Optimal waveform selection for tracking systems

Investigates adaptive waveform selection schemes where selection is based on overall target tracking system performance. Optimal receiver assumptions allow the inclusion of transmitted waveform specification parameters in the tracking subsystem defining equations. The authors give explicit expressions for two one-step ahead optimization problems for a single target in white Gaussian noise when the tracker is a conventional Kalman filter. These problems may be solved to yield the most improvement possible in tracking performance for each new transmitted pulse. In cases where target motion is restricted to one dimension, closed-form solutions to the local (one step ahead) waveform optimization problem have been obtained. The optimal waveform selection algorithms in the paper may be included with conventional Kalman filtering equations to form an enhanced Kalman tracker. Simulation examples are presented to illustrate the potential of the waveform selection schemes for the optimal utilization of the capabilities of modern digital waveform generators, including multiple waveform classes. The extension of the basic waveform optimization scheme to more complex tracking scenarios is also discussed