Simulex; Developing New Computer Modelling Techniques for Evaluation

Many computer models for evacuation have been developed over the past fifteen years, primarily in the form of network-node analyses. These models, by their nature, are severely restricted and cannot accommodate geometrical complexity or compound irregularities in crowd transit. If modern buildings are to be analysed accurately in terms of their evacuation characteristics, then more sophisticated simulation techniques must be adopted. This papers details the development of a computer program that is based on new methods for modelling the motion of individual people in a building. The program makes use of the power of modern P.C.s and is based upon complex spatial analysis and computer-generated route-finding techniques. Particular emphasis is placed upon the incorporation of real-life data into the basic structure of algorithms, and how the performance of the program relates to the design codes[l] and Technical Standards [ 2]