APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR HANDLING OPTICAL DEVICES

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to optical devices. More specifically, embodiments described herein relate to apparatuses and methods for gripping optical devices. In an embodiment, an apparatus for gripping an optical device includes a base coupled to a proximal end of a stem extending from a bottom surface of the base. The apparatus also includes a plurality of arms movably coupled to the bottom surface of the base. The plurality of arms are coupled to an actuator operable to move the plurality of arms laterally along a X-Y plane parallel to the bottom surface of the base. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a suction pad operable to provide a noncontact vertical suction force.