A class of facade cleaning robot, Mantis is made of three identical modules and a caterpillar-inspired linear actuator bar system. With the linear actuators, each of the impeller modules can be lifted off the facade, allowing Mantis to cross over obstacles on vertical facades with ease. Each module is also equipped with a passive rotary system which allows it to rotate independently from others, enabling Mantis to traverse the facade. Mantis is also equipped with onboard sensors enabling the creation of real-time maps of the operating environment, health monitoring, and optimal cleaning paths.

Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) is the fourth autonomous university to be established in Singapore. SUTD's mission is to advance knowledge and nurture technically grounded leaders and innovators to serve societal needs. At SUTD, design as a discipline cuts across the curriculum and provides a novel framework for the research and educational programmes.