One Robot. Two Jobs. Meet the FJD RM21 & BP02 Robotic Ball Picker
Running a successful golf driving range means far more than simply providing golf balls and keeping the grass short. Every day, operators face the repetitive challenge of collecting thousands of golf balls while also maintaining a consistently well-presented outfield.
Traditionally, these have been two separate jobs requiring dedicated machines, significant labour and valuable staff time.
The FJD RM21 changes that.
Combined with the BP02 Ball Picker Kit, the RM21 becomes an intelligent, fully autonomous maintenance platform capable of both commercial mowing and automated golf ball collection. From collecting balls and unloading automatically to returning for charging before its next run, the RM21 is designed to keep your driving range operating efficiently with minimal manual intervention.
One Platform. Two Essential Driving Range Jobs.
Unlike conventional robotic mowers, the RM21 has been developed as a multi-functional commercial platform.
Using interchangeable attachments, the same machine can:
- Mow large grass areas
- Collect golf balls
- Return automatically when full
- Unload collected balls
- Recharge itself
- Resume scheduled work
This means one machine can complete two of the biggest daily maintenance tasks on a driving range while reducing the need for separate specialist equipment.
Fully Autonomous Golf Ball Collection
The BP02 Ball Picker Kit transforms the RM21 into a professional autonomous golf ball collection system designed specifically for commercial driving ranges.
Rather than requiring an operator to spend hours driving around the range collecting balls, the RM21 follows pre-planned routes to gather golf balls automatically.
The BP02 is capable of:
- Collecting up to 3,000 golf balls per hour
- Collecting up to 63,000 golf balls per day (based on 21 operating hours)
- Carrying 1,000 golf balls in a single basket
- Collecting across the entire driving range using intelligent navigation
This level of automation helps keep the range clear while significantly reducing repetitive manual work.
Automatic Return, Unloading & Recharging
One of the biggest advantages of the BP02 system is that the workflow doesn't stop when the basket becomes full.
Instead, the RM21 automatically:
- Detects when the basket reaches capacity
- Returns to the unloading station
- Unloads collected golf balls automatically
- Travels back to its charging dock when required
- Recharges itself
- Continues scheduled operations
This creates a continuous maintenance cycle with very little operator involvement, allowing staff to focus on customers and other important maintenance tasks.
Still a Powerful Commercial Robotic Mower
The ball picker doesn't replace the RM21's mowing capability—it adds to it.
Once the BP02 attachment has completed its work, the RM21 platform can be fitted with its mowing deck, allowing the same machine to maintain the driving range throughout the growing season.
The RM21 features:
- 635mm cutting width
- Adjustable cutting height from 20–127mm
- Up to 12,000m² mowing per charge
- Up to 5 hours operating time
- Fast charging option available
Instead of buying and maintaining separate mowing and collection machines, the RM21 gives you both capabilities on one commercial robotic platform.
Intelligent Navigation for Real-World Driving Ranges
Driving ranges rarely consist of perfectly open spaces.
Trees, slopes, target greens and changing terrain can create challenges for conventional autonomous machinery.
The RM21 addresses this through:
- RTK positioning
- LiDAR perception
- 360° obstacle detection
- Physical safety bumpers
- Intelligent path planning
- Multi-zone management
For sites with varying elevations, the system can also use slope mapping to automatically adjust travelling speed for safer and more reliable operation.
Smart Mapping & Fleet Management
Every driving range is different.
Using the FJD P2 LiDAR Scanner, operators can quickly create an editable 3D map of the site before defining working zones and schedules.
The cloud-based management platform also allows operators to:
- Monitor robot location
- Check battery levels
- View basket status
- Assign work zones
- Coordinate multiple RM21 units
For larger commercial driving ranges, multiple machines can work together to maximise productivity across the entire facility.
Why More Driving Ranges Are Automating Maintenance
Labour shortages, increasing operating costs and rising customer expectations mean many driving ranges are looking for smarter ways to manage daily operations.
The RM21 and BP02 help by:
- Reducing repetitive manual work
- Increasing productivity
- Improving consistency
- Lowering operating costs
- Maximising machine utilisation
- Freeing staff for customer-facing roles
- Maintaining a consistently professional appearance
Rather than spending hours every day collecting golf balls, your team can focus on delivering a better customer experience while the RM21 works in the background.
RM21 & BP02 Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Picking Width | 900mm |
| Maximum Picking Capacity | 3,000 balls per hour |
| Maximum Daily Capacity | Up to 63,000 balls |
| Basket Capacity | 1,000 golf balls |
| Maximum Picking Time | 12 hours |
| Maximum Picking Capacity Per Charge | 36,000 balls |
| Cutting Width | 635mm |
| Cutting Height | 20–127mm |
| Mowing Area Per Charge | Up to 12,000m² |
| Battery Capacity | 4kWh |
| Operating Time | Up to 5 hours (mowing) |
| Fast Charging | Approximately 3 hours |
Performance depends on operating conditions, terrain and grass type.
Is the FJD RM21 Right for Your Driving Range?
If your driving range is looking to reduce labour costs, improve operational efficiency and embrace the latest autonomous technology, the RM21 and BP02 offer an exciting solution.
Combining commercial robotic mowing with fully autonomous golf ball collection, automatic unloading and self-charging, the RM21 is designed to take care of two of the most repetitive daily maintenance tasks—allowing your team to focus on delivering an outstanding experience for every golfer.
Talk to the FJD Specialists
At Scrase Farms, we're proud to supply the latest FJD autonomous turf maintenance equipment across the UK.
Whether you're managing a commercial driving range, golf club or practice facility, we'd be happy to discuss how the FJD RM21 and BP02 Ball Picker Kit could help modernise your operation.
Contact our team today to arrange a demonstration or request a personalised quotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the RM21 mow and collect golf balls?
Yes. The RM21 is a multi-functional robotic platform. It can be fitted with different attachments, including the BP02 Ball Picker Kit and its commercial mower deck, allowing the same machine to carry out both tasks.
How many golf balls can the BP02 collect?
The BP02 can collect up to 3,000 golf balls per hour and up to 63,000 balls per day, depending on operating conditions and scheduling.
What happens when the basket is full?
The RM21 automatically returns to the unloading station, empties the collected golf balls and continues its scheduled operation with minimal operator involvement.
Does the robot recharge itself?
Yes. Once required, the RM21 automatically returns to its charging dock before continuing future scheduled operations.
Can multiple RM21 robots work together?
Yes. Fleet management allows multiple RM21 units to be monitored and coordinated across larger driving ranges from a single interface.