Human flow estimation system, human flow estimation device, human flow estimation method, and program

Abstract

To easily perform human flow estimation.SOLUTION: A human flow estimation system includes: a human flow estimation unit that performs human flow estimation based on input data based on an oriented graph connecting a plurality of points in an institution in a direction in which people flow to represent a traffic line and setting information about a plurality of parameters related to a human flow at each of the points; an institution model generation unit that generates a three-dimensional model of the institution; a data acquisition unit that acquires institution data including the three-dimensional model of the institution and point data indicating the plurality of points in the institution in the three-dimensional model; a component providing unit that for each of the plurality of points, generates a component in which setting of at least some of the plurality of parameters can be set by a user operation and causes a display unit to display each component; and an input data generation unit that generates input data to be input to the human flow estimation unit based on the setting information about the parameters set by a user operation on each displayed component and the institution data acquired by the data acquisition unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pedestrian flow estimation system, a pedestrian flow estimation device, a pedestrian flow estimation method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] There is an increasing number of cases where it is required to confirm the validity of a plan through pedestrian flow analysis during the bidding or the initial design stage of large facilities (such as buildings) like stadiums. Therefore, for designers, there is a need for an environment where they can quickly conduct a rough study including pedestrian flow while studying the plan. For example, many commercially available pedestrian flow simulation softwares are based on a method using a multi-agent system (MAS: Multi Agent System) (see, for example, Patent Document 1), which are expensive and difficult to handle, and are not suitable for the study in the initial design stage.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] On the other hand, there is also pedestrian flow simulation software that uses a relatively simple evaluation method based on a calculation method in an evacuation safety verification method, but it is not commercially available. However, due to the know-how of constructing a calculation model from the scenario setting of the simulation and the difficulty of reading the calculation results from numerical values or graphs, etc., it was necessary to commission external simulation specialists (such as consultants) for study and evaluation each time. Thus, it was difficult for the designer himself / herself to perform pedestrian flow simulation (pedestrian flow estimation) relatively easily in the study at the initial design stage.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and one of its objects is to provide a pedestrian flow estimation system, a pedestrian flow estimation device, a pedestrian flow estimation method, and a program that can easily estimate the pedestrian flow.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, a pedestrian flow estimation system according to an aspect of the present invention includes a pedestrian flow estimation unit that estimates the pedestrian flow in the facility based on input data based on a directed graph representing a traffic flow by connecting a plurality of points in the facility in the direction in which people flow and setting information of a plurality of parameters related to the pedestrian flow at each point in the facility, a facility model generation unit that generates a 3D model of the facility, a data acquisition unit that acquires facility data including the 3D model of the facility generated by the facility model generation unit and point data indicating a plurality of points in the facility in the 3D model, a component providing unit that generates a component for each of a plurality of points in the facility, the setting of at least a part of the plurality of parameters being settable by a user operation, and causes each component generated for each point to be displayed on a display unit, and an input data generation unit that generates the input data to be input to the pedestrian flow estimation unit based on the setting information of the parameters set based on the user operation on each component displayed on the display unit and the facility data acquired by the data acquisition unit.

[0007] Also, a pedestrian flow estimation device according to one aspect of the present invention is a pedestrian flow estimation device that uses a pedestrian flow estimation tool for estimating the pedestrian flow in the facility based on input data based on a directed graph representing a traffic flow by connecting a plurality of points in the facility in the direction in which people flow and setting information of a plurality of parameters related to the pedestrian flow at each point in the facility, the device including: a data acquisition unit that acquires facility data including a three-dimensional model of the facility and point data indicating a plurality of points in the facility in the three-dimensional model; a component providing unit that generates, for each of the plurality of points in the facility, a component that enables setting of at least some of the plurality of parameters by a user operation, and causes each generated component to be displayed on a display unit; and an input data generation unit that generates the input data to be input to the pedestrian flow estimation tool based on the setting information of the parameters set based on a user operation on each component displayed on the display unit and the facility data acquired by the data acquisition unit.

[0008] Further, a pedestrian flow estimation method in a pedestrian flow estimation system according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a step in which a pedestrian flow estimation unit estimates the pedestrian flow in the facility based on input data based on a directed graph representing a traffic flow by connecting a plurality of points in the facility in the direction in which people flow and setting information of a plurality of parameters related to the pedestrian flow at each point in the facility; a step in which a facility model generation unit generates a three-dimensional model of the facility; a step in which a data acquisition unit acquires facility data including the three-dimensional model of the facility generated by the facility model generation unit and point data indicating a plurality of points in the facility in the three-dimensional model; a step in which a component providing unit generates, for each of the plurality of points in the facility, a component that enables setting of at least some of the plurality of parameters by a user operation, and causes each generated component to be displayed on a display unit; and a step in which an input data generation unit generates the input data to be input to the pedestrian flow estimation unit based on the setting information of the parameters set based on a user operation on each component displayed on the display unit and the facility data acquired by the data acquisition unit.

[0009] Further, a program according to an aspect of the present invention causes a computer, as a crowd flow estimation device using a crowd flow estimation tool that estimates the crowd flow in the facility based on input data based on a directed graph representing a traffic flow by connecting a plurality of points in the facility in the direction in which people flow and setting information of a plurality of parameters related to the crowd flow at each point in the facility, to function as: a data acquisition unit that acquires facility data including a three-dimensional model of the facility and point data indicating a plurality of points in the facility in the three-dimensional model; a component providing unit that generates a component for each of a plurality of points in the facility, the setting of at least a part of the plurality of parameters being configurable by a user operation, and causes the display unit to display each component generated for each point; and an input data generation unit that generates the input data to be input to the crowd flow estimation tool based on the setting information of the parameters set based on the user operation on each component displayed on the display unit and the facility data acquired by the data acquisition unit.

Effects of the Invention

[0010] According to the above aspect of the present invention, it is possible to easily estimate the crowd flow.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. [Overview of Pedestrian Flow Estimation System] The pedestrian flow estimation system according to the present embodiment is a system that simulates the pedestrian flow in a large facility such as a stadium using a pedestrian flow simulation tool, and is a system suitable for use by designers in the consideration at the initial design stage.

[0013] There are methods that use a multi-agent system (MAS) in pedestrian flow simulation tools. However, they are expensive and have a high computational load, so they are not necessarily suitable for consideration in the initial design stage. Therefore, here, tools for experts used by external simulation specialists (such as consultants) are mainly used. Tools for experts have advantages such as a lower computational load compared to, for example, MAS, the ability to quickly conduct wide-area studies and discover locations where congestion occurs, and the ability to estimate the movement volume and movement time of a large number of people (for example, ~tens of thousands of people). However, since it is necessary to repeatedly simulate several patterns of many parameters such as route setting, the width, position, and number of openings, and the width, position, and number of passageways, using empirical values provided by experts, it has been difficult for designers to use. In addition, when experts assume patterns, due to cost and time limitations, they have to use a small number of patterns, which may be insufficient for design consideration and may be used for retrospective justification.

[0014] Therefore, the pedestrian flow estimation system according to this embodiment is configured so that designers can easily use pedestrian flow simulation tools for experts. Since designers can consider the design policy by themselves assuming the design intention and patterns and conducting trial and error, it can be utilized as the original simulation for realizing the design intention. In addition, experts can cooperate with designers and can also provide advice and complement on pattern assumptions that more highly reflect the design intention and develop them for detailed consideration.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of processing in the crowd flow estimation system 1 according to the present embodiment. The crowd flow estimation system 1 generates a 3D model of a facility designed by a designer using 3D CAD (Computer Aided Design) (step S1). The facility is mainly a building, but also includes external structures (doors, outer walls, parking lots, approaches to the building, etc.) or a site around the building. In the following description, the 3D model of the facility is referred to as a "facility model". As described above, the "facility model" may include not only the 3D model of the building itself as a facility, but also 3D models of external structures, sites, etc. Further, the data of the facility model (hereinafter referred to as "facility data") includes data of the 3D model related to the facility (building, external structure, site, etc.) and point data indicating points within the facility. The points within the facility are at least some of a plurality of points set by the designer for design consideration, and are, for example, openings (entrances and exits), passages, branch points of passages, stairs, large spaces, etc.

[0016] In a conventional crowd flow simulation tool for experts, there is one that reads a 2D drawing of a building as an image, adjusts the scale, and manually inputs all the points within the building where people move when performing a crowd flow simulation. However, since the crowd flow estimation system 1 performs a crowd flow simulation using the facility data generated in step S1, it is possible to save the labor of input compared to the conventional method. For example, when performing a crowd flow simulation at the design consideration stage, the crowd flow estimation system 1 does not need to input again the points within the facility where people move into a 2D drawing or the like, and can be directly input and set to the facility model that already exists in the design process. Therefore, it is possible to save the labor of input compared to the conventional method. Further, since the crowd flow estimation system 1 provides a UI (User Interface) that enables efficient input of position information and parameters, and is configured to enable duplication (copy & paste) of the input position information and parameter settings, etc., it is possible to save the labor of input compared to the conventional method.

[0017] Here, although it is the designer who creates the facility model using 3D CAD, the person who performs the pedestrian flow simulation may be the designer or an operator other than the designer. Since the person using the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 is not limited to the designer, hereinafter, the person using the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 will be described as a "user" including both the designer and those other than the designer in the expression.

[0018] Next, when the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 acquires the facility data designed using 3D CAD, it generates a file (input file) of the input data to be input to the pedestrian flow simulation tool (step S2). For example, the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 provides the user with an input method using a UI (User Interface) that is easy to input the information necessary for the pedestrian flow simulation even if the user is not an expert in simulation, and generates an input file based on the information input by the user and the facility data. This input method will be described in detail later.

[0019] Then, the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 inputs the input file generated in step S2 to the pedestrian flow simulation tool, and outputs a file (output file) of the output data of the pedestrian flow estimation result by the pedestrian flow simulation tool (step S3).

[0020] The pedestrian flow estimation system 1 visualizes the pedestrian flow estimation result based on the output file of the pedestrian flow estimation result simulated using the pedestrian flow simulation tool in step S3. For example, the output file output from the conventional pedestrian flow simulation tool is simply a CSV file in which data is listed or a simple graph of the data, so it is difficult to understand and data processing is required. Therefore, the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 visualizes and displays the pedestrian flow estimation result on the facility model so that it is easy for the user to understand. A specific example of this visualization of the pedestrian flow estimation result will be described in detail later.

[0021] [Configuration of Pedestrian Flow Estimation System] Hereinafter, the configuration of the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 will be described in detail. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 according to the present embodiment. The illustrated pedestrian flow estimation system 1 includes a facility model generation unit 11, a pedestrian flow analysis support unit 12, a storage unit 13, and a pedestrian flow simulation tool 14. For example, the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 may be configured such that one computer device executes various programs. Here, a configuration will be described in which one computer device serves as the pedestrian flow estimation device 10 and includes the above-described facility model generation unit 11, pedestrian flow analysis support unit 12, storage unit 13, and pedestrian flow simulation tool 14.

[0022] The storage unit 13 stores programs for each part of the pedestrian flow estimation device 10 to perform processing, data necessary for the processing, data generated by the processing, and the like. The storage unit 13 may be a storage device (storage) provided in the pedestrian flow estimation device 10 or an external storage device connected to the pedestrian flow estimation device 10. For example, the storage unit 13 includes a facility data storage unit 131, an input file storage unit 132, an output file storage unit 133, and the like.

[0023] The facility model generation unit 11 is a functional configuration realized by executing 3D CAD software. For example, the facility model generation unit 11 generates a facility model (3D model of the facility) according to the operation of a user (designer), and stores facility data including the generated facility model and location data within the facility in the facility data storage unit 131.

[0024] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the facility model according to the present embodiment. This Figure 3 shows an example in which the facility model generated by the facility model generation unit 11 is displayed in the window W1 of 3D CAD. The facility model shown in this figure is a 3D model of an arena with a capacity of approximately 5000 people. Since it is a 3D model, it can be displayed with the viewing point changed in any direction.

[0025] Returning to FIG. 2, the pedestrian flow analysis support unit 12 has a functional configuration that can be realized by visual programming executed in cooperation with, for example, 3D CAD software that realizes the functions of the facility model generation unit 11. For example, this visual programming is a plugin that operates on 3D CAD software.

[0026] The pedestrian flow analysis support unit 12 includes a facility data acquisition unit 121, a component provision unit 122, an input data generation unit 123, an output data acquisition unit 124, and a result visualization unit 125. The facility data acquisition unit 121, the component provision unit 122, and the input data generation unit 123 perform processing until an input file to be input to the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 is generated. The output data acquisition unit 124 and the result visualization unit 125 perform processing to visualize the pedestrian flow estimation result from the output file of the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14.

[0027] First, a configuration for performing processing until an input file to be input to the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 is generated will be described. The facility data acquisition unit 121 acquires facility data from the facility data storage unit 131. For example, the facility data acquisition unit 121 acquires, from the facility data storage unit 131, facility data including a 3D model of the facility generated by the facility model generation unit 11 and point data indicating a plurality of points within the facility in the 3D model.

[0028] Note that the facility data acquisition unit 121 may acquire facility data generated using 3D CAD software of another computer device by communicating and connecting with the external computer device, or may acquire it via a storage medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory.

[0029] The component providing unit 122 provides components that enable a user to easily set a plurality of parameters related to the flow of people as a UI for facilitating input to the crowd flow simulation tool 14 even for those who are not experts in simulation. The plurality of parameters related to the flow of people are input parameters to be input to the crowd flow simulation tool 14 and parameters related to the input parameters. As an example, the plurality of parameters related to the flow of people include walking speed, male-female ratio, space scale, usage, scene, and the like. In each component, the setting of each parameter is provided so that it can be easily set using a pull-down menu or the like.

[0030] For example, among the plurality of parameters related to the flow of people, there are parameters for specifying given conditions when simulating the flow of people in a facility. As the given conditions, for example, parameters such as the usage of the facility, the content of the event held at the facility, the number of visitors, and the target scene (such as entry and exit) are provided so that they can be easily specified using a pull-down menu or the like. Also, at least some of the plurality of parameters related to the flow of people (for example, male-female ratio, walking speed, stopping behavior, and branching ratio of route selection) are set as "parameter sets" associated with the parameters for specifying the above-mentioned given conditions, and default values (initial values) corresponding to the specified given conditions are set. For example, when the usage of the facility is specified, typical (standard) values of the male-female ratio and walking speed are set as initial values according to the usage. This enables users who are not simulation experts to easily perform initial settings when conducting crowd flow simulations.

[0031] With such a set of components and parameters, it is possible to set parameters to an appropriate degree for a preliminary study in the initial stage of design even without specialized knowledge of crowd flow simulation.

[0032] For example, the component providing unit 122 generates a component that summarizes at least some of the plurality of parameters (parameters required for that location) for each of a plurality of locations within the facility. Then, the component providing unit 122 causes the display unit 17 to display the components generated for each location.

[0033] Based on the setting information of the parameters set based on the user's operations on each component displayed on the display unit 17 and the facility data acquired by the facility data acquisition unit 121, the input data generation unit 123 generates input data to be input to the crowd flow simulation tool 14, and stores the input file of the generated input data in the input file storage unit 132.

[0034] Hereinafter, the functions of the crowd flow analysis support unit 12 realized by visual programming are referred to as "crowd flow analysis support tools", and the window in which the components provided by the component providing unit 122 are displayed is referred to as the window of the crowd flow analysis support tool.

[0035] [Example of UI at input time] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the UI at input time according to the present embodiment. This figure shows an example in which a 3D CAD window W1 and a window W2 of the crowd flow analysis support tool are displayed on the display screen of the display unit 17 of the crowd flow estimation device 10.

[0036] A facility model is displayed in the 3D CAD window W1. Here, a view from above of the 3D model of the facility (arena) shown in FIG. 3 is displayed. The white circles (〇) and black circles (●) displayed in the facility model indicate each location in the facility such as building openings (entrances and exits), passages, branch points of passages, stairs, and large spaces set by the user (designer) for design consideration.

[0037] In the window W2 of the crowd flow analysis support tool, a plurality of components CP generated for each location in the facility are displayed. The components CP for each of the plurality of locations can have their parameters set for each location in response to operations on the display screen.

[0038] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a component according to the present embodiment. The component shown in this figure is an example of an input component for inputting (setting) input parameters to be input to the crowd flow simulation tool 14 for each location.

[0039] Component CP1 is an input component for the generation location (start location of movement), and is a UI for setting parameters such as floor number, floor height, location name, location, number of movers, walking speed, generation time width, delay in movement start time, and branching rate. Component CP2 is an input component for the bottleneck, and is a UI for setting parameters such as location name, location, location information, passage width, flow coefficient, distance length, slope correction rate, and branching rate. A bottleneck is a location where a large influence on the crowd flow is assumed, such as an opening (entrance / exit) or each location of the longitudinal passage of the spectator seats. Component CP3 is an input component for the branching location, and is a UI for setting parameters such as location name, location, location information, distance length, slope correction rate, and branching rate. Component CP4 is an input component for the staircase location, and is a UI for setting parameters such as upper floor location name, lower floor location name, upper floor location, lower floor location, floor height, staircase distance, landing distance, location information, outflow floor, staircase walking speed, passage width, flow coefficient, distance length, and branching rate. Component CP5 is an analysis component for determining the goal location, and is a UI for setting parameters such as location name, location, location information, and distance length.

[0040] In the window W2 of the crowd flow analysis support tool, by arranging components for each location, it becomes possible to set parameters for each location. The components arranged and displayed in the window W2 can be operated (copied & pasted) by the user for duplication. Since the duplicated components can be used as components for other locations, it is possible to save the labor of arranging components for multiple locations having the same parameters.

[0041] Also, by connecting the components for each location arranged and displayed in the window W2, it is possible to set a movement route along which people move within the facility. For example, when the user operates to connect the components displayed on the display unit 17, the input data generation unit 123 sets, as a movement route along which people move within the facility, a route connecting the locations of the connected components, and includes the set movement route in the input data. A movement direction is set for this movement route according to the connection order of each component. For example, the movement route along which people move within the facility is displayed in the window W2 as a directed graph representing a flow line by connecting a plurality of locations within the facility in the direction in which people flow.

[0042] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a method for setting a movement route of a person according to the present embodiment. As shown in this figure, by connecting the component CP1A at the location A (generation location) and the component CP2B at the location B (bottleneck) displayed in the window W2, and connecting the component CP2B at the location B and the component CP2C at the location C (bottleneck), it is possible to set the route from the location A via the location B to the location C as a movement route of a person.

[0043] For example, in the 3D CAD window W1 shown in FIG. 4, the white circles (〇) and black circles (●) displayed in the facility model indicate the locations set for design consideration, but the lines connecting the white circles (〇) or the black circles (●) indicate the movement routes set by the connection of the above components.

[0044] Also, by connecting the input components in order from the input component at the occurrence point and finally connecting the component CP5 at the goal point, the setting of the movement route of a person is completed. That is, the input data generation unit 123 sets the route passing through each point from the input component at the occurrence point to the input component at the goal point as the movement route of a person, and generates an input file to be input to the crowd flow simulation tool 14.

[0045] In this way, in the present embodiment, since the location data of each location in the facility can be directly input and set in the facility data, and the movement route can also be set by connecting components, there is no need to re-enter the locations and movement routes in the facility on the drawing as in the prior art, and the labor required for performing the crowd flow simulation tool 14 can be saved.

[0046] Also, for the parameters of each component arranged in the window W2, for example, the value of the parameter can be set by connecting a numerical component for setting a numerical value. Also, when it is desired to set the same parameter to the same numerical value for a plurality of components having the same parameter, it is also possible to set them collectively. For example, the component providing unit 122 provides a batch setting component (an example of batch setting means) that can collectively set common parameters among the components displayed on the display unit 17.

[0047] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a parameter batch setting component according to the present embodiment. For example, as a batch setting component, a slider component SL for changing the numerical values of the parameters of the destination component with a slider is prepared. The illustrated slider component SL has a slider for changing (setting) the value of the passage width and a slider for changing (setting) the value of the walking speed. In this figure, the passage width is set to 1.0 m, and the walking speed is set to 0.9 m. Note that the slider component SL may have only a slider for one type of parameter, or may have sliders for two or more parameters. When the slider component SL has sliders for a plurality of parameters, the types of parameters are arbitrary.

[0048] In the illustrated example, the passage width slider of the slider component SL is connected to each of the component CP2A, the component CP2B, and the component CP2C. Thus, by changing the passage width slider of the slider component SL, the passage width values of the destination components CP2A, CP2B, and CP2C can be changed in batch.

[0049] Also, by setting the values of the parameters of the component with a width, it is possible to change to a plurality of types of values and perform a crowd flow simulation. For example, the component providing unit 122 provides a plurality of setting components (an example of a plurality of setting means) capable of setting a plurality of types of values for one parameter.

[0050] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a plurality of setting components of parameters according to the present embodiment. The illustrated plurality of setting components VCP1 is prepared as a component for setting a plurality of types of passage widths at intervals of 0.5 m from 1.5 m to 3.0 m. The plurality of setting components VCP1 is connected to the passage width of the component CP2B at point B. Therefore, four types of values of 1.5 m, 2.0 m, 2.5 m, and 3.0 m are set for the passage width of the component CP2A at point B.

[0051] In addition, the plurality of setting components VCP2 are prepared as components for setting multiple types of passage widths at intervals of 0.2 m from 1.0 m to 2.0 m. The plurality of setting components VCP2 are connected to the passage width of the component CP2C at point C. Therefore, six types of values of 1.0 m, 1.2 m, 1.4 m, 1.6 m, 1.8 m, and 2.0 m are set for the passage width of the component CP2C at point C.

[0052] When a plurality of types of settings are made for one parameter, the input data generation unit 123 generates input data corresponding to each setting, and generates an input file so as to cause the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 to perform pedestrian flow estimation for all settings. For example, when a plurality of types of settings are made for one parameter, the input data generation unit 123 generates an input file for each setting (set value) of the parameter, and stores the generated plurality of input files in the input file storage unit 132.

[0053] Here, the input data generation unit 123 generates an input file of input data to be input to the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 based on the parameters input (set) using the input components provided by the component providing unit 122 (see FIGS. 5 and 6 to 8). However, the processing performed by the input data generation unit 123 is also performed based on the components provided by the component providing unit 122. Hereinafter, the component used to generate an input file to be input to the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 for the input component for inputting (setting) a parameter is referred to as an analysis component.

[0054] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an analysis component according to the present embodiment. Component CP6 is an analysis component for creating an input file to be input to the crowd flow simulation tool 14. For example, by connecting component CP6 behind component CP5 at the goal point, the input data generation unit 123 generates input data necessary for estimating the crowd flow on the movement path up to component CP5, and stores the input file of the generated input data in the input file storage unit 132. For example, component CP6 can set the save destination folder name, goal point information, calculation end time, granularity of output data, calculation execution, and the like.

[0055] Component CP7 is an analysis component for causing the crowd flow simulation tool 14 to perform crowd flow estimation (crowd flow analysis). Component CP7 can be set with the save destination folder name for the result of the crowd flow analysis, graph writing, analysis execution, and the like. The input data generation unit 123 reads out the input file generated by component CP6 based on the settings of component CP7, and inputs the read input file to the crowd flow simulation tool 14, thereby causing the crowd flow simulation tool 14 to execute crowd flow estimation (crowd flow analysis). In addition, when the input data generation unit 123 inputs a plurality of generated input files to the crowd flow simulation tool 14 when a plurality of types of settings are made for one parameter, the input data generation unit 123 performs batch processing of inputting the plurality of generated input files to the crowd flow simulation tool 14 sequentially in a lump.

[0056] The crowd flow simulation tool 14 performs an estimation of the crowd flow within a facility based on input data (input file) that is based on a directed graph representing traffic lines by connecting multiple points within the facility in the direction in which people flow, and setting information for a plurality of parameters related to the crowd flow at each point within the facility. For example, when an input file read from the file storage unit 132 by the input data generation unit 123 is input based on the setting information (such as the location of the input file) of the above-described analysis component (for example, component CP7), the crowd flow simulation tool 14 performs an estimation of the crowd flow within the facility based on the input input file. Also, when a plurality of input files are sequentially input in batch processing by the input data generation unit 123, the crowd flow simulation tool 14 sequentially performs an estimation of the crowd flow within the facility for each of the plurality of input files. As described above, although the crowd flow simulation tool 14 is a crowd flow simulation tool for experts, even users other than experts (for example, designers) can easily use it by generating an input file using the above-described crowd flow analysis support tool.

[0057] For example, when an input file generated by the input data generation unit 123 is input, the crowd flow simulation tool 14 performs an estimation of the crowd flow within the facility based on the input data within the input file (location information indicating a plurality of points within the facility, setting information for a plurality of parameters that affect the crowd flow for each of the plurality of points, etc.). Then, the crowd flow simulation tool 14 stores the output file of the crowd flow estimation result in the output file storage unit 133.

[0058] Note that the type of the crowd flow simulation tool 14 is not particularly limited, and any crowd flow simulation tool can be used by the crowd flow analysis support unit 12 to make the formats of the input file and the output file compatible.

[0059] [Example of Visualization of Crowd Flow Estimation Result] Next, a configuration for performing a process of visualizing and displaying the crowd flow estimation result from the output file of the crowd flow simulation tool 14 in the crowd flow estimation device 10 will be described.

[0060] Returning to FIG. 2, the output data acquisition unit 124 acquires the output file of the crowd flow estimation result output from the crowd flow simulation tool 14 from the output file storage unit 133. The result visualization unit 125 visualizes and outputs the crowd flow estimation result based on the output file acquired by the output data acquisition unit 124. For example, the result visualization unit 125 visualizes the crowd flow estimation result and displays it on the display unit 17.

[0061] Here, the process of the output data acquisition unit 124 acquiring the output file of the crowd flow estimation result from the output file storage unit 133, and the process of the result visualization unit 125 visualizing the crowd flow estimation result and displaying it on the display unit 17 are executed by arranging components for executing respective processes in the window W2 of the crowd flow analysis support tool. For example, a component for designating the file name of the output file (hereinafter referred to as the "output component") is prepared, and by the user arranging this output component in the window W2, the output data acquisition unit 124 reads and acquires the output file with the designated file name from the output file storage unit 133.

[0062] In addition, various components for visualizing the crowd flow estimation result (hereinafter referred to as "visualization components") are prepared according to the location to be visualized, the display content when visualized, the purpose of analysis / analysis, and the like.

[0063] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the visualization component according to the present embodiment. The component CP8 is a visualization component for setting to visualize the analysis result of the bottleneck point. For example, the component CP8 can be set with analysis result data, goal point name, etc. as input parameters. In addition, the component CP8 can be set with passing time, stagnation time, maximum stagnation number, bottleneck point name, bottleneck point position, etc. as parameters to be visualized and displayed (output) with the analysis result of the bottleneck point.

[0064] Component CP9 is a visualization component that makes settings for reading and visualizing the pedestrian flow estimation results (analysis results) by the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14. For example, component CP9 can be set with analysis result data, target evacuation time, etc. as input parameters. Also, component CP9 can be set with parameters such as maximum movement completion time, movement completion time for each goal, goal location name, goal location, and analysis result data as parameters to be visualized and displayed (output) at the goal location's analysis results.

[0065] Then, when the user places this visualization component in window W2, the result visualization unit 125 visualizes the pedestrian flow estimation results according to the content of the visualization component based on the output file acquired by the output data acquisition unit 124 and displays them on the display unit 17.

[0066] Note that the provision (display on the display unit 17) and setting of the output component and the visualization component are performed by the component provision unit 122 based on the user's operations on window W2, similar to the input component and the analysis component.

[0067] Next, an example of visualizing the pedestrian flow estimation results based on the pedestrian flow will be described. For example, the result visualization unit 125 associates the pedestrian flow estimation results by the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 with the locations in the facility and displays them on the display unit 17.

[0068] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a first example of visualizing the pedestrian flow estimation results according to this embodiment. This FIG. 11 shows an enlarged view of a part of the view from above the facility model shown in FIG. 4 in window W1, and is an example in which the evacuation time as the pedestrian flow estimation result is associated with the location (exit) on the facility model and displayed.

[0069] Window W2 shows a part of an example of a visualization setting component that is connected to a visualization component to set parameters of the visualization component. The target evacuation time (seconds) is the setting of the target time for 5,000 people in the arena stands to exit the arena. Here, the target evacuation time (seconds) is set to 900 (seconds). Also, selections such as setting whether to highlight bottlenecks up to the top 〇〇 with a large number of staying people, and setting whether to highlight bottlenecks where stays occur (display switching between display and non-display) are possible.

[0070] In window W1, the "896", "953", and "954" described at three locations surrounded by a wavy ellipse on the facility model indicate the estimated results of the evacuation time (seconds) for 5,000 people in the arena stands to exit from each location (each exit). For example, the evacuation time (seconds) of each location is displayed so as to be distinguishable and visible depending on whether it meets the target evacuation time (seconds). As an example, "896" that meets the target evacuation time (seconds) is displayed in black, and "953" and "954" that do not meet the target evacuation time (seconds) are displayed in highlight (white characters in this figure). Note that the display format is an example and is not limited to this.

[0071] Also, in window W1, the display visualizing the crowd flow estimation result on the facility model can be confirmed in the 3D view. Figure 12 is a diagram showing a second example of the visualization of the crowd flow estimation result according to this embodiment. This Figure 12 shows an example in which the display of window W1 in Figure 11 is a 3D view display. The result visualization unit 125 can change and display the facility model that displays the crowd flow estimation result (for example, the estimation result of the evacuation time) in association with it from viewpoints at various angles in the 3D view display.

[0072] Here, as described with reference to FIG. 8, when multiple types of values are set for a single parameter in the input data within the input file generated by the input data generation unit 123, the crowd flow simulation tool 14 performs a brute-force search of all combinations of settings and then narrows down the optimal solutions. The result visualization unit 125 visualizes and displays the crowd flow estimation results for all the above combinations.

[0073] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of brute-force analysis of parameters and visualization of narrowing down according to the present embodiment. In the example shown in this figure, multiple types of values of each parameter such as the passage width at each location (passage width B at location B, passage width C at location C, etc.), movement completion time, area of the second-floor stand, and maximum number of occupants are set in the input file. The graph shows the results of evaluating crowd flow estimation using the crowd flow simulation tool 14 by brute-force for all combinations of the values of these parameters. That is, the crowd flow estimation results for all combinations of the values of each parameter are displayed in a list. Therefore, the crowd flow estimation device 10 can provide objective judgment materials when a user (for example, a designer) designs regarding crowd flow, and the user can search for the optimal solution from the comprehensively presented crowd flow estimation results.

[0074] Next, an example of visualizing and displaying the estimation result of the number of occupants in the facility in the crowd flow estimation device 10 will be described. When the result visualization unit 125 associates the crowd flow estimation result with the location in the facility and displays it on the display unit 17, the estimated value of the number of occupants may be associated with the location in the facility and displayed on the display unit 17.

[0075] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a third example of visualization of the crowd flow estimation result according to the present embodiment. This FIG. 14 shows an example in which a part of the view from above the facility model is enlarged and displayed in the window W1, and the number of occupants as the crowd flow estimation result is associated with the location (exit) and displayed on the facility model.

[0076] In window W1, the "283 (persons)" enclosed by the wavy-line ellipse on the facility model is the estimated result of the number of people staying at point P1 (here, the estimated result of the maximum number of people staying). Although point P1 is shown as a representative point, actually point P1 has an area within a predetermined range, and 283 (persons) will stay within that range. By changing the setting of "display the stayable area" among the visualization components displayed in window W2 from "not displayed" to "displayed", the range of point P1 where 283 (persons) can stay can be displayed.

[0077] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a fourth example of the visualization of the people flow estimation result according to the present embodiment. This FIG. 15 is a display example when the setting of "display the stayable area" in window W2 shown in FIG. 14 is changed from "not displayed" to "displayed". In FIG. 15, the result visualization unit 125 displays, in window W1, the range of point P1 where 283 (persons) can stay as a stayable range RG indicated by hatching.

[0078] Here, in the examples shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the estimated value of the number of people staying is displayed as 283 (persons) in numbers. Although the number of people staying can be grasped immediately as a number in numbers, it is difficult to evaluate the validity of the stay (whether the stay is at a non-problematic level). Therefore, when the result visualization unit 125 associates the people flow estimation result with the points within the facility and displays it on the display unit 17, it may arrange and display objects corresponding to the estimated value of the number of people staying in association with the points within the facility.

[0079] For example, by changing the setting of "display people" in window W2 shown in FIG. 15 from "not displayed" to "displayed", the result visualization unit 125 arranges and displays human-shaped objects corresponding to the number (i.e., the number of people) corresponding to the estimated value of the number of people staying in window W1.

[0080] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a fifth example of visualization of the estimated pedestrian flow according to the present embodiment. In this FIG. 16, in window W1, an example is shown in which human-shaped objects corresponding to the estimated values of the number of people staying (that is, the number corresponding to the number of people) are arranged and displayed within the stayable range RG. Here, since a view of the facility model from above is displayed in window W1, the human-shaped objects are also displayed as objects when viewed from above. In this way, by arranging human-shaped objects corresponding to the estimated number of people staying, rather than just numbers, the number of people staying can be visually grasped.

[0081] Here, even if human-shaped objects corresponding to the estimated values of the number of people staying are arranged within the stayable range RG, it is not always the case that the people actually staying are scattered throughout the entire stayable range RG as shown in FIG. 16. For example, it is also expected that when the people staying gather towards the exit, the population density becomes higher and it becomes difficult for people to move.

[0082] Therefore, when the result visualization unit 125 arranges and displays human-shaped objects corresponding to the estimated values of the number of people staying at points within the facility, the density of the human-shaped objects arranged within the stayable range RG (that is, the population density within the stayable range RG) can be selected and displayed for confirmation (evaluation). Here, the "service level", which is an index of the comfort of the walking space, is evaluated in six levels from A to F according to the population density within the stayable range RG. Service level A has the lowest population density, and service level F has the highest population density. For example, the component providing unit 122 provides a visualization component that enables setting of the service level.

[0083] Based on the setting of the service level among the visualization components displayed in window W2, the result visualization unit 125 arranges human-shaped objects within the stayable range RG at a density (population density) corresponding to the set service level. For example, in the example shown in this FIG. 16, the service level among the visualization components displayed in window W2 is set to B.

[0084] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a sixth example of visualization of the estimated pedestrian flow according to the present embodiment. This FIG. 17 is a display example when the service level setting is changed from B to F (increasing the population density) in the window W2 shown in FIG. 16. The result visualization unit 125 arranges and displays human-shaped objects with a high population density within the stayable range RG as compared to the display example shown in FIG. 16. A user (for example, a designer) can evaluate the validity of the estimated number of staying people (whether the level of staying is a problem) by changing the service level.

[0085] Further, the result visualization unit 125 may change the display within the window W1 shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 to a 3D view display and change the viewpoint of the 3D view display to the eye level.

[0086] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a seventh example of visualization of the estimated pedestrian flow according to the present embodiment. This FIG. 18 is a display example in which the facility model in the window W1 shown in FIG. 16 is displayed in a 3D view, and human-shaped objects corresponding to the number of staying people are displayed at the eye level with the population density at service level B.

[0087] Further, FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an eighth example of visualization of the estimated pedestrian flow according to the present embodiment. This FIG. 19 is a display example in which the facility model in the window W1 shown in FIG. 17 is displayed in a 3D view, and human-shaped objects corresponding to the number of staying people are displayed at the eye level with the population density at service level F.

[0088] As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, by displaying human-shaped objects corresponding to the number of staying people at the eye level, it is possible to more visually grasp and evaluate the validity of staying (whether the level of staying is a problem).

[0089] Note that in the 3D view display, since the result visualization unit 125 can change the display of the facility model to viewpoints from various angles, human-shaped objects corresponding to the number of staying people can be displayed not only at the eye level but also from an arbitrary viewpoint angle.

[0090] [Hardware Configuration of Pedestrian Flow Estimation Device] FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the pedestrian flow estimation device 10 according to the present embodiment. The pedestrian flow estimation device 10 is, for example, a computer device, and as a hardware configuration, it includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 110, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 120, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 130, a storage device 140, a communication unit 150, an input unit 160, and an output unit 170.

[0091] The CPU 110 is a processor that executes various processes by executing programs stored in the ROM 130 or the storage device 140. For example, the CPU 110 executes each process by the facility model generation unit 11, the pedestrian flow analysis support unit 12, the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14, etc. shown in FIG. 2.

[0092] The RAM 120 is used as a loading area for programs executed by the CPU 110 or as a working area for writing data used in the processes by the programs.

[0093] The ROM 130 is composed of an electrically rewritable non-volatile memory such as an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) or a flash ROM. For example, at least a part of a system program, programs for executing various processes, etc. are stored in the ROM 130.

[0094] The storage device 140 includes an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. For example, at least a part of a system program, programs for executing various processes, etc. may be stored in the storage device 140. For example, the storage device 140 corresponds to the storage unit 13 shown in FIG. 2 and includes a facility data storage unit 131, an input file storage unit 132, an output file storage unit 133, etc.

[0095] The communication unit 150 is connected to a network via a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or a wired LAN, and performs data communication with an external device (such as the server 20). Further, the communication unit 150 may be provided with a short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and an interface such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) to perform data communication with peripheral devices.

[0096] The input unit 160 includes, for example, input devices such as a keyboard, a touch pad, a touch panel, and a microphone. Further, the input unit 160 may be an imaging device such as a camera. The output unit 170 corresponds to, for example, the display unit 17 shown in FIG. 2. The display unit 17 includes a display device such as a liquid crystal display and an organic EL display. Further, the output unit 170 may be provided with an output device such as a speaker.

[0097] Note that the crowd flow estimation system 1 may be configured by one computer device as the crowd flow estimation device 10, or may be configured by a plurality of computer devices cooperating with each other. Therefore, it may be provided with one or a plurality of the hardware configurations shown in FIG. 20. For example, the crowd flow estimation system 1 may be configured to include two computer devices: a computer device (a computer device that executes 3D CAD software) including at least the facility model generation unit 11, at least the crowd flow analysis support unit 12, and a computer device as a crowd flow estimation device including the crowd flow simulation tool 14. Further, the computer device including the crowd flow analysis support unit 12 and the computer device including the crowd flow simulation tool 14 may be configured as separate computer devices.

[0098] As described above, the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 (an example of a pedestrian flow estimation unit), a facility model generation unit 11, a facility data acquisition unit 121 (an example of a data acquisition unit), a component providing unit 122, and an input data generation unit 123. The pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 estimates the pedestrian flow in the facility based on input data (input file) based on a directed graph representing a flow line by connecting a plurality of points in the facility in the direction in which people flow and setting information of a plurality of parameters related to the pedestrian flow at each point in the facility. The facility model generation unit 11 generates a facility model (3D model of the facility). The facility data acquisition unit 121 acquires facility data including the facility model generated by the facility model generation unit 11 and point data indicating a plurality of points in the facility in the facility model. The component providing unit 122 generates a component for each of a plurality of points in the facility, which enables setting of at least some of the plurality of parameters by a user operation, and causes the display unit 17 to display each component generated for each point. The input data generation unit 123 generates input data (input file) to be input to the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 based on the setting information of the parameters set based on the user operation on each component displayed on the display unit 17 and the facility data acquired by the facility data acquisition unit 121.

[0099] Accordingly, the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 generates input data (input file) to be input to the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 by inputting a plurality of parameters related to the pedestrian flow at each point in the facility from the components displayed on the window screen based on the 3D model of the facility. Therefore, for example, a facility designer can relatively easily estimate the pedestrian flow in the early stage of design without relying on an external professional in simulation (such as a consultant).

[0100] In addition, when the user performs an operation of connecting the components displayed on the display unit 17, the input data generation unit 123 sets the path connecting the locations of the connected components as the path along which people move within the facility, and includes the set path in the input data (input file).

[0101] As a result, the crowd flow estimation system 1 does not need to re-enter the locations and movement paths within the facility on the drawing as in the prior art, and can save the labor required when performing the crowd flow simulation tool 14. Therefore, the crowd flow estimation system 1 can easily perform crowd flow estimation even in a large-scale facility such as an arena with a capacity of thousands of people.

[0102] In addition, the components displayed on the display unit 17 can be operated (copied & pasted) by the user. And the copied components can be used as components at other locations.

[0103] As a result, the crowd flow estimation system 1 can save the labor required when inputting parameters for a large number of locations. Therefore, the crowd flow estimation system 1 can easily perform crowd flow estimation even in a large-scale facility such as an arena with a capacity of thousands of people.

[0104] In addition, the component providing unit 122 provides a slider component (an example of the batch setting means) that can batch-set common parameters among the components displayed on the display unit 17.

[0105] As a result, the crowd flow estimation system 1 can save the labor required when inputting parameters for a large number of locations. Therefore, the crowd flow estimation system 1 can easily perform crowd flow estimation even in a large-scale facility such as an arena with a capacity of thousands of people.

[0106] In addition, the crowd flow estimation system 1 includes a result visualization unit 125 (an example of the estimation result output unit) that associates the crowd flow estimation result by the crowd flow simulation tool 14 with the locations within the facility on the facility model and displays it on the display unit 17.

[0107] As a result, the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 can visualize the pedestrian flow estimation results in association with the points within the facility on the facility model and display them in an easy-to-understand manner.

[0108] For example, when the result visualization unit 125 displays the estimated value of the number of people staying as the pedestrian flow estimation result in association with the points within the facility on the facility model on the display unit 17, it arranges an object of a number corresponding to the estimated value of the number of people staying at the points within the facility.

[0109] As a result, the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 can enable the user (for example, the designer) to visually and easily grasp the number of people staying, because it arranges not only the estimated value of the number of people staying but also the objects corresponding to the number of people staying.

[0110] In addition, when the result visualization unit 125 displays an object of a number corresponding to the estimated value of the number of people staying in association with the points within the facility on the facility model on the display unit 17, it arranges the objects at the set service level (an example of density).

[0111] As a result, the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 can evaluate the validity of the estimated result of the number of people staying (whether the level of stay is problematic) by changing the service level.

[0112] For example, the object of a number corresponding to the estimated value of the number of people staying is a human-shaped object.

[0113] As a result, the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 can enable the user (for example, the designer) to visually and easily grasp the number of people staying, because it arranges not only the estimated value of the number of people staying but also the human-shaped objects corresponding to the number of people staying.

[0114] In addition, when the result visualization unit 125 displays an object of a number corresponding to the estimated value of the number of people staying in association with the points within the facility on the facility model on the display unit 17, it changes the viewpoint of the 3D view display (three-dimensional display).

[0115] As a result, when the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 arranges and displays humanoid objects corresponding to the number of people staying, for example, it can be displayed at eye level, so that the user (for example, the designer) can grasp the number of people staying with a sense of presence.

[0116] In addition, the component providing unit 122 provides a plurality of setting components (an example of a plurality of setting means) capable of setting a plurality of types of values for one parameter. Then, when a plurality of types of settings are made for one parameter, the input data generation unit 123 generates input data (input files) corresponding to each setting, and causes the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 to perform pedestrian flow estimation in the facility for all the settings.

[0117] As a result, since the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 can set a plurality of conditions at once and input them to the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14, it can perform pedestrian flow estimation under many conditions at once, and can search for an optimal solution from the comprehensively shown pedestrian flow estimation results. For example, conventionally, when performing a pedestrian flow simulation for a facility such as an arena on the scale of thousands of people, an external simulation specialist (such as a consultant) was entrusted with the study and evaluation, and proposals that meet the client's requirements and design goals were narrowed down from about 10 to 20 patterns over several months. However, in the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 according to the present embodiment, since a plurality of conditions can be set at once, it is possible to perform, for example, about 10,000 patterns of pedestrian flow simulation in one day.

[0118] In addition, among the plurality of parameters, there is a parameter for specifying the given conditions when performing pedestrian flow estimation in the facility. Further, at least some of the plurality of parameters are associated with the parameter for specifying the given conditions. The component providing unit 122 sets default values (initial values) of the parameters associated with the parameter for specifying the given conditions according to the given conditions when performing pedestrian flow estimation in the facility.

[0119] As a result, the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 enables easy initial settings for performing pedestrian flow simulations even for users who are not simulation experts, and can relatively easily estimate the pedestrian flow.

[0120] In addition, the pedestrian flow estimation device 10 according to the present embodiment uses a pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 (an example of a pedestrian flow estimation tool) that estimates the pedestrian flow in a facility based on input data (input file) based on a directed graph representing traffic lines by connecting a plurality of points in the facility in the direction of pedestrian flow and setting information of a plurality of parameters related to the pedestrian flow at each point in the facility. For example, the pedestrian flow estimation device 10 includes at least a facility data acquisition unit 121 (an example of a data acquisition unit), a component providing unit 122, and an input data generation unit 123. The facility data acquisition unit 121 acquires facility data including a facility model (a three-dimensional model of the facility) and point data indicating a plurality of points in the facility in the facility model. The component providing unit 122 generates components for each of a plurality of points in the facility, which enable setting of at least some of the plurality of parameters by user operation, and displays each generated component for each point on the display unit 17. The input data generation unit 123 generates input data (input file) to be input to the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 based on the setting information of the parameters set based on the user operations on the components displayed on the display unit 17 and the facility data acquired by the facility data acquisition unit 121.

[0121] As a result, the pedestrian flow estimation device 10 generates input data (input file) to be input to the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 by inputting a plurality of parameters related to the pedestrian flow at each point in the facility from the components displayed on the window screen based on the three-dimensional model of the facility. Therefore, for example, even without relying on external simulation specialists (such as consultants), a facility designer can relatively easily estimate the pedestrian flow at the initial stage of design consideration.

[0122] In addition, in the pedestrian flow estimation method in the pedestrian flow estimation system 1 according to the present embodiment, a pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 (an example of a pedestrian flow estimation unit) performs pedestrian flow estimation in the facility based on input data (input file) based on a directed graph representing a flow line by connecting a plurality of points in the facility in the direction in which people flow and setting information of a plurality of parameters related to the pedestrian flow at each point in the facility; a facility model generation unit 11 generates a facility model (a three-dimensional model of the facility); a facility data acquisition unit 121 (an example of a data acquisition unit) acquires facility data including the facility model generated by the facility model generation unit 11 and point data indicating a plurality of points in the facility in the facility model; a component providing unit 122 generates a component for each of a plurality of points in the facility, the setting of at least some of the plurality of parameters being settable by a user operation, and displays each component generated for each point on a display unit 17; and an input data generation unit 123 generates input data (input file) to be input to the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 based on the setting information of the parameters set based on the user operation on each component displayed on the display unit 17 and the facility data acquired by the facility data acquisition unit 121.

[0123] As a result, in the pedestrian flow estimation method in the pedestrian flow estimation system 1, based on the three-dimensional model of the facility, by inputting a plurality of parameters related to the pedestrian flow at each point in the facility from components displayed on the window screen, input data (input file) to be input to the pedestrian flow simulation tool 14 is generated. Therefore, for example, a facility designer can relatively easily perform pedestrian flow estimation in the initial stage of design consideration without relying on an external professional in simulation (such as a consultant).

[0124] In addition, the program according to the present embodiment functions as a computer as a people flow estimation device 10 that uses a people flow simulation tool 14 (an example of a people flow estimation tool) for estimating the people flow in a facility based on input data (input file) based on a directed graph representing a flow line by connecting a plurality of points in the facility in the direction in which people flow and setting information of a plurality of parameters related to the people flow at each point in the facility. The computer includes a facility data acquisition unit 121 (an example of a data acquisition unit) that acquires facility data including a facility model (a three-dimensional model of the facility) and point data indicating a plurality of points in the facility in the facility model, and for each of a plurality of points in the facility, generates a component in which settings of at least some of the plurality of parameters can be set by a user operation, and causes the display unit 17 to display each component generated for each point, and an input data generation unit 123 that generates input data (input file) to be input to the people flow simulation tool 14 based on the setting information of the parameters set based on the user operation on each component displayed on the display unit 17 and the facility data acquired by the facility data acquisition unit 121.

[0125] Accordingly, the program according to the present embodiment generates input data (input file) to be input to the people flow simulation tool 14 by inputting a plurality of parameters related to the people flow at each point in the facility from the components displayed on the window screen based on the three-dimensional model of the facility. Therefore, for example, a facility designer can relatively easily perform people flow estimation in the initial stage of design without relying on an external simulation specialist (such as a consultant).

[0126] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and designs and the like within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention are also included.

[0127] For example, in the above embodiment, an arena is described as an example of a facility for performing people flow estimation. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and can be applied to any facility.

[0128] In addition, when arranging objects in a number corresponding to the estimated number of occupants, an example of arranging humanoid objects was shown. However, the objects are not limited to humanoid shapes and can be objects of any shape.

[0129] Also, the forms and parameter contents of the various components described in the above embodiments are merely examples and are not limited thereto.

[0130] Note that the above-described pedestrian flow estimation device 10 has a computer system inside. Then, a program for realizing the functions of each configuration provided in the above-described pedestrian flow estimation device 10 is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on this recording medium is read into the computer system and executed, whereby the processing in each configuration provided in the above-described pedestrian flow estimation device 10 may be performed. Here, "reading and executing the program recorded on the recording medium into the computer system" includes installing the program in the computer system. The "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. Further, the "computer system" may include a plurality of computer devices connected via a network including a communication line such as the Internet, WAN, LAN, or dedicated line. Also, the "computer-readable recording medium" refers to a portable medium such as a flexible disk, magneto-optical disk, ROM, CD-ROM, or a storage device such as a hard disk built into the computer system. Thus, the recording medium storing the program may be a non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM.

[0131] In addition, the recording medium includes an internal or external recording medium that can be accessed from a distribution server for distributing the program. Note that the program may be divided into a plurality of parts, downloaded at different timings, and then combined by each component included in the crowd flow estimation device 10, or the distribution servers that distribute each of the divided programs may be different. Further, the "computer-readable recording medium" includes those that hold a program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that becomes a server or a client when the program is transmitted via a network. Also, the above program may be for realizing a part of the functions described above. Further, it may be a so-called difference file (difference program) that can realize the above-described functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

[0132] In addition, a part or all of each function included in the crowd flow estimation device 10 in the above-described embodiment may be realized as an integrated circuit such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration). Each function may be made into a processor individually, or a part or all of them may be integrated and made into a processor. Also, the method of integrating into an integrated circuit is not limited to LSI and may be realized by a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. Further, when a technology for integrating into an integrated circuit that replaces LSI appears due to the progress of semiconductor technology, an integrated circuit using the technology may be used.

[0133] There are 17 international goals adopted at the United Nations Summit in September 2015, namely the "Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)". The crowd flow estimation system, crowd flow estimation device, crowd flow estimation method, and program according to the present embodiment can contribute to the achievement of, for example, the goal of "9. Build the foundation for industry and technological innovation" among these 17 SDG goals.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0134] 1 Pedestrian flow estimation system, 10 Pedestrian flow estimation device, 11 Facility model generation unit, 12 Pedestrian flow analysis support unit, 13 Memory unit, 14 Pedestrian flow simulation tool, 17 Display unit, 121 Facility data acquisition unit, 122 Component providing unit, 123 Input data generation unit, 124 Output data acquisition unit, 125 Result visualization unit, 131 Facility data storage unit, 132 Input file storage unit, 133 Output file storage unit, 110 CPU, 120 RAM, 130 ROM, 140 Storage device, 150 Communication unit, 160 Input unit, 170 Output unit

Claims

1. A flow estimation unit that estimates the flow of people in the facility based on input data based on a directed graph representing a flow line connecting a plurality of points in the facility in the direction in which people flow and setting information of a plurality of parameters related to the flow of people at each point in the facility; A facility model generation unit that generates a three-dimensional model of the facility; A data acquisition unit that acquires facility data including the three-dimensional model of the facility generated by the facility model generation unit and point data indicating a plurality of points in the facility in the three-dimensional model; A component providing unit that generates, for each of a plurality of points in the facility, a component in which settings of at least some of the plurality of parameters can be set by a user operation, and causes the display unit to display each component generated for each point; An input data generation unit that generates the input data to be input to the flow estimation unit based on the setting information of the parameters set based on the user operation on each component displayed on the display unit and the facility data acquired by the data acquisition unit; A flow estimation system comprising:

2. The input data generation unit: When the user performs an operation of connecting each component displayed on the display unit, a path connecting the points of the connected components is set as a path along which people move in the facility, and the set path is included in the input data; The flow estimation system according to claim 1.

3. The component displayed on the display unit can be operated by the user to be duplicated, The duplicated component can be used as a component at other points, The flow estimation system according to claim 1.

4. The component providing unit: Provides a batch setting means for batch setting common parameters among the components displayed on the display unit; The flow estimation system according to claim 1.

5. An estimated result output unit that displays the result of the flow estimation by the flow estimation unit in association with the points in the facility on the three-dimensional model of the facility on the display unit; Comprising: The flow estimation system according to claim 1.

6. The estimated result output unit: When displaying an estimated value of the number of people staying as a result of the flow estimation in association with the points in the facility on the three-dimensional model of the facility on the display unit, arranges an object corresponding to the estimated value of the number of people staying at the points in the facility; The pedestrian flow estimation system according to claim 5.

7. The estimated result output unit When displaying, on the display unit, an object of a number corresponding to the estimated value of the number of people staying in association with a point within the facility on the three-dimensional model of the facility, arranges the objects at a set density. The pedestrian flow estimation system according to claim 6.

8. The object is a human-shaped object. The pedestrian flow estimation system according to claim 6.

9. The estimated result output unit When displaying, on the display unit, an object of a number corresponding to the estimated value of the number of people staying in association with a point within the facility on the three-dimensional model of the facility, changes the viewpoint of the three-dimensional display. The pedestrian flow estimation system according to claim 8.

10. The component providing unit Provides a plurality of setting means capable of setting a plurality of types of values for one parameter. The input data generation unit When a plurality of types of settings are made for one parameter, generates the input data corresponding to each setting, and causes the pedestrian flow estimation unit to perform pedestrian flow estimation within the facility for all the settings. The pedestrian flow estimation system according to claim 1.

11. Among the plurality of parameters, there is included a parameter for designating given conditions when performing pedestrian flow estimation within the facility. At least some of the plurality of parameters are associated with the parameter for designating the given conditions. The component providing unit Sets an initial value of a parameter associated with the parameter for designating the given conditions according to the given conditions when performing pedestrian flow estimation within the facility. The pedestrian flow estimation system according to claim 1.

12. A pedestrian flow estimation device using a pedestrian flow estimation tool that performs pedestrian flow estimation within the facility based on input data based on a directed graph representing a flow line by connecting a plurality of points within the facility in the direction in which people flow and setting information of a plurality of parameters related to the pedestrian flow at each point within the facility, A data acquisition unit that acquires facility data including the three-dimensional model of the facility and point data indicating a plurality of points within the facility in the three-dimensional model. A component providing unit that generates, for each of a plurality of points within the facility, a component in which at least some of the plurality of parameters can be set by a user operation, and displays each component generated for each point on a display unit. An input data generation unit that generates the input data to be input to the crowd flow estimation tool based on the setting information of the parameters set based on the user's operations on each component displayed on the display unit and the facility data acquired by the data acquisition unit; A crowd flow estimation device comprising the same.

13. A crowd flow estimation method in a crowd flow estimation system, comprising: A step in which a crowd flow estimation unit estimates the crowd flow in the facility based on input data based on a directed graph representing a flow line by connecting a plurality of points in the facility in the direction in which people flow and setting information of a plurality of parameters related to the crowd flow at each point in the facility; A step in which a facility model generation unit generates a three-dimensional model of the facility; A step in which a data acquisition unit acquires facility data including the three-dimensional model of the facility generated by the facility model generation unit and point data indicating a plurality of points in the facility in the three-dimensional model; A step in which a component providing unit generates a component for each of a plurality of points in the facility, the setting of at least some of the plurality of parameters being configurable by a user operation, and displays each component generated for each point on a display unit; A step in which an input data generation unit generates the input data to be input to the crowd flow estimation unit based on the setting information of the parameters set based on the user's operations on each component displayed on the display unit and the facility data acquired by the data acquisition unit; A crowd flow estimation method including the above.

14. A computer as a crowd flow estimation device that uses a crowd flow estimation tool that estimates the crowd flow in the facility based on input data based on a directed graph representing a flow line by connecting a plurality of points in the facility in the direction in which people flow and setting information of a plurality of parameters related to the crowd flow at each point in the facility, A data acquisition unit that acquires facility data including the three-dimensional model of the facility and point data indicating a plurality of points in the facility in the three-dimensional model; A component providing unit that generates a component for each of a plurality of points in the facility, the setting of at least some of the plurality of parameters being configurable by a user operation, and displays each component generated for each point on a display unit; An input data generation unit that generates the input data to be input to the crowd flow estimation tool based on the setting information of the parameters set based on the user's operations on each component displayed on the display unit and the facility data acquired by the data acquisition unit. A program that functions as.

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