Simulation of pedestrian dynamics using a two-dimensional cellular automaton

We propose a two-dimensional cellular automaton model to simulate pedestria n traffic. It is a nu (max) = 1 model with exclusion statistics and paralle l dynamics. Long-range interactions between the pedestrians are mediated by a so-called floor field which modifies the transition rates to neighbourin g cells. This field, which can be discrete or continuous, is subject to dif fusion and decay. Furthermore it can be modified by the motion of the pedes trians. Therefore, the model uses an idea similar to chemotaxis, but with p edestrians following a virtual rather than a chemical trace, Our main goal is to show that the introduction of such a floor field is sufficient to mod el collective effects and self-organization encountered in pedestrian dynam ics, e.g. lane formation in counterflow through a large corridor. As an app lication we also present simulations of the evacuation of a large room with reduced visibility, e.g. due to failure of lights or smoke. (C) 2001 Elsev ier Science B.V. All rights reserved.