On the effectiveness of multi-feature evacuation systems: an agent-based exploratory simulation study

Abstract

Evacuation modeling and simulation are usually used to explore different possibilities for evacuation, however, it is a real challenge to integrate different categories of characteristics in unified modeling space. In this paper, we propose an agent-based model of an evacuating crowd so that a comparative analysis of a different sets of parameters categorized as individual, social and technological aspects, is made possible. In particular, we focus on the question of rationality vs. emotionalism of individuals in a localized social context. In addition to that, we propose and model the concept of extended social influence, thereby embedding technological influence within the social influence, and analyze its impact on the efficiency of evacuation. NetLogo is used for simulating different variations in environments, evacuation strategies, and agents demographics. Simulation results revealed that there is no substantial advantage of informational overload on people, as this might work only in those situations, where there are fewer chances of herding. In more serious situations, people should be left alone to decide. They, however, could be trained in drills, to avoid panicking in such situations and concentrate on making their decisions solely based on the dynamics of their surroundings. It was also learned that distant connectivity has no apparent advantage and can be ruled out while designing an evacuation strategy based on these recommendations.

Agent-based modelling for early-stage optimization of spatial structures

“…20 For example, robotic fabrication of a plate structure morphology 21 and solution exploration through modeling architectural design components as the programmed agents 7 have both been addressed through this problem-solving approach. Research considering multi-factor energy optimization, 22 building performance simulation, 23,24 and evacuation simulation for risk mitigation 25,26 have also benefited from embedded multiagent systems. In structural design specifically, Samareh 27 mentioned optimization by ABM in grid computing as an option to consider for assisting architects in early-stage structural design, but there is a relative lack of ABM applications for this task.…”

Pedestrian Evacuation Modeling Using Agent-Based Model and Social-Force Model

“…The selection of simulation methods is highly contingent upon the preferences of the modeler and the specific requirements of the model. Zia integrates agent-based modeling with Moore's neighborhood model, taking into account variables such as Hops (the shortest distance to the exit) and Doms (the direction toward each exit corresponding to the shortest distance of cells) [4]. Delcea validates simulation results by comparing them with scenarios executed in the real world, relying on 18 students across two types of classroom layouts-classical and collaborative classrooms-to assess the impact of classroom spatial design on the evacuation process [5].…”