Abstract: Embodiments include systems for determining one or more properties of an object. In an embodiment, a system includes a gripping element, a light source, a probe element including an optical fiber, a spectrometer, and a processor. The gripping element is configured to grasp the object. The light source is configured to illuminate the object. The probe element is operatively coupled to the gripping element. The optical fiber is configured to transmit reflected light from the object. The spectrometer configured to: (i) receive the transmitted reflected light from the optical fiber and (ii) generate spectral data based on the received transmitted reflected light. The processor is configured to: (i) receive the generated spectral data from the spectrometer and (ii) determine one or more properties of the object based on the received generated spectral data.

Abstract: Systems and methods for determining properties of an object are disclosed. A system includes a gripping element and at least one waveguide coupled to the gripping element. The waveguide is configured to transport a light signal through the gripping element and to transmit the light signal, at least a portion of the light signal illuminating the object. A detector is configured to detect at least a portion of the light signal and sense a curvature of the gripping element. A probe element coupled to the gripping element is configured to collect light reflected from the object. A spectrometer is configured to generate spectral data using the reflected light collected. A processor is configured to calibrate the spectral data based on the curvature and to determine properties of the object based on the curvature and the spectral data. The system enables recognition and profiling of objects based on spectroscopy and curvature.

Abstract: A system, method, and means for manipulating deformable objects are provided. The system may comprise a baseplate and at least one appendage actuation module configured to mount on the baseplate. The at least one appendage actuation module may include an appendage of rigid and elongate construction, a platform, and at least one actuation device. The at least one actuation device may be in coupled arrangement with the appendage and the platform to cause the appendage to move in at least three degrees-of-freedom, at least including an axis of linear translation and an axis of rotation, with respect to the baseplate. The at least one appendage actuation module may be capable of actuating the appendage with sufficient force to manipulate the deformable objects along a plurality of degrees of motion, at least including three axes of rotation. Embodiments may be useful for robotic automation in food processing or assistive technologies.

Abstract: Embodiments include systems for determining one or more properties of an object. In an embodiment, a system includes a gripping element, a light source, a probe element including an optical fiber, a spectrometer, and a processor. The gripping element is configured to grasp the object. The light source is configured to illuminate the object. The probe element is operatively coupled to the gripping element. The optical fiber is configured to transmit reflected light from the object. The spectrometer configured to: (i) receive the transmitted reflected light from the optical fiber and (ii) generate spectral data based on the received transmitted reflected light. The processor is configured to: (i) receive the generated spectral data from the spectrometer and (ii) determine one or more properties of the object based on the received generated spectral data.