Hybrid Template- and Model-Based ATR Formulation

Template-based automatic target recognition (ATR) algorithms such as the Synthetic Aperture Radar Target Location and Recognition System (STARLOS) algorithm typically use separate templates to represent target signatures for ranges of articulations, aspect, depression, and squint angles. There is a performance tradeoo between ATR accuracy and the number of templates used. We use a hybrid model/template with target models to augment a small set of target templates. The basic idea will be to determine the transformation or perturbations required to modify a given template so that it accurately represents the signature of a neighboring sensor geometry or target articulation. By incorporating a model for these perturbations into the ATR algorithm, we can reduce the total number of templates required and provide robust-ness to new collection geometries, obscuration, and articulation.