how to code a spike prime censor robot

3 min read 27-01-2025

This article will guide you through building and programming a LEGO SPIKE Prime robot that can detect and react to inappropriate language. This project combines robotics with natural language processing (NLP), offering a fun and educational experience. We'll focus on the core coding aspects, assuming you have basic familiarity with LEGO SPIKE Prime and its programming environment.

Project Overview: The Censor Bot

Our Censor Bot will utilize a pre-trained profanity filter (accessible through a Python library) to analyze text input. This input can come from various sources, such as a connected device with a keyboard or a pre-defined list within the program itself. Based on the analysis, the robot will perform a pre-programmed action. This could involve:

Displaying a message: Showing a warning on the SPIKE Prime's screen.
Sounding an alarm: Using the SPIKE Prime's sound capabilities.
Physical response: Moving the robot or manipulating parts.

We'll focus on a simplified version using a pre-defined list of words and avoiding complex NLP libraries that might exceed the SPIKE Prime's processing capabilities.

Step 1: Building the Robot

The physical construction is flexible. A simple base with a display is sufficient. Feel free to add creative elements—rotating parts, lights, etc.—to enhance the robot's reaction.

Suggested Build:

A stable base using the SPIKE Prime hub and large LEGO bricks.
The SPIKE Prime hub's display for messages.

Remember to build a sturdy structure to ensure stability during operation.

Step 2: Coding the Profanity Filter

This is where the core logic resides. Because the SPIKE Prime environment doesn't directly support sophisticated NLP libraries, we'll implement a simplified profanity filter using a list of words:

profanity_list = ["badword1", "badword2", "badword3"] # Add your list here

def is_profane(text):
    text = text.lower()
    for word in profanity_list:
        if word in text:
            return True
    return False

This function checks if any word from profanity_list exists within the input text. You'll want to expand this list with words you wish to filter. Keep in mind the limited memory of the SPIKE Prime.

Step 3: Integrating with SPIKE Prime

We'll now integrate the Python code into the SPIKE Prime's programming environment. Remember to break down your code into modular functions for better readability and maintainability.

Example Code (simplified):

from spike import MotorPair, Motor, Screen

# ... (Profanity filter function from Step 2) ...

motor_pair = MotorPair('A', 'B') # Or adjust to your motor configuration
screen = Screen()

input_text = "This is a test sentence with a badword1" # Replace with your input method

if is_profane(input_text):
    screen.draw_text("PROFANITY DETECTED!", 10, 10)
    motor_pair.start(speed=-50) #Example: Robot moves backward
    # Add other actions here (sound, lights etc.)
else:
    screen.draw_text("All Clear!", 10, 10)

This code snippet demonstrates a basic workflow:

Input text is analyzed using is_profane().
Based on the result, actions are triggered (message on screen, motor movement).

Adapt this to include the specific actions you want your robot to perform. Remember to replace placeholder comments with your chosen sensors and actuators.

Step 4: Expanding the Functionality

You can enhance your Censor Bot in many ways:

More Sophisticated Filtering: Explore using external resources or more advanced techniques (though limitations of SPIKE Prime's processing power should be considered).
Input Methods: Instead of hardcoded text, use other input methods like a connected Bluetooth device for real-time interaction.
Advanced Actions: Incorporate more intricate robot movements, light patterns, or sound effects to create a richer response.
User Interface: Develop a user-friendly interface on the SPIKE Prime's screen for managing the profanity list or selecting actions.

Conclusion

This project provides a foundational understanding of combining robotics with basic NLP. While a fully advanced censor robot is beyond the SPIKE Prime's capabilities without extensive external resources, this project showcases how to build a simplified version, which is a great starting point for exploring more advanced concepts. Remember to prioritize safety and responsible use of this technology. Have fun building your Censor Bot!