Radar Centroid Processing Algorithm with Tracker Feedback Navy SBIR FY2005.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2005.2 Topic No.: N05-118 Topic Title: Radar Centroid Processing Algorithm with Tracker Feedback Proposal No.: N052-118-0494 Firm: Daniel H. Wagner, Associates, Incorporated 40 Lloyd Avenue Suite 200 Malvern, Pennsylvania 19355-3091 Contact: C Butler Phone: (610) 644-3400 Web Site: www.wagner.com Abstract: The raw detection data provided by a radar typically consists of primitive measurements that correspond to discrete range-bearing cells. A single target can generate multiple primitive detections in adjacent range-bearing cells as the radar beam scans across it; the radar system therefore employs a centroid processing algorithm to combine the primitive measurements and form a single merged detection report to pass along to the tracker. However, if multiple targets exist close to one another, this clustering process can produce undesirable results such as track degradation and/or track drop, since the measurements for more than one target may be combined to produce a single report. Here, we propose a method for utilizing feedback from the tracker to produce the appropriate number of centroid estimates in a given area, thus avoiding track drop. Our method is a modification of the Expectation-Maximization algorithm as applied to the Gaussian Mixture Estimation problem; accordingly, we will refer to our algorithm as EMARCT (an Expectation Maximization Algorithm for Radar Centroid processing with Tracker feedback). In Phase I we will develop the algorithm in greater detail, program it in a high-level language such as matlab, and demonstrate its feasibility on simulated data. Benefits: The work completed during Phase I and the Phase I option will ultimately provide a proof-of-concept for a new and improved algorithm for radar centroid processing. The most immediate benefit of an improved radar range-bearing centroid processor is an improved radar tracking/surveillance system, especially in situations that might include many closely spaced objects. In military applications, this scenario is common, so a tracker that performs better under these circumstances would be invaluable for providing the operator with better situational awareness. Non-military applications would include air traffic control and law enforcement. Return