In this episode, we sit down with Fareed Aljawhari, the CEO and founder of Micropolis Robotics, to explore the evolution of robotics in Dubai and the Middle East. Aljawhari shares his unique journey from a creative director to a leader in robotics, discussing the pivotal shift from digital twins to autonomous robots.
The conversation explores Micropolis' modular approach, strategic partnerships, and the critical role of Dubai government support in driving technological advancement. Aljawhari also highlights the company's focus on IoT and edge computing as integral components of their automation strategy.
To learn more about Micropolis Robotics goto: https://www.micropolis.ai/
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1:06:06
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1:06:06
Designing Space Robots
In this episode, Mike Oitzman, Gene Demaitre, and Chris Finger discuss the role of Harmonic Drive in space robotics, exploring the challenges and innovations in designing robots for space applications. They examine the history of Harmonic Drive's involvement in space missions, the trends in space commercialization, and the technical considerations for gearing in space environments.
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SPONSORED BY HARMONIC DRIVE
To learn more about Harmonic Drive products or contact a sales representative in your area, go to www.harmonicdrive.net or call 978-532-1800
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16:44
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16:44
The Power of STEM: Shaping the Next Generation
Join us as we explore the critical role of STEM education in reshoring manufacturing and empowering the next generation of engineers. Featuring insights from Dhaval Jadav, CEO of Alliant Group, and Dr. Robert Ambrose, Professor at Texas A&M, and Director of Robotics at Alliant Group, this episode digs into the challenges and opportunities in fostering a diverse and skilled workforce, and how robotics competitions serve as a gateway to STEM fields.
Learn how STEM related programs from K-12 and then community colleges and universities are preparing the next generation of engineers, technicians and other professionals necessary to support the growing population of robots and autonomous systems.
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1:23:34
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1:23:34
How ODW Logistics is Innovating with Automation
This week on the show, we welcome Brian Chereson, an industrial engineer from ODW Logistics, and Cody Upp, head of commercial for Zebra Robotics Automation. Together, they dive into the transformative role of robotics and automation in logistics. The conversation explores the deployment of Zebra's Symmetry Fulfillment Person to Goods AMR system at ODW Logistics, highlighting the strategic benefits of flexible, cost-effective solutions. Key topics include reducing labor costs, improving order accuracy, and enhancing employee engagement through innovative technologies.
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– SPONSOR –
Are manual picking operations or idle robots slowing your growth?
The cutting-edge Zebra Symmetry Fulfillment solution is engineered to reduce your costs per unit and give you an unbeatable competitive edge.
Autonomous mobile robots guided by Team Intelligence empower your workers to achieve their maximum potential, enabling you to scale efficiently and boost profitability.
Don’t settle for less—maximize your profits with Zebra.
Discover the future of fulfillment at https://www.zebra.com/fulfillment
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53:33
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53:33
FIRA 2025 Ag robotics recap
Summary
This week, Mike Oitzman recaps the FIRA 2025 Ag Robotics event in Woodland, CA, highlighting the latest innovations in new automation solutions for agriculture. Featured guest this week is Danny Bernstein, founder of The Reservoir, an agtech incubator located in Salinas, CA. Danny takes us through the creation of The Reservoir and the vision for the organization to support new Ag automation startups.
Also on the show is a brief conversation with Dave Silver, Director of Orchard Autonomy at John Deere, who updates us on the latest orchard solutions from JD.
Companies mentioned in the recap:|
- Bonzai Robotics
- AgScout (vineyard yield management software)
- TensorField (hot oil weeding solution)
- Pittsburgh Robotics
- John Deere
- The Reservoir
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– SPONSOR –
Are manual picking operations or idle robots slowing your growth?
The cutting-edge Zebra Symmetry Fulfillment solution is engineered to reduce your costs per unit and give you an unbeatable competitive edge.
Autonomous mobile robots guided by Team Intelligence empower your workers to achieve their maximum potential, enabling you to scale efficiently and boost profitability.
Don’t settle for less—maximize your profits with Zebra.
Discover the future of fulfillment at https://www.zebra.com/fulfillment
Join Steve Crowe and Mike Oitzman each week for discussions with leading roboticists, innovative robotics companies, and other key members of the robotics community.