Personal Voice Assistant Robot for Autonomous Cleaning

Authors: Shwethaa.A.R, Ashwini GV, Samarth R Biradar, Shrikant Ravi Rathod, Soumya G, Yamanur

Abstract: The proliferation of service robots, particularly in domestic and semi-structured environments, has highlighted the need for more intuitive and user-friendly human-robot interaction (HRI). Concurrently, voice assistants powered by advancements in natural language processing (NLP) and artificial intelligence (AI) have become ubiquitous, offering a hands-free and natural interface for controlling technology. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the convergence of these two fields, focusing on the development of a Personal Voice Assistant Robot, specifically for floor cleaning applications. We synthesize findings from recent research in robotics, AI, and HRI to explore the key components, challenges, and opportunities in this domain. The review covers the limitations of current cleaning robots in terms of expressiveness, maneuverability, and user acceptance, and examines how voice control can mitigate these issues. We analyze different system architectures, from cloud-dependent systems to fully embedded, offline voice assistants that prioritize privacy and low latency. Furthermore, we discuss innovations in robot morphology, such as reconfigurable and zoomorphic designs, and advanced locomotion mechanisms that enhance op- erational efficiency. By integrating insights from diverse studies, we propose a conceptual framework for a personal voice assistant robot and outline critical areas for future research, including ensuring user acceptance among diverse populations, enhancing navigational autonomy in dynamic environments, and managing the complexities of system integration. This review serves as a foundational document for researchers and developers aiming to create the next generation of intelligent, personalized, and interactive service robots.