Pedestrian data collection at Conestoga's Waterloo campus
Using innovative data collection and visualization tools to better understand how people move through campus spaces and support future planning decisions
Adam Holland, SMART Centre
About the project
This research explored how pedestrian movement data can be used to improve campus planning, accessibility, and resource allocation. By combining sensor technology with digital visualization tools, the project created a proof of concept for monitoring and analyzing foot traffic patterns at Conestoga’s Waterloo campus.
The challenge
Effective campus planning requires a clear understanding of how students, staff, and visitors move through buildings and outdoor spaces. The project sought to develop a scalable approach to collecting and visualizing pedestrian movement data that could support infrastructure planning, safety initiatives, and future research.
Approach
- Collected pedestrian movement data using sensor-based technologies
- Developed a digital twin model to represent campus activity patterns
- Created visualization tools to display and interpret movement data
- Explored the use of augmented reality to enhance data interaction
- Evaluated opportunities for future expansion and broader applications
Results
- Developed a proof-of-concept digital twin platform for pedestrian movement analysis
- Successfully visualized foot traffic data within an augmented reality environment
- Demonstrated the potential of real-time movement monitoring for campus planning
- Established a foundation for future research and technology development
- Identified opportunities to expand the system for additional institutional and industry uses
Why it matters
Understanding how people move through campus environments can support better planning and decision-making. This project helps:
- Inform future infrastructure and space-planning initiatives
- Support accessibility and campus safety improvements
- Enhance the use of data-driven decision-making tools
- Create new opportunities for interdisciplinary research and student learning
- Establish a foundation for future smart campus technologies