Simulation of Air flow, Smoke Dispersion and Evacuation of the Monument Metro Station based on Subway Climatology

Abstract

This research is creating a working laboratory in Newcastle Monument metro station to understand the details of how the over ground climate influences the internal airflow and the impact this has on evacuation strategies. It is intended to link weather data with the background air flow in the station and identify the main driving forces for the dispersion of smoke or toxic agents throughout the station. The subway air flow will be evaluated and then interfaced with a VR simulation of the station and adjoining tunnels to produce a visual diagnostic and predictive tool. This data, with existing pedestrian movement modelling, will assist in identifying the correct evacuation procedures to minimise the exposure time of individuals to a smoke filled environment. The final outcome of this work will be a decision making process with regard to the initiation of effective measures to minimize the impact of fire within a subway that can be used at the initial design period to evaluate proposed evacuation routes.