Project Hazel

BSc (Hons) Computer Science | Software Development Group Project

Project Hazel is an AI-powered companion robot designed to improve productivity, emotional well-being, and lifestyle balance through intelligent, context-aware interaction. Unlike conventional digital tools, Hazel combines physical robotics, artificial intelligence, voice interaction, computer vision, environmental sensing, and multi-sensory feedback into one desktop-based system. It is especially useful for students, remote workers, and freelancers who struggle with focus, digital distractions, fatigue, and mental well-being. Hazel continuously observes and responds to the user’s behavior in real time. Through its camera system, it can detect signs of drowsiness and distraction. For example, using facial landmark tracking and the Eye Aspect Ratio algorithm, Hazel identifies when a user is becoming tired and activates a wake-up protocol using flashing lights and energizing scents. It also supports distraction management by detecting phone usage during focus sessions and responding with visual signals, gestures, and verbal prompts to help the user stay attentive. Beyond productivity, Hazel improves the study and work environment through temperature monitoring, ventilation suggestions, circadian lighting, and optional aromatherapy using scents such as peppermint or lavender. It also supports relaxation through music synchronization, gesture-based controls, and simple games for study breaks. Hazel follows a privacy-first design by processing sensitive data locally. Technologically, it uses a hybrid architecture where a Raspberry Pi handles AI processing while an ESP32 manages hardware components. It also connects with a web and mobile application for scheduling, analytics, and remote interaction.