Microsimulation assignment model for multidirectional pedestrian movement in congested facilities

Frequent pedestrian casualties in crowded facilities have brought increasing attention to the study of pedestrian dynamics in such facilities. In this paper, a microsimulation assignment model for multidirectional pedestriain movement in crowds is presented. The model attempts to overcome many limitations of existing models by incorporating various pedestrian behavior rules under a particular set of situations. It also adopts a cellular automata discrete system that allows detailed representation of pedestrians' walkways and movement areas. The model is applied to the "mataf" system, which is located at the main prayer hall of the holy noble mosque known as Al-Haram Al-Shareef Mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. A set of simulation experiments is designed to illustrate use of the model to study the performance of the mataf system by consideration of different operational conditions as well as different pilgrim behavior rules.