A mechanic can absolutely set up a Raspberry Pi workstation that works hands-free while they’re under the hood. The idea is to combine voice input, touch screen fallback, AI assistant, and speaker output so the mechanic doesn’t have to keep wiping their hands. Here’s a breakdown of how it could work:
1. Core Setup
- Raspberry Pi 5 (or 4B)
Strong enough to run Linux desktop and AI assistant front-ends. - 7–10" Touchscreen
Mounted on a swivel arm near the lift or workbench. - USB or I²S Microphone Array
Directional mic (like ReSpeaker 4-Mic Array) so it can pick up commands over shop noise. - Small Shop Speakers
Either Pi-hat amp or Bluetooth speakers for AI voice feedback. - Wi-Fi or Ethernet
Internet access to fetch manuals, videos, and parts catalogs.
2. Voice + AI Interface
The mechanic just says:
- “Hey Pi, show me torque specs for a 2015 F-150 alternator.”
- “Find me a YouTube video on replacing a Subaru timing belt.”
- “Order me a set of NGK spark plugs for a 2013 Corolla.”
Tools running on the Pi:
- Speech Recognition:
- Whisper.cpp (local speech-to-text) or Google Speech API.
- AI Assistant Layer:
- ChatGPT API or LM Studio locally → interprets the mechanic’s request.
- Text-to-Speech:
- Coqui TTS or Pi-hat voice chip → “Here’s a video on that repair” or “The part is in stock at AutoZone for $29.99.”
3. Mechanic Video Finder
- AI searches YouTube / specialized mechanic forums automatically.
- Shows a playlist of relevant repair videos on the Pi screen.
- Can also summarize a video with timestamps → “Skip to 3:12 to see the alternator removal.”
4. Parts Ordering
- Integrate APIs:
- RockAuto, AutoZone, NAPA, O’Reilly, or even Amazon.
- AI parses the mechanic’s spoken request → cross-references vehicle year/make/model (VIN could be scanned from QR/NFC).
- Displays price + availability.
- Mechanic says: “Order first option for pickup.”
- Pi sends order and gives pickup ETA.
5. Grease-Friendly Interaction
- Voice First: No need to touch the screen.
- NFC Ring/Fob: Mechanic taps ring to Pi reader to authenticate orders (no greasy passwords).
- Shop Mode UI: Big buttons, bold fonts, minimal clutter for quick glances.
6. Extra Features
- Digital Torque Spec Database:
Mechanic says: “Torque spec for Honda Civic head bolts.” AI retrieves from service manual DB. - Job Timer + Work Logs:
AI logs hours automatically when mechanic says: “Start job, 2008 Silverado brake job.” - Hands-Free Notes:
Dictate observations → automatically saved to shop’s job ticket system. - Tool Checkout Tracking:
NFC on tools → system logs which mechanic checked out which tool.
7. Example Workflow
- Mechanic scans their NFC Empire Ring to log in.
- Says: “Hey Pi, I need the alternator removal steps for a 2015 F-150.”
- Pi responds with:
- Voice summary: “There’s a YouTube guide. Step 1: Disconnect battery. Step 2: Remove serpentine belt.”
- Displays video and torque specs on screen.
- Mechanic says: “Order me a Motorcraft alternator from RockAuto.”
- Pi replies: “Found Motorcraft 231-amp alternator, $229. Ordered, shipping ETA two days.”
