Kress unveils EyePilot robotic mower line with vision AI

Kress unveiled the EyePilot, a commercial-grade “cut-and-stay” robotic mower line available in both two- and four-wheel drive. Powered by vision artificial intelligence (AI) and real-time kinematic (RTK) networks, the system operates with satellite precision.

Traditional autonomous mowers rely on boundary wire or on-property antennas to navigate, which can be particularly challenging in North American lawns that are large and complex. Designed to intelligently navigate complex green spaces, Kress EyePilot is trained to see, understand and adapt to any environment. The EyePilot base models use a rear-wheel driving system, while EyePilot 4×4 models feature four-wheel drive with the ability to mow up to 40-degree slopes and maintain lateral stripes without slipping. Plus, the machine includes a stereo camera, V-SLAM navigation and a high-performance AI chip that delivers up to two times greater processing power than traditional robotic mowers, according to the company.

Using a neural network trained with more than 20 million parameters, EyePilot interprets contours, edges and obstacles by category to enable accurate auto-mapping, standard ZeroTrim edge-to-edge precision mowing and dynamic obstacle avoidance. The EyePilot 4×4 also uses Kress’ TurfSteer technology which enables smooth turns to guarantee precision despite tight and intricate layouts. AI-powered V-SLAM navigation allows for operation even in shadow by processing 10 images per second to maintain centimeter-level accuracy even in dense coverage with weakened or no RTK signal.

“EyePilot combines Kress’ RTK network with vision technology and AI-powered V-SLAM navigation to give users the gold standard in autonomous mowing,” said Todd Zimmerman, senior vice president of Kress dealer sales, operations and product. “With advanced technology, EyePilot can be used in areas where other mowers have difficulty and with nearly endless customization to deliver the most precise and efficient cuts.”

EyePilot can map any space automatically or can be complemented by the Kress mapping cart for multi-zone operation. With a wide cutting width of 8.7 or 9.4 inches, mowing speed of 2 feet per second and 10A charger for 50 percent higher charging capacity, Kress stated EyePilot has double the mowing efficiency of other autonomous mowers. Using an ultra-intelligent processor, it continually learns the best routes for better, more efficient cuts. Additionally, the 4×4 has an articulating body by Positec Commercial, designed to ensure balanced and stable mowing on all terrains.

EyePilot can navigate through tall grass with a 100-watt cutting motor for nearly 70 percent more power than traditional autonomous mowers and operates with a smart cutting algorithm that adapts blade RPM and drive speed for clean, even finishes.

All models are equipped with advanced mobile functionality giving the robot mowers the ability to connect to cellular networks for adjusta