iRobot (IRBT) recently filed an 84-page patent for a robot lawnmower. The "Lawnba" filing covers an all-electric or a hybrid gas/electric mower in various configurations, from the Roomba disc shape to a pentagon, with two to five cutting heads. It uses optical and acoustic sensors to stay away from hard surfaces, water or barriers, and can sense uncut grass. The barrier methods include perimeter wires, solar-powered spikes GPS navigation as well as a radio beacon. RFID tags or proximity sensors keep it from running into pets and kids. Very cool!

I'm far from being the only blogger and tech guy who finds great interest in iRobot's new product. Daniel at The Ridiculously Mundane is also a big fan. Who wouldn't be with a product that's bound to make our lives a bit easier?