Beyond the Physical AI Demo: Successfully integrating AI driven robotics on the factory floor
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In industrial circles, physical AI applied to robotics quickly become the “It” technology in 2026 and it’s not hard to see why. By endowing robots with a measure of autonomous decision making, embodied AI allows robotics to evolve beyond the limitations of rigid and often complex programming. In turn, this opens the possibility of applying robotics to a wider range of unstructured and highly variable applications that have historically resisted automation.
That potential represents a compelling draw for global manufacturers, according to Capgemini Research Institute’s recent Physical AI for Robotics report. It’s 2026 survey of 1,678 executives found that 67% of respondents said they see physical AI as game-changing and 79% are, to some extent, engaging with physical AI currently.
Yet, despite the potential and enthusiasm for physical AI and robotics, a number of reservations currently impede the nascent technology’s growth potential, chiefly the technical maturity of physical AI, a lack of safety standards and cybersecurity risks.
In this Machine Design webinar, expert panelists will discuss the realities of physical AI, including the technology’s current return on investment, technical capabilities and safety and compliance issues.
Speakers:
Etienne Lacroix
Founder and CEO
Vention
Etienne Lacroix is a business leader and entrepreneur with deep experience in building and turning around industrial and technology-driven companies. He is the founder and CEO of Vention.
Before founding establishing Vention in 2016, Etienne spent five years at McKinsey & Company as an associate partner, leading strategic and operational programs for industrial and high-tech clients. Prior to that, he held various roles in product management and supply chain operations at General Electric as part of the Technical Leadership Program.
Etienne holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS).
Anders Billesø Beck
Vice President of AI Robotics Products
Universal Robots
Anders Billesø Beck leads the global AI product strategy for Universal Robot’s collaborative robot platform with a focus on innovation, adaptability and the AI ecosystem. He is widely recognized as a pioneer in flexible and collaborative automation, with more than 20 years of experience advancing product development, new applications and smart manufacturing.
Previously at Universal Robots, Anders served as Vice President, Technology, and as Vice President for Strategy & Innovation. Beyond his executive responsibilities, Anders is an active voice in the robotics community. He serves on the board of Odense Robotics, Denmark’s national robotics cluster, and is a frequent speaker at global industry events, including NVIDIA GTC, Automatica, Digital Tech Summit and multiple podcasts.
