Multi sensor data fusion using fuzzy-association techniques

This paper describes the development of an algorithm to fuse redundant observations due to multiple sensor coverage of a vessel within the Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) system. Fuzzy membership functions are used as a measure of correlation, and a fuzzy associative system determines which observations represent the same vessel. The result is a computationally efficient algorithm. The output of the system is a unique set of vessels identified by unique platform identifiers. Results of tests based on computer simulation of overlapping radar coverage show that the fusion algorithm correctly correlates and fuses the sensor observations.