ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION The next generation
We talk to Alastair Scott, Sales Director at Robert Scott, and Peter Jones, Robotics Expert at Robert Scott Robotics, to find out more about the two new AI-powered robots which have been added to their steadily expanding cobotics range.
Automation, artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are evolving at a rapid pace, and with this the cleaning sector seeks smarter solutions to economic challenges. It is clear robotics will play a key role in the future of commercial cleaning.
The next generation of MT1
Robotic Sweepers Alastair Scott said: “For some time, Robert Scott has been championing the MT1, the world’s first AI-powered sweeper robot for large-scale environments, such as warehouses, airports and shopping centres. Following its success, we have launched the new MT1 Max Vac and MT1 Vac.
“Expanding our offering in automated cleaning technologies marks a significant milestone in Robert Scott’s 100 plus year history.”
Built on the successful MT1 platform with enhanced capabilities and designed for indoor and semi-outdoor environments, including warehouses, loading bays, forklift spaces and car parks, the MT1 Max is equipped with advanced 3D LiDAR, dual chips for greater computing power, and improved obstacle management – adapting seamlessly to complex conditions.
Meanwhile, the MT1 Vac is the world’s first AI-powered vacuuming robot for large-scale environments. It features a Visual Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping (VSLAM) system which enhances navigation in dynamic environments, while an ultra-wide scanning field allows efficient coverage of large areas.
Alastair continued: “The MT1 Max features a 3D lidar radar on the top of the robot, which improves its obstacle avoidance and location detection. This means it can also operate outside – although the built-in rain sensor will send it back indoors on wet days.”
Is there anything a robot can’t do?
Peter Jones commented: “As automation becomes more visible across everyday operations, we’re often asked: ‘Is there anything a robot can’t do?’ In the world of commercial cleaning, robotics has moved rapidly from early-stage novelty to practical, high-performing solution.
“From smarter navigation to AI-driven efficiency, today’s cleaning robots are transforming how spaces are maintained, while still working best alongside the people who keep standards high.”
The human dimension
Despite their growing sophistication, robots are not designed to replace cleaners, and the industry increasingly recognises that the goal is not to eliminate the human element, but to support it.
38 | TOMORROW'S CLEANING
Robots are most effective at repetitive floor cleaning tasks in open spaces. Challenges can still arise in highly cluttered environments or where detailed cleaning is required, such as stairs or vertical surfaces.
Peter added: “Robotic cleaning technology has developed rapidly in recent years and continues to evolve. The most effective deployments are those where robots work alongside cleaning teams, taking care of repetitive floor cleaning so staff can focus on tasks which require attention to detail and human judgement.”
How smart will tomorrow’s
robots become? Alastair concluded: “Robots will become increasingly intelligent and connected. Future machines may incorporate more advanced AI capabilities, allowing them to better recognise surfaces, adapt cleaning methods automatically and integrate with smart building systems.
“However, the future of cleaning will almost certainly remain collaborative, with automation supporting skilled cleaning professionals to deliver higher standards of hygiene and efficiency.
“Through Robert Scott Robotics, we provide a range of autonomous floor cleaning solutions designed for commercial environments. These combine intelligent navigation, automated charging and refilling, and remote management tools to deliver consistent cleaning performance while reducing the manual workload on cleaning teams.
“Our focus is on delivering practical robotic solutions that integrate easily into existing cleaning operations, helping organisations improve productivity while maintaining high hygiene standards.”
www.robertscottrobotics.co.uk x.com/TomoCleaning
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