What is a virtual wall and how to do it for a do-it-yourself robot vacuum cleaner
A virtual wall for a robot vacuum cleaner is understood as a device that creates an infrared beam. The device cannot exceed its limits. Thanks to this, it is possible to successfully zone the space. If you place a virtual wall in the door area, the vacuum cleaner will not be able to leave the room and will only clean inside. Ladders, curtains and pet food bowls can be similarly protected.
Description and purpose
Manufacturers of such devices equip their products with various functions. This helps to improve the quality of their work. A virtual wall is used to improve performance.
This term is understood as a special device that helps the vacuum cleaner navigate the room. The device allows you to divide the room into zones. Thanks to its use, the robot will not be able to leave the room being cleaned. The virtual wall is used when it is necessary to restrict the access of the device to fragile objects. It can be a floor vase or a dish with animal food. In such situations, adaptation will be very relevant.
Principle of operation
The mechanism of action of the device is based on the use of infrared radiation and sensors capable of capturing it. When such a ray is detected on the path, the robot perceives it as an obstacle.This allows him to plan his route so as not to cross the line. Applying the cleaning area limitation method requires some human involvement. The owner must arrange these walls himself. In this case, competent placement is of no small importance, which allows to cover the maximum area for cleaning.
It is important to make sure that there are no fragile objects or curtains in the affected area. For more comfortable zoning, you should use several virtual walls at once.
The infrared beam helps the vacuum avoid touching fragile or dangerous objects. The owner only needs to install virtual walls. However, they can be turned on and off manually or automatically when the robot is started. The specific mode depends on the model. Almost all robot vacuums come with similar navigation aids.
Necessary or not
The use of such a device has many advantages:
- cleaning automation;
- no risk of damage to fragile objects;
- curtain device fence;
- zoning of the cleaning area in studios or large premises.
Such devices are definitely recommended for use in homes with pets. Thanks to the correct arrangement of the equipment, it is possible to avoid overturning the bowl with the food. Special cameras can be an alternative to the virtual wall. Based on the information received from them, the device draws up a cleaning map. However, virtual walls are still considered preferable. This option is less likely to crash. In addition, the use of cameras requires the compilation of a new map when changing the position of large objects.
The virtual wall can only compete with a special beacon, which is a more advanced device. Moreover, its action is based on the same principles. The only difference is that the beacon robot vacuum has 2 modes. The first is the same as the virtual wall, the second is the lighthouse itself. It creates a connection between the device and the vacuum cleaner. This is due to radio waves.
When the job is done, the vacuum finds the charging station and returns to it. This effect is achieved through infrared radiation.
How the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum Magnetic Strip Works
The Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaner can be supplemented with a special magnetic tape. This device helps you to mark off the room and keep certain areas clean. Using magnetic strips, it will be possible to protect areas where the robot should not fall.
The main features and benefits of the product are:
- Small thickness. The width of the tape is 2.5 centimeters, while its thickness does not exceed 2 millimeters. This avoids the problems of moving people and pets. The floor can be easily swept and washed.
- An effective invisible barrier for the vacuum cleaner. The smart device picks up the band signal from a distance of 3.5 meters. This gives him the opportunity to plan his actions in advance.
- Virtual barriers of different lengths. The product is sold in rolls. However, due to the special marking, the tape can be divided into multiple segments of 30 centimeters. This guarantees economical use of the material.
- Exposure of the device to magnetic radiation. The sensor of the vacuum cleaner is able to easily pick up the signal from the band on the belt.
- No network connection required.The strip can work without power or batteries.
- Ease of fixing. To fix the tape, it is enough to measure the length of the obstacle and cut the required fragment. It is good to clean the floor in the zoning area. Then gradually peel off the protective film and attach the magnetic sticker to the floor.
How to do it yourself
To create a virtual wall yourself, you need to understand the mechanism of its operation. Zoning of space is carried out using infrared radiation. Therefore, in order to use the device, you need to correctly distribute the ray flows.
The virtual wall is an effective device that allows you to divide the room into zones. Thanks to the use of this device, it is possible to protect fragile objects from the robot vacuum cleaner or to direct it to cleaning only in a specific room.