An algorithm is introduced, based on the Newton method, to stabilize c
haotic systems onto a desired periodic orbit utilizing the feedback of
an output sequence on accessible parameters. The method does not nece
ssarily rely on explicit knowledge of the system dynamics and only an
approximate location of the desired periodic orbit is required which c
an subsequently be automatically and accurately detected in the contro
l process. The algorithm is locally stable, has a fast convergence rat
e, is applicable to arbitrary dimensional systems, and is suitable for
experimental situations. In numerical simulations, a pair of periodic
ally forced, coupled Duffing oscillators is investigated, which produc
e a 4-D system.