Robot vacuums that rely on optical sensors are unable to clean in the dark or dimly-lit rooms, they clean better during the day or with bright lights on. Visual navigation is very efficient, but it has one major drawback. Some premium robot vacuums from other brands also have this feature, like the Ecovac Deebot 711, and Samsung Jetbots. iRobot’s Roomba 900 series and the premium Roomba S9+ all feature the VSLAM navigation technology. VSLAM is also an essential feature in robot vacuums that are capable of simultaneous vacuuming and mapping, the physical sensors and optical lens ensures that it accurately identifies objects in its way while also navigating more efficiently for a faster clean. The VSLAM navigation algorithm uses a digital camera featuring an optical lens to take photos of walls, doorways, ceiling, furniture positions and various obstacles around the home. The navigation system of these Roomba models are referred to as VSLAM (Visual Simultaneous Location and Mapping). High-end Roomba models combine the basic array of collision sensors with optical navigation technology. However, there is newer and more advanced room mapping that enable newer Roomba models to navigate better, clean faster and generally perform much better than the older models. Only use on worsted wool like Simonis.Obstacle sensors are still a very important part of a Roomba’s navigation system since our homes are full of obstacles stopping these little machines from moving around freely. I then vacuum every 4-6 sessions or so.īTW: The X1 is horrible on standard cloth- it will pull up little bits of cloth. I then do the felt on the rails and under all the rails.Īfter every playing session, I use the Simonis X1 paying special attention to any chalky areas. Just keep moving the row closer to you until your last sweep to the right is along the long rail directly in front of you. So, I am always vacuuming in one direction. Then move back to the left side and brush/vacuum to the right.

I start at the left along the opposite long rail and go straight to the middle.

I stand along a long rail and do half the table at a time - left then right. I don't think I am damaging my table by vacuuming it the way I do.I use a stationary brush attachment and gently wipe it over the table. The cloth is still looking good after 3 years. I have not used a standard pool brush since I moved and had the table re-felted.

Roomba pool table