Understanding Navigation Systems

What is RTK, Vision AI, LiDAR, & Dead Reckoning? Learn about all the ways robot mowers navigate to better choose what is the right technology for you!

GPS (Global Positioning Sysyem)

Standard GPS provides basic positioning, accurate to within 2-5 meters. This is suitable for general navigation but may lead to less precise edge-cutting.

RTK (Real Time Kinematic)

RTK uses a stationary base station set up on the turf. The base station calculates the atmospheric errors in the satellite signals and sends corrections to the mower in real time. This boosts accuracy to an incredible 1-3 centimeters, allowing for razor-sharp virtual boundaries and perfectly straight mowing lines.

RTKn (Kress Exclusive)

RTK without an antenna on your property. Utilize the antenna from a larger Kress network.

Vision AI / vSLAM

Vision-based systems rely on cameras and artificial intelligence to visually recognize lawn edges, pathways, and obstacles. By interpreting real-world surroundings, the mower can adapt to changing layouts. Consistent lighting conditions are important for reliable performance.

LiDAR (Light Detection & Ranging)

LiDAR-equipped mowers use laser pulses to map the lawn and measure distances with high precision. This technology excels in complex environments and performs well even in low-light conditions, making it suitable for gardens with trees, structures, or variable lighting.

GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System)

Refers to a constellation of satellites providing global positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services to receivers on Earth. It acts as an umbrella term for systems like GPS (US), GLONASS (Russia), Galileo (EU), and BeiDou (China).

Dead Reckoning

enables precise navigation even when satellite signals are blocked by trees or buildings. It uses inertial sensors (gyroscopes/accelerometers) to calculate position when GPS is unavailable, allowing for efficient, systematic, and, in some cases, wire-free, mowing.