LEGO SPIKE move_for_degrees Turn Planner
A LEGO SPIKE Prime move_for_degrees turn planner that pairs exponential steering models with real-time visuals. Dial in wheel types, turn diameters, and calibration factors while seeing clearance around obstacles, then export classroom-ready Python code. This tool is the first in a series covering the LEGO SPIKE move_* methods.
🎮 Control Settings
How much do you want the robot to turn? (This is your goal!)
Circumference: 17.6 cm per rotation
⚙️ Control Values (linked)
Adjust either steering or diameter—both stay synchronized.
-100 (sharp right) 20 100 (sharp left)
Negative turns right, positive turns left. Higher magnitude = tighter circle. 💡 Tip: Smaller diameter = sharper turn
Size of the object to navigate around
Motor speed (100-1110 for medium motors)
Adjust if robot doesn't turn exactly right (test & tune!)
💡 How to Calibrate:
- Set Turn Angle to 90° and Steering to 50.
- Run the generated code on your robot.
- Measure the actual turn angle achieved.
- Set calibration to desired angle ÷ actual angle.
📊 Visualization
🛞 Wheel Type --
Turn Circle Diameter --
Wheel Rotations Needed --
Distance Traveled --
Degrees to Run Motor --
Path Direction --
Steering --
Start Point Top of circle (12 o'clock)
End Point --
📐 The Math Behind It:
Diameter = 88 × (1.6)(-|steering|/10)
As steering increases, diameter decreases (exponential decay) Arc Length = (angle / 360) × π × diameter
Distance traveled = portion of the circle circumference Rotations = Arc Length / Wheel Circumference
Wheel circumference changes by wheel type Motor Degrees = Rotations × 360
Convert wheel rotations to motor degrees 🔬 Important Note: These calculations are based on the exponential fit model and are specifically for the
move_for_degrees method in LEGO SPIKE Prime. Test and fine-tune for your specific robot build—wheel placement and chassis geometry affect actual turning behavior. Other movement methods like move_tank, move, and move_for_time are available in SPIKE Prime but not covered by this tool.
For the complete API reference, check the official LEGO SPIKE Python documentation. It describes how steering, duration, and stop parameters interact with paired motors so you can interpret the simulator output and code blocks confidently.
💻 Python Code for Your Robot
Expand your expertise
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In-depth Tool Guides
LEGO SPIKE move_for_time Path Forecaster Forecast timed steering movements with arc path visualization, distance estimates, loop planning helpers, and ready-to-deploy Python code templates. LEGO SPIKE move_tank_for_degrees Path Composer Choreograph precise tank-drive moves with per-wheel distances, pose estimates, and sequence planning for LEGO SPIKE Prime robots. LEGO SPIKE move_tank_for_time Motion Sequencer Design timed tank-drive routines step-by-step with animated previews and loop-ready Python code for LEGO SPIKE Prime performances.
Knowledge Base Articles
Time-Based Motion Control in LEGO SPIKE Prime: Theory, Practice, and Pedagogy Deep dive into move_for_time motion planning, exploring the mathematics of timed paths, calibration strategies, and educational implementation for robotics programs.
Updated 11/3/2025 Time-Based Robot Control: Mastering move_tank_for_time for Choreography and Education Explore the principles of time-based tank drive control, async programming patterns, and educational strategies for creating synchronized robot routines with move_tank_for_time.
Updated 11/3/2025 Understanding move_tank_for_degrees: A Comprehensive Guide to Position-Based Robot Control Master position-based tank drive control with move_tank_for_degrees. Learn wheel rotation kinematics, path planning strategies, and how to create precise autonomous robot routines.
Updated 11/3/2025 Mastering Continuous Motion Control with LEGO SPIKE Prime's move() Method Complete guide to continuous steering, real-time sensor integration, and smooth curved navigation with practical implementations and pedagogical strategies.
Updated 11/3/2025