Recognizing the lawn is still a challenge for a robot that requires a human. But thanks to the ever-improving algorithms, we can use an inexpensive stereo camera to detect the working area of the robotic lawnmower. This technology will be further expanded so that other work surfaces can also be recognized.
With our innovative mechanic, we have developed a basis for an XL robotic lawn mower, which becomes a very high-quality professional device thanks to the owrRobotics hardware and software. The entire mechanism consists of precisely lasered and welded aluminium and stainless-steel sheets, which guarantees a very long service life of the robust mower. The concept is based on sustainability, defective components can be repaired or replaced easily and inexpensively. The module architecture of the owlRobotics Kit makes a simple electrical setup possible, despite complex functionality. And the further developed software for robotic lawnmowers called Sunray also supports the new functions such as the electric mowing height adjustment. In addition, there will also be new features, such as navigation and obstacle detection with LIDAR. The owrRobotik concept ensures that new functions can also be retrofitted to mowers already in use, which ensures that the value of the device is retained. In this video we have captured the very first test drive of the mower. Even though the Sunray software is already installed, the mower is still controlled purely manually, because we would not have expected this consistently positive and successful test. Contrary to our expectations, even 20-30cm high grass is no obstacle for the mower.
Our owlRobotics platform for autonomous robots is ready for use!
The versatile software interface of the owlRobotics platform supports C++, Python and ROS 1 & 2 and thus offers maximum flexibility. For pure C++ programming, the central μController board is sufficient. Python and ROS applications can be optimally operated on a Linux-based mini-computer such as the Raspberry Pi. Of course, PC-based systems are also supported.
Various chassis were set up for extensive testing. In addition to classic "zero-turn" chassis, the owlRobotics platform also supports 4-wheel drives and Mecanum drives.
A special highlight is the owlCrawler, a compact crawler chain drive that can hold an impressive 200 kg and reach speeds of up to 5 km/h.
This robust platform is ideal for developing and evaluating your own robotics applications. Discover the possibilities with owlRobotics – your solution for innovative, autonomous robotics.
Developing and testing software components for robots often requires significant effort. Therefore, we have adopted the strategy of assembling components on a testbed to test motors, sensors, and other parts directly at the desk along with the software.
Our testbed showcases a configuration of a typical lawn mower robot with 3 motors, the central owlController (a large board), and an additional sensor and IO board. We utilize our proven owlDrive BL-Controllers for controlling the brushless motors. The central control board, onto which a Raspberry Pi is attached, facilitates hardware-proximate communication. It controls external modules via the CAN bus and can provide additional sensors through I²C connectors. Furthermore, it offers digital IO pins and analog inputs to query switches for bumpers and similar functions. A dedicated analog input is designed for a rain sensor. If the existing IO ports are insufficient, additional IO modules can be connected via the CAN bus, such as the blue module at the top edge, which also features 2 relays. Through this modular networking, up to 60 modules can be connected to control, for example, 4 wheel drives or tools with multiple motors.
With the owlRobotics Kit, we are capable of configuring and controlling any hardware requirement effortlessly. This base control can then be interfaced with the Robot Operating System (ROS) running on the attached Raspberry Pi and utilized with a standardized ROS application.
This is our Mecanum Evaluation Cassis to test and optimize our owlRobotics Kit with the owlDrive for the complex Mecanum drive. With these strange-looking wheels, the chassis can travel in all 4 directions, so it's also a real sideways ride. This type of drive is an optimal way to maneuver, especially in confined spaces. This drive solves your problems, feel free to contact us, we will be happy to advise you.
owlRobotics GmbH stands for high precision navigation algorithms for self driving robots like lawn mowers and similar vehicles, based on our Sunray-OS or open standards.