finite state machine

A finite state machine (FSM) is a mathematical model used to design systems that can be in a limited number of conditions or "states." It transitions from one state to another based on inputs or events. Think of it like a flowchart that outlines how a system responds to different situations—such as a vending machine moving between idle, selecting, and dispensing states depending on user actions. FSMs are widely used in computing and engineering to model behaviors, control processes, and manage complex logic systematically, ensuring predictable and organized responses to various inputs.