How does a robot vacuum cleaner navigate and clean a room?

@gabriel.bosco 

A robot vacuum cleaner uses various sensors and algorithms to navigate and clean a room. Here's a general outline of the process:

1. Mapping the room: When the robot vacuum cleaner starts, it typically uses sensors like cameras, infrared sensors, or laser range finders to create a map of the room. Some robots may also utilize simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) algorithms to continuously update and improve the map as they move around.
2. Path planning: Once the robot has the room map, it plans an efficient cleaning path. This can involve algorithms like random bounce, where the robot moves in a zigzag pattern, or some more sophisticated algorithms that take into account obstacles and optimize coverage.
3. Obstacle detection: The robot uses various sensors to detect obstacles in its path, such as furniture, walls, or pets. Common sensors include bump sensors (touch-sensitive), cliff sensors (to avoid falling down stairs), and infrared or laser sensors for longer-range obstacle detection.
4. Cleaning pattern: As the robot moves around, it uses brushes, rollers, or suction mechanisms (depending on the design) to collect dirt, dust, and debris from the floor. The collected material is stored in a dustbin within the robot.
5. Cleaning coverage: Algorithms ensure the robot covers most areas of the room. Some robots use more advanced methods like back-and-forth cleaning, while others rely on repeated randomized patterns to ensure overall coverage. By constantly analyzing the room map and adjusting its movements, the robot works toward cleaning the entire space.
6. Docking and recharging: When the robot completes its cleaning or its battery gets low, it autonomously navigates back to its docking station. Many robot vacuum cleaners are equipped with charging contacts that connect to the docking station, allowing them to recharge automatically.

It's important to note that manufacturers may employ different technologies, sensors, and algorithms in their robot vacuum cleaners, resulting in slight variations in navigation and cleaning methods.

@gabriel.bosco 

A robot vacuum cleaner navigates and cleans a room using a combination of sensors, algorithms, and programming. Here is a general process of how it works:

1. Mapping the room: When a robot vacuum cleaner is first turned on, it starts by mapping the room and creating a virtual map of its surroundings. Different models use various techniques like laser sensors, infrared sensors, cameras, or a combination of these to detect walls, furniture, and other obstacles. The initial mapping guides the robot's cleaning path.
2. Path planning: Once the robot has a map of the room, it calculates an optimal cleaning path. This path may be based on a pre-defined pattern, such as a zigzag or spiral, or it may use intelligent algorithms to navigate efficiently, covering most of the area. The robot aims to minimize overlap and avoid missed areas.
3. Obstacle detection: While following the cleaning path, the robot vacuum continuously uses its sensors to detect obstacles in real-time. It can detect furniture, walls, and other objects and adjusts its path accordingly to navigate around them. Bumper sensors, cliff sensors (for stairs or drops), and infrared sensors help in detecting and avoiding collisions.
4. Cleaning modes: Robot vacuums often offer multiple cleaning modes. These can include regular cleaning, spot cleaning (intensive cleaning in a particular area), or edge cleaning (focusing on cleaning wall edges or corners). These modes can be manually selected or automatically triggered based on the room's layout or detected dirtier areas.
5. Dirt detection and collection: Robot vacuum cleaners are equipped with sensors that detect dirt, dust, or debris on the floor. Some models may use cameras or acoustic sensors to identify dirty spots, while others rely on more basic sensors. Once identified, the vacuum directs its cleaning mechanism (such as brushes and suction) to collect the dirt into its dustbin.
6. Return to base: When the robot vacuum has finished cleaning the room or when its battery is running low, it automatically returns to its charging station. The docking station serves as both a charging point and a home base for the robot. Some models even have self-docking capabilities, ensuring they are always ready for the next cleaning session.

Throughout this process, the robot vacuum cleaner continually tracks its position using its map and sensors. This allows it to clean the room efficiently, intelligently avoid obstacles, and adapt to different situations in real-time.