Object classification

A method for selecting an optimal observation position for a mine-hunting vessel from which to observe an object to be classified, said method comprising:

• Using a plurality of empirically derived models for the object to be classified, said models comprising observation parameters defined as observed physical quantities of said object as a function of a measurement variable representing an observer's angular position relative to said object, and each said model representing a different class of object, said observer being said mine-hunting vessel;
• Selecting a plurality of observer angular positions from which to observe said object;
• Determining a respective corresponding value of observation parameter for each selected observer angular position according to each model in said plurality of empirically derived models;
• Determining a value of a probability function using said respective corresponding value of observation parameter for each said selected observer angular positions according to each said model, wherein said value of said probability function indicates a classification potential of said object;
• Wherein said classification potential of said object is relative:
• (i) information or lack of information, for use in a process leading toward classification of said object as one of said models, that is to be obtained if a measurement of the observation parameter were taken of the object at a respective observer angular position;
• and/or
• (ii) certainty or uncertainty with which the object could be classified as one of the models if the measurement of the observation parameter were taken of the object at the respective observer angular position;
• and
• Selecting an observation position for said mine hunting vessel from which to observe said object from said plurality of selected observer angular positions with a maximum said value of said probability function.