And instead of a drag on the bottom line, Roomba has subsidized the development of what Angle hopes is the next big step for iRobot: health care.

FORBES: Invasion Of The Machines: iRobot Hunts Bombs, Cleans Floors, Now Wants To Heal You

Maybe they would like to be first in line for a low-cost loan, or at least to secure a spot ahead of subsidized Canadian competitors.

FORBES: A Warm Davos Welcome For Gov. Paterson - Not Any More!