Scaling laws in granular flow and pedestrian flow

Shumiao Chen, Fernando Alonso-Marroquin*, Jonathan Busch, Rauól Cruz Hidalgo, Charmila Sathianandan, Aólvaro Ramiórez-Goómez, Peter Mora

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

We use particle-based simulations to examine the flow of particles through an exit. Simulations involve both gravity-driven particles (representing granular material) and velocity-driven particles (mimicking pedestrian dynamics). Contact forces between particles include elastic, viscous, and frictional forces; and simulations use bunker geometry. Power laws are observed in the relation between flow rate and exit width. Simulations of granular flow showed that the power law has little dependence on the coefficient of friction. Polydisperse granular systems produced higher flow rates than those produced by monodisperse ones. We extend the particle model to include the main features of pedestrian dynamics: thoracic shape, shoulder rotation, and desired velocity oriented towards the exit. Higher desired velocity resulted in higher flow rate. Granular simulations always give higher flow rate than pedestrian simulations, despite the values of aspect ratio of the particles. In terms of force distribution, pedestrians and granulates share similar properties with the non-democratic distribution of forces that poses high risks of injuries in a bottleneck situation.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationPowders and Grains 2013 - Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Micromechanics of Granular Media
Pages157-160
Number of pages4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2013
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameAIP Conference Proceedings
Volume1542
ISSN (Print)0094-243X
ISSN (Electronic)1551-7616

Keywords

  • Pedestrian flow
  • granular flow

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Physics and Astronomy

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