Sparko: Unleashing the Potential of Smart Robotics
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Date
2024
Authors
Abdallah Khayat
Salahaldin Shehada
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Abstract
This research paper demonstrates the implementation of Sparko showing its design and
development. Sparko is smart robot we created to perform several tasks. These tasks include
interactive communication. They also involve movement control. It is powered by using a
rechargeable 12V lithium battery. Which is regulated to 6V using voltage converter. It is also
connected to battery indicator to show the amount of battery left.
Sparko’s main body is built using plastic 3D printed components. It has nine servo motors. Two
for each leg. Two for each hand. And one for the head. These allow for flexible and precise
movements. Control of Sparko’s movements is conducted through WiFi using a Raspberry Pi Pico
W and a servo driver.
To enhance user interaction Sparko features LCD screen on its head. The screen displays various
facial expressions. Ultrasonic sensor is integrated. This enables obstacle detection. It also allows
avoidance capabilities. Additionally, Sparko possesses advanced speech features using two ESP32
modules. One module converts speech to text using Google Cloud API. The other sends text to
ChatGPT API and converts its response to speech. This allows the robot to respond verbally. These
modules are connected with microphone and speaker creating complete audio chat interaction
system. Infrared sensor is used to activate Sparko's listening mode. This enables it to receive
commands to process verbal queries from users, then it responds accordingly.
Testing results has shown Sparko's effective movement control. Reliable obstacle avoidance. The
speech-to-text and text-to-speech functionalities showed good level of accuracy with some
limitations such as having response with no more than 30 words due to esp32 memory capacity.
There is a small error percentage when it comes to recognizing words. This combination of
hardware and software makes Sparko valuable advancement in interactive robotics field. Offering
great value for future developments.