Multiframe weak target track-before-detect based on pseudo-spectrum in mixed coordinates

Traditional multiframe Track-Before-Detect (TBD) may incur adverse integration loss resulting from model mismatch in sensor coordinates. Its suboptimal integration strategy may cause target envelope degradation. To address these issues, a pseudo-spectrum-based multiframe TBD in mixed coordinates is proposed firstly. The data search for energy integration is conducted based on an accurate model in the x – y plane while target energy is integrated based on pseudo-spectrum in sensor coordinates. The algorithm performance is improved since the model mismatch is eliminated, and the pseudo-spectrum based integration facilitates well maintained target envelope. The detailed multiframe integration procedure and theoretical target integrated envelope are derived. Secondly, to cope with the unknown target velocity, a velocity filter bank based on pseudo-spectrum in mixed coordinates is proposed. The effect of velocity mismatch on algorithm performance is analyzed and an efficient method for filter bank design is presented. Thirdly, a parameter estimation method using characteristics of integrated envelope is presented for improved target polar position and Cartesian velocity estimation. Finally, numerical results are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.