Evolution Robotics MINT Automatic Floor Cleaner
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4/23/2010
The Mint Automatic Floor Cleaner, first announced at CES in January, adapts to different home
environments using a range of sensors and employs advanced navigation technologies to systematically
clean floors. It is guided by a NorthStar navigation system that allows the unit to map where it is
cleaning so it doesn’t miss a spot or cover the same area over and over.
Instead of being a vacuum or brush sweeper, Mint automatically dusts and wet mops hard surface
floors using popular cleaning cloths, such as Swiffer brand Dry and Wet Cloths and other similar
products.
Using dry cloths, Mint picks up dust, dirt and hair sitting on the surface, while a special mopping
motion using wet cloths allows the unit to dissolve and wipe up deeper dirt and grime.
Mint’s rechargeable battery lasts over three hours when dry cleaning, and up to two hours for the more
power intensive wet cleaning. Its creators say Mint will dry clean an average sized kitchen in around 25
minutes, while wet cleaning will take a bit longer at around 40 minutes.
To help it fit in tight spaces and hard to reach areas, Mint measures about three inches high, while its
cleaning pad is less than ten inches wide, allowing it to maneuver between chair legs and other small
spaces.
Evolution Robotics is currently taking pre-orders for the Mint. It is due to ship in the third quarter of
this year, and sell s for $249. The device will also be available through retail outlet