Feedback is defined as the information gained about a reaction to a product, which will allow the modification of the product. Source: https://www.albert.io/blog/positive-negative-feedback-loops-biology/
Feedback loop is the response received from a stimuli, which is then fed back to alter the stimuli which in turn tweaks the consequent response or reaction. This process goes on till an equilibrium or desired response has been acquired.
There are two kinds of feedback loops : Positive and Negative. (Universal Principles of Design, pg. 92-93)
Positive Feedback Loop : amplifies system output, resulting in growth or decline. These are effective in creating change but generally result in negative consequence.
Negative Feedback Loop : dampens output, stabilizing the system around an equilibrium point. These are effective for resisting change.
Fly-by-wire control systems use the Feedback loop strategy to perform tasks without pilot input.
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Temperature regulation in humans occurs constantly. Normal human body temperature is approximately 98.6°F. When body temperature rises above this, two mechanisms kick in the body begins to sweat, and vasodilation occurs to allow more of the blood surface area to be exposed to the cooler external environment. As the sweat cools, it causes evaporative cooling, while the blood vessels cause convective cooling. Normal temperature is regained. Should these cooling mechanisms continue, the body will become cold. The mechanisms which then kick in are the formation of goose bumps, and vasoconstriction. Goosebumps in other mammals raise the hair or fur, allowing more heat to be retained. In humans, they tighten the surrounding skin, reducing (slightly) the surface area from which to lose heat. Vasoconstriction ensures that only a small surface area of the veins is exposed to the cooler outside temperature, retaining heat. Normal temperature is regained.
Images from real life
Let’s say you are driving just a little too fast and you pass a digital radar sign that says, “Your Speed Is…” and displays the current speed of your car as you pass. Our first instinct is to press the brake pedal and slow down till we are close to the desired speed.
These signs are one example of a feedback loop. The output of your current behavior (driving too fast) becomes the input for your new behavior (slowing down).
I really liked your sketch on here as an example! Good use of the sketching book 🙂
An example of feedback for me is when I ask Alexa to play a song. Right away, she starts playing something. The immediacy of her response let’s me know that the Alexa is working, and also amazes me how quickly it happened.
Hi Shreya! Thank you!I couldn’t imagine myself taking pictures while I drove towards a speed radar 😀 Hence the sketch!
I think the example you gave here has more to do with Feedback and not Feedback Loop. Both of these are different, as per my research. Feedback is a response which is applicable to the Alexa example you cited. Here is a Ted video that explains Feedback Loops in nature https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inVZoI1AkC8