Intelligent control is a research field and engineering methodology concerned with the design of control systems that incorporate artificial intelligence techniques. It investigates how to achieve robust, adaptive, and optimal control of complex, dynamic, and uncertain systems, often lacking precise mathematical models. Key characteristics include the ability to learn from data, adapt to changing conditions, handle nonlinearity and uncertainty, and often involve elements of reasoning, decision-making, and optimization. Its significance lies in enabling advanced automation and performance for systems where traditional control methods are insufficient or impractical.