I know it is used with CNC machining and/or robotic manufacturing operations, But I can't remember exactly what for.
I can assure you that the chances are slim that you have seen one like this, or more precisely one that does what this one does. You are correct that it is used with a robot, just like Herb. What does it do though???
It diffuses bombs. It creates lasers. It measures earthquakes. It detects flying airplanes. It precision cuts diamonds. It drills through rock. It launches rockets. It's an anal probe. It records temperatures. It's a paper weight. It videos solar eclipses. It coils cable. It cleans heavy artillery. One of those has to be right.