The amplitude response of infrared (IR) sensors based on reflected amplitude of the surrounding objects is non-linear and
depends on the reflectance characteristics of the object surface. As a result, the main use of IR sensors in robotics is for obstacle
avoidance. Nevertheless, their inherently fast response is very attractive for enhancing the real-time operation of a mobile
robot in, for instance, map building tasks. Thus, it seems that the development of new low-cost IR sensors able to accurately
measure distances with reduced response times is worth researching. In this paper, a new IR sensor based on the light intensity
back-scattered from objects and able to measure distances of up to 1 m is described. Also, the sensor model is described and
the expected errors in distance estimates are analysed and modelled. Finally, the experimental results obtained are discussed.
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