A multi-layer social force approach to model interactions in shared spaces using collision prediction

In shared space environments the movements of road users is not regulated by traffic rules, but is the result of spontaneous interaction between traffic users, who negotiate the priority according to social rules such as eye contact or courtesy behavior. However, appropriate micro simulation tools, which can reproduce the operation of shared spaces, are currently lacking. In this paper, a multi-layer approach for representing the movement of road users and their interaction, based on the Social Force Model, is developed. In a free-flow layer a realistic path is calculated for each user towards his destination, while a conflict layer is used for detecting possible conflict situations and computing an appropriate reaction. The novelty of this work in the field of shared space modeling is in the implementation of group dynamics and a SFM based approach for cyclists. The presented approach is qualitatively tested in different traffic situations involving cyclists, pedestrians and pedestrian groups, and shows realistic behavior. (C) 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.