Multi-platform Multi-target GMTI Tracking with Out-of-sequence Measurements

Sensor platforms transmit data to a central tracker using communication networks in a multi-platform network-centric tracking system. Measurements can arrive out-of-sequence (OOS) at the central tracker due to varying data preprocessing times at theplatforms, delays in transmission initiation, and communication network execution. The central tracker can also receive data out-of-sequence from a single sensor, if the sensor operates in multiple modes such as wide area surveillance and sector searchmodes. Previous researchers have addressed the OOS measurement (OOSM) filtering problem for a single target with one kinematic model, when the OOSM lies between the last two measurements (one-lag problem). We have developed and tested a new algorithm forthe OOSM filtering problem, which handles multiple-lags using a single kinematic model. We propose to develop additional algorithms to handle multiple lags and multiple kinematic models. Previous efforts have used data reprocessing and buffering formulti-target multi-sensor tracking problems. These approaches are undesirable due to the high storage and CPU requirements. No algorithm exists at present that addresses the multi-target multi-sensor OOSM problem. We propose to develop new algorithmsfor data association and likelihood computations for OOSM multi-target multi-sensor tracking using our multiple-lag and multiple-model OOSM filtering algorithms.This research will benefit surveillance of the battlespace where out-of-sequence measurementscan occur due to the use of multiple platforms to obtain a coherent and integrated picture of the battlespace. This effort will directly benefit a number of government funded programs such as MPTE, AMSTE, CAESAR, and DDB where real data collection andresearch include out-of-sequence GMTI sensor measurements. Commercial applications of the research include air traffic surveillance, border surveillance by the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Immigration and Naturalization Service.