xLean TR1: Robot vacuum can be controlled with gamepad and transformed into cordless vacuum
Most high-end robot vacuums, such as the Roomba Max 705 Combo (from $899 on Amazon), offer a docking station that automatically empties the dust bin, a mopping feature and intelligent navigation. The xLean TR1 supposedly goes a step further in several regards. This starts with the mopping function, as the TR1 features not one, but two mopping rollers.
This setup apparently allows the robot to thoroughly clean floors 50% faster than robots with just one roller. The base station cleans both rollers with hot 167°F water and then dries them with hot air. The station further empties the dust bin and charges the robot. xLean Robotics advertises a suction power of 17,000 Pa, but the TR1 is also intended to surpass competitors in terms of navigation. To do so, the manufacturer pairs a 360-degree LiDAR scanner with a 3D camera system that works in low light thanks to two built-in headlights.
However, the most unusual feature is the handle, which can be stored in the charging station and basically turns the robot into a conventional cordless vacuum cleaner with a mopping function. Another unusual feature is the option to remotely control the robot with a gamepad. On the other hand, the robot is quite large and measures 15 x 11.6 x 5.2 inches. The height can be particularly problematic, as the robot won’t be able to clean under certain pieces of furniture.
Price and availability
The xLean TR1 robot vacuum and mop will be crowdfunded on Kickstarter starting in March, with deliveries expected to kick off in the summer. Early supporters can preorder the robot for $949, but the retail price is expected to increase to $1,699 later on.
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