Abstract: A method for estimating the occupancy of a parking lot is provided wherein map data, indicating the geometry of a parking lot, is obtained. A number of parking regions within said parking lot is then determined using said map data. A model of the spatial distribution of occupied parking regions is then generated as a function of the total number of occupied parking regions within the lot. The method further comprises receiving probe data from a plurality of portable devices within said parking lot, wherein said probe data indicates the position of each device. The probe data is analyzed in accordance with said model and an estimate of the occupancy of the parking lot is output.

Abstract: A method for estimating the occupancy of a parking lot is provided wherein map data, indicating the geometry of a parking lot, is obtained. A number of parking regions within said parking lot is then determined using said map data. A model of the spatial distribution of occupied parking regions is then generated as a function of the total number of occupied parking regions within the lot. The method further comprises receiving probe data from a plurality of portable devices within said parking lot, wherein said probe data indicates the position of each device. The probe data is analysed in accordance with said model and an estimate of the occupancy of the parking lot is output.