SoftBank Robotics Whiz — Specs & Review
Specifications
| Brand | SoftBank Robotics |
|---|---|
| Model | Whiz |
| Year | 2019 |
| Category | Social Service, Retail |
| Autonomy | fully-autonomous |
| Environment | indoor |
| Connectivity | WiFi, Cellular |
| Country of origin | JP |
Key features
- 500 m²/h cleaning capacity
- Up to 3 hours battery life
- 4.0L dust collection capacity
- LiDAR and 3D camera obstacle detection
- Sensor-equipped bumpers for impact detection
- Drop sensors and wheel lift detection for fall prevention
What is it?
SoftBank Robotics Whiz is a fully autonomous commercial carpet-cleaning robot designed for enterprise environments such as hotels, offices, airports, and convention centers. Launched in 2019, Whiz utilizes advanced AI technology to deliver efficient and consistent cleaning performance. (softbankrobotics.com)
Who is it for?
Whiz is tailored for businesses seeking to enhance their cleaning operations by reducing labor costs and improving cleanliness standards. Its autonomous capabilities make it suitable for large-scale facilities that require regular carpet maintenance without the need for manual intervention.
Key specs
- Dimensions: Approximately 470mm × 480mm × 661mm (width × length × height)
- Weight: Around 34kg (including battery)
- Cleaning capacity: Covers about 500m² per hour
- Battery life:
- Normal mode: Approximately 3.6 hours
- Power mode: Approximately 1.8 hours
- Dustbin capacity: 6.3L (paper bag)
- Battery type: Lithium-ion
- Charging time: Approximately 5 hours
- Safety features:
- Obstacle detection (LiDAR sensor, 3D camera)
- Impact detection (sensor-equipped bumper)
- Anomaly detection and fall prevention (step sensor, wheel lift detection sensor, emergency brake function)
How it compares
Whiz competes with other autonomous cleaning robots in the market, such as those offered by companies like Taikisha, JR Automation, and Sintoko. (owler.com) While specific specifications of these competitors are not detailed in the available sources, Whiz's comprehensive safety features and substantial battery life position it as a competitive option for large-scale commercial cleaning needs.
Limitations
- Indoor use only: Whiz is designed exclusively for indoor environments and is not suitable for outdoor cleaning tasks.
- Surface compatibility: Primarily optimized for carpeted areas; performance on hard flooring may vary.
- Charging infrastructure: Requires dedicated charging stations, which may necessitate additional investment in facility infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the cleaning capacity of the Whiz robot?
The Whiz robot can clean approximately 500 square meters per hour, making it suitable for large indoor spaces. ([softbank.jp](https://www.softbank.jp/corp/news/press/sbkk/2018/20181119_02/?utm_source=openai))
How long does the Whiz robot operate on a single charge?
In normal mode, the Whiz robot operates for up to 3 hours on a single charge, allowing for extended cleaning sessions. ([softbank.jp](https://www.softbank.jp/corp/news/press/sbkk/2018/20181119_02/?utm_source=openai))
What safety features are included in the Whiz robot?
The Whiz robot is equipped with LiDAR sensors and 3D cameras for obstacle detection, sensor-equipped bumpers for impact detection, and drop sensors with wheel lift detection to prevent falls. ([softbank.jp](https://www.softbank.jp/corp/news/press/sbkk/2018/20181119_02/?utm_source=openai))
How many Whiz robots have been sold worldwide?
As of March 2020, over 6,000 units of the Whiz robot have been sold globally, indicating strong market adoption. ([softbankrobotics.com](https://www.softbankrobotics.com/news/20200406a/?utm_source=openai))
What is the pricing model for the Whiz robot?
Pricing for the Whiz robot varies by region and service model; for example, in Japan, a rental plan was offered at 25,000 yen per month over 60 months. ([softbank.jp](https://www.softbank.jp/corp/news/press/sbkk/2018/20181119_02/?utm_source=openai))