Design of circulation diagrams in macro-scale level based on human movement behavior modeling

This paper demonstrates a computer-based design approach that is used for the generation of circulation diagrams, and the spatial organization of functional areas in macro-scale level. The paper introduces a computer model that simulates the human movement behavior in real time and in parallel, based on simple rules of interaction between particles. This is called a ‘virtual force’ model, since the interaction between particles, and hence human movement behavior modeling, is achieved by using various forces that are acting upon each particle. Any changes on the rules of interaction can produce different results, allowing architects to investigate various design possibilities and study the movement behavior in different case studies. In this paper the idea of modeling such behavior is investigated and developed further, in order for it to be used for the design of circulation systems, and to suggest solutions to problems that occur in public areas of cities.