Autonomous RC mowers: Future technology from AS-Motor at demopark
Three AS 940 Sherpa 4WD RC machines operate fully automatically as a fleet
Steep embankments, rough terrain and large green spaces pose enormous challenges for local authorities and service providers. At demopark 2023 in Hörselberg near Eisenach, AS-Motor, together with the Fraunhofer Institute IVI and Sensor-Technik Wiedemann GmbH (STW), presented a world first: an autonomous RC mower fleet consisting of three AS 940 Sherpa 4WD RC mowers that work a defined area fully automatically.
The result: triple the area coverage, maximum precision and less fatigue for the operator. The demonstration impressively showed how a single user can monitor and control several professional mowers at the same time – either directly on site or remotely, e.g. from the office.
The technology behind the innovation
At the heart of the autonomous fleet is the control tower software helyOS® (highly efficient online yard operating system), developed at Fraunhofer IVI. It connects, controls and monitors mobile machines via local networks or the cloud. Already in use in agriculture and transport, helyOS® has now been expanded for professional green space maintenance.
Vehicle integration is achieved via STW's TCG-4 connectivity module. This Linux-based control unit enables vehicle automation and communicates with the control centre via Wi-Fi or LTE. A track controller determines the optimal driving signals based on the target and actual positions and transmits them directly to the AS 940 Sherpa 4WD RC via the CAN bus.
Greater safety and efficiency for professionals
The demonstration proved how autonomous mowing systems increase work safety and precision while simultaneously multiplying productivity. Operators are removed from danger zones, physical strain is reduced, and resources are used more efficiently. Local authorities and service providers in particular benefit from this approach in times of skills shortages and rising costs.
A glimpse into the future: from remote to autonomous
The autonomous RC fleet marks the next logical step following the successful introduction of the remote-controlled Sherpa models. This technology paves the way for fully autonomous fleets in municipal use, which can maintain large areas independently and only need to be monitored.
Learn more & request advice
Experience the future of steep slope mowing with the AS 940 Sherpa 4WD RC and other AS-Motor RC models such as the Ovis RC, Ovis EVO RC and Tahr RC.
