Synopsis: In this Techstrong AI video interview, Mytra CTO Ahmad Baitalmal explains why it is critical for artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics engineers to understand the physical constraints of an environment before they build and deploy a solution.
In this Techstrong AI interview, host Mike Vizard speaks with Ahmad Baitalmal, CTO of Mytra, about the evolution of warehouse automation and the critical role of robotics. Baitalmal emphasizes that many companies rush into automation without fully understanding the processes they aim to improve. He compares this trend to early social media platforms, where success was often accidental, while the most effective solutions stemmed from deep customer insight. Similarly, in industrial robotics, the key to meaningful innovation is firsthand experience—companies must step into the shoes of warehouse workers, understand pain points, and design automation solutions that genuinely enhance efficiency rather than just looking impressive.
A major challenge in industrial robotics, Baitalmal explains, is AI’s struggle to comprehend physical environments. Many robotic projects fail because they overlook fundamental principles like physics, motion, and spatial awareness. AI’s capabilities are often overestimated, leading to costly missteps. To bridge this gap, businesses must take a pragmatic approach—deploy AI solutions, identify shortcomings, and refine them iteratively. Simply assuming AI will function flawlessly in real-world settings without rigorous testing and adaptation is a mistake that can lead to millions in wasted investments.
Looking ahead, Baitalmal argues that instead of pursuing humanoid robots capable of handling multiple tasks, the future lies in networks of specialized machines working together. He illustrates this with Mytra’s approach to material handling—rather than designing a humanoid robot to perform multiple complex tasks, the company focused on creating an efficient, lightweight alternative to traditional forklifts. By prioritizing function over preconceived notions of what automation should look like, businesses can develop more effective, energy-efficient, and cost-saving solutions for warehouse and industrial automation.
