Window Cleaning Robot

What it does

Our robot safely cleans high-rise windows using vacuum suction, rotating pads, and a remote-control system — eliminating the need for risky manual labour while improving efficiency and accessibility for building maintenance.

Your inspiration

We decided to solve this problem after realising the risks faced by workers cleaning high-rise windows manually. The idea came from observing how dangerous and time-consuming the task is, especially on tall buildings. Inspired by existing robotic cleaners and lightweight designs like gaming mice, we aimed to create a safer, more efficient, and user-friendly solution using suction, remote control, and modular cleaning systems.

How it works

This project introduces a window cleaning robot designed for high-rise glass surfaces, aiming to improve safety and efficiency. The robot uses a vacuum suction system with an impeller fan to adhere to windows, and two rotating suction pads for movement. It sprays water through a hose and wipes using a built-in cleaning pad. Controlled via RC and Arduino Nano, it is powered by a lightweight Li-Po battery. The body, made from PLA and ABS, features open structural holes inspired by ultra-light mice to reduce weight. Curved and angled surfaces improve airflow and stability at high altitudes. While effective, it cannot cross window frames, lacks sideways movement, and has no low-battery alert — areas targeted for future improvement.

Design process

Our design process began with identifying the core problem: the dangers and inefficiency of manual high-rise window cleaning. We brainstormed several concepts and decided on a suction-based robot controlled remotely, offering safety and ease of use. Early sketches focused on overall shape, movement, and how to achieve stable adhesion. From there, we created our first CAD design in SolidWorks, experimenting with form and layout. We 3D printed an initial prototype using PLA for the main body and ABS for the base. This version helped us evaluate size, weight, and suction placement. The suction mechanism was tested using a plastic impeller and vacuum fan. While it adhered well, airflow and sealing needed improvement. Next, we focused on movement. We designed a dual-rotating suction pad system, each taking turns to stick and release, mimicking a “walking” motion. We used Arduino Nano with RC components for control, and tested Li-Po batteries for lightweight power. Ansys simulations were run to optimise air flow in the impeller. Through testing, we refined the robot's shape — adding aerodynamic curves, lightening the structure with mouse-inspired holes, and improving sealing. We also added a hose for water spray and a cleaning pad system.

How it is different

Our design is unique due to its dual rotating suction pads that allow the robot to “walk” across vertical glass surfaces — an approach that combines stability with efficient movement. Unlike most commercial window-cleaning robots that use magnetic or continuous suction systems, our robot alternates suction to move without slipping. It is also designed with lightweight materials and structural holes inspired by ultra-light gaming mice, reducing weight without sacrificing strength. The aerodynamic shape improves wind resistance during high-rise operation, and the use of a remote-controlled Arduino Nano system allows for flexible user control. This combination of safety, movement innovation, and lightweight engineering sets our design apart.

Future plans

Our next steps include enhancing the robot's mobility by enabling sideways movement and the ability to cross window frames. We also plan to integrate edge detection sensors and a battery level alert system. Future development aims to improve automation, reduce reliance on external water supply, and refine the suction system for better efficiency. Ultimately, we hope to create a fully autonomous, safe, and market-ready cleaning robot for high-rise buildings.

Awards

Currently, our invention has not been nominated for or won any awards. However, we are actively improving the design and plan to enter upcoming innovation and engineering competitions to showcase its potential.