A Triangulation Method for Passive Ranging
Abstract
A method for passive ranging based on the principle of triangulation is considered. In the basic triangulation scheme that is a single baseline model the precision in the bearing readings can be related to the precision in the range estimation. For some target orientations the precision in the triangulated target is completely lost. This phenomenon is known as geometric dilution. A proposed orthogonal dual baseline scheme eliminates the geometric dilution effect. The performance of each of the two orthogonal baselines depends on the orientation. For specific target orientations the triangulation range measurements for the two baselines are equivalent. The dual baseline scheme would require smart electronics which would switch between baselines at crossover points in the range estimation precision. It is shown that the crossover points depend primarily on the ratio of the two baselines. A general expression for the maximum triangulation range consistent with limitations in minimum tolerance precision in range estimation is derived. The dependency between maximum range and target orientation are presented in polar form. Limitations in the dual baseline model due to physical limitation created by the optical horizon are also considered. Baseline, Dual baseline, Triangulation, Passive ranging.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA284180
Entities
People
- Gerasimos Pelegris
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School