Smart tracking algorithm for multi‐static sonar based on expectation maximisation

Abstract

This study proposes an intelligent tracking method based on the expectation maximisation approach. To obtain the consistent tracking performance, the observer should maintain contact with the target and continuously update its tracking data. Unfortunately, a significant problem arises from the uncertainty of the target motion. The reasons behind this uncertainty include losses, time-varying noises, external inputs, and others. Above all, a sharp manoeuvre by the arbitrary acceleration input mainly degrades the tracking performance. A variety of techniques were needed and studied to enhance performance levels. This study focuses on acceleration as the cause of the uncertainty and a consistent approximation of the acceleration, leading to highly efficient tracking performance. The EM makes it possible to separate the noise term from the acceleration inputs and the noise components. Finally, a manoeuvring submarine with three-dimensional coordinates is provided as an example to show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.