At the recent Golf Industry Show (GIS) in Orlando, Toro unveiled the latest advancements in autonomous technologies with GeoLink Solutions™. Designed to help golf course operators overcome growing labor challenges and budget constraints, equipment enabled with GeoLink Solutions technologies meets the need for dependable and repeatable course operations, resulting in consistent playing conditions.

Representing years of research and development, including significant customer input, Toro is committed to providing smart autonomous solutions for our customers. The new GeoLink AS (autosteer) accessory for model year 2020 Multi Pro® 5800 units is available now. A complete suite of turf maintenance equipment with various levels of autonomous functionality will be introduced over time.

Available Now: Multi Pro 5800 with GeoLink AS

Toro’s 300-gallon dedicated sprayer takes efficiency to new heights. The Multi Pro 5800 with GeoLink AS uses GPS guidance to ensure precision coverage, virtually eliminating the risk of overlap spraying or missing target areas. GeoLink AS ensures that the machine follows the optimal pass and fully utilizes all of the nozzles on the spray boom for a faster, more efficient spray process.

The Autosteer feature also makes it easy for spray technicians to consistently and skillfully operate the Multi Pro 5800. Optimal travel routes are stored, enabling even a novice operator to expertly achieve the ideal spray path quickly and efficiently.

In Development

Toro is also finalizing development on Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Communication for GeoLink equipped sprayers, which is ideal for courses with more than one sprayer in operation. Communication between machines avoids human error by preventing an operator from double spraying an area that’s already been treated and allows another sprayer to resume a spray application in the exact location where another unit left off. In real-time, via the interactive control console, operators are able to determine areas where the spray application has been completed and those areas that are yet to be treated. This M2M capability has potential applications beyond sprayers.

Toro is also working to deliver autonomous capabilities for mowers and recently introduced Reelmaster® and Greensmaster® enabled concept units at GIS. Until now, the required technologies and cost have not been in alignment with customer expectations. Recent advancements in autonomous technologies have made these products more feasible, practical and affordable. The concept of autonomous products are examples of what Toro will deliver in the future.