TurboPi Brings a Leap in Robotics with Multimodal AI for Smarter Machines

In the past, the capabilities of smart robots were often limited by the pre-programmed code written by developers. The new TurboPi, however, takes a giant leap forward. Powered by a robust AI voice interaction module and the computing power of Raspberry Pi 5, it now integrates advanced multimodal AI models like ChatGPT. This means that TurboPi is no longer bound by a set of locally stored instructions. Instead, it can connect to an almost limitless knowledge base and decision-making hub in the cloud.

Now, TurboPi understands spoken commands, eliminating the need for memorized fixed instructions. You can simply ask, “Hiwonder, what’s the weather like today?” With the help of its visual AI model, TurboPi can identify and understand objects, colors, and layouts within its surroundings—not just detect a red block. It even has the ability to perform logical reasoning and decision-making. By leveraging the semantic understanding capabilities of large language models, TurboPi can break down complex tasks and autonomously plan the next steps.

Let’s take a closer look at how TurboPi’s intelligent upgrade works through a real-world example:
Imagine asking TurboPi: 'Hiwonder, patrol my desk along the black line and tell me if you find a blue block.
What seems like a simple command is actually backed by TurboPi's powerful multimodal capabilities working together:

Your voice command is first captured by the AI voice interaction module and converted into text. The large language model then kicks in: it understands the core task and automatically breaks it down into three organized sub-tasks: first, activate the black line patrol mode, next, activate visual search mode during the patrol to look for the blue block, and finally, generate a voice report.

When TurboPi receives the command to follow the black line, its autonomous navigation system kicks in. Beneath the chassis, the 4-ch line follower sensor guides TurboPi, continuously tracking the ground for precise navigation. With the help of a PID control algorithm, TurboPi adjusts the wheel speeds in real-time to ensure a smooth, precise journey along the black line.

As TurboPi moves, the 2-DOF camera on top continuously scans the desk. The visual AI model processes the scene in real time, not just detecting a single object, but interpreting the whole layout—books, keyboard, cups—and pinpointing the target blue block within that context.

Once the target is found, the visual AI model sends the information to the decision center. The large language model immediately generates a report: "I found a blue block on your desk," which is then clearly spoken out through the AI voice interaction module.

TurboPi’s smooth, efficient operation showcases its potential in creating intelligent, interactive robots. It proves that AI is no longer a distant, cloud-based concept, but a hands-on, accessible technology that developers can shape and build. Whether it’s autonomously patrolling like a smart assistant, overcoming obstacles with visual line-following, or engaging in natural, intuitive conversations, TurboPi can do it all.

Hiwonder has equipped TurboPi with cutting-edge hardware for its transformative upgrade. Along with this, a comprehensive set of hands-on tutorials is provided, covering everything from deploying AI models to integrating multiple models and exploring real-world applications. These in-depth tutorials guide you through infusing TurboPi with intelligence, allowing you to not only use it but also shape it into your own smart partner.