Why not adapt an electric actuator for steering control? Looks like you would be creating a fully custom control package for the mower anyway, electric steering should not be a big challange.
Big difference in a rotary disk for use in a drill and the the random orbit and slower speed of a sander. The stripping disk can potentially create a non-flat surface. Too easy for an inexperienced user to create problems. The random orbit sander works well and prevents issues that could...
NO, don't do this on a jointer surface! It's way too aggressive.
OP, one of the best methods for your circumstance is an orbital sander with progressively finer grits from 320 - 600 wet/dry disks. Also, if the sander has an hook and loop attachment for the pad, you can use a piece of red...
Let me noodle on this a bit. I think I know what you are proposing, I need to spend some time thinking about the medium and message. Thank you for thinking of me.