Datorsimulering av utrymning vid brand – inventering av tre angreppssätt

Three approaches for modelling evacuation in the event of fire were studied based on existing computer programs. The programs included in the study were ERM, EVACNET4, STEPS, buildingEXODUS and SIMULEX. However, only some aspects of buildingEXODUS were examined. The three approaches, called network models (ERM and EVACNET4), gridmodels (STEPS and buildingEXOUDUS) and particle models (SIMULEX) differ in the way movement is modelled. In the study it was examined how movement of people in the building, through openings and in stairs can be modelled for the studied approaches. It was also investigated how high population densities can be taken into account and how a delay period before movement can be incorporated in the models. The pros and cons associated with the three approaches are highlighted in the present report. I addition, recommendations concerning the design of future computer programs for simulating evacuation are presented.