PROCESS AND DEVICE FOR LOCATING AN OBJECT IN SPACE

An attempt is made to localize an object (1) with marks (3) in space, using a video camera (4). A search is made for traces of the marks (3) on the image, to deduce the directions of the marks (3) in the camera (4) view field and the position of the object (1). The algorithm used includes a step in which marks are approximately located by simple formulas, and then a step in which the estimate is improved by an error minimization calculation. Traces are modeled on the image to determine their position with high accuracy, better than the resolution pitch of the camera (4) which therefore does not need to give a very sharp image. The marks (3) are preferably passive marks and may or may not be reflecting, and do not emit any light. The system is not very sensitive to parasite lighting.