Evaluation of a lift control algorithm for the emergency evacuation of a tall building

Abstract

This dissertation considers the hypothesis that a suitably designed lift system can be used for the automatic evacuation of tall buildings. It will identify the key features that should be provided to ensure that lifts are controlled efficiently during this task and so ensure that the evacuation time is reduced to a practical minimum. An algorithm is described which has been designed in line with these principles and its performance is evaluated by simulation. The performance is then assessed against a standard control algorithm and also against a theoretical best possible solution. The initial results indicate that a dedicated evacuation algorithm can provide significant benefits above a more generalised control strategy for this particular traffic situation and that it is less susceptible to variations in passenger arrival patterns.