An innovative algorithm for the solution of the measurement-track assignment problem

A generic technique is presented for the solution of the "measurement-track assignment" or "data association" problem typically encountered in tracking targets when a set of contemporaneous measurements are received from sensors. The method is designed to give the most probable association between existing tracks and a set of measurements whilst also identifying potential new tracks/false measurements. A fast and resource-frugal implementation is possible using procedures tailored to an efficient search for a solution. Two simple cases are worked through to illustrate the operation of the method and its sensitivity to parameterisation.