Using space syntax and information visualization for spatial behavior analysis and simulation

This study used space syntax to discuss user movement dynamics and crowded hot spots in a commercial area. Moreover, it developed personas according to its onsite observations, visualized user movement data, and performed a deep-learning simulation using the generative adversarial network (GAN) to simulate user movement in an urban commercial area as well as the influences such move might engender. From a pedestrian perspective, this study examined the crowd behavior in a commercial area, conducted an onsite observation of people's spatial behaviors, and simulated user movement through data-science-driven approaches. Through the analysis process, we determined the spatial differences among various roads and districts in the commercial area, and according to the user movement simulation, we identified key factors that influence pedestrian spatial behaviors and pedestrian accessibility. Moreover, we used the deformed wheel theory to investigate the spatial structure of the commercial area and the synergetic relationship between the space and pedestrians; deformed wheel theory presents the user flow differences in various places and the complexity of road distribution, thereby enabling relevant parties to develop design plans that integrate space and service provision in commercial areas. This research contributes to the interdisciplinary study of spatial behavior analysis and simulation with machine learning applications. © 2018 The Science and Information (SAI) Organization Limited.