Final Project Preview
Project Details
Overview
Leveraged variables, operators, and expressions to create robust functionality in C#.
Implemented procedures using control structures like conditionals and loops for efficient execution.
Differentiated between value types and reference types for optimized memory management.
Utilized numeric, alphanumeric, and array data types to support diverse input and output scenarios.
Designed and developed GUI applications with multiple interactive components for a seamless user experience.
Challenge
Develop an interactive, front-facing application demonstrating C# programming skills while integrating AI to enhance functionality and deliver meaningful outcomes.
Opportunity
Showcase the versatility of C# by combining it with advanced AI tools to create a next-generation application.
Experiment with integrating modern machine learning frameworks and APIs, exploring their potential in real-world scenarios.
Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies like OpenAI and ML.NET, broadening technical expertise and demonstrating adaptability.
Skills
Programming and Development
C#: Proficiently worked with variables, operators, control structures (conditionals, loops), and data types (numeric, alphanumeric, arrays).
Object-Oriented Programming (OOP): Applied principles of OOP to structure and maintain clean, reusable code.
Python & C++ Exploration: Extended knowledge by exploring additional languages to understand cross-language functionality.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
OpenAI API Integration: Implemented conversational AI using GPT models for intelligent user interaction.
ML.NET Framework: Experimented with machine learning tools for classification, regression, and clustering tasks.
Testing and Debugging
Performed rigorous edge-case testing, such as decimal handling and traditional calculator workflows.
Debugged interactive functionalities to ensure accurate and consistent results.
User Interface Design
GUI Development: Created an interactive application with multiple GUI components for a seamless user experience.
Focused on user-centric design principles to ensure intuitive navigation and functionality.
Problem-Solving and Experimentation
Tackled challenges by experimenting with multiple tools and frameworks to find optimal solutions.
Iteratively refined application workflows based on test results and feedback.
Documentation Link
Microsoft Visual Studio - Coolest Calculator - Microsoft Visual Studio - 30 June 2024 - Watch Video
Process Link
Jumping off point for the final project: figjam:
Process Summary
The Coolest Calculator is an innovative project that combines traditional computational functionality with cutting-edge AI to redefine the calculator experience. Built primarily using C# and leveraging the OpenAI API, the calculator integrates conversational AI capabilities, enabling it to provide intelligent, context-aware responses and assist users beyond basic calculations.
In addition to incorporating OpenAI's GPT models, the project explored using ML.NET, Microsoft's machine learning framework. Although not fully implemented, ML.NET was tested for tasks like classification, regression, and clustering to evaluate its potential to enhance the calculator's functionality. This experimentation highlighted the versatility of AI tools and provided valuable insights into building locally customized machine learning models.
Process and Exploration
Throughout the development process, I adopted an iterative and experimental approach. Initially, I focused on integrating AI capabilities into the calculator, which led to testing different tools and frameworks. These experiments inspired me to explore additional programming languages, like Python and C++, to expand my understanding of cross-language functionality and how different platforms handle AI and machine learning tasks.
I also rigorously tested the calculator’s behavior in various scenarios, particularly focusing on edge cases. For example:
Decimal Handling: Investigated how individual decimal inputs are processed and displayed.
Classic Calculator Functionality: Analyzed how traditional calculators handle operations—displaying the first number, clearing the display when an operator is selected, and showcasing results after all inputs are provided. These tests ensured that the calculator delivered a seamless and intuitive user experience.
Key Achievements
OpenAI Integration: Added conversational AI to a calculator, enhancing its interactivity and usability.
AI Tool Exploration: Tested and pushed ML.NET while experimenting with Python and C++ for extended AI capabilities.
Iterative Testing: Ensured robust functionality through edge-case exploration, particularly in decimal operations and standard calculator workflows.
Takeaways
Moving forward from C# and somewhat working backward, I am now in the process of learning Python. As I pursue my MS in Software Engineering, I look forward to applying my design skills to each project and gaining a deeper understanding of a developer's perspective to better assist and support design projects. I attend school part-time in the evenings at the University of Advanced Computer Technology, and so far, it has been a successful journey with rewarding outcomes.
The Coolest Calculator project represents a blend of traditional computation and modern AI, showcasing the potential of combining innovative tools to elevate everyday applications. Through this project, I not only enhanced my skills in C# and AI integration but also expanded my programming knowledge and understanding of the diverse possibilities within the tech ecosystem.