With the development of the world economy and continued population growth, research into pedestrian dynamics is becoming ever more critical. In recent years, pedestrian flows have attracted the attention of many scholars in the field of statistical physics, computer science, traffic engineering, behavioral science, and safety science, among others. However, in the field of pedestrian dynamics, many issues remain to be explored and resolved, such as safety management and efficiency management for the movement of pedestrian groups. The guest editors would like to initiate discussions on issues concerning the dynamics of pedestrian groups in this special issue. Pedestrian groups include, but are not limited to, high-density pedestrian groups, child-adult mixed pedestrian groups, pedestrian groups moving in specific but representative scenarios (e.g., high-rise buildings, transportation stations), and pedestrian groups moving in connected environments and/or different traffic conditions.
The aim of this special issue is to explore methodological and technological advancements in understanding and managing problems related to pedestrian group dynamics. Thus, the guest editors encourage submissions of original research articles with topics including, but not limited to, the following:
- Experimental study of “special” pedestrian groups(e.g., children, people with disabilities) and comparison of experimental data with current models (academic or commercial software);
- Modeling and simulation of “special” pedestrian groups;
- New technology for detection and recognition of pedestrian groups;
- New technology for pedestrian detection and group recognition, in line with privacy concerns;
- Research on pedestrian group movement in connected environments and/or different traffic conditions;
Research related to pedestrian groups based on kinematics and psychology.
