State estimators for tracking sharply-maneuvering ground targets

This paper presents an algorithm, based on the Interacting Multiple Model Estimator, that can be used to track the state of kinematic point targets, moving in two dimensions, that are capable of making sharp heading maneuvers over short periods of time, such as certain ground vehicles moving in an open field. The targets are capable of up to 60 °/s turn rates, while polar measurements are received at 1 Hz. We introduce the Non-Zero Mean, White Noise Turn-Rate IMM (IMM-WNTR) that consists of 3 modes based on a White Noise Turn Rate (WNTR) kinematic model that contains additive, white, Gaussian turn rate process noises. Two of the modes are considered maneuvering modes, and they have opposite (left/right), non-zero mean turn rate input noise. The need for non-zero mean turn rate process noise is explained, and Monte Carlo simulations compare this novel design to the traditional (single-mode) White Noise Acceleration Kalman Filter (WNA KF) and the two-mode White Noise Acceleration/Nearly-Coordinated Turn Rate IMM (IMM-CT). Results show that the IMM-WNTR filter achieves better accuracy and real-time consistency between expected error and actual error as compared to the (single-mode) WNA KF and the IMM-CT in all simulated scenarios, making it a very accurate state estimator for targets with sharp coordinated turn capability in 2D.