Track quality estimation for multiple-target tracking radars

Abstract

A method is developed for estimating track quality for a multiple-target tracking radar, such as an electronically scanned array radar or track-while-scan system. It is assumed that tracking error residuals and error variance estimates are available, as is the case when minimum-variance track filters are used. A normalized distance function is selected as the direct measure of a target's instantaneous track quality. It is smoothed using a recursive fading memory filter to provide an estimate of track quality. A statistical hypothesis test is then applied to the track quality estimates to determine when target tracks have achieved a specified quality for the given application. This procedure can be implemented for each target in track, and it uses only data already required by the return-to-track association algorithms used by many multiple-target tracking radars. In addition, the technique is applicable to both active and passive radar operation, and it can easily be extended to incorporate alternate or additional quality criteria.<>