Future robot vacuums may soon be capable of performing a wide range of tasks beyond cleaning, from charging devices to displaying workout videos, according to researchers who have identified over 100 potential functions that can be reprogrammed into these machines.
The global household robots market size is projected to reach $24.5bn by 2028, making ‘robot vacuums a common sight in people’s homes.’ While these devices may struggle with simple tasks like navigating rugs and shoelaces, researchers believe they can be reprogrammed and modified to perform many more functions.
Robot vacuums have revolutionized household cleaning, providing a convenient and efficient way to maintain floors.
These autonomous devices use navigation systems and sensors to map and clean spaces, often returning to their charging docks when finished.
The first robot vacuum was the Electrolux Trilobite in 1996, but it wasn't until the introduction of iRobot's Roomba in 2002 that they gained popularity.
Today, various brands offer a range of models with advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control.
The Idle Potential of Robot Vacuums
Currently, robot vacuums are perceived as limited, single-task devices that spend most of their time idle. However, scientists from the University of Bath and the University of Calgary argue that these machines have a strong potential for practical tasks if modified accordingly. In fact, they identified 100 functions that robots could possibly perform with simple adjustments.
Repurposing Robot Vacuums: A Study’s Findings
A recent study by researchers from the University of Bath retrained a Roomba device to carry out various chores beyond its primary function of cleaning. The results showed that with minimal adjustments, a Roomba can serve multiple roles around the home. Some of the proposed tasks suggested by the scientists include:
Roomba is a line of robotic vacuum cleaners developed by iRobot, an American robotics company founded in 1990.
The first Roomba model was released in 2002 and was designed to navigate and clean floors on its own using infrared sensors and a random navigation algorithm.
Since then, the Roomba series has evolved with advanced features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, voice control, and mapping technology.
Today, Roomba is one of the most popular robot vacuum brands worldwide, known for its ease of use and effective cleaning capabilities.
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‘Charging a mobile phone’
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‘Displaying workout videos on a wall or ceiling’
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‘Acting as a home monitor to check on the oven’
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‘Showing ‘do not disturb’ messages to minimize disturbances’
These modifications required upgrades such as a cart, helmet, and robotic arm, which may not be readily available to average vacuum owners. Nevertheless, the study’s authors emphasize that people should expect more from their robots.
A New Era for Robot Vacuums
The researchers believe that taking on new tasks involves physically navigating the home to perform additional functions. They argue that this presents ‘unique opportunities’ to meet the growing need for adaptable robots and integrated systems that can seamlessly fit into our daily lives.
Dr. Adwait Sharma, co-author of the study, notes that ‘for most of the day, they sit idle.’ He emphasizes the importance of extending the utility of robot vacuums beyond their primary tasks by programming them to navigate the home and perform a range of additional functions.
