INTERACTING MULTIPLE MODEL TRACKING WITH TARGET AMPLITUDE FEATURE

A recursive tracking algorithm is presented which utilizes the strength of target returns to improve track formation performance and track maintenance through target maneuvers in a cluttered environment. This technique combines the interacting multiple model approach (IMM) with a generalized probabilistic data association (PDA) which utilizes the measured return amplitude in conjunction with probabilistic models for the target and clutter returns. The advantage of this approach is that key tracking decisions can be made automatically by assessing the probabilities of target models to provide rapid and accurate decisions for both true track acceptance and false track dismissal in track formation. Furthermore, it also provides the ability to accurately continue tracking through coordinated turn target maneuvers.