[comp.graphics] algorithm request: fit to a circle

vmrad@deneb.ucdavis.edu (0048;0000030315;500;737;56;) (10/06/89)

In keeping with the latest comp.graphics fad:

I need an algorithm.  Something to fit points in 2-D space to a
circle.  I'm thinking Least-Squares-Fit to a circle, or some such
thing.

After I find my data does not fit well to a circle, I might want to try
an ellipse instead of a circle.

I've searched through some books and collections of algorithms and I
have found no direct technique for fitting to a circle.  Is there some
technique of more generic fitting that would be applicable to this
class of problem?

As always, any help would be appreciated.
Bernard Littau

VM Radiological Sciences          Telephone: (916) 752-0184
School of Veterinary Medicine     Internet:  vmrad@ucdavis.edu