Roomba
The Robot Vacuum Cleaner
2002 - First Generation
The first generation of Roomba has a very basic core cleaning system consisting of three buttons – Small (S), Medium (M) and Large (L). The button is used to dictate the general size of the room for which Roomba would clean. As such, this series was not yet considered a “smart” vacuum cleaner.
2004 - 400 Series
In 2004, Series 400 got introduced. The second generation of Roomba, also known as the Discovery, added software that allows it to calculate the room size instead of relying on the S, M and L buttons. This series of Roombas also seeks to improve user experiences by providing users with more control and dictation over the cleaner. Users can schedule cleaning duties via the on-board scheduler, designate the cleaning mode (e.g. whether you want it to clean longer or clean more thoroughly) as well as being able to control the movement of Roomba via remote control.
2007 - 500 Series
In 2007, the company announced their third generation of Roomba (Series 500). This series of Roomba focuses on improving the durability of Roomba. Forward-looking infrared sensors are installed to improve its ability to detect obstacles and when such obstacles are detected, it would reduce its speed before it collides on it.
Evolution
Roomba was introduced in 2002 and every Roomba model is a disc-shaped vacuum cleaner with diameter of 34cm and a height of less than 9cm. As of 2014, there are six different series, from the first generation model, to the 400 series, 500 series up till the latest 800 series.
2007 Onwards - 600/700/800 Series
Subsequently, Series 600, 700 and 800 Series Roombas were released. However, they were generally similar to the 500 Series. These newer series improvised on its cleaning capabilities like the inclusion of the AeroVac Series 2 Bin, which uses a powerful vacuum to pull debris and hair off the cleaning brushes into the bin.