Characterization of an innovative like-eye sensor for feature detection and robot sensing

In this paper the authors present an application of an innovative device consisting in a new optical sensor accurately moved by driving a controlled robotic arm. The new sensor is made up of nanocomposite material and it is composed of an optical fiber source, an optical fiber bundle receiver and a PDMS-Au tip able to enhance the light. The device allows to reconstruct the target characteristics taking advantage of the backscattered light. The motion of the sensor is obtained by means of a robot manipulator which gripper grasps and moves the sensor. The realized device has been tested in order to evaluate its ability to provide useful information on colours, surface opacity and profile of the detected objects. © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.