What function does a sensor serve in a control system?

In a control system, a sensor plays a crucial role by converting physical quantities into signals that can be interpreted by the system. This is fundamental because control systems operate on data, and sensors are the means by which they gather information about the environment or the processes being controlled.

For instance, if a temperature sensor is used, it measures the temperature of a substance and converts that measurement into an electrical signal, which can then be processed by a controller. This process allows the control system to monitor conditions and make necessary adjustments, thereby ensuring optimal operation according to predefined parameters.

Understanding this function is key to grasping how control systems utilize feedback to maintain desired performance, making it clear why the identification of sensors as converters of physical quantities is essential for both design and troubleshooting in control systems.