How is the robot able to calculate its speed?

The robot calculates its speed by comparing the current position of the motor to a previous position, which is a method that relies on feedback from the robot's movement. This approach typically involves encoders attached to the motors that track the number of revolutions or partial revolutions the motor makes. By knowing the distance covered based on these rotations and the time it takes to cover that distance, the robot can determine its speed accurately.

This method takes into account not only how far the robot has moved but also incorporates real-time data, allowing for adjustments if needed. It provides a reliable way to measure speed because it uses actual positional data rather than estimates or indirect measurements that may not accurately reflect the robot's true speed on the terrain it is navigating.

Other methods, such as measuring voltage across the motor, would not directly correlate to speed, as voltage can vary based on factors unrelated to the actual movement of the robot. Using a stopwatch to track time would require a predetermined distance, which could lead to inaccuracies if not managed carefully. Analyzing the battery level would provide information about power availability but doesn't directly inform the robot about its speed. Therefore, position comparison is the most effective and accurate method for calculating the robot's speed.