Mowing the lawn is entering the era of high-tech, all thanks to robots and artificial intelligence (AI).
According to Jarrett Herold, co-founder of Electric Sheep, the fascinating aspect is that these robotic mowers require no extensive teaching. With just an on/off button, they are semantically aware of their surroundings. I had the chance to witness this firsthand at Vista Del Valle Park in La Habra, where the Electric Sheep's robot efficiently mowed the expansive park lawns.
Herold emphasized that instead of a person riding a machine back and forth in straight lines, they have delegated these tasks to their robots. These quiet, all-electric mowers are equipped with AI that becomes more intelligent with each job.
"They're robots that have common sense. That's where AI comes in. So they really just have to be set down and pointed in the right direction, and you hit start," explained Herold.
These robots work in collaboration with landscaping crews, allowing them to focus on other essential tasks like trimming, edging, and blowing. Hiring individuals for such work can be challenging, according to Herold.
Presently, these bots are operational in various locations such as campuses and parks, primarily for commercial use. Similar robots are available for home use as well.
Ed Nolan, HOA President at Villa Point Condos in Newport Beach, shared his experience with the robots, noting their electric appeal, less noise, and environmental benefits.
While safety remains a top concern due to their autonomous nature and sharp blades, Electric Sheep has integrated a stereo camera in the front to identify and avoid obstacles. During a demonstration, the robot stopped and turned around when a person stepped in its path, showcasing the effectiveness of its safety features.
However, a crucial question arises: will these automated bots replace human jobs? Herold clarified that their purpose is not to displace labor but to work alongside humans, enhancing productivity.
This sentiment aligns with the response I've received from various companies automating tasks – a reassurance that automation is intended to complement human efforts rather than replace them.
As for how these electric sheep compare to humans in lawn maintenance, it was challenging to assess during the demos, as the grass was already well-maintained. Unlike a Roomba, which may move in a haphazard direction, these lawnmowers are designed to create those aesthetically pleasing lawn stripes.