home > Computer > Smart robot vacuum cleaners - how do they work and are they really useful? How a robot vacuum cleaner works: description with photos and videos How robot vacuum cleaners work.

Smart robot vacuum cleaners - how do they work and are they really useful? How a robot vacuum cleaner works: description with photos and videos How robot vacuum cleaners work.

Not everyone would call cleaning an apartment their favorite activity. With the fast pace of modern life, it can be difficult to find time for rest and sleep, let alone a couple of hours for mopping floors and cleaning carpets. The solution is to buy a robot vacuum cleaner. It will help keep the house clean. However, your presence is not required for its functioning. How does a robot vacuum cleaner work? Let's talk in this article.

Principle of operation

Robot vacuum cleaners, like other household electrical appliances, are evolving. The latest released modifications of such devices are radically different from the first models. Initially, smart equipment did not provide the ability to see objects, and its cleaning ability could not be called ideal. In other words, it could not compete with manual floor cleaning.

Modern devices produced by such well-known companies as iRobot, Yujin Robot, Panda Robotics, Xiaomi, can efficiently clean any surface, even not completely smooth ones. They are equipped with scanners and sensors that allow you to create a map of the room. In addition, today's home helpers know how to avoid falling down stairs and clean corners, and can also avoid colliding with an obstacle by walking around it with amazing accuracy.

Several jointly working devices help the robot vacuum cleaner clean floors. IN modern devices Multi-mode is provided. They choose their own operating mode, focusing on the type of surface that needs to be cleaned. Components combined devices for cleaning floors are:

Brushes for collecting large and light debris.
Side brushes for “sweeping” dust particles under equipment.
Rubber brushes for collecting fine heavy dirt such as sand.
Air suction system.
Spray bottle for spraying water in wet cleaning mode.
A device for removing moisture from a surface.

The number of brushes used in robotic vacuum cleaners can vary from 4 to 10 pieces. The suction system picks up dust and dirt from the bottom of the vacuum cleaner. Then the debris, along with the air mass, enters the filtration module - where it settles. The purified air is released back into the room.

Attention! Do not forget to monitor the condition of the filters in the device. They need to be changed from time to time, because with prolonged use they wear out and cannot purify the air with the same efficiency. And this negatively affects the quality of cleaning and negatively affects human well-being.

As for the design features of the dust collection module, each model has different filters. Economy-class appliances may have primitive filter cloths, similar to those found in standard vacuum cleaners. Elite cleaning equipment is equipped with complex multi-layer HEPA filters that are capable of trapping even the smallest dust particles.

Speaking about the volume of the dust collection container, it can vary. The range of fluctuations is 250-1000 ml. This part of the vacuum cleaner needs regular cleaning of collected debris. This is the only way the device will maintain its effectiveness. In addition, this is a guarantee that the equipment will last a long time.

Since the power of such devices varies from 40 to 65 W, they fall into the category of energy-efficient equipment. The robot vacuum cleaner is autonomous. It does not require a power outlet to operate - it runs on a battery. It takes from 3 to 5 hours to charge. A fully charged unit can work for 2-3 hours and clean two or three fairly spacious rooms.

Navigation system

Today, a lot of technologies have been developed that allow a home robot vacuum cleaner to understand the dimensions and configuration of a room. They can be used in the device in various combinations. This is about:

cameras;
laser sensors;
infrared sensors;
bumpers with touch sensors;
infrared beacons and virtual walls.

Manufacturers are constantly trying to develop and complement existing techniques. The most advanced units have more accurate and intelligent systems, giving them the ability to work without the participation of the owner. And the most expensive models can be controlled using a remote control or voice commands.

Orientation using cameras

Thanks to its cameras, the robot vacuum cleaner constantly receives visual images, which allows it to create a kind of map and use it to more accurately move around the apartment. By comparing the photographs taken, the processor evaluates the geometric parameters of obstacles and can find its own charging base.

Using laser sensors, a robotic cleaner can get an idea of the size of the space it occupies. This technique gives him the opportunity to accurately assess the configuration of furniture and other items. After analyzing the data collected during scanning, the internal computer builds a three-dimensional model of the room, which allows the robot vacuum cleaner to more accurately understand the environment and plot the most convenient route for it. The presence of laser sensors helps the device save cleaning time, reduces its wear and extends its service life.

Infrared light sensors

The system for emission and research of light in the infrared spectrum is located in the front of the smart assistant. It is necessary in order to evaluate the surfaces located nearby. This is how the robot vacuum cleaner understands, for example, where the stairs begin. Modern models do not yet know how to overcome steps, but they can accurately understand where the horizontal surface breaks off. Therefore, it is in their power to clean it entirely and not fall off.

Collision sensors

In addition to infrared light sensors, there is a bumper on the front of the device. When it encounters an obstacle, it sends information about it to the processor. The computer receives information about the specific point of collision relative to the axis of the vehicle body. It helps him understand where to turn to continue moving.

Communication using beacons and magnetic tapes

Some situations require clarification of the robot vacuum cleaner's movement area. A variety of additional devices help to implement this in practice, among which infrared beacons and magnetic tapes stand out most clearly. The lighthouse looks like a small cube. It is placed in the right place to indicate any control point like a doorway. The magnetic tape is placed on the floor, limiting the robot's work area. So, with its help you can separate an area for kids to play. After all, no one wants children playing to come into contact with technology.

After the home robot vacuum cleaner has decided to complete cleaning, according to the instructions, it must return to the base and recharge. Current models have a map of the room in memory, so they can understand where their “garage” with the charging connector is located. Smart equipment can independently decide to return to the base to recharge if the charge level battery will go lower certain value. After this, it will return to the interrupted operation. Paving the way to the base, the processor applies the received information about the room, also guided by the infrared beacon built into the “garage”.

Once turned on, the robot vacuum cleaner goes on an independent journey around the house, cleaning the floor and saving the owner precious time. It is often used as a way to maintain cleanliness between full cleanings of the apartment.

Attention! Having decided to buy yourself such an assistant, do not forget that its capabilities begin and end with cleaning the floor. He will not wipe dust from furniture and will not move it to gain access to places that are inconvenient for cleaning. Although it will cope with dust under the bed better than a regular vacuum cleaner.

The current market offers an impressive range of varieties of robotic cleaners, each of which covers specific tasks. Almost all models today are equipped with a so-called obstacle avoidance system, and many can be operated by remote control remote control. In the class of elite robots, there is a trend towards increasing responsibilities. Thus, some manufacturers equip their products with additional options, including Internet connection, home video surveillance systems or air purification systems.

The house must be kept clean, since dirt negatively affects the health of its residents and can cause allergic reactions and even cause asthma. A robot vacuum cleaner is an excellent solution that allows you to save time and take care of the well-being of your household.

Proper care of a robot vacuum cleaner is an important condition for its uninterrupted long-term operation. This requires regular cleaning. And you need to not only remove debris from its container, but also tidy up the brushes, sensors, and guide wheel. In addition, you must be able to extend the life of its batteries and prevent the device from failing due to improper operation.

Let's consider the main aspects of use and care:

How to use
How to turn it on
How to clean
How to setup
How to charge

Getting started with a robot vacuum cleaner

Some models work independently of the person. They can be easily configured to turn on when no one is home. But before using a robot vacuum cleaner, you must first prepare the room. It is necessary to remove from the floor all large objects that could interfere with the movement of equipment. You also need to install “virtual walls” (if they are included in the kit). They serve as limiters for equipment if it is necessary to prevent its movement in a certain part of the room. The peculiarity of the operation of “virtual walls” is that they are not autonomous; they are turned on and off simultaneously with the robot vacuum cleaner.

Turning on the robot

First, you should carefully study the instruction manual supplied with the vacuum cleaner. Many models of equipment are similar, but have structural and technical differences. Before starting the robot for the first time, the owner of the equipment is required to:

Inspect the device for damage. If they are identified, the robot must be abandoned.
Charge the vacuum cleaner battery. This will take several hours.
Configure the operation of the device, and, if necessary, program a delay in its operation.
Turn on the equipment, it should start working.
Make sure that the movements of the vacuum cleaner on the floor are smooth, without jerking. If it slips or stops often, this is a reason to contact the service department.
After cleaning, you need to turn off the device and clean it.

When the device is turned on for the second and subsequent times, it will not need to be configured unless the owner wants to forcibly change the program in it.

Safety precautions

Before using the vacuum cleaner, it must be checked in accordance with safety regulations. What you need to check before turning on the robot vacuum cleaner:

Water should not come into contact with it. If liquid gets inside its contacts, turning on the device is prohibited. It must be taken to service center For checking.
It is prohibited to operate equipment with a damaged cable. It's not safe for people.
Do not turn on the robot vacuum cleaner unless all its components are installed. This will cause equipment failure.
Before turning on the vacuum cleaner, it is necessary to remove animals and small children from the room to avoid injury to them.
The wire charging station should not be in the path of the vacuum cleaner moving around the room. If it hits the cable, it can damage it.

After taking all precautions before turning on the robot vacuum cleaner, you can begin using it. You need to press the start button, the equipment will begin cleaning the room.

How to clean a robot vacuum cleaner

Cleaning the device includes several mandatory steps. It is necessary to thoroughly clean all major parts of the equipment from contamination. This must be done regularly; the service life of individual spare parts and the vacuum cleaner itself depends on how the owner takes care of the equipment.

Emptying the trash bin

The container of the robot vacuum cleaner must be removed from the body and cleaned. Garbage bins are not recommended to be washed under running water due to the fact that they are equipped with a motor. Washing the container will cause it to break. To maintain cleanliness, the garbage container is thoroughly cleaned with a brush and wiped on top with a damp soft cloth.

Cleaning the filter

This is done every time after cleaning. This contributes to better dust absorption by the device. The filter needs to be changed every 2 months or more often if the device no longer removes dirt well.

Cleaning the central brushes

They need to be removed; simply wiping and removing dust from the outside is not enough. If you do not remove the brush and do not properly care for it, there is a risk of its premature failure. Additionally, it is necessary to clean the place where it is installed, because dust gets clogged under the bearing caps that secure the brush.

Cleaning the side brushes

Depending on the device model, the number of brushes varies - one or two, as in iBoto Aqua. They must be removed before cleaning. Regular maintenance of side brushes is weekly.

Guide wheel

If you do not take care of it, the speed of movement of equipment around the room will significantly decrease. This occurs due to the fact that debris is wound onto its axis during operation of the robot. It is necessary to remove the wheel in order to clean it of animal hair and hair; if this is not done, then removing dirt from it will take a lot of time.

Caring for Touch Sensors

They are located on the top side of the device. To keep them running smoothly, you need to keep them clean. It is necessary to wipe them with a napkin after each cleaning. An important point is that you cannot use wet cloths to wipe touch sensors, only dry ones. Moisture can disrupt their operation, causing the sensors to display erroneous data or stop functioning.

Internal cleaning of the vacuum cleaner

It is advisable to clean the inside of the vacuum cleaner once every six months. This is due to the fact that during operation dust may enter the body of the equipment. Cleaning can be carried out independently, or if the owner of the vacuum cleaner has doubts that it will cope with this work, it is worth contacting a specialized service center for servicing robotics.

Knowing how to clean a robot vacuum cleaner will help keep it working longer. You won’t have to replace parts that have failed due to poor equipment maintenance. This means it will be possible to reduce the cost of its maintenance.

How to set up a robot vacuum cleaner yourself

To set up a robot vacuum cleaner, you need to enter cleaning scheduling mode. It must indicate at what time the equipment will turn on automatically. Depending on the model, you can program the vacuum cleaner to turn on certain time day, as in iClebo Arte Silver, or to work at specified hours on selected days of the week, as in iRobot Roomba 980.

Setting up cleaning modes

In addition to setting the time, it is possible to set a specific type of cleaning. Depending on the model, robots can be programmed to:

Automatic mode, the robot itself selects the type of cleaning. It scans the surface and changes mode depending on current conditions and when it encounters obstacles along the way.
Local mode. The cleaning of a separate heavily contaminated area of the room is specified.
Cleaning by moving the vacuum cleaner across the floor in a zigzag pattern.
Mode for cleaning the floor from debris in hard-to-reach places (along walls, baseboards, near furniture).

Setting options

Through the buttons on the body.
Using the included remote control.

Charging the robot vacuum cleaner

The equipment operates independently from a power outlet. There are no wires connected to it, so it does not pose a threat to people or the risk of them tripping over the cable when the device is in working order. The device operates from a battery installed in it, which requires mandatory charging. How to charge the robot vacuum cleaner:

Before using the device for the first time, the batteries must be fully charged. On average it takes 8 - 9 hours.
While cleaning a room, the robot vacuum cleaner's batteries consume energy. Therefore, it has to be recharged periodically. When the charge level drops to a minimum, the robot searches for a base. She sends him an infrared beam. Having detected it using a sensor installed on the body, the equipment approaches the base and starts charging. Some models remember the location of their base. After cleaning is completed, they can easily find it on the map.

Extend battery life:

In order to increase the service life of rechargeable batteries, it is necessary to prevent them from being completely discharged. To do this, you need to keep the robot base always on. The vacuum cleaner itself must be in the base when it is not in use.
If you do not plan to use the equipment for a long time, you need to remove the batteries from it. The batteries are located inside the case. To get them out, you need to unscrew its bottom cover.

Charging Features

The charge status of the device must be checked before each cleaning. The fact that the device is charging is indicated by an indicator located on the base body. Once the batteries have received enough power, the robot will continue to operate. It will automatically start cleaning the room.

If the robot has not been used for a long time, it is possible automatic switching on battery recovery mode. What you need to know is that when the base operates in this mode, it will take more time to charge the battery. Interrupting the mode is prohibited, otherwise there is a risk of battery failure.

Follow the rules specified in the user manual

Proper care and proper operation will extend the life of the robot vacuum cleaner and its batteries. Then it will work for the entire service life established for it by the manufacturer, and will not require repairs or replacement of spare parts due to breakdown. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations, and your vacuum cleaner will provide you with high-quality room cleaning.

There are people who clean their floors only once a week, while there are others who do this job much more often. An attractive characteristic of robot vacuum cleaners is the fact that they meet the needs of both categories. One way or another, with them the house becomes more impeccable, requiring virtually no human factor.

Today's best robot vacuum cleaners are a far cry from the early models, which had to be searched under every piece of furniture in the house until you heard the low-energy signal. The latest models aimed at cleaning homes offer dramatic improvements in efficiency, self-cleaning ability, and the ability to find your way to a charging station on your own.

In this article we will take a closer look at how a robot vacuum cleaner works. The iRobot Roomba Red will help us understand how a robot vacuum cleaner works, and we will also check several other robot vacuum cleaners on the market.

Operating principle of a robot vacuum cleaner

The modern market offers a huge selection of robotic vacuum cleaners, prices for which vary from 3,500 rubles to 100,000 rubles. These cleaning service vacuums feature a low-slung design and compact size to maintain the ability to reach under furniture, which is not possible with traditional vacuum cleaners.

Most manufacturers will tell you that a robot vacuum is designed to complement standard vacuuming, but cannot replace that work. They are designed to perform daily cleaning, which becomes an important touch in maintaining cleanliness, so the robot vacuum cleaner is designed to maintain cleanliness between manual vacuuming. However, if you're the kind of person who never vacuums, a robotic assistant can make your floors and carpets cleaner than they already are without you having to lift a finger.

The most popular manufacturer of robotic vacuum cleaners in Russia remains iRobot, which offers a variety of models on the market, from the basic Roomba Red model to the technologically advanced Roomba Scheduler. In order to understand how a robot vacuum cleaner works, we got our hands on the iRobot Roomba Red, which will become our guide to the world of robotic cleaning. Let's start with what's inside.

iRobot Roomba Red measures approximately 13 inches (33 cm) in diameter and 3.5 inches (9 cm) in height. An external inspection of the robot vacuum cleaner reveals the following details:

Most Roombas run on NiMH batteries. The Roomba Red battery, for example, is rated at 3 amp hours and takes about seven hours to fully charge at 18 volts. Some of latest models iRobot robotic vacuum cleaners, of course, reduced this time to 2-3 hours. A full charge equals approximately 2-3 hours of cleaning time, which in the world of Roomba vacuum cleaners means 2-3 rooms before the robot needs charging. Two motorized wheels are responsible for the mobility of the robot vacuum cleaner. Roomba is driven by variable power delivery to each wheel.

The Roomba vacuum cleaner is equipped with five motors:

One behind each wheel (Total: 2);
The third controls the vacuum cleaner;
The fourth rotates the side brush;
The fifth controls a set of brushes;

If we consider it separately, then it is the navigation system that makes robotic vacuum cleaners robotic. And the main difference in the models for 3,500 rubles and for 80,000 rubles is hidden in the accuracy of the navigation sensors. The Roomba Red test subject uses iRobot's AWARE Robotic Intelligence System, a system designed to reduce human intervention in the robot's operation as much as possible. The awareness system includes several sensors that collect data from the environment, send it to the robot vacuum cleaner's microprocessor, after which Roomba's behavior is adjusted accordingly. According to iRobot, the system can respond to new inputs up to 67 times per second. Next, we will understand the navigation of robotic vacuum cleaners in detail and understand how a robotic vacuum cleaner works in more detail.

The first thing Roomba does when you press the Clean button is calculate the size of the room. iRobot was pretty vague when it came to how the robot does this, but we believe the robot sends out an infrared signal and tests how long it takes for the signal to return to a receiver located on the robot vacuum's bumper. Once the robot has established the dimensions of the room, it knows how long and far it needs to move while cleaning.

While the robot vacuum cleaner is cleaning, it avoids steps and other types of changes in height using four infrared sensors on the bottom front of the robot. These are “Break Sensors” that constantly send out infrared signals and upon receiving a negative signal, Roomba will immediately stop. If the robot approaches a cliff, the signal will disappear. Older models, like Roomba Red, simply turn around and move in the other direction, while modern models are able to clean the edge of a cliff. When Roomba Red hits something, its bumper activates mechanical sensors that tell the robot's system that it has hit an obstacle. A specific algorithm is then used that involves turning and attempting to move forward until the robot is unable to move forward.

There's another infrared sensor, which we'll call the Wall Sensor, located on the right side of the bumper and allows Roomba to move very carefully along the wall and around other objects (like furniture) without touching them. This means that the robot can walk along baseboards without bumping into them. It can also calculate its own cleaning path, which, according to iRobot, uses a preset algorithm that allows the robot to completely cover floors.

Cleaning algorithm for the Roomba Red robot vacuum cleaner

Side brush extends slightly beyond the robot vacuum cleaner to reach areas that the robot vacuum cleaner cannot access. This brush also rotates along the walls, lifting dirt and dust, directing it towards the vacuum cleaner area. The brush on the opposite side of the Roomba guides dirt that is located under the robot's body towards the vacuum cleaner.

Extractor on the underside of Roomba consists of two rotating opposite directions brushes that lift dirt and other debris, directing it directly into the trash can.

Vacuum cleaner sucks in dirt and dust that the robot kicks up as it moves across the floor.

The modern market offers a huge selection of models of robotic vacuum cleaners, each of which covers specific tasks - first of all, however, they are vacuum cleaners. Most models also come with some sort of obstacle avoidance system and operate via remote control. In addition, there are certain differences between products that have a large range in price. In this section, we will discuss several robot vacuum cleaners and their distinctive characteristics.

With the range of high-priced robotic cleaners available, you'll see a trend towards expanding cleaning duties as they do more than just vacuum the floors. Products that were previously sold exclusively in the form of robot vacuum cleaners are now starting to offer additional functions, such as Internet connectivity, home video surveillance systems or air purification systems. The future may be home robots that download music, answer the phone, preheat ovens while vacuuming your house or apartment.

To receive additional information for robot vacuum cleaners, visit the corresponding section of our website: “ “

Operating principle of a robot vacuum cleaner

Most manufacturers will tell you that a robot vacuum is designed to complement standard vacuuming, but cannot replace that work.

They are designed to perform daily cleaning, which becomes an important touch in maintaining cleanliness, so the robot vacuum cleaner is designed to maintain cleanliness between manual vacuuming.

However, if you're the kind of person who never vacuums, a robotic assistant can make your floors and carpets cleaner than they already are without you having to lift a finger.

The device of the Roomba robot vacuum cleaner

iRobot Roomba Red measures approximately 13 inches (33 cm) in diameter and 3.5 inches (9 cm) in height. An external inspection of the robot vacuum cleaner reveals the following details:

Most Roombas run on NiMH batteries. The Roomba Red battery, for example, is rated at 3 amp hours and takes about seven hours to fully charge at 18 volts. Some of iRobot's latest robot vacuum cleaners have, of course, reduced this time to 2-3 hours.

A full charge equals approximately 2-3 hours of cleaning time, which in the world of Roomba vacuum cleaners means 2-3 rooms before the robot needs charging. Two motorized wheels are responsible for the mobility of the robot vacuum cleaner. Roomba is driven by variable power delivery to each wheel.

The Roomba vacuum cleaner is equipped with five motors:

One behind each wheel (Total: 2);
The third controls the vacuum cleaner;
The fourth rotates the side brush;
The fifth controls a set of brushes;

Roomba navigation system

The awareness system includes several sensors that collect data from the environment, send it to the robot vacuum cleaner's microprocessor, after which Roomba's behavior is adjusted accordingly. According to iRobot, the system can respond to new inputs up to 67 times per second.

The first thing Roomba does when you press the Clean button is calculate the size of the room.

iRobot was pretty vague when it came to how the robot does this, but we believe the robot sends out an infrared signal and tests how long it takes for the signal to return to a receiver located on the robot vacuum's bumper. Once the robot has established the dimensions of the room, it knows how long and far it needs to move while cleaning.

Older models, like Roomba Red, simply turn around and move in the other direction, while modern models are able to clean the edge of a cliff. When Roomba Red hits something, its bumper activates mechanical sensors that tell the robot's system that it has hit an obstacle.

A specific algorithm is then used that involves turning and attempting to move forward until the robot is unable to move forward.

This means that the robot can walk along baseboards without bumping into them. It can also calculate its own cleaning path, which, according to iRobot, uses a preset algorithm that allows the robot to completely cover floors.

Cleaning algorithm for the Roomba Red robot vacuum cleaner

When we tested the robot vacuum, we found that Roomba starts cleaning by spiraling outward and then toward the perimeter of the room. After he encounters an obstacle, he believes he has reached the perimeter of the room.

The robot then cleans along the "perimeter" until it reaches another obstacle, at which point it cleans around it, finds a clear path, and continues to move around the room between objects, be it walls or furniture, until the allotted cleaning time is up.

The idea seems logical, cleaning over a period of time can provide coverage of the entire floor, but can you achieve full floor coverage in practice?

Roomba robot vacuum cleaners can clean for about two hours on a single charge. If the battery is insufficient, Roomba will simply return and connect to charger by myself.

Charging station available as an optional extra for iRobot robot models entry level However, almost all mid-range and beyond robots are equipped with a charging station.

The robot's return to base is achieved using an infrared receiver on the front bumper. When the battery of the robot vacuum cleaner is low, it begins to search for the infrared signal emitted by the base.

Once the robot finds it, Roomba follows the signal from the charging station and thus returns on its own to recharge. Some robot vacuum cleaners also return to cleaning on their own after charging.

So Roombas are smart enough to clean your floors while you watch a movie, but there are still some steps required on your part. First, you'll have to remove small obstacles on the floor to prevent Roomba from getting stuck on them and trying to pull them in. You must also tell the robot where not to move.

To do this, use the included virtual walls, which will help keep the robot within certain boundaries. Virtual walls emit infrared signals that Roomba receives through a receiver on its bumper.

When it receives a signal from the virtual wall, it knows it's time to turn around and head the other way.

The variety of sensors of the robot vacuum cleaner allows it to move around the house relatively autonomously. Now let's find out how it fulfills its true purpose: vacuuming?

Cleaning with a Roomba robot vacuum cleaner

According to iRobot, more than half of Roomba owners call them their little vacuum cleaner friends.

Electrolux, maker of the high-end Tribolite robot vacuum cleaners, says it has been receiving letters and photos from families who own the robots.

However, most people don't buy a robot vacuum cleaner because they're looking for a new pet that they don't have to feed. They buy it because the floors get dirty.

The Roomba Red robot vacuum cleaner has a three-part cleaning system. If you remove the brush assemblies, you can see two dirt sensors:

Extractor on the underside of Roomba consists of two counter-rotating brushes that lift dirt and other debris, directing it directly into the trash can.

Vacuum cleaner sucks in dirt and dust that the robot kicks up as it moves across the floor.

You'll generally need to empty the dustbin at least once for each room Roomba vacuums, and possibly two or three times, depending on how dirty the floors are.

The entry-level Roomba vacuum cleaners don't know when the tank is full, it just keeps cleaning. You will also need to replace the filter when it becomes too clogged.

The vacuum cleaner does not have a dust bag, it simply collects everything in the trash can.

In terms of suction power, the manufacturer's website claims that Roomba vacuum cleaners offer suction power identical to upright vacuum cleaners, although the specifications do not offer anything similar.

Testing of Roomba Red robotic vacuum cleaners has shown that they are excellent at cleaning wood and linoleum floors, picking up significant amounts of dirt and pet hair on low- and medium-pile carpets.

According to the manufacturer, Roomba robots are not designed to clean high-pile carpets.

Now, when you vacuum your apartment yourself, you make different decisions in the process. For example, if you see an area is particularly dirty, you spend more time cleaning it.

When you go from linoleum in the kitchen to carpet in the living room, you switch the brush and power of the vacuum to achieve maximum performance based on the type of floor and the vacuum's features.

Roomba robotic vacuum cleaners are designed to at least partially reproduce human cleaning abilities.

To figure out which areas of the floor need extra cleaning, Roomba Red uses two dirt sensors located directly above the central brush. These sensors use acoustic action.

When the stirrer lifts a large number of dirt, its particles cause stronger vibration when they hit the metal plates of the sensors. Sensors detect an increase in dirt and tell Roomba that the area is worth walking again.

In order to detect a change in floor covering, Roomba has a movable block (in which the brush is located), the height of which is automatically adjusted when it detects a rise of 1-1.5 centimeters from the floor surface.

There is also a feature available to robotic vacuum cleaners that is not available to a person with an upright vacuum cleaner: they can clean under furniture. Because Roomba Red is only 3 inches tall, it can easily roll under most tables, nightstands, beds, and even some couches. The ability to clean under furniture is perhaps one of the trump cards of robot vacuum cleaners.

The iRobot Roomba Red is a handy device, but it's just one example of a robot vacuum cleaner. In the next section, we are going to try other robot vacuum cleaners available in the market.

Models and types of robotic vacuum cleaners

The modern market offers a huge selection of models of robotic vacuum cleaners, each of which covers specific tasks - first of all, however, they are vacuum cleaners.

Most models also come with some sort of obstacle avoidance system and operate via remote control. In addition, there are certain differences between products that have a large range in price.

In this section, we will discuss several robot vacuum cleaners and their distinctive characteristics.

With the range of high-priced robotic cleaners out there, you'll see a trend towards expanding cleaning duties as they do more than just vacuum the floors.

Products that were previously sold exclusively in the form of robot vacuum cleaners are now starting to offer additional functions, such as Internet connectivity, home video surveillance systems or air purification systems.

The future may be home robots that download music, answer the phone, preheat ovens while vacuuming your house or apartment.

For more information on robot vacuum cleaners, visit the corresponding section of our website: ““

A modern working person has practically no free time.

This is why there is a need to get a special robot vacuum cleaner that can keep the house clean while you are away.

Such models are considered “smart”, capable of solving a lot of problems. But how do they work? We present to your attention detailed information with photos and videos.

Thanks to navigation system, the robot can navigate in space. Only this characteristic will determine not only the quality of the washed floors, but also whether they will be washed at all. There are 4 main types of navigation:

Each of these methods has its positive and negative sides. All navigation types work in dynamic mode, constantly scanning the space and noting possible rearrangements to adjust their cleaning plan. In addition, dirt is also recorded so that more contaminated areas can be cleaned first.

In front of an obstacle, the robot slows down or stops a little, after which it comes into contact with it and continues cleaning along the closet or sofa.

This type of navigation is similar to the first option, except that there is a function of dividing the room into several zones for the cleanest and fastest cleaning possible. Often exactly 2 sensors (beacons) are used. The first is to scan space and determine your location in it, and the other is to scan further targets.

This type of navigation is considered the most modern. Its principle is that special rangefinders are installed on the device, which determine the distance and create a map of the room, which are presented in the form of straight marked lines.

Often the camera is installed at the highest point of the robot and scans all the data from the walls, floor, etc. With such a robot, cleaning is carried out first in one room, and then the vacuum cleaner moves to another. Movement is carried out in straight lines. Among other things, this type of navigation can be not only the main one, but also additional to other options.

Naturally, the main purpose of a robot vacuum cleaner is to clean the area. In this case, all manufacturers are similar to each other. As for the classic version of garbage collection, it looks like this: while moving, the side brush sweeps all the debris towards the central one, which is capable of collecting almost all types of dirt.

Many people mistakenly think that the power unit that sucks up dust is the main part of the vacuum cleaner; in fact, it is the central brush that does all the main work. It throws dirt towards the garbage receptacle, where dust, lint, etc. are sucked out with the help of air. Clean air comes out after passing through several filters.

These are classic operating principles that are taken as a basis and applied in almost all models.

Based on the manufacturers, certain characteristics and capabilities of the robot vacuum cleaner may change:

Types and number of central brushes. Some manufacturers supply 2 brushes, the second of which is made of rubber. They specially rotate towards each other, thereby removing all contaminants very efficiently: from small to large.

Number of side brushes. You can find several models where a second additional brush is placed on the side, increasing the intensity of cleansing.

Various types of filtration. For this purpose they are used different types filters, ranging from single-layer and the simplest to high-quality HEPA. The latter are recommended for allergy sufferers.

Dust container volume and power unit power. Powers are in the region of 40-65 Watts, and container volumes are in the range of 0.4-1 liters.

The quality of cleaning is largely influenced by the central brush. But it is necessary to take into account all the parameters and characteristics when choosing a robot vacuum cleaner.

As the vacuum cleaner operates, it gradually consumes its charge, so when it reaches a certain point, it begins to look for a charging base in order not to turn off. It is oriented towards the infrared beam emanating from the base. After docking with the latter, the vacuum cleaner begins to recharge.

To correctly search for a base, the robot vacuum cleaner is equipped with a special tower or sensor that picks up signals.

Those vacuum cleaners that use lasers and cameras for navigation often simply remember the location of the base, and then simply drive, guided by the map.

Now that we know how home robotic vacuum cleaners work, it is necessary to determine the criteria for their selection. At first glance, purchasing this household appliance is no different from others, but this process must be approached with maximum responsibility.

So, before making a choice, you need to decide which qualities are a priority.

In 1860, US citizen Daniel Hess was the first to receive a patent for a device that operated using rotating brushes and air. Moreover, initially this device did not use a dust collector, but water chambers.

Most buyers, when choosing this device, pay attention to the following criteria:

Quality of cleaning. Naturally, this household equipment will not be able to perform cleaning better than a person, but the robot should bring its results closer to the maximum possible. It is necessary to pay attention to the navigation system and the ability to avoid obstacles; the quality of cleaning will depend on this. There are both regular and washable models.

Noise level. Due to the fact that the device takes a long time to clean, I would not want it to be annoying with its noise.

Purchase cost. The price of a robotic device can be very high, depending on various additional features such as Wi-Fi, etc. Everyone makes their own choice based on their financial capabilities.

Some also pay attention to the environmental friendliness of cleaning.

After monitoring the available models in this market segment, we were able to compile a rating of the best robot vacuum cleaners:

To make your final choice, watch the video.

Current rating of the best vacuum cleaners of 2017: specifications, functional features, availability of dry/wet cleaning and filter type. Ten of the highest quality models from various brands with a description of the advantages and disadvantages of each, as well as recommendations for choosing the most suitable vacuum cleaner for your home.

How a robot vacuum cleaner works + Video

Robot vacuum cleaner - household appliance with intelligence, a trend of the 21st century. Modern people loaded with various problems. For this purpose, a robot vacuum cleaner has been created, the independent operation of which is ensured special program in a built-in mini-computer.

How does a robot vacuum cleaner work?

Externally, the device usually has the shape of a disk (although there are units in the shape of a square, for example Neato VX-21), the diameter ranges from 250 to 350 mm, and the height does not exceed 130 mm.

Any robot vacuum cleaner consists of several structural elements. Their functioning ensures the quality of the final result of his work. The robot is designed as follows:

power supply or battery;
drive mechanisms that ensure movement of brushes and rotation of wheels;
navigation system;
cleaning module.

The cleaning module consists of:

Main brushes: fleecy, collecting small dirt and hair; rubber, removing larger fractions of debris, such as crumbs or sand.
Side brushes. The main purpose is cleaning in close proximity to the walls of the room.
Filters (simple or multilayer “Hepa” type).
Container with a volume of 0.4–1.0 liters.
Electric motor (N=0.40–0.65 kW).

Principle of operation

Not a single, even the most “advanced” model of a robotic vacuum cleaner can replace putting things in order in a room. Therefore, the robot vacuum cleaner, the operating principle of which is given below, is only a means of maintaining cleanliness.

While moving along a programmed route, the unit uses brushes to collect debris and dust into a special container. The waste is first passed through several stages of the filtration system. Models with the function of a washing vacuum cleaner spray a detergent solution and then collect it with a special napkin (brush).

Navigation system

The orientation of the device in space is the most important characteristic, which determines not only the quality of the work performed, but also the possibility of its implementation in principle.

Manufacturers use the following navigation systems in the operation of the vacuum cleaner.

Internal sensors

Dynamic navigation using sensors installed in a robot vacuum cleaner.

These are collision sensors, infrared fall and touch sensors, ultrasonic or echolocation sensors, pollution sensors that ensure optimal harvesting process, laser sensors-scanners, etc.

The effectiveness of this navigation system is determined both by the number and types of installed sensors, and by the speed at which the processor processes the signals received from them.

External sensors

Dynamic navigation using two types of external sensors that provide zonal division of space: beacon sensors (motion coordinators), allowing for quick and high-quality cleaning, and motion limiter sensors (virtual walls), limiting the cleaning area.
External sensors are a plastic container that generates an infrared beam that is harmless to health and invisible to the human eye.

Beacon sensors additionally generate two beams, which ensure the orientation of the robot in the zone. When capturing a beam generated by a virtual wall, the robot simply changes its direction of movement.

Laser

This system is positioned as the most modern and ensures the formation of a map of the room in the computer memory by measuring distances to selected objects using laser rangefinders installed on the vacuum cleaner.

Camera

The camera is installed at the highest point of the device, which gives it the opportunity to “look” around and allows it to read readings from the walls or ceiling. The work process is carried out exclusively in straight lines.

Cleaning process

The classic cleaning process is quite simple:

Moving along a given route, the side brush sweeps away any dirt that gets in its way into the area of action of the main brush.

Thanks to the fleecy structure, the central brush throws up contaminants (dust, dirt, wool, hair, etc.), which ensures that they are picked up by the air flow.

Next, the air flow, passing through the filtration system, comes out, and the dirt (dust) settles and is pressed into the garbage container.

Return to base to recharge

In ensuring the continuity of the cleaning process, an important role is played by monitoring the battery charge. If the charge level drops to a minimum, the device begins searching for a base signal using a special sensor.

Having detected a signal, the robot vacuum cleaner heads to the base and docks. It may take 3–12 hours to fully charge the battery, depending on the model of the device.

Units that navigate using laser systems or video cameras are able to remember and enter the location of the base into the map, which greatly facilitates the path to it.

Video of the robot vacuum cleaner working

Let us draw a conclusion about the design and operating principle of modern robotic vacuum cleaners. With all the variety of designs, configuration options and availability of options, the main criteria that influence the popularity of models remains the ratio of price and quality.

Smart technology – robot vacuum cleaner

The robot vacuum cleaner navigates in space thanks to numerous sensors, using complex algorithms, making the cleaning process as efficient as possible.

It can be programmed for any convenient time, the robot independently performs the work and returns to the base for recharging.

Thanks to its compact size, the vacuum cleaner cleans in hard-to-reach places; the side brush helps to collect dirt in corners and near baseboards.

In our technological age, when every minute counts, a lot of smart technology has appeared that helps housewives cope with everyday affairs much more efficiently. A robot vacuum cleaner is one of these assistants. Below we will look in more detail: how a robot vacuum cleaner works, its design, main characteristics and the benefits it can bring to your home.

What types of robot vacuum cleaners are there?

Depending on the functions, all models are divided into three categories: regular (for dry cleaning of premises), washing (for wet cleaning with a detergent solution), robot floor polisher (for wet and dry cleaning, which is done with microfiber cloths).

Most often, the robot has the shape of a disk with a diameter of about 30 cm and a height of 10 cm. On the top panel there are buttons for switching modes and programming. Thanks to its compact size, the robot cleans where it is inconvenient for a person: under sofas, bathrooms or bedside tables.

The robot moves on three small wheels that rotate thanks to an electric motor powered by a battery. The charge lasts for 2-3 hours of continuous operation, depending on the type of floor covering. When the charge is depleted, the vacuum cleaner returns to the base to recharge.

Which robot vacuum cleaner is better? Review of models at the link.

Design and principle of operation

Cleaning is carried out according to the same principle as a conventional vacuum cleaner. The debris is swept up by brushes and sucked into the dust collector. Rubbish is swept out of the corners near the baseboard thanks to a three-blade rotating disk made of stiff bristles, which the robot uses to treat hard-to-reach areas.

The device can work unattended, all functions are automated, you only need to empty the container from time to time, and sometimes clean the brushes and filters.

Read also: how to choose a washing vacuum cleaner for laminate flooring.

Programming and spatial orientation

The robot vacuum cleaner has artificial intelligence, and every time it encounters an obstacle, dirt or changed surface on its way, it decides what to do based on the programs that the developers have invested in it. Its movements seem chaotic, but in fact they are dictated by complex algorithms that allow the robot to cope with its functions as efficiently as possible.

In the photo, where the route of the vacuum cleaner is marked, the spirals and arcs are clearly visible, and it is also noticeable that the machine pays special attention to the space along the walls.

The robot navigates in space using sensors:

Infrared sensors protect the device from falling from a height;
Contact sensors detect impacts on vertical obstacles and give a signal to change movement; expensive vacuum cleaners create a map of the space and use it in the future to avoid impacts and calculate the most effective trajectories;
Virtual wall - the operating principle is based on infrared sensors, the wall allows you to limit the space in which the vacuum cleaner operates, for example, it can block a doorway;
Laser rangefinders allow the device to scan an area and create a map;
Ultrasonic rangefinders use the principle of echo location for more accurate orientation relative to objects;
Sensors that determine the type of surface and the dirtiest areas in order to give them the greatest attention (not available on all models).

You can program the vacuum cleaner to clean at a certain time or assign tasks by day of the week. This is convenient while you are at work or on vacation. When you return, you will find it clean and can save a huge amount of time.

The device is simply indispensable for people with disabilities, for those who keep pets (the vacuum cleaner does a good job of removing hair), for people with a lot of work, or simply for those who value their time.

If allergy sufferers and asthmatics live in the house, then you should give your preference to a vacuum cleaner with an aqua filter. Of course, it won’t be able to clean on its own like a robot vacuum cleaner, but it will significantly reduce the amount of dust and allergens, and at the same time humidify dry air.

Of course, sometimes you will have to clean it manually, since there are still certain places in the house where the vacuum cleaner cannot reach. In any case, it will free you from the bulk of daily cleaning.

Some models are equipped with a control panel, thanks to which you can direct the robot to the places of greatest contamination.

During operation, the device makes a sound similar to the sound of a hair dryer; if you like silence, program it to clean in your absence. Due to the fact that the device is battery powered, there are no unnecessary wires lying on the floor.

The machine cleans parquet floors, carpet, laminate and any other types of floor coverings, and the cleaning method will vary, for example: when working on a carpet, the robot will raise the pile in order to better cope with the task. In 3-4 hours, the robot manages to clean a room of 120 m².

Some of the most popular companies producing robotic vacuum cleaners are: Philips, iRobot, Neato, XRobot, Asus, Samsung, Smart Cleaner, LG, DeeBot. The price of such an assistant, depending on the manufacturer and model, ranges from 10,000 to 30,000 rubles.

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Robot vacuum cleaner - its functions and selection rules

Over time, more and more devices appear in our homes, designed to make our lives easier and save our time for more interesting and important things.

It is known that a lot of time and effort is spent on cleaning an apartment. And in the near future, it is not expected that there will be a robotic cleaner that does absolutely everything itself: vacuums, washes floors and windows, wipes dust and mirrors.

All these operations involve human labor, and instruments and household chemicals only make it easier.

But we still dream of how to get rid of at least a couple of tedious steps - turn on the device and get the finished result without using your hands.

What are robot vacuum cleaners, their types

A robot vacuum cleaner is a device equipped with artificial intelligence that is capable of cleaning surfaces automatically. Robots have appeared on the market not so long ago and, despite the rapid development of this technology, they are still far from perfect.

Visually, the robot vacuum cleaner resembles a disk about 10 cm thick and about 30 cm in diameter. Although there are models shaped like a square with rounded corners. Thanks to their low height, these machines easily penetrate under beds, wardrobes and sofas - that is, those places where we don’t get to every time.

The robot moves using an electric motor and small wheels, usually 3 in number. The vacuum cleaner is controlled by buttons located on the upper surface of the disk.

The robot is equipped with a battery, the capacity of which determines the period of continuous operation of the cleaner. The average area is 20 square meters. m such a robot will clean in about 45-50 minutes.

There are many models on the market in different price categories, with different sets of functions. However, price does not always determine quality.

Therefore, even before choosing a specific model of robot vacuum cleaner, you need to create a clear picture of your desires and realistically assess the possibilities of getting what you want.

This will greatly help you choose the right model when purchasing and avoid disappointment from its use.

So, types of robot vacuum cleaners:

Directly a robot vacuum cleaner designed to remove dust and debris from surfaces by suctioning them with an air flow.
Washing robot vacuum cleaner - its task is to wet clean floors using detergents.
Robot floor polisher can perform both dry and wet cleaning using microfiber cloths.

What devices help the vacuum cleaner navigate in space?

This question interests many, so it is worth covering it separately. To ensure that the movements of the device are as meaningful as possible, several technologies are used at once:

Contact sensors protect the device from running into various obstacles. They are located close to the edge of the case and are triggered even with a light impact. In this case, the robot receives a signal about the presence of an obstacle and changes its trajectory.
An ultrasonic rangefinder helps determine the distance from a vacuum cleaner to an object by emitting ultrasound and capturing its reflection from an obstacle.
Laser rangefinder - helps the robot scan the surrounding space and make a map of the room. The function is necessary so that the vacuum cleaner can process the entire area of the room as much as possible.
Virtual wall - infrared sensors that allow you to “block” the passage of the vacuum cleaner to other rooms. They are used to prevent the robot from leaving the room.
Infrared sensors are designed to prevent the device from falling from a height. They are necessary where there are flights of stairs from which the device can fall and break.
The “local cleaning” function allows you to set the robot a certain range of action. Used in places where it is necessary to clean the surface especially thoroughly.

Other device functions

All robot vacuum cleaners are supplied with a base on which they are recharged. When the battery charge approaches a certain minimum, the vacuum cleaner independently rushes to its base, finds it using special sensors and connects to the charger. Once charging is complete, it will continue working on its own.

Depending on the “advancement” of the model, charging time can take from 40 minutes to 8 hours. Pollution sensors - most models are equipped with them. These devices allow you to identify the most contaminated areas, while cleaning them takes longer and is more thorough.

Surface recognition sensors allow the vacuum cleaner to recognize the type of surface and use the appropriate mode to clean it.

Cheap models of vacuum cleaners often get tangled in wires lying on the floor, so they have to be lifted before cleaning. More expensive models use a system to prevent the robot from becoming entangled in wires or any small objects. When it is triggered, the operation of the brushes and vacuum cleaner is turned off, and the robot itself tries to leave this place, after which work resumes.

The air ionization function is necessary for those families with allergies. It involves the presence of an ultraviolet lamp in the device, which disinfects the surface being cleaned, thereby reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
There are models that can accompany cleaning with music. Of course, this is overkill, but someone might like it.

Each robot vacuum cleaner is equipped with a bag or container for collecting dust. Usually it is emptied manually, but in expensive models this function is automated. Cleaning the container occurs simultaneously with recharging the device.

Some models are equipped with attachments for collecting pet hair. But you shouldn’t hope for a miracle: they won’t be able to clean a shaggy carpet filled with wool.

Disadvantages of robot vacuum cleaners

In order not to experience disappointment from using an expensive car, it is worth knowing about its disadvantages:

A robotic vacuum cleaner is not able to efficiently clean the corners of the room.
Even if the robot has height sensors, you need to make sure that it does not fall down the stairs.
Before starting the robot, you need to first prepare the room: remove large debris from the floor (which it will not be able to “swallow”), small objects (which it will pull inside the bag without difficulty), it is advisable to lift chairs and wires (so that the robot does not “get lost” in them) .
Do not throw away your regular vacuum cleaner, because the robot cannot clean furniture and carpets on the walls.
Most models can only work on flat surfaces, so they will not be able to clean textured flooring or long-pile carpets.

What to look for when choosing a home assistant

There are several main criteria that must be taken into account when choosing:

The number of sensors the model is equipped with. The more diverse they are, the better the robot will navigate the space of your home. This means that cleaning will be more efficient.
Carefully study the design of the cleaning part of the unit. It usually has brushes for collecting debris and side brushes for cleaning in difficult to reach areas. Moreover, pay attention not to the size and shape of the brushes, but to the material from which they are made. Cheap brushes easily become clogged with threads, hair and wool, while high-quality brushes do not create these problems.
Also pay attention to the ease of care of the robot. All replacement parts and waste containers must be easily removed and replaced.
An important indicator is the capacity of the battery with which the device is equipped. The larger it is, the longer and better the machine will work. The recharging time has already been mentioned - the shorter it is, the faster the house will be cleaned.
You can still find devices on sale that are not equipped with base station recharging. This is inconvenient, because its presence makes the robot autonomous, capable of returning on its own to charge and then continue cleaning.
The ability to divide the apartment area into zones is also important - this directly affects the quality of cleaning, preventing the robot from “ironing” the same places. For such a distinction, a “virtual wall” is used, by moving which you can set the cleaning area.
The scheduled cleaning function will be useful if it is fundamentally important for you that the machine works at a certain time. This will save you from having to manually turn on the vacuum cleaner. The house will always be cleaned on time and without your guidance.
Do you need a robotic vacuum cleaner? If you don't like cleaning floors, even using a mop, then you need it. The model, of course, will be more expensive and more difficult to maintain, but the result is worth it. After all, the robot will first collect the garbage, and only then begin to wash the floor. True, you will have to change the water in it manually. It is only necessary to take into account that such a device cannot be used for coatings that do not tolerate moisture well (porous tiles, parquet, non-waterproof laminate).
The capacity of the dust collector is of great importance, which can vary from 0.3 to 1 liter. If it is too small, the robot will only be able to clean a small room. The optimal container volume is 0.3 - 0.6 liters. This is enough to clean a medium-sized apartment.

Operating rules

There are a number of rules, compliance with which will ensure a long and safe work robot vacuum cleaner:

Make sure that the robot is not exposed to water or even splashes. The outer casing can only be wiped with a dry cloth.
Before turning on the device, lift clothing, newspapers, wires, blind cords, and unstable objects higher.
It is strictly forbidden to touch the charger or robot with wet hands.
Make sure to regularly clean the brushes and dustbins and promptly clear them of debris and tangled fibers.
If for some reason the robot remains idle for a long time, remove the charged battery from it.
Never use it to clean up chemicals, spilled paint, or bleach.
Please note that if the flooring in your home is very dark, the robot may not work effectively.

As for the cost of robotic vacuum cleaners, it can range from 5,000 rubles. up to 50,000 rub. It is clear that from a low-cost model you should not expect either high-quality cleaning or long work. Here you need to focus on your own financial needs.

Also, don’t think that all robots made in China are bad. Moreover, most of the models available on our market are manufactured there. Focus on the recommendations of friends, consumer reviews and the opinions of sellers.

Do you need a robot vacuum cleaner? How does it work and how is it designed?

Robot vacuum cleaners are innovative technology with artificial intelligence, which is gradually replacing the usual vacuum cleaners for cleaning. Robots allow you to carry out high-quality cleaning without human intervention. Thanks to the improved characteristics of modern models and their small dimensions, robots will carry out thorough cleaning of dust.

Robot vacuum cleaner design

Camera for the movement of the vacuum cleaner.
Container for dust and debris.
Filter.
Powerful mechanism.
Control sensors on the bumper.
Wheels for movement.
Li-Ion battery.
Brushes for cleaning.
Grooves for polisher.

Vacuum cleaner chamber

The camera is necessary so that the robot vacuum cleaner can navigate the room. The camera allows you to create a map of where the robot has already cleaned and where it has not yet reached. Since the robot vacuum cleaner cannot go without charging for a long time, use the camera to find a short path from the cleaning site to receiving a charge.

Dust collector

The dust collector in this technique is usually small and does not have dust bags or mechanical parts. It is removed after pressing a special button on the bumper.

Cleaning filters

All debris and dirt that the vacuum cleaner pulls inside passes through a special filter. The filter is located on the back surface of the body; it is necessary in order to release only clean air from the vacuum cleaner, without allowing dust to escape from the body. The filter and dust container can be washed under the tap.

Powerful suction mechanism

The suction mechanism in robotic vacuum cleaners provides high-quality cleaning, while also having a low noise level. Located inside the case.

Control sensors

The robot vacuum cleaner is a smart home technology with built-in artificial intelligence. Typically, sensors are located on the bumper for better vehicle controllability. Using IR-type sensors, the robot detects obstacles and does not touch them.

They are installed over the area of the bumper, but not on the entire body, so if the vacuum cleaner hits an obstacle at an angle, the robot can touch its surface, but will immediately move away. Then the mechanical shock sensor will work. Depending on the movement algorithm after the impact, the vacuum cleaner will change its direction.

Some models also have another sensor, which is located on the top of the bumper. It is necessary so that the robot can pass under furniture and not get stuck.

Wheels for movement

There are 2 side wheels on the body that set the movement. There is another small wheel in front; it has no drive and is auxiliary. There is always a special sensor on the axis of the small wheel that will measure the distance traveled by the robot. Movement is ensured by transmitting torque to one of the side wheels.

Li-Ion battery

Located under the cover lithium battery a certain capacity. Its average value is 200 mAh. The battery life depends on the capacity.

Cleaning brushes

Typically, a robot vacuum cleaner has two side brushes for cleaning. They allow for better dust removal in one movement of the equipment. Walking across the floor, the robot provides a large clean strip. Two side brushes send all the dust and dirt to the main turbo brush. The turbo brush transfers all debris to the dust collector. A suction module is used for transfer.

The design of the robot will ensure high-quality cleaning even in hard-to-reach places. To reach the baseboard, one side brush is needed. But so far not a single model of smart vacuum cleaner can reach the corners.

For large debris there is a special scraper; it picks up dirt from the floor and sends it to the dust collector.

An excellent option is the Panda X600 Pet Series robot. This model has good power, efficient operation and is easy to navigate in space. Additional benefit model is a UV lamp for disinfection.

Grooves for floor polisher

Models that have grooves for the floor polisher have a floor polishing function. The base of the mop is attached to the bottom of the robot, that is, the equipment simultaneously sucks up dust and wipes the floor surface. A microfiber cloth is placed on the base of the mop.

It should be moistened before starting, since it will not be possible to wet the napkin during operation; the robot will reset the compiled motion map when it is lifted off the floor.

A soft cloth napkin will allow you to collect the most fine dust and dirt, but cannot replace a full-fledged floor cleaning.

Another model of robot vacuum cleaner, which differs high quality, efficiency and versatility is the Panda X900 Wet Clean. This model is capable of full-fledged wet cleaning, which not all robot vacuum cleaners can boast of.

Among the relatively inexpensive models, you can pay attention to iBoto Optic. This robot vacuum cleaner does not perform wet cleaning at the same level as the model described above, but at the same time it does an excellent job of its main task - that is, collecting dust. At the same time, it has a special camera installed in it, which allows it to perfectly navigate in space.

Diagram of a robot vacuum cleaner

The main elements of the robot vacuum cleaner circuit are:

6 electric drives.
Microcontroller.
Connection sensor.
IR receiver.
Height difference sensors.
LEDs for the screen.
Gyroscope for turning.

Six electric drives are responsible for the side brushes, turbo brush, suction module, and also for the movement of the side wheels.

The motherboard has a camera module, a display, a control module for all drives, as well as a special adapter that charges the battery through the robot charging base. The battery itself powers all other elements of the circuit.

On motherboard There is also a special battery.

Design and principle of operation of a robot vacuum cleaner

The operating principle of the robot vacuum cleaner is aimed at providing mechanical impact brushes on the floor. They have completely automated system and excellent suction power.

The operating principle is based on the navigation system, drive mechanisms, battery and cleaning module.

The navigation system allows the robot to move in space, avoid obstacles and clean only the area that has not yet been cleaned. Navigation through sensors occurs dynamically. There's also sensor navigation and laser view, the newest type of robotic vacuum cleaner.

How to use a robot vacuum cleaner

The device is automated and can be controlled using a display and sensor panel. Select one of three possible cleaning programs - normal, local and quick.

Local cleaning implies the need to define an area for the equipment to operate. All the necessary buttons are located on the bumper of the device. Also, modern robotic vacuum cleaners allow you to perform cleaning automatically; the equipment will turn on at a specified time.

This is especially convenient when the owners need cleanliness before they come home.

Modern robot vacuum cleaners are also equipped with a remote control, which allows them to be configured from a distance.

Do you need a robot vacuum cleaner at home and is it worth replacing conventional equipment with it?

The advantages of a robot vacuum cleaner are obvious - having such an assistant in your home, you don’t have to waste time cleaning. Besides:

The vacuum cleaner is compact and takes up little space.
Consumes a small amount of electricity.
Provides high-quality cleaning on a flat and smooth surface.
It can be controlled remotely.
Has several operating modes.

All these features of robotic vacuum cleaners greatly facilitate cleaning and save a lot of time, due to which such devices are becoming more and more common

The iRobot Roomba 980 is different big amount convenient functions and reliable design. Also, this model is very productive and at the same time has low power consumption and is distinguished by good value prices and quality.

Do you need an electric brush?

An electric brush is needed for such a vacuum cleaner, since it is it that sends all the collected debris to the dust collector. In addition, the brush ensures better productivity of the equipment. A turbo brush is always included with the vacuum cleaner.

There are people for whom it is enough to clean their apartment or house once a week. But there are those who prefer to do this more often. A robot vacuum cleaner is suitable for both cases and will do everything quickly and efficiently. What is the operating principle of such a device? The operating principle of a robot vacuum cleaner is based on several important components: a cleaning unit, navigation and drive mechanisms. Any robotic vacuum cleaner has these important elements, and the level of surface cleaning in any room depends on their quality. Next, we will try to look in detail at how a robot vacuum cleaner works for wet and dry cleaning.

Robot navigation

One of the main components of the device is the navigation system. Thanks to it, the robot is able to easily navigate the room. From how it works this system, depends on whether the vacuum cleaner gets stuck or gets lost in space, and also depends on its direct operation. This navigation system may vary depending on the manufacturer and model of the device. But there are still basic navigation systems that are in great demand. These include:

laser;
internal sensors (including gyroscope);
external sensors;
camera.

Each navigation system has its own advantages and disadvantages, but their operating principle is almost the same. How does the navigation system work in a robot vacuum cleaner?

Laser navigation is considered the most advanced. Well-known models and many others work on this principle. The principle of operation of the laser is as follows: the vacuum cleaner is equipped with a special laser range finder (lidar), which is used to determine the presence of certain objects in the room and the distance to them. This data is stored in the device’s memory and saved as a map of the room. After drawing up a map in memory, the device begins cleaning each room, and it will move along straight marked lines. Returning to base follows the same principle.

If the system works using sensors, then the principle of operation is as follows: thanks to sensors located under the body and in the bumper of the device, the robot vacuum cleaner detects any changes in the room and independently decides how to continue further cleaning. These are so-called beacons that coordinate the movement of the device.

For example, the device detects a chair on its way, then it will slow down its movement and, when it touches the furniture, begin cleaning along it. The device is also capable of detecting the most contaminated areas on the carpet or floor. Their robot vacuum cleaner cleans more thoroughly. It all depends on how many sensors the device has, their type, and also on how quickly the signal is processed by the processor. Each manufacturing company sets at its own discretion the movements and actions that the device will carry out in a given situation.

Separately, we should talk about what a gyroscope is in a robot vacuum cleaner and how it helps to navigate in space.

A gyroscope is a special mechanism that responds to changes in the orientation angles of an object (in this case, a robot vacuum cleaner) relative to the inertial reference system. Those. in simple words The gyroscope measures the acceleration and angular velocity of the vacuum cleaner, which provides information about the coordinates in space. Even simpler - the robot remembers where it came from, where it is moving and where it needs to return (in our case, to the base after finishing cleaning).

External sensors are essentially the same navigation with sensors, only using external devices to divide the room into certain zones. Thanks to this, cleaning can be better and faster. Such sensors are also called sensors, since they help limit the movement of the vacuum cleaner.

How does an external sensor work? This is a small plastic box that emits an invisible infrared signal. If a beacon is used, then two additional IR beams are sent, thanks to which the robot vacuum cleaner determines the location of the beacon. The main beacon's job is to move the device to another room. The operating principle is to stop the IR signal. The operating principle of an external sensor is simpler than that of a beacon. If the robot detects an external sensor, it simply changes its direction.

One of the navigation options is a magnetic tape for a robot vacuum cleaner, which creates a so-called “barrier”, a virtual wall beyond which the device cannot pass. The photo below clearly demonstrates the principle of operation of magnetic tape:

How does camera navigation work? In most cases, the camera is installed on top of the body. The robot vacuum cleaner takes readings from the walls and ceiling. This principle of operation is incorporated into popular robot vacuum cleaners, flagship and others.

You can learn more about the sensors of the robot vacuum cleaner from the video:

Cleaning process

Now let's directly look at the cleaning principle of the robot vacuum cleaner. His main duty is to remove debris and dirt that gets in his way. When operating, the operating principle of any model is not very different from each other and there is no such variety as in the navigation system. The principle of dry garbage collection is as follows: a brush or 2 brushes, which are located on the sides, when moving, sweep away all the dust, wool, hair and dirt that is in the corners, under furniture or near the baseboards to the central brush.

It is the main (or central) brush that plays the main role in the operation of the device. Thanks to its fleecy structure, it is capable of collecting not only dust and dirt, but also hair and fur. Many people assume that the cleaning of various particles occurs due to the motor, which sucks up all the dirt. But this is a misconception. The brush removes all dirt into the trash bin. It plays the role of a broom and after the garbage has entered the garbage collector, it is pressed there in the dust collector due to the air flow. After this, the air from the engine flows through the filters located in the garbage receptacle to the outside. The quality of the filter determines the purity of the air being blown out.

However, there are some nuances in the design and configuration of the device, depending on the manufacturer. These nuances include:

Basic brushes, their number and types. As a rule, there is one, but sometimes there are two, as in. The principle of operation is as follows: when the brushes rotate towards each other, the brush brush collects hair and various dirt, and the rubber brush collects larger debris (sand or crumbs). There are models that have only one rubber or fleece brush.
Side brushes and their number. For faster cleaning, some models have another side brush, which is installed to the left of the device. There is an opinion that two brushes do a worse job than one, because... throwing trash towards each other. We think 2 side brushes do a better job.
Filters, their varieties. A robot vacuum cleaner can have either simple filters, which are napkins, or multi-layer HEPA filters. The latter filters are preferred by people who are allergic to dust.
Container and engine power. The container volume ranges between 0.25 and 1 liter, and the power ranges from 15 to 65 watts.

It should be noted that the robot vacuum cleaner will work better due to the main brush and suction power. Therefore, when purchasing, you should first pay attention to these two factors. At the same time, if you need or clean carpets, there should be a central brush. To clean smooth floor coverings, it is better to have a suction hole without a turbo brush.

The operating diagram of a robotic vacuum cleaner is clearly shown in the video review:

If we talk about wet cleaning, the principle of operation in this case is that first of all, the washing robot collects all the dust and debris from the floor (1), after which liquid (2) is sprayed from a special water tank and the floor covering is rubbed with a brush ( 3). The final stage of operation of the washing robot vacuum cleaner is to remove dirty water from the floor with a scraper and suck it into the tank (4). It is not rational to use for cleaning carpets, laminate and parquet and is not recommended by manufacturers.

More details about how the washing robot works are described in the video:

There is also a combined one. The principle of operation of the device is that smooth surfaces are cleaned with a microfiber cloth (attached to the body from below), and carpets are cleaned with main brushes or a turbo brush.

Only in this case, dry cleaning is performed first (the robot covers the entire accessible surface), after which you install a wet cleaning unit with a cloth, wet it (or fill the tank with water) and start the robot. When wet cleaning, you need to limit the robot's contact with carpets and wooden floors if you do not want to damage them. To do this, install a virtual wall, beacons or magnetic tape in in the right places. In new models, you can directly limit the cleaning area on the map in the application.

Return to base

The robot vacuum cleaner is battery powered. In the cheapest models, if it runs out of charge, it simply turns off and you need to manually charge it. To prevent this from happening, most models, when they reach a low charge level (a certain mark), begin to look for a base to recharge. The search occurs as follows: the device’s sensor, which is located on the front of the bumper, detects the infrared beam that the base emits. As soon as detection has occurred, the robot vacuum cleaner begins to move towards the base and dock with it.

It should be noted that robots whose navigation is carried out using a laser or camera record the location of their base in their memory. Therefore, as soon as the cleaning is completed, the base is searched using the constructed map in memory.

That is why you cannot manually move a switched off robot from the base to the desired room, because... after cleaning, most likely, the vacuum cleaner will not return to the base (after all, it did not remember how it left it).

So we looked at how a robot vacuum cleaner works with wet, dry and combined cleaning. As you can see, functionality the device is already sufficient high level, he can remove debris independently, efficiently and relatively quickly!

06.09.2020

Computer

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