A Survey on People Counting Using Wi-Fi Signals

PhD Qualifying Examination


Title: "A Survey on People Counting Using Wi-Fi Signals"

by

Mr. Tianlang HE


Abstract:

The growing demand for Wi-Fi service has led to the widespread deployment of 
Wi-Fi access points (APs). Many studies have utilized Wi-Fi signals for 
counting people within the AP coverage, which is fundamental to many 
smart-city applications like traffic management, urban planning, and retail 
analytics. Comparing with other sensing technologies such as cameras, Wi-Fi 
demonstrates its superiority in people counting due to its low cost, large 
coverage and privacy-preserving properties. Previous people counting studies 
have explored various Wi-Fi features and different counting scenarios. 
However, this makes it difficult to grasp the field quickly.

In this survey, we provide a comprehensive overview of people counting 
technologies using Wi-Fi signals. We categorize methods into two groups: 
device-free and device-based counting, depending on whether people are 
assumed to carry Wi-Fi-enabled devices. For each category, we present a clear 
classification of methods, highlight the representative studies, and explain 
the underlying principles. We also discuss the evaluation metrics to assess 
the effectiveness of these methods in different counting scenarios. Finally, 
we discuss ongoing challenges and suggest future research directions. Our aim 
is to give readers a solid understanding of the field, support practical 
implementation, and guide future research toward promising opportunities.


Date:                   Monday, 16 December 2024

Time:                   4:00pm - 6:00pm

Venue:                  Room 5564
                        Lifts 27/28

Committee Members:      Prof. Gary Chan (Supervisor)
                        Prof. Andrew Horner (Chairperson)
                        Prof. Raymond Wong
                        Prof. Song Guo