New Safety Test for Robotic Lawnmowers Aims to Protect Hedgehogs

3D-Printed 'Crash Test Dummies' Used to Improve Lawnmower Sensors and Prevent Harm to Vulnerable Species

Researchers have developed a new safety test for robotic lawnmowers to prevent them from harming hedgehogs, using 3D-printed 'crash test dummies' that mimic real hedgehogs.
The test was developed after studies found that robotic lawnmowers had to physically touch hedgehogs before detecting them, often resulting in injury or death for the animals.
The researchers plan to make the model available for lawnmower manufacturers to 3D print and use for testing, with guidelines recommending 60 trials with two different sizes of dummies in various positions.
Improvements in robotic lawnmower sensors and the addition of camera technologies are also being advocated to help mowers identify and avoid small animals.
The European hedgehog is classified as a vulnerable species at risk of possible extinction in the U.K., with the population having declined up to 75% in some rural areas since 2000.