A systematic comparison of model predictions produced by the buildingExodus evacuation model and the Tsukuba Pavilion evacuation data

In this article, the buildingEXODUS (V1.1) evacuation model is described and discussed and attempts at qualitative and quantitative model validation are presented. The data set used for the validation is the Tsukuba pavilion evacuation data. This data set is of particular interest as the evacuation was influenced by external conditions, namely inclement weather. As part of the validation exercise, the sensitivity of the buildingEXODUS predictions to a range of variables and conditions is examined, including: exit flow capacity, occupant response times, and the impact of external conditions on the developing evacuation. The buildingEXODUS evacuation model was found to produce good qualitative and quantitative agreement with the experimental data.