A mobile robot generally including a first suction module, a second
suction module and a hinge assembly pivotably connecting the suction
modules together. Each of the suction modules includes a support frame
defining a vacuum chamber and a vacuum unit supported on the support
frame and communicating with the vacuum chamber. The vacuum unit includes
a rotating impeller and an exhaust cowling surrounding the impeller. The
impeller has an axis of rotation and is adapted to draw air from the
vacuum chamber into the impeller in a direction generally parallel to the
impeller axis of rotation and to discharge the drawn air in a direction
substantially perpendicular to the impeller axis of rotation. The exhaust
cowling is adapted to redirect the discharged air, whereby a thrusting
force is applied to the support frame in a direction opposite of the
direction of the drawn air from the vacuum chamber.