A modified exact maximum likelihood registration algorithm

The registration problem is a prerequisite process for radar networking systems to estimate and correct systematic errors accurately. An exact maximum likelihood (EML) registration algorithm was presented in the literature (Zhou Yifeng et al, IEEE Trans. Sigpro., vol.45(6), p.1560-1572, 1997), which incorporates the effects of measurement noise. Although this algorithm is superior to some classical registration algorithms, we find its likelihood function is not exact. A novel modified maximum likelihood (MEML) registration algorithm is presented, which is superior to the EML registration algorithm, with an exact likelihood function. Finally, simulated data are used to evaluate the performance of the two algorithms.