The novel infrared target localization algorithm for free floating space robot

With regards to the complicated characteristic of outer space, the infrared target recognition system has been investigated for free floating space robot. A novel algorithm is proposed based on visual location method for free floating space robot. Firstly, we set an omnidirectional camera with fixed lens on the ceiling. Here, the free floating robot is moving on the platform. Especially, in order to reduce image noise, we fix an infrared filter in the lens. Then, we place a number of infrared-emitting diodes on the free floating space robot and the targets. Finally, we can get the accurate positions and angle information of the robot and the target according to the location of the infrared light. The experimental results prove that this approach presented in this paper is an effective method for target detection and static target capture for free floating space robot.