Robotic systems and methods for objectively evaluating coating compositions and applicators

A method for objectively quantifying at least one of coating composition and coating composition applicator properties comprising:

• applying a coating composition to a test bed using a coating composition applicator using a controlled sensing arm according to one or more pre-programmed movement routines for the controlled sensing arm, the controlled sensing arm including an extender coupled to the coating composition applicator and a sensor capable of measuring force, torque, or combinations thereof;
• sensing one or more of force, torque, or combinations thereof using the controlled sensing arm;
• preventing relative movement of the test bed and the controlled sensing arm using a rigid frame;
• and
• deriving a quantitative application characteristic of the coating composition the coating composition applicator, or both, wherein the quantitative application characteristic is independent of human application variation and subjective quality criteria;
• and wherein the quantitative application characteristic is suitable for objective comparison of the coating composition, the coating composition applicator, or both;
• and
• outputting the quantitative application characteristic to a user.