**Title: Jarvis the Robot Lawn Mower: A Sustainable Innovation on the Western New England University Campus**
**Introduction:**
Passersby on the Western New England University campus may initially overlook Jarvis, the robot lawn mower diligently trimming the grass outside Deliso Hall. However, this innovative creation by mechanical engineering student Jason Breton has captured the curiosity and admiration of the campus community. In this review, we will explore the fascinating features and sustainable impact of Jarvis on the university campus.
**The Creation of Jarvis:**
Jason Breton, a senior majoring in mechanical engineering, undertook the project of researching, sourcing, installing, and monitoring Jarvis as his senior project. Despite its small size, Jarvis has become a beloved fixture on campus, with students often leaving playful notes and drawings on the robot. Breton’s dedication to sustainability and innovation is evident in his work on Jarvis, which he showcased as part of the campus’s Earth Day celebrations.
**Embracing Sustainability:**
Faculty advisor Charles Roche emphasizes the importance of embracing innovation to promote sustainability through projects like Jarvis. By implementing automated systems like Jarvis, the university not only reduces its carbon footprint but also inspires future generations of engineers to explore sustainable solutions. Jarvis serves as a symbol of the university’s commitment to environmental stewardship and technological advancement.
**Features of Jarvis:**
Jarvis, named after the artificial intelligence in the Iron Man movies, operates on a charging dock near the gazebo and is controlled by an underground wire delineating the perimeter of the lawn. Equipped with bump sensors and rain sensors, Jarvis can navigate around obstacles and return to the docking station in case of inclement weather. Students enjoy watching Jarvis mow the lawn, appreciating its efficiency and eco-friendly design.
**Sustainable Impact:**
Jarvis operates on a set schedule, mowing the lawn in a random pattern to cover the entire area efficiently. By Breton’s calculations, Jarvis uses only 12% of the energy required by traditional gas mowers to maintain the same grounds. The self-composting clippings left behind by Jarvis contribute to the lawn’s health and reduce waste. Breton envisions future projects, such as installing a solar panel on the gazebo roof to power Jarvis, further enhancing its sustainability.
**Conclusion:**
In conclusion, Jarvis the robot lawn mower represents a remarkable fusion of technology, sustainability, and innovation on the Western New England University campus. Jason Breton’s dedication to creating a more environmentally friendly and efficient lawn maintenance system has resulted in a beloved campus icon. As Jarvis continues to mow the grass and inspire students to explore sustainable solutions, it serves as a testament to the power of engineering and creativity in shaping a greener future.