Cybernetics: Master Control Processes and Functions

Bys: Ortega, Montclair and Guelrifo, Eduardo

A first-order cybernetic system essentially comprises a feedback and control process as shown on the right. Cybernetic systems have a defined Goal within a finite environment; a means to measure change (or deviation) from the goal (a Sensor) and a means to influence the environment in which it exists (an Actuator). The systems also have a Comparator to determine what to do based on the deviation from a predefined program or set of rules. It is known as an 'Observed' system as the Observer of the system is not part of the system itself.
The system can be mechanical, biological, or a combination of both. The example shown on the right is for a cooling system where all parts of the system are automatic.
A second-order cybernetic system has the same Observed System, but we have an extra loop that goes back to an Observing system (see right). This Observing System has a different goal and can modify the goal of the Observed System to achieve its own goal. It's important to note that the Observer is now part of the overall cybernetic process.
So back to our example of a cooling system.
The cooling system continues to function, but there is no feedback to the Observing System - which is in this case a human who is now part of the cybernetic process.
The human's goal is managing its own level of comfort, and its output is to reach out and change the target room temperature for the cooling system.
So this is all lovely, but how does it relate to design? Design is often something that just seems to happen....it often feels like one natural, organic process. However, when we start to bring machines into the process it is useful to consider what these processes are and what we are asking of our systems.
1st order cybernetic systems are easy to grasp in terms of design. We have a very clear, singular objective and a system monitors the achievement of the objective and makes adjustments.
In this example, we want to draw a circle - the target image. The target image is fully defined and therefore the system is a 1st order mark-making system.
The brain sends signals to the musculoskeletal system to move the pen tip and makes a mark on the paper. As we are progressing with the task the brain is processing input from the eyes and is modifying the inputs to the musculoskeletal system and pen.
The process is hopefully successful in achieving the desired outcome (although they do say that drawing a perfect circle is a sign of insanity!!!). Note that this whole system could also be a machine - allowing much more complex images to be reproduced provided they can be defined.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0BSJC379Q
• ISBN13: 9798374375930
• Release Date: January 2023
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 104 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 8.5" x 8.5"