Hierarchical Structure of the Mass and Group-Level Behaviors in Urban Rail Transfer Stations

Abstract

In Urban Rail Transit (URT) stations, safety problems and delays occur, because of the complicated passenger organization processes, space and facility layouts, mass composition and movement. This paper analyzed the structure of the mass as well as the features and behaviors of passenger groups in stations. First, we explored the passenger organization processes, the hierarchical structure of the space, the passenger service network and the hierarchical of the mass. Second, we showed a hierarchical model of the mass, and studied both individuals and groups in their features, behaviors and impact on safety and efficiencies of the crowd. Third, we built a process model to demonstrate mass behaviors. Last, we developed a simulation framework of URT station, based on the models and taking into considerations of passenger organization, train operation and space layout.