What are the key characteristics of a robust control system?

A robust control system is characterized by stability, reliability, and flexibility. Stability refers to the system's ability to maintain its performance over time without exhibiting oscillations or diverging from its desired state. Reliability indicates that the system can consistently perform its intended function under various conditions and disturbances without failure. Flexibility allows the control system to adjust and react to changes in the environment, system parameters, or operational conditions, ensuring that it continues to meet performance expectations even under varying situations.

While energy consumption and cost-effectiveness are important factors in system design, they do not fundamentally define robustness. Simplicity and minimal feedback may facilitate ease of understanding and implementation, but they could also lead to a lack of adaptability and performance in the presence of disturbances. Similarly, high bandwidth and low complexity might refer to certain desirable system traits, but if a system lacks stability and reliability, it cannot be considered robust. Therefore, a control system that embodies the qualities of stability, reliability, and flexibility is deemed robust and can effectively handle uncertainties and changes in operating conditions.