Utilising robotics in contract cleaning 

IN AN era where technology is rapidly reshaping industries, the cleaning services sector is no exception. The integration of robotics into cleaning routines is not just a trend but a transformative shift that is enhancing efficiency, consistency, and cost-effectiveness. This article explores how cleaning services companies are leveraging robotic technology to redefine cleanliness standards and operational efficiency.

Innovation, technology and sustainability are Principle Cleaning Services’ (Principle) three core values. Technology, in particular, has played a major role within the organisation and introducing robotics in more recent times has meant adapting new technologies to assist its workforce in their daily tasks.

Cleaning robots have evolved significantly from simple automated vacuum cleaners to sophisticated machines capable of handling a variety of tasks in diverse environments. Companies providing cleaning services are increasingly adopting these robots to perform tasks that were traditionally done manually.

Principle is committed to investing in a future where humans and robots work collaboratively together; termed frequently as ‘Co-Botics’. The company uses a range of different cobotic machinery such as motorised sweepers, scrubber dryers and pressure washers that improve productivity and save water and energy consumption; and it works closely with its supply partners to suggest improvements based on real time usage, which really helps the technology to improve. Understanding where each of these aspects works best and where they add value is where Principle can make a real difference as a service partner.

We knew that introducing Co-Botics into day-to-day routines would help our teams productivity but also understood that it might be met with some scepticism, especially when it came to how they would be integrated. We have invested heavily in training and support and saw that the more familiar our teams became with the equipment, the more comfortable they were in using it. In fact, many can now see how it’s making their work more effective and frees up time, allowing them to focus on other tasks that a machine cannot do.  

Robotic machinery

Last year, Principle announced they will be the exclusive UK provider of Ozmo - a window cleaning robot - through their partnership with Skyline Robotics. With this method, window cleaning can cover the same amount of windows three times faster than humans. Manually operated, it has been designed to be part of a collaborative approach where both work together to create smarter, faster and safer environments.

It's important that any type of innovation adds value. And, whilst robotics are a useful tool, they aren’t suitable in every environment. Scale is needed to create opportunity, so it tends to be larger sites that will see greater benefit.

Robotic machinery has developed significantly in the past few years. Battery technology is much better, performance has improved and the costs involved provides the opportunity to use robotics as part of a hybrid cleaning solution that creates value for clients. They can also save time, water and money in the right environment. Where they can be utilised several times a day is where a real benefit can be achieved. Modern cleaning robots come equipped with advanced sensors, AI, and machine learning algorithms. These capabilities allow them to navigate complex environments, avoid obstacles, and adapt to different cleaning scenarios. 

At one client site, Co-Botics were installed last year. Their introduction has led to less energy consumption; less water usage and increased productivity; creating more time for the team to focus on specific tasks.

Data provided by the Co-Botics supports Principle’s strategy of needs-based cleaning. A user app details the work carried out, the resources that have been used such as battery power, water consumption and the space cleaned, for example. This data can then be imported/exported into other platforms such as Principle’s PCS Hub - a secure, cloud-based portal - and then utilised to inform cleaning teams’ resources, maximising their efficiency.

Traditionally, external estates were cleaned using diesel-powered machinery but new battery-powered equipment - such as motorised sweepers, scrubber dryers and pressure washers - offers the same level of cleaning, which is delivered quietly and sustainably. 

The future of the cleaning industry is set to be influenced by robotic technology. As AI and machine learning continue to advance, robots will become even more autonomous, efficient, and capable of handling complex tasks. These machines offer solutions to long-standing challenges such as labour shortages, consistency in cleaning standards, and operational efficiency.

There is concern that robots could replace humans in the future but at Principle we understand the need for both. Robots need human interaction so we believe the future will be working collaboratively; and the personal relationships that our teams develop with our clients is something that technology can never compete with.

A long-standing partnership powering innovation 

Principle has established itself as a pioneer in the cleaning industry and has a near decade-long partnership with ICE. This commitment to innovation extends back to 2018, when Principle became one of the first adopters of the Robo 3, a groundbreaking autonomous cleaning machine launched in the UK market by ICE. This early adoption continued when Principle became one of ICE’s first customers when they launched their ICE Co-Botics cleaning equipment range in 2020.

ICE Co-Botics stand out by offering the industry's most versatile range of autonomous cleaning machines. These machines seamlessly integrate into existing cleaning operations across diverse environments, from commercial buildings and transportation hubs to warehouses, healthcare facilities, retail stores, and hospitality venues.

These intelligent machines boast several key features:

• Safety and efficiency: Easy to map, control, and navigate, they prioritise safety and deliver consistent cleaning performance
• Unmatched intelligence: They autonomously clean entire areas without constant human supervision, freeing up valuable staff time
• Environmental friendliness: Water recycling capabilities and a long runtime (up to 5 hours) minimise resource consumption
• Proof of clean: Integrated telemetry and cloud-based reporting provide detailed cleaning data after each use, ensuring transparency and accountability.

The extensive range of machines within the ICE Co-Botics portfolio allows Principle to tailor cleaning solutions to specific environments and floor types. This ensures optimal cleaning performance for every client, regardless of their unique needs.

ICE Co-Botics are designed to empower cleaning teams, not eliminate them. These machines take over repetitive tasks, allowing human resources to focus on higher-level cleaning activities like detailed cleaning and hygiene control. This not only improves overall cleaning efficiency but also elevates the role of cleaning staff within the industry. The ultimate goal is to create a cleaner, safer environment for everyone – staff, clients, and visitors alike.

ICE Co-Botics machines offer a user-friendly mobile app for comprehensive control and monitoring. Users can utilise the app to:

• Remotely control the machine, including starting, pausing, and stopping cleaning tasks;
• Schedule cleaning start times to optimise cleaning schedules and resource allocation;
• Access detailed reports on cleaned areas, water usage, battery life, and consumable levels, allowing for proactive maintenance and resource management;
• Utilise the self-docking feature, which enables the machine to automatically return to its charging station upon completion of a cleaning task.

By incorporating autonomous cleaning equipment, Principle demonstrates a strong commitment to ESG principles. Here's how:

• Reduced water usage: ICE Co-Botics machines utilise water recycling technology, leading to a significant 70% reduction in water consumption compared to traditional cleaning methods
• Lower carbon footprint: Autonomous operation minimises the risk of operator damage to the machines, reducing the need for engineer call-outs and associated vehicle emissions. Additionally, remote management capabilities further reduce on-site visits, lowering the overall carbon footprint
• Improved working conditions: By automating repetitive tasks, Principle fosters a more engaging work environment for its cleaning staff. This allows them to focus on more specialised cleaning tasks that require human expertise and judgement.

Both Principle and ICE share a core belief: autonomous cleaning technology should be a collaborative tool that enhances cleaning practices, not a replacement for human labour. This long-standing partnership fosters continuous innovation, ensuring that Principle remains at the forefront of cleaning technology. This translates to the highest cleaning standards for Principle's clients without compromising on value or customer experience.

ICE enjoys working with the Principle teams as they continue to challenge both the status quo and innovation. They will always explore the art of possibility without allowing it to compromise either customer experience or value. 

The long-standing partnership between Principle and ICE is a fantastic example of how forward-thinking cleaning companies can leverage technology to achieve superior cleaning results while promoting environmental and social responsibility. This collaboration paves the way for a future of cleaner, safer, and more efficient cleaning practices, ultimately benefiting not only the cleaning industry but also the communities it serves.

Matt Kuwertz is commercial director at Principle Cleaning Services

For more information visit www.principleclean.com