Joint probabilistic data association for multitarget tracking with possibly unresolved measurements and maneuvers

In a multitarget environment, when tracking crossing targets, a model is needed for the situation where the measurements from two targets are merged into one due to an inherent resolution threshold. A multidimensional model for the merged measurements is proposed and the resulting pdf is presented. This model is applied to augment the Joint Probabilistic Data Association (JPDA) algorithm used for tracking multiple targets in a cluttered environment, so that it can handle, in a more realistic manner, the situation of crossing targets. An extension to maneuvering targets is also presented.