I can predict open-loop rover motion and explain the limitations of time-based commands.
POE Unit 3 • Lesson 3.5
Open-Loop Rover Control
Focus question: How can time, speed, and command sequence control rover motion without sensor feedback?
Mission Briefing
Today’s Plan
A focused sequence that advances the rover and VEX ground-support mission.
Opening promptConcept modelGuided practiceInteractive applicationEvidence checkExit ticket
Lesson Targets
What You Will Be Able to Do
Timed-motion prediction
The prediction uses consistent units and identifies why wheel slip or battery change can cause error.
Activity Flow
How the Lesson Moves
Each step builds the control-systems reasoning needed for today’s deliverable.
1. Calibrate motion
Measure distance traveled for a known speed and time.
2. Predict a command
Use the calibration to select a travel time.
3. Evaluate error
Compare predicted and actual motion and identify disturbance sources.
Lesson Interactive
Timed-motion prediction Practice
Apply the lesson concept to an aerospace rover or VEX ground-support scenario. Use the feedback to correct reasoning before documenting the main deliverable.
Timed Motion Predictor
600 mmPredicted distance
40 mmError if actual = 560 mm
Explain the Limitation
Use distance = speed × time, then distinguish prediction error from calculation error.
Today’s Work
Main Deliverable
Open-Loop Motion Calibration
Create one focused engineering artifact that demonstrates today’s learning.
- Record at least three speed-time-distance trials and calculate a predicted command.
- Explain one source of open-loop error and how it affects mission accuracy.
Exit Ticket
Mission Debrief
State one control-systems or automation idea from today in your own words.
Name one measurement, calculation, trace, or test result that supports your design decision.
Identify one interface, logic, safety, or reliability risk to carry into the next lesson.
Resources
Lesson Resources
Lesson 3.5 PowerPoint
Use the presentation to review the lesson concepts, examples, and activity directions.
Principles of Engineering
Return to the POE course hub for units, resources, certifications, and course information.
Rover Mission + VEX Ground Support System
Use the integrated mission context when connecting logic, sensing, actuation, testing, and design-review evidence.