Abstract:

In order to realize high-efficiency evacuation in public spaces, the layout optimization method of the evacuation guidance signage system was investigated. The information demand and candidate signage locations were abstracted accurately based on the size of the pedestrian's body and signage. The optimization-based layout design model of the evacuation guidance signage system was built from the perspective of safety and economy. A three-region integration-based model was established to model the interaction between pedestrians and signage by analyzing the influencing factors on human cognition, such as obstacles, the field of view, letter size and direction-decision behavior. In order to solve the proposed model and validate its effectiveness, the solution algorithm was proposed based on the orientation discretization and the evacuation simulation model was built by considering the interaction between pedestrians and signage. The model was validated by the simulation and model comparison results. The results show that the evacuation signage layout plan including optimal number, location, orientation and letter size can be produced by our model because much more factors are incorporated into the interaction between pedestrians and signage and the plan resulting from the proposed model can realize high-efficiency and stable crowd evacuation. The effects of letter size and the following probability of pedestrians during evacuation on the optimal number of signs are evaluated by sensitive analysis.

Key words: three-region integration, public space, guidance signage, layout optimization, evacuation simulation