Joint modeling of object population estimation using sensor data and distributed device data

#This disclosure relates generally to processing of sensor data, and, in particular, to joint modeling of object population estimations using sensor data and distributed device data.

#The knowledge of the size of a population of objects in a given area of interest (AOI) may prove to be a critical information source in many scenarios. For example, estimating the number of people at a given time of day that may be present in a building may assist in disaster planning and evacuation. Estimating an amount of foot traffic in a commercial space may also assist in transportation planning and future commercial development.

#Multiple methods may be used to determine a population size at a target AOI. A simple approach may simply be to visit a location and count each of the objects of interest at the location. However, this quickly poses a logistical issue when more than a few estimates are needed, and when the size of the AOI, and the number of objects is large. Instead, sensor data of the AOI, such as aerial imaging, may be used to estimate a population. This sensor data can be used to gather information used to estimate the population at the target AOI without an on-location component.

#The disclosed embodiments have advantages and features which will be more readily apparent from the detailed description, the appended claims, and the accompanying figures (or drawings). A brief introduction of the figures is below.

#Figure (FIG. 1 illustrates an example system for joint modeling of object population estimation using sensor data and distributed device data, in accordance with an embodiment.

#FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example flow for the joint modeling of object population estimation using sensor data and distributed device data, in accordance with an embodiment.

#The Figures (FIGs.) and the following description relate to preferred embodiments by way of illustration only. It should be noted that from the following discussion, alternative embodiments of the structures and methods disclosed herein will be readily recognized as viable alternatives that may be employed without departing from the principles of what is claimed.

#Reference will now be made in detail to several embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying figures. It is noted that wherever practicable similar or like reference numbers may be used in the figures and may indicate similar or like functionality. The figures depict embodiments of the disclosed system (or method) for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles described herein.

#Configuration Overview