1. A multi-layered neural network for pattern recognition, comprising: an input layer for mapping into a two-dimensional scan window, said scan window defining an input space that can be scanned over objects and which said scan window is sized to encompass more than one object; an output layer comprised of at least one output node to represent the presence of a desired object substantially centered in said scan window; and a hidden layer having local receptor fields and interconnected with said input layer and said output layer for mapping said input layer to said output layer, said hidden layer providing a stored representation of the position of said desired object in said scan window relative to the position when said desired object is substantially centered within said scan window such that a determination of the position of said desired object relative to the substantial center of said scan window can be made, wherein said stored representation is trained on said desired object at multiple positions in said scan window at different activation levels for select ones of said positions; said at least one output node operable to be activated at a predetermined level when an object is disposed at a given position within said scan window, which given position in said scan window and object corresponds to said stored representations, said predetermined level being a function of the relative position of said desired object in said scan window to the substantial center of said scan window.