Basilio Sierra, who leads the university's Robotics and Autonomous Systems Group at the Computer Sciences Faculty, explains the numerous kinds of light sensors that a robot might be equipped with.
"On the one hand, the sensors that a robot has - cameras, laser rays, ultrasound, infrared - to perceive the world and the interpretations of that perception," Mr Sierra says.
But it is not only its senses that place demands on the robot, as it can also have moving parts that must be managed internally.
"On the other hand, given the motor and the ability for movement, the robot is mobile," Mr Sierra points out.
The scientist, whose research interests include data mining, machine learning and medicinal applications of technology, is currently leading his team in studies of how to equip a robot with the ability to recognise doors.
At present, rather than opening doors itself, their creation is able to knock and request access, before listening for a human response from inside.
