ScottyBot: Enhancing Campus Mobility

The "ScottyBot" project, part of the Rapid Prototyping of Computer Systems capstone at Carnegie Mellon University, focuses on solving mobility challenges on campus through the development of an LLM-enhanced public robot. ScottyBot is designed to guide users to various campus locations, providing both navigational assistance and physical support by carrying items. By integrating advanced language processing capabilities, ScottyBot can interpret and respond to voice commands, ensuring a user-friendly experience for students, faculty, and visitors.

ScottyBot's advanced features are powered by a central computing unit that enables real-time operation and adaptation to dynamic environments. It is equipped with wheels, sensors, cameras, and a robust aluminum chassis, allowing it to navigate the campus efficiently. The robot's ability to interact socially and adjust to changing surroundings enhances campus accessibility, particularly for individuals with specific mobility needs. By offering reliable guidance and support, ScottyBot aims to improve daily navigation and interaction experiences on campus.

One of the key components of ScottyBot is its user interaction system, which includes a screen and a microphone for input, as well as a speaker for output. This system allows users to communicate with ScottyBot naturally, using voice commands to request assistance or directions. The GPT large language model processes these inputs, enabling the robot to understand and respond accurately. Additionally, ScottyBot features an RFID scanner for secure login, ensuring that interactions are personalized and secure.

The system architecture of ScottyBot is designed for seamless integration and efficiency. It details interconnected components for perception, control, human interaction, and web application integration. This modular design allows for easy updates and enhancements, ensuring that ScottyBot can continue to evolve and meet the needs of the campus community. The project utilized a wide range of technologies, showcasing the team's expertise and dedication to creating a versatile and effective solution.

Spanning 16 weeks and involving 60 students, the development of ScottyBot was a collaborative effort that combined research, design, and engineering. The project not only aimed to address immediate mobility challenges but also to set a precedent for future innovations in campus accessibility. As ScottyBot continues to be refined and improved, it represents a significant step forward in the application of LLM-enhanced robotics to create more inclusive and accessible environments. Through this project, Carnegie Mellon University demonstrates its commitment to leveraging advanced technology to improve the quality of life for its community members.