Chess-machine

Chess-machine is an AI-powered robotic chess system designed to make physical chess more accessible. It moves pieces automatically and supports voice-based interaction, allowing players to discuss the game with an AI assistant.

Use Case

Accessible chess playing for people with physical limitations, recreational activities in retirement homes and hospitals, and demonstrations of AI-assisted robotics. The offline system can be used in environments without an internet connection.

Target Audience

Chess enthusiasts, people with physical limitations, care facilities, and organizations interested in accessible gaming and assistive robotics.

How It Works

A three-degree-of-freedom robotic crane moves physical chess pieces across the board. An onboard small language model (SLM) controls the motors that operate the mechanism. Speech-to-text and text-to-speech components allow users to communicate with the system and discuss chess positions. All components operate locally without requiring an internet connection.

User Journey

Technologies

Small Language Model (SLM), 3-DOF robotic crane, servo/motor control, Speech-to-Text (STT), Text-to-Speech (TTS), offline AI

Author

Niklas Auranen, Sampo Perunka

Project

GPT-Lab Summer Internship 2026