Virtual Planning and Support for Large-Scale Events

In this paper we present a modular simulation toolkit designed to assist in the planning and management of large-scale outdoor events like festivals or Christmas markets. The toolkit integrates four key modules: 3D scene reconstruction, visibility computation, agent-based modeling (ABM) of pedestrian flows, and smart video analysis. Data for the framework are obtained from various sources, including drone LiDAR scans, drone videos, ground photos, and fixed video cameras. Our methodology follows a structured process chain: starting with 3D reconstruction to create a detailed virtual environment, followed by visibility computation to assess the perceptibility of information. The ABM module simulates the behavior of event participants, allowing for dynamic interaction of individual agents with and within the environment in different scenarios. Finally, simulation results are validated using insights from smart video analysis, which delivers person counts and density estimates. This ensures the accuracy and reliability of the outcomes. We demonstrate the use and flexibility of our modular simulation toolkit with its application to Juicy Beats, a popular electronic music festival held annually in Germany.