Ken Goldberg on robotic grasping; Carbon Robotics’ new weeding robot

Welcome to Episode 41 of The Robot Report Podcast, which brings conversations with robotics innovators straight to you. Join us each week for discussions with leading roboticists, innovative robotics companies, and other key members of the robotics community.

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This week, Mike and I spoke with Ken Goldberg and Jim Liefer of Ambi Robotics. Formerly known as Ambidextrous Laboratories, Ambi Robotics recently exited stealth mode by raising $6.1 million in seed funding for its picking robots and operating system that are based on simulation-to-reality artificial intelligence. They explain how Dex-Net, which was created by Goldberg’s team at UC Berkeley is powering Ambi’s robots. They also share lessons learned over the years, challenges of universal grasping and much more.

Mike also spoke with Paul Mikesell, founder and CEO of Carbon Robotics, who takes us inside the development of the company’s third-generation weeding robot. At the core of the machine is a high-power laser that “zaps” the weeds using high intensity thermal energy to destroy an individual plant, without disturbing the soil. As a result, farmers can become more eco-friendly and use fewer herbicides.

Mike and I also break down WTWH Media’s acquisition of Mobile Robot Guide, how it strengthens our company’s growing robotics portfolio, and the brand’s role in educating users about the benefits of mobile robots.

If you would like to be a guest on an upcoming episode of the podcast, or if you have recommendations for future guests or segment ideas, contact me. For sponsorship opportunities of The Robot Report Podcast, contact Courtney Nagle for more information.