Target Existence Based Resource Allocation

Assume an electronically steered antenna (ESA) radar. In between the search mode operations (where the radar completes one scan of the surveillance area), we may optimize performance by judiciously updating individual tracks. The optimization is often translated into the choice of the next track to update. We propose a resource allocation scheme designed to minimize the response time to changing target situation; i.e., confirmation of new tracks following new targets, and termination of tracks without targets. The resource allocation cost is a function of the probability of target existence of individual tracks. Approximative expressions are derived and verified. Simulation results show that resource allocation based on this cost significantly improves the response time of the system to the changes in target situation. As a spurious benefit, some of the sensor time is liberated for other activities.