Science, Technology, and Society

Innovation Project

Project Title: Cleanova: Sweep smart, Not hard

Student Name(s): Henton, Rose Marie P.

Magnaye, Ella Bianca O.

Rodil, Rachelle Ann R.

Reyes, Princess Diane R.

Instructor: Mr. Allan Dimaculangan

Submission Date: June 14 2025

I. Abstract (150–250 words)

Brief summary of the innovation project, highlighting the problem, proposed solution,
methodology, and potential impact.
II. Introduction
A vacuum cleaner, also known as a hoover, is a machine that uses suction to
remove dust, dirt, and small particles from floors and other surfaces. It is usually powered
by electricity and has become a basic cleaning tool in almost every home. While traditional
vacuum cleaners are helpful and effective, they still need to be operated by hand. This
takes time, energy, and effort, something many people today find hard to spare, especially
with busy schedules at work, school, or home.

As technology continues to improve, smart devices are becoming more common in

households. One of these innovations is the robot vacuum cleaner. Unlike regular vacuum
cleaners, robot vacuums can clean floors on their own without needing much human help.
These devices are made to save people time and make cleaning easier. However, many
robot vacuums available in stores are expensive, and some do not work well on all types of
floors or in tight spaces. Others may lack strong suction or smart features that users
expect. This makes it hard for many people to enjoy the benefits of automated cleaning.

To solve this problem, we created our own do-it-yourself (DIY) robot vacuum cleaner
called Cleanova. Our goal with Cleanova is to make cleaning smarter, easier, and more
affordable for everyone. By designing and building a robot vacuum ourselves, we aimed to
create a tool that meets the needs of modern households without the high price or
complicated features. Cleanova is a simple but smart device that helps people clean their
homes with less effort.

This innovation is important because many people struggle to keep their homes
clean while managing their daily responsibilities. A reliable and low-cost robot vacuum like
Cleanova can help reduce that burden. It also encourages creativity and problem-solving by
showing how technology can be used in simple ways to improve everyday life.

ROBLEM STATEMENT

Even though robot vacuum cleaners exist, many are too expensive or don’t work well
in all homes. So, how can we make a low-cost, easy-to-use robot vacuum that cleans well
and helps people save time?

OBJECTIVES

This paper aims to:

 Explain how we made Cleanova, our DIY robot vacuum.

 Show the problems with current robot vacuums and how Cleanova solves them.
 Share how this project makes smart cleaning more available to more people.
 Show how Cleanova helps people clean their homes with less effort and more ease.

With Cleanova, we hope to show that anyone can clean smart, not hard.
III. Review of Related Literature
This review examines studies on smart home technology adoption, consumer
preferences for automated cleaning, and ergonomic and user-experience considerations in
designing these appliances. Smart Home Technology Adoption and Impact Consumers are
increasingly embracing smart home devices that enhance convenience and efficiency.
Research shows that devices offering clear benefits like time and effort reduction are more
readily adopted, with perceived ease of use and direct impact on daily chores being key
drivers (Smith & Jones, 2022).

This indicates strong market readiness for innovative products offering “smart” and
“effortless” cleaning experiences. Ergonomics and User Experience in Smart Appliance
Design concept of “not hard” cleaning is closely tied to ergonomic and user experience
design principles. Intuitive interfaces and minimal physical interaction are crucial for user
satisfaction and long-term adoption of smart appliances (Johnson & Davis, 2019).

Products perceived as complex or requiring significant learning often face user

resistance. For cleaning devices, this means designing products that are easy to set up,
operate, and maintain to genuinely reduce the “hard” work associated with traditional
methods. Features that reduce physical strain, such as self-cleaning and autonomous
movement, are highly valued by users, underscoring the importance of minimizing user
burden for product success (Parker & Green, 2023).
IV. Methodology
In an era where automation and smart technologies play a pivotal role in enhancing
everyday convenience, our project aims to contribute to this evolution by developing an
autonomous robot vacuum cleaner. This innovation is not only a response to the increasing
demand for efficient home cleaning systems but also a reflection of how basic electronics
and accessible materials can be integrated to produce practical solutions.

Vacuum cleaners have long been essential household appliances due to their ability
to remove dust, dirt, and allergens from various surfaces efficiently. However, traditional
vacuum cleaners often require manual operation and can be time-consuming.

Our robot vacuum cleaner addresses this limitation by combining mobility,

automation, and suction power into a compact, self-operating unit.

The core functionality of the device is enabled by an Arduino Uno microcontroller,

which coordinates the robot’s movement and cleaning operations. The system is equipped
with ultrasonic sensors to detect and avoid obstacles, allowing it to navigate through rooms
autonomously. The vacuuming mechanism is powered by a ducted fan attached to a mini
DC motor, generating enough suction to capture small debris, dust, and paper particles.

One of the most innovative aspects of this project lies in its construction using
recycled and accessible materials, such as cardboard and plastic mesh netting, alongside
low-cost electronic components. This not only reduces the overall expense of production
but also promotes sustainable and eco-friendly design practices.

Furthermore, our robot is programmable, which means its cleaning logic can be
refined and adapted based on specific user needs or room layouts.

By using a programmable platform like Arduino, we enable further enhancements,

such as path optimization or timed cleaning routines, making the device both intelligent and
adaptable.

In essence, this robot vacuum cleaner exemplifies how engineering principles,

creativity, and sustainability can converge to address real-world problems. It serves not
only as a practical tool for daily living but also as an educational model that demonstrates
how robotics and automation can be applied at a fundamental level.
MATERIALS AND TOOLS USED

To bring this innovation to life, the following components and materials were utilized:

Electronic Components:

 Arduino Uno Board – Central control unit for managing sensors and motor functions.
 L298N DC Motor Driver – Controls the direction and speed of the two DC motors.
 Ultrasonic Sensor HC-SR04 – Detects obstacles to prevent collisions.
 Mini DC Motor with Impeller (for suction fan) – Drives the vacuum mechanism.
 Ducted Fan – Provides suction power to collect debris.
 Mini Switch – Used to manually turn the device on or off.
 Battery (18650) with Battery Holder – Powers the system and components.
 Jumper Wires and Cables – Connect electronic components.

Mechanical Components:

 Two DC Motors with Wheels – Enable the robot to move and steer.
 Plastic Mesh Netting – Acts as a debris filter in the suction chamber.
 Cardboard – Used to construct the main chassis and body.
 Small Nails or Glue – For mounting and securing components in place.

Tools Required:

 Soldering Iron – For securing wire connections.

 Scissors/Cutter – For shaping cardboard and mesh.
 Screwdrivers and Tape – For assembling mechanical parts.

PROCEDURE AND WORKFLOW

Step 1: Programming the Arduino Board

 Before any physical construction began, the Arduino Uno was programmed using
the Arduino IDE.
 The program included functions to operate the motor driver, respond to obstacle
detection via the ultrasonic sensor, and control the suction motor.
 Logic was written to move the robot forward, stop when an obstacle is detected, and
turn to avoid it, all while keeping the suction motor on during movement.

Step 2: Constructing the Chassis

 Using cardboard, a base and protective shell were cut and shaped to form the
robot’s body.
  Openings were made to mount the ultrasonic sensor at the front and allow airflow
from the ducted fan.
 The plastic mesh netting was placed inside the vacuum chamber to filter particles.

Step 3: Mounting the Components

 The two DC motors with wheels were securely attached to the bottom of the chassis.
 The mini motor with the ducted fan was positioned at the bottom center for optimal
suction.
 The Arduino, motor driver, battery holder, and mini switch were mounted securely on
the body.

Step 4: Wiring and Connections

 All motors and sensors were connected to the Arduino and L298N driver using
jumper wires.
 The power supply was wired through the mini switch for control.
 Ground and voltage lines were carefully connected and insulated.

Step 5: Testing the Code and Components

 Once assembly was complete, the robot was powered on, and its movement and
obstacle detection were tested.
 Adjustments were made to the sensor alignment and motor speeds to ensure
smooth and reliable operation.

TESTING

1. Mobility Test: The robot was placed in an open area with a few obstacles to observe
its ability to detect and avoid collisions using the ultrasonic sensor.
2. Suction Test: Small debris ( paper pieces, dust, rice grains) was scattered on the
floor to test the effectiveness of the ducted fan and filter mechanism.
3. Battery Life Assessment: The operational time of the robot on a single charge of
the 18650 battery was monitored to evaluate energy efficiency.
4. Durability Check: The stability of the cardboard chassis and motor mounts was
observed during repeated usage.

STRATEGIES

Obstacle Handling: Improve navigation by adding additional IR sensors or a second

ultrasonic sensor for better detection range.
Suction Optimization: Replace or upgrade the ducted fan for improved airflow and stronger
vacuum power.

Power Efficiency: Incorporate power-saving features in the code, such as sleep modes or
timer-based operation.

Structural Upgrade: Reinforce or replace the cardboard frame with lightweight plastic or
wood for better durability.

TIMELINE

DATE ACTIVITY

June 8, 2025 Purchased and gathered all necessary tools and materials.

June 9, 2025 Programmed the Arduino Uno and tested the basic code.

June 10, 2025 Began construction of the chassis and base.

June 11, 2025 Mounted wheels, motors, and basic components.

June 12, 2025 Installed ducted fan and wiring for the vacuum system.

June 13, 2025 Completed wiring, code adjustments, and system tests.

June 14, 2025 Final testing and improvements to navigation and suction.

V. Results
Description of output, data or feedback collected, and visual evidence
(screenshots/diagrams).

VI. Discussion and Analysis

Challenges and solutions, evaluation, comparison with existing solutions, and lessons
learned.
VII. Conclusion and Recommendations
Summary of outcomes, potential applications, and future recommendations.
VIII. References
Smith, J., & Jones, A. (2022). Trends in smart home technology adoption: A systematic
review. Journal of Technological Innovation, 15(1), 30–45.

Johnson, M., & Davis, P. (2019). Designing for effortless interaction: Principles of user
experience in smart home technology. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies,
120, 45–58.

Parker, L., & Green, R. (2023). Reducing physical strain through autonomous cleaning: A
case study of the SmartMop 3000. Ergonomics in Design, 41(2), 78–90.
IX. Appendices (if needed)
Surveys, additional visuals, code, or budget breakdowns.