3D Target Tracking via Multi-System Data Correlation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current target location systems require specific operating constraints and cannot generate three-dimensional target tracks from two-dimensional and three-dimensional tracks expressed in different formats, limiting their versatility in maritime, air, and land surveillance.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that enable the generation of three-dimensional target tracks from two-dimensional and three-dimensional tracks in any format, using multiple target location systems with an electronic processor to correlate and fuse kinematic data, allowing for the calculation of heights and speeds in a single three-dimensional reference system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If specific operating constraints are imposed on target location systems to generate three-dimensional tracks, then tracking accuracy is improved, but system versatility and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal data processing framework that can handle multiple input formats (2D and 3D tracks from different location systems) and produce unified 3D tracking output. The system accepts data from various sources including radar, satellite, and other location systems without requiring them to conform to specific operating constraints, thus maintaining versatility while achieving accurate 3D tracking through standardized processing procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary data processing system that acts as a mediator between diverse target location systems and the final 3D tracking output. This intermediary layer standardizes and harmonizes data from different sources with varying formats and coordinate systems, enabling accurate 3D track generation without imposing constraints on the original location systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple target location systems with different data formats are integrated, then system versatility is improved, but data correlation and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent systematically transforms data from various coordinate systems and formats into a unified reference frame. It employs parameter transformation procedures that convert 2D polar coordinates, 2D bearing coordinates, 3D spherical coordinates, and other formats into a standardized 3D Cartesian or geographic coordinate system, thereby managing processing complexity through systematic parameter changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the complex data integration process into distinct sequential stages: data acquisition from multiple sources, format identification and classification, coordinate transformation, correlation testing, and final 3D track generation. This segmentation of the processing workflow reduces overall complexity by breaking down the integration challenge into manageable, standardized steps.
3Reliability
If correlation testing is performed on all incoming tracks to determine target identity, then tracking reliability is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary filtering and pre-correlation checks on incoming track data before conducting full correlation testing. It prepares data by pre-processing coordinates, pre-identifying potential target matches based on spatial proximity and temporal consistency, and pre-classifying track types. This preliminary action reduces the number of tracks requiring exhaustive correlation testing, thereby maintaining reliability while reducing processing time.
Data Source
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AI summary
The ion relates to a three-dimensional target tracking method comprising: aacquiring a first track generated by a first target location system (2,11,A) having a first coverage area (13), said first track comprising a first position of a first target at a given time in a first relative reference system of the first target location system (2,11,A); acquiring a second track generated by a. second target location system (2,12,B) having a second coverage area (14) partially overlapping the first coverage area (13) in a coverage region (15) shared by the two target location systems (2,11,12,A,B), said second track comprising a second position of a second target at the given time in a second relative reference system of the second target location system (2,12,B); and carrying out a correlation test which includes checking whether a. same height (hO) is determined for the first target and the second target in a given three-dimensional reference system on the basis of the first position and the second position.