How Do Robot Vacuums Work?

The new wave of robotic vacuums has many people asking themselves one big question: Just how do they work? This is a good question and one that turns out is not altogether hard to figure out.

In this article, we are going to break down the two main ways these lifesaving contraptions work and answer a few of the most asked questions. So, let’s put our feet up and get to the technicalities of how robotic vacuums work.

How They Work

The mechanical components that drive these units are very similar; it is the method of seeing that really differentiates the two models from each other. There are some models that use sensors to keep them on track while other more high-end options may use mapping technology to get them from point A to point B. So, let’s look at each type before we move on.

Sensor

Your robot vacuum doesn’t have eyes as we traditionally think of them, but they do need a way to navigate the obstacles and pitfalls as they suck up all of that dirt and dust from your carpet or hardwood floors.

So how do they avoid all the obstacles? The simple answer is that they are equipped with multiple sensors that allow them to detect obstacles, that let them know how far they have gone and to see if there are any new areas that need to be tackled. Most of these types of models have the following sensors to help them navigate the terrain:

Obstacle

These are used to navigate away from obstacles. So, if your robot vacuum runs into a wall or table leg, it will move in the opposite direction from the hit.

Wall

This is a sensor that uses infrared light to guide the robot vacuum along wall surfaces.

Cliff

As you can guess, this sensor detects if there are any sharp drop-offs. Once it logs that there is, the vacuum will move in the opposite direction.

Wheel

This sensor is used to calculate distance. Using a light sensor, it takes note of the number of the wheel's rotation and uses its internal computer to calculate how far the vacuum has traveled.

This type of tech is almost exclusively now used in lower-end robotic vacuums as a new wave of models increasing relies on the following method of navigation.

Mapping Tech

Camera

This model will have an onboard digital camera include in the design. By taking pictures of the robot vacuum’s surroundings, the mechanism can map and move through the floorplan of any house in a more efficient manner than the sensor-based options above.

Laser Range Finder

The best robotic vacuum brands use laser mapping and are more efficient when it comes to paths. They also can return to the charging point and pick up where they left off if need be.

In the future, all models will be equipped with this method and several other options that may improve the functionality of these handy root helpers. In addition, things like self-cleaning, the ability to climb stairs and many other features may make their way into new designs and that will mean more efficiency and cleanliness without even lifting a finger. For example, the latest models of Roomba robot vacuums are self-emptying!

Robotic Vacuum FAQ

Now that you have a better understanding of the basics of how the robotic vacuums work, let’s answer a few pertinent questions that may help you out a little further.

We have curated this list to help with making your understanding of what these robotic vacuums can and can’t do better. Here are the questions we thought you may have:

Do robotic vacuums really work?

Most robotic vacuums work well but make sure you take into consideration how thick your carpet is. If you have a thick carpet, you may want to on occasion, go over it with a bigger vacuum that has more power. Other than that, these little mechanical godsends work well.

Are robotic vacuums worth it?

If you are someone on the go or have kids and pets, then having access to a robot vacuum that can be scheduled or used with little to no effort is well worth it. In fact we ran the numbers to see whether Robot Vacuums are worth the cost. We found that if you value your time then they pay for themselves pretty quickly.

There are even robot vacuums specially designed to tackle pet hair. They are also great for people who have back problems or mobility issues.

In summary, there are many advantages to having a robot vacuum versus a regular vacuum. But that's not to say you can throw out your regular vacuum, you'll still need that too.

Do robotic vacuums work on carpet?

Most models work extremely well on both hardwood and carpets. This is done with onboard tech that allows the robot vacuum to detect when there is a change in the surface and adjust accordingly.

Do robotic vacuums work in the dark?

This depends on the model. For the most part, the answer is yes. However, there are a few units that will need light from the camera to see where they are going. If you want to do a little cleaning while you sleep, make sure you pay attention to the features and find one that works without light.

Final Thoughts

Making your life easier by purchasing a robot vacuum is a great idea. With the information above, you can understand a little better how it works and how to get the most from your investment. Knowing your home’s layout and the floors that your vacuum will have to cover can help make the process of section a little easier too.

Taking time to read the manual and set everything up will take very little effort and you will be able to take advantage of this amazing technology. No matter your budget, you should be able to find a robotic vacuum model that meets your needs and your budget.

Neato and iRobot Roomba are two of the most popular robot vacuum brands and they have a broad range of models to suit all budgets.

With the fast-paced world of technological advancements, it won’t be long until these robotic vacuums graduate into robotic maids. Wouldn’t that be amazing!