism includes a controlled device, a command device, an error detector, an amplifier, and a servomotor. The error detector compares the desired position (command signal) with the actual position (feedback signal) to generate an error signal. This signal is amplified and used to drive the servomotor, which then adjusts the controlled device to its desired position. Applications range from automatic machine tools and satellite-tracking antennas to antiaircraft-gun control systems.1