SLAM 360° system and navigation markers: how a room map is created
In the context of round-the-clock operation of commercial real estate facilities, cleaning solutions with autonomous navigation are becoming increasingly popular. Nighttime cleaning is particularly in demand when there are no visitors, but quality and accuracy requirements remain. In such situations, navigation without light comes to the fore, using SLAM 360° technology and navigation markers.
Modern robots for cleaning in the dark successfully cope with tasks that previously only humans could handle. In this article, we will take a detailed look at how a map of a room is created, how a robot navigates in a space without lighting, and why night cleaning has become safe and effective.
Modern robots for cleaning in the dark successfully cope with tasks that previously only humans could handle. In this article, we will take a detailed look at how a map of a room is created, how a robot navigates in a space without lighting, and why night cleaning has become safe and effective.
What is the SLAM 360° system: in simple terms
- How SLAM works
- SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) is a technology that allows a robot to create a map of its surroundings and determine its location within it in real time. The system “sees” the surrounding space using lidar, 3D cameras, and other sensors.
- When using SLAM 360°, the robot detects objects around its entire perimeter: not only in front, but also behind, to the sides, and even above it. This comprehensive orientation is especially important when cleaning at night or in low light conditions.
- Why SLAM is more effective than GPS and simple routes
- Works indoors: GPS is ineffective inside buildings, while SLAM creates a map on the spot.
- Responds to changes: if you move furniture, the robot will “notice” it and update its route.
- Independent of light: the technology focuses on physical contours rather than visual markers.
Navigation markers: how they help robots
What are navigation markers?
Navigation markers are visual or RFID elements placed on the floor or walls. They serve as landmarks for robots, especially in large or uniform spaces such as warehouses or offices with long corridors.
The marker helps to clarify coordinates or correct the course in case the robot gets a little “lost.”
Interaction with the SLAM system
Markers do not replace SLAM, but complement it. For example:
In dark corners, the marker helps to avoid duplicating the route.
In narrow areas, it allows the robot to understand exactly how to pass without getting stuck.
Thus, even a robot cleaning in the dark does not get lost and does not create unnecessary noise due to trial and error.
What are navigation markers?
Navigation markers are visual or RFID elements placed on the floor or walls. They serve as landmarks for robots, especially in large or uniform spaces such as warehouses or offices with long corridors.
The marker helps to clarify coordinates or correct the course in case the robot gets a little “lost.”
Interaction with the SLAM system
Markers do not replace SLAM, but complement it. For example:
In dark corners, the marker helps to avoid duplicating the route.
In narrow areas, it allows the robot to understand exactly how to pass without getting stuck.
Thus, even a robot cleaning in the dark does not get lost and does not create unnecessary noise due to trial and error.
- How a room map is created
- Creating a map is the first step after installing the robot on site. Depending on the Waybot model, the process is as follows:
- Stage 1. Initial tour The robot independently navigates the room with the SLAM 360° system activated:
- It scans walls, furniture, passageways, and obstacles.
- Creates a point cloud (3D model of the room).
- Identifies areas accessible for night cleaning.
- Stage 2. Zone marking Using the Waybot Control interface, the operator sets:
- Cleaning areas (wet, dry, combined).
- Restricted areas (server rooms, carpets, glass doors).
- Specifies areas with heavy soiling.
- Stage 3. Route programming
- Based on the marking results, a cleaning route is created:
- All obstacles and logistics features are taken into account.
- Movement trajectories are optimized.
- Regular scenarios are prescribed, for example, cleaning at night from 00:00 to 06:00.
- Navigation without light: how robots work in the dark
- A key advantage of the SLAM 360° system and Waybot robots is their ability to operate in zero light conditions. Below are the main mechanisms.
- Use of lidars
- A lidar (laser rangefinder) emits pulses that are reflected from objects, allowing the robot to “see” the space without light. Such sensors do not require illuminated objects and even work in smoke or dust.
- Support for navigation markers
- Markers applied with reflective paint are “read” by infrared sensors. They provide the robot with key coordinates and increase the accuracy of its movements.
- Real-time route correction
- If something has changed in the room (for example, boxes or wet flooring have appeared), the robot automatically adjusts its cleaning plan, avoiding obstacles and re-routing.
- Advantages of night cleaning with SLAM navigation
- Minimal disruption: when there are no employees or customers, the robot works as quickly as possible.
- Quiet mode: Waybot robots are virtually silent.
- Cleanliness in the morning: the floors are already sparkling when the first visitors arrive.
- Energy efficiency: you can use night-time electricity rates.
Where working in the dark is especially important
Transport hubs
Train stations, airports, and subway stations require regular cleaning at night. Thanks to navigation without light, the robot can do its job without human intervention.
Office buildings and business centers
Night cleaning does not interfere with the work of employees and allows you to maintain hygiene in corridors, elevators, reception areas, and restrooms.
Shopping centers
Cleaning after the shopping center closes allows you to maintain cleanliness in high-traffic areas without disturbing tenants and shoppers.
Case study: Waybot with SLAM implementation in an office complex
In one of St. Petersburg's business centers, Waybot was implemented for nighttime cleaning of corridors, restrooms, and the reception area. After scanning the building, the robot generated a map and began working in automatic mode. After a week, adjustments were made to the routes, and the level of cleanliness, according to employee surveys, increased by 35%.
Transport hubs
Train stations, airports, and subway stations require regular cleaning at night. Thanks to navigation without light, the robot can do its job without human intervention.
Office buildings and business centers
Night cleaning does not interfere with the work of employees and allows you to maintain hygiene in corridors, elevators, reception areas, and restrooms.
Shopping centers
Cleaning after the shopping center closes allows you to maintain cleanliness in high-traffic areas without disturbing tenants and shoppers.
Case study: Waybot with SLAM implementation in an office complex
In one of St. Petersburg's business centers, Waybot was implemented for nighttime cleaning of corridors, restrooms, and the reception area. After scanning the building, the robot generated a map and began working in automatic mode. After a week, adjustments were made to the routes, and the level of cleanliness, according to employee surveys, increased by 35%.
Conclusion: night cleaning is safe, effective, and cost-effective
SLAM 360° technology and navigation markers enable unprecedented accuracy in automatic cleaning in all conditions, even in complete darkness. A modern robot for cleaning in the dark copes with tasks without human intervention, does not get lost, does not get stuck, and provides consistent quality.
Night cleaning becomes a strategic business advantage: you save resources, ensure cleanliness before the start of the working day, and improve the customer experience. Thanks to intelligent cleaning planning, optimized routes, and the ability to work without light, Waybot robots fully meet the requirements of modern cleaning.
If you want to implement an advanced automation system in your facility, start with the right navigation. And SLAM 360° is exactly where you should start.
SLAM 360° technology and navigation markers enable unprecedented accuracy in automatic cleaning in all conditions, even in complete darkness. A modern robot for cleaning in the dark copes with tasks without human intervention, does not get lost, does not get stuck, and provides consistent quality.
Night cleaning becomes a strategic business advantage: you save resources, ensure cleanliness before the start of the working day, and improve the customer experience. Thanks to intelligent cleaning planning, optimized routes, and the ability to work without light, Waybot robots fully meet the requirements of modern cleaning.
If you want to implement an advanced automation system in your facility, start with the right navigation. And SLAM 360° is exactly where you should start.
