About

NWU LIS is embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) by introducing the library's Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems. The physical library robot will take over mundane tasks and respond instantly to our library clients. The primary mission of library employees can be performed with greater accuracy and reliability. It will also help reduce labour requirements, time consumption and cost of library management.

NWU Robot

 

About our Robots

Robots on each campus

NWU Library Robot

The NWU robots assist students with efficient library navigation by offering real-time guidance to specific sections, answering basic questions, and providing information about library resources and operating hours.

  • Mahikeng: Sebueng (Talkative)
    • This robot is located on the ground floor in front of the Circulation Desk. 
  • Potchefsroom (Ferdinand Postma Library): Lexi (Knowledge)
    • This robot is located on the ground floor in front of the Circulation Desk. 
  • Potchefstroom: Kitso (Knowledge/Wisdom) - This is a prototype robot developed by the Library and the Faculty of Engineering.
  • Vanderbijlpark: Lebone (Enlighten)

The Robots can assist you with

  • Navigating the library and finding specific sections
  • Locating librarian offices and restrooms
  • Answering general questions about the library
  • Providing information on library services and operating hours
  • Offering guidance on how to use library resources

How to interact with the Robot

  1. Start a conversation
    Tap the robot’s screen to begin interacting.
  2. Ask a question
    The robot can answer library-related queries, such as directions to librarian offices, restrooms, and other facilities.
  3. If the robot gets stuck or doesn't return to its dock
    • Press the red button on the back of the robot.
    • Manually guide it back to its docking station.
    • Press the red button again to reactivate it.

      Return the robot to the docking station

Specifications of the robots

  1. Autonomous navigation
    • Moves independently across the library floor.
    • Avoids obstacles and patrons while adjusting to different flooring types.
    • Monitors battery levels and automatically returns to the charging station when power drops below 20%.
  2. Elevator access (Future Upgrade)
    • Designed with the potential to be upgraded for elevator use.
    • It will enable movement between multiple floors in the future.
  3. Design and branding
    • Exterior can be customised to reflect campus identity and university branding.
    • Design files are available to support personalisation.
  4. Patron interaction
    • Equipped with a speech-based interface and a large display for engagement and advertising.
    • Accessible design with enlarged text, text-based interaction, wheelchair-friendly height, and both visual and auditory prompts.
  5. Conversational abilities
    • Powered by Ctrl Chat, an AI system trained on library-provided content.
    • Supports limited conversation with contextual awareness.
    • Maintains a low fallback rate but does not perform live internet searches.
  6. Accessibility
    • Fully compliant with accessibility standards.
    • Height and movement are designed to accommodate wheelchair and mobility aid users.

 

Contact

Sibusiso Sigudla

Sibusiso Sigudla
Mahikeng
+27 (0)18 389 2211

Amkele Jampethu

Amkele Jampethu
Potchefstroom
+27 (0)18 285 2668

Thabang Lediga

Thabang Lediga
Vanderbijlpark
+27 (0)18 910 3495