Are robotic cleaners and AI technology about to transform the cleaning industry?

In a few short years, robots have gone from science fiction to commercial fact. They may not yet be taking over the world, but they are revolutionising the cleaning industry, offering clients a more efficient — and cost-effective — clean without sacrificing quality.

At present, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) tend to be used as self-guided floor cleaners, often working alongside human staff. But there is little doubt that the technology is changing at an unprecedented rate, with repercussions for the cleaning workforce and, more broadly, how cleaning companies operate.

It isn’t just about robotics, of course. The rapid evolution of AI is changing how businesses communicate, while more sophisticated software is allowing savvy operators to access and gather data that improves cleaning practices and workforce management.

Tom Culver, founder of the Robot Factory, says that the combination of improved software and advanced robotics will see autonomous machines moving into some surprising areas of business. His company started off selling floor-cleaning robots because it seemed a natural use for the existing technology — the floor was a perfect environment for robotics and the robots relished the unsociable hours and repetitive work.

“It’s a dull, dirty and dangerous job,” Culver says. “The people that do it often don’t see it as anything more than a temporary job.” His robots are now setting their sights on higher things, thanks to developments in vision technology.

“Robots have struggled with environments like bathrooms, because every bathroom is completely different. We are on the cusp of making this a reality, however, because of new local edge devices that use super fast chips combined with vision technology and AI, which means the robot could go in and act like a human, with the right arms and the right equipment to clean a bathroom.”

Getting started
Hamish Matheson, regional president at Karcher Oceania, says his company has seen the market for vacuum robots increase steadily towards larger-scale machines for use in commercial settings.

“If you take our cleaning robot the Kira B 50, we thought we’d see interest from retail environments such as supermarkets, but where we’ve actually seen a lot of interest is from transport, logistics and warehousing,” Matheson says.

“They’ve got large floor space that requires repetitive cleaning tasks in consistent conditions, and automating these cleaning tasks can offer high efficiency compared to manual cleaning; particularly if you have machines such as the Kira B 50 that have a docking station for filling and emptying, making them truly autonomous.”

Everything is changing quickly. If you sit on the sidelines, you might be a little too late.

Tom Culver

The initial investment can be a sticking point for businesses, given how quickly the technology is changing. Nobody wants to invest heavily in hardware that could be superseded within a couple of years.

Culver says that, while he understands the hesitancy, companies should be wary about waiting too long to invest in robotics.

“Everything is changing quickly. As any new technologies come on, what I try to tell people is buy one robot, try it, and you’ll kind of figure out if it works for you. But if you sit on the sidelines, it might be a little too late.”

Matheson says that he finds customers have been less concerned about potential updates — which would be straightforward for most machines — than the upfront cost of investing.

There are two main perceived barriers. One is the upfront cost of investing in hardware and the other is the cost of maintaining the software such as with updates, licensing and re-mapping. This is where technology can differentiate in the market. Kira B 50 as an example, has automatic software updates, clear and competitive running costs and re-mapping can be done easily by the end user.

Robots in the workforce
When it comes to that cleaning process, one of the most attractive aspects of investing in AMR technology is that it promises to reduce labour costs. Robotic cleaners can be onsite 24 hours a day and deliver more regular cleans than their human equivalents.

“We’ve had an AMR in place in a healthcare logistics facility in New Zealand now for probably four or five months,” Hamish says.

“We’ve had a state-of-the-art autonomous cleaning robot in place in a healthcare logistics facility in New Zealand now for probably four or five months,” Matheson says.

“It runs for between 30 and 40 hours a week every week, fully automated with little to no human intervention. Set up is really easy and once that’s done, all that is required is the docking station with access to water and electricity and then it should take care of itself. It’s really hands off.”

How much attention does the machine require from a human?

“Very, very little once it’s set up, and it’s quite easy to do that. What you need is for the docking station to have access to water and electricity as well and then it should take care of itself. It’s really hands-off.”

At this point, Matheson says he doesn’t see robotics as having a huge impact on the labour market. What is more likely in the short term are “cobots” — or collaborative robots — that will work side- by-side with humans.

“Cobots can be a great support to the workforce to increase productivity. For example, a cobot could work alongside a hotel cleaner, undertaking the basic floor cleaning tasks such as vacuuming hallways while the hotel cleaner tends to the more complex cleaning tasks such as bathroom cleaning and changing linen.”

Culver agrees. Instead of robots being a threat to human cleaners, they offer the potential to make the work more rewarding.

“At the end of the day, these employees are valuable assets. Therefore, assigning them meaningful and more sophisticated tasks is crucial. By integrating their work with robots, the entire process becomes more engaging for them.”

People will say, well, ‘what’s AI going to do for cleaning?’ Absolutely nothing that I’ve seen just yet.

Mark Fermor

There are still some tasks that humans are better suited to tackle, including the aforementioned bathrooms.

“Anything above the floor does get a lot more difficult, so I can’t see it replacing cleaners yet,” Culver says.

“Robotics is not really about replacing any humans. The humans are going to act in a more clever way, meaning their interactions with the robot, and what you’ll end up with is a cleaner facility, cleaned in a smarter way.”

The internet of things
Still, the robot revolution might be some way off. Mark Fermor, APAC general manager at TEAM Software, says that he doesn’t see robotics transforming the cleaning industry just yet. He says the main challenges in the near future won’t be companies finding a quick fix through robotics or the much-hyped AI, but learning how to make better use of the software tools that are already available.

“People will say, well, ‘what’s AI going to do for cleaning?’ Absolutely nothing that I’ve seen just yet,” says Fermor, whose software is designed to improve productivity in the cleaning, security and facility management industries.

“Maybe AI is going to be a cool chatbot on your website, but is it going to make your cleaning more efficient? There is absolutely no proof of that yet. You need skilled people to understand how to do that. All I see right now are many companies really trying to get to the basic use level of the technology that is currently available to them.”

New developments in software and app technology mean that cleaning companies are being presented with more data than ever, which will require more sophisticated software to interpret and extract meaningful conclusions.

Fermor says the much-hyped “Internet of Things” — in which devices including robots communicate information such as needing to be emptied or refilled — is yet to make a meaningful impact on the industry.

“I’m very sceptical about the Internet of Things because of its reliance on hardware. We have systems that require hardware, and it provides a single point of failure. But perhaps that is going to improve with more reliable manufacturing, so I’m not writing it off. Perhaps in the next five to 10 years, it will begin to make sense.”

The next great leap
Culver says these next five or so years will see a great leap forward for robotics, as AI becomes embedded in every aspect of our technological lives.

“It’s a really exciting time for robotics. We’re moving into the AI and vision space, where we can pretty much take any of our robots, add a separate camera, and turn them into ‘super robots’.”

He gives the example of a cleaning robot that can be adapted into not only cleaning a supermarket floor but also zooming around monitoring stock levels, spillages and slip risks or even theft.

“We have one in a grocery store that can literally do anything that you’d have a human do. It can even be trained to go and hang around the sweets section at three o’clock when the kids are out of school to watch for theft. That’s just the tip of the iceberg.”

Matheson says the next frontier for robotics will be outdoor cleaning.

“As the collaborative way of working with robots indoors becomes more mainstream, I think we’ll start to see a natural evolution to automation in outdoor areas. Think of larger sweepers and outdoor scrubbers autonomously cleaning areas such as sporting precincts and exhibition complexes, intuitively adapting to the environment, taking into consideration elevation, weather and other complexities.”

Some companies have already branched out into AMRs that can patrol beaches or scrub the hulls of sea vessels without having to drag the boats from the water. Culver says his company is working with clients on robots that can scale outdoor areas humans struggle to access, including windows on high-rise buildings.

For his part, Fermor thinks the near future for the cleaning industry will be more about developing the skills needed to thrive in the digital age.

“Business intelligence is knowing something before your competitors,” Fermor says.

“In today’s world, that means interpreting data into meaningful information. The gap between having the data and having the skill to project it into meaningful information is huge, not just in the cleaning industry, but everywhere. You really need a special skill set to understand how to interpret data that new systems and software provide.”

In recent years, much discussion has been about technology’s role in our society. Some people believe technology is bad for us, while others think it can be used for good. But what about the role of technology in security? How can we use technology to make our world a safer place?

One way that we can do this is by using security robots. Security robots are becoming increasingly popular in several industries, including healthcare, retail, and even schools. 

Here are just some of the many benefits of using security robots:

1. They Can Deter Crime

The presence of a security robot can deter would-be criminals from committing crimes. This is because criminals are always looking for easy targets. If they see a security robot, they may be less likely to target that particular location. 

2. They Can Help to Keep People Safe

Security robots can help to keep people safe in some ways. For example, they can be equipped with cameras and sensors to detect potential threats. They can also be equipped with two-way radios to communicate with human security guards if necessary. 

3. They Can Help Save Money

The use of security robots can help save money in several ways. Security robots can be a cost-effective security solution, especially compared to hiring human security guards. This is because they can do the work of several human guards at once. Additionally, they may also help to reduce insurance costs. This is because insurance companies often offer discounts to businesses that use security measures such as security robots. 

4. They Are Environmentally Friendly

Another benefit of using security robots is that they are environmentally friendly. This is because they do not produce any emissions or pollution. They may also help save energy by reducing the need for lighting and other security measures that use electricity. 

5. They Can Perform Remote Monitoring

Security robots can be equipped with cameras and other sensors, allowing for remote monitoring of areas. This is especially helpful in extensive facilities where hiring a human security presence would be impractical.

6. They Can Ensure Quick Response

Security robots can be equipped with sensors to respond quickly to potential threats. By providing the first line of defence, these robots can help keep people safe in various settings. Whether it’s a school, a hospital, or an office building, security robots can help create a safer environment for everyone.

Security robots are just one example of the many ways that technology can be used to improve security. As technology advances, we expect to see even more innovative security solutions that will help keep us safe.

Conclusion

It is evident that technology, specifically security robots, brings many benefits. Security robots provide an extra security layer, benefiting businesses and individuals. They are also less expensive than hiring security guards, and they can work around the clock. In addition, security robots can be used in dangerous situations, such as active shooter situations, where a human security guard would be at risk.

The Robot Factory is a company that specialises in security robots in Australia. We offer a wide variety of machines for personal and commercial use and have a team of experienced professionals who can help you choose the right one for your needs. Schedule a trial today!

If you manage a commercial facility, you know how important it is to keep the floors clean. Not only does it create a more inviting environment for customers and employees, but it also helps to prevent slips and falls. One of the best ways to keep your floors clean is to invest in a commercial floor-cleaning robot.

Not only are these robots highly effective at cleaning floors, but they can also save you time and money in the long run. Here are seven reasons why you should invest in a commercial floor-cleaning robot:

1. They’re Extremely Efficient

One of the biggest advantages of commercial floor cleaning robots is that they’re extremely efficient. Unlike traditional floor cleaners, these robots can clean large areas in a short amount of time. This means that you’ll be able to clean your floors more often, which will result in a cleaner overall appearance.

2. They Can Clean Multiple Types of Flooring

Another big advantage of commercial floor cleaning robots is that they can clean multiple types of flooring. This includes hardwood, tile, linoleum, and even carpet. This means that you won’t have to worry about buying multiple types of cleaners or hiring different cleaners for different flooring.

3. They’re Easy to Operate

Another advantage of commercial floor cleaning robots is that they’re easy to operate. Unlike traditional floor cleaners, these robots are designed to be used by anyone. This means that you won’t have to worry about training your employees on how to use them.

4. They’re Low Maintenance

Another advantage of commercial floor cleaning robots is that they’re low maintenance. Unlike traditional floor cleaners, these robots don’t require any type of regular maintenance. This means that you won’t have to worry about buying new parts or hiring someone to come and service them.

5. They’re Environmentally Friendly

Another advantage of commercial floor cleaning robots is that they’re environmentally friendly. Unlike traditional floor cleaners, these robots don’t use any harsh chemicals. This means that you won’t have to worry about harming the environment.

6. They Can Increase Your Business’s Bottom Line

Another advantage of commercial floor cleaning robots is that they can increase your business’s bottom line. Unlike traditional floor cleaners, these robots can save you money in the long run. This is because they’ll allow you to clean your floors more often, which will result in a cleaner overall appearance.

Conclusion

If you are considering investing in a commercial floor cleaning robot, there are several factors to consider. The type of flooring, the size of the area to be cleaned, and the frequency of cleaning are all important factors. In addition, the price of the unit and the availability of replacement parts should also be considered.

There are many benefits to using a commercial floor cleaning robot, including the fact that they are very efficient and can save a lot of time. In addition, they are easy to use and require very little maintenance. Overall, they are a great investment for any business that needs to keep its floors clean.

Get your business to the future’s fore by partnering with the leading service robot company in Australia. Our company provides the finest service robots with proven ROI so businesses can do away with mundane tasks and focus on growth. Get in touch with us today for any inquiries or a free consultation!

In a world fuelled by innovation, there exists a realm where machines don’t just assist but evolve alongside us, fundamentally altering the course of industries and human experiences alike. Welcome to the riveting world of robotics – a domain that’s ceaselessly evolving, promising breakthroughs that challenge the limits of human potential. Picture this: a robot gliding through a bustling warehouse, sorting and organizing products with uncanny precision. Another robot collaborates with surgeons in a delicate medical procedure, enhancing their capabilities and minimizing risks. Yet another robot operates autonomously in hazardous environments, conducting tasks that are too perilous for humans. These scenarios are no longer distant dreams. From manufacturing floors to medical labs, from outer space to our living rooms, robotics is rapidly weaving its presence into the fabric of modern existence. Amid this technological renaissance stands a true innovator, shaping the robotic landscape Down Under – The Robot Factory, a prominent service robot company in Australia.

While Australia boasts the highest minimum wage in the world, it also grapples with a formidable challenge – a pressing scarcity of labor across all sectors. One potential solution to mitigate this labor scarcity is the integration of robotic technology into various aspects of the workforce. However, the nation’s limited production of robotic technology serves to intensify this existing labor shortfall, exacerbating the complexities encountered by businesses striving for automation and innovation.

Notably, Australian businesses encounter significant challenges while seeking reliable robot and automation experts. They often find themselves tied to a single local expert with inadequate support. When Thomas P. Culver, the visionary founder of The Robot Factory, recognized this pressing void in Australia’s technological sphere, he resolved to address this gap. As a result, The Robot Factory was born in 2021. “The Robot Factory was started so that Australian businesses could find an innovative and reliable automation company that can sell, service, and support robots in any part of Australia,” affirms Thomas.

The Robot Factory began its journey with a strategic focus on selling cleaning and security robots. These solutions addressed two critical pain points of most Australian enterprises. Thomas’ in-depth knowledge of cleaning and security robots allowed The Robot Factory to deliver innovative, market-leading solutions. In a world where bottom lines often dictate strategy, The Robot Factory took a different approach. Rather than fixating on profits, the company honed in on customer satisfaction as the ultimate growth strategy.

Embracing a Tri-Fold Strategy for Robotic Excellence

The Robot Factory aspires to establish itself as the premier service robot company in Australia. To realize this objective, the company is committed to executing three core strategies. Primarily, the company is dedicated to sourcing the finest service robots on the planet. These robots stand out with their verified optimal performance and demonstrable Return on Investment (ROI). The company ensures that every robot comes fortified with robust warranties and a promise of dependable service.

The second facet of this strategy involves an unwavering commitment to ensuring continuous service and support for the robots throughout their lifecycle. Through a collaborative affiliation with Armaguard/ITS, the company now boasts an unmatched capability to deliver bank-grade service, support, and repairs across major and minor cities. The specialized electro-mechanical field service team, already entrusted with servicing bank ATMs, is adeptly trained to extend its expertise to the entire spectrum of the company’s robotic offerings. This comprehensive service network is unparalleled in its scope and competence.

The third pivotal element essential to achieving this vision is the engagement of clients. The company recognizes that its clients are a cornerstone of its success. Thus, customers can expect the absolute best human service possible while taking their robotic journey with the company. Thomas aptly sums up, “From your first inquiry through the sale and service of your first robot you will be delighted with our friendly and genuine quality service.  We will not sleep unless we put a smile on your face!”

A Trusted Partner for High-Performance Service Robots

The Robot Factory takes immense pride in its unwavering commitment to continuous enhancement, an ethos deeply ingrained within its core. This dedication revolves around a resolute objective: to source and present the most advanced robotic technologies to the discerning markets of Australia and New Zealand. To achieve this, the company is proactive in its pursuit of international collaborations. It actively engages in international ventures to explore and engage with potential robotic firms, while actively participating in major international trade expos. In fact, this upcoming August, Thomas will attend the prestigious World Conference in Beijing, China, further underscoring the company’s global engagement.

At present, The Robot Factory boasts a diverse portfolio, showcasing robotic innovations from various corners of the globe, including esteemed manufacturers in Switzerland, Portugal, China, and the United States. What truly sets the company apart and contributes to its competitive advantage is its steadfast adherence to the strategy of exclusively offering the finest robotic technologies available. As emphasized by Thomas, “Our competitive edge I firmly believe is sticking to our strategy of selling the best robots in the world and putting our customers first with “bank grade” support.”

Nurturing Talent, Fostering Growth

Thomas holds a unique perspective when it comes to organizational culture. Rather than viewing culture as something to be manufactured, he believes in cultivating an authentic, naturally evolving, and deeply ingrained cultural environment. Thus, at The Robot Factory, he focuses on hiring exceptional individuals and encourages them to engage wholeheartedly in every facet of the business, allowing them to take ownership. This approach fosters innovation, nurtures teamwork, and fuels their unwavering commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction. Additionally, the company places a strong emphasis on promoting from within and empowering internal talents. In essence, The Robot Factory’s culture thrives on the principles of empowerment, collaboration, and continuous growth.

Shaping a Promising Path for Australian Innovation

Looking ahead, The Robot Factory stands on the verge of finalizing four pivotal strategic partnerships, poised to significantly expand and enrich its product portfolio. The company intends to foster organic growth while also engaging in joint venture discussions with an international corporation that aligns with its vision for Australia. This juncture marks a promising phase for The Robot Factory, brimming with prospects for growth and collaboration.

It’s no secret that a productive cleaning team is a key to the success of any cleaning operation. After all, the more productive your team is, the more work they can get done in a given period of time.

So, how can you ensure that your cleaning team is as productive as possible? Well, there are many ways to do this! Here are just some of the best practices you can follow to ensure your cleaning time’s productivity is boosted to the max:

1. Define What Needs to Be Done

The first step to increasing your team’s productivity is to make sure that they know exactly what needs to be done. This means creating a detailed cleaning schedule that outlines all of the tasks that need to be completed each day.

By taking the time to map out what needs to be done, you’ll ensure that your team knows what they need to do and when they need to do it. This will help to eliminate any confusion and keep everyone on the same page.

2. Set Realistic Goals

It’s important to set realistic goals for your team in order to keep them motivated and on track. If you set goals that are impossible to reach, your team will quickly become discouraged.

Instead, sit down with your team and come up with a realistic plan for what can be accomplished in a given day, week, or month. Once you have a plan in place, be sure to communicate it to your team so that everyone is on the same page.

3. Prioritise Tasks

Not all tasks are created equal. Some tasks are more important than others and should be given priority.

Sit down with your team and discuss which tasks are the most important and need to be completed first. By prioritising tasks, you’ll ensure that your team is focusing on the most important tasks and getting them done in a timely manner.

4. Make Use of Technology

There are a variety of cleaning-related technologies available that can help to increase your team’s productivity. For example, there are now apps that can track and manage cleaning schedules and tasks. There are even robots today that can aid your team’s cleaning effort, making their job faster and easier.

By taking advantage of these kinds of technologies, you’ll be able to streamline your team’s workflow and make their jobs easier. This, in turn, will lead to increased productivity.

5. Provide Adequate Training

As a business owner, you want to make sure that your team is properly trained on the products and equipment they’ll be using for cleaning purposes. There are a few different ways that you can go about training your team. One way is to have someone on your team who is already familiar with the products and equipment give a demonstration to the rest of the team. Another way is to send your team to a training course offered by the manufacturer of the products or equipment.

By ensuring that they know how to use the products and equipment properly, you can help them work better and faster and also prevent any accidents or injuries from happening.

Conclusion

If you own a business, you need to make sure that you keep it clean. As such, it is vital to have the tips we’ve shared above to ensure your cleaning team does their best. But of course, you can also consider hiring cleaning professionals for the job. Either way, a clean and tidy business is a must-have if you ever dream of achieving success!

The Robot Factory offers the best service robots in Australia, covering cleaning robots, security robots, and so much more. If you are looking for autonomous cleaning equipment, check out what we offer.