Phase coexistence in congested states of pedestrian dynamics

Abstract

Experimental results for congested pedestrian traffic are presented. For data analysis we apply a method providing measurements on an individual scale. The resulting velocity-density relation shows a coexistence of moving and stopping states revealing the complex structure of pedestrian fundamental diagrams and supporting new insights into the characteristics of pedestrian congestions. Furthermore we introduce a model similar to event driven approaches. The velocity-density relation as well as the phase separation is reproduced. Variation of the parameter distribution indicates that the diversity of pedestrians is crucial for phase separation.