Hello everyone,
We’ve received a lot of feature requests here on the forum, and we’ve noticed that many of you have expressed similar interests in some of the same ideas. As a result, we’d like to share updates on some most popular feature requests, including: map editing optimization (split area and straight line), tow mode, smart vision, schedule feature enhancements, route optimization and slope algorithm optimization.
Here’s an overview of the current status and upcoming plans:
1. Map Editing Optimization
We’re actively working on a comprehensive map editing optimization program. Two key features being included are the ability to split areas and draw straight lines during mapping.
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Area Splitting: After splitting an area, you will be able to retain all sections of the area.
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Straight Line Feature: When mapping, you’ll be able to create a straight line between two points, even if the actual path your Yarbo takes isn’t a straight line.
We plan to release these two map editing improvements as part of the complete optimization program. However, since we’re still working on other features within the program, the release will be delayed to June/July.
2. Tow Mode
The first version of the tow mode is expected to be included in the next major update (pending internal testing and approval). This mode has been designed with attachments in mind, allowing you to adjust the path spacing to prevent jack-knifing.
Additionally, the reverse function will be disabled while using tow mode to minimize potential risks. Initially, tow mode will be available for the SAM module.
3. Smart Vision (Camera Feed While Yarbo is Operating)
We’re currently testing the smart vision feature optimization with PPP users and are collecting feedback. During our internal testing, we’ve found that smart vision occupies some of the system’s resources, which can occasionally cause frame drops. This happens because the system prioritizes Yarbo’s operational tasks over the camera feed.
Once we’ve gathered enough feedback, we’ll continue optimizing the feature. The expected release date for smart vision is now set for July/August.
4. Schedule Feature Enhancements
Based on user feedback, we’re working on two major improvements to the schedule feature:
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Automatic Resuming unfinished work plan during schedule: Currently, when the end time reach, Yarbo lawn mower will stop the wok plan and automatically recharge. Some users have reflected that they want Yarbo to automatically resume the work plan the next day. This feature is planned for release in the next two major updates.
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Interval-Based Scheduling: We’re exploring the possibility of allowing you to schedule mowing at regular intervals, such as every three days. While this idea was recently raised, we’re still in the early stages of planning. We don’t have an estimated release time for this feature yet.
5. Route Optimization
- Pathway Optimization
To reduce lawn wear caused by Yarbo repeatedly using the same pathway, we’re working on a pathway offset feature. This will allow Yarbo to shift to the left or right side of the original pathway when traveling between areas or between the docking station and the area. With this offset, Yarbo will alternate between the left, original, and right pathways, changing the route every three passes based on our current design.
This feature is still under development, and we plan to release it alongside the map editing optimizations in June/July.
We’re also considering an option to allow you to create multiple pathways, with the system automatically selecting different routes during travel. This feature is still under evaluation.
- Route Optimization Between Areas or Docking Station
Currently, Yarbo sometimes cuts through already mowed areas when traveling to another zone, which can affect the tidiness of the lawn. To address this, our solution is to have Yarbo travel along the perimeter of the area, avoiding previously mowed sections, though we understand this may slightly reduce the efficiency of route planning.
We have scheduled the feature for the third upcoming release.
- Turning Before Docking Station Causing Turf Damage
To address the issue of Yarbo potentially causing turf damage when turning before reaching the docking station, brysach2 has provided two possible solutions, which we have discussed with the product team to make an initial decision:
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Three-Point Turn Option: After evaluation, we decided not to proceed with this option, as performing a three-point turn on the pathway could increase the risk of Yarbo going out of bounds.
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Multiple Turning Points: We are considering the option of allowing users to set multiple turning points along the pathway, enabling Yarbo to turn at different locations. Development and testing will begin when more development resources become available, as we are currently focused on other priorities.
6. Optimization of Mowing Performance on the Slope
Some users have observed uncut patches of grass on slopes. This issue is primarily caused by two factors:
- Route alignment relative to the slope: When the mowing route is oriented roughly perpendicular to the slope (as shown in the illustration), gravity causes the machine to slip slightly downhill, leading it to deviate from its planned trajectory. Although the system will eventually correct the path, this deviation results in curved or incomplete mowing lines, leaving behind strips of uncut grass.
- Attitude (tilt) of the mower affecting positioning accuracy: On slopes, the robot experiences continuous changes in pitch and roll angles. These changes can shift the physical position of the GNSS antenna, especially its height and orientation. As a result, the reported RTK position might not precisely match the actual cutting edge location. This discrepancy becomes more pronounced on steeper slopes or uneven terrain, and can lead to slight mismatches between the planned route and the actual mowing path, contributing to uncut areas.
We are planning a project to optimize mowing performance on slopes. However, our development resources are currently focused on addressing the issue of the machine going out of bounds. As a result, this project is not our top priority at the moment, and we have not yet developed a fully mature proposal. Our initial design considers the slope pattern proposed earlier, as well as improvements to the IMU system to enhance performance. We may have additional proposals once our development resources are allocated to this program.
We appreciate all the feedback and suggestions you’ve shared. While some features are still in development, we’re committed to continuous improvements and will keep you updated on our progress. Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for your support!
