Use Of Knowledge In Electro-Optical Trackers

ABSTRACT A real -time electro -optic tracker is described, which uses knowledge about scene processes to resolve trackingproblems involving obscuration, partial obscuration, target -like clutter or other targets in the field of view that maycause the tracker to break track. The tracker incorporates a scene model which combines extracted information fromthe sensor imagery with prior knowledge of scene formation processes and a dynamic model of object movement.The tracker maintains a tracking window large enough to allow measurement of (clutter) objects near the targetso that if the target does indeed occlude or becomes occluded by the object, the scene model has the capability toresolve the conflict and maintain track on the designated target. 1. IntroductionAn electro- optical tracker automatically maintains the direction of a sensor or payload in the direction of adesignated target by analyzing the imagery provided by the electro -optic sensor and generating commands to thepedestal servos.The tracker development at El -Op Industries focused on the development of a ground -based real -time trackerfor tracking ground targets or low level helicopters and fixed wing aircraft. As such, it was seen that an importantpart of the tracker's performance would be the ability to maintain track despite problems due to obscuration ofthe target, partial obscuration, clutter, dynamically changing target signature, decoys and the appearance of other