Summary of Reddit Comments on Robot Lawnmowers with LIDAR

Existing Robotic Lawnmowers

• Robomow: A user mentioned working on similar projects back in 2006 and shared insights on how robotic lawnmowers have evolved over time.
• Husqvarna: Another user referenced Husqvarna as a brand offering robotic lawnmowers for homeowners, highlighting features like GPS and wireless networking capabilities.

DIY Robotic Lawnmower Ideas

• Some users suggested DIY approaches, such as using sensors like gyroscopes, GPS, beacons, and cameras for navigation and obstacle detection.
• Ideas included using magnets with hall-effect sensors, LIDAR units for grass detection, vision systems for vegetation classification, and mechanical height sensors for grass detection.
• SLAM algorithms were mentioned for mapping the yard, ensuring efficient grass cutting while conserving battery power.
• A user shared a low-tech idea involving a "suction meter" to detect grass height and identify areas needing to be mowed.

Advanced Robotic Lawnmowers

• Luba 2: Mentioned as a robot mower with advanced features like programming no-go zones, cameras, ultrasonics, and a bumper for obstacle detection.
• Ambrogio AI GPS RTK: Highlighted for its use of ultrasound for object detection and radar for grass detection, offering advanced navigation capabilities.

Challenges and Considerations

• Users discussed the limitations of GPS under trees and the need for alternative navigation methods like LIDAR-based SLAM.
• Accuracy issues with standard GPS were noted, with suggestions to use RTK GPS systems like Emlid Reach for centimeter-level precision.
• Concerns about the complexity and cost of achieving real-time centimeter-level GPS accuracy were raised.
• Some users highlighted the importance of considering safety mechanisms, accurate navigation, and obstacle avoidance in robotic lawnmower design.

Ideas and Suggestions

• Users proposed creative ideas like predetermined paths, step-based navigation instructions, and obstacle detection sensors.
• Remote control lawnmowers and simplified navigation systems were mentioned as potential solutions for efficient lawn mowing.
• The use of ROS (Robot Operating System) and Pixhawk for autonomous navigation projects was discussed.

In conclusion, the Reddit comments provided insights into existing robotic lawnmower brands, DIY project ideas, advanced navigation technologies, and challenges related to accuracy and safety. Users shared diverse perspectives on improving robotic lawnmower efficiency, navigation precision, and obstacle detection capabilities.