Hello Automation_Man!

It's great to see your interest in integrating advanced vacuum technology into your robotics projects. While the Roborock Qrevo and similar smart vacuums have sophisticated sensors and software, accessing and utilizing their systems for custom robotics projects can be challenging due to proprietary software and hardware restrictions.

However, here are a few approaches you might consider:

1. Reverse Engineering: Some enthusiasts have successfully reverse-engineered the communication protocols of robotic vacuums. This involves capturing and analyzing the data exchanged between the vacuum and its app or base station. Tools like Wireshark can be helpful for this purpose.

2. Open-Source Projects: Look for open-source projects or communities focused on hacking robotic vacuums. These communities often share insights, tools, and code that can help you interface with the vacuum's sensors and controls.

3. Using LIDAR and Sensors: If you're interested in the LIDAR and sensors, you might consider purchasing standalone LIDAR units like the RP LIDAR product line, which can be integrated into your projects using ARC. This way, you can leverage similar technology without needing to hack into a proprietary system.

4. Custom Firmware: Some robotic vacuums have custom firmware available, which can provide more control over the device. This is more common with older models, so it's worth checking if there's any community support for your specific model.

Feel free to ask if you have more questions or need further assistance!

In my experience, the iRobot Roomba stands out as the best platform for DIY robotic projects. You can often find used Roombas on marketplaces for as little as $1030, usually with a bad battery. Thankfully, replacing the battery is an easy and affordable fix..

Roombasparticularly models based on the iRobot Create 1(400 series )and 2 (500-600 series)actively encourage creative DIY projects, providing an open and flexible platform for hobbyists and tinkerers.

What makes the Roomba platform stand out is the native support provided by ARC Synthiam. This integration allows for easy access to features like motor control and sensors, so you can focus more on your project and less on trying to reverse-engineer proprietary systems.

Personally just pick up a 650 myself, and was super easy to get started. Highly recommend to search this forum for IRobot or Roomba.

Thanks PJ_Dtechy will look into it. I am trying to leave the vacuum intact and build a bigger robot over the top of it. Within its programming need to see what they are using for variables so I can manipulate them.

That sounds like an exciting project! Using a vacuum like the iRobot Roomba as a base for a larger robot can be a great way to leverage its existing navigation and sensor systems. Here are some steps and tips to help you get started:

1. Understand the Roomba's Capabilities:

• Sensors: Roombas come with various sensors, including cliff sensors, bump sensors, and sometimes even cameras or LIDAR in newer models.
• Movement: They have built-in motor control for wheels, which you can use to move your larger robot.

2. Accessing Roomba's Software:

• Open Interface (OI): iRobot provides an Open Interface for some models, which allows you to send commands and receive data from the Roomba. This can be accessed via a serial connection.
• ARC Integration: Since you're using ARC, you can utilize the iRobot Roomba Movement Panel skill to control the Roomba and read sensor data. This skill supports bi-directional communication, allowing you to both send commands and receive sensor data.

3. Manipulating Variables:

• Global Variables: In ARC, you can use global variables to store and manipulate data. Use getVar() and setVar() functions to access and modify these variables.
• Sensor Data: The iRobot Roomba Movement Panel skill can provide sensor data as global variables, which you can use in your scripts to make decisions.

4. Building Over the Roomba:

• Structure: Ensure that the structure you build over the Roomba does not interfere with its sensors or movement.
• Power Supply: Consider how you will power additional components. You might need an external power source if the Roomba's battery cannot support the extra load.

5. Programming:

• Control Commands: Use the ControlCommand() function in ARC to send commands to the Roomba and other robot skills.
• Event-Based Programming: Utilize ARC's event-based programming model to trigger actions based on sensor data or other events.

6. Testing and Iteration:

• Test Incrementally: Start with basic movement and sensor reading, then gradually add more complex behaviors.
• Iterate: Based on your tests, refine your design and programming to improve performance.

If you need more specific guidance on accessing or manipulating certain variables or features, feel free to ask! You can also explore the Synthiam ARC documentation for more detailed information on using ARC with your Roomba.

Hey PJ you can find used Roombas at Kijiji.com for under 100 dollars with dead battery not $1000.00 LOL! I bought brand new Create 2 for $250.00 at Irobot web site. Where do you get your ridiculous price info?

@Mopar The Create 2 is what I was looking for, big thanks. With this one they are actually expecting and encouraging you to tap into their software and program it. It's in Python so it's just another language to add to the list. ARC probably has a converter from a different language which I'll try first but if not Athena is a big help in learning it. Actually if needed I can go from other languages, post it to Athena and she can convert for me...boom. ARC is so cool!  

Yeah, in ARC it has the most easy way to program the Create 2  I have used for about 4 years, so many great things you can do and add more robot body on top of it,Base wheels are very powerful!

Be careful which version you get. The newer versions don’t work because IRobot locked the programming down to their own system and it won’t work with ARC or anything else. They don’t publish any open APIs for the newer ones.

I would just look on marketplace or Kijiji for a used Roomba like something in the 500 or 600 series range. Every roomba up until a certain point has a hacking port.

id read the manual for the iRobot Roomba robot skills to see what versions are supported. It’s a wide range.

Remember, just because some other product says it uses Python doesn’t mean it works with arc. Python is a language, that’s it. It’s like saying you bought a microwave in English, doesn’t mean it can clean your dishes.

@athena, give us details about what iRobot roomba models are compatible with the iRobot roomba Movement Panel robot skill.

@AutomationMan, if you buy a roomba used, which dj recommends, it’ll most likely need a new battery. We find they usually get sold cheap because the batteries stop holding charge. Replacement aftermarket batteries on Amazon are a popular affordable option.

This is all very good information to know before hand and will doublecheck before I buy

Great to hear that you're finding the information helpful! When considering a used iRobot Roomba for your project, here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Compatible Models: The iRobot Roomba Movement Panel robot skill is compatible with the 500 and 600 series robots, as well as the iRobot Create. These models have the necessary Serial Command Interface (SCI) for integration with ARC.

2. Battery Replacement: As mentioned, used Roombas often have worn-out batteries. You can find affordable replacement batteries on platforms like Amazon, which can significantly extend the life of your Roomba.

3. Connection Type: Ensure you have the right connection setup. The iRobot Roomba Movement Panel supports connections via USB adapter or a microcontroller acting as an EZB (like an Arduino). This allows for bi-directional communication, enabling you to read sensor data.

4. Baud Rate: Different models use different baud rates. For example, the Roomba 500 series typically uses a baud rate of 115200. Make sure to configure this correctly in the ARC settings.

5. Sensor Data: If you want to read sensor data, ensure your connection supports it. This requires a bi-directional connection, such as a PC COM port or HW UART.

6. NMS Compatibility: The iRobot Roomba Movement Panel is compatible with the Navigation Messaging System (NMS), which can be useful for mapping and navigation tasks.

If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!