iRobot yesterday unveiled two new home robots. iRobot Looj – Gutter Cleaning Robot and iRobot ConnectR – Virtual Visiting Robot, expand the range of home robots of iRobot. Both the robots are made to assist people in their household work.
iRobot Looj Gutter Cleaning Robot is designed for simplifying the difficult and dangerous job of gutter cleaning. This new robot can clean a stretch of gutter from one location, reducing the number of times a ladder must be repositioned and climbed during gutter cleaning. The 2.25-inch high Looj drives easily under gutter and sweeps out dirt, leaves and other debris that can cause costly water damage, overspills and ice dams.
The Looj includes a detachable handle that doubles as a wireless remote control. Thus provides full control of the robot while cleaning. iRobot Looj will be available from Q4 of 2007 at the starting price of $100 (approx Rs. 3,970).
The ConnectR is a new kind of communications system designed for today’s busy families. And it concentrates on greater connection and involvement with kids, grandchildren, friends and even with pets. This robot links easily to a home wireless network and enables VOIP-quality video. Therefore two way audio communications with a remote person can be achieved.
The ConnectR includes top-mounted, full tilt-and-zoom video camera, speaker, microphone and headlight to enable users to see, hear and interact with people in the home. The ConnectR is very simple to operate via included ConnectR software, enabling remote users to “call†and drive the ConnectR around the home using a computer keyboard, mouse or joystick.
The ConnectR has a charging base located in the home. When its battery runs low, the unit automatically returns to the home base to charge.
“I’m here to demystify the notion that robots in the home are a promise of tomorrow. Today iRobot is delivering to customers practical home robots that are affordable, effective and easy-to-use,†said Angle. “The future is now – and everyone can and should have a robot in their home today.â€
The ConnectR will be available in late 2007 from iRobot as part of the ConnectR Pilot Program. Under this program selected participants will get an opportunity to home test and purchase the ConnectR at $199 (approx Rs. 7,910). Otherwise the ConnectR robot is expected to be in the market by early 2008 at the price of $500 (approx Rs. 19,870).
