The Robot Report Podcast

Епизоде

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  How Protolabs turns CAD files into parts in under 24 hours 14.08.2026 1ч 12мин

  Design for manufacturing is changing faster than most robotics teams can keep up - and if you are building physical products, this conversation could save you months of rework. Marc Kermisch shares how Protolabs is using AI, simulation, and deep manufacturing expertise to turn CAD files into real parts in as little as 24 hours, while helping engineers avoid the design mistakes that quietly kill speed, quality, and scale. Mike Oitzman and Gene Demaitre sit down with Marc, who has returned to the show since episode 138 with a new role as CTO and AI leader at Protolabs. He explains how the company’s software-driven approach links CAD models directly to manufacturing tool paths, G code, and production workflows across CNC machining, 3D printing, injection molding, and sheet metal - all built around the challenge of helping engineers get parts made faster without sacrificing precision. You’ll discover: - Why Protolabs treats AI as a practical manufacturing tool, not hype - How machine learning helps catch manufacturability issues before a part is ever built - What ProDesk does when it flags ejector locations, tight tolerances, seam issues, and other hidden design risks - How part similarity search and simulation speed up internal decisions for engineers - Where AI is already paying off in visual inspection, cobot programming, and print-box optimization Marc also breaks down the real-world tradeoffs between 3D printing, CNC machining, and injection molding, including when a prototype should stay a prototype - and when it’s time to redesign for production. He gets specific about common failure points like draft angles, wall thickness, shrink, resin changes, tooling assumptions, and the gap between prototype tolerances and production reality. If you’re dealing with robotics, hardware, manufacturing, or any physical product that must move from concept to production, this episode shows what happens when software, AI, and manufacturing expertise work together instead of in silos. It’s especially valuable for founders, roboticists, and engineers who need to make smarter decisions before the first expensive mistake happens. Protolabs is also building for the future of compliance, supply chain resilience, and low-volume production, with a network that helps customers de-risk sourcing, reduce complexity, and stay aligned with regulated industries like defense, aerospace, and medical devices. The result is a rare inside look at how modern manufacturing is evolving - and how the next wave of physical products will get made. Essential listening if you are building hardware, scaling production, or trying to make your robot, part, or process easier to manufacture the first time.
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  Building robots that survive the warehouse 07.08.2026 51мин

  This episode explores how Nomagic is applying AI and robotics to warehouse operations, with a focus on each picking, recovery workflows, and production-grade deployment. Josh Cloer, General Manager for North America, explains why the company leans into “physical AI,” how its systems are designed for always on operations, and why real-world production data matters more than simulation alone. Mike Oitzman and Gene Demaitre also dig into the practical side of automation adoption, from pilot-to-production failures to the pressure on supply chain leaders to move faster without getting stuck in vendor hype. The conversation is especially useful for teams evaluating warehouse robotics, AI-assisted recovery, or flexible automation strategies. Learn more: https://nomagic.ai/
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  FCC robot ruling shines a spotlight on U.S. policy; how next-gen AI can help warehousing 31.07.2026 1ч 29мин

  Our guest this week is Derik Pridmore, CEO and co-founder of OSARO. OSARO develops intelligent AI robotics for real-world warehouse automation, delivering scalable fulfillment solutions that optimize throughput, uptime, and overall performance. In this conversation, Pridmore breaks down how warehouse robotics has evolved from limited perception systems to adaptable AI-driven automation. He shares why hardware-agnostic design, continuous learning, and real-world monitoring matter more than flashy demos — and why the biggest breakthroughs in robotics still depend on balancing specificity, reliability, and safety. Learn more: https://www.osaro.com Also this week, cohosts Steve Crowe, Mike Oitzman, and Gene Demaitre discuss the recent news about the FCC announcement to ban foreign legged and mobile robots from import to the U.S. – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by Tiger Data Every growing Postgres database eventually hits a wall. Queries slow down, dashboards lag, and teams consider adding a second database. Tiger Data, creators of TimescaleDB, extends Postgres with time-series primitives, columnar storage, and automatic partitioning so your queries stay fast on live data. No pipelines, no migration, no second system. Just Postgres, built for the workload you actually have. Try it free at https://www.tigerdata.com/go/trial?utm_source=content-syndication&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=robotics-ads
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  Unlocking the Power of Time Series Databases for Industrial and Robotic Systems 24.07.2026 1ч 6мин

  In this episode, Doug Pagnutti, Developer Advocate at Tiger Data, discusses how time series databases like TimescaleDB are transforming industrial automation, robotics, and AI applications. He shares insights on integrating these databases with various sensors, managing data at scale, and optimizing performance both on the cloud and on the edge. Key Topics: - The role of time series data in robotics and industrial automation - How TimescaleDB extends PostgreSQL for high-performance time series workloads - Differences between open source and managed cloud versions - Strategies for integrating various industrial controllers and messaging pipelines - Techniques for managing intermittent connectivity with edge devices - Advanced tools like continuous aggregates and data compression for big data - Enabling multimodal data queries with hybrid search stacks - Future applications of time series data in AI-driven environments and energy systems - Best practices for storing telemetry, spatial, and metadata efficiently – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by Tiger Data Every growing Postgres database eventually hits a wall. Queries slow down, dashboards lag, and teams consider adding a second database. Tiger Data, creators of TimescaleDB, extends Postgres with time-series primitives, columnar storage, and automatic partitioning so your queries stay fast on live data. No pipelines, no migration, no second system. Just Postgres, built for the workload you actually have. Try it free at https://www.tigerdata.com/go/trial?utm_source=content-syndication&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=robotics-ads
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  Transforming Solar Construction Through Robotics with Deise Yumi Asami 17.07.2026 1ч

  On the show this week, Deise Yumi Asami shares how her AI-enabled robotics startup, Maximo, is transforming solar panel installation and making solar panel installation faster, safer, and more efficient. In this conversation, you’ll hear how robotics, AI vision, and smart field deployment are helping reshape the future of renewable energy infrastructure. Deise also shares the experience of starting a new company from the ground up while being incubated within a larger parent company. Learn how innovation is encouraged and celebrated inside a large organization, and how AES organizes its innovation group. Learn more: https://maxrobotics.ai/ – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by Tiger Data Every growing Postgres database eventually hits a wall. Queries slow down, dashboards lag, and teams consider adding a second database. Tiger Data, creators of TimescaleDB, extends Postgres with time-series primitives, columnar storage, and automatic partitioning so your queries stay fast on live data. No pipelines, no migration, no second system. Just Postgres, built for the workload you actually have. Try it free at https://www.tigerdata.com/go/trial?utm_source=content-syndication&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=robotics-ads
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  How Path Robotics uses AI to optimize robotic welding 10.07.2026 1ч 16мин

  Andy Lonsberry is redefining what welding robots can do, and in this conversation, he reveals how AI is pushing manufacturing beyond the limits of traditional automation. In this episode, Mike Oitzman and Gene Demaitre sit down with Andy Lonsberry, CEO of Path Robotics, to explore how his team is using AI, reinforcement learning, and real-time visual feedback to make welding robots smarter, more adaptive, and capable of handling complex real-world conditions. From shipbuilding to infrastructure and other large-scale industrial applications, Andy explains why the future of welding depends on robots that can think, react, and move to the work—not just wait for the work to come to them. They discuss: - The founding story of Path Robotics - Why traditional welding automation plateaued - How AI and reinforcement learning improve weld quality - The role of real-world sensor data in adaptive welding - Why mobile, legged robots open new industrial possibilities - The business model behind Robotics as a Service - What’s next for AI-powered manufacturing If you’re interested in the future of industrial automation, physical AI, and the next generation of robotics, this conversation is a must-listen. Submit your robotic startup for the Startup Showcase: https://www.therobotreport.com/calling-all-robotics-startups-apply-to-robobusiness-startup-alley/ – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by Tiger Data Every growing Postgres database eventually hits a wall. Queries slow down, dashboards lag, and teams consider adding a second database. Tiger Data, creators of TimescaleDB, extends Postgres with time-series primitives, columnar storage, and automatic partitioning so your queries stay fast on live data. No pipelines, no migration, no second system. Just Postgres, built for the workload you actually have. Try it free at https://www.tigerdata.com/go/trial?utm_source=content-syndication&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=robotics-ads
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  Automate 2026 Show Recap 02.07.2026 1ч 2мин

  In Episode 251 of The Robot Report Podcast, hosts Steve Crowe and Mike Oitzman are joined by special guest Sarah Wynn, Senior Editor for Packaging OEM, to recap their firsthand experiences on the show floor at Automate in Chicago. The conversation traces the industry's shift away from early-stage humanoid hype toward the practical, real-world deployment of Physical AI and edge computing. It then transitions into how software orchestration, digital twins, and advanced kinematics are solving labor shortages and preserving vital manufacturing knowledge. The following innovators, executives, and organizations were highlighted or featured via interview vignettes during the episode: Boston Dynamics & Agility Robotics: Discussed regarding the static floor displays of their respective industrial humanoids, Atlas and Digit. ABB: Featured in a vignette with Craig McDonnell (Managing Director, Business Line Industries, ABB Robotics) discussing Physical AI, AI-powered palletizing, and collaborations with Nvidia. FANUC: Highlighted for real-time motion tracking in assembly, protein processing automation, and natural language robot programming. Sereact: Featured in an interview clip with Mason Coleman (Director of Sales, North America) addressing zero-shot picking, e-grocery trends, and workforce reallocation. Schneider Electric: Discussed for their views on cloud latency limitations and their push for hardware-agnostic, open automation systems. Rockwell Automation: Featured in an audio clip with Ara Surenian (Business Manager, Production Logistics) introducing FactoryTalk Orchestration following their acquisition of OTTO Motors. SEW-EURODRIVE, Festo, & CODI Manufacturing: Noted for their compact, gantry-style robotic cells and packaging line solutions. Vention: Recognized for their prominent and accessible automation platform demos. Kassow Robots: Featured in an interview clip with founder Kristian Kassow, who explained the strategic advantages of 7-axis cobots over traditional 6-axis configurations for mobile manipulators and confined spaces. – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by Tiger Data Every growing Postgres database eventually hits a wall. Queries slow down, dashboards lag, and teams consider adding a second database. Tiger Data, creators of TimescaleDB, extends Postgres with time-series primitives, columnar storage, and automatic partitioning so your queries stay fast on live data. No pipelines, no migration, no second system. Just Postgres, built for the workload you actually have. Try it free at https://www.tigerdata.com/go/trial?utm_source=content-syndication&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=robotics-ads
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  Insights Behind Kinisi’s Acquisition by Bear Robotics 29.06.2026 47мин

  Summary In this episode, we explore the strategic acquisition of Kinisi by Bear Robotics, with Kinisi founder and CEO Bren Pierce. During the conversation, we talk about how this acquisition signals a new era of integration, innovation, and scaling in humanoid robotics and automation. Bren discussed Kinisi’s acquisition by Bear Robotics as a natural fit, since Kinisi began inside Bear’s robotics headquarters and had already built on Bear’s ecosystem. He explained that the deal combines Kinisi’s humanoid robotics expertise, datasets, and manipulation technology with Bear’s mature fleet-management, cloud, manufacturing, and sales infrastructure. A major theme was scaling humanoid robots from prototype to production. Bren emphasized the challenge of collecting affordable training data, which led to the development of a low-cost, robot-agnostic glove and gripper/data-collection system. He said the near-term focus is on making the KR1 reliable in real deployments and proving ROI in warehouses, hotels, restaurants, and other environments with repeatable tasks. Overall, the interview framed the acquisition as a step toward a broader mobile-manipulation platform that could combine robots, AMRs, and WMS integration across multiple industries. Bren described the industry as moving from novelty to serious commercial momentum, but still needing to prove large-scale deployments before humanoid robotics can really take off. Resources & Links: Bear Robotics: https://www.bearrobotics.ai Kinisi – About the acquisition ; https://www.bearrobotics.ai/blog/bear-robotics-to-acquire-kinisi-robotics – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by GreyOrange If you're running a warehouse, your robots, people, and systems are only as powerful as their ability to work together. GreyMatter by GreyOrange is the AI-powered warehouse orchestration platform that coordinates every agent on your floor in real time, with over a million optimizations per minute, and delivering up to 4x productivity gains. GreyMatter works with the robots you already have, or with the ones you want. Ready to go beyond your WMS? LEARN MORE AT: https://www.greyorange.com/TheRobotReport/
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  Deep Dive into Arm’s Physical AI and Robotics Strategies with Drew Henry 23.06.2026 1ч 11мин

  Explore the cutting-edge developments in Arm’s physical AI space as Drew Henry, EVP of Arm’s physical AI business unit, shares insights on technology innovation, market trends, and the future of robotics and autonomous systems. This episode provides a comprehensive look at how Arm is shaping the future of intelligent robotics, balancing innovative chip design, system architecture, and simulation to push the boundaries of what autonomous systems can achieve. Drew explains that Arm created its new Physical AI business unit to focus on AI embodied in machines, including robotics, autonomous vehicles, trucks, and construction systems. The big idea is that these systems need computing designed around real-world constraints like latency, power, safety, and system-level coordination. – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by GreyOrange If you're running a warehouse, your robots, people, and systems are only as powerful as their ability to work together. GreyMatter by GreyOrange is the AI-powered warehouse orchestration platform that coordinates every agent on your floor in real time, with over a million optimizations per minute, and delivering up to 4x productivity gains. GreyMatter works with the robots you already have, or with the ones you want. Ready to go beyond your WMS? LEARN MORE AT: https://www.greyorange.com/TheRobotReport/
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  AI in Warehousing: Akash Gupta's vision for the future 12.06.2026 1ч 13мин

  In this episode, our guest is Akash Gupta, CEO and co-founder of GreyOrange, a company known for its innovative approach in the warehousing robotics market. Akash discusses the strategic pivot from hardware to software, emphasizing the importance of focusing on fulfillment outcomes rather than just robotic uptime. He explains how GreyOrange has evolved its Grey Matter software to support various warehouse processes and integrate with multiple technologies, highlighting the role of AI and machine learning in enhancing warehouse operations. Akash also shares insights into the challenges and opportunities in the industry, including the importance of digital twins and predictive analytics in optimizing warehouse efficiency. ### – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by GreyOrange If you're running a warehouse, your robots, people, and systems are only as powerful as their ability to work together. GreyMatter by GreyOrange is the AI-powered warehouse orchestration platform that coordinates every agent on your floor in real time, with over a million optimizations per minute, and delivering up to 4x productivity gains. GreyMatter works with the robots you already have, or with the ones you want. Ready to go beyond your WMS? LEARN MORE AT: https://www.greyorange.com/TheRobotReport/
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  Why deterministic real-time systems are more critical than ever in robotics 05.06.2026 45мин

  Winston Leung explains that QNX is enhancing safety for physical AI-based robots through its innovative microkernel architecture, which is designed for safety-critical applications. QNX architecture provides a reliable and deterministic platform, crucial for real-time control and decision-making in robotics. By partnering with industry leaders such as NVIDIA and Intel, QNX ensures its operating system is optimized for high-performance computing platforms, thereby enabling robust safety and security measures. Additionally, QNX's focus on integrating cybersecurity with functional safety standards underscores its commitment to protecting robots operating in human environments. Winston Leung is Senior Strategic Alliances Manager at QNX, where he manages key strategic partner relationships and programs to expand the company’s product portfolio and ecosystem. He delivers strategies and thought leadership in functional safety, real-time performance, and reliability for embedded systems across robotics, medical, and transportation sectors. Download QNX’s Inside the Robot: https://qnx.software/en/reports/inside-the-robot?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=the-robot-report&utm_campaign=fy27-q2-inside-the-robot ### – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by GreyOrange If you're running a warehouse, your robots, people, and systems are only as powerful as their ability to work together. GreyMatter by GreyOrange is the AI-powered warehouse orchestration platform that coordinates every agent on your floor in real time, with over a million optimizations per minute, and delivering up to 4x productivity gains. GreyMatter works with the robots you already have, or with the ones you want. Ready to go beyond your WMS? LEARN MORE AT: https://www.greyorange.com/TheRobotReport/
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  2026 Robotics Summit Recap 02.06.2026 54мин

  Summary In this episode, the Robot Report editorial team reunites to recap the major highlights, central themes, and networking events from the recent Robotics Summit and Expo in Boston. Steve Crowe breaks down key presentations, including Brian Gerkey's insights on Open Robotics AI integration as well as the Open Source Robotics Alliance (OSRA). The team also recaps Mikell Taylor's practical framework for deploying reliable, "worthy" robots. Finally, they share highlights from the closing keynote interview with Noland Arbaugh, the world's first Neuralink patient, who discussed his groundbreaking journey with brain-computer interface technology. ### – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by Yamaha Robotics Group (YRG) — driving the future of smart automation. Yamaha’s Linear Conveyor Modules and Advanced Operator Interfaces are helping engineers push efficiency and flexibility further than ever. And let’s face it: the PLC isn’t going anywhere — it’s evolving. LEARN MORE AT: https://hs.yrginc.com/therobotreport This episode is brought to you by maxon USA. If you’re designing robots beyond controlled factory cells, mobile manipulators, quadrupeds, or humanoids maxon is worth a stop at the Robotics Summit in Boston. At the show, maxon is exhibiting its High Efficiency Joint (HEJ) portfolio: fully integrated robotic joints that combine motor, gearing, electronics, and sensing in a compact unit. Built for cyclic loads, impacts, and continuous operation, HEJ joints are designed for real‑world robotics. LEARN MORE AT: https://www.maxongroup.com/en-us
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  Exploring PLC and Robot Integration with YRG Robotics Chris Elston 23.05.2026 55мин

  Discover the latest trends in programmable logic controllers (PLCs), robotics, and their integration strategies directly from Yamaha's Chief Robotics Manager, Chris Elston. This episode offers insights into automation trends, AI's role in PLC development, and practical advice for engineers. Chris shares insights into his journey from aspiring electrician to a leader in robotics and PLC integration. He discusses the evolution of PLCs, emphasizing their enduring relevance in manufacturing due to their real-time control capabilities. Chris highlighted Yamaha's efforts to simplify integration for controls engineers through function blocks and add-on instructions, which streamlines processes and enhances tech support. He also touches on the potential of AI in automation, noting its current limitations in generating ladder logic but expressing optimism about future advancements. Chris's passion for making robotics accessible and his advocacy for using existing skills resonated throughout the discussion, offering valuable perspectives on the future of automation. Mr. PLC Website - https://mrplc.com/ Chris Elston on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriselston/ ### Listen for a special discount code to save money on your registration to the 2026 Robotics Summit and Expo: https://www.roboticssummit.com/ – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by Yamaha Robotics Group (YRG) — driving the future of smart automation. Yamaha’s Linear Conveyor Modules and Advanced Operator Interfaces are helping engineers push efficiency and flexibility further than ever. And let’s face it: the PLC isn’t going anywhere — it’s evolving. LEARN MORE AT: https://hs.yrginc.com/therobotreport This episode is brought to you by maxon USA. If you’re designing robots beyond controlled factory cells, mobile manipulators, quadrupeds, or humanoids maxon is worth a stop at the Robotics Summit in Boston. At the show, maxon is exhibiting its High Efficiency Joint (HEJ) portfolio: fully integrated robotic joints that combine motor, gearing, electronics, and sensing in a compact unit. Built for cyclic loads, impacts, and continuous operation, HEJ joints are designed for real‑world robotics. See the HEJ90 demonstrator at Booth 419. LEARN MORE AT: https://www.maxongroup.com/en-us
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  Why the World’s Most Successful Robotics Founders Are Systems Thinkers 15.05.2026 1ч 13мин

  Ajay Agarwal, a partner at Bain Capital Ventures, discussed his journey and insights as a venture capitalist, particularly in the robotics and AI sectors. He highlights his early investment in Kiva Systems, emphasizing the importance of systems thinking and integrated solutions in successful startups. Ajay shares his investment philosophy, focusing on founders with a deep understanding of market opportunities and the ability to connect technology with business needs. He also discusses the challenges and risks in venture capital, the importance of embracing risk, and the value of strong partnerships with founders. Ajay concludes by reflecting on the joy and challenges of his role, emphasizing the relationships with founders and the collaborative nature of his work at Bain Capital Ventures. Learn more: https://baincapitalventures.com/ ### Listen for a special discount code to save money on your registration to the 2026 Robotics Summit and Expo: https://www.roboticssummit.com/ – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by Yamaha Robotics Group (YRG) — driving the future of smart automation. Yamaha’s Linear Conveyor Modules and Advanced Operator Interfaces are helping engineers push efficiency and flexibility further than ever. And let’s face it: the PLC isn’t going anywhere — it’s evolving. LEARN MORE AT: https://hs.yrginc.com/therobotreport This episode is brought to you by maxon USA. If you’re designing robots beyond controlled factory cells, mobile manipulators, quadrupeds, or humanoids maxon is worth a stop at the Robotics Summit in Boston. At the show, maxon is exhibiting its High Efficiency Joint (HEJ) portfolio: fully integrated robotic joints that combine motor, gearing, electronics, and sensing in a compact unit. Built for cyclic loads, impacts, and continuous operation, HEJ joints are designed for real‑world robotics. See the HEJ90 demonstrator at Booth 419. LEARN MORE AT: https://www.maxongroup.com/en-us
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  Why Traditional Robotics Data Collection Is Obsolete and What Replaces It 08.05.2026 1ч 4мин

  Summary In this episode, we sit down with Eric Chan, the chief scientist and co-founder of Rhoda AI, to discuss their groundbreaking work in robotics. Rhoda AI is pioneering the use of a Direct Video Action model, which leverages internet video data to train intelligent robots. This innovative approach allows for efficient data use and the ability to tackle complex tasks with minimal training. Eric shares insights into the challenges of data collection, the potential for zero-shot learning, and the future of robot deployment in real-world applications. Join us as we explore the exciting possibilities of scalable and adaptable robotics. Learn more: https://www.rhoda.ai/ Key Takeaways: + Rhoda AI's unique approach to robotics using video data. + The efficiency and scalability of their training model. + Potential for zero-shot learning in robotics. + Insights into the challenges and future of robotics. ### Listen for a special discount code to save money on your registration to the 2026 Robotics Summit and Expo: https://www.roboticssummit.com/ – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by Yamaha Robotics Group (YRG) — driving the future of smart automation. Yamaha’s Linear Conveyor Modules and Advanced Operator Interfaces are helping engineers push efficiency and flexibility further than ever. And let’s face it: the PLC isn’t going anywhere — it’s evolving. LEARN MORE AT: https://hs.yrginc.com/therobotreport This episode is brought to you by maxon USA. If you’re designing robots beyond controlled factory cells, mobile manipulators, quadrupeds, or humanoids maxon is worth a stop at the Robotics Summit in Boston. At the show, maxon is exhibiting its High Efficiency Joint (HEJ) portfolio: fully integrated robotic joints that combine motor, gearing, electronics, and sensing in a compact unit. Built for cyclic loads, impacts, and continuous operation, HEJ joints are designed for real‑world robotics. See the HEJ90 demonstrator at Booth 419. LEARN MORE AT: https://www.maxongroup.com/en-us
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  Inside Colin Angle’s bid to build companion robots with Familiar Machines & Magic 04.05.2026 54мин

  In this episode, Colin Angle, founder of iRobot, introduces us to his latest venture: Familiar Machines and Magic. Angle has assembled a world-class team of engineers and advisors on a mission to produce an empathetic, four-legged robotic companion. The company recently emerged from stealth, and Angle reveals his plans for the first product in their multi-year roadmap. The plan is to ship the first “familiar” next year, promising an engaging companion for both young and old. Learn more about Familiar Machines and Magic: https://www.familiarmachines.com/ ### – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by Yamaha Robotics Group (YRG) — driving the future of smart automation. Yamaha’s Linear Conveyor Modules and Advanced Operator Interfaces are helping engineers push efficiency and flexibility further than ever. And let’s face it: the PLC isn’t going anywhere — it’s evolving. LEARN MORE AT: https://hs.yrginc.com/therobotreport If you’re designing robots beyond controlled factory cells, mobile manipulators, quadrupeds, or humanoids maxon is worth a stop at the Robotics Summit in Boston. At the show, maxon is exhibiting its High Efficiency Joint (HEJ) portfolio: fully integrated robotic joints that combine motor, gearing, electronics, and sensing in a compact unit. Built for cyclic loads, impacts, and continuous operation, HEJ joints are designed for real‑world robotics. See the HEJ90 demonstrator at Booth 419. LEARN MORE AT: https://www.maxongroup.com/en-us
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  The Art of Crossing the Chasm: When Is a Startup Ready for Enterprise Adoption? 01.05.2026 1ч 2мин

  In this episode, Neal Hansch, CEO of Silicon Foundry, shares his expertise on how startups can navigate enterprise engagement, the evolving landscape of physical AI and robotics, and the impact of macroeconomic shifts on innovation strategy. Whether you're an entrepreneur, corporate innovation leader, or investor, Neal offers valuable perspectives on fostering meaningful collaboration between emerging tech startups and large enterprises. Learn more about Silicon Foundry: https://sifoundry.com/ ### Listen for a special discount code to save money on your registration to the 2026 Robotics Summit and Expo: https://www.roboticssummit.com/ – SPONSORS – This episode is brought to you by Yamaha Robotics Group (YRG) — driving the future of smart automation. Yamaha’s Linear Conveyor Modules and Advanced Operator Interfaces are helping engineers push efficiency and flexibility further than ever. And let’s face it: the PLC isn’t going anywhere — it’s evolving. LEARN MORE AT: https://hs.yrginc.com/therobotreport If you’re designing robots beyond controlled factory cells, mobile manipulators, quadrupeds, or humanoids maxon is worth a stop at the Robotics Summit in Boston. At the show, maxon is exhibiting its High Efficiency Joint (HEJ) portfolio: fully integrated robotic joints that combine motor, gearing, electronics, and sensing in a compact unit. Built for cyclic loads, impacts, and continuous operation, HEJ joints are designed for real‑world robotics. See the HEJ90 demonstrator at Booth 419. LEARN MORE AT: https://www.maxongroup.com/en-us
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  From Sci-Fi to Reality: Physical AI's Future with Dr. Jan Liphardt 24.04.2026 1ч 5мин

  Join us as we dive into an insightful conversation with Dr. Jan Liphardt, Stanford bioengineering professor, founder of Open Mind and OM1, and a leading voice on the intersection of robotics, AI, and human-centric design. Discover how modular AI architectures, transparency, and real-world applications are shaping the next era of physical AI. In this episode, Dr. Jan Liphardt discusses the transformative impact of modular AI systems on robotics, emphasizing the importance of transparency and safety in human-robot interactions. He explores how robots are moving from sci-fi dreams to real-world applications, particularly in education and companionship. Jan also highlights the need for continuous learning and adaptability in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. ### Listen for a special discount code to save money on your registration to the 2026 Robotics Summit and Expo: https://www.roboticssummit.com/ – SPONSOR – Download the 2026 State of the Robotics Industry Report: https://www.therobotreport.com/state-of-robotics-industry-report-2026/
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  MODEX 2026 Recap 17.04.2026 1ч 3мин

  Editors Gene Demaitre from The Robot Report and Sarah Wynn from Packaging OEM spent the week walking the aisles of MODEX 2026. In this episode, we learn about all of the interesting new products and automation solutions for packaging and warehouse logistics that they discovered this week at the show in Atlanta. MODEX Show Highlights - The Rise of Multi-Agent Orchestration: Discussion on the shift from isolated robotic pods to integrated systems where diverse robot types (AMRs, arms, and sorters) communicate seamlessly. - Humanoid Robots in Logistics: A recap of the buzz surrounding humanoid deployments in warehouses, moving beyond prototypes to real-world pilot tests for trailer unloading and case picking. - Heavy-Duty Automation: Analysis of new autonomous forklifts and reach trucks designed to handle pallet-scale movements in high-traffic distribution centers. - Software Over Hardware: A key takeaway from the show floor was the industry's focus on "orchestration software"—the "brain" that manages fleet interoperability across different manufacturers. Industry News & Strategic Shifts - Skild AI & Fetch Robotics: Analysis of Skild AI's strategic acquisition of Fetch Robotics' assets from Zebra, signaling a move to put advanced AI "brains" into proven industrial "bodies." - Gemini-Powered Spot: Insights into the Boston Dynamics and Google DeepMind partnership, which uses multimodal AI to give the Spot robot advanced semantic understanding and natural language control. ### Listen for a special discount code to save money on your registration to the 2026 Robotics Summit and Expo: https://www.roboticssummit.com/ – SPONSOR – Download the 2026 State of the Robotics Industry Report: https://www.therobotreport.com/state-of-robotics-industry-report-2026/
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  Transforming Asset Management with Physical AI 10.04.2026 1ч 5мин

  Our guest this week is Christian Pedersen, Chief Product Officer at IFS In this conversation, Christian Pedersen, Chief Innovation Officer at IFS, discusses the company's focus on asset management and its evolution in the tech space. He highlights IFS's legacy in building asset maintenance software and its current leadership in enterprise asset management. Pedersen emphasizes the integration of AI in optimizing scheduling and productivity, particularly for industries with heavy industrial assets. He discusses the shift from digital to physical AI, highlighting the role of robotics in enhancing productivity and addressing workforce challenges. Pedersen also touches on the importance of integrating digital, human, and robotic workers in workflows and the potential of robots in asset management and maintenance. The conversation explores the future of AI and robotics in enterprise settings, emphasizing the need for collaboration between digital and physical systems to achieve an autonomous enterprise. Learn more at: https://www.ifs.com/en ### Listen for a special discount code to save money on your registration to the 2026 Robotics Summit and Expo: https://www.roboticssummit.com/ – SPONSOR – Download the 2026 State of the Robotics Industry Report: https://www.therobotreport.com/state-of-robotics-industry-report-2026/