SHS2 Robotics · Semester 1 Week 18: Sensors & Actuators

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 2.1.3.LI.2 - Plot a Rotation-Distance graph for different scenarios of wheeled robots and observe how the resultant graph relates to the geometric dimensions of a robot.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Conduct a demonstration with a wheeled robot and record the number of wheel rotations alongside the linear distance travelled for at least three different scenarios.
Plot an accurate Rotation-Distance graph on graph paper, correctly labelling both axes with appropriate units and scaling.
Interpret the slope of the Rotation-Distance graph and explain how it relates to the circumference of the robot’s wheel.
Derive the mathematical relationship between distance travelled, number of rotations, and wheel diameter for a wheeled robot.
Predict the distance a robot will travel given a specific number of wheel rotations, using the geometric dimensions of the robot’s wheels.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Principles of Robotic Systems (Strand 1)
Sub-strand: Sensors & Actuators (1.3)
Content standard: 2.1.3.CS.2 - 2.1.3.CS.2 Demonstrate knowledge of the application of equations in the programmatic implementation of analogue to digital conversion and control of actuators. 2.1.3.LO.2 Use mathematical knowledge for sensor data manipulation and application for digital control of actuators.
Indicator: 2.1.3.LI.2 - Plot a Rotation-Distance graph for different scenarios of wheeled robots and observe how the resultant graph relates to the geometric dimensions of a robot.
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 18 (Week 18 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 97

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Project-Based Learning: Use a rotation distance graph to explain linear and angular distances covered by wheeled robots and derive mathematical relationships that relate the distances covered to the geometric dimensions of the robot used.

Learners observe a demonstration and plot a rotation distance graph reflecting it. Learners share with the class for comments.

Assessment (2.1.3.AS.2). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.

Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Computers with required programming IDEs
- Sensors connected to a processing unit or a built programmable robot
- Built and programmable Robots
- Graph books
- Mathematical Sets
- French Curves