Controls
The control method provided for in the design of the machine.
Note that for models with simple manual control (when the user holds the handle and thus directs the machine), as well as for robots controlled exclusively from their own built-in panel, this parameter is not indicated; it is given only for units with more advanced options. For traditional harvesting machines, this may be
the steering ; in turn, robots (see “Type”) can be controlled from
a remote control and/or
smartphone. Here's a more detailed description of these options:
- Steering. Control using a steering wheel or steering wheel. Used in heavy productive self-propelled equipment (see below), which would be difficult to deploy manually. Many of these models even have an operator seat and are essentially mini harvesting tractors of sorts. However, there are also units for which the operator must walk while working - they are somewhat less convenient to use, but are more compact, lightweight and inexpensive.
- Remote control. Control using a separate remote control supplied in the kit. More often, communication is carried out via an infrared channel - similar to remote controls for televisions, air conditioners, etc.; however, other options are possible. In general, the functionality of such control is quite limited compared to another option used in robots - control from a smartpho
...ne (see below): from the remote control, as a rule, only a selection of preset operating programs, simple settings, and in some models - also direct motion control. On the other hand, such control is relatively inexpensive, and for most cases it is more than enough.
- From a smartphone. Control the robot from a smartphone or other similar gadget (for example, a tablet) with a special application installed on it; Communication is usually carried out via Bluetooth. This method turns out to be much more convenient and visual than using a remote control: in particular, the application can implement many additional functions that are not available with a traditional remote control (cartography with manual routing on a map of the room, scheduled cleaning, etc.). On the other hand, supporting such control affects the overall cost of the unit; and in the absence of a suitable control gadget, the robot becomes completely useless. Therefore, this option is rarely found in its pure form - much more often the ability to work with a smartphone is provided simultaneously with the remote control (see below for more details).
— Remote control / from a smartphone. Devices that support both control methods described above. This option is as versatile as possible: when working with basic functions, you can get by with the remote control, and for advanced settings, use an external gadget. At the same time, the remote control is initially included in the delivery package, thanks to which the unit can be used without a smartphone - for example, if a suitable smartphone is not on the household, or if you do not want to bother with installing and configuring the application.Battery capacity
The capacity of the battery installed in the cleaning machine with the appropriate power supply.
In theory, a higher capacity allows you to work longer on a single charge, but in practice everything is not so simple. Firstly, the autonomy is also affected by the energy consumption of the machine, and it is determined mainly by the engine power (see above). Secondly, the actual amount of energy stored in the battery depends not only on the capacity in ampere hours, but also on the operating voltage in volts. Therefore, only batteries with the same voltage can be compared with each other in terms of capacity in Ah (or convert ampere-hours to watt-hours using a special formula and compare the results). And it is best to evaluate the autonomy of the unit by the directly stated operating time (see below).
Weight
The total weight of the cleaning machine. Usually, weight is indicated with empty tanks for detergent, waste, fuel, etc. At the same time, additional equipment, such as side brushes, may or may not be taken into account. Such equipment has a very small weight compared to the machines themselves. And, when installed/removed, does not seriously affect the mass of the entire machine.
