Advisor:   Xiaochan Xue | xxue@hawaii.edu

Prerequisites:  Basic programming experience in Python or C/C++, familiarity with Linux/command-line tools, and a strong interest in robotics, wireless systems, or AI

Courses:  ECE 296, ECE 396, ECE496

Focus:  

Description:  

This project focuses on developing a smart robotic car system that can do more than simple wireless remote control. The goal is to build a platform that combines robotic mobility, wireless communication, edge AI, and intelligent system coordination. Through this project, students will explore how a robotic car can sense its environment, communicate over a wireless network, and make better decisions in real time.

A key part of the project is to study how communication quality influences system behavior. Instead of assuming perfect wireless connectivity, the robotic car will be designed to monitor network conditions and adapt its control or data-processing strategy when the connection becomes unstable. This makes the project relevant to real-world autonomous systems, where sensing, control, and communication must work together.

The project can also include training and deploying lightweight AI models at the edge for tasks such as perception, control assistance, or environment understanding. In addition, system-level LLM capabilities may be explored for higher-level reasoning, task planning, or natural-language interaction. Overall, the project provides a flexible and interdisciplinary framework for students interested in robotics, networking, embedded AI, and intelligent systems.

Please fill out the form if you are a new student interested in this project: Google Form

Focus Designations: W (Writing)  O (Oral) for ECE496