A Fast Center of Mass Estimation Algorithm for Coordinates of IR Markers

For the binocular vision system based on light-weighted passive IR reflective markers and IR LED array PCB board, which is used to measure the 3-D motion parameters of rocket motor, the most important issue is determining the coordinates of infrared markers. In order to solve this problem, a fast center of mass estimation algorithm was proposed in this paper. The new algorithm segments the infrared image by self-adapting thresholding method firstly, and then calculating the center of mass of infrared markers by improved statistical averaging technique. A comparison was made between the newly developed algorithm and other algorithms such as traditional statistical averaging, FFT and least-squares method. The result indicates that the new algorithm is more suited for high-speed motion analysis because of high accuracy and faster processing speed. Tests performed on real-world images show that the algorithm can greatly improve the speed of the calculation and ensure the demand of precision on the basis of the better image segmentation result and improved statistical averaging technique.