AI and Obstacle Detection in Commercial Robot Lawn Mowers: What Has Changed?

 Robot lawn mowers have come a long way. Today, some models can do much more than simply follow a set route around a lawn. They can use satellite navigation, cameras, sonar and other sensors to help them move around the area and respond to obstacles.

For businesses and grounds managers, these features are making the commercial robot lawn mower a more practical option for maintaining large green spaces.

Smarter Obstacle Detection

Obstacle detection is an important part of modern robotic mowing. JFHanley’s range includes models that use different systems to detect objects in the mower’s path.

The ECHO TM-850S, for example, uses two sonar units for obstacle detection. It is designed for areas of up to 30,000 m² and can operate on slopes of up to 30%. The mower is designed for football pitches, golf courses, sports fields, parks and other green spaces.

Larger ECHO models also use sonar. The TM-2050 has five sonar units and is designed for areas of up to 75,000 m². It can work on slopes of up to 45%.

Where AI Comes In?

Some newer robot mowers go further by using AI-powered vision systems. JFHanley’s Segway VisionFence sensor uses AI to recognise different objects. The system can detect and actively avoid objects within a 1.5-metre radius when they meet its detection criteria. The system can also help the mower continue working when satellite signals are weak in areas with more difficult layouts.

This type of technology can be useful for lawns where there may be trees, flower pots or other objects that need to be avoided.

GPS-RTK and Other Navigation Systems

Obstacle detection is only one part of the technology. Navigation has also developed. The ECHO TM-850S uses GPS-RTK Wisenav wireless navigation and can mow without boundary wires. JFHanley states that its GPS-RTK technology provides navigation to within 2 cm.

The Kress KR236E also uses satellite-guided navigation and offers centimetre-level accuracy without a station antenna on the property. It has an integrated Obstacle Avoidance System and can move between different turf areas using its multi-zone function.

This combination of navigation and obstacle detection can be particularly useful on larger areas where the mower needs to cover more than one section.

Different Technologies for Different Grounds

There is no single obstacle-detection system across all robotic mowers. The technology depends on the model. Some JFHanley models use sonar, while others combine satellite positioning with cameras, LiDAR or AI vision.

The Segway Navimow H215E, for example, combines LiDAR, Network RTK and vision for navigation and mapping. Its VisionFence system uses LiDAR and a camera to detect and avoid more than 200 types of objects, according to JFHanley’s product information.

The Kress KR251E uses RTK satellite navigation with an AI-powered mono vision system. Its Vision AI system is designed to identify and react to obstacles in real time.

What Does This Mean for Commercial Mowing?

For commercial users, these developments provide more options when choosing a robotic mower. The right machine depends on the size of the area, the type of ground, the presence of obstacles and the navigation system required.

JFHanley offers robotic mowers from brands including ECHO, Kress and Segway, with models designed for different lawn sizes and applications. The ECHO TM-2050, for example, is aimed at large areas of up to 75,000 m² and can be controlled remotely through Wi-Fi/4G and the Connect app.

As the technology develops, robotic mowing is becoming more flexible. Instead of looking at only cutting capacity, commercial users can now also consider navigation, obstacle detection, terrain and the layout of the area before choosing a machine.

FAQs

Do all commercial robot lawn mowers use AI?

No. JFHanley’s range includes different technologies. Some models use sonar for obstacle detection, while others use AI-powered vision, LiDAR and satellite navigation.

How does AI help a robot lawn mower?

On models equipped with AI vision, the system can identify and respond to obstacles. For example, Segway’s VisionFence uses AI to detect and avoid certain objects while mowing.

Can commercial robot lawn mowers work without boundary wires?

Yes. Several JFHanley models use satellite-guided or other navigation systems for wire-free mowing. The ECHO TM-850S uses GPS-RTK Wisenav, while Kress and Segway models in the range also offer wire-free navigation.

Are robotic mowers suitable for large commercial areas?

Some models are specifically designed for large areas. The ECHO TM-850S is listed for up to 30,000 m², while the TM-2050 is listed for up to 75,000 m².