Improved Target Prediction Using An IR Imager

D. D. Sworder

doi:10.1117/12.939863

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20 September 1987 Improved Target Prediction Using An IR Imager

D. D. Sworder

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Proceedings Volume 0750, Infrared Systems and Components; (1987) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.939863
Event: OE LASE'87 and EO Imaging Symposium, 1987, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

Conventional algorithms for predicting the position of a maneuvering target are based upon the point-mass properties of the target; e.g., the position and velocity of the "center-of-gravity". In addition to providing estimates of these tradi-tional target states, an IR imaging sensor can be used to make inferences regarding the "fine structure" of the target. For example, the orientation of the target with respect to the image plane has a major impact on the perceived tracking dynamics. It follows, therefore, that an algorithm which utilizes orientation information will tend to make smaller mean-square prediction errors than does one which is based upon point-mass states alone. This paper presents a image-based algorithm for predicting the position of an evasive target moving in space or the upper atmosphere where the aerodynamic drag is small. This paper employs a simple stochastic model of acceleration and orientation dynamics to derive a useful prediction algorithm. This prediction has an easily computed form even in the presence of interfeature dependence. The paper concludes with a simple example illustrating the procedures proposed in the paper. The relationship of this approach with a "constant-velocity' extrapolation is made explicit in the example.

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D. D. Sworder "Improved Target Prediction Using An IR Imager", Proc. SPIE 0750, Infrared Systems and Components, (20 September 1987); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.939863

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