The world's first domestic robotic vacuum cleaner has gone on sale in the UK from today (16th May). With a price tag of around £1000 it might be a tad expensive, but it’s smart and small enough to leave out of the cupboard when neighbours call!

Makers Electrolux call it the Tribolite as it’s sexy shape and performance has some resemblance to a prehistoric creature, an extinct marine arthropod that crawled around on the seabed, feeding on small animals and plankton.

While you’re at work or out and about enjoying yourself, the award-winning Trilobite can be left merrily cleaning your home, all on its own. The makers say it’s the ultimate lifestyle accessory - not only does it free you up to do the things in life that you really love, but it’s also a style statement in its own right.

You don’t even have to worry about it knocking into your Conran coffee table, as it uses sound waves, similar to bat-like acoustic technology to detect obstacles in its path. It 'sees' obstacles such as furniture or plants, and works its way around them. When the job’s done, it’ll automatically return to its charging station to boost its juice, so it’ll be ready for action the next time you turn it on! And, if it runs out of power half way through the job, it even has the intelligence to recharge itself and resume cleaning where it left off!

Patrick Le Corre, managing director of Electrolux Floorcare UK, said:

"The Trilobite is the first intelligent appliance that has real relevance for the home today. It transforms domestic chores, especially when you consider that we spend on average two hours a day cleaning, including vacuum cleaning.”

"As it is completely independent, quick and efficient, the Trilobite clearly helps make life easier."

A survey commissioned by Electrolux found two-thirds of the 900 people questioned like the idea of a robotic vacuum cleaner and almost half would consider buying a Trilobite, despite the price.