Automated grass cutter using renewable energy

. Traditional grass cutting relies on manpower, consuming time and often resulting in an uneven grass height structure. To circumvent these challenges, it is imperative to develop a system capable of grass cutting without human intervention. This study introduces a grass-cutting robot powered by a solar-charged battery. The operation of this robot is conveniently controlled through an Android phone. Notably, this system is cost-effective compared to alternative solutions, boasting a rugged, durable, and maintenance-free design. Additionally, its reliance on solar energy for battery charging renders the system environmentally friendly and free from pollution.


Introduction
In a world increasingly focused on sustainable solutions, the development of an automated grass cutter utilizing renewable energy sources aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly technologies.This project aims to create an efficient and autonomous grasscutting system that relies on renewable energy, reducing the environmental impact associated with traditional gasoline-powered lawn mowers.Automation offers numerous advantages in various aspects of human life.The visual allure of precisely manicured, uniformly cut grass plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall aesthetics of hotels, residences, parks, meeting halls, and similar environments.Consequently, maintaining a consistent approach to grass cutting becomes imperative for upholding the prestige of any establishment or dwelling.Although manual grass cutting can be accomplished through human labor, it frequently requires substantial time and energy investment.Moreover, the manual approach tends to be inefficient, frequently resulting in an uneven grass structure.To overcome these challenges and streamline the process, the adoption of an automated grass-cutting robot, controllable via an Android phone, emerges as a more effective solution.
This paper introduces an Android-operated grass-cutting robot that seamlessly interfaces with an Android phone via Bluetooth technology.The robot's movement capabilities include forward, backward, left turn, right turn, and grass cutter on/off functionalities, all coordinated through a dedicated Android application.The robot is powered by a 12V, 7.5Ah battery, conveniently recharged through a solar panel positioned directly above the battery.
Numerous researchers have advocated a comparable solar-based design for a grasscutting robot.In their work, Jain.S, et al. [1], introduced a design featuring blades positioned at the center of the robot's four wheels.Down, M. P, et al. [2], developed a manually operated handle device designed for grass cutting.Traditionally, grass cutting has been performed manually using hand tools like scissors, a method demanding substantial human effort and time, resulting in uneven outcomes.The utilization of engine-powered machines exacerbates issues related to air pollution, noise, and necessitates regular maintenance [3].The natural environment inhabited by modern society is typically characterized by vegetation, encompassing forests, trees, or grasslands [4] In the current era, the growing scarcity of fossil fuels has intensified the exploration and imperative for alternative energy sources.Researchers are actively engaged in assessing various sources, with particular emphasis on solar-powered projects, which have become integral in numerous fields [5].Contrasting conventional petrol-powered grass cutters, the rotary mowers are propelled by a four-stroke internal combustion engine, ensuring maximum torque and cleaner combustion [6].The model is powered by rechargeable batteries, charged through solar panels.The motor driver circuitry connects DC motors to the device's wheels, regulating the speed and direction of both motors simultaneously.Wireless communication between the device and users is facilitated by a Bluetooth module through the host control interface [7].
The cordless grass cutter relies on rechargeable batteries for power, and the runtime increases with the number of batteries.However, this approach can be costlier, and the disposal of depleted batteries poses environmental challenges.In comparison to petrolpowered grass cutters, cordless ones exhibit lower performance when considering the same weight parameter.To address these issues, a new technological domain has emerged, giving rise to innovative grass cutters such as the solar-powered variant integrated with IoT (Internet of Things) technology for operational and movement control [8].These robotic devices come equipped with sensors and intelligent software, enabling them to navigate diverse terrains, avoid obstacles, and efficiently cut grass [9].
A design was executed wherein the cutter blades were positioned at the centre of the robot's four wheels.However, this configuration led to disturbances during the grass cutting process.Particularly, when dealing with larger grass sizes, it resulted in wheel stoppage, rendering the system inefficient.Ismail, F. B, et al. [10] introduced a comparable grasscutting robot system, which, unlike the previous design, cannot be controlled via an Android smart phone.Instead, it incorporates an ultrasonic sensor designed to detect obstacles during operation [11].

Arduino UNO
This work uses the Arduino platform and the ATmega328P microprocessor, which has 28 pins and is a more affordable and effective microcontroller than other microcontrollers.New C++ language code is tested on the Arduino-1.6.7-Windowssoftware.A straightforward USB cable connection between the PC and the Arduino kit allows the code to be uploaded to the Arduino platform after successful verification.Figure 1 shows the Arduino IDE kit and the ATmega328P microprocessor together.

Bluetooth Module
This paper utilizes the collaboration between an Arduino Uno and an HC-06 Bluetooth module to enable seamless command transfer from an Android smart phone to the system.Integrated alongside relays, the HC-06 Bluetooth module facilitates a smooth connection with the user's smart phone.Upon successful pairing, the user can issue directional change commands to the system from a distance of up to 10 meters.Additionally, the user has the capability to remotely activate or deactivate the grass cutter through a dedicated Android application on their mobile device.
Specifically crafted for short-range wireless connectivity, the HC-06 Bluetooth module stands out as a cost-effective and robust solution when compared to other available Bluetooth modules.For a visual representation of the HC-06 Bluetooth module, please consult Fig. 2 below Fig. 2. HC-06 Bluetooth module

DC Motor
The system incorporates four 12V-rated DC motors, each connected to one of the four wheels.These motors efficiently convert electrical input into mechanical energy through the rotational motion of the shaft.Notably cost-effective, these motors demand lower electrical voltage for operation compared to their counterparts.Refer to Fig. 3 for a visual representation of the DC motor used in the system.

Motor Driver IC
The DC motor in this system is connected to the analog output pin of the ATmega328P microcontroller.It's important to emphasize that this microcontroller is capable of generating a maximum DC output voltage of 5V.The DC motor integrated into this system operates perfectly within this specified voltage limit.

Fig. 4. DC Motor Control with H-Bridge
To operate, the DC motor in this system requires a 12V DC input voltage.Consequently, the L293D motor driver IC is interposed between the microcontroller's output pin and the DC motor input.Functioning as a current amplifier, this IC accepts a low current signal from the microcontroller, amplifies it, and then supplies a high current signal to the DC motor, facilitating its operation.The L293D boasts two integrated H-bridge driver circuits, allowing simultaneous operation of two DC motors in the common mode.The input logic at pins 2 and 7, as well as 10 and 15, governs the functioning of these two motors.For the first motor, a logic of 00 is employed to bring it to a stop, whereas a logic of 11 is utilized to cease the second motor.To induce clockwise and anticlockwise rotations, logic 01 and 10 are applied, respectively.Pins 1 and 9 act as enable pins for the connected motors, requiring a high enable pin to initiate their operation.For a visual representation of the motor driver IC L293D, please refer to Fig. 4.

Solar Panel
The system integrates a 12V, 10W solar panel characterized by an aluminium frame and a surface crafted from tempered glass material.Constructed with mono crystalline silicon, this solar panel stands out for its compactness, lightweight design, and cost-effectiveness when compared to other panels with a similar rating.For a visual representation of the solar panel, please consult Fig. 5.

Methods
Incorporate high-efficiency solar panels to harness energy from the sun.Ensure an optimal surface area for solar absorption on the grass cutter.Integrate a robust battery system to store the solar energy efficiently.Use lithium-ion or other advanced batteries for long-lasting and lightweight energy storage.Utilize electric motors for propulsion and cutting mechanisms.Implement energy-efficient brushless DC motors to minimize power consumption.Design a versatile cutting system that adjusts to different grass heights.Explore blade designs for efficiency and minimal energy consumption.Integrate sensors for obstacle detection and avoidance.Implement GPS or other navigation systems for precise and efficient grass-cutting patterns.This paper relies on a DC 12V 7.5Ah battery as the power source for the entire system.The battery is linked to a solar panel, enabling the utilization of solar energy for charging.The system features four DC motors, each connected to a wheel, and the grasscutting blades are positioned at the front of the unit.Operation of the system requires the establishment of a Bluetooth connection between the system and an Android smart phone.Once successfully connected, users can control the system through an Android application installed on their smart phone.Functionality includes the ability to toggle the grass cutter on and off, as well as move the cutter both vertically and horizontally.For a comprehensive view, refer to Fig. 6 depicting the entire system.

Fig. 6. Solar Grass cutter
Designing an automated grass cutter that utilizes renewable energy involves combining various technologies to create an efficient and sustainable solution.Here's a detailed explanation of the key components and operations: Use photovoltaic (PV) panels to harness solar energy.These panels convert sunlight into electricity and can be mounted on the grass cutter.Store the harvested energy in rechargeable batteries.Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used due to their high energy density and efficiency.Equip the grass cutter with an electric motor that is efficient and can be powered directly by the stored energy.A brushless DC motor is preferred for its durability and energy efficiency.Implement a docking station where the grass cutter can autonomously return to recharge its batteries when needed.The docking station can be equipped with connectors that interface with the cutter for efficient charging .Install a control system that manages the operation of the grass cutter.This system can be programmed to control the cutting pattern, navigation, and charging behaviour.Sensors like GPS, ultrasonic sensors, or cameras can be used for navigation and obstacle avoidance.Attach a cutting mechanism to the grass cutter, which can be rotary blades or a trimming system.Ensure it is lightweight, efficient, and capable of handling various grass heights.Use sensors like ultrasonic sensors, infrared sensors, or cameras for obstacle detection and navigation.Implement algorithms for path planning and obstacle avoidance to ensure the grass cutter can operate autonomously.Include a safety mechanism that stops the cutter immediately in case of an obstacle or other safety concerns.This can be implemented through sensors or manual remote control.Integrate a communication module (e.g., Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) to enable remote monitoring and control.This allows users to check the status of the grass cutter and adjust settings as needed.
Design the grass cutter to be weather-resistant, ensuring it can operate in various environmental conditions without compromising its functionality.Include features for self-diagnostics to identify issues and notify users for maintenance.Design components to be easily replaceable or upgradable .Implement a data logging system to collect information on energy usage, cutting patterns, and operational parameters.This data can be analyzed for performance optimization and future enhancements.By integrating these components, an automated grass cutter powered by renewable energy can operate efficiently, reduce environmental impact, and provide a sustainable solution for lawn maintenance.

Proposed System
Refer to Fig. 7 below for the block diagram illustrating the proposed framework.

Fig. 7. Block Diagram
As depicted in the above Figure 7, the Solar Panel is connected to the battery, which provides a 12 V DC supply to the system.This voltage can be regulated down to 5V DC using a voltage regulator.The Arduino functions on a 5V DC voltage, and its output pins are linked to various components in the system, including the LCD module, Bluetooth module, DC motors, and buzzer.Fig. 8 show the flowchart of the system.Develop an intelligent control system for autonomous operation.Incorporate machine learning algorithms for adaptive navigation and obstacle avoidance.Zero emissions during operation, reducing the carbon footprint.Decreases dependence on fossil fuels.Lower operating costs compared to traditional gasoline-powered alternatives.
As shown in the above Fig.8, the initial step involves activating the 12 V battery supply, which is then converted into a 5V DC supply through a voltage regulator.This regulated 5V supply is subsequently directed to power the microcontroller.Following this, the Bluetooth module is initiated and establishes a connection with the Android smart phone.Once the smart phone establishes a connection with the system, users can control the system's movement in both vertical and horizontal directions using a dedicated Android application.The grass cutter is then activated to trim the grass at the desired location.Upon completion of the grass-cutting task, users can deactivate the grass cutter through the Android smart phone.Finally, the main system is turned off by disconnecting the 12V battery supply.This system is not operational in rainy conditions.

Application:
Ideal for cutting grass in areas such as cricket grounds, football field's gardens and similar spaces.