A robotic helping hand (From The Northern Echo)

Samsung's new robotic cleaner

8:43pm Thursday 7th February 2013 in Games & Gadgets By Nigel Burton

LET’S face it, we could all do with a helping hand around the house. Domestic robots that do the housework could be nearer than you think.

Science fiction writers have forecast the creation of robots for decades now (why else does C3PO look like a gold-plated butler?) but it has taken awhile for technology to catch up with their fanciful ideas.

But basic domestic automatons are now a reality – and several manufacturers are betting they could be the next big thing in time-saving gadgets.

Samsung’s NaviBot CornerClean reminds me of those portable CD Walkmans that used to be popular before the iPod.

Those low profile looks allow the NaviBot to clean under low furniture and hard-to-reach areas. A wide brush maximises coverage and provides faster cleaning.

Of course, wireless carpet cleaners have been around for awhile but the NaviBot has some pretty fancy technology that makes it smarter than the average robot.

An advanced onboard camera captures 15 images per second of the room it’s supposed to be cleaning and twin computer chips build up a digital map that it uses to navigate without bumping into things.

These sophisticated sensors make the NaviBot capable of avoiding even small obstacles like power cords and small toys. Samsung reckons the tech “enables the NaviBot to determine the most efficient cleaning path for each room as it calculates its exact location and ensures all floor and carpet is cleaned”.

More impressively, if the battery runs low, the NaviBot knows to automatically return itself to the docking station for a recharge. If the cleaning cycle has not already been completed, it returns to its last location and resumes cleaning, requiring no effort or owner intervention.

If you’re afraid the NaviBot might be chewed up by your dog it’s easy enough to specify restricted areas to stop the robot blundered into a pet area.

The NaviBot is also equipped with what Samsung calls “Cliff Sensor Technology” which comprises three smart sensors that can detect an approaching drop, allowing it to adjust its path and continue cleaning. The NaviBot can also immediately sense when it is lifted from the ground, and will automatically stop cleaning to ensure no loss of energy. For added convenience, you can programme NaviBot to clean when you want, scheduling it to begin cleaning at a specific time. It can even be set to start when you’re out of the house.

I’m not sure if it can beat a Dyson just yet but it certainly takes the effort out of keeping the carpets clean.

No price yet but the NaviBot CornerClean will be available to buy in the UK from high street, online and out-of-town retailers later this year.