ABSTRACT:

The research presents the design and implementation of a solar-powered autonomous lawn mower that integrates GPS navigation, compass-based heading alignment, and ultrasonic obstacle detection to operate without human intervention. Traditional lawn maintenance methods are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and often environmentally unsustainable due to the reliance on fuel-powered equipment. The present study addresses these challenges by introducing a low-cost, eco-friendly solution aimed at automating grass-cutting tasks using open-source components and renewable energy. The primary objective is to develop a robotic lawn mower that navigates using GPS coordinates, maintains directional accuracy through a digital compass (HMC5883L), and avoids obstacles using ultrasonic sensors. The entire system is managed through an Arduino Mega 2560 microcontroller, with motor control handled by L298N driver modules and a high-speed DC blade motor controlled via relay. The mower is powered by a rechargeable 12V battery that is charged by a solar panel, allowing for continuous outdoor operation. The methodology involved modular testing of individual components, followed by full integration and validation through field testing. The system was tested on a real lawn using pre-programmed coordinates and showed successful navigation, obstacle avoidance, and grass-cutting within the intended area. The study demonstrates the feasibility and importance of combining embedded systems with renewable energy for sustainable automation. Potential applications extend beyond household lawn care to include agriculture, landscape maintenance, and environmental robotics. This prototype serves as a foundation for future developments involving AI-based path planning, real-time mapping, and smart monitoring systems.