From KISS (Keep It Sanitary Stupid) Robotics!

 

What is FreakK?

Freak is a brand new robot from KISS robotics. It uses an Ultra Violet germicidal light to sterilize your kitchen or bathroom counter.

To see exactly where and how the parts are placed on the robot,
CLICK the image below.

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Click the image below to view preliminary sketch of freak.

 

When compared to the Japanese TV Mascot Domokun, the resemblance is uncanny.  [12]   This was just a subconscious occurrence in the mind of the artist; it was not purposeful. A few Important changes are that this representation shows a wall plug to recharge, the robot is round, and very small. After much thought, we decided to make FreakK Square, larger to accommodate a controller board and the light itself, and use internal rechargeable batteries. Notice that in the image the "f" in freak stands for furry, the "r" for retractable, and the first "k" for kitchen. We decided to change these to "Fully" "rechargeable" and "kounter". The FreakK is meant for any counter top, so "kitchen" did not fit. Because fur would keep moisture in and not be sanitary, the word "furry" was replaced. Also, when we took off the retractable cord, the r had to be swapped for a new word.

How Much?

Here is an itemized price list:

The approximately $25 profit will go to pay back debt incurred during the prototype process.  The price, like the cost of most products, will go down over time.

Who needs a FreakK?

Any one and everyone! Whether you want to protect yourself and family against pathogenic microorganisms found in food and on pets, have a weakened immune system, are unable to thoroughly clean surfaces with other means, or just want an extra precaution, FreakK is for you.  Freak can also be used in preschools and daycare centers to keep germs away from children.

What did these Microorganisms ever do to me?

One simple answer: they make you sick. Among those that can be destroyed with the level of UV light produced by freak are Escherichia coli (found in raw beef), various types of Salmonelia, Hepatitis, Influenza (the Flu), and different types of mold. [9] . In the United states alone, 61 people die from E. coli every year. [10] These are dangerous to have lying around on your kitchen or bathroom counter. How would like to eat food prepared on a surface that was not as clean as possible? FreakK's UV light is the solution to all your surface disinfecting needs.

Why do I need to clean twice?

FreakK is not intended to replace other types of cleaning. It is only meant to be used as a fool-proof germicide, and to pick up where other cleaners leave off. The ultra violet light emitted by the robot kills all the microscopic germs left behind by that Windex or Orange Clean.

Additionally, Windex and Orange Clean will no longer be needed. All you have to do is clear the surface to be disinfected of any particle debris (burnt noodles or dried spaghetti sauce) and then run the robot. The chemicals in most household cleaners are dangerous if ingested, some even scar from contact or produce fumes that cause irritation to the eyes and lungs. These harmful chemicals are usually put in cleaners to kill microorganisms. With freak on you counter, they are no longer necessary!

Cleaning with light?

FreakK has a powerful Ultra Violet (UV) Light bulb on the front of it. This light will destroy bacteria, mold spores, and even a viruses. Ultra Violet light has been used as a germicide in various applications for years. It's been used in water purifiers, air cleaners, and food sterilization.

Isn't Ultra Violet bad for you?

The light is dangerous for people and animals, as it is a cause of skin cancer and eye damage. This is why FreakK has precautions to protect the user. First, there is UV shielding (clear plastic) around the edge of the robot. This will keep the light from leaking out from the bottom edges. One each of the four corners there are bump sensors. These are positioned facing down, so that when the robot is picked up the buttons are not pressed. The programming tells the robot to turn off the light immediately. This will also prevent FreakK from running off the edge of the counter, as the wheels will still be on the counter and it can turn around and avoid the edge.

UV Light can also be considered harmful since it creates ozone (O₃). Prolonged exposure to ozone can cause permanent lung damage and harm plant life. [11] However, this is only in cases where the UV has a wavelength of less than 200 nanometers.

Wouldn't buying a hand-held light be cheaper than a robot?

An Ultra Violet light can cost anywhere from 15 to 30 dollars when bought from a store. Since we can buy the bulbs without any sort of holder in bulk, we can get them for a fraction of that price. The approximately $50 difference may seem like a lot to pay just to not have to hold a light over your counter, but there is more to it than that. UV is harmful to unprotected humans or animals for extended periods of time. Cleaning a surface is not as easy as flashing the light. The unwanted germs must be under direct light for 2-3 minutes before it is 99.9% likely to be dead. Uv protective clothing and goggles are clumsy, inconvenient and cost money. There is also the possibility that while the person is cleaning some one else or their pet will walk in the room and look at the light without protection. So, as you can see, it would take longer, cost more, and be overall inconvenient to have to use the light yourself. The price of the robot is only paid once, and you can clean again and again, without any fuss.

What if the light goes out?

Ultra Violet light is also known by many as 'black light'. Black light reflective ink can be found in gel in pens and party supplies (neon glowing paint). On the inside of the FreakK's casing is a dot of ultra violet sensitive ink. This glows brightly when exposed to UV. This will serve as an inexpensive, yet reliable detector. The user can simple check to see if the dot is glowing, and they know that they do not need to replace the bulb yet. When the dot becomes very dim, it's time to get a new bulb.

What's in the Future for FreakK?

Customizable faceplates are only one addition envisioned for FreakK.  There will be all kinds of neat designs to match your decor, such as faux marble and wood grain.  Perhaps one will even be designed to look like Domokun.  

Another, more plausible, idea is a large sized FreakK for using on the floor.  It would be perfect for hardwood floors, linoleum, tile, and practically any smooth surface.  It could also sweep and/or vacuum, which would make it a "Roomba with a glow."  The floor-sized FreakK would be great for picking up and sterilizing pet hair and "gifts" from your un-house trained puppy or kitten.  Since little children are known to put everything imaginable into their mouths (especially what they find on the floor), having freak disinfect their play area would be one important precaution.  Everyone who could benefit from the original FreakK would benefit even more from the enhanced and expanded model.