Development and evaluation of an autonomous solar lawnmower

Abstract

The ongoing rise in fuel prices and environmental impact of petrol emissions necessitate the use of alternative energy sources. This study focuses on developing an autonomous solar-powered lawn mower, integrating solar panels and advanced control systems to minimize manual labour and emissions. The objectives include designing, fabricating, and evaluating a prototype that can efficiently cut grass across various lawn sizes, terrains, and vegetation types. The mower features two brushless motors, each rated at 2700 kV, powered by an 11.1-volt, 2-amp supply. The mower is designed with cutters positioned side by side, allowing it to cut grass beside obstacles while maintaining efficiency. This design improves obstacle navigation and addresses the limitations of traditional lawnmowers. Performance evaluations revealed that mower effectively cut various grasses and tender weeds. The integration of solar energy and automation introduces a sustainable, labour-saving solution that enhances lawn maintenance. The developed mower reduces manual effort, improves mowing efficiency, and maintains performance across diverse conditions. This innovation offers a practical and energy-efficient alternative to traditional models, opening the door to a new era of environmentally friendly lawn care.