Buying a Robot Vacuum With Lidar and Camera

There are many options to choose from to choose from if you're looking for a robot with lidar and camera. These kinds of robots utilize SLAM and Lidar to create maps of the space so they can navigate efficiently.

This system of navigation is superior in avoiding obstacles than gyroscopic and sensor-based systems, which can be blindsided by the dreaded dog poop pile or a random wire that is sucked up into the wheels.

Obstacle Detection

Cameras and Lidar allow robots to make more detailed maps and identify and avoid obstacles with greater accuracy. The camera also enables the robot to view inside cabinets and closets, which can be useful for navigating tricky corners or getting under furniture.

Lidar (light detection and ranger) is a sensor that sends laser beams throughout the room. The time it takes for the beams to bounce off objects and return to the sensor is used to calculate distance. The data is then integrated into an image of the room that can be used as the robot moves. Unlike cameras, which offer a visual image of the environment it is not dependent on the lighting conditions and can be extremely useful in dark environments.

Some robot vacuums employ SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping) to create an 3D map, and then utilize this information to navigate in a planned way. This is a huge advantage over robots with no SLAM. They may appear to be ping-ponging around the room or having difficulty moving around furniture.

Gyroscopes are another type of robot navigation system that utilizes the quick spinning motion of the robot to detect the distance and position of objects within the room. These are generally less expensive than systems that use lasers to determine the location of objects and generally do a good job of keeping the robot from bumping into things but may not be as effective at forming a complete map of your space or creating no-go zones around wires and other hazards.

Some robots that utilize sensors and cameras to build a 3D model of your home could identify specific obstacles like your dog's poop, or the pile of cables that's always under your desk. They can then be programmed to clear these objects, or more important, set clear no-go zones that instruct the robot not to even attempt to clean up the mess. You can track the status of your robot's mapping and no-go zones using a smartphone application which makes it easier to keep the track of your cleaning.

Mapping

The mapping technology used in robot vacuums, similar to the technology used in self-driving cars and virtual reality games, provides convenience since it allows them to navigate through your home without human error. There are many different methods of navigation available however one that has proven especially successful is Light Detection and Ranging (lidar) mapping.