Send us a text

What do rising pedestrian fatalities and the challenges of implementing intelligent transportation systems have in common? In this episode, we’re joined by Davis Sawyer from NXP and Mike "Witt" Whitaker from the City of Lakewood, Colorado, to unpack the complexities of applying edge AI to enhance urban safety. As Witt recounts his pioneering work with autonomous vehicles since the 1990s, we explore the fast-paced evolution of AI technology and its critical role in addressing real-world problems, such as the increasing need for pedestrian safety and efficient traffic management.

We take a hard look at the perplexing trend of fatal crashes involving impaired drivers despite a drop in overall traffic incidents. The conversation intensifies as we discuss the doubling of pedestrian fatalities, particularly at night, and the significant challenges posed by underreported impairment and the rise of fentanyl use. Our guests share insights into how collaborations with the police department and meticulous data analysis can reveal hidden patterns, driving the development of more effective municipal safety strategies.

Our exploration doesn’t stop there. We also discuss the advancements in detection technologies and the iterative process of refining systems like LiDAR and video to predict pedestrian movements more accurately. This episode offers a deep dive into the complexities and costs of deploying AI models in urban environments, including the importance of ML Ops, the challenge of model retraining, and the role of existing infrastructure in supporting intelligent systems. Join us as we navigate the intricate world of smart city solutions, focusing on the shared goal of safer streets for everyone.

Support the show

Learn more about the EDGE AI FOUNDATION - edgeaifoundation.org