What is described as operating without feedback and executing commands regardless of the output?

An open loop system is defined by its operation without feedback, meaning it executes commands based solely on input without taking the output into account. This type of system follows a predetermined set of instructions; it produces results based on the initial conditions and does not adjust or modify its actions based on the environment or outcomes.

For example, consider a simple example such as a toaster: once you set it to toast for a specific time, it will operate for that duration irrespective of whether the toast is done or if it's burning. The system does not monitor the actual state of the toast or adjust the heating elements based on that state. This characteristic of not utilizing feedback makes open loop systems straightforward to design and implement, but they can lack the adaptability of systems that do employ feedback mechanisms.

In contrast, closed loop systems continuously monitor their output and adjust their input based on this feedback, allowing for more precise control and adaptation to changing conditions. Feedback systems inherently require this feedback loop to function. Adaptive control systems further build on this concept by actively adjusting to changes in their environment or system dynamics to maintain optimal performance, which is not the case for open loop systems.