Lesson F0.4: Point, Pivot, and Arc Turns

A point turn drives the wheels in opposite directions and changes heading in a small space. A pivot turn holds one wheel while the other moves. An arc turn moves both sides at different speeds and changes position while turning.

The turn block models a point turn by angle. The steer block models an arc: zero is straight, a positive or negative value bends the path, and a larger magnitude bends it more sharply. Real turn angles depend on wheel spacing, tire grip, and weight distribution.

Official hardware activity

Continue the turning experiments in Training Camp 1. Mark the starting wheel positions so point and pivot turns can be compared.

Simulator practice

Build a 90 degree point turn followed by a straight drive. Replace both blocks with one steering move and compare the trail.

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Try it in the SPIKE App

Test point, pivot, and arc turns at the same nominal angle. Record which needs the least correction on your robot.

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