Using neural networks to estimate parameters in spatial point process models

Abstract

In this paper, I show how neural networks can be used to simultaneously estimate all unknown parameters in a spatial point process model from an observed point pattern. The method can be applied to any point process model which it is possible to simulate from. Through a simulation study, I conclude that the method recovers parameters well and in some situations provide better estimates than the most commonly used methods. I also illustrate how the method can be used on a real data example.