Scattering center analysis of radar targets using fitting scheme and genetic algorithm

Development of successful radar target discrimination schemes using ultrawideband signatures hinges on an accurate understanding of the scattering behavior of complex radar targets. Since it is very difficult to calculate the scattered field of complex targets theoretically, a mathematical model (Altes (1976) model) representing scattering center impulse response has been developed to describe the scattered field. The extraction of temporal positions, pulse responses, and transfer functions of target scattering centers is demonstrated using artificially created and measured responses. Two different scale aircraft models (B-58 and B-52) are utilized. The fitting scheme based on the least squares method is quite satisfactory but its accuracy deteriorates when the overlapping of scattering-center pulse responses is severe. To overcome this problem a genetic algorithm is used to improve the results. While the genetic algorithm gives much better accuracy, it consumes much more computer time due to its global nature and lack of derivative information. The purpose of this analysis is to provide a method to reduce data storage for ultrawideband signatures in target discrimination.