On electrical load disaggregation using factor graphs

The problem of source separation in general and electrical load disaggregation in particular, is an important component within the context of cyber-physical systems. Electric load disaggregation aims to bring in a number of benefits for different stake holders from end consumer to utilities and grid companies. In this paper, we illustrate the use the frame work of Factor graphs (FGs) to solve the problem of electrical load disaggregation, for a home scenario. We map the load disaggregation problem into a factor graph framework under some assumptions and demonstrate the applicability and elegance of the framework on an experimental set up as well as on an open data set. Additional pointers towards applying the FG-based techniques in realistic situations suitable for actual deployment are also discussed.