LingoBear: Real-time Bilingual Conversational AI Plush

Overview

We designed a low-power edge computing module inside a plush bear that runs a quantized large language model (LLM) locally. It provides safe, zero-latency bilingual tutoring without relying on persistent cloud connectivity, fundamentally protecting children's privacy.

Hardware Design

A custom 4-layer PCB integrates an NXP i.MX 8M Plus SoC with a dedicated NPU for on-device inference. The power management system achieves 72-hour continuous operation from a rechargeable Li-Po cell.

AI/ML Pipeline

We quantized a 1.3B parameter bilingual model to INT4 precision, achieving <500ms response latency while maintaining conversational fluency in both English and Mandarin.

Results

The product launched as the #1 educational toy in its category, with a vocabulary exceeding 50,000 words across two languages.