Page 39 - Toucpad robotics C11

Structure of an Algorithm
Most algorithms follow a similar logical structure:

Step Explanation
Input Gather data from sensors or external sources.

Processing Apply logic, calculations, or conditions.
Decision-making Use comparisons or conditional statements to determine the next step.
Output/Action Send signals to actuators (motors, LEDs, arms, etc.) or display the result.
End/Repeat Stop or repeat the loop as needed.
Example: Temperature-Controlled Fan
1. Start
2. Read temperature from the DHT11 sensor
3. If temperature > 30°C Switch on fan

4. If temperature ≤ 30°C Switch off fan
5. Repeat
6. End
This simple example demonstrates how input (temperature) leads to logical decision-making and output (fan on/off).

Flowchart: The Visual Form of an Algorithm
An algorithm can be represented textually or visually. The visual representation is called a Flowchart.

A flowchart uses specific symbols to represent different types of instructions or decisions, helping students visualize the
logic easily.

Symbol Purpose Example Start
Oval Start or End Start / Stop

Parallelogram Input or Output Read sensor value
Rectangle Process or Action Move forward
Read
Diamond Decision Is obstacle detected? A, B, C
Indicates direction of
Arrow Flow of control
sequence
No Yes
Is
A > B

Yes No No Yes
Is Is
B > C A > C

Print "B is the Print "C is the Print "A is the
largest number" largest number" largest number"

Stop

37
Introduction to Robots: What Exactly are They?