The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is committed to advancing innovative transportation technologies that shape the future of mobility. A novel PolyU research project to develop a vehicle type detection system using artificial intelligence (AI) and geographic information system (GIS) technologies has received support from the Smart Traffic Fund, helping to facilitate traffic management in Hong Kong.
Led by Prof. Qihao WENG, Chair Professor of Geomatics and Artificial Intelligence and Global STEM Scholar at the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics, and Director of the Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Geomatics (RCAIG) and JC STEM Lab of Earth Observations, and Associate Director of the Research Institute for Land and Space, the project titled “AI-Driven, GIS-Compatible Vehicle Type Detection System Riding on Fusion of Satellite, CCTV, and Geospatial Data” has received support from the Smart Traffic Fund, with approximately HK$3.23 million in funding over a duration of 24 months. With matching funds, this project will have a total budget of over HK$4.03 million.
This project aims to develop a vehicle type detection system based on satellite and CCTV images. It will address existing AI limitations, such as limited generalisation capability and complex background interference. By developing AI-powered image analysis technology and establishing a vehicle type detection system compatible with geographic information systems, the project will deliver precise vehicle data analytics to facilitate traffic management in Hong Kong.
PolyU has long been committed to the research and application of vehicle-related innovation and technology, with a total of 27 projects supported by the Smart Traffic Fund to date.
The RCAIG was established as a joint effort between five academic departments in three faculties at Hong Kong Polytechnic University. The RCAIG focuses on developing innovative Al technologies for solving environmental and societal challenges in geomatics, with the vision of becoming a global R&D hub in GeoAl. The JC STEM Lab of Earth Observations is a joint effort of PolyU, Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, and the Hong Kong SAR government to support the "Global STEM Professorship Scheme". The laboratory focuses on the development of original and innovative Earth Observation (EO) methodologies and technologies and their applications for studies of the causes, effects, and responses to environmental and societal challenges in cities and urban areas, with the goal of becoming a global research hub in EO.
The Smart Traffic Fund provides funding support to local organisations and enterprises for conducting research and applying innovation and technology with the objectives of enhancing commuting convenience, enhancing efficiency of the road network or road space, and improving driving safety.
