Feedback Loops

The relay of information describing the state of the system from lower nodes to upper level nodes for the intended purpose of allowing the control center to adjust the system state as needed. It takes the form of a loop when viewing information flow since commands are sent to lower nodes for the execution of actions. The lower nodes monitor the effect of the actions on the system or environment and provide feedback by reporting their findings back to the command center thereby completing the loop.(Koestler, 1967)

Written By

Keith Cunningham kc3@cec.wustl.edu Last updated 10/8/94