An evacuation simulator for pedestrian dynamics based on the Social Force Model

TL;DR

This paper introduces SiCoBioNa, an open-source evacuation simulator based on the Social Force Model, designed to realistically simulate pedestrian dynamics and aid in evacuation planning through an intuitive interface.

Contribution

The paper presents a modular, user-friendly simulation tool that captures individual interactions and spatial constraints in pedestrian evacuations, enhancing research and safety planning.

Findings

Provides realistic pedestrian evacuation simulations

Enables analysis of spatial configurations and interactions

Offers an extensible platform for research and planning

Abstract

The evacuation of pedestrians from enclosed spaces represents a key problem in safety engineering and infrastructure design. Analyzing the collective dynamics that emerge during evacuation processes requires simulation tools capable of capturing individual interactions and spatial constraints realistically. In this work, we present \textit{SiCoBioNa}, an open-source evacuation simulator based on the Social Force Model (SFM). The software provides an intuitive graphical interface that allows users to configure pedestrian properties, spatial geometries, and initial conditions without requiring prior expertise in numerical modeling techniques. The SFM framework enables the representation of goal-oriented motion, interpersonal interactions, and interactions with fixed obstacles. The simulator generates both quantitative data and visual outputs, facilitating the analysis of evacuation dynamics and the evaluation of different spatial configurations. Due to its modular and extensible design, \textit{SiCoBioNa} serves as a reproducible research tool for studies on pedestrian dynamics providing practical support for evacuation planning.