It’s not often a technology comes along that is so big and influential that roles are specifically created for it and the products they power revolutionise an industry, but that’s exactly what’s happened with GeoLink.
Previously GeoLink was largely only familiar to those using Toro’s turf-based precision spray system. Now however this technology has been catapulted into the turfcare stratosphere with the arrival of Toro’s autonomous range of mowers.
So, what is this technology, what does it do, how does it work and how will it affect your role in the turfcare industry?
Here we talk to Lee Rowbotham, who has recently accepted the role of GeoLink and Digital Specialist at GCMA Partner’s Reesink Turfcare, a new role developed by the company to reflect the importance Reesink places on the advanced technology expected, including GPS and digital, to oversee product delivery and support customers now and in the future.
It of course also coincides with Reesink’s recent launch of Toro’s new range of robotic mowing solutions for the fairways and the roughs: the Toro GeoLink Solutions Autonomous Fairway Mower, Turf Pro range of robot mowers and Range Pro ball picker.
What is GeoLink technology?
GeoLink technology generally refers to a system or platform that integrates geographic location data with communication and networking capabilities. It works hand-in-hand with Real Time Kinematic positioning to enhance a standard GPS signal and transform its resolution from a few metres to a few centimetres.
This works by having a fixed base station (RTK mast) of known position. It calculates correction data from the carrier signals sent from the satellites. Then, the base station sends these real-time correction signals to the rover, enhancing the precision of the machine’s position.
What is its purpose?
Representing years of research and development including significant customer input, Toro’s GeoLink solutions integrate geospatial data with communication technologies to enable location-based services, real-time tracking, and geographic information analysis.
They combine GPS, GIS, and automated control systems to enhance efficiency in turf maintenance and was seen first in combination with Toro’s GeoLink spraying solutions. That delivered autonomous spray applications, with pinpoint accuracy and avoiding overlaps, saving time and solution waste. It basically means you get the best accuracy for your machinery’s GPS guidance, essential in precision-based maintenance applications.
Now with the launch of its autonomous mowing options: the Toro GeoLink Solutions Autonomous Fairway Mower, three fully robotic Turf Pro mowers and Range Pro ball picker, there is a complete suite of turf maintenance equipment with various levels of autonomous functionality which Toro says leads to dependable and repeatable course operations that result in consistent playing conditions.
How does it work?
In the case of the Toro GeoLink Solutions Autonomous Fairway Mower, sensors work off ultra-precise information providing accuracy to two centimetres to map out the area, setting specific boundaries in which the machine can operate autonomously and without wired-off fencing.
When in autonomous mode, a combination of technologies works together to provide peace of mind. The first applies to the local area, immediately surrounding the unit. LiDAR, radar, and sonar all work together to make sure the unit always knows what is going on around it.
When the mower reaches the edge of the predefined work zone based on satellite positioning, it intelligently keeps within it. All the operator needs to do is customise the settings according to working perimeters, no-go zones, mowing patterns, cutting height and transport paths.
How will it affect your role?
Achieving the quality that top-tier golf courses require is anything but simple. Tasks such as creating flawless, uniform patterns have traditionally required hours of skilled labour from experienced operators to ensure consistent results.
The labour-intensive nature of this work, coupled with the challenges of maintaining a skilled workforce, has driven the search for more efficient solutions. Toro’s ongoing development in autonomous technology is part of this broader effort to enhance precision and productivity on the golf course, reducing the load where greenkeeping teams are stretched.
Rather than replacing skilled workers, autonomous technology is seen as a tool that promises to enhance the efficiency and productivity of the existing team, freeing them up for other critical tasks while still being able to remotely monitor autonomous equipment.
These innovations offer more than just potential efficiency gains. They provide opportunities to reallocate labour to other critical tasks, enhance course aesthetics, and expand the use of advanced technology across various maintenance areas.
To find out more, visit GCMA Partners Reesink Turfcare at reesinkturfcare.co.uk.
By GCMA
