Cleanfix deploys Sonair’s ADAR 3D ultrasonic sensor in next-generation autonomous cleaning robot

Autonomous cleaning robots operate in dynamic environments such as schools, gyms, hospitals, warehouses, and commercial facilities, where people move unpredictably and objects can appear suddenly inthe robot’s path.

To effectively address these challenges, Cleanfix has introduced a new generation of its industrial cleaning robot RA660Navi XL with the 3D ultrasonic sensor ADAR from Sonair. ADAR operates reliably where camera-and laser-based sensing systems (LiDAR) reach physical limits and is now replacing multi-sensor configurations used in earlier versions of Cleanfix robots.

“Our customers don’t evaluate algorithms, they evaluate results,” says Roger Kaiser, Head of Robotics at Cleanfix. “What matters in practice is stable operation, minimal interruptions, and a robot system that works reliably for hours. With ADAR, we can deliver that level of dependable performance, which is essential for autonomous cleaning to scale in everyday operation.”

“For Sonair, this deployment represents an important early step toward broader adoption of 3D ultrasound in robotics,” explains Knut Sandven, CEO of Sonair.“Service robots are among the fastest-growing categories in automation, and these robots are increasingly operating in human environments rather than in fenced-off industrial cells. In such settings, the robust environmental perception ADAR provides is essential for reliable and predictable operation.”

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Replacing 14 linear sensors with ADAR

With ADAR, Cleanfix introduces a new level of capability by providing its new cleaning robot with true 3D spatial awareness through ultrasonic sensing. By consolidating the functions of up to 14 individual linear sensors used in earlier generations into a single sensor, the RA660 Navi XL features a clean, uncluttered front design. The outcome is a high-quality, professional appearance that visually reflects the robot’s technical sophistication.

The integrated sensor provides a wide 180 x 180-degree field of view and generates spatial perception data that supports navigation and motion behavior in real time. This allows the robot to detect small or partially obscured obstacles close to the ground - such as equipment, bags, pallet edges, or tools- that frequently appear in real-world environments.

Privacy is built into the RA660 Navi XL by design. Because it neither captures nor stores vision-based image data, it can be deployed in privacy-sensitive environments.

Maximum uptime with low-maintenance sensing and fewer unneccessary stops

By deliberately avoiding optical sensor systems with sensitive lenses, the RA660 Navi XL eliminates the need for regular lens cleaning. This low-maintenance sensing approach significantly reduces downtime and service costs, ensuring the robot remains available for maximum cleaning time.

The robust environmental perception of the ADAR sensor drastically reduces ‘false positives’ - misinterpretations often caused by dust particles in the air. This allows the RA660 Navi XL to maintain smooth, stable operation without unnecessary interruptions, directly increasing productivity and area coverage.

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The RA660 Navi XL is also perfectly suited for night-time operation as it operates completely independently of ambient light. This ensures reliable performance in total darkness, a critical requirement for autonomous cleaning in commercial and public buildings when staff are not present.

Sonair is safety-certifying to PLd ISO13849 / SIL IEC 61508. This is an industry-first for 3D ultrasonic sensing, with the company now moving fast to meet rising, global demand.

About Sonair

Sonair develops advanced sensing technology to make autonomous machines safer,smarter, and more affordable. Based in Oslo, Norway, the company’s patentedADAR sensor is the world’s first safe 3D ultrasonic sensor for robots, enablingaccurate spatial awareness in environments where people and machines worktogether.

Learn more: sonair.com

Media contact: Tor Odland, Sonair.