What does a servomechanism control in a system?

A servomechanism is designed to control the position of an object by utilizing feedback. In a typical system, the servomechanism receives input signals, which are often derived from the desired position or trajectory of the object it is controlling. It continuously compares the current position of the object, usually measured by sensors, to the desired position. This feedback loop allows the servomechanism to make real-time adjustments to ensure the object reaches and maintains the intended position.

For example, in an application like robotic arms or automated machining tools, servomechanisms play a crucial role in achieving precise movements and positioning. The ability to adjust based on feedback is what distinguishes servomechanisms from other control systems, which may not require such constant adjustment or may focus on parameters such as speed or flow rate instead of positional accuracy.

This explanation highlights why feedback-based position control is fundamental to the operation of servomechanisms while demonstrating the specific applications and advantages of such systems in engineering scenarios.