Épisodes

  • After the cucumbers AI - a robot for industrial applications
    Jan 21 2026
    In this episode, we dive into the evolution of AI robotics, exploring how lessons from cucumber-picking robots are now revolutionizing industrial inspection. We sit down with Wouter from VBTI to unpack the journey from complex greenhouse challenges to the development of Adam One—an inspection robot that doesn’t just automate, but truly understands the task at hand. We reflect on the unique technical hurdles, the fusion of multiple AI models, and the potential for scalable, domain-specific foundation models. As always, we bring our authentic curiosity and skepticism to the latest industry trends, from federated learning revivals to the shifting boundaries of edge and cloud AI. Join us for a conversation that connects practical innovation with the big questions shaping industrial AI.
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    44 min
  • Gartner Analysts: OpsMate - "the cool vendor" ; but why?
    Jan 14 2026
    In this episode, Peter sits down with James Zhang, co-founder and CPO of OpsMate AI, to explore the game-changing role of AI agents in factory operations. We discuss why traditional human-centric manufacturing models are hitting their limits and how a hybrid workforce—combining humans, robots, and digital agents—can address the skilled labor shortage and boost productivity. James shares firsthand insights into the unique challenges of deploying AI in diverse factory environments, the importance of knowledge graphs, and why empowering frontline teams is key to successful adoption. If you’re curious about the practical steps to bring AI agents onto your shop floor, or just want to understand what the future of industrial automation looks like, this conversation is for you.
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    42 min
  • The Race for a Billion
    Jan 7 2026
    In this episode, we dive into the ambitious European initiative offering up to one billion euros to fuel the next wave of AI innovation. I sit down with Johannes Otterbach, the so-called "billion euro man," to discuss how SPRIND is bridging the gap between research and industry, and what it really takes to launch a world-class AI lab in Europe. We explore the challenges of scaling, the importance of industrial-grade AI, and why Europe's unique landscape demands new strategies for success. Along the way, you'll hear our candid thoughts on talent, technology, and the future of frontier AI. If you're curious about the intersection of ambitious funding, cutting-edge research, and industrial application, this conversation is for you.
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    44 min
  • From Charity to Taxpayer: Redefining Annotation
    Dec 17 2025
    In this episode, we dive into the world of responsible data annotation with Andreas Schachl, co-founder of Responsible Annotation Services. We explore how neurodivergent individuals—especially those on the autism spectrum—are bringing unparalleled focus and precision to the task of data labeling, raising the bar for AI model training quality. Andreas shares the origins of their company, the unique strengths of their team, and why European sovereignty and data protection matter more than ever. We discuss the practical steps involved in their annotation process, how they measure quality, and the real impact their work has on customers and the broader tech ecosystem. Join us for an insightful conversation that challenges assumptions and highlights how inclusive innovation is driving the next frontier in industrial AI.
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    35 min
  • When Cables Meet AI: Reinventing Robot Reliability
    Dec 10 2025
    In this episode, Robert sit down with Nick Tebeau from BizLink to explore how AI and machine learning are revolutionizing something as fundamental as cable management in industrial robotics. We dive into why predictive maintenance matters, how edge devices can deliver real-time insights, and what it takes to keep production lines running smoothly without ever touching the robot controller. You'll hear about the challenges of creating adaptable AI models for complex manufacturing environments and how customer needs are shaping the future of smart factories. If you're curious about the ROI of industrial AI, the realities of edge computing, or how even the simplest hardware can become a game-changer, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways and forward-looking ideas.
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    19 min
  • Why Robots Need an Ear: The Sound of Industry
    Dec 3 2025
    In this episode, we dive into why sound is the next big leap for AI in industry. I share insights from recent events, including the SPS exhibition and Europe's AI scene, and discuss why edge AI is outpacing the cloud on the shop floor. Then, I sit down with Dr. Finnur Pind from Treble Technologies to explore how synthetic sound data is powering smarter machines—from voice recognition in cars to giving robots a sense of hearing. You'll hear how simulating sound opens up new possibilities for robotics and spatial awareness, and why industries are racing to make AI models that can truly listen. We also touch on the unique AI startup scene in Reykjavik, the challenges of accurate sound modeling, and what the future holds for audio-driven innovation. Join us to discover why the future of industrial AI might just depend on what machines can hear.
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    46 min
  • Numerical Machine Learning: Where Physics Meets AI
    Nov 26 2025
    In this episode, I sit down once again with Professor Oliver Niggemann to unravel the world of numerical machine learning—where traditional engineering meets cutting-edge AI. We explore real-world projects from diagnosing the International Space Station to designing safer bridges, smarter batteries, and even optimizing biodiversity. Oliver breaks down how fusing symbolic knowledge and neural networks is revolutionizing simulation, design, and problem-solving across industries. If you’ve ever wondered how AI can speed up material discovery or what the future holds for interdisciplinary engineers, this conversation is for you. We dive into the power of surrogate models, the evolution of engineering education, and why tomorrow’s innovations demand both deep technical expertise and creative collaboration. Join us for a look at the next frontier in industrial AI.
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    41 min
  • Physics and Causality in Robotics
    Nov 19 2025
    In this episode, we dig deep into the evolving landscape of industrial AI, from billion-dollar cloud partnerships in Europe to the fierce debate over digital sovereignty. We break down what sets 'sovereign by contract' apart from 'sovereign by origin,' and why this matters for companies navigating global AI strategies. We’re joined by Professor Stratis Gavves from the University of Amsterdam to unpack the world of robotics models and the critical role of physics-informed AI. Alongside the latest industry news—like SAP’s move into open-source models and the rise of edge AI—we explore what it takes to stay competitive in a rapidly shifting market. Join us as we question, challenge, and celebrate the innovations set to define the next era of industrial intelligence.
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    55 min