{"id":4652,"date":"2016-03-29T05:14:58","date_gmt":"2016-03-29T05:14:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/?post_type=cpt_teardown&#038;p=4652"},"modified":"2020-10-22T13:39:58","modified_gmt":"2020-10-22T13:39:58","slug":"the-great-robotic-vacuum-showdown-part-2-neato-xv-21","status":"publish","type":"cpt_teardown","link":"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/teardowns\/the-great-robotic-vacuum-showdown-part-2-neato-xv-21","title":{"rendered":"The Great Robotic Vacuum Showdown Part 2: Neato XV-21"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe class=\"lazyload\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Fictiv Teardown | Neato Robotic Vacuum\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/gmZSvmpiZcg?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Welcome to part 2 of The Great Robotic Vacuum Showdown! If you didn\u2019t have a chance to check out\u00a0<a href=\"\/articles\/the-great-robotic-vacuum-showdown-part-1-roomba-650-mechanical-system\">Part 1 of this series where we took apart the Roomba<\/a>, go ahead and check that out first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Neato Robotics is a newcomer to the robotic vacuum business compared to iRobot; it only began shipping products in 2010. However, it quickly established itself as a worthy competitor: Roomba and Neato are now the two most recognizable brand names for robotic vacuums.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Neato is headquartered in Newark, California, whereas iRobot hails from Massachusetts. We didn\u2019t mean for this to turn into a East Coast vs. Best Coast competition, but it is what it is now!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We are tearing down the XV-21 model, one of Neato\u2019s best selling models. The XV-21\u2019s original MSRP was $429, a little bit more expensive than Roomba 650. However, it was launched way back in 2012, so you can find great discounts on this model today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mechanical System<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At first look, the Neato has almost a vintage air to it, thanks to its color scheme. I gotta say, anything on the light grey to beige spectrum doesn\u2019t do electronics any favors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4653 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Flipped on its back, this Neato bot shows us its many screws. There is only one brush, vs. the two counter-rotating ones on the Roomba. Fans of Neato say the square nose helps the Neato clean corners much better than the Roomba. The brush is also longer because it\u2019s not stuck between the wheels, which allows it to cover more area per pass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The tires look very similar to the Roomba. Actually, the threads are exactly the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4654 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-1.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-1-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We found two battery packs after removing the small doors adjacent to the left and right wheels. Each 6-cell Ni-MH battery pack is 3200mAh. In contrast, the Roomba 650\u2019s battery pack only has 3000 mAh of capacity in one battery pack. However, a bigger battery doesn\u2019t always mean longer battery life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Neato-teardown-7515.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4655 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Neato-teardown-7515.jpg 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Neato-teardown-7515-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The wheel module is very similar to the one found on the Roomba, but Neato\u2019s wheel hubs use less plastic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4656 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-2.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-2-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a look at the Neato\u2019s wheel gearbox. The motor shaft is geared down three times, instead of four on the Roomba\u2019s wheel gearbox.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-3.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4657 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-3.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-3-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The magnetic encoder (tachometer) on the Neato and the Roomba look like siblings. The motors are about the same size, too. In the photo below, the Roomba\u2019s motor is on the left, and the Neato\u2019s is on the right.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-4.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4658 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-4.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-4-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>And here\u2019s the snap action switch under the wheel module. This is normally closed (pressed down), and when it becomes open, Neato knows its wheel has fallen off a cliff. Unlike the Roomba design, the switch and the extension spring are not part of the removable wheel module. This means removing the module can be challenging: if the switch goes out, there is no way for the user to replace it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-5.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4659 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-5.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-5-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As we mentioned before, the Neato uses only one brush, whereas the Roomba uses two counter-spinning brushes. The brush that\u2019s installed in the Neato when we got it is a neat hybrid design: it\u2019s both a beater brush and a bristle brush. Neato also comes with a second brush that\u2019s a pure beater brush.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s no \u201cdirt detection\u201d feature like the piezo on the Roomba. The motor that drives the brush can\u2019t be removed from the bottom just yet, which makes the brush module less replaceable than Roomba\u2019s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The fan is located in the body of the vacuum instead of the dust chamber like Roomba. It\u2019s much bigger than the fan found in Roomba\u2019s Aerovac bin\u2014as soon as you turn the Neato on you can hear the difference between it and the Roomba. The Neato sounds like a jet engine spinning up and gives the impression of high power and performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-6.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4660 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-6.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-6-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The advantage of having the fan out of the bin is that replacement bins will cost less. The disadvantage is that if the fan goes kaput, it\u2019s not so easy to replace. We\u2019ll also note that this fan looks like an off-the-shelf component.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-7.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4661 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-7.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-7-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-8.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4662 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-8.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-8-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that we\u2019re done with external components, let\u2019s see what\u2019s inside!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-9.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4663 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-9.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-9-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The first thing we noticed is that there are a lot of wires. By using board-edge connectors, Roomba was able to eliminate wire harnesses from the replaceable modules to the main PCBA. In contrast, Neato chose to use more traditional, connectorized wire harnesses. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-10.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4664 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-10.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-10-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>With all these wires, you have to do some routing. There are pairs of posts designed into the top cover for this purpose, but it seems like they were insufficient. That\u2019s nothing a little hot glue can\u2019t fix though!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-11.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4665 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-11.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-11-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a look at all the buttons that the user interacts with, located in the cover panel. The three little black buttons are unique in their edge notch arrangements, preventing assembly error. That\u2019s nice\u00a0<a href=\"\/articles\/4-essential-tools-for-successful-dfa\">DFA<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Around the bigger orange button, there\u2019s an arc-shaped light guide. It has aluminum foil on its backside to maximize total internal reflection, which can help with color mixing and minimizes losses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-12.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4666 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-12.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-12-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The front bumper is also attached to the cover panel\u2014This reduces the impact of collision on the main body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We get all the wires out of the way, so you can see clearly that the main PCBA is noticeably more compact than Roomba\u2019s. It also features more integrated circuits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-13-1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4669 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-13-1.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-13-1-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Neato-teardown-7533-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4670 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Neato-teardown-7533-1.jpg 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Neato-teardown-7533-1-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Navigation System<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to obstacle detection sensors, Roomba used many small IR sensors with limited range and resolution. Neato\u2019s approach is very different. We\u2019ll take a closer look at its precision sensors a bit later, but for now we\u2019ll just note that the only side facing IR sensor is found at the front corner of the robot and helps with wall following.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-14.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4671 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-14.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-14-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We had a really hard time trying to remove the lone IR sensor, because the screw can\u2019t be accessed top-down. It\u2019s nestled in an undercut\u2026 why? This is just horrible DFA! Seems like assembly is an afterthought here, sadly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-15.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4672 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-15.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-15-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Beside the wall-following IR sensor, there are also IR sensors on either side of the brush cage to detect cliffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-16.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4673 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-16.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-16-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>These are off-the-shelf IR sensors made by Sharp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-17.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4674 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-17.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-17-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Neato has 2 mechanical bumper sensors (keypad switches) as well. These are nowhere as beefy as Roomba\u2019s bumper sensors, but who says they have to be?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-18.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4675 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-18.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-18-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>You are probably wondering by now, how come Neato has so few navigation sensors? Well, last but not least, we look into the \u201cpatented laser-guided technology\u201d that scans and maps the room, allowing Neato to plan its path instead of dealing with one obstacle at a time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"433\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Neato-GIF2.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4676 lazyload\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>On the mapping module\u2019s bottom side, We can see the small DC motor that drives the motion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-19.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4677 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-19.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-19-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Removing the cover on the top side, we see a small pulley and a long belt. The output pulley is the entire laser module, and it\u2019s huge compared to the input pulley. That\u2019s some serious gear-down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-20.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4678 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-20.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-20-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s the laser emitter and receiver module.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-21.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4679 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-21.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-21-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The optical pieces seem like off-the-shelf components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-22.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4680 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-22.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-22-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>When electric power and signal need to be transferred from a stationary object to a spinning object, a slip ring is used. This is an off-the-shelf component. The round cylinder goes right through the hole seen in the laser assembly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-23.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4681 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-23.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-23-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It took a bit of prying to get the bearing off the base\u2014the bearing is held in by&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/articles\/how-to-design-snap-fit-components\">cantilever snaps<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-24.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4682 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-24.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-24-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Screws are put in behind the cantilever snaps to prevent the bearing from coming off. Tricky!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-25.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4683 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-25.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-25-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>And that\u2019s all for Part 2 of the Great Robotic Vacuum Showdown! Let\u2019s tally up the results:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1406\" height=\"820\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/56fad05ea360769e252c80f4_roombavsneato.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4684 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/56fad05ea360769e252c80f4_roombavsneato.png 1406w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/56fad05ea360769e252c80f4_roombavsneato-768x448.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1406px) 100vw, 1406px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>So we have a winner! The better engineered product is Roomba 650. However, it won just barely. iRobot had an 8-year head start, which definitely contributed to Roomba\u2019s well thought-out repairability features.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, we have to say Neato\u2019s room mapping technology is really cool and comes at a bargain price. iRobot finally came out with its own room-mapping technology in its latest model, but it will set you back nearly $900. Each robot really has its own unique appeal, and it is great seeing the battle of innovations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"950\" height=\"633\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-26.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4685 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-26.png 950w, https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pasted-image-0-26-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 950px) 100vw, 950px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p> <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Welcome to part 2 of The Great Robotic Vacuum Showdown! If you didn\u2019t have a chance to check out\u00a0Part 1 of this series where we took apart the Roomba, go ahead and check that out first. Neato Robotics is a newcomer to the robotic vacuum business compared to iRobot; it only began shipping products in [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":51,"featured_media":4718,"parent":0,"template":"","fictiv_role":[29],"fictiv_topic":[28],"fictiv_industry":[40],"coauthors":[76],"class_list":["post-4652","cpt_teardown","type-cpt_teardown","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","fictiv_topic-mechanical-design"],"aioseo_notices":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.2 (Yoast SEO v24.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>The Great Robotic Vacuum Showdown Part 2: Neato XV-21 - Fictiv<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Roomba and Neato are now the two most recognizable brand names for robotic vacuums. We tore down the Neato vacuum to see what was inside.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fictiv.com\/teardowns\/the-great-robotic-vacuum-showdown-part-2-neato-xv-21\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The Great Robotic Vacuum Showdown Part 2: Neato XV-21\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Roomba and Neato are now the two most recognizable brand names for robotic vacuums. 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