# Why is the Kalman filter a filter and not a control system?

Why is the Kalman filter a filter and not a control system? The Kalman filter is a recursive filter which can be used to estimate the internal state of a linear dynamic system with noise in the signal(s). Isn't that the same as a traditional feedforward/feedback control structure (figure below)? The feedforward controller modification uses anticipated results in the form of a mathematical model, predicting. Then the feedback controller would update the state and give feedback, updating.

• olliw.eu/2013/imu-data-fusing i suggest reading this..it points out your conclusion...also reading about luenberg observers. But basically we use the kalman filter as a state observer to converge on current system state using noisy measurements and input...in reality the kalman filter isnt really a filter..its a state observer that works really well in noisy systems – morbo Aug 8 at 14:24

Referring to the block diagram, the KF block will be placed in the feedback path from the output $$y$$. Assuming the plant's output is observed by at least two sensors, the KF uses their readings to estimate the current state of the plant. All sensors are noisy, so how good the estimates are will be determined by how well sensor noise has been modeled. The state estimate produced by the KF is compared with the setpoint $$r$$ to obtain the error. Up until this point, no control action has taken place, the plant's current state has merely been observed. The control kicks in after you've determined the error. So the Kalman Filter is not really a control system.