This project is sourced from another site, not written by us — this list is our best match of their components against what we stock, not a verified bill of materials. Always check the original blog (linked above) for the actual parts list before buying.
The DigiKey Voice-Activated Office Assistant operates as an intelligent, networked hardware-software pipeline bridging edge computing with cloud-based generative AI. At the core of the physical setup is the Sipeed Maixduino board, which captures local audio input via an attached microphone. When a user speaks, the Maixduino processes the audio and routes the signal to the supporting backend infrastructure. Python scripts manage the core logic, integrating LangChain and ChromaDB for retrieval-augmented generation and context management. The system interfaces with the OpenAI API to translate natural language queries into accurate, contextual responses regarding DigiKey products and services. Furthermore, it leverages a Swagger API to interact with external enterprise data structures, hosted securely on an AWS EC2 instance. Once the cloud infrastructure processes the query and generates the response, the data is sent back to the local hardware setup. The user can view textual output and interface data visually on the connected Sipeed ST7789 TFT display, while an optional speaker can be integrated to provide audio feedback. Power for the entire mobile unit is supplied by a standard portable power bank, allowing the office assistant to function independently of a fixed desktop workstation.
Why Build This
Design and deploy an interactive edge-AI hardware interface capable of processing natural language queries.
Gain practical experience integrating embedded microcontrollers with cloud-based large language models and vector databases.
Build a portfolio-ready enterprise information retrieval system tailored for smart workplace environments.
Real-World Application
Smart workplace assistants, interactive product guides, and voice-controlled enterprise information retrieval systems.
No specific precautions noted for this build — always follow general electronics safety practices.
Technology Tags
IOT
GENERATIVE AI
LANGCHAIN
CHROMADB
OPENAI
SWAGGER API
AMAZON EC2
SPEECH RECOGNITION
C++
PYTHON
LCD DISPLAY
WI-FI
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the Maixduino acts as the edge interface for audio capture and display output, while heavy processing like LangChain, ChromaDB, and the OpenAI API calls run on the AWS EC2 backend.
No, the speaker is an optional enhancement; the system can successfully display its responses visually on the Sipeed ST7789 TFT display.
The project uses C++ for the main application running on the Maixduino board, and Python scripts for handling the backend API interactions and AI pipelines.
Gallery
This page is part of Kitkraft's Project Hub — a curated collection of electronics & robotics projects gathered from the maker community to help students and hobbyists discover and learn to build. Kitkraft does not claim authorship of the original project, and makes no representation as to the accuracy, completeness or safety of third-party source material. The summary and "How It Works" explanation above are AI-generated, rewritten with reference to the original tutorial — not a reproduction of it. Full credit and a direct link to the original source are provided above. If you're the original creator and have a concern about how your work is represented here, please contact us and we'll address it promptly.
Kitkraft Project Hub — curated from the maker community, credited at the source.
Microphone module - Analog Sound Sensor Module for Arduino
Rs. 63.00
400 Points Mini Solderless Prototype PCB Breadboard High Quality
Rs. 89.00
MB102 Adjustable Breadboard Power Supply Module (3.3V & 5V) for Arduino & Raspberry Pi
Rs. 139.00
Jumper Wire 10 Pin Male To Male 20cm
Rs. 45.00
Jumper Wire 10 Pin Male To Female 20cm
Rs. 45.00
