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Babson Buildathon — ReFrame

Embedded software and mechanical design for the ReFrame buildathon project

Embedded Software & Mechanical DesignDesign | Python & Fusion

Overview

Led embedded-software integration and mechanical packaging for the ReFrame prototype. Responsibilities included sensor integration, real-time control loops, and making sure mechanical interfaces fit within manufacturing constraints. Delivered a working prototype and documentation for rapid iteration.

Concept

ReFrame is an AI-powered biomedical device inspired by personal experiences with Alzheimer's, designed to address the needs of the 6.7 million Americans living with the disease. It is a digital picture frame that scrolls through family photos when idle to jog memories. When activated by voice, it engages a custom-trained ChatGPT agent to prompt patients to recount memories and show relevant images. It can also facilitate simple cognitive games like crossword puzzles focused on current events.

Technology

Used Scribe for speech-to-text input and Eleven Labs for text-to-speech output. Large on-screen text supports accessible communication for elderly patients with hearing or visual impairment.

MVP Stack

Monitor for UI connected to a Raspberry Pi handling logic. Custom ChatGPT agent functionality via OpenAI GPT-4 API calls.

My Contributions

  • Embedded control and interfacing (Python, MCU firmware)
  • Mechanical packaging in Autodesk Fusion
  • Prototype PCB and sensor calibration

Project Media

ReFrame prototype device showing the digital picture frame display and enclosure
3D CAD render of the ReFrame prototype mockup, modeled in Autodesk Fusion.

Tools & Methods

Autodesk FusionPythonPCB prototypingOpenAI GPT-4 APIScribeEleven Labs