What is the primary function of a shaft encoder in robotics?

The primary function of a shaft encoder in robotics is to track the rotation of wheels. Shaft encoders are sensors that convert the angular position or motion of a shaft into an electrical signal. This capability is crucial in robotics, particularly for determining the position and speed of wheels or other rotating components.

When a robot moves, the wheels turn, and the shaft encoders attached to these wheels provide feedback about their rotation. This feedback is essential for tasks such as navigation, controlling speed, and maintaining an accurate position, enabling the robot to perform tasks that require precise movements.

In summary, while speed measurement might be a secondary effect of the encoder's function, the primary role is to track rotation, which directly influences movement control and positioning in robotic applications. Other options, like controlling communication between sensors or managing power distribution, do not align with the specific mechanical and positional tracking that shaft encoders provide.