Calculation of the Correlation Region Size for Use with Alpha-Beta Tracking Filters,
Abstract
The design of correlation regions for tracking with cooperative users is examined under the requirement to design the correlation regions on a constant probability of intercept basis. Starting with the assumption of independent and Gaussian-distributed range and azimuth errors in the sensor and assuming a constant-coefficient isotropic alpha-beta tracking filter, it is shown how the correlation region design must include such factors as sensor errors, timing jitter, tracking errors, and the asynchronous operation of the tracking function with respect to the sensor measurements. Using a specific example to obtain numerical results, it is shown that, in the case of straight-line trajectories, the radius of a circular correlation region is linearly proportional to the distance from the sensor in the region where azimuthal errors predominate and is constant in the region where range errors predominate. For a maneuvering target, it is shown that the size of the correlation region must be equal to the sum of the radius used for the straight-line case plus the magnitude of any tracking bias which results because of the deviation from a straight-line trajectory as assumed in the tracking filter. By examining various types of maneuvers, an upper bound is derived for the magnitude of the bias which could reasonably be expected in typical maneuvers. By specifying the size of the correlation region on a constant probability bias, it should be possible to obtain better discrimination against false targets and improved detection of maneuvers by sensing the development of tracking biases. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA072083
Entities
People
- Robert E. Lefferts