Abstract:

In order to estimate the ballistic target range profile length under the high noise condition, a new method is proposed based on the optimal route algorithm. Firstly, integrate the high resolution range profile (HRRP) series for a period, then calculate values of cost functions on amplitude and distance when a pixel in this HRRP transfers to another in the next HRRP. By comparing total costs of the transfer, the relativity of strong scatter centers can be confirmed. An optimal route is found on which the values of cost functions are minimal. Then the position sequence of the strong scattering centers on the target is obtained. The HRRP lengths of the target can be estimated for the period by calculating the distances between its head and bottom. The method is simple in arithmetic processing and can improve the correctness for range profile length estimation in a high noise background. The effectiveness of the proposed method has been verified by analyzing simulation data and experimental data.