Agent-based model that mimics drunken crowds

While agent-based models are used for many applications, I just came across an article in New Scientist and found quite interesting. A team of researchers from the University of Cardiff have used agents to mimic the movements of drunken crowds. Specifically how the staggering gait and loss of balance associated with being drunk would affect the behaviour of crowds be it a mix of sober, drunk or somewhere in-between.

The model was based on primary data as the team made 24 visits to Cardiff city centre between 11pm and 3am on Friday and Saturday nights, breathalysing people and monitoring their gait and then factoring this information into their simulation.

Find out more:

• The New Scientist Article
• Moore, S. C., Flajšlik, M., Rosin, P. L. & Marshall, D. (in press). A particle model of crowd behavior: Exploring the relationship between alcohol, crowd dynamics and violence. Aggression and Violent Behavior.