Sam Herbert

Software Architect & Robotics Engineer | Patent Holder in Robotic Systems & Imaging Tech

Greater Homosassa Springs Area

About

As a software architect and robotics engineer, I bring a deep passion for building innovative systems that bridge hardware, software, and real-world challenges. My journey began at the University of Minnesota, where I earned my degree in 2009 and contributed to cutting-edge robotics research at the Center for Distributed Robotics. There, I developed the Loper—a versatile quadruped-hybrid robot designed for urban search and rescue—featuring a novel Tri-lobe wheel and compliant chassis to navigate stairs, rubble, and difficult terrain. This work culminated in two IEEE ICRA publications (2008 and 2009), demonstrating how thoughtful mechanical and software integration can expand robotic capabilities in high-stakes environments. Building on that foundation, I pursued inventions that blend mechanical design, imaging, and automation. I am a named inventor on multiple U.S. patents, including a robotic vehicle system for enhanced terrain traversal (US 8,260,459), microlens sheeting techniques for floating composite images (US 7,738,175), electrode testing apparatus for precise resistivity inference (US 20130320994), and computer-aided rating tools for manufactured web products. These innovations reflect my drive to solve practical problems through interdisciplinary engineering—whether enabling robots to move reliably or improving quality control in manufacturing processes. Today, I focus on the integration and interoperability of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) and custom systems. In an era of increasingly complex tech stacks, ensuring seamless communication between components is critical for scalable, reliable solutions. I apply principles from microservices architecture, software design patterns, and systems engineering to bridge legacy and modern technologies, often in resource-constrained or mission-critical settings. I'm always eager to connect with collaborators in robotics, software architecture, system integration, or emerging tech. If you're working on AI-driven automation, distributed robotics, or innovative COTS-custom hybrids, let's discuss how we might advance these fields together. Open to opportunities, partnerships, and thought-provoking conversations—feel free to reach out!

Experience

  • Principal Software Engineer at University of South Florida
    Dec 2023 - Feb 2026 · 2 yrs 3 mos

  • Senior Software Engineer at Gibbs & Cox, A Leidos Company
    May 2021 - Aug 2022 · 1 yr 4 mos

  • Senior Software Engineer at Sparton
    Sep 2019 - Aug 2020 · 1 yr

  • Senior Software Engineer at Amazon
    Apr 2015 - Mar 2018 · 3 yrs

    Amazon Fulfillment Technology (AFT) - Robotics Prototyping Group In AFT I developed software to orchestrate the automated sortation of inventory for customer orders (Customer Order Consolidation) and movement between warehouse locations (Transshipment). Voice and Advanced Natural user interface Shopping (VANS) - Amazon’s Choice Team In VANS I developed Amazon’s Choice, a method of product promotions based on machine learning. The goal of the project was to provide a best choice for shopping intents through Alexa (Echo Devices). Amazon’s Choice leverages machine learning to understand key attributes in aggregate customer shopping behaviour data and use these attributes to select products based on user queries. Key Skills: Software Design, Software Development (Java / Python), Machine Learning.

  • Lead Engineer at Anser Innovation LLC
    May 2014 - Mar 2015 · 11 mos

    Research and Development Anser Innovation is a technology company developing internet-based software and hardware to enhance remote interaction. Anser connects the disconnected, focusing on market segments that cannot use a phone or computer. Its first target is the retail pet market with PetChatz. Future technologies will address needs in aging adult and dependent child markets. As lead engineer I worked with our engineering team to move product development forward, tweak the processes as needed, and remove obstacles so our engineering team could work as efficiently as possible. Key Skills: Systems Engineering, Software Development (C++, GStreamer, POCO), Linux, Product Development