Beginning back in September, I have been leading a team of 3 other mechanical engineers in our senior capstone project. We are developing, modeling, programming, manufacturing, and theming a desk size social robot. This robot will have the capability to interact with guests and hold real-time conversations using a custom large language model being developed by a separate group of computer engineering students. The robot has 3 distinct DOF within it's head and arms and will have the capability to track and face where the user is located. Additionally, the robot will have the capability to express and animate emotions based on the conversation. Our sponsor, Dr. Espinoza-Wade will use this robot to further his research into how social robots can be utilized in different settings. I developed one of the mechanical mechanisms that consists of a 4-bar linkage system driven by a servo motor, internally nodding the robots head. I am currently in charge of all of the motion and sensing controls for the robot and organizing the group so we may achieve our deadlines. This project is a year long project and will be completed in the beginning of June. Further details will be uploaded soon.
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