I think in the solar world, open loop refers to the traditional battery sensing using measured voltage.
Closed loop refers to connecting batteries with internal battery monitoring systems (BMS) using a data cable or RF, to a device that speaks it's language, and can query the batteries condition and base charging and discharging on that information.

-Glenn

On Sep 5, 2025 13:59, Dana Orzel via RE-wrenches <[email protected]> wrote:

As our technology moves fwd. with more & more engineering level options; at times I feel ignorant & lost.  I went online to try to understand these options.

Is this an accurate explanation? Yes, it is true I am a grey-haired RE dinosaurJ

 

Does anyone have additional explanations /definitions that are relevant to in particular LI batteries & associated BMS controls?

__________________________________________________________________

 

An open-loop system operates on a pre-set input without using the output to make corrections, resulting in a simple, low-cost design but poor accuracy and adaptability to changing conditions. In contrast, a closed-loop system uses feedback to continuously compare the actual output to a desired output, making real-time adjustments to maintain accuracy and compensate for disturbances, though it is more complex and costly.
 

Open-Loop Systems (Non-Feedback Systems)

  • How it works:

The system's control action is independent of the system's output. Once an input is given, the system operates without measuring or considering the result. 

    Characteristics:

  • Simple, straightforward design. 

    Low cost and easy to implement. 

    Operates more swiftly due to the absence of feedback processing. 

    Immune to feedback-related issues. 

  •  

  Examples:

A hand dryer that runs for a set time regardless of whether hands are dry, a toaster that heats for a fixed duration, or a simple electric mixer. 

  •  

Closed-Loop Systems (Feedback Control Systems)

  • How it works:

The system's output is measured and fed back to the controller, which compares it to the desired setpoint. The controller then makes adjustments to the input to minimize the error between the actual and desired output. 

    Characteristics:

  • Self-regulating and self-correcting. 

    High accuracy and adaptability to changing conditions. 

    Requires additional components like sensors and control algorithms, leading to increased complexity and cost. 

    May experience a slight delay due to the feedback loop. 

  •  

  Examples:

An automatic cruise control system that adjusts engine power to maintain a set speed, or a thermostat that turns the heater on or off to reach a desired temperature. 

 

 

_________________________________________________________

Dana Orzel                GREAT SOLAR WORKS!                      

C – 208.721.7003      E – [email protected]

W - www. greatsolarworks.com     www.solarwork.com

“Responsible Technologies for Responsible People since 1988!”

 


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