Full-step drive with two flip-flops — step angle per state advance In a simple educational model with two flip-flops sequencing four coils (four distinct states) in a full-step pattern, how far does the stepper motor advance per step?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 90°

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Textbook stepper-motor demonstrations often abstract mechanical detail and map digital states directly to “positions.” With two flip-flops you can encode four states, commonly used to energize four distinct coil combinations in a full-step sequence. In that simplified model, a full cycle of four steps corresponds to a full revolution, so each step equals one quarter turn.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Two flip-flops → 2^2 = 4 states.
  • Four states energize four unique coil patterns in sequence.
  • Educational assumption: 4 steps = 360° rotation for the model.


Concept / Approach:
The question frames a conceptual teaching model, not a real motor with many poles/teeth. Under the model’s mapping, each of the four states represents an equal angular increment. Therefore, the step angle is 360° / 4 = 90°. Real stepper motors typically have much smaller step angles (for example, 1.8°), but the simplified digital demonstration uses quarter-turn increments to illustrate sequencing, direction reversal, and state encoding.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Count available states with two flip-flops → 4.Assume one state transition corresponds to one mechanical step.Assume four steps make one revolution in the model.Compute angle per step = 360° / 4 = 90°.


Verification / Alternative check:
Exam/lab problems that show only four coil states and ask for the “step angle” typically intend this simple division, reinforcing digital sequencing concepts rather than mechanical pole counts.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 45°, 30°, 15°, 7.5° imply 8, 12, 24, or 48 steps per revolution; those do not match the 4-state abstraction given.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Applying real-world stepper specifications (e.g., 200 steps/rev) to a pedagogical four-state model; always read the problem’s implied mapping.


Final Answer:
90°

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