Multiplatform multisensor fusion with adaptive-rate data communication

An algorithm for multiplatform multisensor fusion with adaptive-rate data communication is presented. In this new communication/fusion scheme, data are compressed before communication, and decompressed and fused after communication. The amount of information to be compressed, as well as the data communication rate, depends on target kinematics. Near-optimal globally fused results are achieved with communicating data at an adaptive rate: low rate for fusing tracks of nonmaneuvering targets and high rate for fusing tracks of maneuvering targets. Significant savings in communication resources are achieved.