Abstract: There is disclosed a system for determining the spatial position of an object with a video optical sensor which detects predetermined features of this object and generates signals which correspond to the features, the signals being then processed in an electronic computer connected to a control handling circuit of a handling apparatus, such as a garbage collecting truck provided with a pick-up claw and a lifting and tipping mechanism for picking up the garbage can which is provided with a receiving pocket for the pick-up claw. In the system, the object, such as the garbage can, is provided with at least three retroreflective marks arranged in a predetermined pattern, angularly related to each other and illuminated by a light source, and a semiconductor area having an area sensor disposed in juxtaposition to and in spatial association with the light source so that the pick-up claw is guided into the receiving pocket of the can for lifting and tipping thereof to empty it.